UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA 
 AT LOS ANGELES
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 TWELFTH REPORT, APPENDIX, PART I. 
 
 THE 
 
 MANUSCRIPTS 
 
 OP THE 
 
 EARL COWPER, K.G., 
 
 PRESERVED AT 
 
 MELBOURNE HALL, DERBYSHIRE. 
 
 VOL. I. 
 
 PrcScnte* ta botl) Vla\isZt& of parliament tm Command at &cr JHajerftg. 
 
 LONDON: 
 
 PRINTED FOR HER MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE, 
 BY EYRE AND SPOTTISWOODB, 
 
 PRINTERS TO THE QUEEN'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY. 
 
 And to be purchased, either directly or through any Bookseller, from 
 
 BYRE and SPOTTISWOODE, East Harding Street, Fleet Street, E.C., ami 
 
 32, Abingdon Street, Westminster, S.W. ; or 
 
 ADAM and CHARLES BLACK, 6, North Bridge, Edinburgh ; or 
 
 HODGES, FIGGIS, & Co., 104. Grafton Street, Dublin. 
 
 1888. 
 [C 5472.] Price 2s. Id.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 TWELFTH REPORT, APPENDIX, PART I. 
 
 THE 
 
 MANUSCRIPTS 
 
 OF THE 
 
 EARL COWPER, KG, 
 
 l'KKSKKVEI) AT 
 
 MELBOURNE HALL, DERBYSHIRE. 
 
 VOL. I. 
 ^regentctt ta ion) %0ujfcs> of |Javltamnit 6y CDiumarrtf of f&rr iHajrsSty 
 
 LONDON: 
 
 PRINTED FOR HER MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE, 
 
 BY EYRE AND SPOTTISWOODE, 
 
 PRINTERS TO THE QUEEN'S .MOST EXCETI-KNT MAJESTY. 
 
 And to be purchased, either directly or through any Bookseller, from 
 
 EYRE and SPOTTISWOODE, East Harding Street. Fleet Sikket, E.C.; and 
 
 32, Abingdon Street, Westminster, SAW ; or 
 
 ADAM and CHARLES BLACK, 0, North Buidge, Edinburgh, or 
 
 HODGES, FIGGIS, & Co., 101, Graitox Street, Dublin. 
 
 1888. 
 [C. 5472-1 Price 2s. 1<L
 
 * 
 
 
 N\2C8 
 
 INTRODUCTION. 
 
 The manuscripts at Melbourne Hall were first brought under 
 
 the notice of the Commissioners by Mr. William Dashwood 
 
 Fane, who has resided at the Hall for many years, and who has 
 
 devoted a great portion of his leisure time to an examination of 
 
 the muniments there, and to making abstracts of them. Mr. 
 
 Fane most generously placed the results of his labours at the 
 
 9 disposal of the Commissioners, who have, with the consent of 
 
 ^ Earl Cowper, set them forth in the following pages, with such 
 
 * slight alterations and omissions as seemed necessary to bring the 
 
 report into a form symmetrica] with others of a like character 
 
 issued under their authority. 
 
 The most fitting introduction to the description of this vast 
 collection of documents will be a short account of the Secretary 
 of State, Sir John Coke, who was mainly the cause of their 
 being brought together ; the most important events in his life 
 can be illustrated by the papers themselves. 
 
 It is stated in a note written by Sir John Hartopp between 
 1708 and 1722, on the authority of a memorandum of his uncle 
 Sir John Coke the younger, that his grandfather, the Secretary 
 of State, was born in London on the 5th of March 1562-3, and 
 died 5th September 1644. 
 
 He was the second son of Richard Coke of Trusley (seven 
 miles west of Derby), where their ancestors had been settled 
 for four generations as lords of the manor. His mother was 
 Mary Sacheverell, the heiress of Kirkby Old Hall, in Kirkby 
 in Ashfield, Notts. The estates of Trusley and Kirkby are 
 still in the possession of a branch of the Coke family descended 
 from Sir Francis Coke, Knight, the elder brother of the Secre- 
 tary, and also, by an intermarriage, from his younger brother, 
 Doctor George Coke, Bishop of Bristol and afterwards of 
 Hereford. 
 
 In the records of Trinity College, Cambridge, a first payment 
 is made to John Coke as a Foundation Scholar for the quarter 
 ending midsummer 1580. In 1582, he is called " D s - Coke," 
 showing he was then B.A. On October 2, 1583, is the entry 
 "Johannes Coke, minor socius juratus " : on April 4, 1584, 
 
 U 24963 a 2 
 
 212669
 
 IV 
 
 " Johannes Coke, major socius juratus," from which it appears 
 that he was M.A. at the latter date. His name appears regularly 
 on the Bursar's book of Trinity College, as receiving his Fellow's 
 dividend up to and including Michaelmas, 1591. Then he 
 disappears : being a layman his fellowship would naturally 
 terminate. He does not appear to have held ar^ College office, 
 but he is stated in Fuller's Worthies to have been Professor of 
 Rhetoric at Cambridge. 
 
 In the draft of a letter (which he did not send) to " Lord 
 Marquis Buckingham " on the 12th October, 1622, Coke writes 
 of himself: 
 
 " Howsoever I am valued my descent is not base. I was not 
 bred in servile or illiberal trades, the University was my nurse, 
 I have travelled many countries, where I saw peace and war. 
 I am acquainted with books, and no stranger to the Courts and 
 affairs of the world. And though those know who know me 
 best that I ever affected a private course of life, yet I never 
 refused any service whatsoever to give God, my prince and 
 my country a good account of my time ; nor ever made the 
 public a step to private ends, nor set profit or honour in the 
 first place of my heart, as the common fashion is." 
 
 As there are in the Melbourne muniment room several 
 papers of the date 1588, addressed to William Cecil, Lord 
 Burghley, as Lord Treasurer, and as Lord Lieutenant of 
 Lincolnshire, it may be that John Coke was attached to him or 
 to his household in some capacity. 
 
 In 1591 he held office in the Navy Department at Deptford. 
 
 In 1594, and two succeeding years, he was on the Continent of 
 Europe, as appears by letters addressed to him at Ratisbon, at 
 Sienna, and at Orleans ; at that time he was in correspondence 
 with Isaac Casaubon. 
 
 In ]597, John Coke had taken up his abode at Deptford 
 with Fulke Grevyl, afterwards Lord Brooke, who was Treasurer 
 of the Navy. The letters that passed between them when apart 
 are numerous, and manifest Grevyl 's affection for him, and 
 confidence in his management of certain suits at Court and 
 in law. Some of the letters relate to literary works of 
 Grevyl, whose Latin compositions were submitted to Coke for 
 correction. 
 
 In 1604, Coke purchased a small property called Hall 
 Court, in the parish of Much Marcle, in Herefordshire ; and in 
 1605 he married Mary Powell, daughter of John Powell, of
 
 Preston, an adjoining village, who was an agent of Sir Fulke 
 Grevyl in his office of Secretary to the Council for Wales. He 
 then settled at Hall Court for several years ; his household 
 and farming books for that period are now at Melbourne. 
 
 During those years he made periodical journeys to London 
 and into Warwickshire to visit Sir Fulke Grevy], and to 
 supervise the accounts of his friend's estates. 
 
 In 1618, a Commission was appointed to enquire into the 
 state of the Navy, of which Coke was (in consequence of 
 his previous special knowledge of that department, and his 
 independence, diligence, and earnestness) a very efficient member. 
 When George Villier3, Marquis of Buckingham, became Lord 
 High Admiral, Coke was, at his instance, appointed a Com- 
 missioner of the Navy, but without any fixed salary. In 
 November 1621, King James granted to "John Coke, Esquire, 
 for his services in several marine causes, and for the office of 
 Ordnance which he had long attended far remote from his 
 family and to his great charge," certain allowances amounting to 
 300?. per annum, to be paid by the Treasurer of the Navy. 
 In November 1622, Coke became one of the Masters of Requests ; 
 in September 1624 he was knighted; and in September 1625 
 he was appointed one of the two Principal Secretaries of State, 
 in succession to Sir Albert Moreton, deceased, and became a 
 Privy Councillor. He continued to be a Principal Commissioner 
 for the Navy. In the autumn of 1625, he was employed at 
 Plymouth in fitting out the expedition to Cadiz under the 
 Earl of Essex, and in the summer of 1628 at Portsmouth 
 in fitting out the second expedition which the Duke of Bucking- 
 ham was to have led to Rochelle. He attended Charles I. as 
 Secretary of State in the two progresses into Scotland in 
 1633 and 1639. 
 
 He sat in the Parliaments of January 1620-1 for Warwick 
 borough, of February 1623-4, and May 1625, for St. Germans, 
 and of February 1625-6, and March 1627-8, for Cambridge 
 University. 
 
 In April 1624, Sir John Coke's first wife, Mary Powell, died : 
 by her ho had three sons and three daughters. In November 
 1624, he married Joan, daughter of Sir John Lee, Knight, and 
 widow of Alderman Gore of the City of London : by her he had 
 no issue. 
 
 In 1628 Sir John Coke took a lease for three lives of the 
 rectory house, glebe, and tithes of Melbourne in Derbyshire,
 
 VI 
 
 which, with the patronage of the vicarage, had been annexed to 
 the Bishopric of Carlisle since the reign of Henry II., and about 
 the same time he sold his Herefordshire property to Dr. Fell of 
 Christchurch, Oxford. 
 
 While he was Secretary of State, Sir John Coke resided chiefly 
 at Tottenham High Cross. On his resignation of that office at 
 the end of 1639, he retired to Melbourne, where his elder son 
 had been living since 1634. There he remained till 1644, when 
 the disturbed state of the Midland Counties, and the quartering 
 of Parliamentary soldiers in his house, caused him to return 
 to Tottenham, where he died and was buried in September 
 1644. 
 
 His eldest son, Joseph, died when an undergraduate of 
 Trinity College, Cambridge. Of the two other sons, both of 
 Trinity College, John the elder was knighted in July 1633 ; 
 he married Elizabeth, daughter of Timothy Pusey, of Selston, 
 Notts, and widow of William Willoughby, eldest son of Sir 
 Henry Willoughby of Kisley, Notts. He had no issue. In the 
 Long Parliament (Nov. 1640) he was one of the members for 
 Derbyshire, till his death in 1650. He subscribed the Solemn 
 League and Covenant in September 1643, and was one of the 
 nine Commissioners appointed in January 1647-8 to have charge 
 of the King. 
 
 Thomas Coke, the younger son, was a barrister of Gray's 
 Inn. He was elected member for Leicester in March 1640, and 
 again in November 1640, but in January 1644-5 he was voted 
 incapable of sitting. In 1648 he was fined 500Z., and in 1650, 
 after he had succeeded to his brother, 2,200?. "for his delinquency 
 to the Commonwealth." During a part of the latter year he was 
 imprisoned in the Tower by order of the House. He married 
 Mary Pope, and left an only child John Coke, who was the 
 father of the Right Honourable Thomas Coke, Vice-Chamberlain 
 during twenty years to Queen Anne and King George I. 
 The Vice-Chamberlain's daughter Charlotte Coke married Sir 
 Matthew Lamb, and was mother of the first Viscount Melbourne 
 and grandmother of the second Viscount (William, First Lord 
 of the Treasury) and the third and last Viscount (Frederick 
 previously Lord Beauvale), and also of Emily Lamb, married 
 first to the fifth Earl Cowper, and afterwards to the last 
 Viscount Palmerston. From that lady the Melbourne estate 
 with the papers preserved there have descended to the present 
 Earl Cowper, her grandson. The building in which the papers
 
 Vll 
 
 are kept was originally the dovecot of the Rectory of 
 Melbourne belonging to the Bishops of Carlisle, and was 
 adapted to its present purpose by Vice-Chamberlain Coke 
 in 1710. The rectorial estate, previously held by the Coke 
 family as leasehold, was converted into freehold in favour of 
 Vice-Chamberlain Coke, by an arrangement with the then 
 Bishop of Carlisle, confirmed by an Act of Parliament of 1704. 
 
 It remains to be observed that the extracts now published 
 follow the words of the writers as far as possible, although 
 many passages which merely express gratitude or admiration, 
 or are otherwise redundant or of no present interest, have been 
 omitted. 
 
 July 1888.
 
 THE MANUSCRIPTS OF THE COKE FAMILY, OF MEL- coke mss. 
 BOURNE, CO. DERBY, BELONGING TO THE EARL 
 COWPER, K.G., PRESERVED AT MELBOURNE HALL. 
 
 1551, August 9. Richmond. 
 
 The Lords considering how many and sundry ways the King's 
 Majesty hath travayled with his Highness Sister the Lady Mary to 
 have reduced her to conform in religion and divine service established 
 by his Majesty's laws and acts of Parliament, and considering also that 
 the long suffrance of her and her family to do as they have done 
 sithence the making of the said statute hath been, and yet is the occasion 
 of diversity of opinions, strife, and contradiction in this the realm, and 
 remembering withall how much the King's Majesty's honour might be 
 touched if this matter was not provided for, have with one accord 
 resolved that the head officers of the said Lady Mary's house shall be 
 sent for and charged that from henceforth they shall not permit nor suffer 
 any other divine service to be done or used within the said Lady Mary's 
 house than is set forth by the laws of the realm. And they shall also 
 further on his Majesty's behalf straitly charge and command all the said 
 Lady Mary's chaplains not to presume from thenceforth to say any mass 
 or other divine service than is appointed by the laws of the realm, and 
 likewise command the rest of her present servants not to presume to be 
 present or [to hear] any such mass, and upon pain of his Majesty's indig- 
 nation, and further to be punished according to the laws. It was also 
 thought good to the Lords at the return of those officers letters shall be 
 sent to the said Lady Mary from the King's Majesty by which his 
 pleasure shall be also signified [to her for] the observation of this order. 
 And because it appeared by letters from his Majesty's Ambassador 
 with the Emperor that the said Emperor hath required to have his Am- 
 bassador permitted to use in his house the mass and also divine service 
 here after the popish manner and refuseth expressly to suffer the King's 
 Majesty's Ambassadors to use in the[ir houses] or within his dominions 
 the communion tmd other divine service according to the laws of this 
 realm, their Lordships thinking that this inequality if it be suffered 
 should touch the King's Majesty in honour, have therefore agreed 
 eftsoons to write to the King's Majesty's Ambassador herein declaring 
 the unreasonableness of this answer, and that the King's Majesty can- 
 not permit the said Emperor's Ambassador to use their manner of 
 service unless the King's Majesty's Embassador may have the like 
 permission to use our service there. 
 
 (Signed) T. Cant. R. Ryche, Cane. W. Wilteshire J. Warwyk. 
 
 J. Bedford. Arundell. F. Shrewsbury. Edward Derby. F. 
 
 Huntyngdon. E. Clynton. Darcy. G. Cobham. William Paget. 
 
 T. Cheyne. 
 
 William Petre, Sec. John Gage. 
 Edward Montagu. R. Badlegh. Jo. Baker. 
 
 Present. 
 
 The Duke of Somerset. Therle of Huntingdon. 
 
 The Archbishop of Cant. L. Clynton L. Admiral!. 
 
 The L. Chauncellor. The L. Darcy. 
 
 The L. Tresaurar. The L. Cobham. 
 
 The L. Greatt M [aster]. The L. Paget. 
 
 The L. Privey Seall. M r Tresaurer. 
 
 Therle of Arundell. M r Comptroller. 
 
 Therle of Shrewsbury. The ISP of the Horse. 
 
 Therle of Darby. M r Vice Chamberlain. 
 
 U 24963. Wt. 9145. *
 
 2 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke msS. Secretary Petre. Sir Edward Montagu. 
 
 Sir John Gage. Sir John Baker. 
 
 Sir Ralph Badlegh. 
 
 19 Elizabeth. February 9. Offices of Mr. Foulke Grevyl in the 
 Marches of Wales. 
 
 The Queen granteth to P. Grevill, Esquire, by patent, (1) the office 
 of Secretary for her, her heirs and successors, for the dispatch and 
 treaty of all business appertaining as well in the principality of South 
 Wales and North Wales as also in the shires of Monmouth, Worcester, 
 Hereford, Shropshire, Gloucestershire, Cheshire, and Flintshire, and the 
 Marches of Wales, adjoining to the said shires, before all councillors and 
 commissioners whatsoever appointed by her or her heirs in the said 
 principality, shires, and marches ; (2) an annuity or pension of twenty 
 marks, together with all other fees, commodities, pre-eminences and 
 jurisdictions to the said office belonging, to have, hold, and exercise the 
 said office by himself, or his sufficient deputies, from the vacation thereof, 
 for term of life, in as large manner as Charles Fox, John Williams, Sir 
 John Preste, knight, Peter Newton, or John Buske, or any other, 
 enjoyed the same, without rendering account therefor. 
 
 By another patent, (1) the office of Clerk of the Council for 
 dispatch of matters appertaining in the same principality, counties, and 
 marches, without giving account of the same ; (2) the office of Clerk of 
 the Signet in the same principality, shires, and marches, both for the 
 term of his life ; (3) the making of all writing, sealing, and dispatching 
 of all writs, &c. which in any way concern any petition, &c. within the 
 said circuit before any councillor or commissioner appointed, or to be 
 appointed ; (4) all manner of fees, profits, pre-ennnencies and juris- 
 dictions due or accustomed to the said office of the Signet, all during 
 life without account. 
 
 1578, May. An estimatejfor equipping five of the Queen's ships to 
 the seas in warlike manner. 
 
 1584-5, January 25. W. Burghley, C. Howard, F. Kncllys, James 
 Scott, Chr. Hatton, H. Sydney, Lords of the Council, to the Lord 
 President of Wales. Concerning the Mayor of Hereford, who having been 
 committed for contempt, is required to make submission on his release 
 from prison. 
 
 1586. "Account of Spain," endorsed by Mr. Coke "Mr. Thurland." 
 It begins " The whole number of this secret view that was taken 
 
 1 125390 men," and gives the names of harbours with the number of 
 
 ships in each, &c, &c. 
 
 Also a paper of particulars of the nobility of Spain with their revenues, 
 
 in Spanish. 
 
 1586-7, March 1. Endorsed by John Coke, " Launces and light hors 
 charged in the 4 sessions within Lindesey, viz., Spitle, Castor, Horne- 
 castell, Lowth sessions. 
 
 The foure sessions of Lyndsey, how they are charged by my Lordes 
 precept unto the Justices, primo Marcii 1586." 
 
 "After my very harty commcndacions, I doo send unto your Lp. find 
 the rest hereunder written, the names of such as are tc furnish demy 
 launcefi and light horses, with their furniture, for Spittle Sessions in the 
 parts of Lyndsey, requiring you fourthwith to direct your precepts to 
 the hedd constables of that sessions that they shall give present sommous 
 and warnyng to all and every the said parties hereunder written, that they 
 faile not to appeare and make their musters and shewe of those horses 
 and furniture wherewith they are heere charged before me at the topp 
 of the hill neare the Cittie of Lincoln, uppon the Tuesday before Easter 
 clay next which shalbe the xxix ,h day of March by viij. of the clocke
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 3 
 
 in the fore noone of the same day, and they and every of them will 
 aunswere to the contrarie at their perills. And so J do bydd yee very 
 hartely farewell from Newarke, the first of March 1585." 
 
 Spittle Sessions. 
 
 Coke MS- 
 
 Gainsborough, 
 
 Mr. Fitz Williams of 
 
 Scampton. 
 Robert Grantham of 
 
 Dunham. 
 Hopkinson of Holme 
 Thomas Swynton of j 
 
 Swyuton. 
 
 
 
 
 Launces. 
 
 Light horses. 
 
 
 Sir Christopher Wray, ij 
 
 "j 
 
 
 knight, lord chief \ 
 
 
 
 justice of England. 
 
 
 
 John Mounson, esq. ij 
 
 ij 
 
 
 George S* Poole, esq. j 
 
 ij 
 
 More. 
 
 William Dalyson, esq. 
 
 
 
 u 
 
 
 Alexander Amcotes, esq. 
 
 
 
 ij 
 
 
 Philipp Tirwhitt, esq. 
 
 
 
 ij 
 
 Shewed not 1584. 
 
 Marmaduke Tirwhitt, 
 esq. 
 
 3 
 
 ij 
 
 Shelved not 1584. 
 
 Richard Topcliff, esq. 
 
 j 
 
 ij 
 
 Shewed at Lincoln 1584. 
 
 Stephen Thimelby esq. 
 
 
 j 
 
 William Ascough, dead. 
 
 Henry Ascough, esq. 
 
 j 
 
 ij 
 
 SImced not 1584. 
 
 Mr. Portington, gent. 
 
 j 
 
 ij 
 
 Shewed not 1584. 
 
 Anthony Sotchill, gent. 
 
 
 ij 
 
 
 Nicholas Girlington, esq. 
 
 
 
 j 
 
 
 Peter Evers, esq. 
 
 
 
 j 
 
 Putt in by my Lord. 
 
 Charles Dymmock, esq., 
 of Cotes. 
 
 
 
 j 
 
 Putt in by my Tjord. 
 
 Mr. Saunderson of Fil- 
 lingham, gent. 
 
 
 
 ij 
 
 
 Mr. Yarborough of 
 
 
 
 ij 
 
 
 Northrop. 
 
 
 
 Shewed not 1584. 
 
 Mr. Thomas Booth, gent. 
 
 
 
 ij 
 
 Shewed not 1584. 
 
 Mr, John Baily, gent, 
 of Normanby juxta 
 Trent. 
 
 
 j 
 
 Putt in by my Lord. 
 
 Mr. Robert Sheffield of 
 Epworth, gent. 
 
 j 
 
 Shewed not 1 584. 
 
 Mr. Nicholas Sutton of 
 Willerton, gent. 
 
 j insufficient 
 
 
 Mr. Darnyll, gent. 
 
 j 
 
 
 Mr. Richard Beverley, 1 
 
 j 
 
 
 gent. 
 
 
 
 Mr. John Bellingham 
 
 j 
 
 Putt in by my Lord. 
 
 Mr. Lcedesof Wintring- 
 ham, gent. 
 
 j 
 
 
 Mr. Williamson of 
 
 j 
 
 
 Gainsborough. 
 
 
 
 Mr. Gregory of Gains- 1 
 
 j 
 
 
 borough. 
 
 
 
 Robert Shadforth of 
 
 
 
 j 
 
 j insufficient. 
 
 j 
 
 j insufficient, 
 j
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 To my very good Lord the Lord Willoughbie of Parham, George St. 
 Poole, John Mounson. Phillipp Tirwhitt, and Marmaduke Tirwhitt 
 esquires, or to any five, four, or three of them. 
 
 I pray ye fail not to bring this Warrant with you at the time of the 
 Musters. 
 
 Castor Sessions. 
 
 
 
 
 Launces. 
 
 Light horse e. 
 
 Bee us. 
 
 William Tirwhitt, esq. 
 
 iij 3 
 
 Mort. 
 
 Francis Manby, esq. 
 
 3 .1 j 
 
 
 George Skipwith, esq. 
 
 j: 
 
 
 Christopher Kelke, esq. 
 
 j 
 
 
 The Lady S 4 Poole 
 
 j 
 
 
 Mr. Welby of Gouphill 
 
 
 
 
 
 ? Thomas Hatclif, esq. 
 
 j 
 
 
 
 Edward Madison, esq. 
 
 j 
 
 
 
 Mr. Rosseter, esq. 
 
 
 
 
 Mr. Wetherwicke, esq. 
 
 
 
 
 
 Mr. Sheffield of Croxbie, 
 
 
 
 
 
 esq. 
 
 
 
 
 Henry Everingham, 
 
 
 
 ij 
 
 
 gent. 
 
 
 
 
 ? John Jon, gent. 
 
 
 
 j 
 
 Increased by my Lord 
 
 Mr. Skerne of Bonbie, 
 
 j 
 
 ij 
 
 j Launce and j 
 
 gent. 
 
 
 
 Light horse. 
 
 Francis Myssenden of 
 Heling, gent. 
 
 
 
 j 
 
 Shewed not in 1584 
 
 Edward Ascough, esq. 
 
 j 
 
 ij 
 
 and j Light horse 
 
 Denzill Hollis, esq. 
 
 
 ij captaine 
 
 added by my Lord. 
 
 George Pormort, maior 
 of Grymsbie. 
 
 
 
 j insufficient 
 
 Shelved not 1584. 
 
 Mr. Trewesdale of 
 Hundon, gent. 
 
 
 
 j insufficient 
 
 Shetved not 1584, now 
 
 Mr. John Far re r of 
 
 
 
 j out of the 
 
 out of the hundred. 
 
 Cropton, gent. 
 
 
 country. 
 
 Shewed not 1584, in 
 
 Mr. Ryddall of Fereby, 
 
 
 
 j in wardship 
 
 wardship. 
 
 gent. 
 
 
 
 Shewed not 1584. 
 
 William Nelson of 
 Barton. 
 
 
 j insufficient 
 
 
 Mrs. Disney 
 
 
 j 
 
 Added by my Lord. 
 
 Mr. Wharf of Clipbie 
 
 
 
 j insufficient 
 
 Added by my Lord. 
 
 Mr. South of Keelbye 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 John Mavis of .North- 
 
 
 
 j 
 
 
 ketsye. 
 
 
 
 
 Thomas Berryk of 
 
 
 
 j 
 
 
 Walesbie. 
 
 
 
 
 John Cartwright of 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 Teelbie. 
 
 
 
 
 James Wright of 
 
 
 
 j 
 
 
 Bradley. 
 
 
 
 
 Mr. John Dighton of 
 
 
 
 j insufficient 
 
 
 Horstowe, gent. 
 
 
 
 
 Rafc Bard of Kelsey, 
 
 
 
 j 
 
 
 gent. 
 
 
 
 
 Tristram Tirwhitt of 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 Graynesbie, gent. 
 
 
 
 Somm Launces viij. 
 Somm Light horses xlij.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 To my verie loving friends Mr. William Willougby, Mr. William Wray, 
 Mr. Edward Ascough, Mr. Francis Mambye, and Mr. Thomas Hatclyfr, 
 or to any five, four, or three of them. 
 
 I pray you faile not to bring this Warrant with you at the tyme of the 
 Musters. 
 
 HORNCASTLE SESSIONS. 
 
 Coke 51$.- 
 
 Launces. 
 
 Light horses. 
 
 Not in the Country. 
 
 Added by my Lord. 
 
 Added in place of his 
 father S r Rob. Savile 
 dead. 
 
 Shewed not 1584. 
 
 Shelved not 1584 ? 
 Sheiced not 1584. 
 
 Shaved not 1584. 
 Added by my Lord. 
 
 S r Ed\vardDymmock,knt. 
 S r GeorgeIIenneage,knt. 
 Edward Tirwhitt, esq. 
 John Wingfield, esq. 
 Will Metham, esq. 
 Hammond Upton, esq. 
 Will 1 Henneage, esq. 
 Vincent Wei by of Haw- 
 stead, esq. 
 Francis Guevara, esq. 
 Thomas Dighton of 
 
 Wadingworth, gent. 
 Mr. Marberry, esq. 
 Archibald Barnard, esq. 
 Mr. Palfreyman, gent. 
 Mr. Goodriche of 
 
 Estkerkbie, gent. 
 John Littleberryof Hag- 
 
 worthingham, esq. 
 Valentine Brown of 
 
 Croft, esq. 
 Mr. Langton of Lang- 
 ton, gent. 
 Richard Handserd,gent. 
 Vincent Woolbv, esq. 
 Augustine Cavendishe 
 
 of Orby, gent. 
 John Savile of Poole- 
 
 ham, esq. 
 Nicholas Satinderson of 
 
 Reesby, esq. 
 Thomas Massingberd 
 
 of Bratoft, esq. 
 Mr. Tuttof, gent. 
 Edward Dymmock of 
 
 Thornton, gent. 
 John May of Mairing 
 Mr. Fulneby of Fulneby, 
 
 esq. 
 Robert Philipp of 
 
 Wispington. 
 ? William Lemme of 
 
 Apley. 
 Robert Leaehe of 
 
 Belchle worth. 
 Charles Booth of Rane, 
 
 gent. 
 Will 1 " Gannock of Sibsey 
 Thomas Thorne 
 John Stanley of Stinford 
 Will"' Sawio of Thorp 
 
 y 
 
 ij 
 J 
 
 j 
 J 
 
 .1 
 3 
 
 U 
 
 J 
 
 J 
 
 J 
 J 
 J 
 
 ij 
 
 3 
 
 j 
 
 j insufficient. 
 J 
 
 .i 
 
 .1 
 
 j insufficient. 
 
 j insufficient. 
 
 j 
 j
 
 6 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke ?ISS. Somm Launces x. 
 
 Somm Light horses xlv. 
 
 To my own good Lord Therle of Lincoln, Mr. William Henneage, 
 high sheriffe of the countie of Lincoln, S r Edward Dymmock, knight, 
 Mr. Edward Tirwhitt, Mr. Willm. Wetham esquires, or any five, four, 
 or three of them. 
 
 I pray you faile not to bring this Warrant with you at the time of the 
 Musters 
 
 Louth Sessions. 
 
 Launces. 1 Lisrht horse?. 
 
 Mort. 
 
 One light horse added 
 by my Lord. 
 
 Shewed not 1584. 
 Shewed not 1584. 
 
 Shewed not 1584. 
 
 S r William Skypwith, 
 
 knight. 
 William Fitz Williams, 
 
 esq. 
 Francis Copuldike, esq. 
 Thomas Moryson, esq. 
 Mr. Han by, gent. 
 Andrew Gedney, esq. 
 George Metham of j 
 
 Hanby, gent. 
 Charles Bolles, esq. 
 
 William S\mcott, gent. 
 Nicholas Thorndike of I 
 
 Greenfield, gent. 
 Thomas Littlebery of j 
 
 Staynsby, esq. 
 John Spendlove of ' 
 
 Hallestroppe, gent, 
 John Toothbe of | 
 
 Toothby, gent. 
 Richard Bolles, esq. ij 
 
 Edward Asserby of i 
 
 Billesbe, esq. 
 Thomas Skipwith of 
 
 Ovvterby, gent. 
 Roberte Purley of , 
 
 Hallestroppe, gent. 
 Mr. Biidley of Yar- | 
 
 borough, gent. 
 Oliver (?)Pennethropp j 
 
 of Gromelbie. 
 Dannie! 1 Skypwith of 
 
 Theddelthorpe, gent. | 
 Thomas Oresbie of ' 
 
 Theddelthorpe. 
 John Hundleby late of 
 
 Saltfleethye. 
 Robert Hastings of 
 
 Huttoft. 
 John Newcome of 
 
 Salaby. 
 Roger Death 
 Mr. Thorpe of Claxbie 
 Mr. Thomas Ellys 
 Mr. Hornbie. 
 
 U 
 
 ij 
 
 ij 
 ij 
 ij 
 j 
 j 
 
 ij captaine. 
 j insufficient, 
 ij 
 
 j 
 
 j 
 
 j 
 
 ij 
 j 
 
 j 
 j insufficient. 
 
 j insufficient. 
 
 j 
 j 
 j 
 j 
 j insufficient. 
 
 j 
 
 j 
 j 
 j 
 j 
 
 Somm Launces viij. 
 Somm Light horses xxxvj.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION". 7 
 
 To my very friends S r William Skipwith knight, Mr. Richard Bowles, Coin? MSS. 
 Mr. William FitzWilliams, Mr. Andrew Gedney, Mr. Thomas Brox- 
 holme esquires, or to any five, four, or three of them. 
 
 I pray you faile not to bring this warrant with you at the tyme of the 
 Musters. 
 
 1587, December 18. William, Lord Burghley, Lord Lieutenant of 
 Lincolnshire, to the Lord Willoughby of Parham and others, Deputy 
 Lieutenants of Lincolnshire. (Draft.) 
 
 After my very hearty commendations to your Lordship. Whereas 
 Her Majesty by her letters directed unto me of late, the like whereof have 
 been also directed to other Lieutenants of divers counties/br forces to 
 be sent towards the north, hath given order unto me as to Her Highness' 
 Lieutenant in the County of Lincoln as by the copy of the said letters 
 which T send to your Lordship herewith may more fully appear, that for 
 the increase of the army which by occasions may be levied by the Earl 
 of Huntingdon, Her Majesty's Lieutenant General for the Xorth parts, 
 for the defence of the frontiers towards Scotland against any invasion, 
 that by those parts may be made into the realm there should be a certain 
 number of horsemen and footmen put in readiness, that is to say, seven 
 hundred footmen and thirty lances well appointed and furnished with 
 such kind of armour, weapons, and sutficient conduct as in Her 
 Majesty's said letters is particularly expressed and specified. These are 
 to require your Lordship and the rest of my deputies to have earnest 
 care of the sorting, choosing, and furnishing of the said numbers as well 
 of horsemen as footmen with their leaders and captains, to be of such 
 quality as therein is prescribed, and the same to be in readiness when 
 their service shall be required as by Her Majesty's said letters is directed. 
 And for that 1 am not so well acquainted with the state of all the parts 
 of the said County to consider of myself how the said numbers of 
 horsemen and footmen may conveniently be proportioned out of the 
 several parts and divisions of the shire, 1 do therefore refer the same 
 wholly to the good consideration of your Lordship and others my 
 deputies for the assigning and proportioning thereof as you shall think 
 each division of the shire may well bear with good and equal itulifferency 
 to all parts, charging not thereby any artisan or any living by hand 
 labour, praying your Lordship to appoint some time of meeting and 
 conference for the speedy execution of the same, and of your proceeding 
 therein to give me like advertisement after you shall have taken order 
 therein according to Her Majesty's said letter. 
 
 [N.B. The words in italics are interlined in another handwriting, 
 perhaps by Lord Burghley himself.] 
 
 1587-8, January 4. From the Court at Greenwich. William 
 Lord Burghley, Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, to the Lord Willough- 
 by of Parham, Sir Edward Dymock, and Sir Anthony Thorold 
 (Draft.) 
 
 I have received your let ters, dated at Lincoln the 29th of December 
 which day you write you did assemble yourselves there by occasion of my 
 former letters whereof 1 was glad to understand, ami do very heartily 
 thank your Lordship and the rest for your travail and paines taken there- 
 in. And where you seem to doubt whether the 700 men appointed by 
 the direction of Her Majesty's letters to be put in readiness in the 
 county for any service that should be needful in the North parts or 
 about the frontiers towards Scotland, by order from my Lord of Hun- 
 tingdon, should be of those numbers that were appoitued to be trained
 
 8 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Ccsk mss. heretofore by former instructions, and those to be of the most substantial 
 and personable freeholders and husbandmen and their sons for defence 
 of that shire if any invasion should happen there, or otherwise to serve 
 about Her Majesty's person, the truth is when those instructions were 
 sent there was no intention to employ tliem otherwise tlnn in either of 
 those two services. But some accidents have fallen out sithence which 
 have given cause to have good regard to the north parts and to the 
 borders there. And because the defence thereof some part of the north 
 so near adjoining and bordering upon that shire is in some sort a good 
 defence to the same it shall not be amiss in that respect that the numbers 
 already trained for defence of that county be ready to be employed, if 
 need shall he, for the defence of the north parts so nearly adjacent. 
 Albeit I am in good hope by some intelligence I have received from 
 thence, and by the good care of Her Majesty that those parts shall 
 remain in quiet. Nevertheless it shall be requisite that the said number 
 of 700 men so appointed by Her Majesty be had in readiness for any 
 occasion which may be best supplied of the numbers already trained for 
 the diminution of the charge which otherwise, you write, would grow 
 burdenous to the country by training of several numbers, in which 
 respect I do easily concur in opinion with you therein. 
 
 As concerning the lances which you also write can very hardly be 
 supplied in the shire, as I do also think the number to be great for 
 those parts to furnish yet would the same be supplied if not of lances 
 yet of other light horse well furnished and such as maybe serviceable for 
 service in the North if cause should be, whereof I pray you to take 
 care for the furnishing thereof so well as conveniently may be. 
 
 1587-8, March 15. Beckingham. Charles Lord Willoughby of Parham 
 and Sir Anthony Thorold to the Lord Treasurer of England, Lord 
 Lieutenant of the County of Lincoln, give this with speed. 
 
 May it please your good Lordship to understand th it we have called 
 before us John Thimelby, Esquire, according to the letters directed to 
 your Lordship from the Lords and others of Her Majesty's most 
 Honourable Privy Council for order to be taken for the safekeeping of 
 Recusants. Of whom we required present bond of 300/. to the Queen's 
 Majesty to be acknowledged before us with a condition according to 
 the tenor and contents of the said letters as we do conceive of the same, 
 a true copy whereof we do herewith send to your Lordship, which he 
 in that part utterly refused to acknowledge, which concerneth conference 
 with others of that sect, which we take to be one of the principal points 
 of your Lordship's said letters. And because he hath informed us that 
 he had received process from the Lord Archbishop of Canterbury to 
 appear at Lambeth before his Grace and others the last of this instant 
 March and standeth bound for his appearance there at the same day 
 and place, we have taken bond of him in five hundred pounds for his 
 personal appearance before us or the one of us before the 11th of April 
 next ensuing the date hereof, at which time of his appearance we mean 
 to take such order as your Lordship shall direct us therein. 
 [The enclosure in above letter.] 
 
 The condition of this Recognizance is such that whereas the above 
 bounden John Thimelby (by letters and orders from the Lords of Her 
 Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council to the Lord Lieutenant of 
 the County of Lincoln directed and from his Lordship to his deputies 
 in the said county returned for the committing of such persons as be 
 known to be Recusants to such as are fit for their safe keeping, there 
 to remain at their own charge, to be restrained in such sort as they 
 may be forthcoming and kept from intelligence one with another) who
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 9 
 
 is now by the said deputies committed to the custody and safekeeping CoKE jj SS 
 of Bartholomew Armin, Esquire, accordingly. If therefore the above 
 
 bounden John Thimelby do remain, continue, and be true prisoner in 
 the house and custody of the said Bartholomew Armin and do not at 
 any time depart from the said custody in his said house except it be in 
 the company of the said Bartholomew Armin or of such other trusty 
 and credible person or persons of the household of the said Bartholomew 
 Armin, for whom the said Bartholomew will answer, until such time as 
 he shall he discharged and enlarged from the custody of the said 
 Bartholomew Armin either by order from Her Majesty or some of Her 
 Highness' most Honourable Privy Council, or else by the Lord Lieu- 
 tenant of this said county or his said deputies or two of them at the 
 least. And in the mean time to have no conference or dealing willingly 
 or wittingly with any other Recusant, That then &c. 
 
 1588, April 2. The Court at Greenwich. The Lords of the Privy 
 Council to the Lord Burghley, Lord High Treasurer of England and 
 Her Majesty's Lieutenant in the County of Lincoln. 
 
 Whereas the Queen is given to understand of the continuement of the 
 great preparations of the King of Spain which are thought to be intended 
 towards these parts, Her Highness being desirous to understand the 
 general estate of the forces of the whole realm hath caused such certi- 
 ficates to be viewed as have been sent hither from such as have been 
 heretofore appointed Lieutenants in sundry counties in this realm. 
 And forasmuch as contrary to Her Majesty's and our expectations 
 it is found that no such certificate hath been sent up from Your 
 Lordship, Her pleasure and commandment hath been that we should 
 signify so much unto your Lordship and earnestly to require your 
 Lordship forthwith with all the speed that possibly may be to cause 
 a survey of all the horsemen and trained men of that county under 
 your Lord Lieutenancy to be made so as the bands may be complete 
 and severally trained with as much ease of the country as may be in 
 convenient number according to former directions so as the same may 
 be in a readiness to be employed as occasion shall require. And to the 
 intent the said certificates may be made in due order according to Her 
 Majesty's desire and in such form as others have done, We have 
 thought good to send unto your Lordship herein enclosed a pattern in 
 what sort the same shall be made which we pray your Lordship to 
 return unto us accordingly with all the speed that possibly may be, and 
 so we bid your Lordship right heartily farewell. 
 
 Signed by Sir Christopher Hattou (Chancellor), William, Lord 
 Burghley, Robert, Earl of Leicester, Lord Charles Howard, II. Heneage, 
 Sir Francis Walsingham, and J. Woolley. 
 
 1588, April 28. Plymouth. Sir Francis Drake to the Lord Treasurer. 
 Advertisements from the coast of Spain. Money taken up upon credit 
 for the provision of victual for the ships. Asks for a warrant for a 
 present supply of money. Marmaduke Dnrell adds that he has sent ;i 
 particular of this service. 
 
 1588, April 29. Beckingham. Charles Lord Willoughby rf Parham 
 and Sir Anthony Thorold to the Lord Treasurer of England. Lord Lieu- 
 tenant of Lincolnshire. 
 
 May it please your good Lordship to understand that cabins; all the 
 captains appointed to serve in this shire (amongst others) before us at 
 Lincoln on Wednesday last, being the 24th of April instant, for the 
 view of their horses, armour, and petronels wherewith they were before 
 charged to provide and have in readiness, they all answered that thev 
 trusted forsomuch as they were appointed to be leaders of footmen that
 
 10 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke 31SS. they should not be charged in any other sort, because they were to 
 employ all their own men able to serve about themselves, where or 
 when they should be commanded to serve. And aiso tor that they are 
 to be at greater charge than other men for the providing of themselves, 
 their servants and officers, in that service whereunto they are appointed, 
 and shall be occasioned (as they say) to use their horses otherwise for 
 themselves. Nevertheless they refer themselves to your Lordship's 
 pleasure, which we desire to understand from your Lordship. We did 
 also send warning to the Masters of the Close of Lincoln, having living 
 above 100/. by the year to have lances in readiness according to the statute 
 (wherein they are not excepted) to be showed before us at a day pre- 
 fixed and past, at which day we were answered by some of them in the 
 name of vhe rest that not only they but the whole clergy have been 
 lately charged as well into Ireland as into Flanders, by warrant and 
 commandment for Her Majesty only, and therefore do think them to be 
 free from all musters and from commandment of any others saving Her 
 Majesty's only lettersor commandment. Wherein we beseech your Lordship 
 10 resolve us of your pleasure therein, forsomuch as since the last general 
 musters in this county there are great alterations of persons appointed to 
 serve with armour by reason of death, sickness, removing into other 
 countries, and other impediments whereby other former muster books are 
 made so imperfect as we know not how to deal with (as we wish and 
 would) if any sudden occasion should here happen whereof we thought 
 good to advertise your Lordship and to know your pleasure therein 
 likewise. And whether we shall give commandment for watching of 
 beacons or not. In our last letters we did remember your Lordship of 
 the Jack of powder and match, which was commanded in the time of the 
 late Earl of Rutland's lieutenancy in this county to be provided by the 
 City of Lincoln and the towns of Boston and Great Crrimsby, who as we 
 signified in our said last letters, being fallen into great decay and 
 poverty by God's long visitation, are not able to answer the great charge 
 there imposed upon them, wherein we also desire to know your Lord- 
 ship's pleasure. We also desire to know your Lordship's pleasure 
 whether the captains of footmen shall be commanded to train their shot 
 on holydays after morning prayer by their lieutenants, sergeants, cor- 
 porals, and vintinyers and other skilful in their bands in places near the 
 habitations of the shot, whereby they may be the better acquainted 
 with their pieces and how to serve therewith, which if your Lordship so 
 like we think would be necessary, as well for the untrained shot as 
 trained in any town, and may be so well performed with small travail 
 and without any charge saving for powder and match. As for training 
 of pikemen and archers, we think it not greatly needful. The horsemen 
 of this shire have not hitherto been trained, your pleasure therein we 
 are also to desire. 
 
 li)88, May 13. Islington. Sir Edward Dymoke to the Lord Treasurer 
 of England and Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire. That Mr. Askew 
 may have the office of muster master for the County, &c. The mort- 
 gage of Wildmore awaits his Lordship's commandment. 
 
 1588, July 2. Beckingham. Charles, Lord Willoughby of Parham, 
 and Sir Anthony Thorold to the Lord Treasurer, Lord Lieutenant of 
 the County of Lincoln. 
 
 In the three parts of this shire we have seen the numbers of the 
 several bands complete and furnished, and have given order and strait 
 charge to all the captains, leaders, and soldiers of the trained bands 
 therein not to be absent or out of the way. The rest of the shire we 
 doubt not but that Sir Edward Dymmock will likewise perform. We
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 11 
 
 have also caused all beacons to be watched both day and night, charge 
 to constables to search and apprehend all reporters of seditious tale* and 
 rumours ; we have sent the names of four gentlemen which we think 
 to be most fit to be a provost marshal. Will do our best endeavour to 
 increase the number of lances and light horse. Your Lordship hath set 
 down in your plot sent to us to hand 38 lances which we doubt will not 
 in anywise be performed. As for light horse we hope to procure some 
 increase. For the quantity of powder appointed we have taken order 
 that the same shall be presently had and kept in store for service here 
 as occasion shall serve. And for that we do know that Lincoln, Boston, 
 Great Grimsby, Grantham, and Stamford were much burthened, we have 
 for their ease divided some part of their charge amongst all the market 
 towns in this shire. 
 
 1588, August 20. Lincoln. Charles, Lord Willoughby of Parham, 
 and Sir Anthony Thorold to the Lord Treasurer of England, Lord 
 Lieutenant of the County of Lincoln. 
 
 Our very good Lord, according to your Lordship's letters we have 
 dealt with Sir Edward Dymock as your honour willed us, whom we 
 find very forward and desirous to ser\e in some place of credit, and do 
 think if he had some little experience would be able to do very good 
 service. But being one of your Lordship's deputies in this shire we 
 think he may not well be spared forth of the same. He meaneth 
 shortly to wait upon your Lordship himself. 
 
 1588, August 20. Lincoln. Charles Lord Willoughby of Parham, Sir 
 Edward Dymoke, and Sir Anthony Thorold, to the Lord Treasurer of 
 England, Lord Lieutenant of tne County of Lincoln. 
 
 May it please your good Lordship. Upon Saturday last we received 
 your Lordship's letters sent by Sir William Bead, and have met this day 
 according to your Lordship's direction. In which letter your Lordship 
 requireth to be advertised from us in what sort we mean to proceed and 
 in what time we think the forces will be ready, which of the bands are 
 prepared, and which of the captains heretofore named we think fittest 
 to be employed in the northern service. For answer, whereunto, it 
 may like your Lordship first to understand that wn have the full num- 
 ber ot 700 of trained footmen with their captains and furniture in 
 readiness upon any sudden when they shall be called for. We have 
 thought good (if your Lordship do not will the contrary) to allot the 
 whole number of 700 to three captains furthest from the danger of 
 invasion here, videlicet, Mr. George St. Poll to have the leading of 200 
 appointed and trained in Spittle Sessions, and Mr. Robert Carr the younger 
 (whom we take to be skilful in service), and Mr. Nicholas Ogle to have 
 the charge and leading of 500 trained men levied in Kesteven and 
 Holland, viz., either of them 250. The other captains nearer the sea 
 coast, and the soldiers limited to he under their several conduction, we 
 think good to forbear to employ in that service, because we are loath 
 to diminish the strength about the sea coast, they being fittest (as we 
 think), to withstand any attempt of invasion on that coast near them. 
 For the captains appointed in this shire, not one of them except Mr. 
 Robert Carr, junior, hath been employed or trained in any material 
 service, but now very willing to serve, neither hath any of them any 
 lieutenants that hath served with any charge but such young gentlemen 
 as are desirous to serve with and under those captains which are 
 appointed. As touching the lanees, to let your Lordship understand a 
 truth, we do not find in all our country any such as we think will be 
 allowed by the Lord Lieutenant in the north, when he shall see them,
 
 12 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 neither can our country yield any better, and as time now serveth and 
 of late years have served, we know not how or where our country 
 gentlemen (who are willing in all dutiful manner), should provide any 
 better. But if it might please the Lords of Her Majesty's most 
 Honourable Privy Council, by your Lordship's good means to charge our 
 country for that service with fifty of the largest and best geldings we 
 have for light horse (if your Lordship shall think it fit to weaken our 
 country bo much), we can of very small warning have them in readiness 
 
 1588 Oct. . His house in Mincing Lane. Sir John Hawkins to the 
 Lord High Treasurer of England at the Court. 
 
 I do send your Lordship a book of charge that appertaineth to me. I 
 have set in the margin what is paid and defrayed by me and what 
 resteth to pay. In the end of the book is an abstract of the whole 
 charge of those ships that served by warrant the charge in the respect 
 of victual, the coasters, the voluntary ships, the charge of rewards to 
 hurt men and those that burnt the ships. I humbly pray your Lordship 
 to be favourable to me that I may end some part of my life with some 
 quietness. The matters in this office are far out of order and far 
 behindhand, which I shall never overcome unless I be sequestered from 
 the new business. 
 
 1589, April 29. Deptford. Sir John Hawkins to the Lord High 
 Treasurer of England. 
 
 I have examined the matter touching the complaint of Mr. Ortyll ; 
 there could be no abuse proved ; he confessed he had been misinformed. 
 We did also agree before him with those two ships that were stayed to 
 go to Arondell for plank, of which we have great need. There ar3 no 
 English vessels that are fit for this service, but these are long piatts and 
 draw little water and the Haven at Arondell is very bad and the plank 
 very long. We have at Mr. Ortell's request all this year forborne to 
 take any Bylanders, but our necessity is such that we may not forbear 
 them, yet meaning to pay them well and use them with all courtesy. 
 
 1589, November 9. Cambridge. R. Booth to John Coke. Deliver 
 these at Mr. Nuills by the conduit in Westminster. 
 
 Scripsi ad te superiore septimana : sed vereor ne ad manus tuas 
 literae nostrae non venerint ; ad nostras certe venerunt tuae. * * 
 Quod tarn a patrono tuo humanitate habitus sis non tarn miror quam 
 profecto ex animo laetor, quod ego uberioris in posterum felicitatis 
 augurium magnum esse arbitror. Interea dum tu in magna loci muta- 
 tione vivis ut scribis, placide 1103 hie in eodem loco consistentes tamen 
 magna turbulentissimaque tempestate jactamur. Johnsonus et Bain- 
 bridge nosti quo loco erant turn (tamen ?) non apud nos esses, ille con- 
 sensu capitum exturbatus est academia. Verum non ad universum 
 corpus provocaret a sententia Vice Cancellarii, instatur valde ab amicis 
 ut in senatum deducatur, idque jam pugnatur acerrime procuratore 
 Betso qui oratione sua procuratoria ita capita perstrinxit ut illis 
 multum non placeat; habet collegium paulo tardiose alioqui ipse con- 
 gregationem ad Johnsonum relevandum imperasset * redde quaeso 
 nobis eas preces quas pro te facimus nobisque sit proficuum divulsi 
 quoniam conjuncti vivere non possumus. Vale mi Coke, et banc 
 absentiam compensa quantum potes, ego certe non deero crebritate 
 literarum desiderium meum praesentia tuo significandi. Iterum vale. 
 Tuus vere. 
 
 1589, November. " A note or estimate of the charge for the ordinary 
 keeping of Her Highness Ships and other Vessels in Harborough at
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 13 
 
 Chatham (and Castle of Upnor) together with sundry other charges 
 incident to the same." 
 
 Elizabeth Jonas 
 Triumph 
 White Bear 
 Merhoneur 
 S e Matthew 
 
 (each 30 men). 
 S* Andrew 
 Victory 
 Ark Rauleighe 
 
 (each 17 men). 
 Due Repulse 
 Garland 
 
 (each 15 men). 
 Hope 
 
 Mary Rose 
 Bonaventure 
 Golden Lion 
 Wartspite 
 Defiance 
 Nonperelie 
 Gardland 
 Vangard 
 Rainbow 
 
 (each 12 men). 
 Dreadnought 
 Swiftsure 
 Antelope 
 Swallow 
 Foresight 
 George 
 
 (each 10 men). 
 
 Aid 
 
 Adventure 
 
 Advantage 
 
 Crane 
 
 Quittance 
 
 Answer 
 
 Tiger 
 
 Tremontane 
 
 (each 5 men). 
 Scout 
 
 (5 men). 
 Achates 
 Charles 
 Moon 
 Advice 
 
 Spy 
 
 Marline 
 
 Galley Bonavolia 
 
 (each 4 men). 
 Popingaie 
 Sonne 
 
 (each 3 men). 
 Signet 
 Jennett 
 Frigatt 
 
 (each 2 men). 
 6 Great Boats for 
 
 landing of men. 
 6 Common Mariners 
 
 > 
 
 Yearly Wages. 
 
 
 s. 
 
 d. 
 
 Master - 26 1 
 
 8 
 
 Boatswaine - 10 17 
 
 3 
 
 Purser - 8 13 
 
 9 
 
 Cook - - 7 12 
 
 1 
 
 Carpenter - 10 8 
 
 7 
 
 Caulker - 10 8 
 
 7 
 
 MasterGunner 9 15 
 
 6 
 
 Common 
 
 
 Mariner - 6 10 
 
 
 
 J 
 
 } 
 
 Yearly. 
 
 Total 430 men. Wages 3,396 2 10 
 
 
 
 s. 
 
 d. 
 
 150 
 
 7 
 
 4 
 
 2,500 
 
 
 
 
 
 2,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 341 
 
 16 
 
 
 
 176 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 160 
 
 
 
 
 
 Upnor Castle, Master Gunner and 7 other Gunners - 
 
 Carpenter and Caulking with all manner of stuff 
 
 incident ------ 
 
 The Moorings - 
 
 Wages of Clerks, Keepers of Storehouses, &c. 
 
 Rent of Marsh Ground, Night watch, paper, ink, &e. 
 
 Repairs of Lower Wharfs, docks, cranes, &c. 
 
 1590, May 2. Plymouth. Sir Francis Drake and John Blythman, 
 Mayor, to the Lords of Her Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 I, P'rancis Drake, repaired to Plymouth, and having conference with 
 the mayor and others of the best judgment ami experience provided of 
 pitch, tar, and brimstone, all which we have brought together into St. 
 Nicholas Island. We have taken order that all the barges, fisher boats 
 and other small boats will be in such convenient readiness as they may 
 be speedily assembled so that there resterb nothing but the lading of 
 those provisions aboard. And for the better strength of the town we 
 have mounted divers pieces belonging to sundry inhabitants, some upon 
 the towers of the castle and others near thereunto. There was an 
 intent in me, Francis Drake, finding so many meet men and willing minds 
 for such a purpose to have followed the Spanish fleet passed to the east
 
 14 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 ward, in hope enough to have done some service upon them, but they 
 are not come and the wind too much easterly. It may please your 
 Lordships to signify your pleasure whether I shall continue at this town 
 or pursue the fleet if they shall haply pass from Plymouth to the 
 eastwards. 
 
 1590, May 19. Plymouth. Sir Francis Drake to the Lord High 
 Treasurer of England. 
 
 I have sent a particular note of the pitch, powder, tar, and other pro- 
 visions for fireworks with their several prices, which lieth aboard the 
 Island ready upon any sudden occasion of service. I find the town 
 most willing and ready in furtherance of this or any other good service 
 to the uttermost of their abilities, notwithstanding I see they are some- 
 what surcharged with the continual maintenance of defensible places, 
 wherefore I am the bolder in their behalf to entreat your furtherance of 
 their humble suit unto Her Majesty for the erection of a fort which 
 may safely delend both the town and haven as your Lordship may 
 perceive by the plot thereof which the mayor hath sent herewith by this 
 bearer. 
 
 1590, November 10. Aboard the Mary Eose. Sir John Hawkins 
 to the Lord High Treasurer of England. 
 
 I cannot make ready very speedily, for that the ships must be 
 grounded this spring. The Rainbow was sore spoiled, spent her 
 foremast. The weather hath been very foul and much hindered us. 
 I have had care and will have to ease Her Majesty's charge as it 
 were my own. I have sent divers payments to my wife at London. 
 1 humbly pray your Lordship to help Mr. Fenton with two or three 
 thousand pounds to pay those payments which I will allow upon his 
 receipt. 
 
 1590-1, January 15. Mincing Lane. Sir John Hawkins to Mr. 
 Henry Maynard, Secretary to the Lord Treasurer. 
 
 I send you the note for the warrant which is now to be procured 
 from Her Majesty for the ships that were to the southwards under my 
 charge. I pray likewise a warrant from my Lord to Dartmouth to 
 discharge the custom of the goods brought in by the prize taken by 
 the Dainty. There is a remain of a warrant of the 27th March 
 1588, of 1,147/. 10s. Od., which with the warrant now to be procured 
 from Her Majesty will make according to the note here inclosed the 
 sum of 4,385/. 13*. 8d. 
 
 1590-1, January 23. Deptford. Sir John Hawkins to the Lord 
 Treasurer. 
 
 Prays that his accounts may be settled. "I do not desire to better 
 my estate, my brother being deceased and my wife in such an extreme 
 sickness as not like to recover ; myself in years and subject to sickness 
 and infirmities. I desire not to be made rich, but that I may by 
 your Lordship's honourable favour have an honest reputation of my 
 charge and former life. And that travail which I may hereafter take 
 for Her Majesty's service shall be faithful without corruption and my 
 poor advice wherein experience hath taught me shall be without spot cr 
 any covetous desire." 
 
 1590-1, February 9. London. Sir John Hawkins to the Lord 
 Treasurer. 
 
 Has disbursed much on his own credit for wages and victual. Also 
 for repairing and new rigging of the Ralnboxc. "Truly my very good 
 Lord necessity doth force me to trouble your Lordship to do me some 
 favour for my poor ability is not able to bear so great a burden."
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 15 
 
 1591, July 4. Deptford. Sir John Hawkins to the Lord High Coke MSS. 
 Treasurer. 
 
 I have sent the note which your Lordship willed me to make. Humbly 
 desiring your good Lordship to pardon mine attendance for that it hath 
 pleased God to take my wife to his mercy, godly in her life and godly 
 in her death. 
 
 1591-2, February 24. Mincing Lane. Sir John Hawkins to the Lord 
 Treasurer. Asks a warrant for transporting of the hides to be paid for 
 by instalments, as his partners are very sufficient men and of good credit, 
 as others who have liberty to go before will make their market worse. 
 
 1592, May 7. Deptford. Sir John Hawkins to the Lord Treasurer. 
 Providing hemp, and boats and pinnaces. 
 
 1593, June 25. " My Lord Admiral's orders concerning the Clerks of 
 the Store and Check at Portsmouth," assigning to them certain lodgings. 
 
 (Signed) .Joliu Hawkyns. W. Borough. 
 
 1593, August 24. Deptford. Sir John Hawkins to the Lord Treasurer. 
 Estimate of charge for the hoys to bring back soldiers into England. 
 
 1593, December 8, Hendon. J. Fortescue (Chancellor of the Exche- 
 quer) to Mr. Skynner. 
 
 Her Majesty hath expressly commanded that no payment shall be 
 paid to Sir Horatio Pallavicini, neither for the great debt nor for the 
 interest of the same without her especial knowledge and pleasure. 
 
 1593-4, February 13. Draft by John Coke endorsed "My letter to 
 Mr. Fulke Grevill from Heidelberg." 
 
 Sir, I hope you have received my former letters specially that by 
 Mr. Wickham, my Lord of Essex's man, sent from the last Frankfort 
 mart. He carried letters from the Prince Elector and promised either 
 to write back or return shortly. Therein I writ at large of the Hanse 
 towns ... I have not yet passed Heidelberg both for the winter season 
 and specially to sec the Parliament which beginneth at Regensburg the 
 7th of April as it is yet appointed. 
 
 1593-4, March 6. Stade. Richard Gilpin to John Coke while travel- 
 ling in Germany. 
 
 Refers to Mr. Coke's letters of 19 Sept. 1593 from Frankfort, and 
 16 January 1593-4 from Heidelberg. As to supplies of money. 
 
 Endorsed in Mr. Coke's writing with names of places between Mul- 
 hausen and Offenburg. 
 
 1594, April 15. "Acquittance for Tillington rent," from Trinity 
 College, Cambridge. Signed by Edward Batte, Senior Bursar. 
 
 1594, June 20. Deptford. Sir John Hawkins to the Lord .High 
 Treasurer of England. 
 
 Sending a note of the money that is to be paid upon the new warrant. 
 The presters are despatched for Newcastle, Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, 
 also for Cornwall and Devon. 
 
 1594, August 28. Deptford. Sir John Hawkins to the Lord Treasurer. 
 Desires to have one joined in patent with him, to execute the place he 
 holds, so that with a quiet mind he may leave the cares of this world and 
 prepare himself for the time to come. Sir Henry Palmer will not under- 
 take matters of account. Mr. Monson is sickly and w r ill refuse it. 
 
 1594, August 29. Fredericus Guttetter, Polonus, Cracovia, Joh- 
 hanni Cocio. Tarditatem et morositatem doleo potius quani miror inesse 
 Germanorum ingenio : sed quid accuso illos, cum et nostri feminis 
 molliores se esse ostendunt.
 
 1G HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1504, October 19. To Sir Thomas Heneage, Knight, Her Majesty's 
 
 Vice Chamberlain and of Her Most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Part of a despatch relating to transactions between the Hungars and 
 the Prince of Transylvania "who answered the Ambassador of the 
 Hungars that the Princes of Transylvania were always faithful to the 
 Ottoman Emperors. The Companies' servants and I have had a 
 paltry jarring togethe:-. If their masters in England shall make any 
 complaint I pray your Honour to send Mr. Bate to know the estate 
 thereof. Within 105 his palace have been lately committed divers 
 murders, a rich Jew having carried into the palace divers precious 
 jewels was never see it to come out. It was found that not only he but 
 divers other rich merchants had been slain by Jemozlans serving 
 certain dwarfs attending 105, for which the malefactors were punished 
 and 105 greatly aggrieved that under his nose in his house such 
 villainy should be committed." 
 
 1594 ? A closely written draft of Mr. Coke's writing. 
 
 " The complaints of the Protestant States of the Augsburgish Con- 
 fession given up after the Emperor's proposition 16 June 94." 
 
 There is written in the opposite direction a long letter (perhaps to 
 Lord Burghley or the Earl of Essex) beginning, " Right Honourable 
 my very good Lord, I have not presumed hitherto to write unto your 
 Lordship because in the ordinary course of my travel I found nothing 
 worthy your Honour's special information. Notwithstanding to per- 
 form my duty from time to time I have written to Mr. Giftvell all I 
 observed in these parts, and doubt not but he hath informed your Lord- 
 ship of any thing therein more worth the notice. This city (Ratisbon) 
 and meeting have afforded a more perfect compendious image of the 
 whole state of the Empire and therefore I have now ventured according 
 to your commandment to acquaint your Honour with their proceedings." 
 [Full account of the meeting and ceremonials of the Princes.] 
 
 1594-5, March 7. Cambridge. Dr. P. Baro, pietate atque doctrina 
 insigni humanissimoque viro Magistro Foulke Grevill. 
 
 " Cum nuper hie esses et quasdem a me contra pontificiam transub- 
 stantiationem productas in prfelectione rationes te expetere significa- 
 tum fuisset, equidem agre tuli quod descriptas non haberem. Compo- 
 sitionem otfero de seterna Dei electione et reprobatione, qua? certe res 
 dignissima est quam acri solidoque tuo judicio perpendas. Hoc tibi 
 quern literarum et literatorum fautorem esse audio ingratum non fuisse 
 intelligero." 
 
 1594-5, March 22. Mincing Lane. Sir John Hawkins to the Lord 
 Treasurer. 
 
 Asks compassion for the contractors for the pepper, who are not able 
 to perform their bargain for payment. 
 
 1595, April 10. [Richard Robinson, writer of description by Captain 
 William Middleton and Mr. Thomas Greenwell, two most true and dili- 
 gent observers of these accidents]. 
 
 A brief and true relation as well of the seven former memorable 
 adventures or voyages of the Right Honourable George Earl of Cumber- 
 land since the year of Christ our Saviour 1585 as also of the eighth and 
 last voyage at large the last year 1594. 
 
 To the virtuous minded noblemen and gentlemen of England. 
 
 Preface exhortatory .... 
 
 The seven former voyages in brief. 
 
 1. Imprimis. His Honourable Lordship made his first preparation to 
 the coast of Brazil with his own good ship the Samson and other con-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 17 
 
 sorts, even presently upon the embargo of our English ships in Spain. Coke MSS. 
 Anno 1585. 
 
 2. In the second voyage His Honour victualled, manned, and equipped 
 the Golden Lion of Her Majesty to the further southward and that with 
 no small peril to his honour's person. 
 
 3. In the third voyage his Honour adventured his person in the 
 Victory, being one of Her Majesty's ships royal, to the southward. 
 
 4. In the fourth his Honour again adventured in the Garland, Her 
 Majesty's ship, attended upon with his own ship the Samson and other 
 ships of London. 
 
 5. In the fifth his Honour furnished and sent out the Great Tiger that 
 French ship and the Samson with ihree other good ships. 
 
 6. In the sixth his Honour adventured again in person in the Lion 
 and Bonaventura, Her Majesty's ships, attended upon with the Samson 
 and other good ships. 
 
 7. In the seventh his Honour sent forth to the Indies the Anthony 
 and the Pilgrim, also a new ship built at Hampton and a pinnace. 
 
 Thus far the seven former voyages in brief by the instruction of that 
 learned worthy Captain William Middleton, Gent, sometime Secretary 
 to the old Right Honourable William Earl of Pembroke, deceased, after- 
 wards ensign bearer to the noble knight Sir Philip Sydney at Zutphen, 
 1586, and now chief captain, passenger, actor, and (with Mr. Thomas 
 Greenwell) reporter of the 8th and last vovage 1594, as followeth. 
 
 His honourable Lordship sent this year to the Island of Terceira two 
 
 ships of London named the Royal Exchange and the Mayflower of 90 
 
 tons apiece, with his own ship the Samson of 200 tons, and a small 
 
 pinnace. All of which together the 6th of April set sail from Plymouth 
 
 . . . [The following are the marginal abstracts] 
 
 On the 2nd of June they had sight of St. Michaels. They descry a 
 great G'arack on the westward of Fayal. The Samson and the Mayflower 
 batter her. The English captains do confer. The Admiral and the 
 Samson lay her aboard. The Mayflower and the Carack fire their own 
 sails. The Admiral annoyed with fireworks. The Carack's company 
 (being in extreme danger of burning) do twice hang out their flag of 
 truce to our men to save their lives thereby. The obstinate refusal of 
 their captain to yield. The great men, Spaniards, stand ail mute and 
 amazed. The Admiral and the Mayflower now clear from the Carack. 
 The Spaniards drowning themselves. Their captain charged with their 
 deaths. The riches in tbis Carack. Nune Velio Perira and Bras Corea 
 brought captive? into England and kept prisoners by the Earl of 
 Cumberland, then lying at the Charterhouse. The number of the 
 Spaniards perished in this Carack (1,100). The Englishmen hurt and 
 slain. The hurl, death, and burial of the worthy English General 
 (George Cave). Double cause for England to praise and thank God. 
 The English fleet agree to go for Flores. On St. Peter's day the Admiral 
 and the Mayflower espy another Carack. The want of worthy General 
 Cave's service, he now lying hurt upon his bed (by a poisoned shot). 
 The Mayflower and the Carack in fight. The Admiral's advertisement 
 to the Mayflower. The fleet all batter the Carack. After spoil a parley. 
 The Spanish captain's answer to the parley. The Mayflower and the 
 Carack again in fight. The English captains do again confer. They 
 could not fetch up the Carack. The Samson losing the fleet they 
 leave the Carack to seek and find her. The English fleet returneth 
 home. 
 
 A peroration or conclusion gratulatory to the virtuous and noble 
 minded noblemen and gentlemen of England. 
 
 U 24963. B
 
 18 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke M8S. Virtus Unita Iuvincibilior. 
 
 This paper is endorsed by J. Coke " Relation of the Earl of Cum- 
 berland's 8 voyages." 
 
 1595, July 16. Plymouth. Sir Francis Drake and Sir John Hawkins 
 to the Lord High Treasurer of England, at tho Court. 
 
 All our fleet are in good order here saving two barques that we expect 
 from Portsmouth every day, and thanks be to God we have no great 
 matter to do, but we shall finish and be ready to depart by the end of 
 this month. 
 
 1595, October 4. Florence. Thomas Lord Grey de Wilton, " Al raolto 
 magco Sign 1, e patron mio oss mo il Sig r Giovanni Coke, Inglese, dirimpetto 
 alia Sapienza in Sienna." 
 
 Asks delivery of a letter to Friar Battista, as to an Euclid in Greek 
 and Latin. " The kindnesses wherewith you have already favoured me, 
 and the virtues which I see clearly shining in you are of such force that 
 I shall ever hold myself very far engaged heartily to love and exceed- 
 ingly to honour them in you. I pray you let us by mutual letter? 
 acquaint one the other with his occurrences both foreign and domestical." 
 
 1595, November 4. Venice. Eleazer Hickman to John Coke in 
 Siena. 
 
 If you be in want I will furnish you upon your bill to be sent into 
 England. 
 
 1595 ? A paper in Coke's writing, endorsed by him : 
 
 " A letter and treatise concerning staples in England." 
 
 " This was the occasion of a larger treatise written after my return 
 
 home." 
 
 Coke 'speaks of his "going into France," of " the Transylvanian " 
 
 [Stephen Bathory], of the young Turk [Mahomet III.]. 
 
 It is addressed, " To the right worshipful Mr. Fulke Grevill, Esquire, 
 
 give this at the Court." 
 
 1595-6, March 24. Sea store for the carpenters of Her Majesty's 
 ships and pinnaces at Chatham. Endorsed by Coke. " Precedents by 
 Mr. Burroughs." 
 
 1596, July 1, Geneva. "Is: Casaubonus, Nobilissimo Viro Johauni 
 Coceo pietate atque eruditione praestanti amico plurimum colendo 
 Aureliam (Orleans). 
 
 Persuade tibi si quis sit oinni tuoruni necessariorum numero qui te 
 amet ex animo et bona fide colat eum esse me. Oro te apud nobilis- 
 simum Savilium et eruditissimum Dunaeum magis magisque ponas me 
 in gratiam." 
 
 [1596,] August 1. Orleans. John Coke to Fulke Grevill. 
 
 Endorsed by Coke, "A letter concerning the state of France." 
 (10 folio pages of small writing.) 
 
 [This paper, not dated, is probably of the year 1596. It discusses 
 the probable inducements to a peace between France and Spain. It 
 speaks of France as being still divided into hostile parties, the " Religion " 
 being led by Bouillon, Tremouille, and Lesdiguieres. It refers near the 
 end to the King, Henry IV., having caused the Parliament of Paris to 
 recognize his nephew the Prince of Conde as the heir to the Crown. 
 
 1596-1603. Endorsed by Coke, " Upnor Castle, Sir John Lewson." 
 
 1596. Captain Vaughan in command with 50 soldiers, till his death. 
 Then Sir John Trevor in command. Captain Jones his lieutenant.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION". 19 
 
 1599. The Castle ordered to be repaired; finished 3rd December Coke mss. 
 1601 ; 1,259/. 4*. lid. expended. 
 
 (1596, about,) September 30. Mr. Foulk Grevyl to Mr. J. Coke. 
 Endorsed by Coke, " Mr. Grevile to me when I was beyond seas." 
 
 I have shewed your letter to the Queen, who is in so great good liking 
 of it as her pleasure was, I should acquaint my Lord Treasurer with 
 it. I told her if she would bestow you worthily her service was both 
 my ambition and yours, but otherways I would forsake your company 
 for no second person living. 
 
 1597, April 22. Orders established touching the Hoys men. 
 
 (Signed) C. Howard. W. Borough. 
 
 1597, July 29. Endorsed by Coke " Brother Francis from Trusley. 
 His account for Tillington and my annuities from Michaelmas 1593, 
 till Annunciation 1597 included." 
 
 Trusley. Francis Coke to John Coke at Mr Grevill's lodgings 
 Essex House in the Strand. 
 
 " Here good brother have I sent you a true note to my remembrance 
 both of my receipts and payments whereby you may see that there 
 remains about 40/. which you had of me at your going over, which as I 
 alway intended it for your good so would I not now wish you to be 
 hindered in the repayment thereof but as you shall well find yourself 
 able and not to make more haste of it than you may with good speed to 
 the rest of your estate. I have sent you also a copy of your rental . . . 
 not to the worth of the land . . . Some are wealthy and able and from 
 them I cannot extort it because no man will take it against their wills : 
 others are very poor and are borne withal for charity and clamour. 
 Some have more will than means to effect it and they pay for it. Ii 
 some course could be thought on to take the whole into your own hands 
 one year, or the best pasture, you might let them then as pleased your- 
 self; and that is it I would gladly speak with you about, for without 
 that you shall hardly do any more good. Thus with ray heartiest 
 commendations and my wife's being both desirous to see you and hear 
 from yourself how you have brooked your travels, I commit you to 
 God. 
 
 Good brother, but that you are a great stranger I would not bestow com- 
 mendations of you because you will not come among us into this country 
 but yet I hope for all this to see you here at Trusley very shortly or else 
 at your peril. Your assured loving sister Elizabeth Coke." 
 
 1597, Cambridge. George Coke to his brother John Coke. 
 
 "Nunc silent omnia, frater, rursus peractis tandem comitiis. Quorum 
 faciem si desideras en tibi corona Academica plus solito celebrem 
 generosa affluentia tain foeminarum aspectricium copia refertam et 
 comptam quam virorum gravitate ot favore munitam et sustentatam 
 turn denique nobilissimorum Essexiie et Rutlandise Comitum gloriosis- 
 simo conspectu et splendore illustratam quorum quidem laudes et 
 encomia al> Academicis nostris non vere possum commemorare." The 
 letter mentions Sutton of King's as proctor; Stanton of John's as 
 orator; Branthwaite and JosephHall of Emmanuel and Sharton of Trinity 
 as taking part. " Caput nunc vino madidum eo onere se levari cupit quo 
 novissime gravaretur. Postridie Comitiorum frater tuus tui amantis- 
 simus. 
 
 [c. 1597.] Gregory Milner to John Coke, at the Court. 
 
 If you measure my love to you by ecremoninl letters, either in your 
 travel or since your welcome return, I confess I come short in account. 
 ... I received your loving letter of the 13th of September on 
 
 u 2
 
 20 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokt mss. the behalf of your youngest brother whose preferment with one of my 
 own I indifferently tendered to the Electors to accept either of then* 
 at their choice. . . . My hope hath been ever since your return 
 to see you at Cambridge, where you have many friends, and amongst 
 the rest shall be not least welcome to my poor self, who am your 
 successor jointly with jour old friend Mr. Cole in your old(?) which 
 we wish and desire you to visit. 
 
 1598, July 31. Embden. William Start to John Coke at Mr. 
 Hammond's house in Broad Street in London. 
 
 Your letter of 2Sth May was brought me the 16th of July by the post 
 of Middleburg, it had been opened. You departed from Regensburg 
 without giving Mr. Granger knowledge whither you intended to travel. 
 The matter in hand at your being in Regensburg is since brought to 
 effect and hath dangerously disordered the traffic of our company. The 
 Hanses are in parle at Lubeck. You have heard of the King of Poland's 
 preparations about Danlzig which now are said to be in readiness for his 
 passage into Sweden. Our Grave and his eldest son entertain divers 
 bands of footmen which lie dispersed in their several castles and here 
 and there among their boors. Complaints thereof are brought unto the 
 Empei'or, but no redress from him. Death of Mr. Gilpin. Money due 
 to Mr. Coke. 
 
 1598, September 1. Derribas. A Bartolome Diaz Soldado en el 
 Presidio de Sant Joan de Puerto Rico. (A Spanish letter.) 
 
 1598, October 2. Foxholes. John Palmer to John Coke at Court 
 with Mr. F. Grevill. 
 
 Holding the livings of Eskrigge and South Somercotes, he justifies his 
 conduct to Mr. Coke and his patron. 
 
 1598, November 7. Acquittance to Mr. Coke for Tillington rent 
 due to Fellows of Trinity College, Cambridge, signed Fra : Milner, 
 Bursar. 
 
 1598. Charles Lord Willoughby (of Farham), Sir Edward Dymoke 
 and Sir Anthony Thorold to the Lord Burghley. 
 
 A certificate to the Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire what course we, 
 your Lordship's deputies, do mean to take in executing the Council's 
 letters. 
 
 1. First to write to all the captains before appointed in this shire both 
 
 for horsemen and footmen forthwith to put themselves in 
 readiness with their lieutenants and other their officers to be fully 
 furnished with all things warlike, and ready to go to the field 
 upon every sudden attempt. 
 
 2. Item : to write presently to the captains and justices of peace 
 
 inhabiting in the compass of every session within our commission 
 to give great charge and special commandment to the chief 
 constables of every wapentake, speedily to warn all the inhabitants 
 of every town within the same wapentake to put all the arms and 
 weapons, as well private as common wherewith at the last 
 musters they were charged to be now in full and perfect readiness 
 to be shewed before us. 
 
 3. Item : to command and warn all the persons charged with lances, 
 
 light horses, pistols, petronels, and muskets, to have and put the 
 same in like readiness before Midsummer next coming with the 
 riders' armour, and furniture for the same. 
 
 4. Item : to have a review so shortly as we may after your Lordship's 
 
 pleasure known of all persons charged and appointed the last 
 year to serve as well on horseback as on foot either with pommon
 
 niSTOKlCAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 21 
 
 or private armour, and to see all wants and defects forthwith rj 0KE jjss 
 supplied as well in men and horses as in armour and weapon. 
 
 All which reviews we mean to take in several and convenient 
 places for the ease of the country. And then to certify the num- 
 ber of all persons able to serve, both armed and unarmed, with 
 the whole number of pioneers, carts, and carriage?, and of horses 
 for speedy carrying of men armed to the places of within 
 
 this shire. 
 
 5. Item : for powder and match commanded to be provided in this 
 
 shire for a store or staple, we do think partly for the easing of 
 the three poor towns heretofore in our opinions overcharged, 
 videl 1 Lincoln, Boston, and Grimsby, but chiefly for the readier 
 serving of the shot appointed to serve in every part of this shire 
 near unto the place where they do inhabit to charge every market 
 town in this shire according to their ability to provide a certain 
 proportion of powder and match. 
 
 6. Item : to appoint all the beacons in this shire to be watched and 
 
 guarded in places usual, And certain persons in market towns, 
 thoroughfares and alehouses to have regard to apprehend Jesuits 
 seminaries and such other evil affected persons as shall spread 
 report or utter any seditious or false rumours, reports, or tales 
 tending to move sedition or to discourage or terrify her Majesty's 
 good subjects. 
 
 7. Item: to appoint certain justices and gentlemen of good credit dwell- 
 
 ing near the sea coast in this shire if any likelihood of attempt by 
 the enemy to land in those parts shall be seen or appear, forthwith 
 to cause the beacons to be fired and to send present intelligence to 
 the captain, and justices thereabout to come presently with the 
 whole force of that part of the country to withstand and defend 
 the same and impeach their landing by all such good means and 
 policies as they can devise. 
 
 8. Item : if the enemy shall happen there to land with greater power 
 
 and force than our country shall be able to impeach and with- 
 stand then to appoint certain justices and gentlemen of good 
 account and fit for that purpose to keep certain straits as long as they 
 shall be able and then upon notice or sign given by some of us your 
 Lordship's deputies the captains and all other to repair to the 
 same straits for the defence of the same straits so well as they 
 may until greater power shall be appointed by her Majesty or 
 the Lords of her Highness Privy Council to come to their aid. 
 
 9. Item : for maintenance of peace and suppressing of all great riots 
 
 and rebellions in this country we your Lordship's deputies will 
 God willing do our best endeavours. 
 
 Powder. Match. 
 
 Civitas Lincoln 
 
 - 
 
 3 partes of one 
 
 last 
 
 - 
 
 3 cwt. 
 
 Boston 
 
 - 
 
 40/. 
 
 worth 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 10/. worth. 
 
 Grantham 
 
 - 
 
 20/. 
 
 worth 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 5/. worth. 
 
 Stamford 
 
 . 
 
 20 marks worth 
 
 
 - 
 
 5 marks worth 
 
 Great Grimsby 
 
 30/. 
 
 worth 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 5/. worth. 
 
 Donington 
 
 - 
 
 3/. 
 
 . 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 13*. Ad. 
 
 Spalding 
 
 - 
 
 5/. 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 26s. 8<f. 
 
 Sleeford 
 
 - 
 
 40*. 
 
 . 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 10*. 
 
 Burne 
 
 . 
 
 30*. 
 
 _ 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 5s. 
 
 Deeping 
 
 - 
 
 30*. 
 
 . 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 OS. 
 
 Gainsborowe - 
 
 5/. worth 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 26*. Sd.
 
 22 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 
 
 Coke MSS. Powder. Match. 
 
 Caster 
 
 . 
 
 30*. 
 
 Kirton 
 
 - 
 
 4l. 
 
 Brigg 
 
 - 
 
 40s. 
 
 Markett Rayson 
 
 41. 
 
 Horncastle 
 
 - 
 
 31. 
 
 Tattershall 
 
 . 
 
 30s, 
 
 Spillesby 
 
 - 
 
 40s, 
 
 Alford 
 
 - 
 
 41. 
 
 Lowth 
 
 . 
 
 51. 
 
 Barton 
 
 - 
 
 41. 
 
 1598-9, January. " The particulars of the charge of grounding one of 
 Her Majesty's ships . . 95 00 00." (Signed) Henry Palmer. 
 
 1599, May 11. Brill. William Bonyngton (his cousin) to John 
 Coke at Mr. Grevill's Chamber in Essex House. 
 
 Mr. Gilpin hath been these 6 or 7 months in a languishing disease. 
 Some men of worth -wish you his successor. The place is of great 
 credit, wherein a man furnished with good gifts may do his prince and 
 country very good services and the pay is good, unto which by Mr. 
 Grevill's good help you might attain. 
 
 1599, June 6. Trusley. Francis Coke to John Coke at Mr. 
 Grevill's lodgings in Essex House in the Strand. 
 
 Brother Robert long agone weary of the country is now come up to 
 London to seek his fortune in some course of life, and surely for that 
 his mind serveth him not to any country courses and that he being as 
 it were distracted can apply himself to no manner of study to better 
 himself any way, I for my part thought it not good to stay him any 
 longer here lest his persistent lingering should grow to a habit and 
 make him never apt for any pains. I have given him in his purse 8/. 
 and at Michaelmas his annuity. His nag is his own, he may sell him. 
 ... I look now that he live of his own. I do him no wrong. ... I 
 will hope the best and will be glad to hear of his welfare and now let 
 him trust to himself. . . . 
 
 1599, June 28. The Brill. Sir Edward Conway to Mr. Coke. Tells 
 him he will serve his brother whom he will recommend to the Governor. 
 
 1599, August 14. Triumph at the Ness. Thomas Norreys to Foulke 
 Grevill, Treasurer of Her Majesty's Navy, at EsEex House. 
 
 Describes trial of sailing of his ship with the Elizabeth, the Ark, 
 the Defiance, the Foresight, and the Merhoneur. We have entered 
 in our ships book 450 men, so as when your own company comes 
 and the trumpets, musicians, surgeons, gunners, and carpenters come 
 I trust we shall be fully furnished. Our sea victuals shall not begin 
 till Monday at the soonest, for until then we have warrant for so many 
 as are in our ships. 
 
 1599, August 18. Westminster. Secretary Robert Cecil. 
 
 Minute from the Lords to the Commissioners of Musters in Dorset. 
 We are very sorry to undertand the little care and regard that hath been 
 taken for the guarding and defence of the town and haven of Wey- 
 mouth in this time of the great danger of the enemy's attempt, who as 
 you cannot but have understood is provided with a great navy to invade 
 this realm, And therefore we require you to take order that one thousand 
 of the best armed, trained, and ablest men of that county of Dorset may 
 be quartered and placed as near as may be to the same port, so as they
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 23 
 
 may be ready upon all occasions to join with them of the town for the Coke MSS. 
 
 repulsion of the enemy in case he shall attempt that place. For the 
 
 better effecting whereof you shall also be careful to appoint of the most 
 
 skilful persons you have in the wars to be the leaders of the same forces. 
 
 And hereof we require you not to fail as you tender Her Majesty's 
 
 service >nd wiH avoid her offence. 
 
 1599, August 20. " The present state of the Army and of their pay." 
 The number of Foot whereupon this Army was to have been com- 
 pounded, and which were come to the place of their Rendezvous were 
 1800 [18,000 ?] besides the 3,000 of London : whereof there hath been 
 discharged by his Lordship without any charge to her Majesty the 
 number of 11,600, and so at this time there remaineth only in pay 6,400, 
 which by the day for their wages cometh to 246/. 17*. Sd. The 6,400 
 at their discharge are to have conduct money, Avhich, being esteemed at 
 a week's wages, for that 4,000 of them dwell far off as in Suffolk and 
 Norfolk cometh to 1728. 3. 8. 
 
 The bands of Horse besides the voluntaries, according to the number 
 they were directed to send up, came up to 1,450: whereof there have 
 been already discharged 220. Of the rest his Lordship hath already 
 given order for the discharge of 500, with conduct to tour days : and 
 now all the rest of the said horses being 730, are to receive pay for six 
 days and conduct at six days, because these horses are of the countries 
 most remote. 
 
 The whole charge of horse and foot is in wages 2,409/. 6s. 8d., and 
 in conduct 2,206/. 3s. More to the captains in reward, 300/. Total, 
 -1.915/. 9s. 8d. 
 
 1599, August 22. John Coke's "Journal of the voyage to sea" on 
 board a ship in a fleet cruising about Margate and the Downs. Spanish 
 ships being reported to be in the Sleeve, and 6 Spanish Galleys with 
 treasure being reported to be coming to the Low Countries. 
 
 1599, August 22. Trinity College, Cambridge. Gregory Milner to 
 Thomas Coke at my Lord of Shrewsbury's house in Broad Street, or to 
 John Coke at the Court. 
 
 I am sorry occasion is offered to write at this time by the untimely 
 death of your dear brother, my loving friend, Mr. Philip Coke, who, 
 sickening the 12th or 13th of this instant, ended his life the 21st of the 
 same in great weakness, patience, faith, and hope of everlasting life. 
 He stood here indebted to divers honest neighbours and friends. You 
 would be pleased to administer such implements as he hath left for dis- 
 charge of the same ; and if any defect be to supply his debts of your 
 brotherly kindness amongst you all wherein I hope your eldest brother 
 will be desirous considering this conscionable act is the last duty he re- 
 quired of him. His goods are in safe custody for your disposition. And 
 for his funeral we shall see all things done as is meet. 
 
 1599, October 15. Linden. William Start to John Coke, Deputy 
 Treasurer of Her Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Intelligence concerning war between Turkey and the Emperor. 
 
 1599, November 3. Endorsed by Coke : " Charles, Mr. Langford's 
 report of the allowance of officers in the Charles in the time of Mr. 
 Boroughs since her new building whereupon the Lord Admiral's letter 
 is grounded." 
 
 1599, November 5. The Court at Richmond. Lord Admiral Not- 
 tingham to Sir H. Palmer, knt., Mr. Foulke Grevill, Mr. John Trevor, 
 &C, principal officers of Her Majesty's Navy.
 
 24 HISTORICAL MANUSCRfPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. Allowance of officers in the Charles pinnace to be according to the 
 
 rates since her last new building. 
 
 (c. 1599), July 2. c , st. v. Paris, chez l'enseigne du mouton blanc 
 presle College de Montagne. E. Naunton to John Coke. 
 
 I have word sent by some of my friends that certain letters sent 
 by them to me have been intercepted, which makes me fear that some 
 of yours may be miscarried among the rest. I thank you 1,000 for 
 your good advices and encouragements touching my letters elsewhere. 
 But when I see the foundations of my poor hopes and credit thereabout 
 to shake under me quicquid jam superstruxero corruet. For want of 
 virtues to allege I must produce my faults, my foolish stomach which 
 hath always been too great to give me leave to fawn, where I did not 
 honour. The articles of Roane (Rouen) are not yet in print no nor in 
 any vigour at all for ought I can learn. This bearer hath promised 
 me to look out a written copy of them for you if it is to be had. 
 
 (c. 1599). Very rough draft of J. Coke of a letter ' : to Mr. Naunton " 
 abroad. 
 
 You have heard of the last secession of the E. (Earl of Essex) 
 which continued till the death of the Lord Treasurer. I know not 
 what hopes changed his counsel. Soon after he relented, hastened 
 his peace, resumed his offices without further struggling: reconciled to 
 his opposite, made sure for the Mastership of the wards which the voice 
 of all the land bestowed long ago upon him, and if without it as the 
 world was possessed he would undertake no service yet now he is content 
 to cipitulate no longer and to give over all Court hopes and to prepare 
 himself for Ireland, whither he is sent to make an end of all these 
 wars. In my opinion you shall do much better to settle yourself in 
 France till the weather clear up and the season be warmer. If your 
 satience of that people make you desire home remember you bring no 
 other desire with you but to live private and desire nothing. We hear 
 much of Spanish preparations but the ground of our intelligence is 
 the Exchange and rumour. I long to hear how you find the State 
 where you are changed of late : what opinion the world hath of the 
 new King of Spain'sf sufficiency; what shall become of the Cardinal 
 Duke : such other not occurrents but divinations which my confidence 
 in your love and judgment maketh me look for at your hands. 
 
 (1599 about). November 30 stylo vestro, Paris. R. Naunton to 
 John Coke. 
 
 I see no footstep of haste in all your last letter of the 20th of October 
 till you named haste in the latter end of it. I must begin of haste and 
 end in haste, it being all this while past till now before I could be 
 resolved of my Lord's return, and my haste thereupon being such 
 to be gone from hence as I now am fain to send on this messenger 
 a-gallop to beg letters of recommendation to otherwhere (as I foretold 
 you I would) and to prevent new remoras that may still detain me here. 
 Therefore you will now look for a much hastier answer from me than 
 I received from you by this bearer. I find by your own account that 
 you have received all mine, but whereas you writ of three or four sent 
 to me before this your last I must tell you that this last made the third 
 which came to my hands from you since your arrival in England, of 
 which three this bearer Constant hath delivered me two, and the first 
 came within one inclosed of Mr. Eversfeld's, of whose return and of 
 Mr. Henry Wotton's I would (by the way; be glad to hear well of by 
 
 t Phillip III. suceeded in 1598.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 25 
 
 your next. I have received in this former your good advices con- CoKE Mss 
 cerning my time spending in Italy. I must now crave the like for 
 
 Oermany, through which I mean to return cursorily if the passage be 
 free for our nation after these universal scandals. Ail your discourse of 
 our voyage and of your present affairs there I must answer as hearty as 
 hasty. I want as well understanding as time to requite you with the 
 like of our state here. As I said in my last so I must still. The con- 
 clusion of our peace with Spa[in] depends upon your resolutions there. 
 The King of Spain's late infortunes and insuccesses both here in the 
 Low Countries and at sea they seem to have made him as hungry after 
 a peace with France as he is thirsty of a revenge on England. The 
 Cardinal d'Austrich is said to make fair offers of whatsoever his master 
 holds in France without any demolition at all. And Mercury is pleased 
 to submit himself and all his hold in Brittany so he may continue to be 
 governor there still. The King here must not hear of any such ear till 
 he have drawn a new subsidy Dut of his parliament by creating more 
 alternative officers of justice. The pretence for which subsidy must be 
 this expedition into Brittany, for assistance Avhereunto the Protestants 
 must be appeased with declarations of the King's favour for their con- 
 tentment for the time. But when this subsidy shall be levied Mercury 
 is like enough to have a favourable hearing, and then the Protestants' 
 satisfaction is like to be less after their service shall be less necessary. 
 We may threaten you with our having this peace in our own hands, and 
 that we have great reason to entertain it all to draw greater bids from 
 you for following our advantage by war. But the truth is we dare not 
 entertain it to build upon without your concurrence and the Low 
 Countries. Our reason is that the most of our Catholics will still be 
 at the Spaniards' devotion for a few doubloons to blow the coal afresh 
 whensoever he will have them. Then what avails a peace of wax and 
 paper with Spain, when his ducats shall set us together by the ears at 
 home ? On the other side our Protestants will be as ready to stir afresh 
 on the first scent of such a suspicious union with Spain, when the 
 Queen of England and the States shall be left out. Wherefore we look 
 for Commissioners from both you and them to treat of this Aveighty 
 matter with more deliberation. Meanwhile we call our Councils 
 together to ponder all things advisedly, to reform all abuses of our 
 household expenses, our pensions, and other finances. We take diet and 
 make it an entrance of a new state more stately than hath been accus- 
 tomed in the familiarities of war. We make our Constable a Maire de 
 Palais postliminio, and let none come to us but by his admission. We 
 will not allow every man to see our recreations with our mistress qua 
 nunc parturiente nascetur pulchra praeclarus origine Caesar. We will 
 also bestow our sister at length upon the Marquis Depontanus. This 
 is all I can yet tell you for the present. To-morrow it may be will 
 alter our resolutions. Your fear of the Pope's own employment about 
 Ferrara, we would be well content to divert these storms into Italy or to 
 the Northward, so we, might enjoy the eases and pleasures of peacr 
 ourselves and establish a sovereign authority at home. I lmve written 
 a letter to Mr. Greville as plainly and truly as I do love and reverence 
 him. In it I have enclosed a map of the siege at Amiens and a com- 
 pendium of their principal occurrents in the siege. I have referred it 
 to your discretion whether you will have Mr. Totsfeld or this bearer to 
 deliver it. I pray advertise me how it is accepted. 1 hear my Lord 
 suited three several petitions and was denied them all by Her Majesty : 
 that he is therefore retired into physic. Send me a little of your light 
 to clear tbese mists and bestow upon me now all the cost you will
 
 26 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 afford nic till ray return. Jam profecturi animus Italiam versus, a 
 reditu istius nuncii sequetur (uti spero) corpus. 
 
 (1600 about.) November 9 style yours. Paris, chez # Madame de 
 Monceaux au Faubourg St. Germain rue de petit Lion. R. Naunton 
 to J. Coke. 
 
 As you were of the last to whom at my parting hence I bade fare- 
 well, so must you have your place amongst the first whom my pen is to 
 visit upon my return. My want of time will well excuse my want of 
 matter which I have uot wherewith to trouble you out of my late 
 running journey. And for our French occurrents I am yet a greater 
 stranger to them than you that lie further off. I have not yet for- 
 gotten your kind and faithful advices wherewith you concluded your 
 last. I will thank you for them again and again. Our friendship of 
 itself is sufficient to embolden me to play the downright beggar with you 
 for more of your like friendly instructions. 
 
 1599-1600, January 6. Groeningen (where the deadly contagion hath 
 driven us for a time). William Hart to John Coke. 
 
 1599-1600, March 13. Steelyard. John Illing to John Coke, Deputy 
 Treasury of Her Majesty's Navy at Deptford. 
 
 For the pay of his brother to be continued at Portsmouth during his 
 service in Ireland. 
 
 1600, April 13. Francis Cuke to J. Coke, at Mr. GrevilPs house 
 at Deptford. 
 
 "I am providing homewards, and I am exposed by reason of some 
 charges unlooked for to assay your purse for 40s. or 50s. until I can 
 this next term send it. I pray you tell Brother Thomas that I thought 
 I should have seen him here, but now I cannot at this time." 
 
 1600, May and August. Draft of two letters in Latin from Fulke 
 Greville to Nicholas Bernard, the first in some other writing corrected 
 by J. Coke, the second in J. Coke's writing. 
 
 " Quod de noblissimo tuo invento ad me scripseris singularem tibi vir 
 ornatissime habeo gratiarn." "rem communicavi cum Thalassiarcho 
 nostro cui scias ita mirifice probari ut dubium non sit quin apud nos 
 dignitatem et mercedem amplissimam sis consecuturus." " Plurimum 
 tuanostraque putabam interesse carissime Bernarde ut in Angliam tran- 
 sies Quia et nos rectius te dooente artem tuam natoriai.i addisceremus." 
 " Charissimo meo patrueli subprefecto Brillensi hujus negotii curam im- 
 pense studioseque commendavi." 
 
 1600, May 11. News from Rome, Venice, Cologne. This letter is 
 endorsed with sailing directions for entering the Maas, signed W. 
 Bonington. (No address.) 
 
 1600, May 20. Emden. William Hart to John Coke. 
 
 1600, July 14. Emden. William Hart to John Coke. 
 
 1600, July 15. Brill. William Bonington to John Coke at Dept- 
 ford, or else at Mr. Grevill's chamber at Essex House. 
 
 The manner of your brothers [Robert Coke] death, as far as I can 
 learn, was in this sort. To show his willingness and forwardness to do 
 service, he advanced three ranks further than where he was placed, and 
 there received his dealh with divers others of my Lord's gentlemen, 
 being not presently slain but sore wounded. He and oneRossiter offered 
 a ransom to the enemy, hut could not be accepted. I hope the Almighty 
 hath with the wings of his love overshadowed all his transgressions.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 27 
 
 1600, July 30. Sheffield Lodge. Thomas Coke to John Coke. 
 
 Good brother, your letters of the 30th of June I received at Welbeck, 
 26th July, and this day have sent them to cousin Bonnington. I 
 thank you heartily for them, and touching our brother's death, I govern 
 myself by your rules, humbly thanking God for having secured us from 
 more uncomfortable hazards of his life and for the rest of us exerting my 
 heart to attend his divine pleasure. I hope our brother died a Christian 
 since he died so good a soldier. Ille nunc vacat, nos inilitamus. All 
 our friends are well. I write in haste and pray you to write when your 
 opportunity sorteth. Sister Dorothy and myself pray that you may be 
 ever happy. 
 
 1600, August 7. Advice to Mr. Grevill as to the office of Treasurer 
 of the Navy. Not signed. 
 
 " So long as the Treasurer's account is thus subject to the officers 
 and they withal permitted to make provisions for the Navy, either the 
 Treasurer shall not pass his account or else shall be forced if the rest 
 be corrupt to conspire with them all to make prey of the Queen as they 
 have done heretofore." 
 
 1600, September 22. Croydon. Dr. W. Barlow, Dean of Lincoln, 
 afterwards Bishop of Rochester, to Mr. Coke. 
 Asking that Mr. Grevill will commend him to Her Majesty. 
 
 (1600 ?) Latter part of a narrative of a compaign of the Lord 
 Deputy (Mountjoy ?) against the Earl of Tyrone near Faughera 
 (Faughert in county Louth ?). 
 
 English officers mentioned, Sir Richard Morrison, Capt. Longford, 
 Sir Samuel Bagnall, Sir Christopher St. Lawrence, Sir Thomas Bourg, 
 Sir Henry Folliatt, Sir William Godolfyn, Capt. Josias Bodley, Sir 
 Oliver Lambert, Capt. William Harvye, Capt. Thomas Gaynsford, Sir 
 Charles Percy, Sir Robert Lovell (slain). 
 
 About 1600. Fulke Grevyl. No address. 
 
 I do very much thank you for the care and pains you have taken 
 in all my businesses and presume they will prosper much the better when 
 they are overseen with honest and wise eyes as I hold yours to be. If 
 we live we will perish or prosper together, for I do hold you dear and 
 you shall find it at least as much as a cross fortune of mine can show it 
 to you and to the world. Sir John Fortescue doth look for my brother 
 Varney this term, and I shall be very glad of any necessary occasion that 
 draws him up ; because his company is ever welcome to me, and I will 
 then pay him all the thanks I owe him and her in words or deeds as he 
 shall find cause to use me. In the meantime commend me to him since 
 the suddenness of this dispatch loves ceremonies no better than I do. I 
 wrote to you concerning my Lady Basherville's horses. She took 
 offence at the first information and I am fain to deal tenderly with her 
 young things now. She is well pleased that Daniel Briggs do sell them. I 
 pray you let care be taken that no haste inconveniences her in the price 
 till they be fat and marketable ; some order may be taken by Daniel 
 that they may be bestowed with the least inconvenience to his common- 
 wealths, wherein I allow his care, and only desire there be an equal care 
 
 taken of things that are hers because she my tenure by 
 
 courtesy. I hope the latter end of my life will be more free and 
 absolute, for hitherto I have drawn my breath by no other tenure but 
 multiplicity of respects. I writ only a letter to Doctor Raleigh because 
 I am weary of the rest whether they be absent or no. 1 presume you
 
 28 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION'. 
 
 shall find them and him better inclined than ever because I have since 
 your going down gotten Her Majesty to be pleased to confirm their land 
 to them by a new grant, the old be imperfect and subject to the cavils 
 of concealments and many other quiddities of law. Therefore with this 
 encouragement I refer all to you and though your journey work, nothing 
 but an encouragement of their good affections and a resolution of the 
 course they mean to hold when they shall come together yet it is a good 
 work and we shall the better understand one another by it. In my 
 other Court business I have moved the Queen and find her as gracious 
 as I can desire but the lame must have an angel's help into the Pool of 
 Silo which I lack notwithstanding my Lord of Essex deals clearly and 
 kindly with me which makes whatsoever comes else the lighter, fir my 
 eyes have ever been upon the goodwill and not the power of my friends 
 and I have both strength and kindness enough to suffer with them that 
 can love. I hear nothing when Daniel means to come up for my stalland 
 and the rest of my mares but whensoever it is, good Mr. Coke, let him 
 bring the writs with him, if your leisure would serve I would gladly 
 know by what right I as master of the do hold the Corse and 
 
 Cannock churchyard, not that any question is made of it by the lady 
 but yet I like to understand my strength and weakness clearly iu all I 
 hold. The lady hath written to Mr. Dalrigcourt about the letting of 
 the herbage of Wedgnock now the enclosures are down and this is the 
 time for my brother Varney to hold the Corse agreed on by the 
 instructions I gave you at your going hence ; because I must be tenant 
 to it and would gladly keep the even way between doing wrong either 
 to her or to myself We look for Mr. Secretary every day and I am 
 glad for himself and not ill content to see an end of this irresolution 
 which my business rests in. Good Mr. Coke come as well instructed 
 for Wedgnock as you can because my state both in esse and in expectancy 
 is known to you and all the healths and diseases of it and I presume 
 the place. Mr. Dalrigcourt and my brother will be able to arm it every 
 way for the worst; and the best is s--?on provided for. This haste may 
 make me forget something which with the rest I do recommend to your 
 care and judgement. Commend me I pray you to all the little ones. I 
 joy in them and by my own defects know haw happy their youths may 
 be to them that are set young in a right way. I am glad my father 
 hath feeling of his estate because at those years it is part of a man's 
 reputation, and it was mischance that his excellent nature was not ever 
 trained up in the best company because ever since I knew him he 
 hath been wise with the wise and provident among good husbands but 
 pleasure is the commonest end of men and the greater tide hath carried 
 him that way. Do all duties for me and give yourself thanks. 1 am 
 heartily glad of my father's recovery, and after the term hope with my 
 brother Varney to wait upon him. From the Court this Good Friday 
 instantly upon the receipt of your letter the carrier then returning the 
 carrier is paid twelve pence. I am glad John Powell comes up for we 
 shall many ways need him. Good sir let care be had of the rents at 
 Cannock for nothing must there be left to courtesy. 
 
 1600-1, January 23. Trusley. Francis Coke to John Coke at Mr. 
 Grevill's house at Deptford 
 
 I find now that you have obtained that which you have always 
 courted, namely, great and continual businesses and little leisure to 
 attend unnecessary matters . . . we could be foolishly in joy with your 
 business that draweth you from all writing to your friends here, for from 
 a loving remembrance of us I know nothing can draw you.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 29 
 
 1600-1, January 26. Harrold's Park. Elizabeth Grevilc to John 
 Coke. 
 
 Well may you say these are shows without substance, or like fair 
 blossoms fruitless, but let this suffice I will give place to none that 
 shall wish you better than myself. Help my man choose a hogshead 
 of wine for me, it might be your fiiend might taste it. My desire is 
 to have of the best and to pay the best price for It. 
 
 1600-1, February 19. Westminster. Arraignment of Robert Earl 
 of Essex and Henry Earl of Southampton, written by John Coke. 
 
 1600-1, February 25. Account of the Earl of Essex's execution at 
 the Tower. In an old hand, the paper endorsed in the writing of Mr. 
 Coke, Vice Chamberlain, 1707-1727. 
 
 1601, April 1, London. Draft of a letter from J. Coke to Sir 
 Wm. Godolphin. 
 
 I doubt not but you have heard the echo of our tragedies as we do at 
 large hear the discourses of your prosperous and honourable exploits 
 which may make jealousy confident in the dangerous styles of merit and 
 fame. I pray God only that mercy and truth may still foster and sup- 
 port our peace. Good Sir be pleased to entertain this gentleman and 
 myself in the number of those that desire to do you both honour and 
 service. 
 
 1601, June 10. Kampton. Francis Pussy to his brother-in-law 
 John Coke at London. 
 
 I would some good wind would this summer blow you into the country, 
 and then I hope we should see you at Rampton, where I assure you 
 both to my mother your sister and myself you shall be as welcome as 
 to any brother you have. I pray you if my brother Thomas be at 
 London commend us unto him, and tell we hope this long vacation 
 will afford him some leisure to visit his friends. 
 
 1601, June 11. London. John Coke to George Coke, Fellow of 
 Pembroke Hall in Cambridge. 
 
 I have received from you three several packets of your theological 
 exercises ; and with my kindest and heartiest thanks for them I 
 acknowledge that I have received by them both comfort and profit. 
 For believe me it is no small satisfaction to a man estranged and banished 
 from the hopes and ambitions of learning to see them transplanted into 
 another branch of his own tree, and to prosper there where his affection 
 hath settled his nearest interest. . . . The matter yet which giveth me 
 most contentment is your judgment and sound resolution in matters of 
 such importance and doubt, specially that image of your mind and 
 conscience that hath carried you through these holy things with 
 reverence and fear. . . . When I can give you no help in direction or 
 counsel I will do it in prayers ; by which I leave you and the blessing of 
 your studies to the Almighty. ... I hear nothing of Mr. Curwen 
 since his first | romises, and I should be loath he should put me to a 
 sudden resolution. 
 
 1601, June 15. Middlefon. Mary Fulwood to her brother John 
 Coke at London. 
 
 The earnest desire I have to see you hath put me in good hope I 
 should before now. I wish some happy occasion would send you 
 amongst us or us near you, lest long absence breed too much forget- 
 fulness amongst us, which were well-nigh if natural affection were not oft 
 moving us to be mindful one of another, which I pray God we may ke 
 in our prayers one for another whilst we are in this vale of misery. . . . 
 My husband hath had a suit in the Duchy these four years. . . . My
 
 30 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 brother George Fulwood doth follow it, if your leisure would serve you 
 so much as to have gone and talked with him, and by his counsel to 
 have made some move to the judge of the Court in our behalf, you might 
 do us great pleasure. Let me entreat you to bespeak and send me down 
 a beaver hat, either black or some sad colour near to it, either shorn or 
 unshorn which you think the best and of what fashion you best like, 
 some pretty slight band agreeable to the hat. I know not the price of 
 them, but I think some four nobles. 
 
 1601, June 29. London. Robert Booth to John Coke. 
 
 Sir Francis Vere being commanded to advertise Her Majesty if the 
 Archduke did stir to bring relief to Berke (Bergen) on the Rhine did 
 signify that he sat still. Here are made three Councillors, the Earl of 
 Shrewsbmy, the Earl of Worcester, and Sir John Stanhope, whose 
 good fortune hath added the Vice Chamberlainship. The sale goes 
 slowly forward, only Littleport and a small manor or two were bought 
 by one rich Sutton. For other lands no likelihood of any sale, especially 
 parks and castles, which must be surveyed before any grant will be 
 passed for them. Lord Willoughby at Berwick and Lord Norris are 
 both dead, the one a great commander, the other a great father of many 
 soldiers. 
 
 1601, August 10. The Court at Windsor. Foulke Grevyll to 
 John Coke. 
 
 The alarm of the Spaniards being at sea doth revive. The warrant I 
 have signed. My hand is so low as you may add or diminish as you 
 find convenient. You might spare Willis or Jackson to remain with me 
 here. 
 
 1601, August 13. Deptford. John Coke to Foulke Grevill at the 
 Court, 
 
 According to your letter by James Berott I have drawn two estimates. 
 The first for three ships to be borne upon the Narrow Seas. I prav 
 that my Lord Treasurer may be moved to pay now at his being at Court, 
 for if these ships come all in which are specified in the note we shall 
 press him for great sums soon after his return. I have taken order for 
 the speedy despatch of all things belonging to these ships. (Mr. Trevor, 
 Mr. Bright, Mr. Bush, Mr. Baker, Edward Faulkner, named as 
 officials). I wish we were resolved what stuff should make the sails, a 
 galley to be launched at Limehouse, and one at Deptford. The answers 
 to the objections against the privilege of white cloths are, in my opinion, 
 so slender that if my Lord had no other friends but his reasons it would 
 be no great matter to overthrow his patent. The clamours of the mer- 
 chants and dyers will confute him to better purpose than any other 
 verbal disputing. Your nephews here are all in good health, and apply 
 their books very hard. Your pigeons grow upon you to a great multitude, 
 and so a great and weekly charge. Now our news is that the Spaniards 
 are landed at Milford. Yesterday I writ by William Vyner. Upon 
 Saturday Mr. Willis will attend you at Court. 
 
 1601, August 21. Chatham. F. Trevor to Fulke Greville, 
 Treasurer of Her Majesty's Navy, and one of Her Majesty's Most 
 Honourable Privy Chamber. 
 
 The directions newly given for the " Rainbow " and ' Dreadnought " 
 will save her Majesty nothing of her stores hence for they are at sea. It 
 is now Saturday in the afternoon, to-morrow and Monday be play inn- 
 days. I am glad to perceive from Mr. Coke that he hatli hope of the 
 ordinary, these never satisfied caulkers were to seek me at Upnor yester-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 31 
 
 day, being solitarily withdrawn upon the death of one of my children. 
 I have deceived them with so many hopes as they will hardly believe me, 
 but I say you deceive me and the Exchequer you. Our great ships, as 
 the "Elizabeth," " Bear," "Triumph," together with the galley " Mer- 
 cury," are unransacked, which must be done before winter. I wish 
 there were another company of caulkers pressed and sent down, and a 
 skilful man commanded to follow them as Clat worthy doth his company. 
 At Michaelmas I wish them and all the rest discharged, and not one 
 carpenter or caulker kept in pay more than those that belong to the 
 ships ordinary. I must still mind you of our want of anchors and long 
 boats. 
 
 1601, September 3. Chatham. John Trevor to the Hon ble Mr. 
 Grevill, one of the gentlemen of the Queen's Majesty's Privy Chamber. 
 
 Asking fulfilment of a promise of a place for John Illing. 
 
 1601, October 11. The Court. Charles Howard, Earl of Nottingham, 
 Lord Admiral, to Fulke Greville, Esquire. 
 
 Good Fulke, I have written to the Masters of the Trinity, and unto 
 Pope, charging them upon their allegiance unto the Queen to use no 
 partiality in the pressing of such numbers of mariners for this fleet as 
 they should be commanded by yourself and the rest of the officers of the 
 Navy. I do require you that you make stay of all ships of the river, 
 not suffering any to depart before this fleet for Ireland be gone, and that 
 you cause all persons fit for the service to be impressed and in readiness 
 to attend the same upon pain of their lives. Touching the 400 soldiers 
 to be levied in London, and to go in this fleet order is taken with my 
 Lord Mayor that they shall be kept together. 
 
 1601, October 13. Puddles Wharf. Doctor Thomas Nevile to 
 
 This bearer, Thomas Abrye, waterman, hath a servant who was this 
 day pressed by the overseers of their Company to do service in one of 
 Her Highness' ships. He is my ordinary waterman. I would recom- 
 mend his desire for the release of his said servant unto your special 
 favour. Upon the like occasion of service he had one other servant 
 taken from him this summer. 
 
 1601, October 14. Trinity College. Andrew Downes to John Coke. 
 
 I may yet be so bold as to use Mr. Greville in a suit which if I could 
 obtain would be for my contentment so much that by the grace of God 
 it would settle my mind and state for ever in this world, and be ut vos 
 eruditi dicere soletis a mon gre. There is a place to be void in Eton 
 College which Mr. Chambers is to leave. If it would please Mr. Greville 
 to commend me to Mr. Savile, the Provost, for it I should have good 
 hope to get that. There is, as I have heard, in the statutes of that College 
 that if there be found any man in the land of any name or worth desti- 
 tute or wanting sufficient maintenance, special regard shall be had of 
 such an one, and under this pretence Dr. Whittaker came in. Mr. 
 Greville may urge that clause of the statute to Mr. Savile. Vides 
 vjX<kv e(f>' ZpavTw ppw'j). Sed hasc ad te. 
 
 1601, October 15. Glemharn. Thomas Walles alias Coke to Mr. 
 Hills. 
 
 As to good and bad ways of making sail cloth. For reformation of 
 abuses, some should be appointed to have the search of the looms of the 
 makers. 
 
 1601, November . Andrew Downes to Mr. Coke. 
 Has written to Mr. Savill (in Latin) in answer to his objections which 
 are frivolous, and to Mr. Grevill, as to au office in College.
 
 32 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokeJISS. 1601, December 13. Harold's Park. Elizabeth Grevile to John- 
 
 Coke at the Austin Friars. 
 
 It pleased you to make a motion to Mr. Grevile as concerning a lease 
 which one Mr. Swift held, and new his son would fain continue the- 
 same, but being as I hear in the country here not like to obtain it, and 
 you wishing Mr. Grevile to hearken unto it we have done so, and so> 
 far forth as we can learn if he or we were able to get a lease thereof to 
 that estate of which as I hear he hath already, I think then if all parties- 
 so liked it would prove a reasonable match for one of ours. We would 
 most willingly give any reasonable portion to any friend you have abouS 
 my Ld. Treasurer that would further us herein. If you hear any news- 
 from Ostend Mr. Grevile desireth vou will make him partake thereof. 
 If you will have my footman to attend you he shall. 
 
 1601. Henry Palmer and Peter Buck. 
 
 A note of such moneys as upon examination and signing of the 
 Ledger book of the Treasurer of the Navy's account for the year 1601 
 were only found unsolved and are included passed and allowed upon 
 that account. Names of ships Merhoneur, Triumph, Repulse, J Vast- 
 spite, Defiance, Garland, Quittance, Mercury, Lions Whelp, White 
 Bear, Hope, Mary Rose, Swiftsure, Foresight, Dreadnought, Crane, 
 two galleys, viz., La Superfativa, L'Advantagia. 
 
 1601. Note by J. Coke from Historia di Giovanni Antonio Sum- 
 monte Napolitano in Napoli appresso Gio Giacomo Carlino. 
 
 1601. Endorsed by J. Coke: "The account for the diet of Mr. 
 Verney's company for which he hath paid 28/., and more for ling 
 3/. 5*." 
 
 The account for Mr. Verney's children during their continuance at 
 Deptford, and for one week's diet at London. 
 
 The first week's charge began on Wednesday morning the 24th June, 
 and ended on Saturday 27th of the same, being for 40 meals amongst 
 them all did arise to 5d. per meal, in all 16s. 8d. 
 
 Meals varying between 3f</. and 6d. each. 
 
 # * # # 
 
 Twentieth week, ended 7th November, 65 meals at 5d. 
 
 About 1601, November 11. Barkway (between London and Cam- 
 bridge). R. Naunton to John Coke, at Sir F. Greville's house over 
 against Tottenham Cross, or in his absence thence at Sir F.'s house 
 at the Austinfriars. 
 
 Endorsed by J. Coke: " Mr. Naunton, from Barkway." 
 This morning between Waltham and Ware I met with young Mr. 
 who knew me, and undertook both to commend and 
 excuse me to Mr. Gr[eville] Verney. Yet my due care to satisfy both 
 Sir Fulke and him hath made me left by the way, and crave your 
 adviseder aid in such an office. For Sir Fulke I met Mr. Richardson, 
 who told me he was gone to London the same afternoon, and was to 
 return again to Tottenham the next morning, so as I had no reason to 
 seek him at Tottenham as I went, and the next morning at my return 
 you know he was not there. My haste in this journey was such as I 
 came forth without acquainting either Vice-Chancellor or College officer 
 which 1 could not do for ultra triduum, and much ado I shall have to get 
 home to be seen forthcoming this night which is my third. It will be a 
 piece of an excuse for my not seeking out Mr. Greville that my 
 abode in London afforded me not to wait upon his. Yet I must confess 
 I am far short of his courtesy who tendered me a kind journey of so 
 many more miles, which by reason of Mr. D. of Canterbury's abode
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 33 
 
 there I was the less unmannerly in . If his other prepara* Coke MSS 
 
 tions be ready I would not have him buy my thanks (which he hath 
 already as great as I can yield him) at so dear a rate, or think that I 
 can expect so troublesome a respect from him, unless he have to com- 
 mand me some other office which my own impotence forbids me to 
 apprehend. My best love and prayers shall attend him as full as many 
 others of his so many affectionate friends. I pray resolve him one spur 
 of my haste hence was a doubt he might call for me there, and will me, 
 which doubt I was all the apter to by reason I had no answer from him 
 to my last by the carrier's return. Cura me tueare diligenter in hoc 
 itinere ejusque. Vides iter ipsum celari non posse, Rescribe in 
 
 fraternis Tuo. 
 
 About 1601, November 29. Trinity Hall. R. Naunton to John 
 Coke, at Sir Fulke Greville's house over against the Cross at Tot- 
 tenham, or in his absence thence to be left for him with Mr. Samuel 
 Hopton at Sir Fulke Greville's house hard by the Austinfriars in 
 London. Indorsed by Coke : " Mr. Naunton from Trinity Hall." 
 
 Yesternight late I returned hither, and this morning I received yours 
 of the 20th. My success I cannot censure definitely without your con- 
 ference, but unless you come I confess very shortly I conceive all is 
 dashed. I expect my brother here every day who is to make a payment 
 to me here that deserves and imposes my strict attendance. Wherefore 
 I most earnestly entreat you to bestow this one day's journey on me out 
 of your right line in your way homeward. 
 
 1601-2, January 4. The Court, Whitehall. Foulke Grevyllto John 
 Coke. 
 
 After you went hence the last night I had some conference with 
 Mr. Secretary. If at six of the clock you be free I shall be very glad 
 to confer with you on some points wherein I have found difliculty, 
 without you I command nothing and therefore refer all till we meet. 
 
 1601-2. January 6. Kinsale. A. Ersfield, Captain in the Navy, to 
 the Honb le Foulke Grevill. 
 
 Since Tyrone's fatal day Don John offered a parley, which my Lord 
 accepted and within four days came to a composition that they should 
 depart, bag and baggage. The rebels are utterly forsaken of all aid 
 from the Spaniards and not able to make any head. O'Donnell is made 
 away for Spain, as we think. I do not think we have lost fewer than 
 3,000 men. By fight and hurts not above 300, all the rest by sickness. 
 I continue in the place of Surveyor of the Ordnance. 
 
 1601-2, January 8. London. Captain Charles Plessington. 
 Letter of Attorney to Mr. Coke and H. Plessington for the receipt of 
 money from the Treasurer of Ireland. 
 
 1601-2, January 24. Provisions wanting for the galleys of London. 
 
 1601-2, January 27. Draft in J. Coke's writing. 
 
 It pleased your Honour to require us the officers of the Admiralty 
 to examine the demands of Sir John Gilbert, knight, for tne charge of 
 a ship called the Refusal of Plymouth as lately employed in 
 Her Majesty's service upon the coast of Ireland ; we have accordingly 
 by way of estimate reduced the same to the ordinary rates allowed in 
 this office. Total to be paid to the Treasurer of the Navy for this 
 charge 175 "8 '6. 
 
 [Full particulars of allowance for pressing, daily pay of all grades, 
 victualling &c] 
 
 U 24963. C
 
 34 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokeMSS. 1601-2, February 13. Paper by J. Coke, endorsed by him. " Con- 
 siderations for the provisions of timber for Her Majesty's Navy." 
 
 1601-2, February 13. Paper by J. Coke endorsed by him. M An 
 
 estimate of the provisions of timber, plank, boards, treenails, &c. to be 
 
 maintained in store for Her Majesty's Navy, viz., for building 
 
 yearly - - - - 1 ship of 500 tons, 
 
 for repairing yearly in dry dock - 2 ships, 
 
 collected by me." 
 
 1601-2, February 17. Provision of timber how to be ordered. (Note 
 in J. Coke's hand). 
 
 1601-2, February 25. Cork. A. Ersfield, Captain in the Navy, to 
 J. Coke. 
 
 Now we have left not above 800 which are ready to be put away. 
 Don John must see the last man borne. My Lord had been gone 
 towards the North before this time if these fellows had been gone. 
 My company lieth at Durgarvan. 
 
 1601-2, March . Robert Cheke to John Coke. 
 
 The beginning of my vowed performance shall be in taking charge of 
 this young gentleman wherein if I resolved not upon my best care 
 assure yourself I woutd never undertake it, thereby to wrong so laudable 
 a knight, his father, and yourself so worshipful and good a friend. The 
 relict of my duty to yourself I must make up by vows and prayers. 
 
 1602, March 31. Peter Buck's offer for the making of flags and 
 ensigns. 
 
 1602, March 31. The true measures of the stone works in the 
 Dock head at Portsmouth taken by John Adie. 
 
 1602, April 12, Mansfield. Francis Dand to John Coke at London. 
 
 I was about Bartholomewtide last at London and then I enquired for 
 you at Mr. Greville's lodging. I long to hear of your health and 
 welfare which dearly to affect our old and true love justly occasions me. 
 I pray you if you come into the country let me see you at Mansfield 
 and make my house your home so long as your leisure may afford you 
 stay. I and my wife and four children live in health and after their 
 proportion of age and discretion do live to love Francis Dand and his 
 old and faithful friends such as is John Coke. Vale et me ut soles ama. 
 
 1602, April 16. The Brill. Sir Edward Conway to John Coke. 
 
 I had recommended the cause of Mr. Bonnington and the Governor(P) 
 approved all the liberty to him I would give him and I will give him all 
 that may be to his advantage. This bearer, Middleton, whom my cousin 
 Greville employed over I have furnished as possibly I could with an 
 interpreter. His satisfaction, he saith, is great in all points of his 
 instructions. My just and best endeavours are and shall ever be ready 
 servants in any business where my cousin Greville's ends or name is. 
 I will return the things he has given me in charge with all possible 
 speed that may be good speed. 
 
 1602, April 20. Catherine Hall. Doctor John Overall to John 
 Coke at Mr. Greville's house in Austin Friars. 
 
 I thank you most heartily for your great kindness and love in 
 remembering me and my business so carefully in my absence and 
 writing me so particularly of the success. I beseech you remember 
 my duty in the best manner with all true hearty and devoted affection 
 to the Right Honourable Mr. Greville. Little Domine is very well and 
 in philosophy up to the ears.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 35 
 
 1602, April 24. London. John Stretehay to John Coke. 
 Touching an anchor (of brandy ?) to come from Brest or Kochelle. 
 
 1602, May 4. Trusley. Francis Coke to J. Coke at the Austin 
 Friars in Broad Street. 
 
 Nothing but commendations occasioned by the fitness of the 
 messenger. 
 
 1602, May 5. Draft of John Coke's letter to Roger Manners 
 travelling into France. 
 
 "General heads of all things which travellers should observe and 
 may understand and remember better if they digest them in order and 
 lay them up in writing ready for all uses and occasions of life. My 
 love and caro of you would carry me further if I were not assured that 
 your industry and sufficiency will direct you better. 
 
 1602, May 19. Thomas Beech to John Coke in Fulke Greville's 
 house in Austin Friars in the hither end of Broad Street. 
 Recommends a youth as clerk, who has written the address. 
 
 1602, June 4. Deptford. John Coke to Fulke Greville. 
 
 My opinion is that George Thorn is a fit man to be continued in the 
 service but in the place of a workman not of a commander. His six 
 demands are severally disposed of. I make account his living by the 
 Queen is as good all things considered as a hundred pounds per annum. 
 And howsoever he threateneth I presume he will be advised before he 
 leave this condition to be a farmer in Devonshire. Direction has been 
 given to Sir Henry Palmer to set forward the Lion. Gratuities to poor 
 men. The City should supply the wants of the London Gallies. 
 
 1602, June 29. Endorsed by Mr. J. Coke. "Jewels adjudged to 
 her Majesty out of the prizes taken by Sir Robert Mansell." 
 
 1 great round box, 1 small round box - in Dirich Henrickson. 
 
 1 bag with ragged pearls - - - - in Brow. Antonies. 
 
 1 button being one of the five which were "\ 
 
 counterfeited by Hans Harmans - - >in Rolof Abrahamson* 
 
 1 button ; 1 bag seed pearls - - J 
 
 These six several parcels above written are delivered to the hands of 
 me, Sir Robert Cecill, knight, for her Majesty's use, witness my hand 
 
 (Byrne) Ro. Cecill. 
 
 1602, July 18. The Brill. William Bonnington to his cousin 
 John Coke at Mr. Greville's lodging in Austin Friars, London. 
 
 I have declared unto Sir Edward Conway how impossible it is for me 
 to maintain my charge at the Briel upon 2s. a day and there must bend 
 my course to a rural and country life. I have entreated of him that I 
 may travel into England, for my purpose is to settle my wife in a daizy 
 where by her industry she may be able to pay the rent. I undertake 
 and maintain our family. I have entreated of Sir Edward Conway my 
 place here for one of my brothers sons. 
 
 1602, the last of July. Plymouth. William Saywell to William 
 Pope, Serjeant of the High Court of the Admiralty at his house in 
 Saint Katherine's near London. 
 
 He describes his escape near Lisbon from a Spanish galley, one of 
 eight to have gone to the Low Countries aud his assisting Sir Richard 
 in the Discharge to capture a carack. 
 
 1604, August 8. Thomas Sackvile Earl of Dorset. Order to Sir 
 F. Grevill, knt., late Treasurer for the Carique St. Valentine, to pay 
 money to R. Carmarden. 
 
 c 2
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 30 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1602, September 13. London. Sir Richard Leveson to Fulke 
 Greville. 
 
 Has sent the examinations of the prisoners to him, and the parties 
 to the Lord Admiral. 
 
 1602, September 14. Examination of three men (Francis Cooper 
 and Henry Parramore of Plymouth, and Andrew Herring) that were 
 prisoners in the galleys at the taking of the Carack and that came lately 
 out of Spain. (Not signed or attested.) 
 
 1602, September 19. Aboard the Answer. Captain Matthew 
 Bredgate to Foulke Grevill, Esquire, Treasurer of Her Majesty's 
 Navy. 
 
 <f I do send a small roll of tobacco, all that I had, which in truth I 
 gave unto Sir Edward Conway, he no sooner proved thereof but he said 
 it was right tobacco for your taste." Asks the place of a captain of 
 land soldiers at the Brill. 
 
 1602, Oct. 4, Oatlands. Charles Howard Earl of Nottingham, Lord 
 High Admiral, to Fulke Greville, Esquire, Treasurer of Her Majesty's 
 Navy. 
 
 Mine eyes are so dim as you must pardon me that I write not with 
 my own hand. I am glad to hear of those ships to be docked and the 
 good opinion you conceive of the Repulse and the Rainbow. I purpose 
 to show unto Her Majesty your letter to the end she may see to what 
 good pui'pose you have bestowed your time. 
 
 1602, Oct. 14. "I Allegations by George Colyson of abstraction of 
 
 1603, June 19. J sea stores and other frauds by Phineas Pett. 
 
 1602, October 20. Barracote. Ralph Bonnington to his cousin John 
 Coke. 
 
 This kind desire and endeavour of my brother to transport his place 
 to one of my sons I am much bound to observe, howbeit my children 
 young, I do wholly study and labour for their nurture I am certain 
 that not himself so much as others have occasioned his removal, for 
 unless he would have suffered horrible inconveniences, yea, such as are 
 odious, both in religion and humanity, he could not have that recompense 
 he deserved. My very earnest request unto you on his behalf is that 
 if Sir Henry Foulkes be disposed to leave his placo and office in that 
 garrison for 100/. you will let my brother have therein your advice and 
 furtherance. 
 
 [Endorsed to the Right Honourable Sir F. Vere, knt., Lord Governor 
 .at the Brill. Also with a memo, by J. Coke to officers of the navy.] 
 
 1602, October 28. Dublin. Captain A. Ersfield to John Coke. 
 
 The winds are contrary from England these three months greatly to 
 our discomforts. I am now ready to return to the garrison at the 
 Blackwater, having come hither to finish that grand account of my Lord 
 of Essex time for the munition which I thank God I have done and 
 discharged myself of a burden intricate enough. I have 100 foot in pay. 
 Our entertainment so small by reason of this brass money we are paid 
 with, as none are able to live with it. In your talking with Mr. Greville 
 if my company were increased to 250, as most are here, I could not be 
 weary to follow this war as long as our honourable Lord stayeth. 
 
 1602, November 9. Beauchamp Court. Sir Foulke Grevill, senr., to 
 John Coke at Austin Friars. 
 
 The scorn the Sheriff of Worcestershire hath offered me sticks so much 
 upon my heart that if I had my limbs as I have had I would require no
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 37 
 
 man's help to right my cause. Write me wherein you think that I err 
 and I shall be contented that your advice shall rule me. 
 
 [Endorsed with Coke's reply, suggesting a peace-making course.] 
 
 1602, December 9. Endorsed by Coke, " A proportion of rosin, 
 oil, pitch, tar, and brimstone, needful for one year at Chatham. 
 Allowed by Sir John Trevor." 
 
 1602, December 25 to January 1. Expenses of household of 
 Mr. Fulke Grevill at Deptford. 
 
 1602-3, January 31. Trinity Hall. Doctor John Richardson to 
 John Coke. 
 
 I cannot offer gold to the building of the Tabernacle, I am minded to 
 present my goats wool. Here are no competitioners but Depontanus 
 Jeremias et Rhetor noster iroKvKoyuTaro^ kcu iyu 8pa,hvy\u<r<Tos hyu. Neither 
 will I condemn myself to such silence but that I will offer a trial which 
 if it fall out well [ must thank none so much as you. We must refer 
 the success of all to him that ruleth all, cujus spirilus sit in nobis fons 
 saliens ad vitam asternam. 
 
 1602-3, February 3. Sir Griffin Markham to John Coke at Austin 
 Friars. 
 
 This bearer was preferred to me by his cousin Captain Hanford before 
 my going into Italy. His friends have advised him to a more thriving 
 course than a serving man's life and have disbursed some money for a 
 place in the navy. 
 
 1602-3, February. Endorsed by Coke, " Phinees Pett's proportions 
 for graving the ships." A true proportion of the quantities of rosin, oil, 
 brimstone, pitch, tar, thrums, oakum, and reed, that is necessarily re- 
 quired for the grounding of all Her Majesty's ships, great pinnaces, 
 galleys, hoys, long boats, small pinnaces, barges and lighters belonging 
 to the navy, as also for the trimming them above water with their oriops 
 and decks, tarring their masts, upper decks, and allowances for sea 
 stores once in a year with the necessary allowances for the yard of these 
 provisions employed about making and repairing masts and other things 
 continually used in the same place. The ships mentioned are Elizabeth, 
 Bear, Triumph, Honour, Ark, Victory, Defiance, Garland, Wastspite, 
 Repulse, Lion, Mary Rose, Bonadventure. 
 
 1602-3, February 3. The Tower. J. Livewraye to F. Grevill. 
 
 As to supply of camphor refined to Her Majesty's ships for fireworks. 
 
 1602-3, March 2. Trinity College. Doctor Thomas Nevile, Master 
 of Trinity College, to John Coke at Mr. Greville's house within the 
 Austin Friars in London. 
 
 Sir, I do hope you did understand by your brother the last week that 
 we have passed our grant for the renewing of your lease at Tillington 
 and that in such sort as I am sure you will take in very good part when 
 you shall be made acquainted with the particulars. 
 
 1602-3, March 21. The Court at Richmond. Thomas Sackville Lord 
 Buckhurst, ( Lord High Treasurer) ; Charles Howard, Lord Howard of 
 Effingham, Earl of Nottingham, (Lord High Admiral) ; Sir W. Knollys, 
 K.G., (Treasurer of the Household) ; Sir J. Stanhope (of Harrington, 
 Vice-Chamberlain) ; Robert Cecyll, (Secretary of State) ; J. Fortescu 
 and J. Herbert, the Lords of the Council, to the High Sheriff of the 
 County of Northampton for the time being, Sir Richard Knightley, Sir 
 George Farmer, Sir Arthur Throgmorton and Sir William Lane, 
 knights, and the rest of the Justices of the Peace of the said County. 
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 
 lyGGi)
 
 38 HISTOEICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSs. Suit hath been made by William Clarke, Post of Daventry, for pro- 
 curing of some reasonable contribution unto him from the inhabitants of 
 the country near adjoining him towards the great charge he is at for 
 Her Majesty's service : which we do hereby pray and require you 
 speedily to effect. 
 
 Temp Eliz. Part of a draft warrant appointing the Lord Treasurer, 
 and Lord Admiral and others, of the Council, or any three of them, calling 
 to them Fulke Greville, Esquire, Treasurer of our Navy, Sir Thomas 
 Gorges, Knight, Sir R. Leveson, Knight, John Moore, Citizen and 
 Alderman of London, Richard Carmarthen, Surveyor of our Customs 
 and Subsidies in our Port of London and Thomas Midds, Commissioners 
 for sale of a prize Carack and the merchandise therein. 
 
 Temp. Eliz. Draft in Coke's writing, indorsed " Copy of a letter 
 to Mr. Naunton concerning Mr. Grevill Yerney." 
 
 Sir, I assure you the care and pains you take to encourage and direct 
 Mr. Grevill Verney's studies are most kindly accepted and much valued 
 by all his friends. . . . You sow in a plentiful and well tilled ground 
 which must needs yield an abundant harvest if the heart thereof through 
 too much heat be not smothered and spent. . . . The true meaning of 
 his friends was not to require miracles at his hands nor to draw all 
 knowledge of schools into this circlet of five months study and leave 
 nothing for his after ages ; but to let him know that he studieth not all 
 to himself but their comforts and ends will both participate and grow on 
 with his. . . . Here your authority and counsel joined with the tender 
 care and dexterity of his honest and learned tutor may govern both his 
 ways and affections in the same tenor with his muses heretofore .... 
 My true affection to his own ingenuity, obligation to his friends, and 
 affiance in yourself do warrant me thus far not to prescribe your opinion 
 but to deliver mine, which is that his mind and body should be kept in a 
 right line both of health and strength and specially that modest alacrity 
 of spirit which I ever loved and admired in him should in no wise be 
 dulled with any overstrain. 
 
 Temp. Eliz. Discourse upon the present occasion of transferring 
 the trade which hath been at Stade into the United Provinces of the 
 Low Countries and divers observations to be noted in the settling and 
 placing of the same. 
 
 Forasmuch as it hath pleased the Queen's Majesty according as 
 many of her noble progenitors afore to establish by charter the mer- 
 chants adventurers in their trade thereby committing, as it were, unto 
 their trust the well ordering and disposing of the utterance of the 
 greatest part of these commodities of this realm (viz., woollen cloths 
 and other woollen commodities whereupon the welfare of no small part 
 of this kingdom doth much consist) . . . And forasmuch also as 
 at this present by interruption of trade through the malice of the 
 Hanse occasions are given to consult of some place or places meet for 
 the utterance of the said woollen cloths and woollen commodities . . . 
 and so much more at this time than heretofore for that the choice and 
 invitation of sundry places givetb the advantage of choosing the fittest 
 and most commodious . . . the worthy Master Governor and 
 Doctor Neckcher (?) have undertaken being associate with two other to 
 go over to the Hague to negotiate that needful business with the States 
 General. 
 
 Reasons are stated against Middleborough . . . the merchants 
 adventurers did never thrive better than being altogether at one place in 
 Antwerp. . . .
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPT'S COMMISSION. 
 
 39 
 
 Temp. Eliz. Endorsed by Coke, ' Concerning the accounts per Coke mss. 
 medium of 14*." for every man per mensem, with reference to the 
 sea wages of Sir Martin Frobisher as Admiral of Her Majesty's Fleet 
 upon the coast of Britain and Captain of the Vauntgard at 26s. 8d. per 
 diem and of a master and 248 other mariners. 
 
 Temp. Eliz. " Touching the Navy." Minutes signed by Fulke Grevyll, 
 Henry Palmer, and John Trevor. 
 
 Temp. Eliz. "The names of such as have supplied the place of 
 President or Vice President of the Court of the Marches " of Wales. 
 
 18 Edw. 4. John, Bishop of 
 
 Worcester. 
 17 Henry 7. W. Smith, Bp. of 
 
 Lincoln. 
 4 Henry 8. Geoffrey Bleith, Bp. 
 
 of Coventry & Lichfield. 
 17 Henry 8. John Phesy (Vesy) 
 
 Bp. of Exeter. 
 26 Henry 8. Rowland Lea, Bp. 
 
 of Cov. & Lichfield. 
 35 Henry 8. Richard Sampson, 
 
 Bp. of Cov. & Lichfield. 
 
 2 Edw. 6. John Dudley, Earl of 
 
 Warwick. 
 
 3 Edw. 6, Sir William Herbert. 
 K.G. 
 
 1 Mary. Nicholas Heath, Bishop 
 
 of Worcester. 
 3 Mary. Sir W. Herbert, Earl of 
 
 Pembroke. 
 6 Mary. Gilbert Burne, Bishop of 
 
 Bath and Wells. 
 
 1 Eliz. John Lord Williams of 
 Thame. 
 
 2 Eliz. Sir Henry Sydney, who 
 died 5 May, 28 Eliz. 
 
 His Vice Presidents : 
 
 1. W. Gerrard. 
 
 2. Sir John Throckmorton. 
 
 3. Sir Hugh Cholmondeley. 
 
 4. Sir John Corbet. 
 
 5. Sir George Bromley. 
 
 Temp. 
 Grevill. 
 
 Eliz. September 9, Deptford. John Coke to Fulke 
 
 We cannot yet settle John Jackson in this place which you have so 
 favourably procured for him. ... I told Mr. Trevor how much it con- 
 cerned the interest of your office to have a messenger in whom you 
 might be confident in your trust. . , . I have had great wars with him 
 at this pay : yet all again calmed into as good shews as before. He 
 never declare his affectation of absoluteness more plainly and was never 
 more plainly without advantage repelled. Sir Henry Palmer and 
 Mr. Buck are glad that you find reason and means to keep his instru- 
 ments from about you. . . . Sir Henry Palmer is at London and hopeth 
 to receive his pay as he did the last year, that is 13s. 4d. per diem, 
 guarding and 20s. per diem at sea. Captain Gore also demandeth pay 
 for Vice Admiral to Sir Robert Maunsel. I beseech you urge Mr. 
 Trevor to procure my Lords resolution in writing both for Sir Henry 
 Palmer and Sir Robert and for their Vice Admirals that you may have 
 authentical records for all your payments. 
 
 Temp. Eliz. A Paper of Particulars of Grants and Leases made 
 to Fulk Grevill, Esquire. 
 
 1. Grant by the Queen, dated at Westminster, 8 February, Elizabeth 
 31, of Canck [Cannock] Wood, viz., two iron furnaces, two iron forges, 
 all waters thereto belonging, all woods and trees dispersed in the forest 
 of Canck, the five cottages wherein the workmen Jived, and all mines of 
 ironstone in the forest of Canck, all which were parcels of the lands and 
 possessions of Thomas late Lord Paget (except woods in Beudezart 
 [Beaudesert] Park, and Gentle Shaw, and 3,100 trees (marked by the 
 surveyor), and all hollies in the forest of Canck and Heywood Park) to 
 Fulk Grevill for 21 years, at the annual rent of 211/. 10s.
 
 40 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokkMSS. 2 . Grant by the Queen, dated at Westminster, 3 April, Elizabeth 32, 
 of the whole manor of Penkridge, sometime the inheritance of Robert 
 Willoughby Lord Brook, to Fulk Grevill and his heirs for ever. 
 
 3. Grant by the Queen, dated 14 May, Elizabeth 36, of her 
 manors of Asperton, Stretton and Yarckhull [Ashperton, Stretton 
 Grandisone, and Yorkhill], in the county of Hereford, parcel of the 
 Duchy of Lancaster, to Fulk Grevill for 21 years, at the yearly rent of 
 31/. lis. od. 
 
 4. Grant by the Queen, dated 16 March, Elizabeth 27, to Fulk 
 Grevill of all her Majesty's interest in leases granted to her Majesty by 
 John [Bullingham] Bishop of Gloucester of the parsonage, farm, and 
 tithes of Kimford (co. Gloucester), the rectory and parsonage of 
 Cowern (co. Hereford), the rectory and parsonage of Newport (co. 
 Monmouth), the rectory and parsonage of Hinton upon the Green (co. 
 Gloucester), the manor of Preston (co. of the city of Gloucester), the 
 rectory and parsonage of Dewchurch (co. Hereford), the manor of 
 Rudge and Farleigh (co. Gloucester), certain messuages and lands in 
 the manors of Droiscourt and Langford (co. of the city of Gloucester), 
 the tithes of corn and hay of Soil, Putley, Stonedish Moreton, and 
 Farleigh (co. Gloucester), the rectory and parsonage of Northleach (co. 
 Gloucester), and the rectory and parsonage of Hartpury (co. of the city 
 of Gloucester), at certain yearly rents for the space of 89 years from the 
 
 time that they fall void. 
 
 5. Lease, dated 7 December, Elizabeth 35, by the Bishop of Bristol of 
 the manor and rectory of Buckland (co. Berks) to Fulk Grevill for 21 
 years at the yearly rent of 23/. 3s. Id. 
 
 6. Lease, dated 7 December, Elizabeth 35, by the Bishop of Bristol of 
 the manor and rectory of Ashelworth (co. Gloucester) to Fulk Grevill 
 for 21 years at the yearly rent of 64/. 7 s. Sd. 
 
 Navy Papers, chiefly Temp. Eliz. 
 
 Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. 1562-1574. " The book of abuses 
 done by Mr. Christopher Baker in making of provisions of timber and 
 plank." 
 
 " Divers abuses committed by officers of the Navy which being 
 reformed Her Majesty may set to seas half as many more ships in time 
 of service as now she doth at the same charge and in time of peace 
 maintain them at far less charge than now she doth." 
 
 " A course to be held in the trial of the abuses committed in the office 
 of the Navy and what proofs hath been already made." 
 
 " The proof and demonstration whereby it will particularly appear 
 how the excessive gain is made in the building of Her Majesty's ships." 
 
 (In building 3 great ships 92, 110, and 95 foot long, 32, 37, and 33 
 foot broad, and 16, 17, and 17 foot deep, there should have been saved 
 2,908/.) 
 
 "A note taken out of the account of William Pelham, Esquire, Lieu- 
 tenant of the Queen's Majesty's Ordnance by virtue of Thomas Litchfield 
 his commission for 5 years ended the last of December 1572 wherein is 
 set forth the particulars of the timber as it was bought and provided by 
 Thomas Turner, purveyor of the same, and what prices he is paid for 
 the same in Her Majesty's books there. Manifesting thereby how much 
 Her Majesty is overcharged, as followeth, viz." 
 
 The price as it was bought The price of the same as it was 
 
 in the country sold to the Tower. 
 
 &c. &c. &c. &c.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 41 
 
 1598, Nov r 20. Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. The exanrina- c oee MSS, 
 tion of Alice Goodwin of Rochester, widow, as to purchases by her of 
 
 stores from officers of the Navy. 
 
 1599. Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. " Chatham, Loiterers, Days 
 of absence of House Carpenters, Sawyers and their Mates, Shipwrights. 
 Borrowers to pay again." Also Notes by Coke of divers thefts of stores. 
 
 1599. Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. A paper by Coke 
 endorsed by him " Allowances not warrantable in the Navy," with notes 
 of rewards which may be made warrantable. 
 
 1600. Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. A paper in Coke's 
 writing endorsed by him " Abuses, 1600." "Mr. Buck's charges laid 
 out for a journey to Portsmouth to pay these ships ( Repulse, Wastspite, 
 Vanguard), and the ordinary there 2 quarters to end at Michaelmas." 
 
 1601. March 31. Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. Endorsed by 
 Coke " Counterfeit bill," purporting to be signed by Henry Palmer 
 and Pe. Buck. 
 
 1601, June 20. Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. Leonard Fryer 
 (his mark) To the Right worshipful Mr. Fulke Grevill Esquire give 
 these. His patent from the Lord Admiral detained from him, and his 
 warrant for pay kept from him till he paid 10/. to have it. 
 
 1601-2, February 2. Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. " Thomas 
 Manly's certificate for 3 barrels of brimstone mingled with sand." 
 
 1601-2, February 15. Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. " Informations 
 given by William Bailey to Sir Henry Palmer and J. C. (John Coke)." 
 Sawyers working for Buck, Pett and Legat, while paid as in the Queen's 
 service. 
 
 Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. 1601-2, March 5. Indorsed by 
 Coke " Examination of John Hudson Smith of Sittingbourne and 
 John Danby, his servant, before Sir H. Palmer and Peter Buck, Esquire 
 (as to stealing stores). 
 
 Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. 1601-2, March 18. "The examina- 
 tion of Thomas Sherston of Milton, shoemaker, and others " (as to pur- 
 chases of stolen stores). 
 
 Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. 1602, April 11. Indorsed by 
 Coke " Information against Perin for four pieces of timber." 
 
 Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. 1602, August 13. James Thurs- 
 ton to John Coke at Treasurer's Office of Her Majesty's Navy in the 
 Austin Friars in London, or in his absence to be left there. 
 
 Endorsed by Coke " James Thurston from aboard tlve Hope." (Men 
 discharged from the Hope to serve on board a ship bound for the 
 West Indies. Others come and demand to be entered as from the 
 beginning of our service. Sir Robert Mausel. Mr. Trevor implicated). 
 
 Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. 1602, February 11. Richard 
 Sandford to Mr. Fulke Grevill, at his house in the Stylliard (Steelyard) 
 in London. 
 
 Endorsed by Coke, "Richard Sandford, water bailiff, of the hundred 
 of Milton." (Information as to thefts of pitch, tar, &c, by William 
 Reynolds of Milton, butcher). 
 
 Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. 1602. Particulars of abuses in 
 work done for private purposes at the Queen's charge ; known to Sir 
 Henry Palmer, countenanced by Mr. Trevor. Sir Richard Leveson 
 mentioned.
 
 42 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. 1604, June" 16. Pe. Buck to 
 
 Richard Willis at the Stylliard (Steelyard) in London). 
 
 Endorsed by Coke, "Abuses of purveyors." 
 
 Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. No date. " The names of the 
 pursers of Her Majesty's ships and how they come to their places." 
 " The names of such pursers of Her Majesty's ships as have come to 
 their places for consideration given." 
 
 Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. No date. Sundry abuses very 
 necessary to be reformed in Her Majesty's Yard at Chatham. (Thefts 
 of pitch, plank, iron, &c. Absence without leave). 
 
 Inquiry into abuses in the Navy. No date. A paper in Coke's 
 writing, endorsed " Causes of disorders in the Navy." " The principal 
 and original causes of all disorders in the Navy are these four which 
 follow." 
 
 1. (1.) The Lord Admiral hath drawn into his own hands all appoint- 
 
 ments. 
 (2.) No man is preferred for merit but for means only. 
 (3.) The officers have no power to prefer or punish any man. 
 
 2. No man acknowledged himself liable for any particular charge. 
 
 3. The free disposing of Her Majesty's treasure is left to the discretion 
 of clerks. 
 
 4. There is no orderly course set down for the Treasurer's payments 
 and accounts. 
 
 1596, April 7. Sea store delivered to Peter Simley, carpenter of Her 
 Majesty's ship the Crane. 
 
 1598-9, February 1, the Adventurer. An inventory of all the tackle, 
 apparel, and other furniture belonging to the said ship committed to the 
 charge of John Hanced, alias Rogers, boatswain of the same ship. 
 
 Same date, the Antelope. An inventory of all the tackle, apparel, 
 and other furniture belonging to the said ship committed to the charge 
 of George Witcher, boatswain of the said ship. 
 
 1601-2, January 1. Endorsed by Coke : " Wants for the Spy." 
 Wants for Her Majesty's pinnace the Spy, as well for sea store as for 
 the fitting of her rigging. 
 
 1602, July 16. " Examination of Robert Gurr, coxswain of the 
 Nonpariel, touching carack goods." 
 
 Navy paper. Temp. Elizabeth. Indorsed by Coke : " Places to be 
 fortified on the west, south, and east sides of England," against the 
 assault of the Spanish invasion 
 
 Directions who shall command. 
 
 # * 
 
 Till Her Majesty send any special commander or lieutenant for the 
 war down the lieutenant for the county where the invasion is made is 
 to command, and in his absence some one deputy lieutenant who hath 
 most sufficiency, and he to be named beforehand, as for example Sir 
 Nicholas Parker in Cornwall, Sir Ferdinando Gorges in Devonshire. 
 
 
 
 Letters and Papers. Temp. James I. 
 
 1603, April 30. Copy of the speech delivered to the king at 
 Berwick. " Most gracious sovereign We are here procul a musis and can 
 no way better congratulate your Highness most happy entry and first 
 footstep into this your English kingdom than by the loyal and cheerful
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 43 
 
 acknowledgment of our faith and allegiance to your sacred Majesty, Cokb MSS. 
 b eing not only our dread sovereign leige Lord and rightful king of this 
 land but the first sole and absolute monarch of all the British Islands. 
 
 # # * 
 
 God who of his infinite goodness, to the unspeakable joy and comfort 
 of all your Majesty's kingdoms, hath set these imperial kingdoms upon 
 your head, establish the same in you and yours with a long and happy 
 reign that it may be as in success without example so in succession 
 without end. Amen." 
 
 (On the same paper) . 
 
 The names of the knights made at Warsopp. 
 
 Sir John Manners. Sir [Hugh] Smith who married Sir 
 Sir Henry Gray. Thomas Gorges daughter. 
 
 Sir Henry Perpoynt. Sir Peter Fretchvile. 
 
 Sir John Byron. Sir Edward Lucy. 
 
 Sir Thomas Greisley. Sir John Harper. 
 
 Sir Henry Beaumont. Sir Thomas Stanley. 
 
 Sir Francis Neweport. Sir Wm. Davenport. 
 
 Sir John Skipwith. Sir Water Cope. 
 
 Sir Edward Cockayn. Sir Richard Thornton. 
 Sir Percevall Willoughby. 
 
 1603, May 31. Trusley. Francis Coke to John Coke at Mr. Grevill's 
 lodgings at Deptford. 
 
 I am appointed collector for this subsidy and am to nay into the 
 Exchequer before the last of June so much as I have gathered, and 
 because I have not good means to send money, now I must entreat you 
 to pay that money in your hands, and take some discharge for so much. . . . 
 I have appointed my man to bring me some apparel, if you advise him so, 
 because of the sickness. This morning I heard that Sherewe Hall 
 where Thomas Gregson dwells (in Thurveston, Sutton-on-the-Hill) will 
 be let for years . . . 100 marks by year . . . There is on it a very pretty 
 house and a dovecot, let me entreat you not to lay out your money until 
 you hear again from me ... I pray you send brother Carey word to 
 come into the country ... if he come not I shall live like a dunce all 
 summer. I have young hawks in the wood too. 
 
 1603, July 16 to July 23. Charges of housekeeping of Fulke Grevill 
 at Deptford. 
 
 1603, July 25, st. vet. Brill. Sir Edward Conway to John Coke, 
 deputy to Foulke Grevill in his Office for the Navy at the store house 
 at Deptford. 
 
 The Count Herman van Birke with 20,000 of the Archduke's soldiers 
 is set down before Holstrate [Hooystraat ?] His Excellency (Count 
 Maurice?) is risen with 12,000 men to go towards the relief, in which 
 number is Sir Horace Vere with 26 English companies, but troopn 
 never went out with more brag, even almost to engage hi- Excellency to 
 fight or else to declare that he will not or cannot without t ie general <>< 
 the English were there. Asks that Mr. Viner will send a note ot the 
 money due for things had by Sir E. Conway and his wile out of the 
 Carrack. 
 
 1603, July 31. "Accord fait entre son Excellence et PEseadrou Electo 
 et Conseil de l'Union de Hoochstraten fait a Medcn. 
 
 Ainsi fait et accorde en l'Assemblee des Estats Generaux <!es Provinces 
 Unies du Pays Bas."
 
 44 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. An abstract of a letter of Captain Ogle written from Ostend 4 August 
 
 1603 (st. novo) to Sir Edward Conway. 
 
 The town is full of misery, the plague reigneth exceedingly. The 
 enemy begins a new work behind the dike in the East. The burghers 
 abandon the town. 
 
 An abstract out of a letter of Mr. Ironwood, written from the Hague 
 29 July 1603 (st. vet) to Sir E. Conway. 
 
 We understand from the army that his Excellency upon Thursday 
 did march towards Holstraten ; the besieged will not hearken to any 
 capitulation which hath been tendered them by Frederick Vanderber, 
 who commands the Archduke's forces. Colonel Betune who cast him- 
 self into the rear of our quarters did there receive his death wounds. 
 
 1603, August 16. Deptford. R. Naunton to John Coke. 
 
 Now I am returned I have mauy great thanks to give you for your 
 kind offices done both upon my imbarking and in my absence which 
 have taken place as happily as if I had been present myself. I felt the 
 fruit of your prayers (as I persuade myself) in all my businesses. You 
 are beholden to Mr. Rockwell who seemed to respect your letter more 
 than all the former order my lord had taken. Your other letters I 
 delivered not, because I would not engage you to more of them than 
 was needful. Yet of all the rest I must command Mr. Shilling for a 
 man of government and discipline befitting his charge, to whose care all 
 our company were generally beholden. For our entertainment yonder 
 I must refer you to my long ones to Sir Fulke. I am now hasting to my 
 friends in Kent and shall be glad at my return to understand by your 
 line or two that you are all well, and when you think to come up again, 
 I pray commend my service to Sir Richard Verney and his lady, and 
 forget me not to Domine and the rest of our Cambridge friends there. 
 And so I pray God for all your happiness. All the news I can tell you 
 is that my Lord of Rutland received advertisement from Court that they 
 in the Tower are to be arraigned upon Monday next come fortnight at 
 Reading. Here is a rumour that the king is like to return suddenly to 
 Hampton whereas his progress was to have endured 40 and six days by 
 the gists. 
 
 1603, August 19. Brill. Sir Edward Conway to John Coke. 
 
 Movements of the armies of Count Maurice and the Archduke about 
 Bois le due and Hoogstraat. Sir Fulke Grevill wanting mares should 
 send a servant in September to near this place one of the most famous 
 fairs for great choice of horses. 
 
 With " A copy of Articlei accorded between his Excellency and the 
 mutineers (at Hoogstraat) with an abstract of two letters sent to Sir 
 Edward Conway" viz., from Captain Ogle from Ostend, and from Mr. 
 Winwood from the Hague. 
 
 1603, August 20. The Brill. W. Bonington to Mr. Coke. 
 
 Sir E. Conway upon your letter will grant me what liberty you 
 require. ... I have sent over a grey gelding to be conveyed into 
 Derbyshire ; if you like him I give you the free dispose of him. 
 
 1603, September 19. Paid to the R 4 Hon ble Robert Lord Spencer, 
 sent to the Duke of Wurtemburg with the Order of the Garter, for his 
 posting, passages, and transportations, and his train going and returning 
 533Z. 14*. 2c?. 
 
 Lord Doncaster. Transportation and carriage of goods for self and 
 retinue with coaches and horses from London to Canterbury and thence 
 to Dover and whilst he stayed there for wind, 146/. 
 
 Charge of coaches, horses, wagons for himself and retinue from
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 45 
 
 Hanow to Heidelberg and thence to Mannheim, 5 days at xxxij/. per Cokb MSS. 
 diem. 
 
 1603, September 19. Copy of a Warrant, of grant by James I. 
 of a pension of 50/. to Theobald Bourke, Baron of Castleconnell, 
 addressed to the Earl of Devonshire our Lieutenant for our realm of 
 Ireland. 
 
 1603, September 26. Brill. Sir Edward Conway to John Coke. 
 
 The Marquis Malaspina being sent for to his Excellency passing in 
 the quarter with Monsieur Temple, the Marshal of our army, with the 
 blow of a cannon the Marquis had his legs shot off and Monsieur 
 Temple lies dead in the place. Commend my service to my hon. cousin 
 Sir Foulke Grevill. 
 
 1603, October 5. An estimate for a provision of store for building 
 and repairing of His Majesty's ships to the value of 11,850/. Signed, 
 John Addey. 
 
 1603, October 12. Rainham. Captain John Norreys to John Coke, 
 Paymaster for the King's Majesty's Navy. 
 
 I think I am not deceived in those monthly allowances you then 
 concluded would be sufficient to recompense those officers travails. If I 
 be then I am sure it was 40/., 30/., and 20/. for three several rate3 to 
 two of the most necessary men of each ship, and if you think the third 
 man, the purser I mean, not worthy the like allowance then of force he 
 must needs be cashiered, for to retain him within stricter bounds than 
 he is is but either to make him a beggar or force him to break his own 
 neck ... to say truth the whole body is so corrupted as there is no 
 sound part almost from the head to the foot ; the great ones feed on the 
 less and enforce them to steal both for themselves and their com- 
 manders. ... If their honest travails be well recompensed a man may 
 without pity punish their disorders, whatsoever they be or by whom- 
 soever committed. . . . Our country generally is infected witli the 
 plague, insomuch as between London and Dover are few towns free 
 (through which the high way goeth). . . . Otherwise it should not 
 be long ere I come to attend on Sir Fulke. 
 
 1603, October 23. Salisbury. John Coke to Foulke Grevill. 
 
 Sir Richard Levison's friendliness. Sir Robert Dudley's suit against 
 Mr. Grevill before the Council. Sir R. MauseFs endeavour to obtain a 
 reversion in the Navy Office over Mr. Grevill's head. Earl of Suffolk 
 has seen draft book of amendments in the Navy Office. The King is 
 resolved to have three new ships built. Lord Suffolk inclineth to have 
 % them three years in building. State of Mr. Grevill's households at 
 London and Deptford. 
 
 1603, October 31. Salisbury. John Coke to Foulke Grevill. 
 Upon the like matters. 
 
 Relates his interviews with the Earl of Suffolk and the Lord Cecil. 
 The time they appoint for the work is the term at Winchester when 
 the Lords attend fourteen days. My Lady Rich is violent against Sir 
 Robert Dudley ; yet I find her much esteemed, and she is very often at 
 my Lady Suffolk's chamber. 
 
 1603, December 19. Trinity Hall. R. Naunton to John Coke at 
 Deptford, to be delivered and left for him at Richard Willis his house 
 in the Stillyard (Steelyard). 
 
 " Sir, your letter of the 27th of November came not to my hands from 
 Mr. Dean of St. Paul's till the 17th of December after dinner. I re- 
 paired forthwith to the Dean of Canterbury, who much marvelled he 
 should not have heard from you at their audit, and had called upon
 
 46 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. y our brother to draw you then hitherward. Your suit was granted 
 
 before, but in your own name and for 20 years only without fine from 
 
 Michaelmas last passed, and your new lease ready drawn verbatim after 
 
 the old lease For your form of thankfulness Mr. Dean's 
 
 opinion is that your kind acknowledgment by a public letter to him and 
 them (of this I have advertised you) will be better taken than a fine 
 from you, whom they all favoured certatim. . . . Indorse your letters 
 to him that keeps my lodging in my absence that he may forthwith 
 
 address them to me I left a desk with him (William your 
 
 Deptford butler) that hath all the process of my long suit in it to be 
 left in your chamber. I pray lay them in this caveat, that if Alexander 
 my late man come to demand it or any other thing as from me that 
 they refuse him as none of mine." 
 
 1604, April 20, ~| The Hague. Johan Megano a Monsieur Conway, 
 July 1, > Chevalier, Lieutenant Gouverneur de la ville de 
 August 4. J Brielle. 
 Three letters with information of events and enclosing (probably) 
 News letters. 
 
 ' A^-'l 94' News letters in French of Eome, Venice, 
 
 yP . ' 'Cologne, the Hague. &c. (probably sent to 
 
 T ok 1 ^ r Edward Conway and transmitted by him 
 
 o Un , ^ ,90 to the authorities in England). 
 
 1604, April 23. Rughford (Rufford) in Nottinghamshire. Gilbert 
 Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, to the Lord Howard. 
 
 Albeit this suit of mine is like to come somewhat unseasonably to 
 you, now that you are embarked, yet I beseech you bear with me in it. 
 It is that this bearer may be admitted as one of my Lord your father's 
 train in this his journey into Spain : his name is Thomas Coke, a gent 
 who hath long served me, and for whose honesty and good carriage of 
 himself every way I will be accountable : his end is only to gain the 
 experience of so great and honourable a journey. I confess there 
 neither is nor ever was any man towards me whom I have or do more 
 love or affect than I do this man. I will take my leave, being enjoined 
 by my wife to remember her most hearty commendations to your Lord- 
 ship, who joineth with me in wishing you the like happy journey and 
 safe re f urn. 
 
 1604, May 8. London. John Coke to Mistress Marie Powell. 
 
 Docketed " To my spouse." 
 
 If my former letters assured you of my continued affection let this (I 
 pray you) bear witness of the increase thereof, and this I confess is 
 wrought in me by that good correspondence which you shew in the last 
 I received from you. For love kindleth love ; and the concurrence of 
 desires doth multiply good will, as reflection giveth strength to heat. I 
 have now many businesses in hand, and yet hope (by God's favour) to 
 see you shortly. For my affection will whet my industry, and help my 
 despatch. In the meanwhile accept of this trifle, and like a good 
 almozener distribute the pence to the poor as you meet them. I writ 
 unto you for the measure of your finger, now I crave besides a cast 
 glove that fitteth your hand. And if you write for anything to be pro- 
 vided for you here, which the country cannot so conveniently supply, I 
 will take it for a favour from you, and will think you then love me 
 indeed when you dispose freely of me and mine. God prosper you and 
 accomplish in us His good purpose and mercy.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 47 
 
 1604, May 15. Trusley. Francis Coke to John Coke at the Austin coke mss. 
 Friars in Broad Street, London. 
 
 I have many businesses that might draw me to London this term if 
 the danger of the sickness were not so great as the report makes it here. 
 . . . one matter is for Robert Thacker ... I would wish you to pay 
 
 my brother George his annuity, also my brother Thomas I pray 
 
 you let me know whether stuffs or silks be dear or cheap that I may frame 
 my buying thereafter against Whitsuntide. ... I would gladly hear 
 what price beasts fetch in Smithfield for I have ten fat oxen. I might 
 have had 51. 13s. 4</. an ox for them at Cubley fair. I have lost my 
 seal ,- I pray you help me with one of elephant's tooth. 
 
 1604, May 30. Stiston. John Stretehay to his cousin John Coke. 
 
 There is a near friend and kinsman of mine that is very desirous to 
 try his fortune either in the Court or under some gentleman. I know 
 him to be honest ; his bringing up hath been partly at Cambridge, so 
 that he understands the Latin tongue, and he writes a very fair hand, 
 both Roman and secretary, sufficient to discharge the place of any 
 clerk. 
 
 1604, July 2. Preston. John Powell to John Coke. 
 
 It hath pleased our most mighty and merciful God hitherunto to pre- 
 serve and protect us from danger. The servant which died fell sick 
 here, and died at his own houee. A fortnight after his death there fell 
 sick in that house all that were therein, which were an old woman, 
 his wife, and a sucking child, and all died within four days 
 after, and a woman and a boy, which undertook the keeping of 
 them, shortly after fell sick and the boy is dead. I am to remember the 
 Lord's great mercy in preserving divers honest neighbours which were 
 with the man in his sickness and at his shrouding and burial, and others 
 which were with the rest at their first falling sick. We rest upon His 
 providence, setting aside carnal fear, as by your good counsel we were 
 advised not neglecting such ordinary means as the Lord in his goodness 
 hath assigned. 
 
 1604, July 28. Cambridge. Sir Richard Verney to John Coke. 
 
 To let you know of our success in our Cambridge journey because I 
 there found the influence of your good affections towards my poor imps. 
 My brother dealt heartily with Mr. Naunton, who with as kind and 
 frank a mind, yielded to assist and direct Domine both in his study and 
 course of life. Mr. Dakins was not returned from his journey to take 
 the air for amendment of his health, but all concluded he would be much 
 raised and strengthened with this place which was provided for him. 
 We took order for his coining to Compton upon his return to resolve 
 the course w r e intended for the boy. Grevyll and Jack are w T ell grown 
 and with good shape. It seemeth Grevyll will grow to be nimble limbed, 
 which I did much doubt of. I think his heart is inclined to follow his 
 books seriously. Mr. George Coke he acknowledged much to, who in 
 his kindness often visited him. Here is my brother much contented in 
 the pursuit of his own commodities, and in the usage he receivcth from 
 all. We only want you to play shrewd turns, which, good Mr. Coke, 
 hasten. No news of the whole world, my Lady Anne Clifford, my Lady 
 Coke, nor any other. Farewell thou sluggard of intelligence. All of 
 Compton with all their hearts recommend themselves to you. 
 
 1604, July 29. "Notes touching suits made and to be made to the 
 King's most excellent Majesty." 
 
 {Justice 
 or 
 Grace.
 
 4 8 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Justice either against < 2 * 
 
 Coke MSS. T j? .^ _.__ i f l. The King himself. 
 
 Others. 
 
 1. Justice against the King himself is either, 
 
 For debts owing by him to the complainant, or wrongfully withholding 
 
 the lands or goods of the complainant. 
 All which are to be referred to the Court of Exchequer, or to the 
 Lord Treasurer, or to some subordinate officer of the revenue. 
 
 2. Justice against others is to redress oppressions J x 
 
 and wrongs offered either by - - - | -r> , 
 
 * j ^ Private men. 
 
 f 1. Mere injustice, 
 
 or 
 
 1. Touching wrongs offered by J 2. Extreme delaying of justice, 
 
 magistrates they are either for - j or 
 
 | 3. Stopping the course of justice in 
 
 ^ other Courts. 
 
 # # # 
 
 In all which causes if the petitioners to the King can justify their 
 complaints they are then to receive present and speedy relief. But if 
 their said complaints shall be found frivolous and unjust then they are 
 to pay all 1 he costs of the adverse party, or if they be poor to receive 
 corporal punishment by whipping from the Court according to the 
 statute of 23 H. 8. c. 15. 
 
 /I. Law, 
 
 2. Wrongs offered by private men are either against < or 
 
 (2. Conscience. 
 
 * # # 
 
 fl. Gifts, 
 
 j 2. Commissions of favour. 
 For matters of grace they are for ^ 3. Letters of favour. 
 
 j 4. Protections. 
 [_5. Pardons. 
 
 1. Gifts either of lands, leases, pensions, presentations to or advow- 
 sons of some spiritual livings, concealments, almshouses, offices, for- 
 feitures, or sums of money, licenses to dispense with statutes and licenses 
 to beg, charters, mortmains, or confirmations of liberties, privileges, fairs, 
 markets, free denizenships, manumissions, allowances of tonnage for new 
 ships built, grants of free warren either deer or conies. 
 
 1. Gifts of land leases and pensions to be referred to the Lord 
 Treasurer and Chancellor of the Exchequer ; those within the Duchy to 
 the Chancellor there. 
 
 2. Presentations to or advowsons of spiritual livings under Bishoprics 
 and Deaneries, which are places specially reserved to the king, to be 
 referred to the Lord Archbishop of the Province, and the Lord Bishop 
 of the Diocese, or either of them. 
 
 3. Almshouses to be bestowed on maimed soldiers or old servants of 
 his Majesty. 
 
 4. Offices vacant, joint patentees or reversions except the principal 
 offices, of which and of men worthy thereof the king himself taketh 
 special notice, are to be referred to the chief officer under whom the 
 party must serve, viz., the Lord Chancellor, the Lord Treasurer, the Lord 
 Admiral, the Master of the Wards, and so forth. 
 
 5. Gifts of forfeitures or sums of money being rewards of service are 
 to be referred to the report of the Chief Secretary of Estate, or for such
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 49 
 
 as are of the king's household to the report of the Lord Chamberlaiti or Coke MSS. 
 of tti-3 officers of the Green Cloth. 
 
 6. Licenses to travel to be referred to the principal Secretary of 
 Estate. 
 
 7. Licenses to dispense with statutes and to beg, to the Lord Chan- 
 cellor. 
 
 8. Mortmains to the Master of the Wards. 
 
 9. Grants or confirmations of liberties, privileges, lairs or markets in 
 Wales to the Lord President of the Marches, in the North to the Lord 
 President at York, and elsewhere in England to the Lord Lieutenant of 
 the County, joined always with a writ ad quod damnum directed to the 
 principal men near dwelling to the places respectively. 
 
 10. Free denizenship to the Lord Chancellor. 
 
 1 1. Manumissions carrying an unrevokable grant of the lands and 
 goods of the bondsmen to be referred to the Lord Treasurer. 
 
 12. Allowances towards the building of new ships to be referred to 
 the Lord Admiral taking bond that such new ship be not sold out of the 
 land. 
 
 13. Giants of free warren for deer or conies on this side or beyond 
 Trent to be referred to the Chief Justice of the Eyre on this side or 
 there. 
 
 14. 15. Commisions of favour in causes Ecclesiastical, as of review 
 or in causes matrimonial or concerning church livings or controversies 
 or reformation of Church disorders or establishing of discipline or 
 ceremonies in the Church are fit to be referred to the Archbishop of 
 Canterbury and to the Lord Chancellor. 
 
 16. Commissions of favour in causes temporal to the Lord Chancellor 
 and the Chief Justice of England. 
 
 17. Commissions of favour in causes ultra marine to the Lord 
 Admiral and the Chief Secretary of Estate. 
 
 2. 18. Commissions of favour in causes marine as reprisals, or to ap- 
 prehend and take pirates, commissions to trade and streighten trade, to 
 the Lord Admiral and the Chief Secretary of Estate. 
 
 .'5. 19. Letters of favour foreign are to be referred to the Chief 
 Secretary of Estate. 
 
 Letters of favour domestical 
 
 1. For the furtherance of justice in ordinary Courts to be left to 
 
 the Masters of Requests to notify the king's pleasure in his 
 name. 
 
 2. For referring of causes to private commissioners to be left like- 
 
 wise to the Masters of Requests. 
 
 3. For preferment of scholars to colleges or schools not to pass 
 
 from the king without certificate of their povertv, honest 
 carriage and likelihood to prove scholars. 
 1. To recommend servants or others for their sakes to colleges or 
 corporations for leases, offices, or the like to be referred to the 
 Chancellor of the Universities respectively or to the Arch- 
 bishop of the Province that by means thereof neither Colleges 
 nor Churches may be undone by overawing, nor be enforced to 
 receive unworthy officers or tenants. 
 
 4. Protections from arrests are to be referred to the Lord Chancellor 
 and the Chief Justice of England. 
 
 5. Pardons of fines and amerciaments or of subsidies and fifteenths, or 
 of loss of lands or of forfeitures by reason of penal statutes or of punish- 
 ments inflicted by sentence in the Star Chamber or elsewhere and all 
 others, saving pardons of loss of life and of corporal punishments, are to 
 
 U 249G3. u
 
 50 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 be referred to the Lord Treasurer of England ; but. pardons of loss of 
 life or of corporal punishment are to be referred to the Judges re- 
 spectively before whom the parties supplicants were arraigned or 
 indicted that the king may not err in bestowing his favour for want of 
 advice. 
 
 1604, July 29. John Coke to Sir Foulke G-revill at Wedgnock. 
 
 Allowances to Navy Officials. Preparation of Accounts. The King 
 is gone to hunt at Sir Oliver Cromwell's, and thence to the Lord 
 Harington's to meet the young Duke whom the Earl of Shrewsbury 
 entertaineth at Worksop. The Lord Admiral is appointed the Prince's 
 Governor with an allowance of 400/. a year. 
 
 1604, July . News Letter in Dutch with news from Rome and 
 Venice. 
 
 1604, August 6. London. John Coke to Sir Foulke Grevill. 
 
 At court every man findeth way for his ends. The Earl of Shrewsbury 
 hath passed a book of purchase and therein hath carried the Peak forest 
 and great, matters in those parts to the great grief (no doubt) of the old 
 lady. Also old Sir Thomas Shirley hath gotten a book for 1,000/. per 
 annuo in parsonages whether in purchase at some easy rate or in gift I 
 cannot yet learn. The present delivery of oui accounts into the 
 auditor's hands shall, I doubt not, make stoppage of all proceedings 
 against you. 
 
 1604, August 14. Preston. John Powell to John Coke. 
 
 For that 1 hope to see you here shortly I will now only give you 
 thanks for your many kindnesses, and lastly for your great care and pains 
 used towards my son, who I understand hath been lately sick, and 
 praised be the Lord, now recovered. Being at Bewdley on Saturday 
 was sen'night I received letters from my master being at Beauchamp 
 Court touching the Lord Paget's felling of wood in Haywood Bailiwick 
 at Cannock, and for that the matter required some speedy resolution I 
 went to Beauchamp Court that night, and stayed there till Monday 
 where I understood that horses should be sent for you this day. 
 
 1604, September 14 (Holy rood day). Northampton. Sir Foulke 
 Grevyll to John Coke at Preston. 
 
 Your brother is very well at Northampton. I met his Lord and Lady 
 and brought them to Leicester. They grow every way mightily. This 
 day they dine at my Lord of Huntingdon's and lie at Sir John Harper's. 
 The first week of the term is my day. Commend me to yourself, good 
 John Powell, his wife, his daughter (yet your Mrs.) and all yours and his, 
 whom I wish may still be happy and love me. 
 
 1604, September 20. Note in French from Middleburg. " Que sa 
 Majeste entendroit de (venir ?) a notre aide jusques au conquest des villes 
 maritimes en Flandres : Que la Nonce du Papa lui a requis de vouloir 
 faire nouveller ligue et accord entre eux : Sur quoi il aurait repondu que 
 celle-la faite lui etoit bonne assez, si le Roi d'Espagne en vouloit, et 
 sinon qu'il lui f'eroit la guerre plutot qu'il nc saurait." 
 
 1604? November 19. Winchester. John Coke to Sir Fulke Grevill, 
 Knight. The seal, a cluster of grapes, the motto " Ut fructum ad- 
 ferat." 
 
 Sir, The Lords went this day to Court about eight in the morning, 
 only the Lord Admiral stayed behind as I suppose, because the matter of 
 Dunington betwixt him and the Lady Russell was heard this day in the 
 King's Bench. The success I know not. I have delivered your letter
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 51 
 
 to Mr. Attorney who, so soon as he had read it professed very frankly 
 that he loved yoa as his dear friend, and that yon should use him in 
 anything that concerned you or your friends as freely as any man in 
 England. Then shortly 1 told him of Sir Robert Dudley's coming up, 
 and how he followed his legitimation, and what prejudice might thereby 
 happen to you. The words of his answer were these as near as I can 
 remember them. First, he asked my name and then, Mr. Coke, quoth 
 he, believe me he beateth the air, and I am heartily sorry that since he is 
 descended from that honourable blood of Leicester he should go about to 
 lay more stains upon it. But for Wedgnock bid Sir Fulke Grevill from 
 me quiet and assure himself: for as long as I live I will defend him in 
 it, and when it cometh to any such question let him send freely unto me, 
 and he shall find me as good as my word. This was the sum of his 
 speech : wherein I assure you his manner was as good and as clear, and 
 as hearty for aught I could discern as any man's that ever I heard. 
 
 1604. Two bills endorsed by Coke. " Bird, the tailor's bill " (for 
 a gown and mantle). Also a maid-servant's bill for things bought and 
 made. 
 
 1604, December 1. Endorsed by Coke "Brother Francis his 
 account delivered at Trusley out of scattered notes which he referred 
 to a former account for more clear satisfaction." 
 
 In Mr. John Coke's writing the following : 
 
 By a note under my hand it appeareth that Anno Dom. 1592 
 September 2, I was indebted unto my brother the sum of 40/., for 
 payment whereof I gave him acquittance of 20 marks for my annuity 
 due for two years ended at Michaelmas 1594. So there remained to 
 be paid him more out of my rents at Tillington and otherwise the sum 
 of - . - - - - - - 26 13 4 
 
 Upon a letter of mine written from Orleans 25 dune, stilo novo, 
 my brother noteth that he sent to brother Thomas to be conveyed 
 to me 20/. And my brother Thomas in his letter dated 27th August 
 1596 acknowledged the receipt thereof and payment to Mr. Hammond 
 to discharge so much paid by him for me, so I am chargeable more to 
 my brother by these two letters - - - - 20 
 
 The same letter of brother Thomas saith that he sent me more 
 20 nobles and in discharge of the former 20/. sent to brother Francis 
 Mr. Hammond's bill of 20/. paid to Eleazer Hickman and another bill 
 of 20 French crowns paid to William Knight, so 1 am further charged 
 with 6 13 4 ; which brother Francis saith he allowed back to brother 
 Thomas. 
 
 By my letter from Geneva dated 6th February I desire brother 
 Francis to pay 20 French crowns to Mr. Hammond which he paid for 
 me to William Knight : this letter my brother received 29th May : 
 and in a note in his table book specifieth that he sent to Mr. Hammond 
 6 0. 
 
 Further brother Francis saith that he paid to Thomas Cox for me 
 which he thinketh to have been paid over for me to Pater French 
 10 0. 
 
 More brother Francis chargeth as paid to me in money upon his own 
 book of accounts in July 1597 the sum of - - - 20 
 
 the receipt whereof I acknowledge by a letter under my hand brother 
 Thomas 4 July 1597 to have received by Richard Sligh. By that 
 letter appeareth that then Tillington was in his hands. 
 
 i 2
 
 52 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Tillington. 
 
 Received for the first half years rent from the tenants,^) 
 beginnng at Michaelmas 1593 and ending 25th March } 
 1594 the sum of 28 7 10 whereof abate for rent paid ~>9 9 
 to the College that half year the sum of 18 18 6, so | 
 there remaineth toward discharge of debt - -J 
 
 x x x >: Lady Day 1597 X x 
 
 So there resteth due to me upon the lease abating the rents M s. d. 
 and surplusage - - - - - -15119 
 
 Debt - - - - 89 6 8 
 
 Deduct - - - 15 11 9 
 
 73 14 11 
 Deduct more for ten years annuity - 66 13 4 
 
 7 1 7 
 
 (1601-5). No date. John Coke to Sir Fulke Greville, Knight. 
 
 I waited mv Lords coming forth this morning and put him in 
 mind of his appointment. He answered lie would speak with my 
 Lord not mentioning when ; I desired him to consider how little now 
 remained only to get my Lord Cecil's hand and to nominate the man 
 of his Honour's choice to move the King. Nay when we come to that 
 (quoth he) we shall take order quickly to despatch it. Then he Avent 
 into the garden and sent for my Lord Admiral and had speech with 
 him. I waited again his coming forth ; but he told me nothing and 
 so went to my Lord Cecil. In the afternoon I purpose again to put 
 him in mind of his own time, the rather because the knight is not yet 
 returned. If we have hearing (God willing) I will keep within your 
 prescribed bounds, and if nothing be done before Monday 1 can hope 
 no longer. Sir Robert Mansel is also gone from Court only leaving word 
 with Captain Button to send for him in hasie if you require it. This 
 morning I met my Lord of Cumberland who earnestly desireth to 
 speak with you and that you would meet him at his lodging in King's 
 Street in Westminster, on Monday about 9 or 10 of the clock in the 
 morning. The Lord Chamberlain and Lady posted yesterday to 
 London and returned the same night. The King [going] to Royston 
 is disappointed by the sickness there in 4 houses. The Lords come to 
 Whitehall [ ] next week but for the Court they know not what 
 
 to resolve. The Lord Sydney went up [ day] to London to 
 
 Mr. Attorney and his Counsel. The letter to look to this business in 
 the King's behalf was written onlv by the Lord Treasurer as now 
 I hear. The Lady Bedford keepeth her prerogative of greatness at 
 Court. 
 
 (1604-5). No date. Tolm Coke to Sir Fulke Grevill, Knight, at 
 Deptford. 
 
 The resolution of the coming to London of their Lordships is 
 changed. I therefore ventured this morning to put my Lord [the Earl 
 of Suffolk] in mind of our business. His answer was that nothing 
 could be done till they came to Whitehall. Then I was bold to entreat 
 that if His Lordship found any determined stop or difficulty he would 
 be pleased to give notice of it. He sware that he knew none, and asked 
 why I went not to the Lord Treasurer. I told him I had been with 
 him and had as good despatch as I would wish, and as good evidence 
 of his approbation as his lordship had seen. Neither could I discover 
 any exception save in the other lord that first gave his hand whom we
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 53 
 
 were desirous to satisfy if his Honour would be the means to procure 
 hearing. Then he said he would speak with the Lord Cecil and this 
 afternoon give me answer what should be done. I pressed him to 
 speak with the other lord but he answered again that I should attend 
 him in the afternoon when he had spoken with the Lord Cecil. This, 
 sir, is the progress of the morning. I presume to make no coiled ions 
 but leave the consideration to your wisdom. The knight came to tell 
 me yesternight that he went not from hence till Friday morning and 
 would be glad in the meantime to hear from you. He that went into 
 Warwickshire, is expected here on Saturday. I can discover nothing 
 about the reversion. 
 
 (1604-5), January 17. John Coke to Sir Fulke Grevill. 
 
 I expect still in the same terms I did and every day present 
 myself at all turns to their Lordships but press them not, only put them 
 in mind by my presence what I attend, and once yesterday desired both 
 ihe Lord and the Lady to prepare the Lord Admiral which they said 
 they would, but I can not perceive by any light that they have yet 
 moved. Only my Lady told me that she found him variable but would 
 again try him. 1 can assure you, sir, that respect and kindness never 
 spared so few words as come from both of them, yet to make good your 
 true end and justify the cause without exception I attend this week. 
 The next I think their Lordships come to London and after to-morrow 
 there will be no more excuse of business by their own appointments. 
 And sir doubt not but I will proceed with them like one that hath a 
 good cause and hopeth not in it, and yet will shew confidence both in it 
 and them to draw it either to a good issue or an honest surcease. This 
 morning while I attended in my Lord Suffolk's outer chamber Sir 
 Robert Mansfield [Mansell ?] came to me and asked where you were 
 and how it came to pass that he heard not of you. I told him as you 
 directed me that 1 heard you say you had written by one of Brirnincham 
 (Birmingham ?). Then he asked me what you resolved in the matter. 
 I answered that this term I thought you would be at London and would 
 both answer him directly and give him reason why you would not 
 sooner resolve. Then I ventured to ask him whether he had made any 
 way with the Lords. He suddenly answered that he had and a little 
 after bethinking himself of my question asked why I made that demand. 
 J told him that I had no other end in it but to understand how far he 
 would look that you should proceed for him in it, because 1 supposed 
 you would not make it your suit either to the King or to the Lords. 
 Then he answered that he doubted not to find free passage and would 
 desire nothing from you but. your resignation and if need were to signify 
 that you desired that he should have it before another. For the rest he 
 would give you royal satisfaction and would moreover do whatsoever you 
 should require of him either for your clerks or otherwise. L was not. 
 willing to continue longer speech with him or to engage you any way 
 or to take notice of any agreement ; only 1 left him as 1 found him to 
 entertain or refuse as you should see occasion, and so took occasion to 
 part. Only he told me that he was presently to go to London where he 
 lodged at one Mr. Harris his house near the new great inn in Fleet 
 Street till Friday morning and then was to ride away into the country, 
 and desired me to send him word thither if 1 heard more from you. 
 To-morrow the King hath appointed the Hishops to be again before him, 
 and if neither then nor on Thursday the Fords will find a time for us. 
 1 shall hope no longer and will call upon them for my despatch it' 1 
 find no cause to the contrary in the meantime. Sir John Trevor is 
 assuredly gone towards Wales and will be absent fj days at the least.
 
 54 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION- 
 
 My Lord spoke with the Auditor this day being in my company, but no 
 word of our business though heretofore of himself he did mention it to 
 him at Winchester. Presently after he was despatched away but hath 
 promised to be ready whensoever Ave need him. And if we can but 
 come so far that his credit may do good I shall hope more than I do, 
 Thus with humble recommendation of my duty and service I take leave. 
 Sir Robert told me that Sir Richard Leveson was gone into the country 
 and had a letter to you and purposed to see you in his journey and to 
 deal with you about that business. 
 
 1604-5, January 18. Trusley. Francis Coke to John Coke at 
 Deptford. 
 
 I have sent my man to finish mine account in the Exchequer for the 
 subsidy money. ... I thought I had taken order the last term that no 
 process should have come down against me, but Sir Henry Fanshawe's 
 promise stood me in no stead. ... I thought to have come up myself 
 but I find the times somewhat dangerous and am willing therefore to sit 
 at home. I require you if my man should need a piece of money lend 
 him what he needeth and I will repay it. I paid my cousin Bonning- 
 ton' wife 51. as you required. . . . Brother George is here with us. 
 . . . If you continue your mind for the disbursing your money in 
 Derbyshire let me know for here are many offers of sales but few of 
 leases. ... If you lay not out your money otherways I would gladly 
 know whether you would lend 3, 4, or 500/. for a year after 10/. pro 
 cento. You will answer at first you think it not lawful. . . I have cause 
 to thank them whilst T live and my child that lent me money after that 
 rate in my need for otherwise I had had no foot of land at this hour I 
 think : if then you may do so great a pleasure and receive a reasonable 
 benefit yourself I suppose it unlawful not to do it. We have some in 
 Derbyshire take this course, they lend 100/. for a year witnout receiving 
 any interest at the year's end ; if the party confess he hath been pleasured 
 to that value they will restore the consideration, if not they take their 
 money again without interest and lend it to another. This they do 
 most commonly for 6 months to 6 months and make good choice of their 
 debtors and it is as certain for 10/. pro cento as may be. I lay this 
 before you but to consider on, for, brother, in my opinion men are for- 
 bidden to bite and wrong others by lending, not to help and comfort 
 them in their distressed estates. 
 
 My good brother, All that I can for you is my prayer to God for 
 your good prosperity and speedy coming into this country, so commend- 
 ing myself to you commit you to God. Your assured sister, Elizabeth 
 Coke. 
 
 Receipts for 51. and 40s. by William Hill servant to Francis Coke, Esq. 
 
 1604-5? January 18. Hampton Court. John Coke to Sir Fulke 
 Grevill, at Deptford. 
 
 I do still wait in my Lord of Suffolk's eye, but get not so much 
 as one word from him. It pleased my lady this morning passing by to 
 call me unto her, and to tell me that her lord had dealt with my Lord 
 Admiral, but found him very variable, yet the business had been so 
 great that they could not deal so effectually as they would : now they 
 piopoee again to uige him. And this is the present state of that 
 business. Mr. Reynolds assureth me that both my lord and lady will 
 be at Charterhouse in London to-morrow, and will stay there a night 
 at the least. And my Lord Cecil also will be at his house. My 
 Lord of London will be glad of your company at Fulham, and hath 
 lodging in his house for yourself and two men : and for your horses 
 he will give direction that they may be safe in the town which he saith
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 55 
 
 is now clear. If you speak with my Lord of Suffolk at London you Coke mss. 
 shall by him understand whether I can be of use here any longer. 
 And if not you Avill be pleased to let me know how you will have me 
 disposed. Budd is now here, and telleth me that he hath a warrant 
 from the Coun[cil] to Mr. Attorney, Dr. Compton, and to the rest of 
 the King's Counsel learned to look to Sir Robert Dudley's proceedings 
 and to take order that the King have no prejudice by it. He telleth 
 me further that Sir Robert's party have offered to secure the King, 
 but that His Majesty hath absolutely refused composition with him. 
 Of this point I will inquire further, though my Lord Sydney spake 
 to the same effect. Sir Kobert purposeth, as I hear, to proceed in 
 Chancery if he could but procure any party interested against them to 
 join issue there. To that end he hath practised with my Lord of 
 Rutland, who hath married the heir general, and offereth to secure all 
 he holdeth if ho will join with him. His Lordship is said to stand 
 resolute against this offer, and Budd cannot find that any suit is yet 
 beginning. They seem resolved for the Star Chamber and carry them- 
 selves confident as they are wont. Thus in haste, willing to send 
 Robin part of his way to-night that he may be with you seasonably 
 to-morrow. 
 
 1604-5, February 14. Certified Extract by Robert Bowyer from the 
 Patent Rolls of 1 Edward IV. of Grant to William Baron Herbert of the 
 castle, town and demesne of Pembroke, the castle and manor of 
 Goderiche, the demesne and manor of Withinfield in the Marches of 
 Wales and County of Hereford, and also the manor and demesne of 
 Walwenes castle in South Wales, formerly belonging to James late 
 Earl of Wiltshire, and now forfeited in Parliament. 
 
 1604-5, February 19. London. John Coke. "Copy of my letter 
 and accounts sent to Brother Francis." 
 
 Good Brother, At my coming to London I sought all my notes and 
 letters for that account which you sent me so long since, and which you 
 assure me is perfect : and at length amongst my remembrances for 
 Tillington I found it ; and also the acquittances which brother Philip 
 sent me from the College. I have therefore sent you enclosed a true 
 copy of your said account and letter, and have also compared it with 
 the acquittances and with the rental which you sent with it, and have 
 gathered a brief state of all according to the truth. Not that I mean 
 to stand upon other reckonings with you than your own, which shall 
 ever content me. And therefore 1 desire that we may begin our new 
 account only from Michaelmas last as we agreed. And I will be ever 
 ready to acknowledge the good and kindness you did for me both in 
 lending me money and taking pains for me, and when your occasions 
 shall require the like at my hands I will to my power shew my thank- 
 fulness towards you and yours. 
 
 I have inclosed also with the former accounts another note of the 
 disbursement of 50/. which you sent by brother Woodcock, and there- 
 upon I have as you may see disbursed all that sum and 57. os. 4<Y. more 
 for your use. If you please, together with the last Michaelmas and (his 
 Lady day annuity, to send me also this sum I shall be the better able 
 to make a payment which now is required of me for my laic purchases. 
 
 The brief state of our accounts according to Brother Francis' note. 
 &c. &C. &C 
 
 So at Michaelmas 1604 there was due from you to me 19 12 3 
 
 Account of 50A received from you by Brother Woodcock. 
 Ac. " &c. Ac. 
 
 So upon this account you arc indebted unto me - 5 5 4
 
 56 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1604-5, February. Copy of the Earl of Salisbury's letter to the 
 Archbishop of York (Matthew Hutton). 
 
 The papist was carried on the left hand with suspicious blindness, 
 ;.nd the puritan (as your Lordship terms them) was transported on the 
 right hand with unadvised zeal and outrecuidance, the first punishable for 
 matters essential, the second necessary to be corrected for disobedience 
 to the lawful ceremonies of the Church. 
 
 1604, March 13. News from Rome, Venice, Cologne. (No address.) 
 1604-5, March 16. The Brill. Sir Edward Conway to John Coke 
 
 at Sir Fulke Greville's house in Austin Friars. 
 
 Recommends the bearer to be aided by Sir Fulke Greville and Mr. 
 Coke, they may believe what he may say about this place. 
 
 1605, March 18^| 
 
 April 23, | News-letters from J. V. Berchen at the Hague 
 May 26, | a Monseigneur le Chevalier Edouard Conway, 
 June 2, )>Lieutenant Gouverneur de la Brielle. 
 Sept 1- 22, | Nouvelles de part les comptoirs des marchands 
 Nov r 17, | d'Amsterdam, horsde Rome, deVenise,de Cologne. 
 Nov r 24, J 
 
 (1604-5, March). Francis Coke to John Coke at Deptford at Sir 
 Fulke GrevilPs lodgings there. 
 
 Your letters dated the 4th of January I received the 10th of February, 
 otherwise you had received answer by William Hill. It is true the 
 motion of Sir George Savile is broken off by reason the young gentle- 
 woman could Dot like the articles agreed upon by the fathers, whereof I 
 was an eye witness. Sir George Savile promised to assure 400/. by year in 
 present with a goodly house, a park and great store of woods, and to 
 make it up 1,200/. yearly in reversion whereof of old rents were above 
 300/.; and my brother Curzon to assure his lands valued about 600/. by 
 year after his own decease and his wife's if she kept his name, otherwise 
 she to have but half. Other circumstances there were ; but this is the 
 substance. The young maid is brought up under her mother of a very 
 mild disposition, and not uneasy to be governed, of tall stature and for 
 her beauty fit for any man and a likely woman to bear children, about 
 17 years old. Thus have I writ my knowledge of that matter as you 
 required. I have delivered to my brother George such notes as I had 
 in what I am endeavouring myself for Bussy and Babington and 
 Sacheverell which I have not yet perfected as brother George can tell 
 you. I cannot come to a sight of my father's book in Sir Francis 
 Leke's hands which makes these things harder to get. George Fulwood 
 can show you his own pedigree if you require it. It is a long one and 
 fetched far, which makes it ancient. I have not my cousin Bonnington's 
 though he be not the meanest, you shall also receive Holies. I writ by 
 my man to London to know whether your mind continued to bestow 
 your money of a purchase in Derbyshire, for that leases are hard to 
 come by, but I have not answ r er. I thank you for your directions to my 
 man. I am discharged of this money and will not willingly be an officer 
 for those matters again. 
 
 1605, April 28. Francis Coke to John Coke at Wedgnock Park. 
 
 I have sent you by the bearer 9/ ; the residue of 12/. my wife hath 
 bestowed in cloths for you and will bestow. . . I have not sent these 
 cloths now but do defer that until we hear from you. I am upon the 
 sudden to go towards London, for Robert Thacker is in prison, laid up 
 by other men's suits, and now is my time perchance to lose all, as I 
 think it my best course rather to go than send, seeing it is a matter of
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 57 
 
 some weight and hath been put off" by attorneys long months. Thus Coke MSS. 
 with my hearty commendations to you and my sister, hoping to see you 
 both in the country this summer, I take my leave. 
 
 My wife was sorry that I had left out her remembrance to you and 
 my sister. My brother's son is gone into Spain, and therefore I will 
 keep your letters to deliver at his return. 
 
 1605, July 24. Waustead. Sir William Godolphin to John Coke 
 at Preston. [Received 18th August at Beauchamp Court]. 
 
 Sir James Harris, a very worthy gentleman, hath exceedingly pressed 
 me to draw you unto him with a purpose to spend some such hours as 
 he might gain from his attendance on the King in study. His offer is 
 one hundred pounds the year without charge of diet. I shall not need 
 to tell you how powerful he is and what good you may justly expect 
 from him. If you be in London and send your letter to Sir George 
 Carew his house in the Strand I shall have it sent after me, being to 
 attend the King in this progress. 
 
 160.5, September 20. Austin Friars. Sir Foulke Grevyll to John 
 Coke at Preston. 
 
 I presume you are by this time well satisfied with hawking and that 
 a little business will not be unwelcome to you at your friend's request. 
 1 pray you think of this Union now in question. I would confer my 
 own opinion with yours touching the two greatest points of difficulty, 
 Laws, Church. Good John, write me your opinion not by way of dis- 
 course but by heads and short arguments pro et contra. The uniting of 
 Lithuania and Poland would give you light. Castile and Leon, Navarre 
 and Portugal. I hope Sir Francis Vere is settled in his place, he is 
 infinite kind to me. 
 
 1605, September 23. Brill. Sir Edward Conway to John Coke. 
 
 A duel between Sir Thomas and Sir Thomas Roe. Sir 
 
 T. Roe received a hurt in each hand, Sir T. II. a puncture in the 
 
 finger; the quarrel yet rests. Sir T. H. was for a few hours 
 
 banished the army, since restored. 
 
 1605, September 29, "I Monseigneur Sir Edward Conway, Chevalier 
 
 1606, March 31, J et Gouverneur de la Briele. 
 
 (Also these be delivered to Sir Edward Conway, Knight, in Silver 
 Street, London). News from Rome, Venice, Cologne. 
 
 1605, September . La Have, J. V. Berchen a Monseigneur Sir 
 Edward Conway, Chevalier et Gouverneur de la Brielle. 
 
 Monseigneur, etant venu du Camp n'ai voulu manquer de vos 
 seigneuries avertir de ce la qu'est passe, a savoir que son Excellence 
 etant venu dimanche passe avec toute son armee de Dcventer s'est repose 
 sur le soir bien pres de Zutphen et le lendemain (comme on dit) a Heppel 
 et ainsi plus outre jusque a Bislick, et ne pouvons entendre autre 
 nouvelle: Pennemis est en une deuxieme enterprise sur la ville de Beiges 
 sur le Sonn (Bergen op Zoom) mais sont si horriblement debattus qu'on 
 a trouve plus que quatre cents morts excepte ceux lesquels out pi is avec 
 eux, et les autres que sont restes blesses. On dit ici que Sir Edward 
 Studd est demeure mort devant la ville de Beiges mais nous ne le 
 pouvons pas dire pour vrai mais nous le saurons bientot. On dit (pic 
 l'enneinis se voudra faire encore une autre entreprise sur la meme ville 
 mais on espere qu'ils rompront de telle fa<;on leurs dents qu' a un autre 
 fois ils subviendront. Messeigneurs du Conseilde l'Etat out aujourd'hui 
 envoye vers Deventer le Provost tie la Court pour aller guerir le 
 Gouverneur et le Drossart de Linge et les quatre capitaints qui sont
 
 58 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokk mss. tous six en prison a Deventer l'amncener ici a, la Haye pour y faire ad- 
 ministrer justice et pour entendre leur debut, mais j'ai opinion qu'ils ne 
 sortiront point de la Haye sans etre executes car la republique ne seroit 
 jamais content devaut qu'ils seront expedies. Pour cette fois il n'a ici 
 autre nouvelle que je puisse ecrire a vos seigneuries sinon que je prie 
 Dieu de conserver vos seigneuries en sa sainte protection. 
 
 1605, October 29. Fetter Lane. R. Xaunton (M.P. for Helston) to 
 John Coke. 
 
 Yesterday was the first sight I had of the presence chamber, which I 
 observed to be but a mere passage for men of any understanding to go 
 through and little fitter to improve a man in matter of importance than 
 the road between this and Royston. The King hath built there in the 
 house that was the Greyhound which he purchased of the Earl of 
 Lincoln. The Commissioners for the Union being newly come up as 
 yet nothing begun touching that business. The proclamation for the 
 style of Great Britain I presume you will have seen before these letters. 
 Sir Francis Vere lives retired here in London. The Queen is held 
 generally to be pregnant, but no appearance eminent by reason of the 
 short vardugals in use. My Lord of Cranbourne hath farmed all the 
 King's customs for 28,600/. per annum more than was given before, 
 which the world takes for an argument we shall have open traffic with 
 the universe. Such an antipathy we are like to see between James 
 Temple and our ports. I was told by a Scot that the King was re- 
 establishing Bishops in Scotland and for handsel had reserved the Arch- 
 bishops of St. Andrews and Glasgow out of the Duke of Lennox hi 3 
 hands. Some suspended for disconformity but it is hoped the painfuller 
 sort will not abandon their charge and expose their flocks ingruenti lupe 
 qui nimis in dies invalescit, Papismum dico. Sir F. Grevill told me but 
 the other day that his good friend and mine had married Mr. Powell's 
 daughter, a gentlewoman worthy of such a companion. Commend me 
 to yourself and your good father-in-law. 
 
 160.5, October 30. Preston. Mary Coke to John Coke. 
 
 To my loving husband Mr. John Coke give this. 
 
 I sent a short notice to you this week mentioning the receipt of your 
 letters and things sent by Dobs, the carrier, which now I may show 
 more plainly that he sent the wicker basket hither to the house on 
 Wednesday after you despatched from thence. My gown and hat J 
 like very well, and they are very fit for me, but considering our foul and 
 dirty weather though my walks be very few I am loath to carry so much 
 gold at my skirt into the dirt abcut the hou.se which makeih me wear 
 my gown seldomer than I would do. I do acknowledge your kindness 
 and care in sending it so quickly and getting it so well made. By mine 
 own fault I might have had my sleeves too short, but they are well 
 though not so long as my other gowns. The piece of silk you sent me 
 doth serve me well. I have the pintado and gold lace and do defer the 
 making of my kirtle till I hear from you, Now I am speaking of these 
 things I may tell you that you need buy no cradle for I am told that I 
 may have one here within 4 or 5 miles. You speak in your letter of a 
 note you sent me from Abingdon which I never received nor any from 
 the boy my father speaketh of. I am most glad to receive the news of 
 your safe coming to your journey's end, and of your health ever since 
 which I beseech our God continue. I am glad also of your good suc- 
 cess in your business wherein I pray you may prosper to the end. I 
 thank God I can certify you that I am in health and comfort, and do 
 spend part of my time in making baby's clothes, and yet I cannot but 
 think that we are not in our own plact whiles we are so far asunder,
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 59 
 
 which being so let me put you in mind as I do myself fhat we keep our Coke mss. 
 
 minds one, as though we were together, and I pray God to sanctify this 
 
 absence to us, and send us a good meeting when it pleaseth Him and 
 
 bless us and ours as I hope our prayers are not wanting in this behalf, 
 
 neither shall His grace be wanting who must direct us and is the alone 
 
 righteous judge of our ways and consciences. I propose by the next 
 
 to send to you a few words for my brother George at Cambridge, and 
 
 for my sister Dorothy and brother Thomas Coke if I may hear that they 
 
 are now in London, who I hope that you have commended my love unto 
 
 with some small token. I suppose that you have great business almost 
 
 continually, therefore let me show a little care for your great care 
 
 towards [me] to intreat youtake heed of such wet as you speak of that 
 
 I may enjoy you again as well as you went from me. With desiie 
 
 whereof I commend us to Him that doth preserve us and will keep us 
 
 for His heavenly kingdom. 
 
 1605, December 9. Trusley. Francis Coke to John Coke at 
 Preston, near Ledbury. 
 
 Jn your former letters you writ to send to Mr. Swain those linens I had 
 bought for you and answer to your letters, and that within one fort- 
 night, or else yourself should be out of the country, and I should lose 
 that advantage. Now I being not at home wheu your letters came was 
 forced to break that time, and since then I know not where to have 
 you. I have now therefore sent them according to your request. The 
 particulars arid prices I refer to my wife's note inclosed, sealed up with 
 good wax and my seal. . . . for brother Curzon I cannot write much 
 only this, by the advice of his counsel he accounteth his title clear, and 
 if he had taken some of his friends counsel he had had the possession 
 of all or most of the lands at first ; his proceedings are but slow, and 
 where he laboureth friendship I know not. i look to hear from him 
 shortly and if it be anything worth certifying you shall know. 
 
 1605, , London. Sir Edmund Lucye and Frances Lucye his wife 
 to John Coke. 
 
 My hope is you will not live this retired life long, but that you will 
 take some house hereabout that I may sometime enjoy your company for 
 Mr. John Coke was not made for a country life. 
 
 " I desire to be recommended unto you and to your wife, and to you 
 both I wish much good fortune, Frances Lucye." 
 
 1605, . Compton. Grevill Verney to Mr. Coke. 
 Me tenet meriti in me tui et prajteriti memoria et futuri expectatio, 
 ita ut officio deesse nee honestum mihi sit nee tutum. 
 
 1605-6, January 5. Compton. Dame Margaret Verney to John 
 Coke at Mr, Powell's house at Preston, near Ledbury. 
 
 By reason of the Parliament Mr. Verney being very shortly to go to 
 London and there to stay all that time for some reasons that are not 
 lit to be imparted in a letter 1 have gained so much of him as to go up 
 with him. I should be very glad that it might fall out so happily for 
 me and mine as that you might come r.p some time this term. I write 
 to know whether you had any opportunity to propound anything touch- 
 ing your friend Mr. Manners that we may dispose of our thoughts and 
 purposes accordingly, and may neglect no time, but use the best means 
 we can by God and our friends. Remembrances from us both to 
 Mr. Powell and good Mrs. Powell with many thanks for their exceed- 
 ing great kindness to my Domine. Have you remembered Mr. Verney 
 to Mr. Powell for a clerk, lie desires to have a sufficient one.
 
 Coze MSS. 
 
 60 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 (No date.) A paper indorsed " Divers cases touching order for the 
 rack." 
 
 1605-6, February 5. John Newett to Mr. Powell. 
 As to a pateut not yet passed the Great Seal, which should include a 
 grant of past fines. 
 
 1605-6, February 19. A letter to the Lord Chief Justice of Enghnd, 
 the Lieutenant of the Tower, &c, about the examination of prisoners 
 committed about the Powder Treason, wherein power is given to put 
 any of the inferior sort to the manacles so that the Lord Chief Justice 
 or their Lordships be first made acquainted with it and do think it fit. 
 
 1605-6, February 22. A letter to the Lord Chief Justice of England, 
 the Lieutenant of the Tower, his Majesty's counsel learned, John Corbett 
 esquire, or any three of them, wherein power is given them to put the 
 inferior prisoners to the rack with such restriction as in the letter of 
 February 19. 
 
 1608, June 9. A letter to Sir William Waade, knt., Lieutenant of 
 the Tower, Sir Thomas Crompton, Sir John Bennett, his Majesty's learned 
 counsel, or to any three or two of them, authorizing that if Thomas 
 Saithwaite, prisoner in the Tower, shall still persist in his obstinacy 
 and refuse to answer to such particulars as are probable against him to 
 put him to the torture of the manacles, and to threaten him with the 
 rack, thereby to draw the truth from him. 
 
 1606, March 28 
 
 "The arraignment of H. Garnet at the Guildhall in London." 
 A full report (in the writing of Jchn Coke) of the speecli of the 
 Attorney General for the prosecution. 
 
 1606, June 5. London. J. Coke. " Copy of a letter to my loving 
 wife Mrs. Marie Coke." 
 
 I know you will believe me that J write this letter with an unwilling 
 heart, and your father will tell you how I purposed and hoped to have 
 returned with him, and how I am stayed. The time cannot be long, 
 and therefore I find it no wisdom to strive, but rather to endure with 
 patience for a while. Yet as there was no material cause of my sending 
 for in that haste, so there is as small reason to stay me now. But we 
 are governed by humours which are of that quicksilver nature that they 
 cannot be fixed. Well, here I remain, as far divided from myself as I 
 am from you. All my comforts I send unto you, and pray God that you 
 may freely enjoy them, and on that condition shall I more contentedlv 
 want them. Since my coining up I have been most part from London, 
 and besides the confidence 1 had in my present return made; me less 
 inquisitive after messengers to carry letters unto you. When my 
 father cometh back write, I pray you. at large that I may fully know 
 the state both of your body and mind, and particularly what impression 
 this absence maketh in you. In the meantime know this that if I bore 
 you less affection yet the knowledge and respect of our mutual duties, 
 and the laws of marriage, are bonds strong enough to tie all my thoughts 
 and endeavours to a speedy contriving of such a course of life wherein 
 we may continue together without these distractions. Help me herein 
 with your prayers, and if God send no richer means dispose your mind to 
 a settled contentment with that we have, and communicate with me 
 freely how you find your own resolutions sway with you, either by this 
 foreign attendance and striving with the world to seek a better estate, or 
 by a domestical frugality and united councils, and endeavours to improve 
 that small condition which we have already. And when you so open
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 61 
 
 yourself that I inay indeed understand the true bent of your desires and Coke MSS. 
 the constant estate of your mind, whereupon I may build ; you shall sec 
 that you have indeed very great power in me, and that the aires and 
 travails of my life shall be directed to your ends as well as mine own. 
 I know these things are fitter for conference than letters, and I do now 
 but propound them that you may thoroughly consider of them against 
 our next meeting. This morning I attended the Bishop about our 
 cousin Martin, and his purpose is to be at Gloucester in the end of 
 Whitsun week. There at the Vineyard he desireth to confer with him, 
 and he promiseth me that he shall come, and return in safety and free- 
 dom. My counsel is that my cousin should go to him, and hear him 
 patiently, and as much as may be avoid all contending and disputing 
 with him- Only when he hath heard all he will allege he may quietly 
 and mildly tell him that he hath studied the points in question, and that 
 his conscience is so resolved that he cannot lightly or suddenly inform it 
 otherwise. Yet if his Lordship will be pleased by himself or any other 
 to give him arguments in writing that he may with deliberation con- 
 sider of them, he will then either conform himseif or give reason of 
 unsatisfactior.. In the meantime to entreat that he may be freed from 
 his excommunication, and permitred to exercise his ministry so long as 
 it might be without offence. .Now hereunto my cousin would add a 
 promise that he would not meddle in the matter in controversy to dis- 
 turb the peace of the Church, but content himself to preach the doctrines 
 of faith and good life to the edification of his people, then I persuade 
 myself he should both satisfy his own conscience cne better if he were 
 still suspended, and take away all particular exception against him above 
 the rest. If the Bishop charge him with seditious doctrines and scan 
 dais, or any matter of complaints made against him, let him not seem 
 troubled therewith, nor in any case enter into any vehemency of defence; 
 or contestation, but rather modestly and quietly desire his Lordship not 
 to believe such reports. I confess I am not very confident in the 
 success, though 1 have received good words; yet this I can assure you 
 that if my cousin can persuade his mind to this calmness and patience 
 he shall get advantage to himself and to the cause. But if he go with 
 an unquiet heart, and that night thoughts break his sleep and disturb 
 his counsels, then shall he do better to tarry at home, and not prejudice 
 the cause of God's Church by the passions of a man. God guide his 
 meditations to the comforts of truth in love and peace. If L had been 
 with you I would have accompanied him to the Bishop. Now 1 .shall 
 be glad to hear of any good success in his behalf. The inclosed letter 
 and gloves are from my brother George. I send with my father's stuff 
 pins and thread. I am sorry I. cannot send myself with them. Hut 
 this restraint shall I hope not estrange, but rather inflame our desires 
 and affections. It shall, I assure you, add earnestness to mv prayers 
 that God will be pleased to take charge of you and our little one, and 
 supply in it those comforts which are defective in me. 
 
 1606, June 22. Portsmouth. A. Ewfield to John Coke. 
 
 I heard you were in Leicestershire there fast tied in that golden and 
 blessed link that all honest men much triumph in. I thank God I sun 
 very happy and dare brag with any man for the comfort of ji wile. 1 
 am settled here and loth to run new courses, being a long time, :is von 
 know, before I could resolve upon the profession of a soldier. I hear Sir 
 Francis Vere shall succeed my deceased Lord in the government of 
 Portsmouth. 1 would not be found unworthy of the place I hold with 
 allowances from the Suite and held in my Lord's time. It you be now 
 in London I pray talk with Sir F. Greville and bestow two words upon 
 me.
 
 62 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1606, June 22. London. R. Naunton (M.P. for Helston) to John 
 Coke. 
 
 The Earl of Hertford is returned honourably from the Archduke some 
 12,000/. poorer than he went. You have heard how the Hollanders 
 drove some of the Spaniards aground twixt Dover and Sandwich, much 
 encounter in discourse to incline His Majesty pro and contra. We hear 
 that Sir Robert Drury hath slain Sir Robert Killegrew in duel in Spain. 
 The King and Queen begin their progress the 13th of the next, and mean 
 to visit Oxford about the end of the month, and so to return to Windsor, 
 as the gists tell. The Star Chamber professedly against Recusants and 
 their irregularities in Herefordshire, whereof you are like to hear more. 
 All justices of peace that have wives or children, servants, aud farmers, 
 to any proportion of that profession to be put out of commission. His 
 Majesty seems to be most disaffected with such as be fallen from our 
 Church since his entrance, and directs his officers to be most particularly 
 inquisitive after them of all other. 
 
 1606, July 1. London. John Coke to his wife. 
 
 I will give you account of a sermon preached here this last Sabbath by 
 a zealous minister of very good note, which I wish my cousin M. and all 
 who prefer conventicles before the public and ordinary service of the 
 church had heard and understood. If my relator (for I was not present 
 at this sermon) had remembered more I would not have spared paper to 
 send you the rest. But this may suffice to let you see that good men 
 here begin to take knowledge of this factious doctrine which the 
 unseasoned zeal of some as it seemeth hath lately brought hither from 
 those parts to make our rent greater, and instead of reforming to ruin 
 our Church. In the true and inward exercises of repentance, of faith, 
 of love, of good works and duties, and of a subdued and humble spirit 
 and will, I desire more and more to have many experiments, and gages of 
 the true concurrence of your spirit and mine, that in our religious union 
 we may both feel together the growth of Christ in us in the truth of our 
 hearts. 
 
 1606, July 11. Fetter Lane. R. Naunton to John Coke at 
 Preston. Leave this with Mr. Powell at the White Swan in the 
 Strand. 
 
 Shall long to be resolved of your heal[thful] recovery. I settle my 
 hopes after God upon your kind nurse there, to whom, with her good 
 mother, I pray let me be respectfully commended. The Xing of 
 Denmark hath been at sea with 8 sail, 200 choice gentlemen and 
 3 months victual now 24 days, 2 of His Majesty's pinnaces are 
 with him cast upon the coast of Norway. But his constancy is greater 
 than that of the weather, and of this our infectiousness here he hath no 
 notice where he is. Father Baldwin discovered to have practised a 
 young English convert to despatch the Earl of Sarum which His 
 Majesty takes as ill as any plot against his own person. My Lord 
 Chancellor did extraordinarily relieve them that were put in to supply 
 the silenced and deprived ministers places as praeter orbitum juris 
 communis; which they pressed to their restitution. But the current 
 ways of law might have ruled the case. 
 
 1606, July 19. Francker in East Friesland. William Hart to John 
 Coke at Preston, in Herefordshire. 
 
 " The Lord's good will be done, whose mercy I expect, being deter- 
 mined if he lend me more life to remove the next spring into England. 
 I and my wife do most heartily salute yourself and yours."
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 63 
 
 1606. Considerations why the charge of the ordinary in harbour Coke mss. 
 hath been increased aud may now be reduced to a lower rate. 
 
 f Benjamin Gonston. 
 Successive Treasurers of the Navy - <^ | ^ke^vm, S '41 Eliz. 
 
 |_Sir Robert Mansel, 1604. 
 
 1606. Sir Richard Verney to John Coke at Preston. 
 
 We have after many visitations of many kind friends at last attained 
 to Beauchamp Court. I have as effectually perfected my business and 
 brought that to as good effect as Mr. Powell hath done his cause of 
 the Marches. Remember the friends of Compton shall be as glad to 
 find you within our walls as any be where you are most welcome, 
 Mrs. Coke excepted. 
 
 (1606). Relation of the operations of Spinola on the Maese (capture 
 
 of Grolle) and of Bucquoy near Schenk-Seonce on the Lower Rhine. 
 
 1606-7, January. Beauchamps Court. Mr. Collins to John Coke. 
 
 The Bishop of Hereford has not taken away my letters of orders, he 
 has only hindered my ministry in his diocese. Account of unsuccessful 
 suit by the Bishop for a heriot. I pray you be my remembrancer for 
 what liberty in the ministry may be had above with the Archbishop. 
 
 1607, July 21. Whitehall. Thomas Coke to John Coke, Preston. 
 Birth of a son of Lord aud Lady Arundel. The King, the Lord 
 
 Chamberlain, and the old Countess of Shrewsbury by her deputy the 
 Lady Arabella made it a Christian. If you list to have little .Joseph to 
 be page to my Lord Maltravers, I will make the best means I can for 
 his preferment thither. The Lady Rich fell sick, sent for Doctor Lay- 
 field, disclaimed her last marriage, sent to her first husband to ask for- 
 giveness, and died penitently. 
 
 1607, October 27. Compton. Margaret Verney to John Coke, 
 Austin Friars. 
 
 Asks Mr. Coke to make a proposition to Mr. Nairn ton for her 
 daughter Mall : but if he find in him a greater inclination for her 
 daughter Nane, then to entertain it for Nane ; but to use all the powers 
 of a friend to have him for one of them. 
 
 1607, November 3. Trinity Hall. R. Naunton to John Coke at 
 Sir FulLe Greville's house hard by Tottenham Cross, or in his absence 
 thence at Sir Fulke Greville's house at the Austin Friars in London. 
 
 I could not in deed resolve myself touching all the ends of my so 
 intended Suffolk second journey till [ should have cleared my judgment 
 by particular conference with you concerning your late discourses and 
 mine. I am half jealous I shall not be so happy as to enjoy you here. 
 It is like Mr. Greville Verney will come down. Whether yourself can 
 cast to come with him or rather to meet before him (quod valde vellein), I 
 must leave to your convenience. How long 1 shall think till I may receive 
 your next, I shall thus leave to your construction, 
 
 1607, Christinas Day. Compton. Dame Margaret Verney to John 
 Coke at Preston, at Mr. Powell's. 
 
 I lived in hope that you would have come down by me till the last 
 night when I understand you have been in the country about these 
 three weeks. My businesses being such as I know not how to impart 
 them by letter. 1 pray God send Mrs. Coke a safe and speedy delivery.
 
 64 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. Let me once again entreat you coming by me as you go up to London or 
 afore. 
 
 (1607), . Compton. (xrevill Verney to John Coke. 
 
 Mr. Coke, I am in sort acquainted with the late business my mother 
 told me she had written to you about concerning my sister Mary, and 
 us one that wishes well to both sides, especially to those that nearest 
 concern me, cannot but have my heart and mind wholly attentive upon 
 a matter I so earnestly desire. My entreaty to you at this time is to let 
 me know if please you by your answer what you think is likely to come 
 of it, and whether you imagine the end will be answerable to our 
 expectations and hopes ; and further how long you conceive it will be 
 before you can come to have any knowledge or guess at it, for 1 know 
 no news I can send will be so welcome into our country as of the going 
 forward, at leastwise of the stirring in that matter. I say not this as 
 one that meaned to be a director or any manner of dealer in your 
 councils for the choice of your times; but only out of the freedom of 
 my love to you and certain assurance of your good interpretation which 
 makes me presume to make known my inward affection where I assure 
 myself they shall be honestly and lovingly entertained without any 
 manner of scorn or neglect. You are so private at Tottenham that I 
 was out of hope of coming to speak to you and Mr. Hopton undertook 
 to convey my letters to you secretly without any suspicions from any- 
 body, 1 will leave to be more troublesome to you at this time, only I am 
 careful how to commend my best love to one of my best friends. 
 
 1607. J. Coke to Sir F. Grevill. Particulars of his examination 
 of the accounts of Thomas Cox and Mr. Willis, servants of Sir F. 
 Grevill. 
 
 1607-8, March 18. Gloucester. Sir William Cooke to John Coke. 
 
 For my land in Lancashire I would fain sell it and rather to him 
 whom I know than any man. 1 have not time now to be long but I 
 will send to you at large to inform you of what I have there per 
 annum. 
 
 1608, April 19. Trusley. Francis Coke to John Coke at Preston 
 near Ledbury. 
 
 ... I understand that your building goeth up now apace. . . . God 
 send you good success. . . . Ave will expect you here the week after 
 Easter. ... let us see my sister and little Joseph here this summer, 
 for I and my wife quite long to see them. My brother Pussy and 
 my sister are well. We heard from them the s.ime day your messenger 
 came. I rather choose to write it here than leave it out. 
 
 1608, April 27. Beauchamps Court. John Coke to Sir Fulke 
 Grevyll. 
 
 I have now gone through all these accompts. 
 thereof what most concerneth you to know 
 thus 
 
 Eeceipts in all places : 
 
 Mr. Mallet 
 
 Edw. Worthington 
 
 William Vyner - 
 
 Total - 
 Payments in all places - 
 
 For the general state 
 and consider standeth 
 
 *. d. 
 
 - 1,289 17 8 
 
 - 1,964 4 11 
 
 - 2,187 12 10 
 
 - 5,441 
 
 15 
 
 5 
 
 
 - 5,414 
 
 9 
 
 7 

 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 65 
 
 And there resteth in the charge of : 
 
 Mr. Mallet 
 
 Mr. Worthington - 
 
 William Vyner 
 
 Total 
 
 s. d. 
 
 523 
 
 157 10 6 
 
 4,373 14 1 
 
 - 5,054 4 7 
 
 COKB MSS 
 
 There remaineth also dues unto you of arrearages of rents the sum of 
 198/. 7*. 6d., which will be soon gotten when you cease to respite them ; 
 there is also reserved unto you all the revenue of your father's estates for 
 this present Lady Day quarter. 
 
 The payments extraordinary of this year were : 
 
 For debts and legacies 
 For purchase of Layfield - 
 For repairing the mills at 
 
 Court - 
 For law causes 
 
 For beasts bought for supply of stock 
 For your work at Warwick 
 
 Total 
 
 And so your ordinary charge did amount to 
 
 For your housekeeping I find the charges thereof in all places this 
 year: 
 
 Stable. 
 
 
 
 s. 
 
 d. 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 1,865 8 
 
 6 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 410 
 
 
 
 Beauchamps 
 
 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 67 14 
 
 2 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 109 10 
 
 1 
 
 f stock 
 
 - 
 
 235 12 
 
 10 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 64 11 
 
 6 
 
 - 
 
 2,752 16 
 
 1 
 
 lount to 
 
 2,661 13 
 
 6 
 
 London and Tottenham 
 Beauchamps Court 
 Wedgnock 
 Over 
 
 Total 
 
 s. d. 
 
 603 4 1 
 
 41 6 4 
 
 48 2 11 
 
 20 8 4 
 
 713 1 8 
 
 s. d. 
 
 291 2 6 
 
 17 2 
 
 101 3 3 
 
 409 5 11 
 
 The stable charge may haply be lessened by good order and by bring- 
 ing all your race to one place, which if it be at Beauchamps Court and 
 that you think the Coningree be cold and wet for your colts then there 
 is no remedy but you must impale or rail Auster fields. And if you 
 resolve to reduce your race to one place and to keep fewer houses I 
 suppose you may well maintain your state according to the proportion 
 you now hold for 2,000/. by the year ; and what more shall accrue to 
 you to employ in your buildings or otherwise as God shall dispose 
 you. 
 
 Notes by John Coke : 
 
 In Leafield Mares 14. Colts 9. 
 
 In Wedgnock Park Mares 8. Colts G. Nags 8. 
 
 In Wedgnock Stable Horses 6. 
 
 The number of red deer 108, of fallow about 1,500. 
 
 At Warwick Mr. Oldhall hath the Temple farm at 140/. 
 
 Mr. Hunt hath part of Leafield at 24/. 
 
 The great meadow of Leafield may have 30 beast joisted in to it. 
 
 U 24963. k
 
 6 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 66 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokeMSS. (1608), June 1. Trusley. Francis Coke to John Coke at Preston, 
 and in his absence to my sister his wife. 
 
 I have sent you three kine more and a bull. The bull is but two 
 years old and of good breed. Two of the kine were from my wife's 
 dairy, the third was bought. ... I will reckon for them when we 
 meet. I am very desirous they should prove well and that God would 
 bless their increase. They are marked with the same burn that the 
 first were. 
 
 A note subjoined by John Coke. 
 
 The bull bought of Gregson at Grange Field (Trusley) 
 
 for - - - - - - 3 13 4 
 
 The cow bought of Wm. Blood of the Lees (Dalbury) 
 
 without any calf for - - - - - 3 
 
 The cow and calf "1 _ , ,, ^ , , / 5 
 
 rr ,, , . >> or my brother s store - - < . 
 
 The cow being J l * 
 
 the same sort with the former heifers but without a calf brought by 
 George Hanson, 4 June 1608. 
 
 1608, September 17. Gloucester. T. Morton, Dean of Winchester, to 
 Mr. Coke at Mr. Powell's house at Preston. 
 
 Your brother Thomas Coke (I might truly have said my brother) 
 hath resolved to travel countries, and to that purpose hath at length 
 obtained a dismission from His Lordship in whom as in a second self 
 I do greatly rejoice, having so an experimental touch of his Christian and 
 religious heart, and do not doubt but that his travels shall make him 
 more complete, his intentions are so holy and good. I am now at 
 Gloucester to discharge my duty in exchanging. I pray you commend 
 me unto your dearest wife. 
 
 1608. Endorsed by Coke : " A note of the grounds at Beauchamps 
 Court to be set." 
 
 Site of the house, Little meadow by the house, Miln Closes called 
 Barn Closes (being the ground betwixt the miln, the house, &c.) Priory 
 Meadow, Priory Orchard, Groves and Pittance, Hopyard , Brickclose, 
 Neats, Colton Meadow, Colton Grove, Alcester (hither and further) 
 Coniegree (little and great), Lodge Close, Barn Close, Wood Meadow, 
 Park Meadow, Milnes. 
 
 1608. A note by Coke of the net year's revenue of all Sir Fulke 
 Grevils lands. 
 
 s. d. 
 
 Warwickshire Alcester, Haslor, Corley, Beauchamps Court, 
 
 Over- - - - - - - 734 13 2 
 
 Staffordshire Robaston, Hyde Coperhall and Dunston, 
 Litewood Bromshall and Strangshall, Crackmarsh, 
 Dilron and Fansbrooke, Pinckridge - - - 178 18 6 
 
 Lincolnshire Tothill and Gaiton, Frampton, Helpringham, 
 Biker, Scredington, Ropsley - 
 
 Leicestershire Kilmondcote - 
 
 Northamptonshire Coten under Gilsborough 
 
 Cambridgeshire Longstanton, Steeplemorden "1 
 
 Hertfordshire Cottied [Caldicote] J " 
 
 Herefordshire Esnor - - - 
 
 Glocester (County of the City) Longford 
 
 Slocestershire Tithrington - 
 
 Somersetshire Glutton, Pointington 
 
 Temple Farm and Leafield - 
 
 564 
 
 6 
 
 2 
 
 19 
 
 12 
 
 
 
 106 
 
 13 
 
 2 
 
 136 
 
 6 
 
 4 
 
 36 
 
 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 
 60 
 
 
 
 
 
 51 
 
 5 
 
 7 
 
 240 
 
 
 

 
 HISTOEICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 67 
 
 Gosberton -----_. 
 
 Office in Wales ---__. 
 Oath money ._-._. 
 
 Wines --.___. 
 Hackney ------. 
 
 Besides Wedgnock Park, Beauchamps Court Park, Gos- 
 berton, Canck [Cannock], Shenston. 
 
 Total - 
 
 s. d. 
 
 180 
 
 800 
 
 200 
 
 550 
 
 200 
 
 4,062 5 5 
 
 (1608?) The progress and state of certain debts for which the late 
 Queen gave bonds and letters patent, claimed in the name and by the 
 last will of Sir Horatio Palavicino by his widow, who in 1601 married 
 Sir Oliver Williams alias Cromwell. 
 
 1608-9, February 20. Sam. Hoptou to John Coke. 
 
 My master appoints to go into Warwickshire. He and I are now 
 upon the point of parting he made me offer of Mr. Willis' his place, 
 but for sharp usage before the offer I refused to accept thereof with 
 this resolution to myself that where I serve I would willingly have 
 my heart and hand join, which with his ordinary usage will hardly be. 
 
 1609, April 11. London. Auditor Robert E wens to John Coke. 
 
 My landlord hath been lately punished by 3 weeks fleeting for 
 20 lines of news writing, being but ordinary and current about the 
 town, there being only a mixture of a little untruth in it. We have 
 much news here of the opening of letters, which makes every man more 
 fearful, yet will not I be afraid to write my mind and send my letters 
 by well chosen messenger to my honest friends. 
 
 1609, April 17. Heynam. Sir Richard Verney to John Coke at 
 Preston, in his absence to John Powell. 
 
 . . . to-morrow being Tuesday in Easter week, the 18th of this month, 
 we all your friends of Compton dine at my cousin Edward Morrissy's 
 at Heydon Court, which being somewhat near you I would hope with 
 convenience your little son might be brought thither, who hath an im- 
 perfection in his eye that my Mall Verney might have a sight of him, 
 whose success in that practice is very extraordinary and much more 
 beneficial she might be to yours to whom we so heartily affect all good. 
 
 1609, May 1. London. Edward Reed to Mr. Coke at Wedgnock. 
 The sickness increaseth. The Virginians go forward the next 
 week. 
 
 1609, June 2. Bromsbarrow. John Stock and John Coxe to Mr. 
 Coke at Hall Court. 
 
 Salutem in Christo sempiternam. Parker and G. Norris will not yet 
 give over your work but upon their credits they will not be absent a 
 day in any man's work until it is finished. 
 
 1609, June 12. News Letter in French from Rome (names of 18 
 newly created Cardinals) from Venice and from Cologne. 
 
 1609, July 1. Goodrich. George Moore to John Coke. 
 
 95 bars of iron paid for. 
 
 1609, September 5. The Shire Hall in Nottingham. Francis Coke. 
 [No address.] 
 
 Having so convenient a messenger as this gentleman, my old friend, 
 who in also desirous to renew his acquaintance with you and being a 
 
 e 2
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 68 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 landed man is that country where you dwell. . . . Mr. Ca[rey] will be 
 in the country about - Michaelmas as- he writ to me, but is constant for 
 the deferring of the matters. - I have- signified unto him my acceptance 
 of his offer of 300/., and he hath promised performance at his coming . . . 
 I forget not your motion for 300/. in your last two letters, but until 
 his coming you can have no certain answer. 
 
 1609, October 3. Leghorn. Thomas Coke to John Coke. 
 
 I came from Geneva the 2nd of September. That town beginneth I 
 think to give way to so much of their neighbour Swisses disposition 
 as may in time bring in a great alteration. If I had time I should 
 write to Doctor Morton to let him know that some of the ministers 
 there who otherwise like and commend much his books, do yet think 
 themselves scandalised by his sharp reprehension of Fayus. It is concern- 
 ing an imputation laid by the Doctor on Beza. Fayus is a modest and 
 learned man. 
 
 1609, November 14. St. John's in Cambridge. Dr. Allott to George 
 Coke. 
 
 Prescription and treatment for child's eye. 
 
 1609, December 22. Eichard Carrick to John Coke at Preston. 
 
 I showed Mr. Deighton your note concerning my godson, he saith 
 the course already taken hath been very good only he would have had a 
 ligature for keeping the eye in his place. Upon his return from 
 Loddenham you shall understand his deliberate opinion. 
 
 1609-10, January 3. Compton. Sir Richard Verney to John Coke 
 at Preston. 
 
 A better errand a man cannot be gone upon than to know how you 
 Mrs. Coke, Mr. Powell, Mrs. Powell, and your little crew do, to whom 
 we wish as much good and comfort as any friend you have. It doth 
 much concern me to be inquisitive how your neighbour the young 
 gentleman doth, intend to dispose of himself. If you can any way gues3 
 of his disposition or his inclinations to dispose himself or to be disposed 
 by his friends I pray you vouchsafe me your best and most perfectest 
 information. Sir Horace Vere and Sir Edward Conway are of principal 
 employment in the Barriers for the young prince this Twelvetide. This 
 Christmas time your friend Greville Verney avoided the expense at 
 Paris and went to Orleans and Blois and now he intendeth to return to 
 Paris. At Easter he undertaketh his journey to visit the principal cities 
 of France and will conclude at Geneva, where staying a month he will 
 go forward into Italy. 
 
 [On this letter Coke made notes, probablv relating to property of Sir 
 Fulke Greville.] 
 
 1609-10, January 20, Charterhouse. Edward Reed to J. Coke. 
 Nothing to advertise you of but court plays and triumphs, which I think 
 you care not for. 
 
 1609-10, February 28. St. Paul's Churchyard. R. Naunton to 
 John Coke. 
 
 The King's application for supply for creation of Prince and aid to 
 Protestants abroad. His debts by the great husbandry of the new Lord 
 Treasurer drawn down from 1,400,000/. to 300,000/. The House of 
 Commons desires satisfaction as to Court of Wards. Sir F. Grevill gone 
 to Cambridge to comfort Doctor Nevill and to see if change of air will 
 repair his own health which this unseasonable winter together with the 
 restless working of his own thoughts hath much distempered.
 
 2,350 
 
 8 
 
 11 
 
 70 
 
 
 
 
 
 121 
 
 
 
 
 
 828 
 
 
 
 
 
 800 
 
 
 
 
 
 13,214 
 
 13 
 
 7 
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 69 
 
 1609-10, March 24. A note by Coke, " The general state of all the CokeMSS. 
 accompts for Sir Fulke Grrevil for this vear 1609." 
 
 s. d. 
 Moneys which remained in arrearage upon the 
 
 last accompt ending 24th March 1608 - 5,565 10 
 
 The revenue of this year contained in the 
 
 receipts of your officers out of all your 
 
 manors and lands - 3,479 14 8 
 
 From your officers in Wales (Mr. Powell and 
 
 Thomas Cox), for the patent of wines ; from 
 
 John Swaine for the ironworks and Pen- 
 
 kridge - 
 
 More for the sale of Shenston Park - 
 For the exchange of gold ... 
 For debts paid by the Earl of Shrewsbury, Sir 
 
 Richard Verney, and by Mr. Harris 
 More borrowed of Mr. Terrie 
 
 Total of all receipts and stock - 
 
 Out of this there hath been paid as followeth : 
 
 For husbandry, day labour, and necessary 
 charges thereof at Over, 42/. 15s. 4<f. ; 
 Shenston, 16/. 8s. 10c?. ; Beauchamps Court, 
 42/. 3s. lOd. ; Leafield, 18/. 13s. lie?.; 
 Wedgnock, 82/. 12s. 9d.; and at Hackney, 
 18/. Os. 8d.; in all - - - - 220 15 5 
 
 For cattle brought to stock Over, Leafield, 
 
 Wedgnock, and Hackney - 365 9 10 
 
 For diet, house-keeping, and board wages at 
 London and Hackney and Harold's Park, 
 587/. 2s. 2c?. ; Beauchamps Court, 
 20/. 16s. 86?.; Wedgnock, 137/.; and at 
 Over, 36/. 17s. 6c?. : in all- - - 781 16 4 
 
 For servants wages and allowances at Beau- 
 champs Court, 39/. 4s. ; Wedgenock, 
 52/. 17s. 6c?.; Hackney and London, 
 120/. 2s. 9c/.; and for boys and children, 
 43/. 1 Is. 4&?. - - - 275 1 3 7 
 
 For charges of the stable at London and 
 Hackney, 250/. lis. 9c?.; at Wedgnock, 
 78/. 4s. 4c? , and at Beauchamps Court, 
 1/. 16s. 10c/.; in all 330 15 11 
 
 For travelling charges - - - 106 3 8 
 
 For household stuflf, 60/. 3s. 4d. ; and apparel, 
 
 139/. Is. 2d. - - - . 199 A 7 
 
 For charge of garden at Hackney, 9/. Os. lc?. ; 
 and Hopyard at Beauchamps Court, 
 14/. Os. U/. ; atid Wedgnock. 61. 12s. 10c?. - 29 13 1 
 
 For rents (Canok, Wedgnock, Warwik, Temple 
 Farm, Leafield), annuities, tax, subsidy, 
 tithes, legacies, and such like issues - 365 16 11 
 
 For law charges - - - - 163 15 8 
 
 For buildings and reparations at Warwick 
 Castle, 450/. 17s. lie/.; at Hackney, 
 296/. 10s. 4c?. ; at Over, 1/. 4s. 6d. ; and for 
 trees bought in Leafield, 20/. - - 748 12 5
 
 70 HISTORICAL MANUSCEIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 d. 
 
 For the purchase of Hackney and Gospeton, 
 
 redemption of plate, for debts, money sent 
 
 to Mr. Harris, and all other foreign and 
 
 extraordinary payments - 7,562 15 8 
 
 And there remaineth in stock upon Mr. Malet's 
 
 accompt, 543/. 10a\ Ad. ; William Viner's, 
 
 1,533/. 16*. 9d.; Edward Worthington's, 
 
 24/. 17s. 3d. ; Samuel Hopton's, 4/. Is. 9d.; 
 
 and Mr. Baskervile's 17/. 14s. Ad. ; in all - 2,128 5 
 
 Total - 13,214 13 7 
 
 1610, April 18. Trusley. Francis Coke to John Coke at Preston 
 near Ledbury. 
 
 It is now full time for your artichokes, I have also sent you five more 
 for that I cannot furnish you as I would for it. ... I have sen' you 
 Mr. Carey's letter and my answer thereunto and now it is past I ask 
 your counsel, but I did wish heartily that I could have spoken with you 
 before, my sister taketh the matter very heavily for he writ to her to th:j 
 same effect and plainer if plainer could be. I gather his meaning to be 
 to put it off until he get a bishopric. I have wished twenty times since 
 that the contract had never been, as matters fall out we were none of us 
 well advised and I see what it is to deal with a man of his conscience. 
 She hath written to him so as he may perceive her discontented with it. 
 I pray you send me this letter back again, and commend me most, kindly 
 to my sister and little Joseph and rememher me to Mr. Powell and Airs. 
 Powell. 
 
 1610, May 10. Charterhouse. Thomas Harewell to Edward Reade 
 at Bath. 
 
 If in Michaelmas term that which I expect be paid me I can pleasure 
 your friend with 300/., he is of my ancient acquaintance and his worth 
 and virtue well known to me. Sir Edward Conway and Sir Richard 
 Verney write to our noble cousin all the news which I pray you instruct 
 yourself well with and impart it to my sister the Lady Lygon. Offer 
 my service to that right worthy knight with whom you now fire and my 
 choicest salutations to my good sister, her worthy bedfellow, to my 
 cousin Mary Lygon and to Sir William Lygon. 
 
 1610, May 14. Bath. Edward Reed to John Coke, Preston. 
 
 The French King stabbed to death in his coach, coming from the 
 coronation of his Qneen. At the instant, after our example, the Dauphin 
 was proclaimed King. Sir Fulke is merely better than you left him. 
 
 1610, May 16. London. R. Naunton to John Coke. 
 
 This is only to give you short and hearty thanks for your kind 
 extension of your architectural or rather your architectonical experiences. 
 I have rhapsodically posted the relation of our parliament proceeedings 
 even in this scribbling character out of a desire that Sir Fulke might 
 employ yourself for his interpreter. To your judgment I refer the 
 matter and to your loves my tumultuary manner of setting it down. I 
 am now extremely surcharged with businesses. 
 
 1610, June 24. Austin Friars. R. Naunton to John Coke. 
 
 Our house holds out yet firm beyond our own hope and expectation 
 which encourageth us how to conceive the better of our future constancy. 
 Jacta alea est. Though we are not passed the Rubicon yet are we
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 71 ' 
 
 crept on so far as by the event of this parliament it will make a judgment Coke mss. 
 of the estate of an English subject what it is like to prove for my life- 
 time. 
 
 1610, August 10. Padova (Padua). Thomas Coke to John Coke. 
 
 Your last letter dated about November last came to my hands about 
 the last of July last. Count Fuentes is publicly known to be dead and 
 thought to have been so within 10 days as long as the King of France. 
 I pray to God that you may do all well at Preston and at your Court, 
 whereof I have forgot the name. Mr. Hamond writ me late word that 
 my late packet cost him 7f. which was more by 70 sols than it was 
 worth, but I am fain to measure my packets and desire that that may be 
 my excuse to my brothers and sisters and other friends. I hear of such 
 marrying amongst them that I consider how well I fled least I should 
 have married under age too. Vale mi frater. 
 
 1610, November 6. London. William Vyner to John Coke et 
 Wedgnock. 
 
 I met with your brother Thomas (thanks be to God) he is well, only 
 travel hath made him look somewhat older. The Prince hath a grant 
 from the King of 21,000/. per annum, whereof 12,000/. is of fee farm 
 rents and the rest old rents. He shall have divers officers in his house 
 as Sir Thomas Chaloner, Chamberlain, Sir Arthur Savage, comptroller, 
 Mr. Newton, secretary. Last week I sent your dialling book and six 
 glasses for Mrs. Coke. My master very weary of London would fain 
 go to some other place, for his horses still continue in their glanders that 
 he can take no recreation by them. We have now a complete stable of 
 26 horses at rack and manger. I have nothing else to speak of but bay 
 berries, but they are not ripe. 
 
 1610, December 7. William Vyner to John Coke at Hall Court. 
 
 I have not yet received your 100/. from John Skinner, nevertheless 
 I have provided the money for you, paid it into the Exchequer and have 
 received your two bonds. We shall go from hence on Monday morning 
 towards Warwickshire. Bay berries I bring with me into Warwick- 
 shire where I make no question but I shall see you. 
 
 1610. Report on the coal mines at Clutton (co. Somerset). 
 
 There be now three pits near Widow Blacker's house, the highest 
 about 4 fathoms, the middle 6 fathoms, the lowest 8 fathoms deep. At 
 these depths they cut out their lanes about 4 feet high and broad. They 
 need no great store of timberwork for support. The lane we crept 
 through was a good quoits cast in length, wherein we found but two 
 cross lanes, whereby it may appear that the mine is yet but newly 
 entered into. They now work in two pits at once, and have below two 
 or three men and four or five boys, and also three men two wind up the 
 coals. At the end of every lane a man worketh, and there maketh his 
 bench, as they call it, and according to the vent they make more or 
 fewer benches. The wages allowed to the men is to him that hath 
 most four shillings the week, and to the boys eighteen pence. Adding 
 for candles, increase of wages for work by night, ropes, sharpening of 
 tools, baskets, &c, the whole week's charge may arise to three pounds. 
 Reckoning 100 horse loads a day at three pence the receipt coming to 
 11. 10*. the week, and the net gain is 4/. 10s., of which one-founh for 
 the tenant and the rest remaineth for the lord. It is said that the 
 works at Timbury are near worn out, and all smiths use the coal of 
 Clutton and none of Timbury. 
 
 1610-1, March 8. Tottenham. Sir Foulke Grevyll to John Coke 
 of Preston.
 
 72 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 My own friend John, it is true that this is the first time that ever you 
 demurred upon any summons of mine. Give me leave to justify myself 
 that since your marriage I have been temperate and respectful ever to 
 that vocation. Be pleased good John to let me know by your next 
 letter about what time you may come to me free. The Bishop of 
 London hath made a new lease without my privity and contrary to his 
 word and the Archbishop hath utterly neglected me in this business. 
 My own portion is to lose my charges, my hopes, pay costs in all suits to 
 him and so sit down with shame. The books were ready and had been 
 sent you but for two reasons. Sir Robert Cotton can give me light, 
 but I must search them out of the original in his house, for part with 
 the books he will not. If you please to appoint the audit at Beauchamp 
 Court to be shortly after Easter, I will meet yeu and bring you up with 
 me for a while. 
 
 1611, March 28. Canon Frome. Sir Richard Hopton to Mr. Coke 
 at Hall Court. 
 
 Understanding that you were collector for the last payment of the 
 subsidy for this Hundred of Radlow, and being desirous to see the 
 estreat whereby you levied the same subsidy, I send this bearer, my 
 man, unto you that I may peruse it, and I will safely return it unto you 
 again. 
 
 1611. A note of the charges of the horses to and from Cambridge 
 from the 3rd of September unto the 7th of the same. 
 
 For walking horses at Mr. Hammond's Lodge - 
 
 For hay and provender at Hodgesden for 10 horses one 
 night - .... 
 
 Paid to the smith for shoeing - - - - 
 
 Paid to the saddler - 
 
 Paid to the ostler - 
 
 Unto a guide from Sir Edward Greville's to Hodgesden 
 
 For horse meat and walking horses at Starforde [Stort- 
 ford] ...... 
 
 For hay for 4 coach mares at Walden - 
 
 For 2 strike of oats at 3s. 4d. the strike 
 
 For bread for them there - 
 
 For liquor for the coach .... 
 
 For hay and provender for 10 saddle horses - 
 
 For straw there for them - 
 
 For Sir Edward Greville's horse charges there 
 
 For leading of horses from Audley Ende to Walden - 
 
 Paid to the ostlers there - 
 
 For hay and provender for 4 coach mares at Cambridge 
 one night ------ 
 
 For liquor for the coach - 
 
 For hay and provender for 10 saddle horses - 
 
 Paid to the smith - 
 
 Paid to the saddler - 
 
 For Sir Edward Greville's horse charges 
 
 For oil and for dressing of a coach mare's and a black 
 nag's feet ------ 
 
 Paid to the ostler - _ - - - 
 
 For loaf bread to Sir Edward Greville's coach mares - 
 
 For 2 shoes betwixt Cambridge and Sir Edward Gre- 
 ville's - - - - - 8 
 
 
 
 s. 
 
 d. 
 
 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 17 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 10 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 11 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 10 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 

 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 7a 
 
 For horse meat at Kingston 3 nights for 14 horses 
 
 To the smith for drenching a mare 
 
 For shoeing there - 
 
 For a mash for the mare - 
 
 For liquor for the coach - 
 
 Paid to the ostlers - 
 
 Summa totalis is 
 
 s. d. 
 
 3 18 8 
 
 2 6 
 
 5 8 
 
 10 
 
 6 
 
 1 6 
 
 10 3 2 
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 Receipts upon this account. 
 
 Of Rowland Revell at Hodesden the 4th September - 14 
 
 Move of him at Walden the oth - - 1 
 
 Of Mr. Coke there - - - - - 1 
 
 At Cambridge of Rowland Revell - - 2 10 
 
 At Hampton Court of Edward Lyne - - 4 12 
 
 Summa totalis is 10 6 
 
 (Probably a journey of Sir Fulke Grevyll from Sir Edward Grevyll's 
 at Haroldscourt, near Tottenham, to Cambridge and back.) 
 
 1611 ?, April 20, st. no. Arundel House. Thomas Coke to Toby 
 Matthew. (Copy.) 
 
 I understand that your return into England having been long 
 laboured by your honourable friends is now procured, but so as you are 
 first to promise that when you are here you will be content to have con- 
 ference with such discreet persons as may be thought fit concerning 
 your taking the oath of allegiance. His Majesty having heretofore 
 resisted all your friends persuasion for your return except you would 
 directly promise to take the oath, and being now drawn to this, I doubt 
 not but you will resort unto your best wisdom and judgment, and hope 
 thereupon to see you here shortly. The obligation which I have with 
 you hath caused me to advertise you hereof with what speed I could. 
 And so wishing you a happy and speedy return I will take my leave 
 From Ar. house (no signature). Postscript. My Lord Grace of York I 
 hear is much contented with this his Majesty's favour towards you, but 
 especially your mother joyeth in it extraordinary. I beseech you sir 
 that my best and heartiest well wishing may be remembered to worthy 
 Mr. Gaye if he be with you. 
 
 No da*e. Composition for Purveyance. 
 
 (1611?) Cornwall, for 40/. with Sir Rd. Bullet, Mr. Harris 
 
 and Mr. Trevis (?) 
 Devon for 140/. with Sir George Chudleigh, Sir 
 
 William Strownd, and Sir Amyas Bamfield. 
 Essex, debuted with the Earl of "Warwick, Viscount 
 Colchester, Lord Petre, Lord Maynard, Sir Francis 
 Barrington, Sir Harbottle Grimston, Sir Thomas 
 Wiseman, Sir Henry Maxin Serjeant Tow.se, Mr. 
 Smith of Cressing Temple, Mr. Audley, Mr. Thomas 
 Fanshawe, Mr. Wright. Note by John Coke, 
 "whereupon differing we brake."
 
 74 
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokb_mss. August 15, Rutlandshire. Note by John Coke. Sir William 
 
 Bowstead and Mr. John Wingfield met us, but 
 having no authority to compound with us we refused 
 to treat with them." 
 
 1611 ? " Journal" in writing of Mr. Coke. 
 
 The days appointed for compc 
 and carriages. 
 
 /. 
 July 6 Berrie for Suffolk 1600 
 
 6 Berrie for Suffolk 
 13 Southwavk for 
 
 Surrey - 
 23 East Greeusted 
 for Sussex 
 
 1500 
 
 - 900 
 
 August 1 Abington for Barck- 
 shire. 
 3 Oxford City (where 
 none met us by neg- 
 lect of the sheriff). 
 6 Alisbury for Bucks. 
 7 Dunstable for Hert- 
 fordshire. 
 8 Bedford Town. 
 10 Huntington Town. 
 13, 14 Stamford for the 
 three divisions in 
 Lincolnshire. 
 15 Oakham for Rutland- 
 shire. 
 17 Leicester (700/.) and 
 
 Notts (700/.) 
 ,, 19 Northampton town. 
 ,, 21 Warwick town. 
 23, 24 Worcester city for 
 that shire, Salop, 
 Herefordshire 
 and Staffordshire. 
 ,, 27 Glocester city. 
 30 Chard for Somerset- 
 shire. 
 Sept. 2 Exeter for Devon and 
 Cornwall. 
 5 Dorchester for Dorset- 
 shire. 
 7 Salisbury for Wiltshire. 
 10 Winchester for Hamp- 
 shire. 
 12 Newberie for Barck- 
 
 shire. 
 13 Henley for Oxfordshire 
 because the Sheriff, 
 Sir Francis Stonard 
 (Stonor ?) had for- 
 gotten to acquaint 
 the country with his 
 letters. 
 14 Colbrooke for Bucking- 
 hamshire. 
 
 lding 
 
 tor 
 
 his Majesty s provisions 
 
 
 
 Miles 
 
 July 
 
 6 
 
 London to Bishop" 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 Starford - 
 
 >63 
 
 5> 
 
 7 
 
 to Berrie - 
 
 J 
 
 >5 
 
 10 
 
 to Cambridge 
 
 20 
 
 J) 
 
 11 
 
 to Harford? 
 to London j 
 
 49 
 
 >> 
 
 12 
 
 
 
 15 
 
 to Chatham 
 
 28 
 
 
 
 19 
 
 to London - 
 
 28 
 
 }J 
 
 22 
 
 to East Greensted - 
 
 23 
 
 J) 
 
 23 
 
 to London - 
 
 23 
 
 JJ 
 
 30 
 
 to Staines - 
 
 15 
 
 >> 
 
 31 
 
 to Abington 
 
 32 
 
 Aug 
 
 ast 2 
 
 to Oxford 
 
 5 
 
 i) 
 
 5 
 
 to Ailsburie 
 
 16 
 
 5> 
 
 7 
 
 to Dunstable 
 
 12 
 
 5> 
 
 8 
 
 to Bedford and 
 
 
 
 
 Huntington 
 
 28 
 
 
 
 9 
 
 to St. Yves and 
 back to Hunt- 
 
 
 
 
 ington - 
 
 7 
 
 >> 
 
 10 
 
 to Stamford 
 
 22 
 
 
 
 12 
 
 to Burley and 
 Worthrop and 
 
 
 
 
 back - 
 
 3 
 
 August 15 to Oakham and 
 
 
 
 
 Leicester 
 
 20 
 
 j> 
 
 18 
 
 by the high sheriff 
 
 
 
 
 to Northampton 
 
 26 
 
 ?> 
 
 20 
 
 to Warwick 
 
 24 
 
 >> 
 
 22 
 
 to Worcester 
 
 22 
 
 >5 
 
 24 
 
 to Halecourt 
 
 
 
 
 (Herefordshire) 
 
 14 
 
 J> 
 
 27 
 
 to Glocester and 
 
 
 
 
 Thornberie 
 
 36 
 
 >> 
 
 28 
 
 to Bristol and Wels 
 
 24 
 
 JJ 
 
 29 
 
 to Glassenburie 
 
 
 
 
 and Chard 
 
 22 
 
 5> 
 
 31 
 
 to Honinton and 
 
 
 
 
 Excester 
 
 22 
 
 Sept. 
 
 3 to Honinton and 
 
 
 
 
 Lime-regis 
 
 22 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 to Brutport and 
 
 
 
 
 Dorcester 
 
 18 
 
 j> 
 
 6 
 
 to B Ian ford and 
 
 
 
 
 Salisburie 
 
 28 
 
 j> 
 
 7 1 
 
 :o Wilton and back 
 
 6 
 
 >j 
 
 9 to Winchester 
 
 20 
 
 
 
 11 
 
 to Whitchurch and 
 
 
 
 
 Nuberie 
 
 20
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 75 
 
 Sept. 17 
 19 
 ., 21 
 
 Chelmsford for Essex. 
 Maidstone for Kent. 
 Inner Temple for Sur- 
 rey. 
 
 /. 
 From Halecort to London 94 
 From London the Circuit 844 
 From London to Halecort 94 
 
 1,032 
 
 
 Miles. 
 
 COKB MSS 
 
 Sept. 12 
 
 to Reading 
 
 15 
 
 
 13 
 
 to Henley and Col- 
 broke - 
 
 20 
 
 
 14 
 
 to London 
 
 15 
 
 
 16 
 
 to Rumford, Burnt- 
 
 
 
 
 wood,and Chens- 
 ford 
 
 25 
 
 
 18 
 
 to Bellerikey, 
 Gravesend and 
 
 
 
 
 Maidston 
 
 33 
 
 
 20 
 
 to Chatham, Dar- 
 
 
 
 
 ford, and London 
 
 3S 
 844 
 
 
 28 
 
 to Hampton Cort 
 and back to Lon- 
 
 
 
 
 don 
 
 24 
 
 
 October 2 to Hampton Cort 
 and Lalam 
 
 13 
 
 
 
 
 3 to Hampton Cort 
 and London 
 
 18 
 
 
 
 4 to Hampton Cort 
 
 5 to London 
 
 12 
 12 
 
 
 November 4 to Theobalds - 
 
 13 
 
 
 
 
 7 to London 
 
 31 
 
 
 > 
 
 12 to Bigrave with 
 with brother 
 
 
 
 
 Francis 
 
 31 
 
 
 
 
 13 to Newmarket 
 
 25 
 
 
 >> 
 
 16 to Bigrave 
 
 25 
 
 
 >> 
 
 18 to London 
 
 31 
 
 
 1,066 
 
 1611-2, February . London. Sir Foulke Grevyll to John Coke 
 at Hale Court or Preston, near Ledbury. 
 
 You may see whether you or I know Samuel [Hopton] better. He 
 intended nothing in that image of honesty he took upon him but to get 
 his 16/. into his hands. I am glad your lather is in Wales. I entreat 
 you both to fashion some better course for the government of these 
 inferior places. For my sake you will help both to stir up John Powell 
 and help him with your best counsel to set down a more orderly course 
 for a yearly account. I will spare Upward to live in Wales for a month 
 or two ; write by the next what you think of this. 1 write in such 
 extreme haste as I doubt you can neither read nor make sense of it. 
 
 1612, October 30. Draft by John Coke, "To my brother W w 
 Powell at Oxford." 
 
 It was my father's desire that I should speak with you in my way to 
 London, but it was my misfortune not to find you at home, or rather 
 yours even then to be carried away from your friends, your study, and 
 your dinner in the Hall by the same company, wherein of late von have 
 cast away your own blessed opportunities and the hopes of your friends 
 if God in his mercy do not speedily humble and reform your heait. I 
 now write I confess in a style which will be as distasteful to you as it is 
 discomfortable to me, who was ever glad both to conceive and speak
 
 76 HISTORICAL. MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. vei 7 hopefully of you even above others. Neither was your tutor more 
 forward to excuse you in all things than I was desirous to send better 
 
 news to our friends. But I find your money wasted without account, 
 your study empty even of the books you had, your exercises neglected, 
 whereby the credit of your scholarship being not kept up by yourself is 
 let fall by others, and which is yet more your unkindly heart to that 
 preferment, for which you are utterly unready, made but a way to more 
 liberty and excess and an evasion from the danger of being cast out 
 from that society to which those are a burden, that being first by ill 
 companions misled become afterwards ill company to mislead others. 
 These you see are real and violent imputations which cannot be answered 
 by words, and therefore in vain shall either I or you labour to apologise 
 or excuse by letters or any means save only by the fruits of an actual 
 reformation of your whole course, which must begin in the very bottom 
 and truth of your heart, where before any good foundation can be laid 
 ail sloth and pride as the quicksands of young men's minds must be 
 utterlv drained and cast out. These are harsh terms I know, which 
 may provoke both your anger and perhaps your scorn against me ; but 
 as I do with all my heart bear witness to those good gifts of wit and 
 ability which God hath given you as talents, of which He will require 
 an account ; so out of the love and bond of our alliance I am bold to tell 
 you information to move you to a further examination of yourself. Do 
 you fashion your carriage and apparel, and do you sort with those that 
 are above you in means and degree to be noted and pointed at, not as a 
 painful student that retireth himself, but as a gentleman courageous 
 and gallant in the eye of the world. Set upon this what flourish the 
 vanity of youth can devise, it is indeed that pride which cast us first out 
 of Paradise, and will in the end deprive us of all the comforts and hopes 
 of this life. Again, do you not contract your library, decline the dis- 
 putations and exercises of your house, and free your mind from those 
 harder studies of Greek ancient and classical authors, and think a 
 Latin Aristotle, a modern Kekerman, and a few trivial epitomes of logic 
 and philosophy to be a sufficient provision for a Master of Arts; then 
 shall you not, with all the rhetoric of Oxford, be able to excuse your 
 sloth, the mother of all vice, that never brought forth reputation nor 
 worth ever. If you allege that as great deficiency is found in others, 
 do you not range yourself amongst those that are the disgraces of learn- 
 ing and burdens of the land. And truly if I should yet more particu- 
 larly show you in how many things you are short even of that mediocrity 
 which is tolerable in a graduate in the arts, though I might make you 
 ashamed of your loitering, which I could be content to do, yet I fear I 
 should thereby discourage you from ever hoping to recover the day so 
 far spent, which is so far from my end that I would rather bend all my 
 earnestness and prayers to make you rouse your spirits and strive to 
 redeem these ruins of your time before it be too late. The truth is that 
 your small proficiency in study and y< ur inordinate expense have so 
 alienated your friends that my direction was to give true information 
 whether it were not best to withdraw you from Oxford. And though 
 in your course I found not one argument to peisuade your continuance, 
 and besides know how hard it is for a young man to reform his ways, 
 yet trusting in God's mercy beyond probabilities, I have entreated your 
 governors to suspend for this year any hard concept or censure of you, 
 and also to persuade your father to make this further trial of your better 
 endeavours, wherein that it concerneth you very much to give them 
 real satisfaction ; let the consideration of the weight of your father's 
 displeasure, your mother's grief of heart, the shame of us your allies 
 and friends, and chiefly the conscience of your error, the fear of God's
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 77 
 
 punishment, and your utter undoing, persuade you. And flatter not your- Cokk MSS. 
 
 self to think these can be prevented with a small change in yourself ; 
 
 you must utterly abandon your town and field companions and converse 
 
 more with the dead than the living ; you must so attire yourself that 
 
 your clothes may keep you at home when your humour may tempt you 
 
 to go abroad ; you must so order your expense that it may appear great 
 
 in nothing but your books ; you must so divide the day that even your 
 
 times of repast and recreation may be times of conference and exercise 
 
 of love. . . . , . 
 
 1612, November 22. Broad Street. Gilbert Talbot, Earl of Shrews- 
 bury, to Thomas Coke at Padua. 
 
 Signor Gabalione is made a knight by the King, who has given him 
 a diamond ring worth 3 or 400/. If my daughter of Arundel's letters 
 be ready, they will come in this packet; both she and my sweet boys 
 are all exceeding well. God grant we may hear good news from you 
 of my Lord of Arundel's good recovery. I have kept your brother 
 from Sheriff this year. Sir Henry Leygh of Egginton is Sheriff. 
 
 1612-3, January 18. Hackney. R. Naunton to John Coke. 
 
 The King still dissolves for want of resolving. Delay gives fuel to 
 infinite opposition and depth of practice. As good and as steady occu- 
 pation is it to write prognostications of the weather as of the State. 
 Sir F. Grevill has been lately sought violently by the King to be one 
 of the Commissioners for the reformation of the Navy. 
 
 1613, February 1, Florence. Filippe Corri All molto Illustre mio 
 Signor Cultissimo il signor Tomaso Coccho in Siena. 
 
 1612-3, February 4. London. Sir Foulke Grevyll to John Coke 
 at Hale Court. 
 
 You may see whether I did not understand Samuel [Hopton's] motives 
 and disposition better than either yourself or John Powell. For my 
 sake devise some other course to ease your father and get a better form 
 of account in those offices. My health mends, God I thank him. I 
 know the worid and believe in God, and commit you both to him. 
 
 1612-3, February. Minutes respecting the Train to atlend the Princess 
 Elizabeth to the Palatinate. 
 
 1. The Duke of Lenox, the Earl of Arundel, the Lord Lisle ; for my 
 
 Lord Harrington to depend upon the King's pleasure, in respect 
 
 of the satisfaction which he demands. 
 
 The Countess of Arundel. 
 
 The Lady Harrington, if her husband go : otherwise some 
 
 other lady to be appointed by his Majesty. 
 
 2. A Commission and Instructions : for the form according to pre- 
 
 cedent, with such alterations as the circumstances require. 
 
 3. The King to be spoken with for their quality. 
 
 5. To her Highness according to the contract. 
 
 To the Commissioners 60 persons to attend the 3 Lords, 
 besides the Lord Harrington's company, if he go. The Duke 9.2, 
 the Earl of Arundel 20, the Lord Lisle 18. 
 To the Countess of Arundel 10 persons. 
 
 6. For the officers and their servants, the Lords to determine of that, 
 
 in their several offices. 
 The Treasurer to be named by the King. 
 
 7. Every Commissioner to have his coach, and the Earl of Worcester 
 
 to give order for a spare coach \o be sent afore.
 
 78 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke_mss, 1613> April 15 Arundel House. Anne Countess of Arundel to the 
 
 Karl of Arundel. 
 
 Particulars of an ague, fever, and evil disposition of my good Lord 
 Privy Seal [Henry Howard, Earl of Northampton]. Your sweet chil- 
 dren be all well. It is said the Bill for naturalizing the Palsgrave and 
 enabling his children to the succession is already come into the house. 
 
 1613, April 29. Broad Street, London. Gilbert Talbot, Earl of 
 Shrewsbury, to Thomas Coke. 
 
 Now after many alterations of this caroche at last it is shipped at 
 Tower Wharf for Rotterdam with H. Ogle and my coachman Thomas 
 Legg. The curtains must come after, for they are not yet finished, 
 nor will be these four days at soonest, which is through my wife's wil- 
 fulness that would suffer no other curtains to go but such as she will 
 needs make after her own fancy. If by my Lord of Arundel's means 
 credit may be given to H. Ogle to buy a little strong Russyne for Sir 
 Charles I will pay the bill of exchange upon sight thereof. I pray 
 you wi'ite to me by this bearer to what place you think I may most 
 conveniently return by exchange the 60/., especially if you go on into 
 Italy. Praying you to continue your writing to me as occasion serves 
 I bid you very heartily farewell. 
 
 1613, May 13. Dublin. Sir Arthur Chichester, Lord Deputy of Ire- 
 land, to the Right Honourable the Lords of His Majesty's most Honour- 
 able Privy Council. 
 
 This bearer, Sir Francis Kingsmill, has occasion to repair into Eng- 
 land and perhaps address himself to your Lordships, I thought it 
 convenient to give him fair ingress to accompany him with these few 
 lines, being a gentleman of special mark for his long services, valour, 
 and devotion in the former troubles of this realm, wherein he had 
 employments, and acquitted himself very worthily. I am very well 
 assured that his modesty is such as if he happen to make any request 
 it will be of some thing that shall be inferior to his merit. 
 
 1613, May 26. Whitehall. Gilbert Earl of Shrewsbury to Thomas 
 Coke. 
 
 It is by four of our Court Bishops much noted that neither Lord 
 Arundel nor my daughter have at any time been at prayers with her 
 highness since they went hence. I have not heard that the King hath 
 heard thereof. 
 
 1613, July 10. Venice. Isaac W r ake to Thomas Coke with Earl of 
 Arundel at Milan. Offering to advance money, as such great merchants 
 as Burlamachi forget sometimes sums which are not in the thousands. 
 
 1613, July 13. Alessandro da Rho. Memoria all Ill mo et Ecc mo 
 Sign. Conte primario in Londra visitato da me Aless ro da Rho sive 
 Rho' Dottor del Collegio di Milano, stato primo Lettor in Pisa all 16 
 Luglio in ultimo in casa del 111. S. Capitano Sociso. Quando legeva 
 (I lectured) in Pisa, amico ivi de Sig r Inglesi intesi esser in Londra 
 la famiglia Roo, overo Rho ; ho desiderato haver l'arma et arbore et 
 historia di detta famiglia. 
 
 1613, August 3. Venice. Isaac Wake to Thomas Coke at Padua. 
 Offering services. If you do refuse to serve yourself of me I shall fear 
 you love me not so much as I desire. If you come not hither the 
 sooner I shall be with you shortly at Padua.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 79 
 
 1613, August 16. Hackney. Sir Foulke Grevyll to John Coke. Coke mss. 
 
 I thank you for the advertisement concerning Wingfield. I know 
 you love home so well as I freely remit your coming up this Michael- 
 mas. 
 
 1613, September 18. Milan. Pietro Martire Martignone. Ill mo et 
 Ecc mo Sign, (the Earl of Arundel). Molto confuso restai nella par- 
 tenza sua di Milano per non haver potuto almeno far le dovuta rive- 
 renza et servitu confbrme all' obligo et desiderio mio : gli priego ad 
 accettare me et le figliuole mie in iscusa. II ricamator ha pronto la 
 mostra che V. Ecc. gli ordino, resta solo che V. E. comandi quello si 
 deva far et sara compitamente da lui servito. 
 
 1613, October 5. London. W. Woodcock to John Coke (his uncle). 
 Prunes and raisins are coming from Malaga. His master will let 
 him deal on his own account. Wants 50/. to begin. 
 
 (1613), December 8. Sutton. Anne Dowager Countess of Arundel 
 to Aletheia Countess of Arundel. 
 
 My own dear daughter, the last week I writ to my son, and now 
 being something abler to hold my pen I do in all love salute your 
 sweet self with many tbanks for the sundry letters, which was a great 
 comfort to me to see when I was so unable to answer them. I thank 
 God I have had a long time, but now my head is something less 
 
 evil, all other weakness is the better borne. God his holy and blessed 
 will be fulfilled. If it please our Lord to send you and my son a good 
 return home that I may see you and my sweet hearts well to meet, it 
 will be my great comfort. It pleased you, my good daughter, to desire 
 to know if you should provide me anythings in those parts you are in. 
 At that time my sickness was newly begun, and now, my good daughter, 
 such things as I think on I will make bold to desire your care in the 
 providing of it ; and what you think best to bestow send me word, for 
 if there be any good pennyworth of tafitiss and tafita sarsnetts that I 
 shall have use for curtains for beds and windows and making of quilts 
 the colours crimson, yellow, green, blue ; a gentell slight silk I hold 
 fitter for my purposes than the stiftest taffites ; and if they make taffita 
 sarsnetts so good as I have seen, I know these will serve to good pur- 
 pose for making up old stuff in embroidery. My good daughter, as I 
 was writing thus far I received two several packets with his letters 
 from my son, the one of the 4th, the other of the 27th of November, 
 which maketh me much comforted to hear of both your good healths. 
 Your children, I thank God, are all as well as is possible, free from 
 cough or cold, though this time be very extreme sharp frosts. They 
 that can talk wish heartily with me both your good returns, and are 
 at my elbows desiring their service may be sent with desire their Lady 
 Mother will send them word when she and Lord Father will come 
 home. Sweet Will I assure you is the liveliest merry child that ever 
 you had of his time, and looketh very well coloured and will be forward 
 in his going. God Almighty bless them all and send you and them a 
 happy meeting. My son dotli mention silks to be good in Sienna, if 
 twisted silks be good cheap I think for fringe and embroidery one may 
 do well to buy some store, for here we pay 3 shillings or eight groats 
 the ounce if the silk be anything good . . . my niece is with her 
 cousin Knowles, and shall be I hear a bridemaid to my Lady Frances, 
 and as it is said marry the Earl of Somerset's brother, who is a near 
 neighbour to her father, but yet 1 think he is not come out of Scotland. 
 What will be the end I know not, but now and ever rest your Ladyships 
 affectionate loving mother.
 
 80 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 (1613), Sienna. Thomas Coke (no address). 
 
 Refers to his last letter, written at Padua. 
 
 Siaino qui in un paese vago e piacevole ed abondante di tutte sorti di 
 rarita, delle quale abbiamo gia viduto gran parte, e pero cercando dove 
 cresca la vera nobilta insieme con tanti gentilissima virtu, se non sia 
 nell'anima di V. S. lllustrissima non sappiamo dove l'abbiano di trovare, 
 L'eccel! ma Signora contessa sua sorella sta bene e qui in Siena e ogni 
 di accarezzata e visitata di queste signori per dozzene a volta. 
 
 1613-4, January 13. Broad Street. Gilbert Earl of Shrewsbury to 
 Thomas Coke. 
 
 The last letter from any of you was from Lord Arundel dated at 
 Siena the 24 November. We hear that he and my daughter have sent 
 all their company to Pisa and my daughter had put herself into a 
 monastery for six or eight weeks to the end that they may better learn 
 that language. I have been visited with the gout. My wife hath been 
 permitted to be here with me, but this day she returneth to her un- 
 comfortable lodging. We trust you will return by midsummer. 
 
 1613-4, January 27. Arundel House, Highgate. Earl of Shrewsbury 
 10 Earl of Arundel and my daughter his wife. 
 
 After 1 had kept my house at Broad Street for 11 or 12 weeks I was 
 bold to visit your house at Highgate. I have found great comfort by the 
 sharpness and clearness of the air, it is like I shall not be long from it. 
 The 3rd of February the Lord of Roxburgh shall be married to my Lady 
 Jane Drummond at Somerset House, the King will be there at supper. 
 Her Majesty inviteth the Lord Mayor and all the Aldermen to her new 
 christened house, which his Majesty will give a new name to the night 
 that he suppeth there. With the heartiest prayers that I can send up 
 to heaven for both your perfect healths with a most safe return. 
 
 1613-4, + Sutton, 27 of January. "To the Right honourable my 
 assured loving Sonne the Earle of Arundell, Sieuna." 
 
 " My good Sonne the 23rd of this present I received together both 
 yours of the 15 and 21 of Decern. I am as joyf'ull to hear of your good 
 healths as you are carfull to here from us, I assur you I am serten 
 ther hath not scaped any week but one this Christenmass but I have 
 written myselfe since I was able to write and in my sickness I caused 
 Robert to write weekly till Mr. Dix cam upe the last terme, and then he 
 writ still and I to soe as I know not what to think but hope that befor 
 this time or the resait of Y. Lo. last letters our come by heapes, I am 
 sorry to pursave any thought of y r looking further from home every- 
 thing is not taken many times as it is mentt and great parsons forgett 
 among ther many great affairs what they speak some months befor. 
 Ther hath of late bene as I here some scanning what caused y r jorney 
 into Italy, for health they say it is not for your doe take no phisick at 
 all as they saye. I assur you my child your other frinds as well as 
 myselfe like not such scannings as goe on you for Godsake make haste 
 home for it is truss me more nedfull then 1 can writt, and for godsake 
 goe no further from home but gsve your frinds contentment by y r 
 company and when you are nere any speach of evill tongs are the 
 soner suppressed. I doute not my good Sonne but you carry a clear 
 conscience which is the best brasen wale to y r owne quiett, and your 
 care is such of your actions as it doth J assur myselfe will deserve it 
 but yett no body is free from malitious adversaris nor you so unwise to 
 hope for such a priveledg, I beseech our Lord save you and yours from 
 ther mallice. Your swett children be all three in health, and the two 
 elder very merry but Will m continuith as I wrott in my last not any 
 show of sickness but neyther so merry nor so forward of his foot as
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 81 
 
 bef'or. I trust in Jesu it will well amend again. For that y r Lo. write Coke mss. 
 of cousarning such money as should arise in those things in Shropshire 
 for rent ther wilbe none a good while, for Mr. Dyx said that my L. of 
 Shrewsbury had halfe a years rent beforehand, but of stock if any 
 com to my hand it shalbe sent as you have directed me. 1 wonder you 
 have no bills from here for in troth Mr. Dyx maketh what meanes he 
 can to send and I am sur 300/. was delivered at one time to send this 
 last terme, when I come to towne I will send the 100/. I wrote of to 
 bye silkes, but I will speak with the party and if she can send it safe 
 I may haply send it by his meanes. I parsave by y r letters to the 
 Earle of Somerset that our letters goe not well, for Robert writ of it 
 befor the elecsion and ye Duk was created at that time Earle of 
 Richmond. I send y r letter with my L. Privy Seales and how his 
 Lo. will accord that and y r present at the maryage I leave to his 
 judgment His Lo. hath of late retired him selfe to Grenwich to take 
 he saith som smale phisick for his better health, he hath had sundry 
 disposition to fevers and great wolds, he is very ernest for y 1 * retorne. 
 Ther was befor Christemass a report my L. Chamberland should be 
 L. Treasurer, I can write nothing of certanty but here is a report in 
 the country by some cam from London that on fryday last being the 
 22 day the K. Ma 1 }' being at Audley end should make the E. of Sutfock 
 L. Thrs. the Earle of Somersed m r of the horse, and y r Earle of Woster 
 L. Chamberlain. I now send Robart to London, and have apointed 
 him to write the truth of the report to y r L. My L. of Shrewsbury is 
 gone to lye at Highgate and my Lady to hir evill lodgen. With my 
 best love to you both I ever rest your Lo. affectionate loving Mother. 
 
 A. A." 
 
 " To the Right honourable my very loving Sonne the Earl of Arundel 
 Sienna, Arundel house.'' 3 February. 
 
 " My assured good Sonne I hearing of my Lord Privy Seales evill 
 disposition came this day heather of purpose to visite his good Lo. and 
 alighted at his house as I came to towne I assure you he is not well farr 
 otherwise then I did think for his Lo. hath often this winter bene 
 troubled with a coold and some times with a fitt of an ague, but now I 
 find him not only troubled with a great coold which though lie avoid eth 
 some thing yett continueth a thing rewme without ripening and his 
 strenth both as it seemeth and his Lo. findeth doth much decay, he hath 
 kept his chamber of late and his bedde half the day as I here he inten- 
 deth as I perseave to go to the Stare Chamber to morow the matter of 
 Proctor being ther to be handled wher in his Lo. is so much injured 
 in. I doe much doubt his Lo. wilbe the woorse for his going abrode. 
 I have brought his Lo. to lett me here to morrow att night how he) 
 his going thether and to <yeve me leave if without his trouble 
 Saturday or I goe horn and then my business is done he asked me yf [[torn] 
 was gone I told his Lo. this was the night of his going he desired me 
 unto you that onely wante of health stayed his hand from writing 
 send him a good recovery that you may be a witness of it t for sure it is 
 mere a coold ; many flying reportts ther got he that his Lo. should 
 take greffe upon some unkindness but I leave all to God and beleve no 
 more reports than I know to be true. Your three swete sonns be all 
 well for health but Will not so forward and lively as he was before 
 his jorney I write to your Lo. of but T hope he is somthing mor 
 meryer than at my last writing, forgodsak make hast home for I can not 
 write how much it is desired of some that I have mensioned ther ernest 
 .lesir in my i'ormare letters and therfor you will understand my meaning 
 and out of your Lo. wisdouie think ther is some cause more then the fond 
 U 249G3. f
 
 82 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokk MSS. affection of a Mother to see your safe retorne only. For the monny from 
 ~ "~ Shropshire I find by Mr. Dyx it is as I thought that what was reserved 
 
 for Cooles at Michemas dotli now pay for getting of more but none 
 now solde till sommer that the ways wil fitt for caryage, ther is monny 
 for the Cooch Mairs sold 79//. I will see it delivered wher you wished 
 the other to be payed or any other that may be had from Shropshire. 
 I thought now to have sent you the 100 to bye such things I write to 
 y r Lc. for but that both loss of letters as I assure my selfe and stay of 
 them by the way maketh me [to doute] what to doe but if you take 
 it up it shalbe payed at one days warning [torn] here for it ; 
 our last letters maketh me dout you wilbe looking abrod before it will 
 [torn] day is the great maryage of Mrs. Druman and the L. of Ox- 
 borow, and the king lieth here [torn] this night and the name of the 
 place shall it is said be now changed. I here much ado and great 
 sports the Queen doth welcom the King and grace the manage with 
 all ; but my nece Margaretts report of maryage cometh yett to nothing. 
 She is now left with my Lady of Walden the Lady Knowes being out 
 of towne. With all my harts love to you and my good daughter Irest 
 vour Lo. affectionate loving Mother. 
 
 A. A." 
 
 1613-4, February 4, Arundel House. Anne, Dowager Countess of 
 Arundel, to Countess of Arundel, Siena. 
 
 ... " but my good daughter I assure myself that mine [letters] 
 either have foul play at home or abroad for I write weekly aud by my 
 son's last I find in almost a whole month you received none, these doubts 
 make me have many thoughts. I caused my son's letter to the Earl of 
 Somerset to be delivered. I find you heard neither of his creation nor 
 marriage. Remember my son as oft as you may to make haste home, for 
 in truth it is much desired of his best friends. . . . The 200/. I would 
 send to buy those things for me is here ready to pay or send. . . . Your 
 children are all in good health, little Will as I write is not so forward with 
 his foot as he was nor so merry but he amendeth something, but I assure 
 myself he got some strain as I writ. They are very good children I 
 thank Grod, and little James' hands were well of his chilblains till this 
 sharp weather came and Hall grows very well, much less troubled with 
 his speech than he was. ... So soon as this frost is gone the elder 
 shall come to do their duties this Shrovetide but my sweet Will shall 
 not come in a coach till he be well aud upon my own lap till I see you, 
 which I beseech our L. may be shortly." 
 
 1614. February 19. " Double de la repouse de la Heine 1'egente 
 Mere du Eoi a lettre ecrite a sa Ma w par Monseigneur Le Prince de 
 Conde." 
 
 1613-4 March 1, North Clifton. Margaret Bussy to J. Coke. 
 
 Has 3 sons aud 3 daughters. Asks aid for her husband in his business 
 if in London next term 
 
 1613-4, March 10. W. Yyner to Mr. John Coke at Hall Court. 
 
 Mr. Hammond told me that the last week he had letters from your 
 brother Thomas dated in January. He remains in Siena until Easter 
 and then removes nearer Venice. I cannot think of a cheaper and 
 handsomer stuff than your Irish stich for carpets. Send me a note how 
 long you would have every of the three carpets to be, in which measure 
 you shall do well to allow at each end of the table three quarters of a 
 yard more than the length of the table, for be the stuff never so good a 
 curtail carpet hath no comeliness. 
 
 In France they have been together by the ears, the quarrel is between 
 the Queen and the Prince of Conde.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION, 83 
 
 [Endorsed with a draft letter from John Coke offering service at Coke MS8. 
 the Audit (probably to Sir Fulke Greville) and with a draft letter 
 from John Coke to the Dean of Winchester asking preferment for 
 the bearer, Mr. Dixon, whom the Dean had himself recommended t( 
 Mr. Coke and his friends.] 
 
 1614, March 14. Naples. Thomas Howard Earl of Arundel to the 
 Countess of Arundel at Rome. 
 
 All that is here to be seen you may in a short time despatch, f 
 would wish you to see Rome well and that you would have been there 
 in the Settimana Santa. In your way hither you shall find vile hos- 
 terias, one mattress, one blanket, no bolster, or anything else. At Gaeta 
 is a rock which they say clove at Christ his death. In the Castle, 
 Bourbon's body to be seen, asking leave as strangers of Florence. Mr. 
 Coke should put all his money in pistoles. He may hear from us at 
 Foutana dei Serpi, or at the Orso del Oro. 
 
 1013-4. To the Right honorable my assured good Sonne the Karle 
 of Arundell, Syenna. 
 
 My good Sonne. This week maketh upp one whole month since 1 
 reseved the last lino from yon or my good daughter. I besech our 
 Lord you be both well. 1 write weekly I assur you, and so L think you 
 do whersoever the stay be of coming. I reseved the last packett but 
 one three weeks letters together from my deer Daughter ; the wether 
 here is in extremity of coohl, and hath bene this 3 week or more; 
 extreme coold Avinds and great frost, and now very great snowes these 
 to last dayes, so that we had a milde spring all Christenmass and som 
 weeks after and nowe a sharp winter, but no rayne to speak of since 
 hallowtide so as they ba forsed to drive cattell from the Rewell and all 
 that side of the foorest of Arundell to water twise a day a mile or two 
 from them, and hath done so 10 days or more, so great a drought at 
 this time of the year seldom sene. I fearc it will cause many of my 
 planes at Arundell to fade. My LL. Privy Scale and Chancelour hath 
 both bene evell, my L. Privy Scale hath continued sickly most parte of 
 this winter, much troubled with distempers and coold, and the last Aveek 
 in a consaite with all that his infirmity was like unto the late L. Peters 
 by the decay of his flesh and weakness of his Lo. stomach, but on 
 Saturday last his Ma tv visited him, and since that time he is of better 
 comforte. I thank God the L. Cha. is saide to have bene so hevily 
 disposed to slepenes as he was much feared, but the counsaill dot he now 
 come to sitt at his house, which caused assurance of some amendmentt. 
 1 think shortly to goe to London to see my L. Prive Scale which 1 have 
 not done now a long while, his Lo. being not disposed to be visited 1 lost 
 a jorney or two, but I send twice a week to here of his good recovery, 
 which I besech our Lord to grauntt. I never goe but he doth erncstly 
 inquire of your retorne, and willeth me to write to that purpose. I 
 assure my good Sonne I cannot express how much I doe desir itt for 
 your good as well as my owne comfort. Your two elder boys be very 
 well and merry, but my swett Will 1 " continueth his tension agu still 
 this day we expect his 12th fitt, I assur my selfe teeth to be the 
 chefe cause I look for so spedv ending of it, he is so well and merry on 
 his good days, and so strong as I never saw old nor yonge bear it so 
 well. I thank Jesu he hath not any touch of the intirmyty of the head, 
 but onely his coler and flushe apareth, but he is as livly as can be, but in 
 the tim of his litts onely which continueth some eight hours, to counter- 
 poise the joy of my Lady Wrooths young Sonne he is left a warde by his 
 father death the last week Mr. Longe of Rentier I here is dead, aud my 
 cosen S r Thomas Penroddok's mother. Thus wee all drope away, 
 
 v 2
 
 84 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke xMSS. nothing happy but a good ende. Thus with my harty prayers for your 
 spedy retorne with my best remembrances to my good Daughter and 
 y r Lo. I ever rest, 
 
 Your Lo. affectionate loving Mother 
 Sutton, 18 Mar. Anne Arundell. 
 
 1614, March 28. North Clifton. Francis Bussy (brother-in-law), to 
 John Coke. 
 
 My wife would needs have me tell you that it h, so long since she 
 received a letter from you that she is halt' fearful she hath lost a brother. 
 . . . My brother Charles by accident is become tenant to Sir Fulko 
 Grevill of certain pasture ground called Pinton Fen in the marsh in 
 Lincolnshire. Sir George Heneage hath a lease of it for term of his life. 
 He oweth my brother a great deal of money, and his estate is grown 
 somewhat desperate, so as my brother is forced to take this lease with 
 great loss. . . . My brother is desirous upon reasonable terms to renew 
 it if he could for three lives, and then he would put in two of my sous. 
 And if it please God to call him he would leave it to one of them. . . . 
 How to work this we know not, for that we have no acquaintance 
 unless you can do us pleasure in it, If you be at London this next 
 term, ray brother would meet you there. . . . My wife doth earnestly 
 desire to hear how my sister and you do, and how many children you 
 have. And if you come to Trusley, as she heareth you intend, if you 
 come not into Nottinghamshire she saith it will half kill her. 
 
 1614, May 10. Rome. Tobie Matthew to Thomas Coke, at Naples. 
 
 If I can recover a little health, I think to go into a villa for the 
 taking of some fresh air. If in the mean time you return this letter 
 will meet with you, and also a roll of pictures I have left for Don 
 Roberto. 
 
 1614, June 4. Siera. Frate Angelo Ing se Cap 110 Ind. All 111 et 
 Ecc mo mio S re II S r Conte d'Arandelia, Rome. 
 
 Jesuf Maria Most Right Honourable Lord, I making something bold 
 to write these few lines only to give your Honour to understand Sig 1 ' 
 Ottavio Gerini hath news out of England that the Earl of North- 
 ampton is departed this life, and that he hath made your Honour his 
 heir. 
 
 1614, July 12. London. Sir Foulke Grevill to John Coke. 
 
 I have lain in London all this week, expecting your father coming up, 
 yet his Attorney tells ncy servants he was resolved not to be seen this 
 term. He hath used this fashion long, he would urge me to extremities. 
 I pray advisehim to prepare a security, for I will not lose my own. 
 
 1615, October 14. Mr. Robert Johnson's report of the state of the 
 Alum works : commencing with a Patent of 1606 granted to Lord 
 Sheffield, Sir Thomas Chaloner, Sir D. Foulis, and J. Bourchier, for the 
 sole making for 31 years: under which various charges in the terms of 
 working were conceded by the Crown, and in April 1613 the works 
 were taken in hand for the King. Sir William Clavil and Sir Richard 
 Houghton became engaged to take large quantities oi' the produce ; but 
 a large debt was due from the Crown. The report concludes thus : 
 " So it appeareth that the works are worthy to be privileged bya Kino- : 
 that set many thousand poor men on work ; spend nothing but base 
 materials, coals, urine, and earth out of rocks and barren grounds; 
 employ many ships ; impoverish the Pope's coffers, and will advance 
 his Majesty's revenue many thousands a year."
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 85 
 
 1614, October. Sir John Bingher's Report of the Issues of the Crown CokeMSS. 
 for this year. (Imperfect ?) 
 
 Charges of Judicature. 
 
 Starchamber 
 
 Lords Presidents 
 
 Justices of Assize 
 
 Sheriffs - 
 
 Justices of Peace from 
 
 Sheriffs 
 Lieutenant of the Tower 
 Keeper of the Gatehouse 
 
 Total 
 
 11,580 
 
 Martial Affairs, 
 
 
 ^ I Treasurer 40,000 "1 
 mv yj Victualler 10,000/ 
 Lieutenant of the Ord- 
 
 50,000 
 
 nance - 
 Master of the Armoury - 
 Supply of Gunpowder - 
 Castles and Forts 
 
 6,0O() 
 
 400 
 
 3,200 
 
 5,360 
 
 Berwick and Cominis 
 
 
 sioDers for the North - 
 
 5,073 
 
 Total 
 
 70,033 
 
 Foreign and State Affairs. 
 
 300 
 
 Secret Affairs 
 
 - 1,400 
 
 3,800 
 
 Postmaster 
 
 - 3,000 
 
 2,000 
 
 Ambassadois 
 
 - 12,000 
 
 520 
 
 Ireland - 
 
 - 40,000 
 
 
 Low Countries - 
 
 - 25,016 
 
 560 
 4,000 
 
 
 
 Total 
 
 - 81,416 
 
 400 
 
 
 
 Defalcations. 
 
 For goods exported free - 
 Purveyors of French wines 
 fees - 
 
 Total 
 
 7,000 
 
 300 
 
 7,300 
 
 In Margin. 
 
 231,782 
 
 110,936 
 
 11,580 
 
 70,033 
 
 81,4J6 
 
 7,300 
 
 Total of Issues - 513,047 
 
 More issued than receive;! 67,151. 
 
 1614, October . Shrewsbury. Richard Cam to John Coke. 
 
 Remitting 20/. to Ludlow from Michael Mallet to Mr. Coke at Hale 
 Court. 
 
 1614, October 19. London. John Coke "To my wife from London. 
 
 Dear wife, I writ, unto you by Dobbs the last Saturday, and hope 
 you shall receive that letter before this come to your hands, I hud 
 placed John Mayo in this house, but I know not out of what con- 
 sideration he changed his mind and desired to return home, pretending 
 that he liked not to live in the city but rather in the country according 
 to his breeding. So he put me to a new labour both for his return and 
 for his country employment which Sir Fulke hath offered him, if 
 occasion serve. It' I could a- easily disengage myself I should now 
 come home with him, but I am otherwise bound for a while, as he can 
 tell you. I thank Cod I have my health, and hope to break away about 
 the end of the term. In the meantime ! have bought your gown cloth, 
 and for the children, which I purpose, God willing, to send by Dobbs 
 this next Saturday so as you may receive it at Ross on Thursday after. 
 I pray you therefore forget not to send thither to demand it. I am not 
 quiet till I hear from you in regard of that indisposition wherein I left 
 you. Write I pray you as often as you may specially of your health, 
 ami how your sowing proceedeth this weather which hath been here very 
 extreme wet. ever since my coming up. Commend me to our friends at 
 Preston and deliver this inclosed. Pray for my speedy and satisfactory
 
 86 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. deliverance from hence as I do for your health and comfort. The Ix>rd 
 increase in us His grace and give us in this world peace in moderate 
 desires. 
 
 1614, November 17. Trusley. William Coke to John Coke at 
 Sir Fulke Greville's house in Austin Friars, beyond the Royal Ex- 
 change. 
 
 It was my ill fortune in my living in London to wander too far 
 beyond my bounds, yea, so far that I have (to my great displeasure) in- 
 curred my father's anger in such a height that without the help and 
 means of some such friends as yourself, I fear me it will be to my utter 
 overthrow and undoing. I pray you to stand my friend so much as to 
 use all the means you can to make an atonement between us and 
 l'econcile my father to me again, but, O, unfortunate I, that ever I be- 
 haved myself so unseemly. I daily wish for your presence, by whose 
 intercession I doubt not but we should be as heretofore. 
 
 1614. November. A paper indorsed by J. Coke: "The state of 
 tinne in Cornwall." 
 
 The whole quantity of tins vented communibus annis is ; ~ weight 
 
 which at 4/. 8s. the cwt. cometh to 44,000/. Hereof the tinner at the 
 rate of 3/. the cwt. receiveth the sum of 30,000/. ; and the King at 2Ss. 
 the cwt, 14,000/. 
 
 1614, December 3. Behind St. Clement's Church. Laurence Whit- 
 aker to Mr. Coke at Austin Friars. 
 
 Asking support of a petition to Mr. Chancellor [of Exchequer], for 
 one Williams, an old poor and impotent clerk of the Alienation Office. 
 Sir George Kivers of that office can give information. 
 
 (1614?). " All' eccellentissimo Sig. II Conte d'Arundell." Genoa. 
 
 My Lord, the reporte of your Lo. departure frorne Genoa the passed 
 weeke made my diligence lesse in enquiring of you as I passed Genoa, 
 and had I not received the same frome Mr. Trasey, whoo toulde me 
 Mr. Causefielde write him worde that you were to departe 8 te days 
 since, I thinke I should not have had so assured a beleefe, but having 
 enquired of one or two and they telling me there was a noble man of 
 England but hee was departed made me confidente of your departure 
 and put haste to my desire to overtake you at Lions, but being all moste 
 x miles of my way frome Genoa to turin, I by chance mette with a 
 dutcheman whoo tormes him selfe the English Consul, whoo assured me 
 your Lo. was not departed, nor to depart this x dayes from Genoa, 
 whereuppon I lighted frome horse (and in a blinde alehouse as by my 
 rude linos and well suited paper your Lo. may judge without other 
 circumstances) and with 3 or 4 lines I sente youre Lo. a packet w h 
 Mr. Trasey gave me to deliver or sende w h Avhat convenient speede I 
 could, saying they came from England. I hope before this you have 
 them, yf not yf your Lo. sende to that Consul I make no doubte of their 
 safe delivery 
 
 If I had bene my selfe alone after I beared your Lo. was not gone 
 from Genoa I would have returned to have <vayted on your Lo. into 
 England, but my cosen Wythypole being with me and not for some 
 great reasons daring to be knowne to bee in Genoa, I durste not but 
 reste unhappy in having any hinderunce to shewe how muche I am 
 vour Lo. devoted servante. 
 
 To write your Lo. particulars of my Lo. of Northehampton's laste 
 testamente may argue some zeale but small discretion, for I knowe youre 
 Lo. have before this received particulars. I received in letters from 
 Englande that hee had given youre Lo. 3 thousande pounde a yeere
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 87 
 
 my Lo. of Suff. his house in the Strande furnished Mr. Harry Coke mss 
 Howarde one thousande pounde a yeere, and made 4 of his servantes 
 exectors, who after his death going into his studdey with my Lo. of 
 Suff. they founde there to the greate greife of some presente 
 thousande pounde in readey money. 
 
 Sir Charles Cornewallise is still in the tower for being thoughte to 
 have made the laste speeche hoskins spake in the parlamente house 
 againste the Scottes. It is sayed hee confessethe to have made parte, 
 but not all, it is thoughte some great ones had a parte with him, yet 
 will hee confesse none, but takes all to him selfe w h bathe as it is 
 written to mee gotten him muche love for his magnanimity ; they allso 
 write me worde hee shall bee broughte into the Starre Chamber and 
 censured, but great ones being sharers with him it is by beste judge- 
 ments thoughte all will turne to smoke. Thus, my Lo. may my zeale to 
 your Lo. prove fastidious, yet I beseeehe your Lo. pardon it since it 
 proceedes from one whoo hath ever vowed to reste youre Lo. devoted 
 servante. Charles Glemham. 
 
 Octagio this 17 of August. 
 
 1614-5, January 9. London. Thomas Penruddock to the Earl of 
 Arundel. 
 
 On the second of the new year was my lady Elizabeth's grace safely 
 delivered of a son. Of this Christmas every day hath had its part in the 
 celebration of the marriage of your noble cousin the Lady Frances to 
 the Earl of Somerset. Two masks in the Court, one of great lords, the 
 other of gentlemen, a third came from the Inns of Court men ; a 
 tilting and running at the ring ; feasted by the City of London ; a great 
 number of rich presents from almost all persons of quality, esteemed to 
 be no less woilh than 30,000/. in plate and jewels. The exercise you 
 are in is much applauded of all men, and the honour you receive of all 
 the states your Lordship comes into. When your Lordship shall be 
 pleased to be here again, the sight of it shall be more welcome than all 
 the rarities of Italy. The Queen intendeth to grace with great 
 solemnity the marriage of the Lord of Roxburgh and Mrs. Jane Drum- 
 mond at her Somerset House, where the King will be. 
 
 1614-5, January 11. The Court. W. Vyner to John Coke ut 
 Hall Court in the parish of Much Marcle. 
 
 I was yesterday with Thomas Coke and stayed with him about 
 an hour, and (thanks b'. to God) foi anything I could perceive by him 
 there is still good hope of his recovery, he eats, drinks, sleeps, and 
 digests his meat well, only his legs still continue their swelling towards 
 night. That which was blistered in the bath is now broken out into two 
 hoies, the core of the one of them is come out and begins to heal very 
 well, of the other he makes no fear at all, for anything I can perceive 
 by him. The compass of these holes are us big as a shilling. The 
 surgeon saith he never saw any such like accident heal in better sort 
 than this doth. My Lord and the ladies of that family are exceeding 
 careful for him. ... I desire to deal for both parts of this tithe as well 
 that in possession as the other in lease, and if it shall please Mr. Powell 
 to part with them for 7(H)/. to give good assurance for 500/. -M our 
 Lady Day next, and the other 200/. at Michaelmas following . . . he 
 shall be as sure of his money as if it were in his purse. . . . For the 
 viewing of the place I have none to send that I dare better trust than 
 yourself and Mr. Powell, and therefore in this I shall as freely believe 
 that you affirm as if 1 had seen it with my own eyes. ... 1 will re- 
 member your Ste. Tho. onion seed to Jo. Jackson.
 
 88 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1614-5, January 28. Broad Street, Thomas Coke to John Coke at 
 Halo Court in the parish of Much Marcle. 
 
 The opportunity of this messenger serveth me well in the failing of 
 Mr. Vyner and Mr. Hopton this week which is marvel and belike the 
 reason is their plying of the Court where all things go more solito. For 
 myself and my estate of body, I can only continue to say that I thank 
 God my strength still increaseth and my disease lesseneth not. Brother 
 George is now here, my commendations to Joseph and lusty Jack. 
 
 1614-5, February 3. Charing Cross. Philip Lord Stanhope to the 
 Eight Worshipful Sir Richard Knightley, Sir Eusebius Andrews, Sir 
 John Needham, knights, and all the rest of His Majesty's Justices of 
 the Peace near there adjoining. 
 
 Whereas I have had many and large testimonies of the honest 
 behaviour and approved good service of William Clarke His Majesty's 
 post of Daventry in the execution of his said place, rather than he would 
 give offence to any he hath kept many horses at all times in readiness 
 (Tor service) upon his own cost and charges these many years to his 
 great hindrance, so that he hath been a long time a petitioner unto me 
 to be unburthened thereof and attend only the peculiar charge of the 
 King's packet which he hath daily fee for, he being post of the stage in 
 duty he must either keep horses of his own or take them where they 
 are to be had or found. I have thought good to write unto you that 
 you would be pleased to be aiding and assisting at all times unto the 
 said William Clarke in taking up of horses when and as often as need 
 shall require. 
 
 1614-5, March 10. Broad Street. Thomas Coke to John Coke. 
 
 I have received your declamation against physic. 1 shall ere long be 
 able to think of a Herefordshire journey. The Earl of Somerset hath 
 been directed to a notable way for his profit in those lands which were 
 once the Earl of Westmorland's by appropriating the title of Mr. Nevile, 
 whom I think they call Lord Latimer. The King returned from Cam- 
 bridge, himself moderating sometimes and sometimes disputing with 
 great applause. He gave Buller his hand, meaning like a prince to 
 favour him with letting him kiss it, and he like a physician took him by 
 the wrist and felt his pulse 
 
 1614-5, March 22. W. Vyner forwards a letter of Edward Whit- 
 greave from Trinity College. 
 
 You shall receive by Mr. Hobson your hampers this week. I have 
 sent you a few of the best peremon grafts and harvies this country can 
 yield. My fellows thank you for your good remembrance of them. 
 
 1614-5, March . Tottenham. Sir Foulke Grevyll to John Coke 
 at Preston. 
 
 My own John, Will Snead brought yours to me written from Beau- 
 champs Court the 4th of March. It is true that these conspiracies of 
 fortune have fallen upon us thick of late years. My letter was only not 
 to keep any workmen that were idle and unskilful. For the breaking 
 up of the house at Beauchamps Court I have given peremptory order 
 and letting out of the house if they find a tenant. Come up to London 
 with me for a while. I "will fetch you there. I have some reasons 
 that 1 desire your being with me for a while. You shall lose no real 
 love or kindness you show towards me or my estate. The mending 
 of fences at Terfield will be very chargeable, besides I have but the 
 moiety nor receive these three years till the child come of age. 
 
 1615, March 31. Broad Street. Thomas Coke (brother) to 
 John Coke at Hall Court in the parish of Much Marcle in Here- 
 fordshire.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 89 
 
 I have been these 20 days in a course of pills and dry baths which Coke MSS. 
 hath much lessened my swelling, I thank God, I am yet to continue 
 some 10 or 14 days. Sir Arthur Ingram hath kept his table of Cofferer till 
 yesterday and now is to have it no more, but to continue the name till 
 Michaelmas, a shadow which in that time may be bodied with some 
 place able to repay the domination of the officers of the Court in pro- 
 curing the reversing of his grant. 
 
 1615, August 5. Sutton. Anne Dowager Countess of Arundel to 
 Master Coke (Thomas Coke). 
 
 Good Mr. Coke, I am well pleased to hear you have received the 
 bills of payment for the 200/. delivered to Burlamachi ... I shall be 
 afflicted if any indiscretion should be committed in the sending of that 
 which I have told my son I will bestow. ... I hope and pray for the 
 poor children's health and happy journey. I commit them to the divine 
 providence of Almighty God, and trust exceeding much in your wisdom ; 
 love, and care, your experience good Mr. Coke, best knowing those 
 countries and their tender natures, and I assure myself both you and 
 good Petty will so accommodate their study to the disposition of those 
 parts as may stand with their best health, and I hope you shall find 
 Tunstall ready to give his best attendance when they be from their 
 study, for I wish them not at any time to be in the company of the ser- 
 vants without some one of you there, which I do think will weli 
 suppress any evil speech or other unseemly passion . . . And thus at 
 this time my bad head and eyes forces me to end . , . 
 
 I pray you let my good daughter know that 1 will send for Robert 
 Baldwin, who has this day appointed to be at Badworth to attend the 
 Bishop of Norwich for view of the woods in that Park. 
 
 1615, September 3. London. Sir Foulke Grevyll to John Coke. 
 
 Amicissime Johannes, oeconomus providus, colonuslaboriosus, scdiilus 
 liberorum magister, parens aniraorum factus quorum corpora genuisti, 
 doces in publica luce versari cum laude et ruris angustias pati moderate. 
 Omnis Aristippum decuit color et status et res. Tu istas ingenii divitias 
 doini foris vigilando agendo quaesitus privati tecti latebris non potes 
 concludere : apparatus hie erat reipublicae non ruris-parietes tui haec 
 aulaea non merebantur. Me quern olim praesentiae tu.ie amatorem num.: 
 absent iae fautorem usque quaque habes nihil aliud vello seias nisi priori- 
 vitae nexu aliquando conjungi. Vale charissime Johannes et si me aims 
 votum hoc meum quantum potes tua voluntate promove Quern nosti ex 
 asse tuum. Fulco Grivellus. 
 
 1615, September 4. London. Sir Fulke Grevyll to John Coke. 
 
 Howsoever some misprisions of unkindness stand hitherto undecided 
 between us in respect that where no competent judge is chosen there can no 
 definite sentence be given yet the opportunity of this justly discharged 
 servant going near you and the occasion itself easily encourages me 
 without ceremony to break through all pleas of right or inequality and 
 in the language of old acquaintance both to salute and impart J'reelv 
 with you. Know therefore that this Latin epistle inclosed is written by 
 a man called over by me to read this intended lecture of story j History | 
 notwithstanding the invitements carried in such mariner by eontrael 
 before he came as 100 marks in reward dischargeth all sides from impu- 
 tation. The general scope of the letter is mine and you for honour's 
 sake made object of it ; and the style, east &c. his and beyond me 
 to censure. By nation he is a Northern Breton, by 10 or 12 years 
 education a German 35 years old, industrious of a good presence and so 
 much less able to satisfy the envy which his foreign birth may perhaps 
 -.tir up against him for the forepart of his head rich inside to the back-
 
 90 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 side I am yet a stranger in all things but books. Now friend John 
 though I know it is hard to judge of a picture by a line, yet for my 
 sake with yourself both to answer his Latin letter and 
 
 secretly traffic your opinion in English with me as I do with you. I 
 send you herewith the inscriptions for Philip's long promised 
 
 tombe : the Latin verses be his, yet contracted from many to these four 
 by my direction. The rest are my own. Touching the form and 
 matter of the sepulchre, it is shortly this. Two dainty large stones of 
 touch delicately sorbished borne up one above another by four pillars of 
 brass three foot and a half high and double gilt ; the uppermost worthily 
 his, the other mine. Now because I would not mar the delicacy of the 
 stones or embase their lustre with adding anything to cover it, I have 
 devised a pillar of the same touch raised above and yet disjoined from the 
 tomb and placed at the upper end of Sir Philip's which shall carry 
 scutcheons for his arms and inscriptions to be graven upon it in gilded 
 letters ; and in like manner at the lower end saving only half the tomb 
 high a more humble one to carry mine. The place is Paul's Church 
 where he lies open and because there is or can be no severed aisle there 
 my purpose is to encompass the sepulchre round and inclose with a high 
 grate of iron. Now gentle Mr. Coke be pleased to judge add change or 
 diminish for all this may yet be done without any charge but of thought 
 for which loving freedom I shall be your debtor. I fear Sir Philip's 
 inscriptions be a little too heathenish, and more witty than solid; but I 
 suspend till I hear Avhat you think, and in extreme haste bid you fare- 
 well. 
 
 Tf ever we meet again you shall know what was in my power 
 
 to have done for you and have accepted for my own advancement, 
 if you either had come up upon my earnest letter by your father 
 [in law] or the last modest oue made by my letter to and for yourself. 
 Notwithstanding I think God disposeth all for the best. Farewell 
 again good John and let us both strive to be equal judges between our- 
 selves. Friend John, these verses for the table are hastily done and as 
 you may see furnished while he was . I fear length and some 
 
 other things in them, but if you allow the way I can easily contract and 
 alter the rest by leisure. 
 
 1615, September 1(5. John Coke to Sir Foulke Grevill, "sent by my 
 father." (Copy.) I am glad when it pleaseth you to accept my 
 duty and thankfulness in any service. For the lecture this man's 
 country hath advantage, in this model you sent me there appearetb 
 quickness and ripeness both of wit and judgment, significant, words, 
 and variety of matter well digested in a perspicuous and contracted 
 style, everywhere to be praised, especially in story. The chief use of 
 this profession is now the defence of our church and therein of our 
 state. Our adversaries are already w T orn out of Scriptures and fathers 
 and now hold as their sheet anchor only by antiquity and prescription 
 wherein if we pursue them hard as some of late have happily begun, 
 the very view of times past will so discover their ambitious controversies 
 impostures, tyrannies, teaching, and all the depths of hell in that. Roman 
 gulf, that as by Scriptures they lost us, so by stories they shall lose 
 their own and shew their religion as now it standeth to be incompatible 
 with all free minds and estates, and so plainly expound the prophecies 
 and revelations of Antichrist, that the hearts of all men, specially of 
 princes, shall be prepared for the ruin of that beast. Wherefore in my 
 poor opinion it is now as necessary to have diligent historians as 
 learned divines, and that your historian be also a divine able to join 
 church and commonwealth together, which to separate is to betray.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 91 
 
 So shall your erection be a most fruitful and famous work. Concerning Cork MSS. 
 the tomb a moderate charge may be fittest in this kind. Your two 
 tables of " touch " borne upon four pillars contain both kinds of ancient 
 and durable monuments. In the Latin inscription much may be con- 
 sidered ; an epitaph should couch much matter in few words ; this 
 enlargeth a little in many. The apostrophe to Fame and prosopopoeia of 
 Death are light and swelling to be short, there may be fine :;tage work 
 but no good church work made of such poetical strains. The English 
 translation, your own, hath better stuff and more sadly uttered. [Some 
 of the English lines are quoted and the whole freely and incisively 
 criticized.] And this, sir, is all I have to say in particular touching 
 your epitaph in verse. In general give me leave to commend unto you 
 this consideration, that epitaphs concern only the dead and those that 
 think of death, and therefore should have a mind not such as men 
 traffic with amongst men in the world, but such as a man would carry 
 with him alone out of the world. Besides, they should be as it were 
 jewels well set and polished for every man's wearing, that is for every 
 man to write out, and therefore length, obscurity, and ordinary concepts 
 are fastidious in this kind. For the emblems I think "I am" in 
 Hebrew, u. a Sunt camera mortis. There remaineth your inscription 
 in prose .... [unfavourably criticised]. 
 
 1615, November 13. Cambridge. Doctor John Richardson, Master 
 of Trinity College, Cambridge, to John Coke at Sir Foulke Grevill's 
 house in the Austin Friars. 
 
 I could wish to have John Coke nearer hand to his old master. 
 It had been a use in the College for the Bachelors to bestow excess of 
 wine in the Hall upon All Saints night, as also to spend very much in 
 tobacco openly in that public place; which by sending fcr the Bachelors 
 and forbidding their old practice 1 prevented, and prevailed so far that 
 this year was an example of modesty to my great content. 
 
 1615, November 19. Milan. Pietro Martire Martignone, " All Ill mo 
 Sig r mio oss mo ill S. Tomaso Cocco al S 1 ' Clul rao Hamond alia casa dell 
 ecc mo S. Conti di Sarusberi a Londra. Di quel vaso grande ch'ella vide 
 mandai un bel dissegno con tutta l'altezza et proportione : il fara di 
 mille scudi." 
 
 HU5-6, January 17. Thomas Coke's Chambers. George Coke to 
 John Coke at Hale Court. 
 
 Sister Dorothy is in wonted health, and my wife also whom God 
 hath made a joyful mother of another son, whom when brother Thomas 
 hath given it, 1 will tell you his name. We all commend ourselves to 
 you and to our dear sister your bedfellow. 
 
 1615-6, January 18. London. Samuel Hopton to John Coke al 
 Hale Court. 
 
 Sir George Villiers, Master of the Horse; Sir Thomas Lake, one ol 
 His Majesty's principal Secretaries, when he was sworn refused the 
 oath as principal Secretary of Stale taken by Sir Ralph Winwood for 
 the old form which was Principal Secretary to the King's Majesty. 
 Upon Friday next Sir Thomas Monson to be arraigned. Sir William 
 Monson went to the Tower on Saturday last. Sir Robert Cotton also 
 committed to an alderman's house. 
 
 1615-6, February 1. Broad Street. Thomas Coke (o John Coke, 
 Hale Court. 
 
 We are long since free from the Tower. Sir W. Monson is with his 
 brother Sir Thomas in the Tower. Ralph Bonington's son's wife was 
 widow to Doctor Langley, master of Eton School, and hath 80/. per
 
 92 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 annum of vendible lands. The Earl of Worcester is Lord Privy Seal 
 and Sir George Villiers is Master of the Horse. Sir Robert Cotton is 
 prisoner. 
 
 1615-6, February 13. John Coke to Sir Foulke Grevill. 
 
 1 present unto you the best thankfulness I am able for your late 
 favour and liberality towards me. My daily prayers that your integrity 
 and travail in all your great affairs may find such a gracious respect and 
 be so successful that by your means this incorrupted and noble way may 
 come in fashion :n great places. My ambition hath ever been circled 
 within your prosperity, unto which also my heart and affection shall rtill 
 be liable, though my way and end be cast out of the world. [Endorsed 
 on the letter of January 17, 1615-6, from George Coke.] 
 
 1615-6. March 24. Arundel House. Thomas Coke to John Coke, 
 Hale Court. 
 
 Sir Walter Raleigh hath liberty of coming abroad to furnish his 
 Guiana voyage. Sir Edward Cecil's lady dead, a quitclaim of pre- 
 cedence with my Lady Carleton. Sir Henry Wotton gone for Venice. 
 
 1616, March 28. Whitehall. Sir Fulke Grevyll to John Coke 
 at Hale Court. 
 
 I desire your company awhile for many respects, and particularly to 
 confer with you about some things that concern myself, and wherein you 
 may in part have interest. If you will he pleased upon Wednesday 
 sennight after Easter day to be at Beauchamps Court you shall there 
 find W. Vyner ready to attend you up. All times of the term will 
 easily provide you fellowship for your journey downward, which in part 
 takes away the casualty and desolation of travelling alone. 
 
 1616, July 21. Rufford. W. Cavendysshe to Thomas Coke. 
 
 I thank God my Lady came well to Rufford of Friday last. I found 
 my father weak, but I hope will grow stronger now every day. 1 pray 
 you send me down a note of my old Lord's funeral. Hoping shortly to 
 see you. I pray remember my humble services unto my Lady of 
 Arundel, my little Lord, and his brothers. 
 
 (1616), Michaelmas Eve. Arundel House. Thomas Coke to John 
 Coke at Hall Court in the Parish of Much Marcle. 
 
 Good Mr. Hammond desire Mr. Vyner or Mr. Hopton to send this 
 letter by the first. 
 
 On Monday I came from Bygrave where I had been 3 or 4 days 
 and left all in health. They desire that I should let you know that 
 there is 100/. ready for you, and desire that you will give order 
 for receiving of it to whom you think fit. There is some difference 
 like to grow between Brother George and Cousin Streethay, for which 
 I purpose to write to our cousin that the bond of blood and affiuity 
 betwixt them will require an orderly proceeding, that themselves are 
 sufficient to accord it, if not they have friends who are not unfit, that 
 the law is the worst course that can be, but malice. If you think to 
 write a letter to him to the like purpose it will not be amiss and to send 
 it to Brother George who will be conformable. The news of France 
 rests in as doubtful terms as you left it, the prince still prisoner, and 
 the nobles, Guisards, and all upc n their guard. My Lord Hay is 
 landed as is said and will bring the particulars. The Duke of Savoy 
 is in the field; and so is the King of Spain, who gives for a reason of 
 his not complying with the treaty of Asti, that it was discovered that 
 at the same time the Duke breaks treaty with the Venetians to his 
 and the Austrians prejudice. The Venetians have left the siege of 
 Gradisca but are still strong in Friuli. My Lord Rosse is now upon
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 93 
 
 his journey. The Lords of the Council are still entertained with the Coke MSS. 
 
 business of my Masters of the new Company ; much provision sent into 
 
 Ireland ; et ego fugam hinc meditor that 1 may soon see you and 
 
 perhaps bring George with me ; if you come hither shortly let me know, 
 
 if you please. I present my best and heartiest well wishes to my good 
 
 sister and pray for you all, your most assured loving brother. 
 
 1(316, October 28. Pietromartire Mastignon, All Ill re Sig re mio on mo 
 il Ssig 1 ' Toniaso Coke a Londra. 
 Protestations of desire to serve. 
 
 About 1616. A. A. (Anne, Countess Dowager of Arundel) to the 
 Earl of Arundel. 
 
 Presently after the despatch of my footman we found that Charles 
 was not after his usual sort, refusing his breakfast . . . hath took 
 nothing but tossed and drank sometime in the night. . . his wind 
 very short, and his pulse and heart worketh so extremely fast as I never 
 knew the like . . I assure sweetheart the poor child is exceeding 
 evil. I beseech you send with speed the best doctor may be had. I 
 fear the child very much. God bless him and you all. 
 
 About 1616. To the Ilight honorable my assured good sonne the 
 Earle of Arundell. 
 
 My good Sonne, About some two houres after my servant's depar- 
 ture towards y 1 ' Lo. this morning the poore child continuing very sicke 
 hee cast twise a littell quantity of darke tawny color. Some time after 
 being then aboute noon he cast a good quantity together of black 
 color, which did offer some tim to come in littell quantity so long as 
 he had life. It pleased our blessed Savyour to take him to himselfe 
 something before 4 a clocke this after none, having suffered very sharp 
 pains befor his enda. Mr. Doctor Harvy is of the sum opinion that 
 my Gilford neighbour Mr. Raner was today when he did pursevc 
 what he did avoyde which is y f some continued impostum caused his 
 ende. I trust Mr. Doctore will so early be sturing as Mr. Ardern 
 shalbe able to lett y r Lo. bee satisfyed of the inward true occasion, and 
 1 besech you for godsake to comforte your selfe and my good sweet 
 daughter with the true good of the sweet soule of your littell sonnc, for 
 I am sure wee should all have hartely reioysed if it, had pleased God 
 to have sent him health and strength of body which might hapely sone 
 have for again : but this eternall glory far surpassing the pleasurs 
 of the whole earth if wee shall not yeald our humble thanks to God for 
 this high favour towards this sweet soule "Wee shall spend but littell 
 love to this blessed Inosent, but I doute not but you both will way his 
 securyty and our perpetuall danger so long as wee shall stay hen; 
 behind. God of his goodness send to all happily to follow him to inioy 
 his blessed felowshipp for ever, and with true atfectionat love to y r Lo. 
 and my good daughter. I ever rest, 
 
 Your Lo. faithfull loving Mother, 
 
 Sutton, Sa ,r late Anne Arundel'. 
 
 (1616 to 1618.) Copy addressed to Sir F. Grevill, Chancellor of the 
 Exchequer, of ''A short Breviat of a motion that is referred by Mis 
 Majesty to the consideration of the Lords Commissioners for the office 
 of the Lord Treasurer." Usury (being legale furtum) hath ever been 
 detestable both among Christians and heathen ; that iliis is no novelty 
 divers worthy statutes of this kingdom will confirm. Usurers punished 
 26 Hen. 2, 3 Ed. 6. Several with whom by Mr. Secretaries YYyn- 
 Avood's and Lake's directions I did confer are willing for the trial of 
 this motion, that his Majesty demand of usurers small sums by letters 
 or privy seals.
 
 94 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokeJiss 1616-7, February. Loudon. Thomas Coke to John Coke, Hale 
 
 Court. 
 
 I am not unlikely to see part of this progress into Scotland. This 
 day the Earl of Buckingham is made Privy Councillor. The Arch- 
 bishop of Spalato, under whom were all the bishops of Dalmatia and 
 Croatia, liveth yet with the Archbishop and hath place as an Arch- 
 bishop. He hath a book in press of an excellent design touching the 
 hierarchy of the church. 
 
 1616-7, March 1. Arundel House. Thomas Coke to John Coke, 
 Hale Court. 
 
 Sir R. Naunton lamenteth your resolution of discontinuing from 
 hence. Sir Edward of our name hath a daughter fit to be a wife to 
 the greatest favourite's brother that may be : but the strains in the 
 handling breed storms. I send you a box of grafts of pears. 
 
 1616-7, March 8. London. Edward Reed to John Coke, Hale 
 Court. 
 
 Yesterday Mr. Attorney Bacon was sworn Lord Keeper. My Lord of 
 Salisbury is sworn Captain of the Guard. Sir Allen Astly [Apsley] is 
 sworn Lieutenant of the Tower: the King goeth into Scotland the 15th 
 of this month. Letters from Spain by Mr. Cottington mention the 
 great preparation the King maketh for an expedition by sea. The 
 Arminian party in the Low Countries are grown great and Barnevill is 
 their chief friend, which hath rent the unity of the Low Countries. The 
 match with Spain goeth on. 
 
 1617, March 29. London. Edward Reed to John Coke, Hale Court. 
 
 Sir R. Naunton gone towards the King to Lincoln. Sir J. Digby 
 goeth for Spain in May. Sir Walter Raleigh is this next week to be 
 gone for Guiana. My Lord Chancellor is dead, and his son made Earl 
 of Bridgewater. Sir Edward Noel of Rutlandshire is Lord Noel. 
 Sir J. Bennett goeth to the Archduke to complain of a Jesuit that writ 
 against the King. Sir Th. Edmonds goeth into France. Sir E. Con- 
 way and Sir \V. Bird, of the Chancery, go into Jersey to settle 
 grievances between the Governor and the people. 
 
 1617, April 25. Brussels. Tobie Matthew to the Earl of Arundel. 
 
 May it please your Lordship, I have understood that your Lordship 
 was drawing certain statues of yours out of Italy, and that Mr. Thomas 
 Roper was employed by some servant of your Lordship for the liberty to 
 extract and convey them into England. Some difficulties there grew in 
 the carriage of this business which he would fain out of a passion have 
 imputed to others. I assure your Lordship upon my knowledge and 
 upon the Avord of a Christian that as the way he took was to have done 
 your Lordship prejudice (though he had no meaning that way), so on 
 the other side the persons whose assistance he craved employed them- 
 selves so earnestly as that if ever you see your statues it will be in 
 virtue of their endeavour. For the favour you were pleased to shew in 
 my desire of returning into England, though it were not God's will to 
 let it take effect, I humbly do your Lordship reverence. 
 
 1617, Juue 12. Bygrave. George Coke to Samuel Hopton at Sir 
 Fulke Greville's house in Austin Friars. 
 
 My brother John tells me he sent down 30/. for my brother Thomas, 
 and that if I had furnished him with so much I should write to you to 
 receive it again. I did procure so much to furnish brother Thomas. I 
 pray you therefore deliver it to this gentleman, Mr. George Bowyer. 
 
 [Receipt for thirty pounds for the use of George Coke by George 
 Bowyer.]
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 95 
 
 1617, June 20. Copy of a letter dated "From Leith, near Ediu- Coke mss. 
 burgh," signed with a feigned name, addressing "sweetheart," and 
 giving particulars of a journey and stay in Scotland in the King's 
 train. Remarks on the ill manners and dirtiness of the Scotch. 
 
 [Indorsed by Mr. George Lamb, " This letter is published and at- 
 tributed to Sir Anthony Webb, 1617, see Secret History of the Court 
 of James I., 2 vols., London, 1811."] 
 
 1617, July 7. Hale Court. John Coke to Sir Foulke Grevill, Chan- 
 cellor of His Majesty's Exchequer, and one of His Highness' Most 
 Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Right Honourable. Understanding that His Majesty hath appointed 
 to visit you at Warwick, which besides your Honour's charge will re- 
 quire the attendance of all your followers, 1 thought it my duty humbly 
 to entreat you that if I might be able to perform any service at that 
 time, you will be pleased to accept it, and to signify your pleasure by 
 any of your servants, and so praying God for your health and honour, 
 1 humbly rest at your Honour's commandment. 
 
 1617, July 17. Limavady. Thomas Phillips, probably to the Lord 
 Deputy of Ireland. 
 
 Remissness of the London Companies in fulfilling their undertaking.'' 
 for the plantation of Ulster. From the 2Sth of January 1609 to No- 
 vember 1611, I would have undertaken to put off' all the natives. 
 When they had dispended some 15,000/. they offered to lose all so they 
 might be freed of it, and were earnest with me to bring them offas well 
 as I had brought them on. They cannot justly say they have sent 
 over any but their workmen, which some few will stay in the country 
 others are wrangling bankrupts that cannot stay in England. 
 
 1617, October 4. Drafts of letters to the King and Mr. Murray at 
 Royston, corrected by Sir Foulke Grevill, touching Sir G. Mompessor.'s 
 better offer for the trees in New Forest. 
 
 May it please your Majesty. I received a message by Mr. Secretary 
 Wynwood as if your Majesty were infor ned of some delay in bringing 
 home that Navy timber lately we bought in the New Forest and withal 
 that Sir Giles Mompesson offers to deliver in the same timber at more 
 easy rates than were agreed on by my Lord and me. If Sir Giles Mom- 
 pesson can do your Majesty better service therein your Majesty hath 
 great reasons both to thank Sir Giles, who serves your Majesty with so 
 ingenious a freedom, and withal to give a severe censure against the 
 negligence, ignorance, or corruption of your officer. And so most 
 humbly craving pardon for this dutiful presumption, I lay all my frailties 
 at your princely feet, and remain, Your Majesty's most humble and 
 faithful vassal. 
 
 To Mr. Murray. Sir, I pray you to deliver this letter to His Majesty 
 in all humbleness from me, and to be a mean that I may understand 
 His Majesty's pleasure therein as soon as you can. 
 
 1617-8, January 11. Royston. R. Naunton to John Coke. 
 
 It hath pleased God to incline the King's Majesty to call me their 
 unworthy servant to the place of one of his Secretaries. The first 
 advertisement hereof that my own pen hath given is this to yourself 
 (whose fear of God and love of his dear Church and of our dear country 
 my soul hath so long embraced). The choice of the two places I held 
 had they been in my disposal should have been your own before any 
 man's living ; but I hear they aic both forestalled. You may give me 
 leave out of my true love to invite you a little nearer the sun, specially 
 being endowed as you are with such powers as will abide the sun and
 
 96 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. the light so well, and are indeed peculiarly eomplexionated and interested 
 to inhabit and improve themselves therein, as in their proper tabernacle. 
 
 1617-8, February 15. Arundel House. Thomas Coke to John 
 Coke, Hale Court. 
 
 The Turk is dead and his brother succeedeth. The former whenso- 
 ever he attempted to slay the latter by his sorcerous means fell into infinite 
 torments. The brother escaped to make peace amongst Christians and 
 war in Christendom. 
 
 1618, April 10. William Boswell to William Vyner at the Right 
 Honourable Sir Fulke Greville's house in the Austin Friars. 
 
 Jam sumus ergo pares, Vynere ; silentia tanta 
 Quoe placuere tibi perplacuere mihi. 
 Et mihi quam mittis duplicatam reddo salutem 
 Ardet ut ardet Amor flamma reflexa magis. 
 
 To-morrow I set forward from Paris, and about Midsummer shall be 
 with vou in London. None more devoutly wisheth Sir Robert Naunton 
 increase of all honour and happiness. Your letters saw Venice before I 
 met them from Heidelberg. 
 
 1618, May 18. Jever in Oldenburg. Angelo Sala " al Motto Mag co 
 Sig. Coke, Gentilhuomo di Casa del 111" 10 Sig. Conte Arundella mio da 
 padrone osser mo a Londra." 
 
 Havendomi Iddio salvamente condotto (doppo molti pericoli del 
 mare nequalli son stato) al capo del mio viaggio in tempo tale cho degia 
 quindeci giorni passati io son arivato a Oldenburg nel servitio del Ill mo 
 Sig. Conte mio Padrone : non no voluto manchare di salutare V. S. 
 con queste due righe, per continuare la nostra dolce et fidele amicitia 
 J'atta insieme quando chc esercitando vulcauo per la preparatione di 
 molti secreti chymici, ... 11 presente e un Musicho Servitore del Sig r 
 mio Padrone. 
 
 1618, July 10. Sir Richard Bingley's certificates of the nature of 
 the several offices appertaining to his Majesty's ships. 
 Particulars are given of the functions of 
 
 Treasurer of the Navy. Keeper of the Stores at Dept- 
 
 Comptroller. ford (of late erection). 
 
 Surveyor. Masters Attendant. 
 
 Clerk of the Navy. Their Assistants (of late erec- 
 
 Keeper of the Great Store- tion). 
 
 house at Deptford. Master Shipwrights. 
 
 Clerk of the Checque. Their Assistants. 
 
 Clerk of the Survey at Chat- Boatswains, 
 
 ham. Pursers. 
 
 Keeper of the Great Store- Gunners, 
 house at Chatham. 
 
 Keeper of the Sailhouse, Nail- 
 house, &c. 
 
 1618, July 13. Copy of the Commission of Captain George Alleyn 
 as Muster Master of the Plantations in Ulster: and of the Articles 
 between him and Sir Toby Caulfield and the rest of the justices of the 
 peace in the county of Armagh for the training of the British under- 
 takers, and " outvisings." 
 
 1618, July 15. Whitehall. Sir Fulke Grevyll to John Coke, 
 Esquire, one of His Majesty's Commissioners for Survey of the Navy 
 now attending that service at Chatham.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 97 
 
 I have acquainted His Majesty with the contents of your letter, and c oke M8S. 
 find him sensible of the state the Navy stands in ; so as the comfort of 
 his industry and providence lies upon the return of your faithful labours 
 in this trust committed to you. When we meet you shall find the sun 
 hath not stood still. 
 
 1618, September 13. Goberhill. Edward Reed to Mrs. Mary Coke 
 at Hall Court in Marcle. 
 
 Sir Fulke Conway will be with me on Wednesday next as he goeth 
 for Ireland, send your neighbour's son over unto me, he shall go over 
 with him. I have sent you a side of venison. 
 
 1618, September 19. London. John Coke to u my very loving 
 wife Mistress Marie Coke, at Hall Court." 
 
 Dear wife, my former letter was written on Thursday night. Now 
 Mr. Mease being ready to go to his horse, I must needs once again 
 salute you by him though in haste. Yesternight there supped with us 
 here the old Lady Grevill and Lady Swift and Sir Francis. They all 
 remembered you very kindly, and the lady Swift told me that if she 
 were with you she would help you to chide me for my long absence. I 
 told her you would rather pity me for it, as knowing that I suffered 
 enough by being from home where I love to be, and at London where I 
 never take pleasure. And now though I had no leisure to consider how 
 long the time was of my stay here, yet I had sense to find that it was 
 longer than I hoped or wished, and shall therefore do my best endeavour 
 to make as much haste as I may with good speed. But to leave this 
 chat and come to our business. I have hired a horse of the carrier, 
 and given money to Mr. Mease to pay for him and to bear his charges. 
 I hope he will be with you on Wednesday, and then on Thursday take 
 order I pray you that Hugh or somebody may go to Ross market, and 
 there deliver the horse to his master and receive from him a little trunk 
 or Mr. Mease, and what other stuff he hath as he shall direct. I 
 doubt not but you will take care of all things as you have done till it 
 please God that I may come and bear my part with you. Till then I 
 pray for you, and recommend myself to your prayers and good affec- 
 tions and us all to God's mercy. London, this Saturday, 19th Septem- 
 ber 1618. Your loving husband. I pray you take order that Mr. Mease 
 may not want to keep him warm lest at his first day and change of air 
 he find inconvenience in his health. Let your maids look his lodging 
 be warm. For his diet I doubt not but such part as your board 
 affordeth will content him, and I hope you will find him sober and 
 honest and able to profit our children and be e;ood company for us. 
 
 1618, September 27 (S.N.), di Burselles (Brussels). Francesco 
 Vercelini al molto Ill r Sig r mio oss mo il Sig r Tomaso Coke, Londra. 
 
 Diedi conto a V. S. di Parigi . . . con tutto il mio fare non e stato 
 possibile di haver possuto levare quel gio% r ane X videndo che il mio 
 remaner cola era infrutuoso mi rissolsi pigliar la posta verso questa 
 Citta dove subito arivato andai a presentar le lettere delle lovo ecc. al 
 sig r Agiente, il quale mi disse lo fui quindeci giorni passati a videre 
 la figliolla come aneo per procatiarla di metersi in viaggio per Londra. 
 ma la Madre sua mi diede per riposta che era amalata. . . . suplicai 
 esso Sig. Agiente di mandare uno di sua Serv. con osso medio per 
 parlare con la Madre, egli di subito comando la Carozza e prontameute 
 in persona volse honorarmi. Arivati che fumo da questa buona Dona 
 ... la Madre con tutto che li paresse che a mandare lafigliola in Inghil- 
 terra dovesse andare nel Inferno nulla di mene mi diede parolla e la 
 mano insieme do laseiarla venire compite le feste dell Natalie che sara 
 luncdi prossimo ... la figliola e di buon Padre e Madre lei di buona 
 U 24963. O
 
 98 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokbMSS. na tura malenconica al posibille piu alta di Caterina et scarma di Nitta 
 tenendolla per certo molto propria per il bisognio di S. Ecc zia , e nata in 
 questa citta parla oltra la lingua materna buon francese, ma struppia 
 l'ltaliano. . . . come mi comando S. Ecc zia D r Cuocho ho un giovane 
 quietto e sebene non e uno dei piu rari e almeno ben disposto al servire 
 che questo stimo molto. Io son in praticha di sviare un Giardiniero 
 da ortaglie il qual spero che vera ancor lui mecho ... Mi son imbatutto 
 in una pezza di damasco Cremesino et havendollo trovato bella e a buon 
 mercato l'ho compro, essendo di opera grande come gusta l'ecc zia di 
 Mad 8 . . . Ho compro di piu diverse altre coserelle che tutto insieme 
 portaro mecho 
 
 1618, October 7. Copy of my first letter to the Lord Marquis Buck- 
 ingham. 
 
 I am heartily sorry to find myself unable by any valuable services to 
 express my thankfulness or answer the expectation (it seemeth) your 
 Honour hath conceived of me. My life of late years hath been 
 retired. I have not much applied myself to the times nor affected any 
 higher stage nor hoped for better opportunity to give account of myself 
 than in a private fortune. I humbly desire your Honour first to make 
 trial whether my mediocrity may be improved to any real use and then 
 freely to dispose of me at your own good pleasure or send me home in 
 peace. Only be pleased (my good Lord) to accept my poor service 
 without stipulation. He being ever without virtue in himself that 
 cannot rely upon the virtue of another in whom he seeth the honour of 
 goodness and favour to concur. 
 
 1618, October 10. " Copy of my letter to the Lord Marquis Buck- 
 ingham, delivered to Mr. Secretary." 
 
 Your favour whereof Mr. Secretary hath given me notice as it is 
 far beyond my expectation and merits, so I receive it as a blessing of 
 God. Only be pleased (my good Lord) to accept my poor service 
 without stipulation : he being ever void of virtue in himself that cannot 
 rely upon the virtue of another, specially in whom he seeth the honour 
 of goodness and favour to concur. 
 
 1618, October 17. " Copy of my second letter to the Lord Marquis 
 Buckingham." 
 
 Give me leave in duty and humbleness to put you in mind of some 
 things concerning those propositions for the Navy which by H:'s 
 Majesty's influence at your being here had so good approbation. 
 First, that those names or carcases of ships which cannot be made ser- 
 viceable may be put out of charge and that all dead pays and unlawful 
 allowances censured by the Lords may be discontinued. Secondly, that 
 the ships at Deptford may be better followed and not suffered to hinder 
 new works next year. Thnu'ly, that order be given so to dispose the 
 needful provisions of timber and plauk that they may be ready the next 
 spring. But the life and fruit of our endeavours will depend partly 
 upon the sufficiency of them that shall have the execution, and partly 
 upon the rectifying of the government of the Navy if llpon examina- 
 tion it appear that the frame lately projected, and already in practice 
 and whereby the Navy hath decayed, be a manifest aberration from the 
 ancient institutions and derive all the power and trust to inferior 
 ministers. But this (my good Lord) is a matter beyond our Commis- 
 sion. Only I thought it my duty to move that these things be con- 
 sidered in time so as you may receive your due honour as under His 
 Majesty patron of this work, and the state may enjoy the full benefit of 
 the first fruits of your service in that eminent place.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 99 
 
 1618, October. 18. Westminster. William Pitt to John Coke at Coke M8S. 
 Austin Friars. 
 
 Payments on grant of annuities of 6s. 8d. per diem by patent to Sir 
 Thomas Button till 1612, and since to his Lady. 
 
 1618, October 31. Preston. John Powell (father-in-law) to John 
 Coke "at the house of the Right Honourable Sir Fulke Grevill, 
 Knight, in the Austin Friars near the Dutch Church in London, or at 
 his lodgings in the Court at Whitehall." 
 
 Mr. Elliot is inducted parson of Wolston, and he and my son John 
 are gone to Oxford. I pray to the Lord to turn all to the best for 
 His honour and glory and the good of His Church whereunto I most 
 humbly refer it. Asks assistance in transmitting money. Mr. John 
 Thomas a linen draper in Bristol agreed to purchase my interest in the 
 fines paid in all these parts for 330/. and to pay the rent due for this 
 half year, but I have not heard from him. I entreat you to speak to 
 Mr. Thomas Morgan to pay the whole rent as formerly he hath done, 
 and God willing I will take order to repay it to him. I heartily thank 
 you for procuring those letters from Mr. Secretary to our Bishop, they 
 were very effectual and respectfully accepted and the business thereupon 
 presently despatched. Your son Joseph is more earnest upon his 
 book than your men in sowing, which needeth not for I learn that he is 
 many times up the first in the house of purpose to redeem any time he 
 had lost before the coming of the schoolmaster. All husbandry is 
 very forward in these parts and yours amongst the rest (the Lord be 
 thanked for it) and your people very careful of your business. And so 
 I commit you and us all to the blessed protection of the Almighty. 
 
 1618, November 7. " Copy of my third letter to the Lord Marquess 
 Buckingham." 
 
 That the frame of our Commission to execute what we have pro- 
 jected for the Navy may not be mistaken as derogatory from the Lord 
 Admiral's power the true grounds thereof are briefly these. That in 
 bodies politic as well as natural the parts must have a symmetry and 
 proportion to the head. That this proportion in kingdoms requireth a 
 subordination of officers and magistrates rather than senates or synods, 
 and that therefore the Lord Admiral as a chief officer of the State 
 receiving his virtue and motion from the first mover the King must 
 thereby move and guide all others contained in his orb. First, the 
 principal officers that have their patents anciently from the King may 
 notwithstanding depend upon the Lord Admiral for the recommendation 
 of their ability and worth. Secondly, that all under officers that have 
 lately procured patents during life may again be reduced to the ancient 
 manner of grants from his Lordship during pleasure only. Thirdly, 
 that even this temporary commission may wholly depend upon hi- 
 authority and protection. Be pleased (my good Lord) to consider tlia" 
 the Lord Admiral's greatness is not to have a market under him of bas%* 
 and unworthy people that betray the King's honour and his by the 
 sales of places, havoc of provisions, and ruins of the ships, but his true 
 and real greatness is the power and greatness of the King, the cone 
 fidence of his favour, the trust of his service, and the reputation and 
 flourishing estate of the .Navy. For the guard in harbour (as I told 
 His Majesty) we discharge no men that do service but names and dead 
 pays, leaving the companies so strong that the boatswains themselves 
 do offer with fewer to take charge of their ships. We propound a 
 present discharging of that rabble of loose people now harboured in 
 them, and intend to prepare for a yearly supply of the ablest young 
 men about the Thames whom we would have trained to discharge both 
 
 o 2
 
 100 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 great ordnance and muskets and to make sails and cordage. We desire 
 first that Upnor Castle may be repaired and furnished and restored to 
 the Lord Admiral's command. Secondly, whereas the chain that crossetb 
 the river is a yearly charge and of small use by reason of the length 
 that there be raised a bulwark near the midst of the river where 
 ordnance may be planted. Thirdly, whereas formerly no stranger was 
 permitted to pass up the Medway to come amongst the ships, now the 
 Low Country men daily haunting that way both know the river and the 
 state of the Navy and carry thence fuller's earth for the dressing of 
 our clothes, and store of gold and silver. From Flushing in Zeeland to 
 the ships at Chatham with a good wind and tide one may pass to do 
 mischief in less than ten hours. 
 
 1618, November 13. Ludlow. John Powell to John Coke at the 
 house of the Right Honourable Sir Fulke Greville, Knight, in the 
 Austin Friars or at his lodgings in the Court. 
 
 There has been a hearing of the matter of his interest in the casual 
 profits in Wales before Mr. Justice Sir Henry Townshend and Sir 
 Francis Cave and order made for an account to me. A letter from Mr. 
 Vyner signifies honourable consideration taken by my master of the 
 Clerks of the Signet. I hope his Honour will be pleased in respect 
 the profits of the office are very much increased to add to my allow- 
 ance unto 200/. per annum. This day my man Robert came from home 
 and brought word that my daughter, your wife, with both our families 
 are in good health. 
 
 1618, November 23. Islington. Grace Cavendyshe to Mr. Coke. 
 
 Good Sir, By virtue of that ancient acquaintance which not only 
 myself but also my ancestors have had with you, I am bold to intreat 
 you to do so much kindness for me as to make means to my Lord of 
 Arundel that his honour would be pleased to take survey of the young 
 Countess of Shrewsbury her letters, wherein being duly examined will 
 appear some part of an apology, that I may seem less worthy of blame, 
 for the unwise refusal of the Lord's most honourable offers, whose 
 favours I do so highly esteem, that I do not only desire to redeem their 
 loves, but should repute myself most fortunate to do them any profitable 
 service that is within the extent of my power. I have sent a true copy 
 of the Countess letters by my servant Challenor to deliver them unto 
 you, to the purpose aforesaid. Then commending you to God I rest 
 your assured loving friend. 
 
 1618, December 4. Newmarket. George, Marquis of Buckingham, 
 to John Coke. 
 
 I have acquainted His Majesty with your letter who is exceedingly 
 well pleased with that account you have given him therein of the pro- 
 ceeding in your business touching the Navy. His Majesty is very well 
 pleased that you make a journey into the country according to your 
 desire and that you stay no longer than His service may spare you. As 
 for me you shall ever find me ready to remember His Majesty of your 
 services. 
 
 1618, December 6. Hall Court. John Coke to Sir Robert 
 Naunton, Secretary of State. (A draft.) 
 
 This bearer is a gentleman of the chapel and our honest vicar. Your 
 only favour hath been expressed in drawing my name out of the dark 
 and freely recommending it to those places which the times have valued 
 at so dear rates : besides in your entering your lists for me even in the 
 hazardous inclinations of great men against me. 1 lift up mine eyes to 
 God's hand who halh stirred you up to be the means either to draw me
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 101 
 
 to some employment wherein by His power my weakness may yield Coke MSS. 
 some better fruit of my life or else to assure me that without guiltiness 
 I may possess the rest of my days where He hath planted me already in 
 a contented estate. I acknowledge my tenure and homage to yourself 
 as the only friend that ever took care of me in this kind. 
 
 1618. Sir Fulke Grevyll, Chancellor of the Exchequer, to John 
 Coke, Esquire. 
 
 I have gotten warrant for 22,000/. to be presently assigned to the 
 Navy and the other 10,000/. shall be done upon Tuesday. I asked my 
 Lord Marquis again for your leave to depart. In the mean season 
 believe me I am confident that he will bestow you in a place lit 
 for you. 
 
 About 1618. Lionel Cranfield, Thomas S my the, Richard Weston, 
 Nicholas Fortescue, J. Osborne, R. Sutton, William Pitt, J. Coke, 
 and W. Burrell, Commissioners of the Navy. Their Certificate touching 
 the orders for preventing the indirect exporting of Ordnance. 
 
 1618-1621. Correspondence relating to employment of John 
 Coke in affairs relating to the reformation of the Navy under the 
 Marquis of Buckingham, Lord Admiral. 
 
 1618. Copy of the Marquis of Buckingham's letter to Mr. Secretary 
 Naunton. 
 
 His Majesty hath commanded me to signify His pleasure unto you 
 that you give order unto the Lords that they put into practice these 
 directions of His Majesty. [Here follow the three suggestions in 
 Coke's second letter of October 17, 1618, above, in the same terms.] 
 
 1618. Draft by John Coke of a letter to the Marquis of 
 Buckingham, relating proceedings under a Commission relating to the 
 Navy. 
 
 I presumed not to write till I could give you account of some real 
 service done in the Navy, whereby His Majesty by the fruit of your 
 entrance might have a pledge of the hopeful success of your government 
 hereafter. We have laid up the Gallies and other unserviceable vessels, 
 have cut oft* half His Majesty's ordinary expense. We have employed 
 two of the decayed ships to make the new dock. The " Destiny " which 
 was lately Sir Walter Raleigh's ship is now at Chatham, whether upon 
 the change of property to alter her name I leave to your Honour's 
 wisdom. We have showed unto the Lords the defects of a brief account 
 delivered in by Sir Robert Mansel. With the arrearage of his former 
 account Sir William Russell is in hand. The chief difficulty was how 
 to be rid of that rabble of loose people trusted in the ships, to pay them 
 was not possible out of the ordinary receipts, and to turn them out 
 without wages would be a scandal to the service besides the clamour 
 and danger that would follow. I have persuaded the Treasurer of the 
 Navy to disburse for His Majesty's service herein 5,000/. By this 
 means I hope we shall change a great part of the guard of the ships. 
 If it please your Honour by Mr. Secretary or otherwise to take notice of 
 Sir William Russell's forwardness herein it will encourage him to take 
 like care hereafter to settle other arrearages. For the two ships at 
 Deptford we are put in good hope in March at the furthest to see them 
 both afloat, so as we may begin new works. And now my good Lord 
 all things being settled for the time in good course I am bold upon your 
 leave to affect 6 months absence to repair homewards to visit my family 
 with purpose by God's favour to return in due time to proceed on this 
 or any other business.
 
 102 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CogBjtss. Draft by J. Coke of Mr. Chancellor's (of the Exchequer) to the 
 Marquis of Buckingham. 
 
 What the Commissioners have performed by this copy of their brief 
 your Honour may understand. The fruit whereof will be to cut off 
 presently 4,457 J. yearly of His Majesty's charge and to bring in out of 
 the spoils made by the officers of the Navy above 2,000/. debt. For 
 recovery of the monies the examination is committed to Sir Edward 
 Coke and myself and if it would please His Majesty to join yourself my 
 Lord of Arundel, and Mr. Secretary, with us we should perhaps bring 
 further light and matter to the service. Whereas the Commissioners 
 require that a purveyor should be sent presently to take order for the 
 provision of timber and plank, please it Your Lordship to consider 
 whether it were not meet to give authority to the Commissioners to 
 choose the man. For this be assured that the officers of the Navy 
 cannot be made fit instruments to put that in practice which discovereth 
 their shame. 
 
 1618-9, January 2. London. Edward Reed to John Coke, Hale 
 Court. 
 
 I did meet Mr. Secretary at Court [Sir E. Naunton] going towards 
 the King ; he told me he had sent you a letter from my Lord Marquis. 
 The Commission of Ambassadors from the States being to require 
 satisfaction for wrongs to the Dutch by the English and not to give 
 satisfaction for wrongs to the English, I hear they are to return. The 
 Marquis Eonye [Eosny] is expected from France. As yet Paules hath 
 no speech of his business, but many wish him a good entertainment; 
 You make some motion for a chamber near St. Helens : please you to 
 have a chamber in the house where I lie. 
 
 1618-9, January 2. Henry Vyner to John Coke at Hale Court. 
 
 My Master earnest to have a vessel of good sweet cider in the must, 
 but how to get any without your help, he knows not. The Auditor 
 hankers after your return. 
 
 Also draft of Coke's reply. " Give me leave to doubt whether 
 it may be convenient to make offer of this kind of drink to His Majesty. 
 I suddenly fell this last week into a violent bleeding of the nose. This 
 accident I could trace to no other cause but the cider which made the 
 blood thin." 
 
 1618-9, January 9. Austin Friars. Sir Fulke Grevyll to John 
 Coke at Hale Court. 
 
 The two ships will be launched by the time appointed, all things 
 else in that Commission prosperously goes on. Other news there is 
 none only Sir Lewis Stuckley is lately committed to the Gate house for 
 clipping of gold. 
 
 1618-9, January 15. Austin Friars. Sir Fulke Grevyll to John Coke 
 at Hale Court in the parish of Much Marcle. 
 
 I thank you heartily for your letters. You have given so many sound 
 reasons for stay of the Cyder (now the must is so long pastj that 
 I resolve to suffer this year to slip over and will desire your help here- 
 after. The Commission for the Navy is not yet past by reason of the 
 curiosity of my Lord Chancellor and Sir Edward Coke who are the chief 
 actors in it, and now I think it will not be despatched until my Lord of 
 Buckingham's patent for the Admiralty be sealed (which is every day 
 expected). So soon as this Commission is done you shall hear from 
 me how all things stand. In the meantime you shall understand the 
 assignments of money for the Navy (as I wrote to you before) do con-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 103 
 
 stantly hold and all things else go currently on. Sir Lyonell Cranfield 
 is Master of the Wards this is all the news this time affords. 
 
 The banquetting house at Whitehall was on Tuesday night set on 
 fire (by what mischance we yet know not) but all that goodly room 
 utterly consumed between the hours of 10 and 12 of the clock in the 
 daytime. Nothing is left but the walls and these not fit to build on 
 again. All the records of the signet and privy seal offices are burnt and 
 the whole house was in great danger if there had not been great care 
 and sudden help. W. V. (William Vyner). 
 
 1618-9, January 16. London. Edward Eeed to John Coke, Hale 
 Court. 
 
 Upon Tuesday last the Banqueting house at Whitehall was burned to 
 the ground, the walls only remaining, the Duke's lodgings, my Lord 
 Chancellor's, my Lord Chamberlain, the terrace between the Banqueting 
 House and the great chamber stairs are part burnt and rent down to save 
 the rest. Sir Lewis Stuckley taken clipping of gold and sent to the 
 Gatehouse. Sir Lionel Cranfield Master of the Wards. A prognosti- 
 cator imprisoned who affirmeth that all Westminster should be burnt 
 within a month. 
 
 1618-9, February 5. In the writing of John Coke. 
 " A book containing the particular rents and revenues, pensions, fees 
 and offices of the right hon. George, Marquis and Earl of Buckingham.'' 
 
 Bucks 
 
 Leicestershire 
 
 Essex 
 
 Whaddon & Nash- 
 
 Biddlesden 
 
 Water Eaton, Bleathley - 
 
 Fenny Stratford Little 
 
 Brickhill 
 Dalby 
 Broughton 
 Wanstead - 
 
 560.14. 7 Possession. 
 453.10. 2 
 
 e > 428. 
 
 10. 6 
 
 698.19.11 
 
 487. 
 362. 8. 3 
 
 Sum total of lands in possession besides 
 
 the Chase, woods, and parks - - 2,991.2. 2 (sic) 
 
 A particular of the Manors estreated by the attainder of the Lord of 
 Somerset, in Essex, late the Lord Darcy's, after the Lord Darcy's death 
 granted to the Earl of Buckingham. 
 
 Essex - - Bromont hall, Moze hall," 
 
 Great Okeley hall, 
 
 Little Okeley hall, ^1,107.13.11 Eeversioo. 
 Sheghaw, Moze Park, 
 Okeley Park - - j 
 
 Manors lately granted by several letters patent. 
 Yorkshire - Kirkby Moorside, Fray-~ 
 starre Besingley,Burton 
 Fleming 
 (louxhill, Fleet - 
 Over-halliock 
 Nether-halliock - 
 Hartington 
 
 Comb Smete and Bingley 
 Brandon, Brandon ferry - 
 
 Annuity out of Court of Wards 1000 1 . Justice in Eyre 166.13.4. 
 Master of the Horse 66.13.4, diet 10 dishes, horses liveries & gift of ali 
 
 Lincolnshire - 
 Leicestershire - 
 
 Derbyshire 
 Warwickshire - 
 Suffolk 
 
 y 738.6. Reversion.
 
 104 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 places in the Stables. Grant of the Imposition of 3 d in the pound upon 
 merchant strangers 1300 1 . Chief Clerk of the King's Bench 4000 1 . 
 Grant of the Customs of Ireland 20O0 1 . High Admiral of England 
 during life lSS 1 ^ Keeping of Hampton Court 6^.6.8. Fees as 
 Viscount, Earl, and Marquis, out of the Customs of the Port of London 
 63!.6.8. 
 
 1618-9, February 18. John Coke to his wife. 
 
 Since my coming I have been many times with Mr. Secretary and as 
 often with my Lord Marquis and twice his Lordship hath brought me 
 privately to the King : who vouchsafed in the presence only of the 
 Prince, the Lord Marquis, and Mr. Secretary, to spend above half an 
 hour with me in debating a matter of great weight. My Lord Marquis 
 hath joined me in commission with Sir Lionel Cranfield to take a view 
 of his own private estate and to give our advice how to settle and order 
 his affairs. He hath privately to myself nominated the place to which 
 he designeth me. The news here is that Sir Thomas Lake and his Lady 
 and the Lady Boss and one of his sons after their sentence in the Star 
 Chamber are committed to the Tower, and Sir George Calvert one of 
 the Clerks of the Council is now Secretary in his place. Mr. Chancellor 
 now useth me with favour and respect. 
 
 1618-9, February . J. Coke. Copy of my letter to Mr. Secre- 
 tary Naunton showed to the King, and thereupon I had access to His 
 Majesty at Whitehall. 
 
 As the letter you sent me from the Lord Marquis required I have 
 made a speedy return. I will do my best endeavour to further the pre- 
 paration of the six ships [for Algiers]. Before my going down with Sir 
 Lionel Cranfield's and Mr. Solicitor's advice I did my best so to frame 
 our Commission as under His Lordship's authority and protection we 
 might be enabled to perform our service. To speak plaiu, we are twelve 
 Commissioners all goers to the Church and all good subjects as I hope, 
 yet not all of one faith as appeareth by a dispensation gotten by one not 
 to take the oath of allegiance. Since a worthy Lord Admiral is now 
 established the question I move is whether it be meet that the services 
 of the state, which concern not our propositions but other actions at sea, 
 should be now governed by general warrants to all the Commissioners or 
 else reduced to the ancient form, which is that the Lord Admiral re- 
 ceiving his instructions from the King should by his orders and warrants 
 commit the execution of every part of the service to so many or so few 
 and by such degrees as the service shall require. In this preparation 
 against pirates it may be conceived the state hath some further design, 
 and if it be governed by such general warrants it will go slowly on, the 
 Gazettes of Venice will take notice of it as they have done of our former 
 propositions. But if it be thought fit to carry it by the trust of a few 
 and by degrees by this unexpected preparation His Majesty's sea forces 
 should be redeemed from contempt ; His present treaties with our 
 neighbours shall have more reputation : foreign princes will with more 
 respect proceed in their attempts, and if they find any interruptions in 
 their principal designs they shall not have the advantage of our security 
 and nakedness to redeem their honours by falling on us. My Lords 
 noble favour maketh me wish unto him this honour in the entrance of 
 his office. 
 
 1618-9, March . Draft by John Coke of a letter from the Com- 
 missioners of the Navy to the Marquis of Buckingham, Lord Admiral. 
 
 Of four letters from your Honour [two concerned the cook rooms, to 
 continue that in the " Anne " and remove the rest. The third letter for
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 105 
 
 Sir William Russell was grounded upon your honourable favour for him. cokb MSS. 
 We have often invited him and never forborne to participate with him 
 
 but when His Majesty's service required some consideration apart. For 
 the last letter we marvel that Captain Mervyn and the rest being gentle- 
 men of worth will importune your Honour in that which apparently 
 concerneth not the safety and service of the King's ships but their par- 
 ticular advantage for retinues and dead pays. The masters of the 
 King's ships have vouched under their hands that with fewer men in 
 as great ships they have encountered strong enemies and prevailed 
 against them in very great fights. As we have heretofore complained, 
 His Majesty's ships are often so ill manned that they are ready prizes 
 to any that dare assail them, but the true cause hereof is not this limi- 
 tation of their number, but this great disorder crept into the ships, with 
 many other corruptions, that the Commanders and Captains almost never 
 come on board. This no other state endureth nor did ours in former 
 times. The ships in the narrow seas which should pursue pirates, 
 guard our coasts and our merchants, observe what cometh in and out at 
 home, and discover the preparations and practices abroad, now do nothing 
 else but waste the King's cordage with riding out all weathers in the 
 Downs, or else thrust into some harbour where the companies run ashore 
 and scatter, and yet charge His Majesty with wages and victuals as if 
 they were fed and in service : and the captains, receiving not only their 
 large wages upon the sea books but also double and never-heard-of 
 allowances out of the Exchequer, spend all at London, or at home, or 
 elsewhere at their pleasure. All which we leave to your Honourable 
 consideration so as both His Majesty and your country and posterity 
 may rejoice in the fruits of your labours and the honour of your name. 
 
 1619, April 24s J. Coke. " Copy of a letter to my Lord Marquis 
 Buckingham." 
 
 Yesterday Mr. Chancellor acquainted me with his purpose to solicit 
 your Lordship on my behalf for a place supposed to be now in question. 
 The occasion proceeded not from me, only I did not divert him from it 
 lest thereby he might apprehend some suspicion of that which your 
 Honour hath required me to conceal. Be pleased therefore (my good 
 Lord) not to think me immodest or distrustful, or willing to importune 
 your favour, which I find so free and noble that I rest quiet and ready 
 to be disposed when and where your Honour shall think fit. The 
 " Speedwell " is prepared for my Lord of Doncaster. 
 
 1619, April 30. Paris. Friar Angel Englis, Capuchin Priest, to the 
 Right Honourable the Earl of Arundel. 
 
 Jesus f Maria. I placed my sister with you not that she should by 
 this her fault and disobedience exasperate your clemency and be un- 
 grateful to your charity in so fondly deluding herself in so foolish a 
 choice, without your consent. I thought to provide fbr her good a 
 well spiritual as corporal that hereby she might have better and freer 
 mean3 to be established in the Catholic faith, for I full well knew your 
 house to be so far remoted from any persons of suspected religion, and 
 your family so catholicly given, which you have ever sincerely kept and 
 devoutly professed that you abhor and detest all other religions as 
 impious and pernicious doctrines introduced by the devil to the per- 
 dition of men's souls. Have me excused in recommending her unto 
 you to forgive this infirmity in what she hath offended your clemency. 
 
 1619, May 6. Theobalds. George Villiers, Marquis of Buckingham, 
 to John Coke, Esquire. 
 
 Though I returned no answer to your letters and discourse upon the 
 intended voyage to Algiers, hoping ere now to have had time to speak
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 106 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 with you and give you thanks for your pains and care, yet you see I 
 have made good use of them and followed that way which you chalked 
 out. At Whitehall or Greenwich I shall have leisure to confer with 
 you at large and desire you in the meanwhile to propose those overtures 
 concerning the Navy which you mentioned in your letter. 
 
 1619. July 15. Draft by John Coke of a Reply by the Com- 
 missioners of the Navy addressed to the Lord High Admiral, to the 
 accusation that they unduly stinted the service by undermanning ships 
 of war and merchant ships. (Sent by Sir Lionel Cran field, Master of 
 the Wards.) 
 
 1619, September 28. " Copy of His Majesty's letter to the Lord 
 Deputy Grandison in acceptation of Sir Richard Bolton his good 
 services." Commending his behaviour when the award betwixt the 
 Earls of Ormond and Desmond was published at the Council Table in 
 Ireland, and directing that in a full assembly of the same Board he 
 should be let know that for his honesty and abilities he was advanced to 
 be Solicitor by the King's own especial choice. 
 
 1619, October 24. Draft by J. Coke of a letter from the Com- 
 missioners of the Navy to the Lord Admiral. 
 
 What oppositions we endured and what envy was cast upon us for 
 our propositions concerning the decays of the ships is best known to 
 your Lordship. Now being required to renew our certificate for the 
 examination of new offices and grants, the causes (as we conceived) of 
 those decays and disorders, though we labour therein chiefly to restore 
 the Lord Admiral's authority in disposing all places of the Navy to 
 honest and able men for His Majesty's service, yet we find our 
 endeavours again made doubtful to your Lordship in the case of John 
 Man. He pretended to a sixth master's place, and to an allowance of 
 an extraordinary assistant. We declared how his demands stood not 
 with that order which His Majesty, your Honour and the Lords had 
 established : whereupon Man procured another warrant to the Admiral 
 of the Narrow Seas to place him Master in his ship, but he also appealed 
 to your Honour against him. Man presently reproached the Commis- 
 sioners in general and particularly threatened with others to kill M r 
 Burrell, and further if he should not be satisfied in his suits that England 
 should not hold him and that he would turn pirate and be as dangerous 
 an enemy to this state as ever any was. [Relation of curious compli- 
 cation of summary proceedings by Justices and in the Admiralty Court.] 
 Lastly we profess we will not importune your Lordship to uphold our 
 credits or secure our persons further than may concern the honour and 
 interest of His Majesty's service and your own government and place. 
 
 1619. Di Norimbergo con lettera di 12 Novembre st. vecchio. 
 
 Addi 9 di questo la sera assai al tardi giunse qui il Re Bohemio 
 stato incontrato da Principi che qui si trovano cio e il Marchez di 
 Anspach Lantgravia di Hess 3 di Wirtemberg et 3 di Waimar ben 
 accompagnati. Oltre di cio da 200 corazze a cavallo et molti citta- 
 dini volontarii. II Senato li maudo a 4 leghe di qua dui signori per 
 riceverlo et regalarlo a quella desinata. S. M. aveva poche genti 
 siando venuto in un giorno d'Amborga ma li suoi sono venuti avanti 
 et poi. Questa mattina a 12 il Re e andato in consiglio con il 
 sequito di tutti li Principi et altri signori et con tal regal apresto 
 che il simile non ho mai visto. L'Elettor di Sassonia non ci ha 
 nessuno Ambasciatore et si mostra verso li altri poco agradevole. 
 Questi Principi fanno del continuo la Corte al Re con un rispetto
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 107 
 
 straordinario. II Signor accompagni il tutto di sua benedittione. CoKS MSS - 
 Doppo scritto vengano gente del Signor Ambasciatore che ha preso 
 il suo camino per Venetia et manda qua da 30 persone eon il bag- 
 aggio. Quitlaw con la compagnia sara qui dcmani. 
 
 1619, November 30. Newmarket. John Packer to John Coke. 
 My Lord will grant you the liberty you desire for this Christmastime 
 not doubting that you will make haste back again. 
 
 1619. Printed " Copy of the Preamble for the Subscriptions, inti- 
 mating the Conditions of Adventure " to be underwritten with the 
 names of those who promise and engage themselves to Roger North 
 Esquire, and Robert Harcourt Esquire, to adventure the sums to be 
 expressed in the Corporation about to be granted by the name of the 
 Governor and Compauy of Noblemen and Gentlemen of the City of 
 London Adventurers. 
 
 [1619 ?] Draft in J. Coke's writing of a letter from the Com- 
 missioners of the Navy to the officers at Chatham to certify stores, &c. 
 needed. 
 
 We have attended the Council of War and find an honourable desire 
 in the Lords to supply all the defects in the Navy to the end it may be 
 fit for service upon all sudden occasions. What the wants are they 
 require us to consider and notify . . . These things must be notified 
 speedily yet so as more care be taken to do it substantially and fully 
 though you take the more time. Which we heartily entreat you to do 
 with all faithfulness. [No names.] 
 
 1619-20, January 6. The Mynd. Walter Pye to J. Coke at his 
 house at Kynaston in the parish of Much Marcle. Wishes that their 
 journey towards London may be at the same time that they might ride 
 together. 
 
 1619-20, January 12. Austin Friars. Sir Fulke Grevyll, Chancellor 
 of the Exchequer, to John Coke at Hale Court in the parish of 
 Much Marcle. 
 
 M r Coke I am commanded to send presently for you and therefore 
 for good company this bearer comes of purpose to bring you hither. 
 Come provided to stay here only one night and the next day to go from 
 hence to Newmarket. 
 
 1619-20, January 8. Robert Pye to John Coke. 
 
 News is now but dead when sports doth take most place. Presently 
 an Ambassador came from the King of Bohemia but was not publicly 
 entertained, neither doth His Majesty yet declare himself. My Lord of 
 Suffolk's fine is all extended and Sir John Bingley doth keep his place, 
 he hath paid 1,000/. of his fine. The Dutchmen are fined at 160,000/. 
 near, but little thereof can yet be had ; as many as are taken are in 
 prison and their houses seized but little found in them. 
 
 1619-20, March 8. to Sir Giles Mompesson. 
 
 For that main point whereof you wrote concerning the charge of 
 bringing in the revenue I have given order for an abstract to be made 
 up to-morrow. The next way to get the certificate of the Auditors 
 perfected as you desire will be if you please to set down by way of 
 Instructions what you would have enlarged and mended in every several 
 book. 
 
 1620, April 8. Bath House. John Coke to Mrs. Marie Coke, at 
 Hale Court in the parish of Much Marcle. 
 
 We received a new commandment from the King to hasten his fleet. 
 Now we begin in London to raise a voluntary contribution for his aid,
 
 108 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 wherein the rich proceed with caution, hut the common sort with a 
 strange heartiness and zeal. 
 
 Our business in the Tower proveth very important and were alone a 
 sufficient cause to stay me here till it be ended. And when we have 
 given the King and our country as good an account in that as we have 
 done in the Navy I presume I may justly challenge freedom to attend 
 my own estate. I send you in a square box all the petty provisions 
 you write for, namely for yourself a satin mask, a rabate, and 2 yards of 
 cobweb lawn, a thousand yellow pins and the book called the Practice 
 of Piety. And for the children a cruwel coife and 2 green masks : your 
 saddle and furniture shall not be forgotten. One thing there is much 
 against my heart that you should still trouble yourself with those 
 services which are proper for your maids. If Truthgrow be not able, 
 call your goddaughter or hire some other to wait upon you : comfort 
 her and let her know she is esteemed and that we desire her health and 
 welfare as much as her service. I think you shall do well to send forth 
 your wheat and your cheese. Tell Joseph I forget not a Lexicon for 
 him. 
 
 1620, April 20. Padua. Thomas Coke to John Coke, Hale 
 Court. The Venetian Dragoman at Constantinople hanged by com- 
 mand of the Grand Vizier, who was Admiral some fcw years since when 
 the Venetians took some Turkey gallies. I have sent some good 
 mithridate into England ; it is meant to my sister at Hale Court, and 
 part to Trusley. 
 
 1620, May 1. Padua. Thomas Coke to John Coke. 
 
 This State wishes good success to the King of Bohemia, but this 
 town is Austrian. Foreign news. I thank God for the recovery of 
 my sisters at Hale Court and Trusley. I am glad to hear your business 
 for the public succeeds so well ; I know it encourages you against what 
 you suffer in your private. You have a proverb in your little book 
 che bisogna salvar e la cupra e i caoli : and (rod knows how such things 
 may be done. 
 
 1620, April 27. Hale Court. Peter Mease to John Coke at Sir 
 Foulke Grevill's house in the Austin Friars. 
 
 Would be a candidate for the place of " Gymnasiarch " of Coleway 
 School near Ledbury if Mr. Coke approve. It is in gift of Aromatarii 
 (Grocers) of Loudon. Latin. 
 
 1620, May 5. Hale Court. Peter Mease to John Coke at Sir Fulke 
 Grevill's, Austin Friars. 
 
 The same subject. " Penelope tua valet ut nunquam melius Johannes 
 tuus valet ut caeteri etiam et ancilla tua convaluit." 
 
 1620, May 16. John Coke to the Lord Marquis Buckingham. 
 
 Copy of a letter respecting the patents of the Storekeeper of the 
 Navy, and of the Keeper of the outstores at Deptford, both held by 
 Mr. Wells, the latter having been presented by the Commissioners as a 
 newly erected office and prejudicial to the King's service. 
 
 1620, June 8. Hall Court. Peter Mease to John Coke at Sir 
 Fulke Greville's house in the Austin Friars. 
 
 Novissimo die Saturni dum te sine Uteris expectamus, accepimus 
 tandem tuas sine te literas. Quod quidem cum non sine aliquo dolore 
 omnium factum sit turn maximo Penelopes tuae. Non est quod animum 
 huic schola? penitus infixum opineris quin potius arbitrere tibi tuisque 
 ita devotum ut ab hoc munere fungendo sine liberrimo tuo consensu
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 109 
 
 tlivelli nequaquam velit, velim itaque consilio uti tuo deinde opera. Coke MSS. 
 Utcunque gratias ago quam amplissimas quod apud Aromatarios egisti : 
 reliqua res hie penes est Dn. Philips Lidburiensem duosque alios quos 
 facillime niihi coaciliabit auctoritas tua. Josephus jam uudecimam 
 Iliadis rhapsodiam aggressus est, singulis diebus 60 versus ediscit. 
 
 1620 (about), June 13. Harrolds Court. Sir Fulke Grevyll to 
 John Coke at Preston. 
 
 The proceeding and success of this untimely begun business of the 
 Navy I had rather time and rumour did acquaint you with than 
 any discourse of mine .... a summons received at Harrolds Park 
 to appear the morrow after at Greenwich and accordingly I was there 
 . . . the King in person was pleased constantly to endure the hearing 
 fi'om morning to night both Friday and Saturday not beginning on 
 
 Thursday till the afternoon let me acquaint you what I 
 
 received from the Lord Chancellor after one of the sittings concerning 
 
 our Welsh business the ground of this advertisement is an 
 
 appeal to your own heart what prejudice may grow to me in these offices 
 if your father [Mr. Powell] should neglect them there at my Lords 
 coming down as the world judgeth he hath done here 
 
 1620, June 20. The Dreadnought, one of the King's ships lying 
 in the Hope three miles from Gravesend. Edward Powell to John 
 Coke at Sir Fulke Greville's house in Holborn. 
 
 Captain Morris hath placed me in the gun room. The master of the 
 ship useth me very well, and his mate too, and I hope I shall deserve 
 no less of them. 
 
 1620, October 7. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to John Coke at Hale 
 Court in Herefordshire. 
 
 I have received your letters by Mr. Agard . . . My brother George is 
 now here with purpose that he and I should have come to you to 
 Herefordshire, but the weather is fallen out so exceeding ill and the ways 
 so foul and harvest by reason thereof so late and our seedtime now 
 passing away we having done nothing therein, that wo know not yet 
 what we can do in our intended journey to you. ... I pray you excuse us 
 until the next spring, at which time (if God will) we vow not to fail, 
 you know my brother's weak body unfit for a long journey. Good 
 brother answer for me to my sister. 
 
 1620, October 28. London. Sir Francis Goston to John Coke. 
 
 The Fleet went into the Downs from whence the General with his 
 troop of Captains came posting up to Windsor to kiss the King's hand 
 and thereby lost a fair wind. The tenth of this month we launched 
 our ships at Deptford dock at two tides, the greater called the Victory 
 of 870 ton and the lesser the Garland of 680 ton. Mr. Phinees Pett 
 in building them is gone above 600/. beyond the sum agreed on by his 
 contract. The new dock is finished. The letters we receive from our 
 great Lord are spiced with some few compliments formerly not usual. 
 
 1620, October 29. Padua. Thomas Coke to John Coke at Hall 
 Court in the parish of Much Marcle. 
 
 . . . era veramente necessario di servirmi delle parole Venetiane priu- 
 cipalmente di quelle che sono correnti in quel mestiero ... La presenza 
 dell' Ece m * nostra sign Contessa che mi ha ristretto in quelli termini 
 di tempo che non bastavano a chiarirmi meglio . . . Ho havuto ultimamente 
 -due lettere da V. S. nella quale ella scrive la sua bella Ritirata a Hall 
 Court et il ritoruoti quelle esercitii di Villa. Del che per dir la verita 
 io mi stupisco. ... II signor Me;e mi scrive la sua diligeutia usata con i
 
 110 HISTORICAL MANUSCEIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 coke MSS. miei nipolini e i progressi loro con l'aviso del buon essere di tutta la 
 famiglia. II che m'ha recato quella consolatione che mi fa ringiovinare. 
 V. S. mi f'accia la gratia di salutarli tutti per nome et che non vi sia fra 
 gli ultimi il mio Tomminino (benche poco correspondente al nome) 
 col quale io mi rallegro che sia cosi vivamente saltato dalla culla in un 
 Corderio . . 
 
 1620, November 6. Robert Pye to J. Coke Esq. at his house in 
 Much Marcle. 
 
 I have at large remembered your business to my Lord Marquis, his 
 Lordship's conclusion s was that he would not forget you. I hope and 
 am assured all is well. 
 
 (1620) about. Draft in Coke's writing, indorsed by him. 
 
 " Commissioners to the Lord Admiral concerning ships to be sent 
 to Algiers." As your Lordship required we send herewith an estimate 
 of the charge of His Majesty's six ships to be employed against the 
 pirates in the Straits. 
 
 (1620) about. Draft in J. Coke's writing, indorsed by him. 
 
 " Copy of the Commissioners letter to the Lord Admiral." We have 
 delivered plots and estimates of the pinnaces to Sir Robert Mansel. But 
 for the building thereof the shipwrights tell us they are unprovided of 
 materials. Besides we conceive that a greater multitude of pinnaces 
 serve only private towns. 
 
 (1620) about. Draft in the writing of Coke of part of a letter 
 indorsed by him " Copy of a letter from the Commissioners to the Lord 
 Admiral," as to what expenses of an expedition they have authority to 
 pay, and what not. 
 
 1620, . The Court. Sir Fulke Grevyll, Chancellor of the Ex- 
 chequer, to John Coke. 
 
 The office we spake of long since I doubt will not fall to your share. 
 Notwithstanding be confident better will come and that shortly, for I 
 have since I came hither upon divers occasions seen both the King and 
 my Lord of Buckingham's mind clearly of you. Honest Naunton 
 continues your noble friend. Shew this to Sir Lionel Cranfield, sound 
 his opinion. If you find change, fashion him as well as you can against 
 your coming here on Sunday. 
 
 No date. Probably from Beauchamp Court near Warwick. Fulke 
 Grevyll Lord Brooke to Sir John Coke. 
 
 From this place there is nothing to be expected but that the old 
 house and master of it are as they were wont, glad to hear from you 
 when they cannot see you. Notwithstanding we have news from 
 Coventry that the Dutch are overthrown in Brazil. Our ships at first 
 lent the French king by contract now absolutely delivered without any 
 caution. The sickness in London threatens to exceed the former week. 
 Wars feed upon men and money, therefore God prosper your endeavours 
 in the one, and in the other cease his punishing hand. Be confident 
 that while 1 live I am and will be your true loving friend. 
 
 1620-1, February 26. Valentine Carey (brother-in-law) to John 
 Coke. 
 
 I possess a little land which I bought as holding de domino rege 
 
 per servitium parvae serjantiae . . . one Fitz John (a man unknown to 
 me) goes about to vex and molest me and hath procured an order to be 
 made in the Court of Wards for a commission to find out another tenure, 
 and to be sped not at Cambridge the chiefest and next good town but 
 at Royston. My request to you is this that you would mediate for me
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. Ill 
 
 to the Right Honourable the Master of the Wards . . . that in regard of Coke MSS. 
 my attendance at the convocation and of my many great business both 
 for the Church of Paul's and Christ College in Cambridge, whereof I 
 have the charge, the prosecution of this thing and the speeding of this 
 commission may be deferred. . . . 
 
 1620-1, March 3, Deptford. \V. Burrell to Mr. Coke one of the 
 Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy . 
 
 Asks favourable consideration of claim of Mr. Bullock for Dungeness 
 Light of which he was first inventor and the builder at great charge. 
 
 1620-1, March 20. Deptford. William Burrell, Master of the Com- 
 pany of Shipwrights, to John Coke one of the Commissioners of His 
 Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Upon a sudden report that certain owners about Ipswich have 
 preferred a Bill in Parliament for dissolving our poor Company I 
 address my earnest request unto you who are a member of the House, 
 and I presume a loving friend to our profession. I entreat to under- 
 stand from you the particular proceeding against us and to be advised 
 how we may come to make our just defence, the rather because our 
 workmen are already growing into a mutinous faction to oppose our 
 orders. 
 
 1621, April 20. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke. (No address). 
 
 Good Brother, my brother Thomas his tenant is the most churlish 
 fellow that lives and will not pay his rent but when he list, and I am 
 much troubled with him especially now the times are a little hard, 
 therefore I have entreated my cousin Woodcock to advise with you 
 how you may send him 20/. from me until I can receive his rent, which 
 20/. my cousin hath of money he should have paid me now ... I pray 
 God bless you and be at all your consultations in the parliament house 
 (for the eyes of the world are now set upon you) and give you a happy 
 conclusion. My wife and all our family commend their loves and duties 
 to you. . . . My wife hath sent you a handkerchief, a small token of her 
 love. 
 
 1621, May 7. Hale. Peter Mease to John Coke at Bath house in 
 Holborn. 
 
 Josephus tuus, Euripidis Iphigenia in Aulide jam transacta, Aristo- 
 phanis Plutum fere edidicit. Johannes cum Hoinero et Theognide 
 Euripidis sententias discit. Desires to borrow 4/. for his proceeding 
 Master at Cambridge. 
 
 1621. May 19. London. John Coke to Peter Mease. (Copy.j 
 
 Merito te plurimi facio (Petre carissime) quod te magistro pueri 
 nostri in Uteris etiam supra aetatem profecerint. Nam mihi in omni 
 vita nihil accidit jucundius quam quod dei beneficio sperem me filiolos 
 ita a te institutos relicturum ut sint poster is si non ornamento saltern 
 non dedecori futuri. . . . Perge igitur (quod facis) dulcissima parentum 
 pignora fovere. Nam in ilia aetatula deficiunt et animorum vires fi 
 corpora languescant. Accedant ad studia alacres, alacres recedant. Te 
 magistrum sic metuant ut anient magis. De me quaeso persuasuin 
 habeas nulla in re tibi defect urum qua grati animi testimonium ostendere 
 quaque tuain dignitatem aut commodun promovere possim. Comitiorum 
 perendinationem post mensem expectamus ; turn demum omnes de reditu 
 cogitabimus. Broghtono salutem meo nomine dicito : etiam nos id agere 
 ut non minus ecclesiae quam reipublicae gravamina nobis curae esse 
 omnes intelligant. Si quid novi ab hoc nuntio sciee. Cura valetudinem 
 tuam et nos ama. Vale, certissime tuus Job. Coceus.
 
 112 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1621, June 6. J.Coke. " Copy of my letter to my Lord Marquis 
 
 Buckingham sent by M r Chancellor to Theobalds and delivered 9 th 
 June." 
 
 Right Honourable, Your late assurance that at this adjournment I 
 should know His Majesty's pleasure gave me much comfort, and the 
 sense of my estate and time spent make me now bold to put your Lord- 
 ship in remembrance thereof. All my endeavours have (I confess) 
 proceeded but from duty, and I account the good success to be a happy 
 reward. Other merit I plead none but the interest your Lordship hath 
 been pleased to give me in your favour and the readiness of my heart to 
 do His Majesty and your Honour true and faithful service wheresoever 
 you place me. Only give me leave in all humbleness to intreat that as 
 your Honour at first accepted me of your own noble and free motion, 
 so you will now fashion me and set no stamp upon me but His Majesty's 
 and your own. Your Honour best knoweth whether I have been 
 hitherto negligent or importune, or whether I have quietly and confidently 
 relied upon the expression you have been pleased to make of your own 
 goodness towards me, and made it my anchor hold to dedicate my 
 service and obligation entirely to his sacred Majesty and yourself. A 
 better foundation to build upon I cannot wish in this world, and there- 
 fore humbly attending your good pleasure I rest your Lordship's faithful 
 and obedient servant. 
 
 1621, July 16. J. Coke. " Copy of my letter to the Lord Marquis 
 Buckingham, Lord Admiral." 
 
 His Majesty's gracious promise, confirmed by nominating so eminent 
 witnesses and mediators on my behalf and your Lordship's most ingenuous 
 and rare descant in expressing unto him a true sense of my estate, as 
 they have given me much confidence and comfort so they require of me 
 all duty and service, and some account before my going home how the 
 King's businesses are left. For the fleet returning from Algiers, that 
 which properly concerneth you is the clamour of the Captains. I dare 
 not persuade you to follow the excess used of late, when to the great 
 prejudice of the state and service almost every Captain got Admiral's 
 pay. I know no precedent of above five marks a day allowed to the 
 Lord Admiral himself till your predecessor at the late transportation of 
 the Lady Elizabeth obtained four pounds. His son in law Sir Richard 
 Leveson had never more than forty shillings. The Vice Admiral's pay 
 was half the Admiral's, and the Rear Admiral's half the Vice Admiral's. 
 Ordinary captains had at first but 18d., which many years since was raised 
 to half a crown. I suppose your Lordship will not raise it to more than 
 five shillings a day. From the Navy I come to the Ordnance concerning 
 which your Lordship may remember our propositions for saving 40,000/. 
 in the magazine aad 10,000/. a year in the ordinary charge. Pardon 
 (ray good Lord) my length and my taking leave at this time, which for 
 the comfort of my family after so long absence and for the necessity of 
 my estate I am forced to do, and since it hath pleased His Majesty to 
 nominate the Prince's Highness & yourself to be His Remembrancers 
 for me, let me not languish and grow older in the hands of so powerful 
 angels, but perfect your own work and enable me some way to give His 
 Majesty and yourself some account of my life, which is all my ambition. 
 
 1621, July 26. Sir Walter Pye to John Coke at his house at 
 Hall Court. 
 
 I desire much to hear you have the effect of some of your deservings, 
 the rest by God's grace will follow. I purpose to see you at your house 
 on Monday morning next if I hear not of your being abroad, for my 
 Avife hath enjoined me to attend her to Rudhall on Saturday next. 1 
 am well assured it would save me some money.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 113 
 
 1621, August 25. London. John Dawson to John Coke. Coke MSS. 
 
 The Lord Keeper writes himself Bishop Elect of Lincoln ; but they 
 
 say he will not be consecrated by the Lord Archbishop because he 
 doubts of the lawfulness of it by reason of his unhappy misfortune. 
 They whisper here that my Lord Grace of Canterbury is to be suspended 
 from all ecclesiastical function, retaining notwithstanding the living till 
 by a synodall assembly he be absolved of irregularity for this man- 
 slaughter. M r Thomas Murray confined by the King's commands to 
 his house no man knows either his or Sir Robert Naunton's release. 
 My M r Hopton returned, but to take his farewell of Bath house. I 
 have no cause to despair of my turn coming next. S* Swithin being 
 now ended I shall heartily wish for fair weather. The Emperor's army 
 did never good after Bucquoy's death : and of late they were surprised 
 in a place of disadvantage by Beth. G. M r Reade is on the mend. 
 On Bartholomew Eve he rode into Smithfield to see the fair ; he now 
 dines and sups in the buttery with M r Grevill whom my Lord will not 
 allow at any time to sit at his table. 
 
 1621, September 2, Foreign News Letter. Spinola is marched towards 
 Julich. The Prince of Orange with the States army of 30,000 lies a 
 mile from the enemy near Emerich. The King of Bohemia is in 
 Emerich and rides every day into the army. The Prince of Transylvania 
 hath besieged Presburg. The King of Sweden hath besieged Riga. 
 
 1621, September 22. Loudon. John Dawson to John Coke. 
 
 On Wednesday last I spake with M c Burlamachi who promised to 
 write and hoped to send you good news. Here is not certain news of 
 my Lord of Doncaster what he hath done. He was at Moisach where he 
 lay all the time of his sickness. Within these three days here came into 
 the Downs the Royal James from the East Indies well laden being 
 900 or a thousand of tons two more ships be coming from Surat one of 
 them bringing great store of silk by the Persian trade. This day is 
 appointed for launching one of your ships God send her good luck and 
 that she may be ever victorious against her enemies. My Lord came 
 from the Court at Theobalds on Sunday last he was seat for again and 
 went on Tuesday the King seems to be well pleased with what is done 
 about the park to-morrow my Lord goes to Hampton Court. The town 
 of Vienna is said to be in great danger of famine, their enemies on all 
 sides. 
 
 1621, September 24. Hampton Court. Fulke Grevyll Lord Brooke 
 to John Coke, Esquire, at his house at Hall Court near Ledbury. 
 
 M r Coke, I am commanded by my Lord of Buckingham to send for yon 
 to be here at the furthest the first week of the next Term, at which 
 time he assures me without further expectation you shall see an issue of 
 your hopes. I pray you therefore fail not yourself but be here by the 
 time appointed, and be confident you have and shall find me your constant 
 loving friend. 
 
 1621, October 20. Bartlett's Court. R. Willis to John Coke, Esquire. 
 
 I presume you cannot but take notice of my Lord's (Lord Brooke) 
 displeasure towards me by occasion of my petitioning his Honour's 
 favour and goodwill for my departure from his service. The truth is 
 upon serious consultation between my wife and myself concerning our 
 estate, finding how impossible it was for us to maintain our great charge 
 in the course I was in we resolved of a change. I do humbly beseech 
 you for my poor wife and children's sake to be my mediator to his Lord- 
 ship that I may have the comfort of his Lordship's favour in this retiring 
 of myself to mine own liberty & occasions, though he please not yet to 
 U 24963. H
 
 114 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS.; grant me his honourable recommendation to some other place, as I hope, 
 in his own good time his Lordship will be moved to do. 
 
 1621, October 20. Francis Coke. No address. Indorsed by J. 
 Coke " Brother Francis from Trusley." 
 
 Good Brother, Dolores leves loquuntur ingentes stupent. The great 
 loss we have of a brother, a loving brother, and a beloved brother, have 
 thus long been without complaint betwixt us through amazement of so 
 great grief, but now am I forced to break silence herein taking comfort 
 that without doubt he is with God, and we shall in God's good time go 
 to him ; he cannot come to us. He is past the cares of this world and 
 we are left here to be tossed in this troublesome sea which to me hath 
 been always stormy and tempestuous, so as had not God by His good 
 means (whereof you and he were chief) assisted me I had doubtless 
 been swallowed up and the waves had gone over my soul. Now am I 
 deprived of him ; but you remain. . . . I hope my Lord of will 
 
 not suffer me to be Sheriff. ... I pray you take occasion when your 
 leisure will serve to see my daughter who I hear is now at Hatton 
 House with her Lady, it will greatly comfort her. Let me entreat you 
 in the behalf of my old and faithful friend M r Lowe if it lie in your 
 power to do him pleasure. 
 
 1621, November 8. Indorsed by J. Coke " Copy of the King's 
 grant to me of 300/. per annum in the Navy." 
 
 " Right trusty and well beloved Councillors and trusty and well 
 beloved we greet you well. Being fully satisfied in the good services 
 done unto us in the several Commissions for our marine causes and for 
 the office of Our Ordnance by John Coke Esquire one of your company, 
 and understanding that he was called to the said services by the Lords 
 of our Council and hath long attended the same far remote from his 
 family and to his great charge, We are therefore graciously pleased 
 both to take into our princely consideration a fit reward for him, and in 
 the meantime for his travel and charges to give him the like allowance 
 and in like manner as are made by you according to Our Commission 
 to our trusty and well beloved William Burrell Esquire. These are 
 therefore to will and require you to pay or cause to be paid by the 
 Treasurer of our Navy to him the said John Coke all the said allowances 
 from the time of his first calling to these services, and during the con- 
 tinuance of our Commission for our marine causes, And for your so 
 doing this shall be our sufficient warrant for you and our said Treasurer, 
 and also for all our Auditors and other officers for allowance thereof 
 upon our said Treasurer's accounts. Given at our Court at Theobalds 
 this 8 th of November 1621." 
 
 1621, December 8. Derby House. Henry de Vere, Earl of Oxford 
 (Oxenford). 
 
 Commission to Sir F. Steward, Captain of the Nonsuch, to act as Vice 
 Admiral under the Earl as Admiral of His Majesty's Fleet now ready 
 to put to sea. 
 
 1621, , . Draft by John Coke of a letter from the 
 
 Commissioners of the Navy to the Lord Admiral. Concerning the 
 defects of the " Prince." 
 
 Her weakness is so great that all we can do unto her at this time 
 with above 500/. charge will but make her ride afloat and be able to go 
 to sea upon our own coast rather for show than for service, and that to 
 make her a strong and perfect ship will require at least 6,000/. charge 
 and time till monies and fit provisions may be had. This we write to 
 your Honour with grief and some just indignation, seeing a ship which
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIFTS COMMISSION. 115 
 
 so lately cost His Majesty near 20,000/. and was boasted to be of force Coke M88. 
 to fight for a kingdom so suddenly perish, and that no other reasons are 
 given thereof but her first building of old red and decaying timber and 
 that fallen in the sap, and her double planking with green and unseasoned 
 stuff, wherein the improvidence of the officers and unfaithfulness of the 
 workmen cannot be excused, such faults tending to the dishonouring and 
 disarming of the state cannot with duty be either coloured or concealed. 
 
 1621. Notes in writing of J. Coke relating to prizes taken in 
 expedition to Algiers. Sir R. Mansel Sir H. Palmer redemption of 
 Jews Duppa left at Cadiz. 
 
 1621. Draft by J. Coke of a letter from the Commissioners of 
 the Navy to the Lord Admiral. Farther on the bills of Signor Im- 
 periales. Sir Robert Mansel had imprested to him 3,000/. more than 
 any other commander. 
 
 The above is endorsed on the following letter. 
 
 July 24. Deptford. W. Burrell to John Coke. 
 
 Good Sir, I am bold to write these few lines unto you to entreat you 
 to speak to M r Reed a gentleman unknown to me, who I do understand 
 is very inward with the Provost of Eton, to desire his favour and 
 furtherance of the countenance of his kind favour to my son Samuel at 
 Eton, who as I am informed hath promised to Doctor Collins, the 
 Provost of the King's College of Cambridge, that my son Samuel should 
 have the first place to Cambridge in this election, for which kindness I 
 roust rest much engaged unto them and do desire to show myself 
 thankful in what I may, and so with remembrance of my love and 
 thankfulness for your good respect of me I rest W. BurrelL 
 
 Sir, Since the writing of this my letter I received a letter from 
 Nicholas Lett, merchant, that one .John Freeman, whom I have agreed 
 withal for the setting up of the stannig (standard ?) at Theobalds and 
 for doing of all the rest of the business there that appertained! to the 
 carpenter's work, is charged by a troll that is now taken in to Bridewell 
 that he hath lain with her, and to that end they desire to have him 
 there to punish him ; which if he be troubled till this business be done 
 at Theobalds we shall not be able to satisfy the King's desire therein 
 according to my Lord's order within convenient time, for he only that 
 hath framed all the work must of necessity set it up. I beseech you to 
 write two words to M r Lett and the Master of Bridewell that by any 
 means they forbear them till the service be over for he must go with 
 me on Friday to Theobalds or else I am at a stand. W. Burrell. 
 
 1621. To the Earl of Pembroke, Controller of His Majesty's House- 
 hold, the humble petition of Daniel Gorsuch, merchant, trading into 
 the east parts through the Sound of Denmark, as creditor of Robert 
 Crosse. 
 
 June 18, referred to John Coke and Sir W m Cockin. " Pembroke." 
 
 1621. Account of what the Admiral Sir Robert Mansel is to make 
 good to His Majesty. In rials of eight received by him for cochineal 
 and 2 pipes of tobacco sold at Alicant sashes for turbans, dyed 
 calicoes 25 slaves sold at 20 pounds apiece the ransom of o Jews of 
 Tetuau left at Gibraltar for 1,000 pieces of eight, and 5 Jews landed 
 in Cadiz for knives, razors, needles and spectacles. Total 3,692/. 5*. 
 
 1621. Draft by J. Coke of a Report of the Commissioners of the 
 Navy on Bills of Signor Imperiales for the expedition to Alicante and 
 Algiers. 
 
 (1621 ?) Notes by J. Coke. Indorsed by him " Sir Robert Mansel's 
 accounts compared with Capt" Love's Notes." 
 
 u 2
 
 116 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 The state of Sir Robert Mansel's accounts for the three prizes taken 
 at Algiers. 
 
 The state of Captain Love's accounts for the voyage to Algiers. 
 
 J. Coke to the Marquis of Buckingham. (Draft.) 
 
 The accounts of pirates goods are sent unto you by this bearer. And 
 now I have no occasion of attendance. I would have your favour in 
 procuring the King's hand to the bill for ray fee. Some here have 
 already said to my disadvantage that I am a Master of Requests in 
 ordinary without fee, which no man ever was before. 
 
 (1621?) Indorsed by J. Coke "Copy of a Declaration from 
 His Majesty to the Council of War," as to payments for a fleet of 
 twelve ships at sea out of a subsidy appointed by statute to that use. 
 The Anne Royal, S f George, S ( Andrew, Swiftsure, Rainbow, Van- 
 guard, Couvertine, Bonadventure, Antelope, Speedwell, and Adventure. 
 
 1621-2, January 23. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to John Coke, Esquire. 
 
 Good Brother, I received your last letters touching our brother 
 Thomas and I never had more comfort in any thing than that he died a 
 true Christian. I thank God with all my heart and soul therefor, for it 
 is better to nis than great riches, the rather because he was traduced by 
 some no mean persons to have been otherwise, but God be thanked & I 
 thank you for your assurance thereof to me. . . . My cousin hath ac- 
 quainted me with D r Barlow's offer to my daughter Susan. I have 
 told my cousin William Woodcock my whole mind to whom I pray you 
 give credit in this matter. Her portion will be 600/. ... I wish with 
 all my heart it were finished. I love clergymen both for my uncle's 
 sake and brother's sake and sister Carey's sake, and for my son Leigh 
 and son Francis Coke. Good brother, forward it with what conveniency 
 you can. 
 
 162i, February 16. Whitehall. Fulke Grevyll Lord Brooke to 
 John Coke at Hale Court in the parish of Much Marcle. 
 
 I understood yesterday by my Lord Treasurer that your fellow com- 
 missioners complain to him of your absence and neglect of the Navy 
 business, and they murmur the more because you have an allowance 
 and they none. Sir Edmond Lucie told me of a convenient house that 
 Auditor Tuck hath now to let at Wormley two miles nearer to London 
 than Broxbourne is. If you have any affection to such a thing you may 
 view it when you come. 
 
 162-*, February 15. London. Sir Robert Pye to John Coke at his 
 house at Marcle. 
 
 Since your departure here hath been a new world. As I told you I 
 Avas once at a very sharp bickering the smoke whereof doth yet remain, 
 very lately it brake forth and is now like to be heard by His Majesty. 
 I could wish you here for it is thought very much that you should have 
 a hundred and 300/. per annum, and now leave the business, I pray 
 you send some word when you will come that I may make answer for 
 you upon any occasion. The Spanish business doth proceed speedily 
 as I perceive by Commissions preparing. 
 
 .622, April 1. Mr. Browne's offer to Mr. Sack vile Crow. Propo- 
 sition submitted to the Commissioners touching Iron Ordnance. 
 
 1622, April 10. Draft by J. Coke of a letter from the Commis- 
 sioners of the Navy to the Lord Admiral. 
 
 Our fear and danger cometh by extraordinary services, which have 
 been so pressed that for their expedition we have been forced to dis-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 117 
 
 burse 3,000/. out of our ordinary moneys. If we cannot receive our Cc>XE MS9 
 
 extraordinary supplies allowed by the King, we shall be driven to our 
 
 great grief and discouragement, first, to discharge our workmen ; 
 
 secondly, to forbear to make provisions ; thirdly, to suffer all the ships 
 
 which served at Algiers to lie weather-beaten and unserviceable as they 
 
 came home ; and lastly, to induce the clamour and perhaps the mutiny 
 
 of those mariners which are daily discharged from the seas and wanting 
 
 their pay will dishonour the service and cause it to be abandoned in the 
 
 times of most need. 
 
 1622, April 10. Draft by J. Coke of a letter from the Commis- 
 sioners of the Navy to the Lord Treasurer. 
 
 Having often acquainted your Lordship with our wants, now we are 
 forced to acquaint you with our fears. The charge laid upon us con- 
 cerneth the honour and safety of a kingdom. We have thought fit to 
 acquaint you with the letter we have written to the Lord Admiral. 
 Direct us so as our faithful intentions and services may be no prejudice 
 unto us, nor cast us under the censure of the world. 
 
 1622, April 23, Hall Court. Peter Mease to John Coke at Brook 
 House in Holborn. 
 
 Good Sir, When I fully expected your own presence I received un- 
 expected letters such as could never be expected. I presumed as 
 much upon your love as you upon my discretion that I did not think my 
 words should be distorted from my meaning to your purpose (if it were 
 your purpose). I perceive that you perceive not my resolution. My 
 full intent (if it please God to second it) is the study of divinity. You 
 may remember that I always complained of the want of books. Your 
 opinion was that a few books might perfect a Divine. This was the 
 difference between your and my genius. As for myself as I was alway 
 and am willing to shew myself thankful to you for your expenses at my 
 commencement and since, so I was ever since and am unwilling to stay 
 in that place where there is such penury of books and good preaching as 
 neither by hearing or reading I may better my understanding with that 
 necessary expedition which my age, degree, and estate, do urge. Which 
 things being joined together may make it appear unto you, that I did 
 and do stay here (as the poet speaketh) e<uv aencvTi ye Ovum. My 
 meaning was both good and honest and (if it had been so taken) free 
 both from choler and ungratitude no whit deserving your marvel. 
 Therefore I do not a little marvel that you are so hasty, neglecting me and 
 my diligence to provide a tutor. Rut if it be (as I hope it is) one to 
 fetch them to Cambridge, 1 shall be very glad, otherwise I shall scarce 
 think you deal well with me. But it shall be well with me if you think 
 it more commodious for them; only this let me admonish you, that 
 whereas your children have learned on my books this two year and more, 
 I shall not leave them behind me, you are therefore withal to provide 
 them such books as your and the discretion of a provided tutor shall 
 think fit. I wish I were provided of a place in Cambridge ; you and 
 your children should then perceive that my love was never founded 
 upon the sandy grounds of By respects, which the blast of a miscon- 
 strued sentence should overthrow : but such is my case now that I am 
 provided neither in London nor Cambridge, which you might moro 
 easily have perceived than misconceived my resolution. Therefore as it 
 cannot be inconvenient for me to stay till Midsummer so shall it be in 
 no wise displeasing, fjnan y.tv o 0<k t{ ayav npdviua.t;. The scholars have 
 that privilege over you rich men that we can be liberal without loss. 
 The more we impart to others we have,never the less. Therefore I will
 
 118 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 till then continue my constant course. I hope I need not admonish you 
 
 in the meantime, avdpa. So* xpeuv Toy ayaOov wpcuro-ovTa. peyaXa. tovi; icovqv$ 
 lieBievat. AKka kcci Befiaiov etva* Tore [xaXtcrra. tok; (piXotq wcfyeXetv [xaXia-r 
 
 ovvutos o-t*v ivrw^uv. Reliquam epistolam meo more claudam. Equidem 
 dignissime vir ut mihi ingenua indoles a Deo immortali ab ipsa natura 
 insita (?) fuit : ita earn hactenus continuis laboribus (te partim conscio) 
 excolui. Jam vero mihi videor non minimos pro aetate progressus 
 fecisse, cumque animus totus in Theologiam rapi vellet, desuut, proh 
 dolor ! libri. Quod et per te jam exutus in tali loco collocarer ubi 
 librorura copia suppeteret, redderes me sane tibi devinctissimo, de- 
 vinctiorem, .... Pergat Deus onmes meos conatus sancto suo Spiritu 
 dirigere ut tandem cedant in ejus gloriam et aliquod Ecclesiae Christianae 
 monumentum. Faxit idem ut tu valeas vale. Rescribe quaeso ut inde 
 sciam quatenus in te confidam. 
 
 1622, May 17. Brook House. John Coke "to my own loving 
 wife Mistress Marie Coke at Hall Court in the parish of Much Marcle, 
 with speed." 
 
 Dear Wife, Though I am not guilty to myself of any neglect of my 
 health yet your kind care of me shall make me regard it the more for 
 your sake. And for the journey you mention the motion was 
 made and let fall before my coming up, so as I never came to shew 
 willingness or unwillingness thereunto, and you may persuade yourself 
 that my wandering humours are now spent. I am sorry for the loss of 
 our good neighbour Mr. Prior, and wish comfort to his widow in whose 
 behalf you write, and had such sense of her estate that presently after 
 the reading of your letter I went to Mr. Attorney of the Wards, and 
 moved him that the young gentleman's wardship might not be disposed 
 to any but to his mother who hath most right unto it. Whereof 
 accordingly he gave me assurance, and if you had sent me her proper 
 name in your letter I had presently despatched this business for her. 
 And if I can here learn either by John Prior or any other in what name 
 to make petition, I will take care for her to put it past danger. But she 
 must send her name, and give directions for the charge of the passing as 
 soon as may be, for if her petition be not presented within a month after 
 the day of the death of her husband another may get the wardship from 
 her. If she direct her Attorney or Solicitor to me I will give him the 
 best help I can, and thereof let Richard Mayo assure her from me, by 
 whom you may presently give her notice of this much. This week I 
 received a letter from Sir Francis Coke from Trusley, wherein he 
 assureth me that he hath bought me two oxen, and that he hath sent 
 them to my house. Besides my cousin Woodcock is returned thence, 
 and telleth me as much, so, as I trust, by this time you have received 
 them. This week coming I expect your father, and shall be most glad 
 to accompany him down again. I writ unto you the last week by the 
 carrier of Tewkesbury, and hope you have received it, though you men- 
 tion it not. I writ also to my father concerning our sister Marie and 
 inclosed yours in it. After this I shall desire rather to come than to 
 write. In the meantime my affection is with you, and my prayers to God 
 for you, to whose gracious favour I commend you and our children, and 
 so rest your true loving husband. 
 
 1622, July 25. Mannheim. Sir Horace Vere, General of the British 
 Forces in the Palatinate. 
 
 Copy Certificate that Sir Adrian de Megant, knight, together with his 
 regiment of about 570 horse, had promise of pay from March 10 last, 
 and, leaving part of his troops in Frankendale and Mannheim, had, with
 
 HISTOBICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 119 
 
 the rest, joined the army of the Count Mansfeld with the approbation of Coke mss. 
 Sir H. Vere, for want of forage and other necessaries. 
 
 1622, July 30. J. Coke to the Marquis of Buckingham, Lord High 
 Admiral of England. (Draft.) 
 
 I hope this letter shall come to no eyes but your own. The proposi- 
 tion of the Lord Deputy of Ireland to the Marquis is to ingross and 
 monopolise all the pipe staves or vessel stuff of that kingdom with a 
 stock of 11,000/. or 12,000/. of which the Marquis is to have 1,000/. 
 My objections are these : First, the stock will be too little ; Secondly, 
 men of ability will not join in partnership with your Lordships, for 
 merchants are jealous to hazard their goods with their betters, and to 
 pay where they must pray; Thirdly, the profit will not answer 
 the expectancy for the many trusts and many hands will eat up all the 
 gains. Lastly, your share is to be but a twelfth part, yet your name 
 and your credit must support the whole adventure and bear the 
 envy of all miscarriages. I recommend licences for dealing in this 
 commodity and customs for its importation, that the great devastation of 
 this commodity may be better restrained, and it be imparted to none but 
 the friends of the State. I am now to proceed in a long journey for the 
 compositions for purveyance and carriage, wherein as in some shires we 
 have already settled his Majesty's revenue so we hope to do it in the 
 rest. 
 
 1622, August 14. Latin process on claim of Peter Richaut for his 
 goods in the " St. Peter." 
 
 1622, August 16. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to John Coke at 
 Leicester. 
 
 A horse to be sent to Warwick. Sir H. Leeche will not part with 
 Lady Boothe under 1,000/., if you might have it for 900/. it would not 
 be an ill bargain. I pray you send me word how my Lord of Arundel 
 doth since his bruise by fall from his carriage. I and my wife salute 
 you. 
 
 1622, August 16. Sir Francis Coke to John Coke, Esquire, at Leicester. 
 
 Asking on the part of the Justices of the Peace (of Derbyshire) to be 
 certified for what things, and how far Coke has commission to compound 
 for purveyance, and in what manner the agreement must be assured, and 
 to have a sight of a copy of the Commission. 
 
 1622, September 10. Barracote. Ralph Bonyngton to William 
 Woodcock, Grocer, at the sign of the Maiden Head, in St. Laurence 
 Lane, London, near the Church. 
 
 Give me leave to entreat you and your accomplices to a more due and 
 indifferent consideration of the passages betwixt yourselves and me, for 
 since I passed my whole estate into your hands methinks you have as it 
 were trodden me under your feet in holding your power of it, and with- 
 holding your monies wherewith I should have freed and satisfied others 
 my worthy good sureties and creditors. Do not take from me all you 
 have taken, nor all you would take, but take one thousand pieces, eleven 
 hundred pounds, and no more, and so much without any more will not 
 only be fair but full recompense and satisfaction for all I or any of mine 
 have taken of all or any of you all in all manner of principal, interest, 
 and all reasonable charges in every Court and office. 
 
 1622, September 18. Chatham. Henry Goddard to John Coke. 
 Complains against Mr. Bun-ell's hard carriage towards him. Desires 
 a warrant for his employment denied him by Mr. Burrell.
 
 120 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1622, September 26. Mr. Spruser's and Mr. Acworth's Note for 
 Deals. 
 
 1623, September 29. St. John's in London. Mrs. Marie Coke to 
 John Coke. 
 
 Dear Husband, 1 have thought fit to send Peter to you again to 
 acquaint you how it stands about setting this house that you may have 
 time to consider what answer to give, and not be pressed on a sudden. 
 The man that first desired to take the house came hither, and desired 
 that he might bring the party that would take it to view the house, we 
 yielded that he should see it, so on Friday he brought the old 
 Lady Dormer, my old Lord Dormer's widow, to view the house. She 
 told your man Richard that she liked it well, and would give your 
 price for it, and buy your coal and beer, and those things that you would 
 part with, and would come to it by Allhallowtide, or a week before if 
 she could. She is a papist, but is well able to pay the rent Richard 
 saith. Now, since on Saturday my Lord Denny sent a man hither to 
 see the house, and to inquire if it would be set. He did see some of the 
 rooms, and came again this forenoon to tell us that my Lord Denny and 
 his Lady desire to see the house to-morrow, when as they come to dine 
 with the Earl of Exeter who is my Lady's brother. Richard told them 
 that they might. He asked Richard why you had not as good let him 
 have it as my Lady Dormer. He said also that his Lord would desire 
 to have some lodgings in it by the beginning of the term. After he was 
 gone Mr. Berrington came to Richard, and told him that he would 
 advise yet better whether my Lord Denny should have it. They all 
 desire to have your answer as soon as may be whether they shall take it 
 or not, and I acquaint you with it as soon as I can. I sent Richard to 
 Mr. Boswell, but he was not in town, nor his Lord neither. I thank 
 God the children are all well, but are apt to catch the cough this cold 
 weather. I praise God I do endure though I drive out the time wearily. 
 
 1622, October 3. Brook House. Henry Vyner to John Coke, 
 Hale Court. 
 
 The last week I sent a footman of purpose with a letter from my 
 Lord to hasten your coming up. My Lord Mandevill hath given up 
 his Treasurer's place and my Lord Cranfield hath that staff. Sir R. 
 Weston is to succeed my Lord in the Chancellor and Under Treasurer's 
 office. The Master of the Rolls is in possibility to have that also. Now 
 therefore you shall quickly see what reward is intended for all your 
 good service. The first messenger was sent by commandment from my 
 Lord Admiral. 
 
 (1622 ?) October 4. The Mews. James Lord Hay to Mr. Coke, one 
 of the Masters of Requests to his Majesty, at his lodging. 
 
 Sir, I have directed the bearer hereof to you. That business I 
 recommended to you concerning one Mepham a tanner concerneth this 
 man, let me entreat you to use him well for my sake, and for this and 
 all your former courtesies I will ever acknowledge to remain your 
 affectionate to serve you. 
 
 On the above is indorsed a draft by J. Coke of a letter from him to 
 "His Grace" respecting the sale of prize vessels. 
 
 1622, October 12. London. " Copy of a letter sent to Lord Marquis 
 Buckingham and of another not sent, both concerning his Lordship's 
 propositions to myself." (Endorsement by J. Coke.) 
 
 Right Honourable your Lordship's noble favours towards me I under- 
 stand by my Lord Brooke and acknowledge your goodness with all 
 thankfulness of heart, though my misfortune maketh me incapable
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 121 
 
 thereof by being unable in that course to do you that service I desire, Coke MSS. 
 
 and that for reasons full of humility and duty a worthy 
 
 Clerk of the Council is in great extremity if your lordship think 
 
 me worthy of the Mastership of Requests which is now in your hands, 
 your honour shall both bind me and enable me to do his Majesty haply 
 amongst importunate suitors some service and ease : and withal to 
 serve your honour in the Navy, the Ordnance, and all your own occa- 
 sions to your full content and that without charge. 
 
 (In the letter not sent he wrote.) 
 
 Howsoever I am valued my descent is not base. I was not bred in 
 servile or illiberal trades, the University was my nurse, I have travelled 
 many countries, where I saw peace and war. I am acquainted with 
 books, and no stranger to the courts and affairs of the world. And 
 though those know who know me best that I ever affected a private 
 course of life, yet I never refused any service whatsoever to give God, 
 my prince, and my country a good account of my time ; nor ever made 
 the public a step to private emh, nor set profit or honour in the first 
 place of my heart, as the common fashion is. My Lord Brooke now 
 telleth me that you require me forthwith to fetch up my family, that 
 I shall have his Majesty's fee for my service in the Navy continued to me, 
 and secure from your Lordship 200/. a year, with many other privileges 
 of your favour. My address was to none but to yourself. Be pleased 
 to consider whether in four years wherein without allowance I followed 
 the King's service and yours I ever troubled with proposition for myself, 
 and rested not quietly first upon your own noble offers of advancement 
 and then on that royal promise at Wanstead of reward, whereof his 
 Majesty required the Prince and yourself to be remembrancers on his 
 part and witnesses on mine. 
 
 1622, October 16. John Coke to Mrs. Mary Coke, at Hall Court 
 in the parish of Much Marcle. 
 
 . ... I entreat you very heartily to wean your child out of hand. 
 If the cares of our family and my absence do cause the pain in your 
 side I doubt not (God willing) very speedily to give therein good con- 
 tent and in the meantime some reasonable satisfaction and comfort by a 
 true relation and account of my proceedings since I came from you 
 . . . I went with the rest of our Commission to Hampton Court 
 . I for my particular drew an account in writing and therein 
 gave advice what I thought necessary to be done for the expedition of 
 the service. This I sent by an honourable person to the King, and 
 his Majesty was so well satisfied with it that he seut the same lord to 
 the Lord Treasurer and Lord Steward with commandment unto them to 
 follow those directions. Hereupon and for other occasions too long to 
 repeat both his Majesty and the Lord Admiral have found it requisite to 
 continue my employment. (States particulars of transaction with the 
 Marquis of Buckingham.) With God's blessing we shall have means 
 to live together here or in the country where we think fit, and in a 
 better fashion than we have done heretofore or haply you expect and 
 shall be also able to settle our children at the University, and you shall 
 be freed from those drudgeries and domestical cares which now take 
 up your time against my will, and which disquiet your mind. . . 
 You shall do well to thrash out and sell your wheat and put as many 
 of your oxen and kine to feeding as you may conveniently and buy no 
 more stuff or stock : also make haste to work up your hemp and flax : 
 but publish not your intent.
 
 122 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1622, October 22. Lenox, E. Worcester, W. Grandison, G. Carew ? 
 Geo. Calvert, T. Edmondes. The Lords of the Council to the Vice- 
 Admiral of Devon and officers of the port of Plymouth. 
 
 Order to make stay of a Spanish ship brought in by Eochellers and 
 keep safely till legally demanded. 
 
 1622, October 27. Hinchingbroke. George Villiers, Marquis of 
 Buckingham, to Mr. John Coke, one of His Majesty's Commissioners 
 for the Navy. 
 
 I must desire you to have a little patience and not to think I am 
 forgetful of you that I have not yet given you an account of your 
 business, the reason of which delay is only my desire so to contrive 
 your satisfaction that it may be without the prejudice of others which 
 I know will be most pleasing to you and in speed it shall not come 
 short of the other way. In the meantime I rest your very loving 
 friend. 
 
 1622, October 29. Plymouth. James Bagg to John Coke, Esquire, 
 one of the Commissioners for His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Understanding His Majesty's purpose to set forth new forces by sea 
 I put you in mind of my readiness to do you and the rest of the 
 Commissioners any service in these parts that you may be pleased to 
 command, 
 
 [Below. Draft by J. Coke of Letters Patent to the President of 
 the Marches of Wales, confirming to the Lord Brooke the fees for oaths 
 in the Court of the Marches, before granted by Letters Patent, but 
 unduly taken by the Justices]. 
 
 1622, October 30. Copy of a letter sent to the Lord Marquis 
 Buckingham, in answer of his dated 27th October. 
 
 Your better judgment expressed in such a character of ingenuity and 
 honour must satisfy any man that hath a spark of good nature or 
 virtue in him. 
 
 I rejoice much in a present occasion offered by two accounts for the 
 prizes taken at Algiers which 1 have lately gotten into my hands and 
 find in them a just and clear ground of recovering for your Lordship 
 above 3,000/. 
 
 1622, November 18. London. John Coke to his wife Mistress 
 Marie Coke at Hall Court. 
 
 This bearer gave me little satisfaction by his verbal report that he 
 left you well in comparison of that I should hare received by a 
 letter from you. For though he telleth me that you have written by 
 Wm. Cam, yet I have not received it, only I hope the best. Now for 
 myself, I stand thus : on Tuesday last I went towards Newmarket, 
 where I have now a real experience of my Lord Marquis's favour, by 
 whose means his Majesty hath bestowed on me a place of good account 
 in his service, and the manner of giving doth also much amplify the 
 gift. This evening I came back to this city, and having brought with 
 me a warrant for the taking of my oath before the Lords of the Council, 
 and for drawing my letters patents I must necessarily attend here this 
 week for the despatch thereof. Besides I was commanded a service by 
 the King himself, and I have two or three businesses for the Lord 
 Marquis, and must also seek a house in some convenient place for our 
 speedy settlling here, and all this I hope to despatch with such speed 
 that God willing I mean to be with you some time the next week. In 
 the meantime, consider I pray you how to sell away and set our provi- 
 sions and grounds, and in my father's absence confer with my mother
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 123 
 
 and Mr. Boughton if by them you can hear of a good tenant for all or 
 for part. 
 
 [Subjoined by Mistress Marie Coke.] 
 
 Good father, this letter came when Robin Mayo came from London ; 
 now by Mr. Hopton's letter and this put together you may perceive how 
 matters go. But I could wish if it might be that we might not our- 
 selves publish these matters till he come home himself, for I doubt it 
 will put unsettledness in the heads of our servants. I did not see Mr. 
 Boughton since, neither told anybody of it as yet. 
 
 1622, November 21. Sir Francis Goston to John Coke, Esq., one of 
 the Masters of the Requests. 
 
 I rejoice with you at this your preferment. I recommend to your 
 service Mr. Thekar [Thacker] known to Lord Brooke by some employ- 
 ments in his Majesty's service. 
 
 1622. November 22. Christ College, Cambridge. George Coke 
 (brother) to John Coke at Bath House in Holborn. 
 
 Dr. Laud was our Archdeacon for Hertfordshire, it is a fit place for 
 me, if you so like and think fit to make means for it. It would be a 
 place of great credit though not of much gain, being of about fifty 
 pounds per annum. (The letter is also signed by " your sister Dorothy 
 Carey "). 
 
 1622, November 25. Newmarket. Sir Ralph Freeman to John 
 Coke, Master of Requests, at the Lord Brooke's house in Holborn. 
 
 I pray God give you joy. It belongeth to you to wait this ensuing 
 month of December. Sir Sidney Montague is to begin in January, 
 and so the rest according to seniority. If your occasions will not permit 
 you to come down, you had best speak to Sir Edward Fowell to wait 
 for you. I shall be willing to stay a week longer for you. 
 
 1622, November. Ro. Vernon, H. Cocke, Ralphe Weldon, Ro. 
 Banastre, Mar. Darel, Rich. Coxe. A testimonial to George Beards- 
 worth's sufficiency to be admitted to attend on the Master of the 
 Ceremonies. 
 
 1622, December 1. Newmarket. John Packer to John Coke at 
 Sir Robert Pye's house in Westminster. 
 
 Mr. Beecher hath given this stop to the dispatch of your business. 
 
 Upon the receipt of your last letter, 1 spake again to my Lord who 
 answered it should not stay long. And the same day he was earnest 
 about the Provost's place, who is gone away this morning with his dis- 
 mission. 
 
 1622, December 8. Newmarket. John Packer to John Coke at 
 Sir Robert Pye's house. 
 
 Now at the last my Lord hath removed all impediment and gotten 
 your bill signed. The blank i have filled up by his Majesty's allowance 
 and in his presence according to your desire, and so wishing you much 
 joy, I rest, &c. 
 
 (Endorsed) " The bill for my fee sent." 
 
 1622, (no month). John Coke. Indorsed "To my wife from 
 London." No address. 
 
 I was so glad of your letter sent the last week by the carrier 
 that I willingly gave the deliverer a trifle reward. Yet should I not 
 be at quiet that you write that you have your health but in some 
 good measure and that you quickly find pain in your side alter meat if I 
 did not think it proceeded from that infirmity which a known time will 
 cure and which tendeth to more health and comfort, But whatsoever 
 be the cause I pray you be careful to cherish yourself with good diet, 
 
 Coke MSS.
 
 124 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION". 
 
 Coke mss. and to use some stirring and exercise and now and then to take the air 
 that you may be fitter for a journey when time shall require to remove 
 our family. As for Mr. Mease you shall not need to trouble yourself 
 for I have already spoken to my brother George to provide a tutor in 
 Cambridge for the two great boys, and purpose God willing to send them 
 shortly thither. And for Thomas I know how to provide for his 
 teaching here without troubling his master. For whom notwithstanding 
 I will be careful to provide a convenient settling if he will be ruled by 
 his friends. Your bugle hat band and collar are not forgotten. And if 
 corn bear so good price I hope you send good store to the market and 
 thrash out apace to deceive the rats, for the killing whereof take what 
 course you think fit. Since I was sworn Master of Requests I have had 
 continual business which I finished but yesterday and send it to-morrow 
 to the Court and must necessarily expect answer from thence before I 
 can take my journey towards you. Besides by reason of the King's 
 falling sick of the gout the bill for my fee is not yet returned which I 
 daily expect. Be confident that I use all possible means to procure my 
 dispatch, and that I desire nothing more than to come home. I am in 
 hand with a house that hath but little room and a great rent, it standeth 
 in good air and amongst good neighbours. I pray you be careful to 
 keep your company about you specially in the nights and that the doors 
 be safe kept and let Hugh Powis Jodge in the house, because I hear of 
 much hurt done. If Mr. Boughton come up shortly I pray you write 
 by him, and direct him to leave your letter with Mr. Vyner if I be not 
 in town. Samuel Hopton is chosen to be Steward to my Lord Marquis 
 and cometh presently up, by vshom you may also write if he send unto 
 you as he promised me he would. 
 
 1622, December 15. Hale Court. Mrs. Marie Coke to John Coke. 
 
 I received your letter by Mr. William Cam and do praise God for 
 your health and good prosperity, and I thank you for your kind 
 remembrance of me and your many kind letters, beseeching the Lord 
 to send you a safe and a prosperous journey and good company home 
 in His good time. Although we expect you shortly, yet I cannot 
 but satisfy your desire and mine own to write by so good a mes- 
 senger as Mr. Boughton that this may assure you that we are all in 
 good health thanks be to God. I have been better also of late than 
 I was, and hope to recover my strength. [ hope it will need not to 
 desire Hugh Powis to lodge in the house which hath ever seemed to be 
 much against his mind and his wife's who came running hither one 
 morning last year to look [for] him when he stayed but one night. And I 
 hope where be so many little children to cry in the night and so little 
 money, none will offer to rob us. I cannot get corn thrashed to send to 
 market except I send barley or peas. Till you bargain or set anything 
 yourself 1 see no means of setting anything. I have been at Preston 
 this day and told my father and mother what you wrote of the.^e things. 
 It hath pleased God to call my brother Thomas Powell to His mercy 
 out of this world, which though it cannot but be acknowledged that it is 
 God's mercy to him, yet this day being the day of his burial we cannot 
 but have a sense of death's separation. 
 
 1622, December 15. Hale. Peter Mease to John Coke at Brook 
 House, Holborn. 
 
 (Latin). Asks what Mr. Coke thinks he should do, after the depar- 
 ture of the sons, his pupils, to the University. Death of Thomas 
 Powell announced from Ludlow. 
 
 1622, December 18. Theobalds. Sir Edward Powell to John 
 Coke, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION, 125 
 
 My Lord Brooke had yesterday by word of mouth bespoken me to Coke MSS. 
 wait for you the next month, which I will duly perform until your 
 businesses will permit yourself to come and attend. 1 profess I take 
 much comfort of your loving brotherhood. I pray you remember me 
 unto my cousin, Mr. John Powell, your father-in-law. 
 
 1622, December 30. Marcle. John Kyrle to John Coke, Esq. 
 I congratulate your good fortunes. Offers the service of his son who 
 shall be content to serve in the meanest place. 
 
 1622, December 30. Hale Court. Answer of John Coke to John 
 Kyrle, Marcle. 
 
 I am not yet warm in my place. After I have waited a month or 
 two at the Court, I shall better understand how I shall do a real good 
 turn for my friend. 
 
 1622. John Coke. [No address.] 
 
 Dear wife, I thank you for your last letter sent by the carrier, and 
 praise God for your recovery, whereof if I had heard a confirmation 
 this week it would have contented me much. But I know you 
 expected rny coming home rather than a letter this time. And I both 
 purposed and hoped to have taken my journey presently after my return 
 from Theobalds as I writ in my last. But it so fell out that my Lord 
 Marquiss came thither so late that though I had access to him, yet the 
 other party who hath a promise of the place could not there be treated 
 with, and therefore of necessity we must both follow the Court the next 
 week to Newmarket. Thus my time is necessarily protracted, and I 
 doubt not but you will think it more reasonable for me to tarry a few- 
 days and put his Lordship to the performance of his engagement unto 
 me than to lose so fair a hope and advantage by abandoning the oppor- 
 tunity, and thereby to give both his Lordship and the King himself a 
 just exception against me. Of this be assured that so soon as I have 
 my answer either with performance or delay I will not tarry longer, but 
 make all possible speed to come to you. And I confess as I am now 
 encouraged J would gladly bring with me some news of comfort to 
 requite your patience by an assurance of a better condition hereafter 
 which by God's blessing is now in a very good way. 1 marvel I hear 
 nothing from your father nor brother John touching the escheatorship 
 which I still keep upon my hand for him, but if they signify not their 
 acceptance this next week I shall not possibly keep it any longer in 
 suspense. If I durst venture upon this carrier's safe delivery of my 
 letter, I could write such particulars of my business that yourself would 
 believe it to be in very good forwardness, and fit to be pursued whilst 
 opportunity serveth. 
 
 1622. Draft by J. Coke of his reply to Francis Coke. The 
 substance of our Commission is briefly this : His Majesty understandin<>- 
 the losses sustained in divers counties by insufficient undertakers and the 
 complaints made in Parliament against the abuses of purveyors and 
 cart-takers, the particulars to be compounded for are first, whatever 
 is already to be compounded for to be served in kind ; secondly, all othei 
 kinds of provisions for the household and stable not compounded for but 
 left at large to be taken by purveyors when occasion shall serve ; and 
 thirdly, all cart-taking and carriages for His Majesty's removes. The 
 rates for the first will not exceed what is already paid to your under- 
 takers, and for the second and third they will he so moderate that the 
 country shall find a great disproportion betwixt the ease and the charge ;
 
 126 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 or if you desire not that freedom it may be at your own choice to be left 
 therein still at large. Besides the composition will extend to free you 
 not only from all purveyance but also from pre-emption even when the 
 King shall come amongst you. For assurance you shall not only have 
 it by Articles indented, but also by Letters Patent under the Great Seal. 
 
 1622. London. Eleanor Willis (Cousin) to John Coke. 
 
 It may seem to you and my good Lord that he (her husband) hath 
 not done well now in leaving my Lord's service at this time. On 
 Michaelmas Day I was at a friend's house and one brought in word that 
 my Lord Cranfield should be Lord Treasurer and that for certain sure 
 John Suder should be made Chancellor of the Cheque. Without my 
 husband's knowledge myself and other friends of ours made earnest suit 
 to my Lord Cranfield for him : his answer to my friend was that for 
 their sakes and hearing that my husband was an honest man he would 
 accept of their offer so that he might have him with my Lord Brooke's 
 goodwill. If my Lord will be so merciful to us as but to give my 
 husband his good word we and all others may say he hath spent his 
 time well in serving so good a master. And then good cousin conceive 
 us by yourself that hath a great charge of children as well as we. I 
 pray you write to us two lines what hope we may have of getting my 
 Lord's good will. 
 
 1622. Mrs. Eleanor Willis to her cousin John Coke, Master of the 
 Bequests. 
 
 Asking a clerks place for John Collope, who has served Sir Francis 
 Groston for ten years, and hath married my Lady Goston's niece. He 
 would be content with ten pounds a year. 
 
 1622. Colonel Waldmanshausen to His Majesty the King. 
 
 Sa Majeste de la Grande Bretagne est tres humblement suppliee de 
 la part du Colonel Waldmanshausen. Le dit Colonel ayant ete pris au 
 service de sa Majeste par le General Vere le 10 de Mars 1622 avec un 
 Begiment qui fut mis en garnison dans Mannheim et Heidelberg et 
 quelque temps apres le 20 de Avril a la requisition du Boi de Boheme 
 sortit en campagne jusqu'au 29 Juin que tous rentrerent a Mannheim. 
 Qu'il plaise doncques a Sa Majeste donner ordre convenable pour le 
 reste de leur paye. 
 
 1622. Mr. Downing concerning decay of trade. The supposed 
 causes of our waste. 1. The great expense of foreign commo- 
 dities. 2. The wars in Christendom. 3. Piracy. 4. The Dearth. 5. 
 The hoarding up of money. 6. The want of exchange. 7. The height 
 of our money beyond sea. 
 
 The supposed remedies practised. The true cause of our waste. The 
 blocks that keep us from recovering and rising. 
 
 1622. Draft by John Coke of a Beport by the Commissioners 
 of the Navy to the Lord Admiral. 
 
 For the business of iron ordnance. As to the distribution to be made 
 betwixt Mr. Crow, who hath a patent to cast all for the merchant, and 
 Mr. Browne, who hath the office of gunfounder to cast all for the 
 King, to maintain the working of two furnaces at once, that they be not 
 permitted to combine together to the prejudice of the subject or the 
 State. 
 
 1622, . Henry Bulstrode. 
 
 Note concerning purveyance for hunting horses and hounds. By 
 virtue of a patent or commission under the King's own hand granted to 
 Sir Thomas Tyrringham authorizing him to take provisions for hunting
 
 HISTORICAL" MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 127 
 
 horses and hounds and at certain prices, divers, not having oats to serve Coke MSS. 
 iccording to the warrants to them directed, were summoned to appear 
 at Windsor before the Knight Marshal and both paid money for the 
 said oats they were so charged with, and also 6d. for the Knight 
 Marshal's man his fee. 
 
 (1622), about. A paper originally a part of a Draft in J. Coke's 
 writing, perhaps a Report by him on complaints of the charges for the 
 King's purveyance. 
 
 " The foresaid impediments may be removed by the two remedies 
 which follow : First by appointing the Lord Treasurer Lord 
 Steward and some other high commissioners to call before them those 
 officers of the Green Cloth and their purveyors which gave this late 
 offence to the farmers for their wheat and to the gentlemen for their 
 partridges, and if they find just cause either by an exemplary punish- 
 ment or otherwise as to their wisdom shall seem best to reassure the 
 people of those parts of the good intention of the State, Secondly, by 
 reducing the Falconers and Huntsmen to the reasonable allowances of 
 their predecessors." 
 
 On this is endorsed, in J. Coke's Avriting, a draft letter to the 
 Marquis of Buckingham, asking for a reward of his four years' service 
 by some office ; also rough notes by Coke on the accounts of Sir "R. 
 Mansel and Capt. Love. 
 
 1622. Endorsed by Coke, " 1622, Berkshire." Composition for 
 Purveyance. 
 
 " We met at Newbury Sir F. Knolles, Sir Richard Lovelace, Sir 
 Thom : Vachel, Sir Barker, Sir Rich : Harrison, Dr. Bowles, Mr. 
 
 Dunne, Mr. Clarke, Mr. Organ, Mr. Newbury a lawyer." Composition 
 to extend to hawks and hounds, &c &c. 
 
 1622. A paper indorsed by J. Coke " Hertfordshire." 
 
 A list of weights and numbers of wheat, veals, porks, lambs, bacon, 
 geese, capons, hens, pullets, chickens, hay, oats, litter, coals, with 
 values annexed total 1,085/., abated 85/. Wheat for the King's 
 mouth at the second price of the market. Other petty purveyance and 
 for all other provisions when the King is within the County. Wood, 
 carriages, 500/. Total composition 1,500/. 
 
 Sir Charles Morrison, Sir Richard Lucie, Sir Nicholas Hyde, Bart., 
 Sir Thomas Pope Blount, Sir Robert Chester, Sir John Luke, Mr. 
 Litton, Mr. Norton, and Mr. Willis, Compounders. 
 
 These gentlemen, though they alleged that they had not sufficient 
 power from the country, yet proceeded with us to treaty and to a sum 
 of 1,500/. which they were willing to yield unto if the hawks and 
 hounds might be included, but not otherwise; so it resteth upcn that 
 resolution : or otherwise to be proceeded in as the Lords shall direct. 
 
 1622-3, January 3. Biackfriars. Thomas Alured to John Coke, 
 Esquire, one of the Masters of Requests attending His Majesty. 
 
 Sir Ralph Freemjm does not allow Sir Edward Powell to wait this 
 month for you at Court. This day, walking with a Serjeant-at-Arms, 
 the ancient follower of any Master of Requests in Court, he told me of 
 several Masters that did always take the turn of those in whose place 
 they succeeded. If you have not resolved upon your house in St. 
 Martin's Lane, you may have your choice there and elsewhere at 
 indifferent rates, the two proclamations have so emptied the City and 
 suburbs. Mr. Hopton the first day he came to York House was 
 arrested with a fit of an ague when my Lord expressed a great deal of
 
 128 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. care and nobleness in sending his own doctor to minister unto him. 
 Sir Robert Pye did often visit and cheer him. 
 
 1622-3, January 13. London. Thomas Alured to J. Coke, Esq., one 
 of the Masters of Requests attending His Majesty. 
 
 Asks employment for W. Burgess : his father was an alderman of good 
 esteem in Hull, where myself was born. 
 
 1622-3, January 24. The Temple. John Verney to John Coke, 
 Esquire, one of the Masters of Requests. 
 
 Sends Mr. Lambard's treatise of all the Courts of Justice. In the 
 other book are the orders and directions for the Court of Chancery 
 published by the Lord Chancellor Bacon, making the world believe as 
 that he would be the uprightest judge, but indeed never followed 
 nor observed by him. Many of these touch on the power of the Seal of 
 Enghmd. All the rest are proper for your Court. I shall further attend 
 you when it please you with those two gentlemen I told you of, who know- 
 ing the now living practice in your Court, can best inform you of all the 
 disorders that do so much blemish your Court. 
 
 1622-3, January 28. Hereford Col. Stephen Boughton to John 
 Coke, Esquire, one of the Masters of Requests. 
 
 Mr. Cox, of Castle Ditch, was to confer with your father Mr. Powell, 
 about the purchase of Fawlay ; except Mr. Powell come nearer the 
 matter than he yet maketh show he will, he is out of hope to deal with 
 you. Something must be left in surplusage above his debts for his after 
 maintenance. I am persuaded if you let this opportunity slip you will 
 hardly happen upon the like purchase again in these parts. It may be 
 supposed that the present prices of corn and cattle will be a cause of 
 ra ; sing the rates in purchasing. I beseech you remember my suit for the 
 poor widow with which I acquainted you according to the equity of her 
 cause when it shall come before you. Mrs. Coke and all yours, God 
 be blessed, I found in perfect health. 
 
 1622-3, January 28. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to John Coke. 
 I pray to him from whom all good and perfect gifts descend, even the 
 father of lights, to give you comfort and true joy in your place wherein I 
 learn (by letters from my Lord the Bishop of Exeter and my sister) that 
 you are now settled. 
 
 Particulars of the executorship and trust under the will of Sir John 
 Harpur and the wardship of his son John's son, who is his heir male, but 
 not his heir general, for they were his eldest son's three daughters. He 
 appointed Sir Peter Frescheville, myself, and Mr. Lowe, who is uncle by 
 the mother's side, to be the ward's committees 
 
 1622-3, January. Inhabitants of the Parish of St. Martins -in-the- 
 Fields, certify to the King the poor estate of William Hills, a Free- 
 mason, and their neighbour. 
 
 Fra. Russell. Robert Cotton. 
 
 Wm. Rember, Curate of W. Slyngisbye. Chr. Collard, Burgess. 
 St. Martins-in-the- Jo. Finet. Wm. Clarke, his assist- 
 
 Fields. W. Knollys. ant. 
 
 Wm. Emyn 1 Church- Wm. Portinton. Fr. Carter. Geo. Weale. 
 Anthony Hill j wardens. 
 
 W. Ashton. James Honnest. Robt. Boys. Ry. Style. 
 Jo. Thorp. Nic. Stone. Daniel Clarke. 
 
 Rob. Nicholl. A. Greene. John Jackson. 
 
 Nicholas Wardour. 
 
 1622-3, January. Memorial of Merchants trading to France as to 
 breaches of "last treaty," also of treaty of 21 April 1600, and com- 
 plaining of unjust action in 1622, January.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 129 
 
 1623, February 10. The Counter in the Poultry. William Wood- Coke MSS 
 cock (Brother-in-law) to John Coke, one of the Masters of the 
 Requests. 
 
 Sir, I am now utterly undone and certainly very like to lie in prison 
 for my son William his debt, for I am arrested and laid in the Counter 
 in Poultry, at the suit of one Pryse upon two actions, the one 
 773/. 13s. 4c/. the other at 100/., and the Serjeant that arrested me saith 
 my son William procured the arrest. Alas, what sorrow is it to me to 
 be thus dealt withal. ... I humbly beseech your counsel and best help 
 for my relief herein, for 1 think that this is a mean practise amongst 
 them, my son and Pryse, to out me of my farm, strip me of my goods, 
 and keep me in prison, and so to go away with my farm and leave me to 
 starve in prison, and my poor wife and children to be undone at home. 
 Your help and advice for God's sake I now crave. 
 
 1622-3, February 10. H.M. Dock near Portsmouth, Matthew Brooek 
 to the Lord Marquis of Buckingham, Lord High Admiral of England. 
 
 The prize was a French ship, which riding at an anchor in Yiana 
 Roads one Captain Peterson, a Fleming, took her and put Dutch men 
 into her. The first port the prize arrived at was Plymouth, where 
 Sir Henry Mervyn seized upon her, and as is said Sir Henry Mervyn 
 bought her of Peterson with the sugars and ordnance in her. The 
 ship itself was given to Peterson's company. The sugars he unchested 
 into casks, whereof fifteen hogsheads were delivered to Sir William 
 St. John, twenty sold at Plymouth, thirty-nine are yet aboard the ship, 
 and for the rest I cannot learn what is become of them. 
 
 1622-3, February 12. J. Coke to the Lord Marquis of Buckingham. 
 (Draft.) 
 
 First for the Castle of Bristol. I viewed it this last summer. I 
 marvelled to see it so little regarded. This noble Earl at his coming 
 out of Ireland cast his eye upon it and soon after compounded for the 
 custody, and now sueth for the inheritance ; but whether it be fit and 
 safe to put it in so great a subject's hands, how faithful soever, I humbly 
 leave to His Majesty's wisdom and yours. Secondly for Kingswood 
 Forest. It containeth 6,000 acres and though much waste hath been 
 made it remaineth full of woods aud hath rich coal mines which serve 
 the whole city and happily other metal : howsoever it is begged as a 
 matter of no present profit to the Crown, yet it is of great worth, one 
 officer is still ready both to recover and improve it if he may be assisted 
 and may prevail as easily for the King as this nobleman for himself. 
 The Crown will necessarily grow less both in honour and power as 
 others grow great. Consider this my good Lord, and keep up that by 
 which you stand. Thirdly for the Ofiice of Alienations, when it w r as 
 farmed long since it then yielded about 2,500/. rent ; since the officers 
 have raised it by degrees to 9,000/. a year and it may grow in their 
 hands as the subjects confidence and estate shall increase. My humble 
 motion to your Honour is rather to be a suppressor than a protector of 
 such projects as turn the King's honour and prerogative royal into 
 private farms. This I have written in the freedom of my duty to your 
 Honour and in assurance that 1 am safe in your hands. 
 
 1622-3, February 19. Westminster. Sir Richard Bingley to John 
 Coke one of the Masters of the Court of Requests. 
 
 To have his recommendations to my Lord Admiral for the employment 
 in the Narrow Seas which Captain Wood had. 
 
 U 24963. I
 
 130 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke 3ISS. 1622-3, February 22. Charing Cross. Sir Robert Naunton to Sir 
 
 Edward Conway, Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries 
 at the Court. 
 
 Incloses a brief of his conference with the Lord Admiral respecting a 
 grant he is to receive from the King. Would prefer to a present 
 payment diminishing His Majesty's revenue a reversionary grant in 
 fee farm to his son. 
 
 Incloses a letter of thanks to the King for His most gracious message 
 by my Lord of Carlisle. His Lordship told me he would have solicited 
 my business with the Lord Treasurer, but being now employed he leaves 
 that office to myself and tells me that the Lord Admiral told hirn I am 
 now free from restraint and at large to go whither I shall have cause. 
 I would humbly move for leave to lodge and abide in my lodgings at 
 Whitehall which His Majesty hath granted me, by which liberty I 
 should be much comforted and will hope to use it with that modesty and 
 temper as shall invite His Majesty to reintegrate me so much the sooner 
 into my wonted freedom to attend his further pleasure with my faith- 
 fullest and best services. 
 
 1622-3, February 25. The Prince Royal at Chatham at a charge 
 estimated at 994/. lis. 8d. will be made serviceable for a voyage to the 
 Coast of Spain. 
 
 W. Burrell. Thomas Norreys. 
 
 Phinees Pett. Edward J. Downes. 
 
 Andre wes Burrell. Josua Downyng. 
 
 Peter Pett. Walt, Whiting. 
 
 Jo. Dearslye. John Greaves. 
 
 Hen. Goddard. Edward Chandler. 
 
 1622-3, February 26. Newmarket. Sir Edward Conway, Secretary of 
 State, to John Coke, one of the Masters of His Majesty's Court of 
 Requests. 
 
 The servants of the Prince and matters of great charge being to 
 follow, His Majesty finds it good rather to send them by sea than by 
 land. His Majesty requires you (as one in whom he hath a particular 
 confidence) with the rest of the Commissioners of the Navy to judge 
 and to inform him as to the ship designed by the Lord Admiral, known 
 by the name of his pinnace or bark. Further you are to inform 
 yourself what English merchants of strength and countenance there 
 are that trade to Spain and the ships fitted to attend and accompany 
 that pinnace. The Lord Treasurer will prepare and furnish moneys as 
 shall be requisite. Mr. Secretary Calvert hath crder from His Majesty 
 to communicate his assistance with you. 
 
 1622-3, March 1. Newmarket. Secretary Sir Edward Conway to 
 John Coke, one of the Masters of Requests. 
 
 His Majesty expects to receive a particular account from you of 
 your proceedings both in the French business and that touching the 
 Lord Admiral, together with what shall come in debate upon that 
 Commission. 
 
 1622-3, March 3. Hale Court. Mrs. Marie Coke to John Coke. 
 [No address.] 
 
 Dear Husband, I wrote this inclosed last week thinking to send it 
 by the carrier, but was disappointed. I have since received a letter 
 from ycu by my cousin Browne, it came after though it was written 
 before that which Mr. Cam brought. I had none from the carrier 
 last week. Our men being busy in sowing and Tom Walker gone to
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIFTS COMMISSION. 131 
 
 Trusley I could not send to Ross to inquire. I thank God we are all Coke mss. 
 in good health here and do hope and pray for the continuance of yours. 
 When Tom Walker cometh back (we look for him to-morrow) I hope 
 we shall hear of the health of our good friends from thence. The 
 weather hath been so foul and I heard last week that my father was 
 gone to Gloucester, so that I went not to Preston till yesterday since 
 you went. I was intreated to stay dinner there and I heard Mr. Hanson 
 of Tydey preach both forenoon and afternoon in the church to our 
 comfort, I thank God for it. I talked with my father about Mr. Vyner's 
 money as yeu writ and found that he is very careful to pay it presently, 
 and for that purpose he had been at Gloucester himself, though the 
 wind and weather had been very cold, and had taken up the money 
 in a readiness, because he said he could not have the worth of his tithe 
 at the present, but was offered 600/. for it now, but he thought it might 
 yield seven hundred in a little space. But he seemed to be willing 
 rather to let you have Alomes and let the money at Gloucester alone 
 and was glad to apprehend that you would procure the money and doth 
 purpose to write up to you, by which I hope you shall understand his 
 mind to the settling of that matter. The last week the wain carrier 
 of Dimmock came hither to inquire whether he might carry your stuff 
 to London ; and will come again at middle lent or soon after to know 
 what answer you send him. He saith his usual rates are before May 
 6s. the hundred, after May till Midsummer as. a hundred, after 
 Midsummer till Michaelmas 4s. a hundred or 4*. 6d. a hundred. He 
 would hear the most you would give, and at his coming he would 
 buy two oxen of you and desireth to know your price of them. He 
 brought John of Alomes with him to give testimony of his honest 
 dealing. John of Alomes is willing enough to take a bargain of you 
 at Michaelmas. But till he hath gotten him a good wife I think it 
 is not good for us to meddle with him. He told me that for 8 oxen 
 it is most for your profit and your tenant to have seven score and 
 ten acres of arable, 50 acres to an odmarkes, for so much he doth 
 till now with them and so much a good husband may till and dress 
 well and if he do not so much his people and his cattle do loiter. 
 I conferred with my father about it and he taketh it into his considera- 
 tion again whether it be fit for us to let the tanner sow baldridding 
 at Michaelmas or not. We have let no more grounds as yet nor are 
 certain of more tenants. Launcet Peers told me that he was bid tell me 
 that Meeks had met with a bargain about Dimmock ; but Hugh met 
 with Meek's wife since and she told him no such matter, but 1 never 
 saw him nor heard of him since. William Cooke, William Hammonds 
 son in law, told Hugh that he would take no grounds and Hugh Turner 
 will take none yet. But I heard one would come from about Newent 
 shortly to view grounds. I wrote in my other letter what grounds we 
 had heined up to be let by your advice. Mr. Boughton told me that 
 your new men did dispraise your house in St. Martin's Lane and said 
 you might look to have it blown down on your head in a tempest 
 and they would have a house nearer Westminster and there they 
 should have the church to their minds if their mistress could abide music. 
 But I do not think you will choose your house after their humours. Of 
 Richard Mayo of the Hyde I hear no more yet, but that Mr. Ridhall 
 told notice of him for making malt. I sent our man to Gloucester to 
 buy cloaks for the boys and he went to Whitterne to help him to buy 
 them, who desired to have the cloth of this pattern, which he saith is in 
 fashion and called Buckingham colour. He desired to make them him- 
 self and doth. And I have sent the patterns to you because I think 
 their old green hats will not well agree with them at Easter, that if you 
 
 I 2
 
 132 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. do not buy them hats you may send me word what hats I shall buy for 
 them. This day sevennight we purpose to rear the shepperne at the 
 hallin and we do think to set it as I have described in this paper 
 because we cannot find so convenient a descent in the other place for 
 the muck. The rest we refer to your advice, the most advising to set them 
 as I have described in this paper. I doubt if John have not some more 
 help of a master (but not Mr. Mease) or of a tutor he will never be a 
 good Grecian. I do hear him construe half a chapter a day in the Greek 
 Testament and I help him with Beza's Latin Testament and likewise 
 Joseph. Methinks it were well John had more help for he is not so 
 forward as Joseph in it. Thus my time running away I do with my 
 best wishes commit you to God. 
 
 March 3. Your true loving wife, Marie Coke. 
 
 Hugh hath not sold the wood of Mr. Pror's as yet. 
 
 1622-3, March 4, Portsmouth Dock. Edward Boa te to Mr. Coke r 
 1622-3, March 15, Master of the Requests, and 
 
 1622-3, March 24, ., one of the Commissoners of 
 
 his Majesty's Navy Royal, 
 at Lord Brooke's house,. 
 Holborn. 
 
 Accounts of Boatswains of Adventure and the Garland. Sir Henry 
 Mervyn is already come down and lieth on board the ship where he 
 hath sent for some of Sir W. St. John's gentlemen, which are very many. 
 
 1622-3, March 5. London. J. Coke to Mr. Secretary Conway, at 
 Newmarket. (Copy.) 
 
 States for the King's directions that Sir H. Mervyn is come to 
 Portsmouth, and lieth aboard the Guardland, and consulteth much with 
 Sir W. St. John's followers as pressed men to carry away the sugars 
 which yet remain aboard the French ship, now the King's. One Corn- 
 wallis Blagge was in one of the French vessels that took and rifled the 
 ship, and he knoweth the whole carriage of the business. A messenger 
 hath him in his hands, and will carry him first to Mr. Secretary Calvert, 
 and then by his direction bring him to be examined by us. I recommend 
 that the Lords send a messenger for bringing Sir H. Mervyn up to 
 London. Concerning the prince's servants, but 100/. is demanded for 
 their transportation and charges, which will be no ill bargain, yet my 
 Lord Carey promiseth to save thereof what he can to the King. I 
 beseech your Honour to stay or call back Sir W. St. John, if he offer to 
 go hence. 
 
 1622-3, March 6. Newmarket. Sir Edward Conway to John Coke. 
 
 His Majesty commands me to make a despatch so suddenly as I can 
 neither receive so particular instructions as I desire nor express them 
 so as I ought. His Majesty I conceive will make use of the Captain 
 you named, and jump in opinion with you concerning Sir Francis 
 Steward. I made the King understand we hear nothing of Sir H. 
 Mervyn. 
 
 1622-3, March 7. J. Coke to Mr. Secretary Conway. (Draft.) 
 Stating evidence for and against Sir H. Mervyn and other officers 
 respecting the taking of the French ship Croissant and the dealing 
 with her cargo. To employ them at this time would be a kind of
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 133 
 
 justification of them against the Ambassador's complaints. The most Coke mss. 
 moderate form of holding them in suspense may be by letters from 
 yourself or Mr. Secretary Calvert to signify His Majesty's pleasure 
 generally to Sir H. Mervyn and Sir William St. John that they leave 
 their ships for the time and repair to London and attend the Commis- 
 sion, and then to Sir Kichard Biugley, or whom else His Majesty 
 maketh choice of, to take charge of the Adventure for that voyage 
 now in hand. 
 
 Form of two letters to be written, one to Sir H. Mervyn, Admiral in 
 the Garland ; the other to Sir William St. John, Vice Admiral in 
 the Adveniure. Also form of a letter to Sir Kichard Bingley (or 
 any other) to take charge of his Majesty's ship Adventure, and to 
 take in with him 40 of ths Prince's servants appointed by list and to 
 use all diligence to land them safely at the Groine (Corunna), St. 
 Lucars, or other convenient port in Spain ; and afterwards to return 
 into the Narrow Seas. 
 
 1622-3, March 10. The Garland. Sir Henry Mervyn to Mr. Coke, 
 one of the Commissioners for His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 I judge by the warrant which cites some of the Garland's officers 
 to make appearance before the Commissioners that the plaint concern- 
 ing the French ship taken by my Lord Soubize's man-of-war is lefc to 
 the consideration of the Commissioners. If it be so I have two requests 
 to you, the one that we may find that respect the place we hold as also 
 our conditions may merit ; the other that you will be pleased to con- 
 sider seriously whether we have wittingly done any act not justifiable 
 by the sea laws and national customs or not concurring with the in- 
 structions of the state. Do me the favour to send your letter to the 
 Garland, and I shall neglect all occasions to come up and give you a 
 better account of the business. I desire to stand fair in his Majesty's 
 opinion wherein I now suffer undeservedly by scandalous suggestions. 
 
 1622-3, March 10. London. J. Coke to Sir Edward Conway. 
 (Copy.) 
 
 Has desired of Mr. Secretary Calvert a warrant to seize into safe 
 hands at, Portsmouth both the ordnance and sugars and all goods lately 
 taken by Sir H. Mervyn, and also the small ship which Sir W. St. John 
 brought thither, and into which the said goods were now removed, and 
 has moved him to warn Sir W. St. John to stay in town. For the 
 despatch of the Adventure we only expect his Majesty's order to 
 him that shall take the charge according to the form I sent you in my 
 last. 
 
 1622-3, March 12. John Coke to Mr. Secretary Conway. (Copy.) 
 Besides the French prize 1 have notice of five or six taken about 
 Weymouth. I hear of another of good value brought to llfordcombe. 
 But that whereof 1 now think fit to advertise His Majesty concerneth 
 one Lucas, a Hutch captain who serveth in a ship of war of Amsterdam 
 with commission from the States for apprehension of pirates, yet he was 
 first victualled from Ipswich and his company is most English, and he 
 first took in the King's port of Torbay a Dutch ship of 50 tons carrying 
 y small pieces of ordnance, which Sir W. St. John recovered from him 
 and took to Portsmouth, where he and Sir H. Mervyn would have 
 employed her to carry away the sugars if I had not procured both the 
 ship and the goods to be stayed. Lucas with the same English com- 
 pany hath taken another Dutch ship betwixt the points of Plymouth 
 and Foy, and carried her to Helford, and sold the coin in her. I move 
 that commandment may be given to Sir James Bagg, Vice-Admiral for 
 Cornwall, that he seize and sequester the corn and find out the buyers
 
 134 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 and inquire what Englishmen served in Lucas' ship, and who assisted 
 him in setting out to sea, and who committed any outrage or disorder 
 in this business. 
 
 1622-3, March 13. A paper indorsed by J. Coke "Mr. Duffield's 
 note concerning the light to be erected on the Goodwin." 
 
 We whose names are hereunder written humbly certify unto your 
 good lordship that within the times since we can remember we have 
 known that the several ships and vessels under mentioned have come 
 aground or cast away upon the Goodwin Sands .... English ships 
 (6), Scots ships (2), Flemish ships (4), French ships (2). 
 
 Rough draft by J. Coke of propositions to be made by the Lord 
 Admiral to Sir Noel Caron (on the part of the States of the Low Coun- 
 tries), and to the chief towns of trade within the Sound or the Elbe or 
 the Ems, and to the Archduchess and the French for levying of tolls 
 on vessels. 
 
 1622-3, March 14. Newmarket. Sir Edward Conway, Secretary of 
 State, to John Coke, one of the Masters, of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 Upon an information given to the King that the Prince Royal 
 cannot be made ready in less than two months, His Majesty is almost 
 ready to change counsel concerning her preparation and employment. 
 His Majesty requires you to give him a perfect account of the true 
 state of these things and assurance whether his expectations shall be 
 fulfilled or not, that all the shipping should be ready by the end of 
 April. 
 
 1622-3, March 15. Portsmouth. Matthew Brooke to John Coke. 
 
 The merchandize and ordnance are not in the Garland, but in 
 the ship taken by Sir W. St. John which is moored in the dock. The 
 sugar is landed in a storehouse. Captain Steward's ship has been sold 
 by one Wyon from the Admiralty in a manner infringing my Lord 
 Admiral's right. 
 
 1622-3, March 16. Interrogatories to be ministered to Sir H. Mervine 
 and Sir Humphrey Stiles touching the French prize. 
 
 1622-3, March 16. Sir John Coke to Sir Edward Conway " for His 
 Majesty's Affairs." (Copy.) 
 
 (1 .) As to preparations for the Prince's voyage. Asks such directions 
 as His Majesty shall think fit 
 
 1. Whether the flag of England which was used at the Lady Eliza- 
 
 beth's transportation, and is now much decayed, shall be only 
 repaired, or a new one made which will cost near a hundred 
 pounds. 
 
 2. Whether another new flag or ensign shall be made with the 
 
 Prince's colours. 
 
 3. Whether the Prince's trumpeters shall be sent and their banners 
 
 made new. 
 
 4. Whether the top armours and waist cloths shall have any extra- 
 
 ordinary ornaments. 
 6. Whether any hangings shall be sent to furnish the great cabin and 
 
 half deck. 
 6. Whether the Prince's barge and barge cloth shall be carried to 
 
 help bring them aboard. 
 
 (2.) I have desired the assistance of my fellow commissioners, neither 
 
 have I certified anything wherein they dissent. But where the pains 
 
 and care of one man is rather required I confess I have been forward 
 
 to discharge the special trust reposed in me, though I know that thereby
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 135 
 
 as also by the many addresses I have received from your honour I draw 
 envy upon me. 
 
 1622-3, March 17. Dorchester. The confession of Peter GroufFe, one 
 of the company of Peter Sallendra, as to goods landed from a ship in 
 Weymouth Harbour in which Mistress Dennis was the chief actor. 
 
 1622-3, March 17. London. James Bagg, junior, to John Coke, 
 Esquire, one of the Masters of Requests. 
 
 Frederick Lucas and his associates keep between Plymouth and the 
 Land's End and take to harbour that lawless port of Helford. Haply 
 some course may be taken for his surprisal there or in Cawsand Bay. 
 
 1622-3, March 17. St. James'. R. Cave and Henry Hony (the 
 Prince's officers), to John Coke, Esquire, Master of the Requests to His 
 Majesty and one of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Edmund Gardiner, Master of the John and Hunfry, is agreed with 
 for the transporting of His Highness' servants from hence for Spain ; Ave 
 do desire a warrant for the furnishing of his ship with sufficient mariners 
 and pilots. 
 
 [Note by J. Coke. Order given for the pressing of 12 able 
 mariners. Mr. Gardiner and the Masters of the 3 other merchants of 
 London to agree for falling down the river and going in company, so as 
 all may attend the Adventure from Portsmouth.] 
 
 1622-3, March 20. J. Coke to Mr. Secretary Conway. (Copy.) 
 For the present despatch of Sir R. Bingley with the Prince's servants 
 I have drawn his Instructions as the common act of the Commissioners. 
 Understanding by my Lord Treasurer that he had prepared a fair new 
 barge cloth for His Majesty at the last convention of Parliament, we 
 presume to offer to His Majesty's consideration whether a barge and that 
 barge cloth may not be sent for the Prince's own use. 
 Within this the following copy of a letter. 
 
 1622-3, March 21. Newmarket, Sir Edward Conway to John Coke, 
 Esquire, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 I give you His Majesty's answer touching Sir Henry Mervyn. If he 
 will give his confession in writing it shall come first to His Majesty's 
 hands and opening. If he desire to do it personally he may when the 
 King comes to Theobalds, provided that he come under guard. If there 
 be a barge and barge cloth ready without cost to the King they may be 
 sent. 
 
 1622-3, March 22. J. Coke to Mr. Secretary Conway. (Copy.) 
 The manner of Sir H. Mervyn's restraint is that he abides in the 
 custody of a messenger sent by Mr. Secretary Calvert. I gave way to 
 Sir H. Mervyn's request to confess to the King, and to enforce him to 
 speak truth I propose when I acquaint him with his His Majesty's ac- 
 ceptance to tell him that the proofs against them are pregnant, and that 
 His Majesty knows all, partly (I confess) out of a desire that he 
 should rather by performing his promise make himself capable of His 
 Majesty's grace. I have got notice that St. Ravie (servant to Mons. 
 Soubize) and commander of the ship, which under Bassan, his lieutenant, 
 took the prize, is now at Newmarket about his master's business there. 
 He likewise can discover what interest our captains had in taking or 
 freeing of the ship and who had shares therein. 
 
 1622-3, March 23. Newmarket. Sir Edward Conway to John 
 Coke. 
 
 I wrote to Mr. Secretary Calvert that his Majesty's pleasure was that 
 if the charge and proofs were pregnant against Sir Henry Mervyn he
 
 136 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. should be committed to some merchant's house in London to be safe 
 kept. And now his Majesty's answer is touching Sir H. Mervyn's 
 private confession to him, if it concern the French business, he cannot 
 dispense with that, it being a right belonging to the French 
 Ambassador. 
 
 1622-3, March 24. (Draft by John Coke.) Captain Love's 
 information about two ships taken by Sir Francis Steward in the 
 Nonsuch, and himself in the Assurance from Steward, a Scot with 
 a States commission, and having a consort with a Rochelle com- 
 mission, and two other ships which had been taken by the two last and 
 brought to St. Helens. Mr. Ailsbury himself went to Portsmouth and 
 carried with him one Hugeson an English merchant of Dover, who by 
 shipping strangers' goods had gotten great wealth. This Hugeson 
 made claim to the stuffs and other goods taken by the Scot and so 
 had them restored by Mr. Ailsbury. Then came Captain Christian with 
 a commission and took these ships and goods out of Sir Francis 
 Steward's and Captain Love's hands and how all was disposed of he 
 must give account. These were the goods of Burlamachi and others. 
 
 1622-3, March 24. Examination of R. Sambourn, merchant, 
 concerning prizes at Weymouth. 
 
 1623, March 25. Hale. Peter Mease to John Coke, at Brook 
 House. 
 
 Certe mihi et Josephus et Johannes videntur esse Academiae 
 maturi. Mihi semper in animo fuit aut theologus esse aut medicus, 
 malui semper bonus esse theologus quam bonus medicus et lamen 
 semper mallem malus esse medicus quam malus theologus. Hie possum 
 esse inalus medicus ; bonus theologus in tanta librorum penuria esse 
 non possum. Cantabrigi aut Londoni bonus forsar theologus evadere 
 potero. 
 
 1623, March 26. Simon Harvey to John Coke, one of the Masters 
 of Requests, at Brook House, in Holborn. 
 
 The Lords have written again unto Herefordshire concerning the 
 compositions to be conveyed to such as you think fittest. 
 
 1623, March 29. Exeter. Doctor Bar. Gooch to the Lord Bishop of 
 Exeter, at his house in Great Saint Bartholomew's, London. 
 
 Concerning a gate being made through the town walls. Our good 
 neighbours wonder the bishop would attempt such a business. The wall is 
 old, thin, high, ill-builded, no ways flanked, but by some old decayed 
 towers only fit to fill up the ditch. The town lies open to the King's 
 Castle, which hath a gate that opens to the country. The Earl of Bed- 
 ford made a door through the wall out of his garden that hath stood 60 
 years. 
 
 1623, March 30. Portsmouth. Sir Richard Bingley to John Coke. 
 
 A letter is come to my Lord Cary concerning the merchant ships that 
 should accompany us into Spain, that if the wind come fair his Lordship 
 shall not stay for them. I pray your answer concerning the camels and 
 asses. 
 
 1623, March 31. Theobalds. Fulke Grevyl, Lord Brooke, to John 
 Coke. 
 
 1 received your letter this day at three a clock and the King being at 
 rest it was almost five before I could acquaint him with it. He accepts 
 your care and choice in it passing well. So if either of the two prizes 
 would be fitted to serve the turn he gives you this warrant for your dis- 
 charge. His express commandment is that you arrest that ship of 120
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 137 
 
 tons till his pleasure be further known. He expects to hear from you 
 to-morrow touching the business of the piracies. 
 
 1623, March 31. Examination of Edw. Roy of Weymouth and 
 Melcombe Regis before his Majesty's Commissioners for Piracies. 
 
 1623, April 1. Theobalds. Fulke Grevyl, Lord Brooke to His 
 Majesty's Commissioners of the Navy. 
 
 The King directs me to return the examinations concerning certain 
 Rochelle ships and you yourselves shall make choice of some learned 
 and sincere civilian to join with the Attorney-General to sum up the 
 whole business that his Majesty may enlighten his own judgment and 
 use justice with an equal and merciful hand. You are to take care that 
 the parties are safely guarded and forthcoming (Sir H. Mervyn and Sir 
 W. St. John). 
 
 1623, April 1. Theobalds. Sir Edward Conway, Secretary of State, 
 to the Commissioners of the Navy. 
 
 Sir Humphrey Style to have been examined, but he being by His 
 Majesty's leave a principal gent, attending Monsieur de Soubize at the 
 taking of the prize is to be used with respect and suffered quietly freely 
 and without any manner of restraint to return to attend His Majesty's 
 service. 
 
 1623, Avril 2. Lambeth. Noelde Caron a Monsieur Mons. Conway, 
 Chevalier et premier Secretaire de Sa Majeste. 
 
 Je vous prie de vouloir requerir Sa Majeste faire depecher un War- 
 rant pour delivrer un Capitaine avec 3 de ses olficiers qui sont mis 
 prisonniers au Chateau de l'lle de Wight a cause que Reyer Jacobssen 
 van Schermhoven etant sorti de nos havres avee commission de guerre 
 de Messeigneurs les Etats se seroit debauche de sa commission en 
 pirate et pris un navire de nos marchands. Un de nos capitaines 
 nomme Moye Lambert lui a saisi en mer avec sa dite prise. 
 
 1623, April 3. Theobalds. Mr. Secretary Conway to the Commis- 
 sioners of the Navy. 
 
 The King sends Sir Noel Caron's letter; they are to take information 
 of the business and certify thereon. 
 
 1623, April 3. Portsmouth Dock. Matthew Brooke to John 
 Coke, Master of the Requests, and one of the Commissioners for His 
 Majesty's Navy Royal, at Lord Brooke's house in Holborn. 
 
 Sir W. St. John's prize ship is too low for the camels. Sir F. 
 Steward's ship requireth 80/. charge to make her ready in 14 days time. 
 Adventure under sail, Lord Vaughan gone aboard. 
 
 1623, April 3. Theobalds. Mr. Secretary Conway to the Commis- 
 sioners of the Navy. 
 
 The King desires that the Defiance (one of the ten) shall be the 
 ship to wait two or three months at St. Anderaes (Santauder), and shall 
 be accompanied with a smaller ship. Touching the business of the two 
 Captains His Majesty approves of the choice of Doctor Reeve to join 
 with Mr. Attorney and to attend Mr. Secretary Calvert. 
 
 1G23, April 5. Peter Fortrye and James Smyther, Commissioners 
 under the Admiralty. Information concerning Reyer Jacobson, whose 
 ships were stayed near Hurst Castle. 
 
 1623, April 13. Whitehall. Secretary Sir Edward Conway to John 
 Coke, one of the Masters of Requests. 
 
 The bearer is to receive directions where to find the Susan to 
 receive the horses, so as Sir Henry Vane be not disappointed when he
 
 138 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 shall come to the place appointed with the goods and horses, and to 
 bring answer what hour the tide will serve and the ship be ready to take 
 in the horses. 
 
 1623, April 14. Sir Gylford Slyngisbie to John Coke, one of the 
 Masters of His Majesty's Court of Requests. 
 
 Sir, Being at last resolved to receive the Commission from which my 
 insupportable miseries have detained me, and examining myself, I find 
 passion hath overruled me more than piety in wishing God's justice 
 upon my oppressors and their children, forgetting Our Saviour's 
 admonition Love them that hate you and pray for them that persecute 
 you. 
 
 Asks to be Captain of the Admiral's ship : also to know a resolution 
 for continuance of the Commission. 
 
 1623, April 15. John Coke to Lord Brooke. 
 
 As to ships for the horses and trunks to the Groine (Corunna). If 
 the horses and stuff be divided the Prince can use neither till both 
 meet again. Who shall take charge to carry the trunks, which are near 
 80, when they come at the Groine ? The servants of my Lord Carlisle 
 and others will not willingly go apart from their stuff. 
 
 1623, April 16. Bristol. Edward Boate to John Coke, Esquire, 
 Master of Request, and one of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy 
 Royal, these at my Lord Brooke's on Holborn Hill or other where. 
 
 The Phcenix to be docked within a year or two. Purser a very 
 able man hath kept a fleet book of all that victualled aboard. Sir 
 Thomas Button's unreasonable gains in victuals. His continual absence, 
 having scarce been on board these three years. Waste in Boatswain's 
 stores. Two anchors and a cable lent unto the East India Company. 
 A new cable sold by the Master, Mr. Brooke. 
 
 1623, April 18. Plymouth. James Bagg to John Coke, Esquire, 
 one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 Rosekimmer Avent with his prizes for Holland, which as reported 
 were delivered to the proprietors and the English imprisoned. Lucas 
 and their carriage was most uncivil and wicked in Cornwall, and we 
 shall find the abettors worthy of punishment. I have returned the 
 press books and have disbursed 19/. 14s. 6d., which I pray may be 
 ordered that Sir W. Russell pay it. My Lord of Bath hath deserved a 
 thanks from you. The number from Cornwall within my Vice Admiralty 
 I have increased from 66 to 77 men. Such men as the hand stands 
 against are eleven able men sufficient to be pilots for that coast of 
 Spain. I would know whether my Lord returns ; Avho goes General 
 when the ships set forward ; whether out or homewards they shall touch 
 here. 
 
 1623, April 20. " The brief of Pope Gregory the Fifteenth's 
 Holiness translated out of the Latin into Spanish." (An English 
 version.) 
 
 To the most noble Prince of Wales, son of the King of Great Britain, 
 Gregory the loth Pope. 
 
 Exhorts the Prince by the example of his forefathers to turn into 
 the bosom of the Roman Church, which humbly beseeching the God of 
 all mercy with unspeakable sighs and groans doth open the arms of 
 Apostolic charity most lovingly to embrace her much desired son. 
 
 [Two French versions of the Prince's answer to this letter are in 
 Rapin's History of England, Vol. VII., p. 207.]
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 139 
 
 1623, April 20. J. Coke to Mr. Secretary Conway. (Draft.) 
 Sir Henry Fane (Vane) having a former notice by Mr. Killigrew had 
 sent a messenger to call back the Susan, with the horses and tilt 
 furniture. The fleet will be ready to go to sea this week. But the 
 Admiral hath not as yet his commission, nor the Vice Admiral, Rear 
 Admiral or Captains are known, and till they be appointed they cannot 
 make choice of their masters. Besides the Prince's diet is not yet 
 provided by the officers of the Household. We have made two ships 
 ready for that service, and I have delivered to Mr. Treasurer a note of 
 the numbers of men every ship will conveniently carry and the number 
 of tables and what places are in every ship. Upon speech with the 
 Clerk of the Kitchen I find the proportion intended to be very exor- 
 bitant. 
 
 1623, April 21. Windsor. Mr. Secretary Conway to J. Coke. 
 
 The Admiral's commission is under hand, the captains and officers 
 are resolved on between the King and the Admiral, and will be declared 
 presently. As for the convoy, the King's ships should carry the hacknies 
 so far upon the coast as conveniently they might without imbaying 
 themselves or hazarding the missing of the port of Groine (Corunna), 
 the ship of hacknies to stand for the port of St. Andera (Santander), 
 and it is His Majesty's absolute pleasure and commands that without 
 reply Sir Francis Stewart shall convoy that ship so far as possibly he 
 can. 
 
 1623, April 22. John Coke to Secretary Conway. 
 
 Concerning the claims in the Admiralty Court of the Ambassadors of 
 Spain and Holland to the prize at Ilfordcombe. Both his Majesty the 
 Lord Admiral and Proprietaries receiving much prejudice by the prose- 
 cution of suits in the Ambassadors names, His Majesty by the Lord 
 Admiral gave orders that actions in that Court should henceforward be 
 solicited in the Proprietaries own names and no others. If the goods 
 should prove Dutch I offer for His Majesty's consideration whether 
 having them in his power he may not right himself and the Lord 
 Admiral for the wrong lately done by Moy Lambert in carrying the 
 ships from the Cowes, for all pirates taken in the King's chamber are 
 forfeited to the Lord Admiral. 
 
 1623, April 22. On board the St. George at Chatham. Sir Francis 
 Steuart to J. Coke. 
 
 I have received two letters from His Majesty to hasten away these 
 ships which Captain Love and I command ; but fit wind I can find none 
 in any of the storehouses nor in all the country for love nor money 
 either to warp or sail them over the chain, till it please God of his 
 goodness to send it. 
 
 1623, April 29. Whitehall. Mr. Secretary Conway to J. Coke. 
 
 His Majesty took a great deal of satisfaction from your general yet 
 particular relation. I am now to require you to hasten the hearing of 
 Sir H. Mervyn's business : he appoints for Commissioners the Lord Presi- 
 dent, the Lord Marshal, Mr. Secretary Calvert, and the Master of the 
 Rolls. 
 
 1623, April. John Coke to Mr. Secretary Conway. (Draft.) 
 Sir Richard Bingley has had instructions to expect directions from 
 the Prince or Lord Admiral in the Port of St. Anderaes (Santander) : 
 now by a second direction from Mr. Secretary Calvert he is commanded 
 to stay there till he receive from the Earl of Bristol -1 camels and 
 certain great asses and a Barbary horse. My respect to the honour of 
 the King's ships makes me sorry to have them used for transporters oi 
 beasts. (Endorsed on Simon Harvey's letter of 1023, March 26.)
 
 140 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1623, April. John Coke to Mr. Secretary Conway. (Draft.) 
 I have attended the Spanish Ambassador according to His Majesty's 
 commandment, and as I hope have given satisfaction. We have agreed 
 upon our certificate in the cause of Sir H. Mervyn and Sir W. St. John. 
 In the meantime I stay Sir H. Mervyn from coming in person to make 
 his acknowledgment to His Majesty. (Endorsed on Simon Harvey's 
 letter of 1G23, March 26.) 
 
 1623, May 2. Th. Smythe, J. Welstenholme, Nich. Fortescue, Fr. 
 Goston, R. Sutton (Commissioners of the Navy at Philpot Lane) invite 
 Mr. Coke, one of the Masters of the Court of Requests, to accompany 
 them to Chatham to make the musters aboard the ships. 
 
 1623, May 5. Morley. Captain Jacinth Sacheverell to Sir Francis 
 Coke in London. 
 
 Touching a suit in the Court of Requests between himself and 
 Matthew Knyveton of Horsley upon mutual bonds. Asks that John 
 Coke may be acquainted with the particulars and that the equity 
 of the cause being justly he will impart his lawful f;ivour and further- 
 ance. Munday and have sued him in Kuyveton's name. 
 
 1623, May 7. Certificate on the petition of Sir Nicholas Halse 
 alleging that Henry Cutts of Aldersgate Street had detained from him 
 certain moneys, that Cutts had failed to attend conferences three times 
 appointed by the certifiers. Signed by Fra. Drake. John Shotbolt, Lewis 
 Hele. 
 
 1623, May 8. Plymouth. James Bagg, Junior, to John Coke, 
 Esquire, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty at Lord 
 Brooke's house in Holborn. 
 
 Captain George Herriot set sail hence and put into Fowey refuseth 
 to land or send his commission to the Vice Admiral refuseth obedience 
 to the King's proclamation proposeth resistance to the forces of the 
 country, but tendered to land for my Lord and the Vice Admiral 48 
 bags of woad and 19 hogsheads of French wine ; then sent his longboat 
 and 40 men to surprize the barge in which the goods were conveyed it 
 ran aground in a creek and was rescued by Sir Bernard Grenvill a 
 Deputy Lieutenant. Herriot has 140 able men. He hath taken a prize 
 of sugar from Johnson a Dutchman, having a commission, and pillaged 
 his man-of-war. He has set sail with the sugar prize for Ireland. 
 
 1623, May 10. Westminster. Sir John Ramsay, Earl of Holdernes, 
 to Mr. Coke, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 If at any time any business of Sir Edward Coke required his being at 
 London it was His Majesty's pleasure upon signification to me or unto 
 some person near His Majesty of his business that to avoid further 
 trouble to His Majesty therein he should have by some of us license to 
 come to London for three days to dispatch his business. Sir Edward 
 Coke hath written to me for leave to come to instruct his counsel in his 
 cause depending in the Court of Wards. I entreat you to write your 
 letter to him for his repair to London with such limitation and observance 
 of His Majesty's pleasure as is mentioned in the former warrant you sent 
 
 1623, May 14. Aldersgate Street. Sir Henry Marten (Judge of the 
 Admiralty Court) to John Coke, one of the Masters of Requests to his 
 Majesty. 
 
 The Counsel for my Lord Ambassador of Spain would urge me to 
 condemn the States tanquam exercentes latrocinium non bellum. My 
 earnest request to his Majesty is that he would command Sir Julius 
 Caesar and some other of the most understanding Doctors of the Arches 
 to assist me in this sentence, for we sometimes judge " de consilio juris- 
 peritorum quibuscum in hac parte communicavimus." There is one
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 141 
 
 difficulty more, viz., in all this cause no former owner of these goods 
 appeareth, whereas I have a direct restraint from his Majesty not to de- 
 cree the possession of any goods but to the particular owners and 
 proprietaries, which restraint I dare not transgress. 
 
 1623, May 16. The Inner Temple. Robert Heath, Solicitor-General, 
 to John Coke, Esquire, one of the Masters of Requests to his Majesty. 
 
 The prisoners of the King's Bench and the Fleet obtained a reference 
 to myself to draw up a Commission to mediate for their liberty and agree 
 with their creditors. The Commission of 28 Eliz. out of the excess 
 thereof would fail to do them good : but I have not warrant to vary at 
 my discretion. The petitioners desire to renew their suit. Out of their 
 penury they have desired me to let you know that you shall have a very 
 thankful acknowledgment before the petition part from your hands. 
 
 1623, May 16. Chatham. Thos. Norr'eys to the Commissioners of 
 the Navy. 
 
 As to the weak manning of the Prince. 
 
 1623, May 17. In the Downs, Captain J. Best to John Coke, one of 
 His Majesty's Masters of Requests. 
 
 Thanks for the present preferment and place which I enjoy. Gross 
 abuse in this ship grown to a habit hardly to be reformed, but shall be 
 shortly. For the Happy Entrance a fitter man than Walter Coke 
 for your chief you cannot have. 
 
 1623, May 18. Gravesend. Captain Thomas Vaughan to John 
 Coke, one of his Majesty's Masters of Requests and a Commissioner 
 of the Navy. 
 
 I find the Prudence ill manned and the number in her only fit for 
 close fights. The master and myself are agreed ; I allow the master 
 60 men, and 1 have 4 for my retinue. If half a dozen gentlemen goeth as 
 volunteers they shall be at their own charges. My suit is for the 
 pressing of 20 sufficient sailors. 
 
 1623, May 19. The Fleet, Sir John Benet to Mr. Coke, one of the 
 M asters of Requests to his Majesty. 
 
 If his Majesty were heretofore so distasted with me yet, because Dies 
 ut dolorem sic iram miuuit and chiefly for that Corda regum sunt in 
 manu Dei, I press now for the access and entertainment of a new 
 petition. What is the fruit of the commission awarded for the discovery 
 of a supposed great personal estate of* mine I have truly related. Sir 
 Edward Sackville, who was the Chief Commissioner and known to be my 
 unfriend, told a friend of his and mine that he had informed His Majesty 
 that he held my personal estate to be poor and weak as in truth it is. 
 Good Sir I eftsoones desire you to acquaint His Majesty with my petition 
 and purchase me a favourable answer. 
 
 1623, May 20. Indorsed by J. Coke. " Mr. Viners bil." 
 
 
 fyve peeces of Hangings - - - - 22 
 
 Hatt ... . 
 
 Caring and reeariag of 4 suits of hangings from 
 
 Cornehill to Ilolborne - 
 A letter from the low Cuntries (Mr. Burlimachi) 
 
 For 2 liveries. 
 fyve yards of cloth - - - - 2 1 2 6 
 
 Lace, 17/6; silke, 2/6; bays, 7/6; stiffhinge, /6 ; 
 
 making, 6/ - - - 1 14 
 
 27 16 10 
 
 s. 
 
 <L 
 
 15 
 
 6 
 
 10 
 
 6 
 
 3 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 

 
 142 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1623, May 21. Chelsea. Ph. Willis (Cousin) to John Coke, Master 
 of the Requests now attending his Majesty. 
 
 My son Henry of Jesus College stands in some assurance of a Fellow- 
 ship there which is devolved to the visitor my Lord of Ely's gift if no 
 transcendent letters mandate come from the King to cross it. I beseech 
 you if any labour against me come by your hands to stay it and give me 
 notice and desire the like of Mr. Secretary Conway. 
 
 1623, May 28 (stilo vet.) Madrid. George, Duke of Buckingham, 
 to John Coke, Master of Requests to his Majesty. 
 
 Mister Coke, I shall ever be as thankful to my master as lieth in my 
 power, but whereas you bid me give His Majesty only thanks I must 
 say I know well the difference between naked obedience and that where 
 affection is joined to it : the difference between those despatches which 
 pass your hands and others gives me good experience of it. You shall 
 hereafter have the like of me and the experience of a little more time 
 shall better assure you how much I am your faithful friend and servant. 
 
 1623, May. Copy petition to the King of Sir William Garway 
 (Garraway) and Sir J. Wolstenholme respecting a debt of 10,418/. 
 secured to them by the Earl of Suffolk by mortgage, and the Earl's 
 claim to have 2,500/. a year paid to him by them for their lease of the 
 Customs during the three years that he was Lord Treasurer and the two 
 years till his successor was appointed. It is beyond all precedent that 
 they have been decreed to pay him a gratuity, he being a great official 
 of the Crown displaced for misdemeanor in taking gratuities. 
 
 1624, June 10. Draft of a Commission issued by George Duke of 
 Buckingham (reciting all his titles and offices), as Lord Admiral, to 
 Francis Bassett, Vice Admiral of the North parts of Cornwall, James 
 Bagg, Vice Admiral of the South parts of Cornwall, and John Chud- 
 leigh, Captain and Commander of His Majesty's pinnace the Charles, 
 to examine concerning one Captain Williams, Captain and Commander 
 of a ship of Amsterdam called the Centaur, who lately committed 
 an insufferable contempt and offence against His Majesty and us his 
 Admiral in shooting at the said pinnace the Charles and killing and 
 hurting divers of the company in her in His Majesty's seas, which bold 
 attempt and offence trencheth so much upon the honour of His Majesty 
 and His Navy that it is not to be passed over without some such exem- 
 plary punishment as an act of that quality doth demerit. 
 
 1623, June 14. London. Thomas Alured to John Coke, Esquire, 
 one of the Masters of Requests attending His Majesty. 
 
 Sir Francis Cottington came yesterday at two of the clock to Green- 
 wich, where he was private with the King till six. As yet no new r s, 
 no marriage. The scenes and the actors are so far off, and are yet, 
 I fear, rather in the tiring house than upon the stage. Some say some 
 time hath been spent in reconciliations as betwixt the Duke and 
 Olivares. A report that the Vice Admiral either refusing to have our 
 English service or labouring to have mass said on shipboard, the 
 mariners and he fell at difference, but the marinors were predominant in 
 their own element, and so kept their ancient custom of having prayers 
 every morning and would not admit of a strange order or language 
 among them. The Earls of Pembroke and Carlisle in their passage to 
 Southampton had some foul passages which went to loud words. I am 
 so sorry it happened that I am loath either to inquire into the parti- 
 culars or relate them. I cannot advertise you of your lease drawing 
 My respects remembered to yourself, to Mrs. Coke, and Mr. Powell.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 143 
 
 1623, June 15. Sir Robert Pye to John Coke, Esquire, one of His 
 Majesty's Masters of Requests at his house in Marcle. 
 
 I received a letter directed to you from the Prince, brought by Sir 
 Francis Cottington, and in divers letters I received from Mr. Grimes I 
 do find he hath done you good offices to the Prince and my Lord Duke 
 The marriage is not now expected so soon. Sir F. Cottington is come, 
 but no certain day yet resolved upon, and no other news will be known 
 until this ambassador be gone who is not yet come hither. The fleet 
 doth certainly go on to Bayonne, where Captain Love is commanded to 
 attend. 
 
 The Ambassador is come and 70 in number tag and rag. 
 
 1623, June. Docquet. Pardons to Thomas Ferris, of Kingston- 
 upon-Hull, and William Baynton for marriage with daughters of de- 
 ceased wife's sister. 
 
 1623, June 20. Instructions to Captain Best of the Guard/and, 
 appointed Admiral, for his expedition to the Coast of Scotland to pro- 
 tect vessels of Dunkirk or Ostend or other parts under the obedience of 
 the King of Spain or the Archduchess against Hollanders. 
 
 1G23, June 24. Examinations (concerning Captain Williams) of 
 Thomas Rabenett, Master of the pinnace Charles, describing an 
 attempt by it to capture Captain Williams' ship and its prize in Torbay, 
 and answering to the question " whether they either killed or hurt any 
 of our men," No, for all our men came off well, God be thanked. 
 
 And of three others. 
 
 1623, Jvdy 13. Aboard His Majesty's ship the Guard 'land in Leith 
 Road. Captain Thomas Best to the Commissioners of His Majesty's 
 Navy at the house of Sir Thomas Smyth, Knight, in Philpot Lane. 
 (No signature.) 
 
 The Dunkirk ship in Aberdeen Harbour, where the tide ebbs dry. 
 She can only float in a spring tide three days in fifteen, and come out 
 when the wind is fair. Two Hollanders men-of-war are close alongside 
 her and four others outside. My resolution is to take 41) or 50 out of 
 both the ships and to put them into the Dunkirk ship, and to spread 
 His Majesty's colours with ancients and streamers in her and to take 
 the first benefit of tide and wind, not doubting but to equal the Hol- 
 lander's forces in the two ships if they shall interpose, and then if we 
 can get her out into the Road I shall not fear the rest. If the Hol- 
 landers shall attempt any hostile act I will put the King's ships to it ; 
 fall off as they will I have laid my rest, I will sooner die than return 
 with dishonour to the King. The Admiral of the Holland men-of-war 
 hath his flag in her main-top, and giveth it out that he will not take it 
 in for all the commands of His Majesty's ships. 40 years is within the 
 compass of my knowledge, and 1 never knew but that all nations forbear 
 to spread their flags in the presence of the King's ships. That custom 
 shall not be lost by me. When I come into the road and anchor by 
 him, if the Admiral will not take in his flag when I shall require it I 
 will shoot it down, though it grow into a quarrel. 
 
 1623, July 14. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to John Coke, Inquire, 
 at Hale Court. 
 
 Good brother, I understand by my brother Woodcock that you hold 
 your resolution for London. I hoped you would not have taken my 
 sister and household up until towards Michaelmas, by cause of tin 1 heat 
 of the year, and the sickness is much now increased as I hear, but seeing 
 how you keep your purpose I pray God send you good speed and my 
 prayers shall follow you whilst I live. I have sent my son Gilbert Coke
 
 114 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 to see you and my sister. If you have any occasion to take him along 
 with you do your pleasure and send him back by my brother George 
 that I may know by him how my sister and her children do there. My 
 son Gilbert would fain be in service and my allowance is but 10/. per 
 annum, and what his disposition is I have fully made known to you 
 above. If the sessions were not this week and our assizes the next, I 
 would have come to you myself, for I desire earnestly to see my sister 
 and your children, whom I pray God to bless, I think Michaelmas term 
 will force me to London about Mr. Harpur's troublesome business 
 wherein I find so much troubles, so great unkindnesses in all that family, 
 and so little hope to have my pains and care well thought of, that I 
 repent now that I ever meddled therein, and wish that I had left it to 
 the Court at first, for if any towards Sir John Harpui* in his lifetime 
 which now favour Mr. Lowe understand anything that might be ordered 
 by the committees concerning the ward they will not make that known 
 to them, but instantly run to the Court upon motion, have an order and 
 Mr. Lowe and his wife if he be at London puts the same in execution 
 never making it known either to Sir Peter Fretchville or myself, as they 
 did this term in removing him from Repton, we never knowing anything 
 until it was past, and the cause of his such removing a very trifle. I 
 have sent you one year's annuity herewith, the rest shall be sure, though 
 I be slow. 
 
 Now for my own business which I unfortunately entered into. 
 Mr. Lowe proceeds with his commission, and in the meantime hath 
 taken the ward from the school where he was under the best school- 
 master in these north parts of England and now keepeth him at Derby 
 where lie learneth nothing that is good. And though Sir Peter Fretch- 
 ville and myself have earnestly desired him to send him back to the 
 school yet will he not agree, and it is reported that he meaneth to take 
 him to London with him, and he offered him to the Duke before his 
 going to Spain but was refused. Peradventure my Lord Treasurer or 
 the Attorney of the Wards will arrest him. Good brother, I write this 
 to know if you have had means to learn whether there be any such 
 pretence or no, above (about ?) which I pray do inform yourself of, as you 
 may. 
 
 1623, July 18. Bewdley. Mr. Secretary Conway to John Coke, 
 Esquire, one of the Masters of Request to His Majesty. 
 
 Heriott a Scottishman arrived with a prize in Portland Roads ; during 
 his abode there he made a contract with a shipper of Dantzic for a ship 
 in the harbour. He came with 14 men to have carried her out but she 
 came on ground. The mayor and aldermen of Weymouth sent for them 
 to come on shore, but they went away in their boats. Ten of Heriott' s- 
 men, being all Englishmen, coming of shore were apprehended, they 
 said the prize was a Flemish ship which had committed piracy, and 
 that Heriott had a good commission from the Prince of Orange. The 
 mayor and aldermen pray directions touching these men under restraint 
 and the Dantzic ship ; and desire authority to set forth ships in warlike 
 manner to take pirates between the two headlands of Portland and 
 Aldams (Albans.) My Lords answered they saw no cause to detain 
 the Dantzic ship or the ten men : they thought fit you should propound 
 it to the Judge of the Admiralty and the Commissioners of the Navy to 
 advise what power may be given to the town in that kind. 
 
 1623, July 19, being the day of our removal from Hale Court. A 
 paper in the writing of Sir John Coke. 
 
 A note of monies to be received for me of sundry persons.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 145 
 
 A parcel of wood in Burslem Slade, to be sold at Marclec' or 8/. 
 Provisions to be sold and spent. 
 
 Fat sheep. Old and new wool. Wheat. Oats. White pease. Old wheat 
 for bread- corn. Muracorn, beans and barley. Barley to be baked with 
 wheat. Malt of barley for drink. Malt cf oats for drink. Cheeses. 
 Butter. Bacon. 
 
 Cattle left in stock. 
 
 Oxen, 12. Bullocks of 3 years, 4. Heifers of 2 years, 2. 
 
 Yearlings, 9. Calves, 7. Kyne, 12. Bull, 1. 
 
 Sheep, 32. Lambs, 15. Sows, 3. Store hogs, 9. Boars, 2. 
 
 Horses. 
 
 Great bay mare with a mare colt by her side. 
 Great trotting colt, made a gelding. Old chestnut mare. 
 Great black mare. Little sorrel mare. Black ambling mare. 
 Sorrel mare colt of a year old. 
 
 Household stuff, woollen, linen, &c. 
 
 Flock beds and bolsters, 4. Feather bolsters, 2. Coverlids of hair, 4. 
 Blankets, 4. Hurden sheets, 13 pair. Hempen board cloths, 2. 
 Hurden board cloths, 4. Hempen napkins, 6. Hurden napkins, 6. 
 Hempen towels, 3. Hurden towels or wipers, 6. 
 
 How the grounds are disposed. 
 
 Hero follow particulars of several fields by name at Hale Court and 
 Edenshall. 
 
 1623, July 22. " Randall's Examination " (as to Nutt, captain of a 
 man-of-war at Torbay, who desired to come in upon pardon.) 
 
 1623, July 23. The Commissioners of the Navy to Mr. Secretary 
 Conway. 
 
 As to victualling the fleet towards Spain, which had victuals for five 
 months of which three are already spent, and the two ships (Captain 
 Best's) in Scotland. 
 
 1623, July 23, in the Eoad of Leith. Captain Thomas Best to the 
 Commissioners of his Majesty's Navy at the house of Sir Thomas Smyth, 
 knight, in Philpot Lane in London. 
 
 T set sail for Aberdeen and came hither the 14th. I sent for the 
 captains of the Hollanders and delivered them His Majesty's pleasure 
 and commission to me. They all applauded and professed their 
 obedience. The 19th I got the Dunkirk ship out of the Haven, the 
 20th set sail for Leith. The Chief of the Hollanders showed me his 
 Commission firmed by Prince Maurice, that they, the two ships that had 
 been by the Dunkirk 28 weeks, should leave the Haven, and suffer her 
 peaceably to come to sea, and should not attempt against her during the 
 time that she should be under thee onvoy of His Majesty's ships ; but if 
 we should leave her they will take or sink her. 
 
 1623, July 24. Examinations of Sir John Elliot before Sir H. 
 Marten, Judge of the Admiralty Court, concerning his dealings with 
 Captain John Nutt at Torbay. 
 
 1623, July 26. Aboard H.M. ship Guardland, in the roads of Leith. 
 Captain Thomas Best to the Commissioners of the Navy. 
 
 At my coming to Aberdeen the Hollands Captains' showed respect to 
 the King's commands. We have arrived hero with .the Dunkirk ship. 
 U 24963. K
 
 146 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 The Hollanders attend her still, and if we leave her or she us will 
 assault her. I have now to certify that all the provisions, ordnance, &c. 
 are shipped into the Dunkirk ship, and we are ready to set sail for Dun- 
 kirk and thence to the Downs. We found here two men-of-war, of 
 which one is gone to sea, the other goes to sea with us. 
 
 1623, July 27. Bedford House. Francis Manners, Earl of Rutland, to 
 the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Asking that the Bonadventure now in Scotland may join the fleet 
 for Spain committed to his charge now in Stokes Bay. 
 
 1623, August 4. Thomas Alured to John Coke, Esq., one of the 
 Masters of Requests attending His Majesty. 
 
 Has taken a house in Blackfriars for 30/. a year. Offers it to Mr. 
 Coke. 
 
 1623, August 4. Preston. John Powell to John Coke, one of the 
 Masters of His Majesty's Court of Requests, at his house, being the 
 Gate house in St. John's, near Smithfield. 
 
 We were glad to hear of your safe coming to London with my daughter, 
 and your company. Reports progress of works at Hale Court. Ycur man 
 Walker sold your wheat at Hereford for 8 shillings a bushel, abating 
 one penny. John Roper is settled at your house, and I hope will be 
 careful of all businesses. I hope all matters of husbandry will be kept 
 in good order. And for the housewifery tell my daughter her mother 
 will take charge concerning the two hampers you appointed to be sent 
 up : no wain carrier purposeth to go till after harvest. 
 
 1623, August 4, on board H.M. ship Guardland, in the Downs. 
 Captain Thomas Best to the Commissioners of the Navy. 
 
 In coming from the North with the Dunkirk ship she ran some two 
 miles before us. The four Holland ships fired into her, and 
 killed her captain and others. She fell back, but the Holland 
 ships being better sailers kept at a distance of 4, 5, and 6 miles. The 
 contempt and great dishonour done to the King I leave to him and the 
 States. Gives the names of the Dutch ships and captains. Came to 
 the Downs first to land sick men from the Bonadventure. Will go to 
 Dunkirk or Wardich. On return will give account to the King of his 
 not sinking the Dutch ships. 
 
 1623, August 6. Salisbury. Mr. Secretary Conway to His Majesty's 
 Commissioners of the Navy. 
 
 His Majesty hath commanded me to signify to you the mislike and 
 displeasure he hath that the fleet for Spain seems to be so backward ; 
 either these ships were not furnished with fresh victual to spare their 
 seasoned and ship store, or that seasoned victual was not bespoken out 
 of other merchants' ships. Thames is never without those that may 
 spare as great a proportion of victual as will serve this present turn for 
 ready money which he disburseth to Sir Allen Apsley. Give me leave 
 to tell you that the King is earnest, for that he verily believes that the 
 Prince and the Infanta will be ready to come away before the fleet can 
 come thither to meet them. His Majesty calls upon you to see these 
 ships suddenly made ready, and that as you love the good of the Com- 
 monwealth and the lives of His Majesty and his sou send speedily to 
 Captain Best to stay in the Downs; the Bonadventure to be pre- 
 pared to go for Spain. 
 
 1623, August 6, aboard H.M. ship Guardland in the Downs. Cap- 
 tain Thomas Best to the Commissioners of Hi? Majesty's Navy at the 
 house of Sir Thomas Smyth, Knight, in Philpot Lane in London.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 147 
 
 The three great ships which shot the Dunkirker dogged us since in c ke Mss, 
 disgraceful manner, and anchored some three miles from us. I came 
 unto them, and bestowed on two of them some 20 or 25 shot. They are 
 gone to their Admiral to make their forces to 20 ships. They say 
 they will examine my Commission, and if I cannot show the King's 
 hand they will fight with us. If in your wisdom it seem good to you to 
 get His Majesty's hand it would make all fair which otherwise through 
 their rude ignorance may prove a foul business. 
 
 1623, August 10. Cranborne. Mr. Secretary Conway to the Com- 
 missioners of the Navy. 
 
 His Majesty's pleasure has been signified unto the Lord Treasurer for 
 the present furnishing of so much money as shall be requisite for the 
 provision of the Bonadventure with men and victual, his express 
 pleasure being that the Bonadventure shall go the voyage for Spain 
 according to the first designment. 
 
 1623, August 13. Chelsea. Lionel Cranfield, Earl of Middlesex, to 
 John Coke, Esquire, Master of Requests, at his house at St. John's 
 Gate beyond Smithfield. 
 
 My Lord of Rutland informs me that the petty warrants for victual- 
 ling the fleet appointed for Spain are out this day, so as if the company 
 should spend their sea provisions now they lie wind-bound they might 
 be driven to want at the end of the voyage. In respect whereof there 
 is a necessity of renewing their petty warrants for fresh victual. Let 
 me receive from you in the morning such estimate as the case requireth, 
 whereupon I may give order for money, which is my part of the care. 
 
 1623, August 15. The Downs. Captains T. Best and Edward Chrys- 
 tien to the Commissioners of the Navy, at Sir Thomas Smyth's house, 
 Philpot Lane. 
 
 The Dunkirker laden \i ith masts which should have been brought 
 into the Thames had consorted with a States man-of-war and stolen 
 away in the night. 
 
 1623, August 17. Beaulieu. Mr. Secretary Conway to John Coke, 
 Esquire, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 His Majesty gives good approbation of your proceedings, commends 
 your care, and doth most graciously cherish that diligence and good 
 affection which you show in all occasions of his. His Majesty is well 
 satisfied with the great expedition that hath been used in finishing the 
 Bonadventure and the course taken for the rest of the fleet. 1 take 
 pleasure in presenting to His Majesty such things as come from you in 
 regard of the good acceptance they find and no less in giving you account 
 what gracious testimonies His Majesty gives of your faith and diligence 
 and how happy you are in His Majesty's good opinion. 
 
 1623, August 19. Chatham. Henry Goddard to John Coke. State 
 of certain ships there. 
 
 1623, August 22. Beaulieu. Sir Edward Conway, Secretary of State, 
 to John Coke, one of the Masters of Requests. 
 
 Refers to an order for a ship to fetch horses from Spain, has orders 
 to write to Mr. Coke and the rest of the Commissioners of the Navy, 
 His Majesty's thanks if it be done, his reproof if it be not done, and his 
 commandment that it be done with all expedition. 
 
 1623, August 23. Chatham. Thomas Norreys to the Commissioners 
 of the Navy. The Adventure should be new rigged. 
 
 1623, August 23. Charles, Lord Stanhope, to Mr. Coke, one of the 
 Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 K 2
 
 148 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. I enclose a petition to be presented to His Majesty, and as to 
 
 furtherance thereof by word of mouth, for which your courtesy (the 
 grant once procured) I will give you 40 pieces. (Endorsed by Coke 
 " Hackney Coaches.") 
 
 1623, August 24. Chatham. Thomas Norreys to the Commissioners 
 of the Navy. 
 
 As to the munition of the Happy Entrance for Sir Richard Bingley. 
 
 1623, August 26. His House in Chiswick. Arthur Chichester, Lord 
 Belfast, to John Coke, Esquire, one of the Commissioners of His 
 Majesty's Navy and one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 I understand by this bearer, Captain Chudleigh, that he is called from 
 his intended journey into the Netherlands by the King's nomination of 
 him a Captain of a pinnace to be sent forth in search of a pirate upon 
 the coast. I wish he may be enabled by a ship and men and all other 
 necessaries to declare his ability as well as his zeal, towards which I 
 heartily pray you to farther, and assist him by the power you have in 
 the Navy. He is my kiusman. 
 
 1623, August 26. Beaulieu. Mr. Secretary Conway to John Coke, 
 Esquire, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty, at Brooke House 
 in Holborn. 
 
 I send you herewith a warrant signed by the King to the purposes 
 you required. You have I hope before this particular order concerning 
 Sir R. Bingley and the charge of the other ships. You may see your 
 endeavours and advice are precisely followed. I am not well in health. 
 
 1623, September 1. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to John Coke at the 
 Court. 
 
 Good Brother, The opportunity of this bearer's coming to you I can- 
 not omit and especially for that he hath entreated me to move you to 
 further him what you conveniently may in his petition that he hath to 
 exhibit to the King's Majesty by your means, which I pray you do for 
 him, as I doubt not but you will. I heard that my sister and you and 
 your children came safely to London and I hope you have bad all good 
 health since your coming up, which I would be glad to hear certainly. 
 
 1623, September 4. Deptford. William Burrell to John Coke. 
 
 Munition of the Desire 2 Minions and 6 Falcons. His cousin 
 Bullock's cause to be heard by the Commissioners and brought to an 
 end. 
 
 1623. September 5. Hackney. Foulke Grevyll, Lord Brooke, to 
 John Coke, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty at the Court. 
 
 The Duke's sickness is happily recovered, the heat of that sky con- 
 sidered. I hope to see him in health here. 
 
 1623, September 7. 1st Audience, Windsor. J. Coke's notes of 
 business to be heard and orders thereon. 1. Dr. Waterhouse v. Dr. 
 Richardson, Trinity College, Cambridge. 2. Sir Nicholas Halse. 3 
 John Strong, Paymaster of the Posts. 4. Lady Coningsby, her husband' 
 imprisoned. 5. Robert Rigden, Office of Coal Meter. 6. Dr. Bennett 
 and Arthur Burton, patent for saltpetres. 7. Lady Torbock v. Sir 
 Richard Molyneux. 8. Johu Dunning, protection against creditors. 
 
 9. John Morice, for grant of reversion of office of Clerk of the Ordnance. 
 
 10. Serjeant Grrimston, for grant of a forfeiture. Petitions for alms 
 rooms at Gloucester, Canterbury, and Winchester. Mayor and Alder- 
 men of Canterbury claim to have ever had Deputy Lieutenants of their 
 own Corporation. Joan Thomas, mother of Sir Anthony Thomas, 
 desires liberty to rectify her jointure at common law against Mr. Heriot.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 149 
 
 ] 623, September 8. London. Hild. Prusen to John Coke, Master of Coke mss. 
 His Majesty's Requests and one of the Commissioners of His Majesty's 
 Navy. 
 
 As to buying certain ships lading of masts for the King. Mr. Bur- 
 rell's dealings impugned. 
 
 1623, September 20. London. Sir Robert Heath, the King's Solicitor, 
 to John Coke, Master of Requests. 
 A patent to J. Liege for tobacco pipe. 
 
 1623, September 25. His house at Campden. Sir Baptist Hickes to 
 John Coke, one of his Majesty's Masters of Requests 
 
 I have procured the certificate. Mr. Forrester forgot he had a 
 certificate from the Bishop of Gloucester heretofore. What is set down 
 in the certificate is short of that it hath stood me ; in and my respect that 
 only I have herein is that ever (by God's grace) there shall be an honest 
 and learned preacher placed in the living. His Majesty loseth not any 
 thing in profit by the donation. 
 
 1623, October 1. Trinity College. Dr. John Richardson (Master) to 
 John Coke at his house at St. John's (London). 
 
 I was no little glad when T heard first of your preferment to this 
 place, whom I hoped to find a ready defender against all assaults of 
 mine enemies so far as should be infra sphaeram activitatis suse. Your 
 power in the Court and your love unto me in three hours space delivered 
 me from a most deep desperate Machiavellian practice which had been 
 these two or three years in hatching. This shameless spirit of Dr. 
 Waterhouse may be overcome, but can never be tamed. And now he 
 will to the King again, and this firebrand may by his importunity pro- 
 cure a new reference, certainly he will never give over as long as he 
 has in his purse white or yellow. 
 
 1623, October. Sir Thomas Levinge to Sir Francis Coke, Knight, 
 at his lodging in the Strand near Clement's Inn. 
 
 I pray you will be pleased to confer with your good brother herein 
 for a lease under the Duchy. About 22 of Queen Elizabeth my cousin 
 Jo. Milward, being the servant to Sir Ralph Sadlier, then Chancellor of 
 the Duchy, obtained a lease in one Mr. Stretton's name and caused a 
 great deal of money to be spent by the inhabitants, but in the end a 
 decree was had against that lease. I will give assurance for the pay- 
 ment of 100/. within three months next after the delivery of a grant 
 thereof under the Great Seal and the Duchy's seal. 
 
 1623, October 10. Deptford. Edward Boat to John Coke. 
 
 Has a letter from Portsmouth as to a barque brought in by Sir Wm. 
 St. John, it will be sold by proceedings under Admiralty Court, its 
 cargo of sugar is spoiling. Mr. Brooke desires place of Keeper of the 
 Stores at Portsmouth. 
 
 1623, October 14. Wm. Boswell to John Coke. 
 
 Mr. Green, an honest fair conditioned man, a very good philosopher 
 and logician, ready in the Latin, somewhat skilled in the Hebrew, besides 
 a reasonable good Grecian, and known by all to be a careful and 
 diligent tutor, recommended for Mr. Coke's sons at Cambridge. 
 
 1623, October 15. Hild. Wray to .John Coke, Master of His 
 Majesty's Requests, and one of the Commissioners for His Majesty's 
 Navy. 
 
 In the inquisition that was upon the Navy by the Lord of North- 
 ampton, there was an interrogatory ministered unto me wherein I was 
 to accuse myself. I opposed the same, alleging it was against the laws
 
 150 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. of God and the laws of this kingdom in matter of crime. This prevented 
 that none afterward was administered in that kind. 
 
 1623, October 17. John Coke to the Duke of Buckingham. 
 (Copy.) 
 
 A light for Goodwin Sands. The Dutch to contribute. Dungeness 
 light. Captain Nutt, a pirate, has procured a pardon ; yet his goods are 
 forfeited to the Lord Admiral. Injurious delay in judgment of the 
 Admiralty Court in the cases of Steuart's ship at Portsmouth and the 
 ship with the sugars taken by Sir W. St. John. 
 
 1623, October 17. Tower Street. Sir William Russell to John 
 Coke. 
 
 Has been to the Lord Treasurer for money to discharge the ships. 
 
 1623, October 25. Whitehall. Michael Oldisworth to John Coke, 
 Master of Requests. 
 
 As to a business of Dodmore Cotton, one of His Majesty's carvers. 
 
 1623, October 29. Dr. Tobias Waterhouse to John Coke, one of His 
 Majesty's Masters of Requests, at his house in St. John's. 
 
 The. bearer hereof delivered up a certificate under my hand and 
 others to (for ?) one Mr. Cotes. I pray you to command the redelivery 
 thereof, thus shall the poor young man ruined by an uncle save great 
 charges. As for my proceedings against Dr. Richardson, there is not 
 truth in that one only suggestion of his that the cause of Cudworth was 
 thrice heard and decreed to my loss and disgrace : by some means he 
 has obtained not to be examined, who is accused of 27 particulars ; he 
 flies the light because his works are evil. 
 
 1623, November 3. Thomas Argolle to John Coke. 
 Account of cordage at Woolwich made for the King. 
 
 1624, November o. Clifton. Margaret Bussy (sister) to John 
 Coke, at his house in Austin Friars, Broad Street, London. 
 
 ... I propounded a certain allowance to him [my son] for his 
 expenses till he may by you be thought capable of some good place 
 whereby he may help to lighten the charge I am at with him, which is 
 something burthernsome to me the more in regard his brother at Cam- 
 bridge hath long been so. He hath promised to keep himself within 
 the compass of his allowance, which I doubt not of Avhich is 20 nobles 
 per annum, and if it please you to let him have it of you when he shall 
 stand most need I will God willing send it you again ... I hope by 
 your love towards him I shall have comfort of him. . . . 
 
 Indorsement signed G. C. [George Coke.] 
 
 Mrs. Pigott of Abington in Cambridgeshire, widow, having bought 
 the wardship of her son, the question is, 1. Whether she hath also 
 bought the presentation of the parsonage. ... 2, If she hath not 
 bought it, then in whose gift it is if it fall in the time of the wardship. 
 These two points you may please to enquire of. 
 
 1623, November 12. Trinity College. Dr. John Richardson to 
 John Coke, one of His Majesty's Masters of Requests. 
 
 Your sons are at length arrived, welcomest to me that ever came to the 
 College. The College is full of good tutors both grave and learned and 
 the debauched company is almost all dispersed and vanished : it was that 
 company that conspired all my wrong for some restraint of themselves 
 and their acquaintances from their shameful haunting of the town to 
 the scandal of the College and the utter loss of their time. Your grow- 
 ing up in the grace of that all swaying peer putteth me in confidence.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 151 
 
 1623, November 13, in J. Coke's writing. Notes as to 
 
 1. Defective Light at Dungeness. 
 
 2. Defects in Victualling. 
 
 1623, November 18. Her Majesty's pinnace Desire riding in Dart- 
 mouth Harbour. Captain John Chudleigh to John Coke, Esquire, 
 Master of Requests to His Majesty, and one of the Commissioners 
 of His Majesty's Navy, at his house in St. John's near to Clerken- 
 well. 
 
 At my coming into Portland I met with a Flemish ship of 400 tons. 
 She would not strike without a shot. I willed them to send for their 
 captain their boat passing by me, I forced her to come aboard me : 
 now having possession of their boat and a dozen of their men I willed 
 them to come further into the bay. The Mayor of Weymouth certified 
 me what she had done. A Turkish man of war was mastered by the 
 Christian slaves and then taken by this Fleming who landed the 
 Christians on our shore. The Mayor of Weymouth detained the Cap- 
 tain, the prize is in the custody of Mr. Gilbert Raleigh, the goods are in 
 the Desire. The Fleming got ahead of me and sailed away eastward 
 without captain or commission. How shall I account of those letters 
 of marque from the French King? This pinnace is an ill sailer, and of 
 no force or countenance to command ships of the strength which many 
 of those piratical rogues have. Herriot hath 30 pieces of ordnance 
 and Hagerstone 20 pieces. Ships chased under forts to whom do they 
 belong ? Can States men-of-war make sales of Spanish goods on our 
 coasts ? Are the commissions of the freebooters lawful ? There are 
 multitudes of English in foreign service. 
 
 1623, November 23. James Bagg to John Coke. 
 Recommending persons to be in Commission at Plymouth. 
 
 1623, November . " Monies disbursed in the executing of the 
 
 Commission." 
 
 Monies expended and laid out by Matthew Brooke in the executing 
 of a Commission out of the High Court of Admiralty dated the of 
 
 November 1623, and directed to Anthony Ersfield, Esquire, Owen 
 Jennings, Vice Admiral, Christopher Harris, Captain of His Majesty's 
 pinnace the " Charles," William Towerson, Gent., and Matthew Brooke, 
 as followeth : 
 
 For the Commissioners' dinner, supper, fire, wine, beer, s. d. 
 and lodging at John Martin's at the Cowes, Tuesday 
 the 9th of December 1623, and for their two boatmen 
 and servants, as by bills under the said Martin's 
 hands it appeareth, &c. &c., &c. - - - 01 11 00 
 
 For diet, fire, wine, beer, and lodging at Yarmouth the 
 
 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th December, &c, Ac, &c. - 04 12 06 
 To nine sailors and labourers for hoisting out of the 
 24 chests of sugar out of the ship, landing them upon 
 the quay, helping them into a storehouse, unrigging 
 of the ship and bringing all the rigging on shore infcf- 
 a storehouse, &c, &c, &c. - - - - 00 12 00 
 
 Expenses at Newport and Portsmouth. 
 
 (Signed) Owen Jennings, Will. Towerson, Roger Towerson. 
 Matt. Brooke. 
 
 1623, December 6. [Portsmouth] Dock. Matthew Brooke to John 
 Coke, one of the Masters of the Court of Requests, anrt a Com- 
 missioner of His Majesty's Navy, at his house in Austin Friars. 
 
 Justifies himself against some imputation about the prices of sugars, 
 whites, muscavathers, and panuels, and appraisement of ships. 
 
 Coke MSS.
 
 152 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS 1623, December 8. Chatham. Henry Goddard to John Coke, one 
 
 of the Commissioners of the Navy. For a gratuity. 
 
 1623, December 17. Tirley [Preston]. John Powell (brother-in-law) 
 to John Coke, one of the Masters of His Majesty's Court of, Re- 
 quests. 
 
 I have two several messengers with me of late from Mr. Thomas 
 Bodnam to entreat me to acquaint you that he hath a purpose to 
 depart with some land near adjoining unto yours at Hale Court. ... he 
 determineth to sell the whorhouse, the greenhouse near unto it with 
 Devorax park, and the woods what part thereof may seem to your 
 Honour fittest, he is willing to accommodate unto you. . . . You shall 
 further understand that I am earnestly solicited by some friends of 
 Wm. Snead to make trial whether there might be any means made to 
 procure his pardon, for the which they offer 1 50/. I know in such a case 
 of this nature you are not willing to be moved yet if you will be pleased 
 to direct what course may be taken, or whether there be any hope to 
 procure it, both he and I shall ever rest bound unto you. 
 
 1623, December 17. Sir Richard Bingley to John Coke. 
 
 The victuals that came from Spain [are] such that his men ran 
 away. Asks by his purser that he may have of them one half and the 
 rest fresh. 
 
 1623, December 18. On board His Majesty's pinnace Desire, at 
 Dartmouth. Captain John Chudleigh to John Coke ; at York House, 
 in London. 
 
 As to his speedy return with this pinnace to the Harbour of 
 Portsmouth. 
 
 1623, December 24. The Downs. Sir Richard Bingley to John 
 Coke. 
 
 For the pay of his company. 
 
 1623, December 27. J. Coke to Captain Norreys. (Copy.) 
 Touching the survey of the ships and the better keeping of the 
 Accounts of Stores under particular heads at Chatham. 
 
 1623, December 27. Chatham. Sir Richard Bingley to John Coke. 
 As to a Lubeck ship derelict at Chatham for my Lord Admiral. 
 
 1623, December 29. Portsmouth Dock. Matthew Brooke to John 
 Coke. 
 
 As to conti'aband trade in sugars, oil, &c. 
 
 1623, December 29. Fareham. Captain Anthony Ersfield to John 
 Coke, one of the Masters of Requests. 
 
 As to proceedings of a Commission out of the Admiralty in the Isle of 
 Wight respecting foreign ships seized. I yielded to the selling of those 
 chests of sugar for the present relief of Capt. Bartell, the Dutchman. 
 Finding the goods in the ship of Bayonne (as some say of Passage in 
 Biscay) wasted and embezzled, I caused her to be brought to the Cowes. 
 The poor prisoners have been there ten months. 
 
 1623, December 30. Copy of a letter from the Lords of the Council 
 to the Lord Deputy of Ii'eland, about the information of Sir Charles 
 Coote against the Lord President of Connaught respecting the contract 
 for the defences of Athlone. We must clearly tell your Lordship that 
 we find very small probability in the information, and no cause at all 
 why the contract should be questioned, or the contractors should be 
 discouraged.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 153 
 
 1623, December 30. Sir Francis Coke to John Coke, Esquire, at his CoxsMSS. 
 house in the Austin Friars, London. 
 
 Good Brother, Although I have been seven months absent from my 
 own house within this year and this half (five of which months I have 
 been at London) only about Mr. Harpur the King's ward's occasions 
 and I do assure yoa 1 think no day hath passed over since Sir John 
 Harpur's death without troubled thoughts and vexation of mind about 
 these businesses, yet that which grieveth me most is that I see no end 
 of these troubles ; for notwithstanding that Mr. Lowe is dead and Sir 
 Peter Fretchville and I conceived that the educat : on and custody of the 
 body of the ward had belonged to us by his Majesty's grant under the 
 Great Seal, yet when we sent for him to Mrs. Lowe, she by the advice 
 of John Oliver servant to Sir John Harpur (when he lived) did deny to 
 deliver him and I know not upon what confidence she doth it, seeing 
 Sir John Harpur paid the whole composition money which was 1,500/. 
 and Mr. Lowe was never at any charge of one penny, yet now there is 
 a rumour spread abroad (hovv true I know not) that Mr. Lowe hath as- 
 signed his interest unto Sir Euball Thelwell and to John Oliver or one 
 of them, and his executors having a possession will deliver the ward ac- 
 cordingly to the assignees. I hope the Court hath not given their 
 consent to this assignment and then it is of no force. And (methinks) 
 it were most hard to take him from the committees trusted by Sir John 
 Harpur, who are willing to undertake the trust of this charge if they 
 may be suffered, and let him go to strangers that have no relation to 
 him either in name or blood or love, and it will be a great imputation to 
 us as unworthy men and also a tax to Sir John Harpur's discretion in 
 choosing us. Now I hear that Mrs Lowe, a most passionate woman as 
 liveth, will go shortly to London and meaneth to take the ward with her 
 which if she do (the ward being very tender and neshe) it will hazard 
 his health, and therefore 1 do heartily entreat you that by some means 
 you will make Sir Walter Pye acquainted herewith and desire that there 
 may be some order taken herein that neither the ward nor the com- 
 mittees trusted herein may be wronged, for I suppose it will be an example 
 of great consequence if she be suffered in this, and for my own part 
 whatsoever he shall think fit for me to do according to the trust I will 
 not fail to perform it to my best power. This must be presently done 
 before she go up. And if you will either use this bearer, my cousin 
 Bonnington, or Mr. Rowe, or your own man Mr. Thacker, 1 will be 
 thankful to him and I pray you let me hear from you concerning this 
 business. And so with my hearty commendations to you and my sister 
 I take leave and rest your assured loving brother. We have entreated 
 Mr. Rowe to search whether any order hath been made hereof in the 
 Court of Wards. I have made none acquainted that I write to you 
 hereof. 
 
 1623. Cambridge. Dr. John Richardson to John Coke, one of the 
 Masters of Requests at his house at St. John's. 
 
 You did me a very seasonable good turn when you stood in the 
 breach and stayed the Hood. 1 thank God for his gracious protection 
 from the wicked man who imagineth mischief in his heart and stirreth 
 up strife all the day long. I told my Lord Keeper of the practice and 
 desired a censure of the party in the Star Chamber for so cruel and 
 malicious a slander. You may send me the list of particulars by this 
 bearer Mr. Gooch, Fellow of our College, sealed up. 
 
 1623. Endorsed " Sir Nicholas Fortescue and bis servant Parker 
 aboard the ships " (10 that came from sea having victuals to be accounted 
 for at Chatham).
 
 154 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1623. London. Hugh Bullock to Mr. Coke, one of the Masters 
 of Requests to his Majesty. 
 
 As to accounts to be examined. I was too forward to confess two 
 
 judgments. I am forced to make my house my prison. I pray you 
 
 take into your good consideration the great expense I have been put to 
 in this suit these six years. 
 
 1623. A note of the several offices in Court which usually have 
 New Year's gifts from the Secretaries of State. 
 
 1623. Sir Francis Coke to John Coke, Esquire, at his house in the 
 Austin Friars. 
 
 Good Brother, I am forced to put my cousin Bonnington in suit 
 and the purchasers which have bought his lands at great under values. 
 His answers to my bill cannot but be very available to me for I know he 
 will speak truth upon his oath if he dare show himself in Court and 
 therefore I desire you to favour him in his suit for a protection until he 
 may have time to settle his estate and this may give him hope to recover 
 some reasonable proportion to live and to free me and other his good 
 and true friends from their engagements for him, otherwise I assure 
 myself both they and he will suffer loss. And thus leaving it to your 
 compassion of his estate 1 take leave. 
 
 (1623.) Draft by J. Coke of Instructions to the captains of two 
 vessels employed for the journey to Spain of the Prince and the Lord 
 Admiral. 
 
 About 1623. Indorsed : A view of the benefits which this kingdom 
 may receive by the trade to the East Indies (in a later hand " Very 
 curious and useful"). 
 
 The trade to the East Indies is a notable means to increase the 
 strength, stock, trade, and treasure of this kingdom. 
 
 The marginal notes are as follows : 
 
 A. All that great fleet of ships which now trade to the East Indies is 
 a clear addition to the kingdom's former strength when we used 
 not the trade. 
 
 B.*If the wares brought hither from the East Indies should yield but 
 three for one in the medium, then the merchant would be a loser 
 in respect of the long forbearance of his money, and his excessive 
 charges, yet still the kingdom hereby should be a very great 
 gainer. 
 
 C. Foreign commodities bought in remote countries cost the king- 
 
 dom a great deal less money than they do in the neighbour 
 nations. 
 
 D. Our commutations, which employ multitudes of the people are the 
 
 best distribution of the commonwealth, greatly preserving the 
 peace and happiness of the same. 
 
 E. Trade is increased and the kingdom enriched as well by foreign 
 
 wares brought in to transport to other nations as by the trans- 
 portation and vent of our own native commodities, for thus the 
 Low Countries, Venice, and other places have been marvellously 
 advanced. 
 
 F. 
 
 Remote traders to the Indies, if they be seconded by the seasons, 
 do both vent the native commodities, and also serve the kingdom 
 with foreign wares as fully as they could do if they wereverv 
 near unto us.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 155 
 
 G. We have no treasure but by the meaus of foreign trade. coke-MSS. 
 
 0+ I n the last seven years by increase of our trade we have sent 
 more money into the Indies than in former times by a double 
 proportion. Yet have we likewise sent wares thither which have 
 yielded half the value of that money. 
 II. J. There is no necessity that the Indian wares which we send 
 forth should be returned to us in foreign commodities more than 
 that our English wares which we export are not of value to pay 
 for the foreigu commodities which we bring in and consume. 
 K. To spend beyond ability will make both the public and the private 
 
 poor and beggarly. 
 L. If foreign trade go forward as it hath begun this last year the 
 Mint wiil have far greater employment hereafter than it hath 
 now, for when our English monies shall very shortly be brought 
 in, then the merchant of force must bring in for his return reals 
 of eight, and other foreign coins fit for the mint- 
 There was returned from the East Indies in Anno 1623 for the value 
 of 580,000/. in sundry sorts of commodities, amongst which a great 
 quantity of cloves, mace, and nutmegs, with which wares for many years 
 we have been served from the Low Countries. Holland cloth, Silesia 
 cloths, white fustians, cambric, and lawns we supply in great part from 
 the East Indies, with calicoes coarse and fine both for our own use and 
 to carry into other countries. 
 
 (Before 1624), July 27. Glasgow. The Duke of Lenox to the 
 Countess of Arundel. 
 
 Although that till now I have not remembered my service to you by 
 writ, yet my Lord of Arundel will bear witness that yourself (and one 
 other worthy friend) hath been often remembered ; but now he being 
 absent I will presume to do that by writ which we did often together, 
 and all I will say to your Ladyship is to beseech you to believe that I 
 am and will be ever yours according to my former professions, for 
 certainly you shall have more power to command me than you shall 
 have of any friend but still fewer complaints, although I am certain 
 you know it. already, yet I am glad to tell it you again that my Lord 
 your husband had a safe and speedy passage to Ireland, so that we 
 hope to see him again before we come to Carlisle. At Woodstock 
 many friends will meet, and I shall be glad to see it, although it shall 
 not be my foitune to see there my best and worthiest friend, yet there 
 shall be glad to see others enjoy that true content whereof I am barred, 
 and live still hoping and praying. I i ave wished often in this absence 
 that my worthiest friend and yourself might have bee!) as often together 
 as your husband and myself was, which I assure myself would have 
 distasted some sad houses with a kind of pleasing sadness. Your Ladv- 
 ship doth see how bold I am to trouble you with my imaginations ;it 
 is your own noble disposition hath given me this liberty before it 
 encourages me to continue, yet good manner bids me forbear to trouble 
 you further, save only in professing and ever avouching myself your 
 Ladyship's true loving respectest friend to serve you. 
 
 1623-4, January 3. Thomas Xorreys to John Coke, one of the 
 Masters of Requests to His Majesty and a Commissioner of His Navv 
 Royal at [his house in] the Austin Friars. 
 
 Sends certain accounts as directed. Expense of plank, timber and 
 deals. 
 
 1623-4, January 4. Sir John Osborne to John Coke, one of His 
 Majesty's Masters of Requests. 
 
 I am exceeding sorry your son's sickness continues. Not being able 
 to sleep methinks it should not argue the small-pox being not over
 
 15(5 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 heavy. Therefore I have made bold to send you some Pome Citron 
 made by [my] wife, whereof the syrup or meat is very good to provoke 
 kind sleep. But it is so cool that if there were any likelihood of the 
 poekes I would not have it given him. 
 
 1623-4, January 12. Aboard the Desire. Captain John Chudleigh 
 to John Coke, Master of Requests, and one of the Commissioners of His 
 Majesty's Navy at his house in Austin Friars. 
 
 I have received instructions for my removing into the Charles. 
 Describes chase of a Flemish freebooter or rather a piratical rogue, 
 had my ship sailed better I had overtaken her. Be pleased to be a 
 mean to Sir Allen Apsley for the charge I was at in the victualling our 
 company at Dartmouth. Also how I should dispose of those things 
 which I took out of the Flemish man-of-war. Thirdly to give poAver 
 to make choice of the men of both pinnaces for my company, and 
 minister and comfort the poor men with some pay. I remember you 
 told Mr. Secretary Conway I was Vice- Admiral of the Narrow Seas, 
 this would be an advancement of my pay. 
 
 1623-4. January 14. Portsmouth. Owen Jenens to John Coke. 
 As to offer to purchase a ship sold by commission out of the Admi 
 ralty. 
 
 1623-4. January 14. Whitehall. R. Willis to John Coke. 
 For a patent of privilege for Crump's water engine for mines, of 
 which he has a good opinion. 
 
 1623-4. January 15 Plymouth. James Bagge, junior, to John 
 Coke. 
 
 Commission for Sir John Elliot has been delivered. In Commission 
 for Oyer and Terminer at Exeter Mr. Bagge and his father should be 
 named. 
 
 1623-4. January 16. Nottingham. Mrs. Elizabeth Stapilton to 
 John Coke- 
 Petition for relief from an order to find sureties in her cause. 
 
 1623-4. January 19. London. Sir Miles Fleetwood to Mr. Coke, 
 one of the Masters of Requests at the Court at Newmarket. 
 
 Reminds Coke of his labour in the effecting of these instructions 
 for the Court of Wards, producing an increase of 20,000/. a year to the 
 King. Asks furtherance in his suit for employment. 
 
 1623-4. January 20. London. Mr. Hugh Bullock to John Coke. 
 
 Recommends that foreigners be made to pay for a light for every 
 voyage. 
 
 1623-4. January 23. Seething Lane, London. Sir John Wolsten- 
 holme to John Coke. 
 
 For renewal of a lease of His Majesty's Customs and discharge of 
 farmers under a former lease. 
 
 1623-4. January 22. Portsmouth Dock. Matthew Brooke to John 
 
 Coke. 
 
 As to a chapman for Stewards (Steuart's) ship at 300/. A Wey- 
 mouth man will procure one for the French ship. The sugars in the Isle 
 of Wight ready to be shipped. 
 
 1623-4. January 23. London. Pieter Rychaut and Noe du Fay a 
 Thomaso Stevenson. Scrivano della Nave S. Georgio Cap Tom Nelmes 
 in Genoa. 
 
 Ask to hear particulars of the voyage. Monies received for freight 
 to be paid to Sir Francisco Spinola of Genoa.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 157 
 
 1623-4. January 23. London. Pieter Rychaut a Thomaso Nelmes Cokb MSS. 
 capitano della Nave San Georgio in Genova. 
 
 Advises him to keep out of Spanish command. The Benjamin 
 and Peter and Andrew are less ships. The Spanish will not look 
 after them. I make account Spinola will send you only to the arches, 
 and if you go they cannot allow you less than 400/. sterling a month 
 for the ship, for she stands us in 300/. a month. 
 
 16234. January 23. The Downs. Sir Richard Bingley to John 
 Coke, Master of the Requests at the Court. 
 
 For His Majesty's especial service. Divers ships driven ashore by 
 tempest. One under Walmer Castle which he expects the Lord 
 Warden to challenge unless the Lord Admiral interferes. 
 
 1623-4, January 26. Aboard the Great Neptune riding at Harwich. 
 Captain Edward Gyles to J. Coke. 
 
 Expense of graving at Ipswich. Boats chased into harbour by 
 Dunkirkers. Ships sent to protect them. 
 
 [Endorsed with notes by Coke of business at the Council.] 
 
 1623-4, January 26. London. Valentine Carey, Bishop of Exeter, 
 to John Coke, one of the Masters of His Majesty's Court of Requests 
 at Court. 
 
 Salutem in Christo. I received a letter from Sir John Elliot out of 
 Cornwall this morning wherein he doth send me word that the Corpora- 
 tion of St. Germains my tenants in that country are willing to choose a 
 Burgess for the Parliament whom I shall nominate unto them. I have 
 therefore sent by packet this morning your name unto them. So that I 
 do assure myself that you shall be chosen by them. I am loath to desire 
 you to exhibit this enclosed petition to His Majesty. 
 
 1623-4, January 26. Aboard H.M's pinnace the Charles in Ports- 
 mouth Harbour, Captain John Chudleigh to J. Coke, Master of Re- 
 quests and one of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Captain Browne chased a Flemish ship on ground, forced the com- 
 pany on shore and brought the ship to Yarmouth and made sale of 
 much of the corn in her contrary to my Lord of Southampton's com- 
 mands. ] went with the Charles and carried the man of war and 
 also the ship of corn to the Cowes. My Lord of Southampton thought 
 I should go with the man of war into Portsmouth ; the merchant doth 
 think of taking his ship to Amsterdam. Of the hundred men belonging 
 to the man of war I have made stay of thirty, the others are about the 
 Isle of Wight. Asks directions and that this service will be well taken 
 by his Grace. 
 
 1623-4, January 26. Cornwall. Arthur Harris to John Coke [at 
 the house of the Lord Bishop of Exeter in Drury Lane]. 
 
 Trust of advowsou of Cheriton Fitzpaine to present the Bishop of 
 Exeter. 
 
 1623-4, January 27. Portsmouth. Matthew Brook to John Coke. 
 As to sugars in the Isle of Wight, recommends that a sale of Steward's 
 (Steuart's) ship to a foreigner be allowed. 
 
 16231, January 28. London. Gilbert Ward to John Coke, Esquire, 
 one of the Masters of the Requests. 
 
 Since Sir Francis Coke's letter concerning Mr. Harpur the ward, the 
 Court hath been moved that the Committees might have the custody of 
 him according to his Majesty's grant to them made, and Mr. Attorney 
 sequestered him into the Usher's hands until further order ; but privately 
 assured me that according to Sir Frauds' desire he should be sent to
 
 158 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 your house in respect of his knowledge of your worth and Mrs. Coke's 
 with whom he is well acquainted. Please to write to Mr. Attorney of 
 the Wards of your willingness and desire thereof. Mrs. Lowe the 
 widow labours by petition to my Lord Treasurer otherways to dispose 
 him. 
 
 [Endorsed with Mr. Coke's reply.] 
 
 I received a letter from my brother from Swarston to the same effect 
 you now write and thereupon had resolved to take charge of Mr. Harpur 
 for the time he desired if God had not laid his hand upon my house. 
 For having two sons at Cambridge we sent for them to keep Christmas 
 with us and not many days after their coming my eldest son Joseph 
 fell suddenly into the sickness of the time, which they call the spotted 
 fever and which after two days extremity took away his life. The 
 affliction we suffer, I by the breaking of the very staff of my age and 
 my wife in her motherly affection, being also great with child, so as in 
 this case I should wrong her very much if I should lay upon her any 
 further charge. Specially considering the state of this young gentle- 
 man's body which my brother at his last being here did fully acquaint 
 me with, and what the change of air and manner of life may work in 
 him God only knoweth, and if in my house ought but well should befal 
 him it would certainly prove a great danger to my wife, a great dis- 
 traction to me in a time of much employment, and my brother would 
 also suffer therein as well as we. By my necessary absence at Court I 
 have not means to comfort my family nor to support a woman that is 
 very sensible of her loss. I have written to Mr. Attorney to offer to 
 find a fit place for the ward till my brother may have time to settle him 
 elsewhere to his content. 
 
 1623-4, January 28. 2nd Audience, at Newmarket. J. Coke's 
 notes of business. 
 
 1. Sir Wm. Throgmorton, Iron mines, waste. 2. Earl of Somerset 
 and Sir Thomas Shirley. 4. Edward Egerton claims against Sir Row- 
 laud for lands decreed corruptly by the Lord St. Albans. 5. Bishop of 
 Exeter for presentation to Rectory of Tallaton, Devon. 6. Countess of 
 Berkshire for administration of her husband's goods. 6. Sir William 
 Garraway and Sir Nicholas Salter for His Majesty's pardon and restitu- 
 tion of bonds for payment of rent of 140,000 for the great farm of 
 Customs. 7. Privy Seal for breams, tenches, and carps to store Theo- 
 balds pools. 9. Earl of Desmond and Lord Wilmot, lands in Ireland. 
 1 1. David Dorman for the sole examining and licensing of foreign news 
 to be printed by the Stationer. 15. Grant to Patrick Cumin of fine of 
 2,000 set upon the grandfather of the Earl of Lincoln in the Star 
 Chamber. 16, 17, 18, and 19. Applications by footmen and a litterman 
 of the King for grants of forfeitures. 21. Privy Seal of 120 imprest 
 to carry cormorants into Poland. Richard Smart and Rosamond 
 Williams for a pardon for penance for adultery. Henry Grove and Helen 
 Smith for the like, at the suit of the Prince's Equerry. John Williams 
 and Marie his wife for pardon, he having married his nephew's widow. 
 Applications for Almsrooms at Winchester, Thornton College, and 
 Christchurch in Oxford. 
 
 1623-4, January 28. Portsmouth. Captain John Chudleigh to John 
 Coke. 
 
 Further as to the man-of-war and ship in his letter of January 26. 
 
 1623-4, January 30. Newmarket. Dr. William Low to Richard 
 Avery (his servant) at Trinity College in Cambridge. 
 
 There may be occasion offered unto you to attend upon the Master 
 of Requests his son, John Coke, pupil unto Mr. Greene. I have
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 159 
 
 engaged myself unto the young gents father that you will not be Coeb MSS. 
 
 wanting in any respect. I commit you to G-od's saving mercy in 
 
 Christ. 
 
 1623-4, February 3. Newmarket. John Coke to Mistress Marie 
 Coke. 
 
 Dear Wife, Yesterday I writ unto you by Captain Chudleigh's servant 
 and hope he hath safely delivered my letter. Now I must entreat you 
 to send my cousin Bussie with this inclosed letter to Mr. Giles' chamber 
 in Clifford's Inn by St. Dunstan's over against the Inner Temple ; or 
 else to his lodging at a sadler's house in the corner of the entrance of 
 the lane that goeth out of Fleet Street into Salisbury Court. If Mr. 
 Ward be not in town then the letter may be kept till I come home. It 
 concerneth my brother's business about Mr. Harpur and the speedy 
 delivery thereof may import him very much. The other to my Lord 
 Brooke I pray you send with like speed and let John your son cai-ry it 
 if so you think fit, whom cousin Bussie may accompany and Mr. Vyner 
 may bring him to my Lord .... 
 
 1623-4, February 3. The Poultry Compter, W. Woodcock to his 
 Brother in law J. Coke. 
 
 Being a prisoner at the suit of William Price complains of the hard 
 usage of himself and his wife and children. 
 
 Opinion of Ralph Wilbraham who advises him to petition the Lord 
 Keeper or the Master of Rolls. 
 
 1623-4, February 6. 3rd Audience at Royston. Notes by J. 
 Coke. 
 
 1. Sir Edward Villiers, pension of 500 for surrender of lease of 4c?. 
 upon every pound of gold and silver thread. 2. Mr. Thomas Wilbra- 
 ham for wardship of eldest son of Mr. Pierce Leigh deceased who was 
 heir to Sir Peter Leigh of Lyme. 7. Richard Isaac and B. Johnson 
 for a patent of privilege to make tarras and hone stones of English 
 materials after their own invention. 9. Alexander Cheesman, musician, 
 for forfeitures. 10. Mr. David Drummoud for relief upon an order 
 for payment of a debt due unto him from Sir John Kennedy. 12 and 
 13. Daniel Price and Dr. Richardson, King's Chaplain, claim a Resi- 
 dentiaryship in Hereford. 16. George Williamson the 20th son of 
 Henry, for 40 denizens in reward of his father's service at Falkland. 
 19. John Smith and Marie his wife (His Majesty's shoemaker) in lieu 
 of 2000 debt crave reversion al leases. 22. Anne Ingram, widow of 
 H. Ingram, one of the pastry, castaway on the water going to Green- 
 wich, for a scholar's place in Eton College for her son whom his father, 
 his Majesty's servant for 30 years, hath brought up to his books. 
 
 1623-4, February 9. Chatham. Henry Goddard to Mr. Coke one of 
 the Masters of Requests and Commissioner of His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 The Assurance not well repaired. Nonsuch to be docked. Abuses 
 in stores of cordage. 
 
 1623-4, February 10. His house near the Doctors Commons. Doctor 
 F. Ryves to J. Coke, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 Notwithstanding the signification of the King's pleasure he (not named) 
 still pcrsisteth in usurping the place and name of the King's Advocate in 
 that Court, whereof no doubt I could complain unto His Majesty but that 
 he is a Parliament man and therefore no meddling with him at this pre- 
 sent in that kind. 1 have herewith sent you five pieces as a remem- 
 brance of my thankfulness.
 
 160 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokb MSS. 1623-4, February 11. Plymouth. James Bagge to John Coke. 
 
 Asks that if a war fall out with Spain he may be appointed Receiver 
 of the tenths of all reprisals for Devon and Cornwall. 
 
 1623-4, February 14. Rochester. John Rockwell to John Coke. 
 As to stolen cordage of His Majesty recovered by him. 
 
 1623-4, February 23. Milford. Sir Thomas Button to His Grace the 
 Duke of Buckingham Lord High Admiral of England. 
 
 Before letters came to stay Captain Hewitt he had been discharged 
 and left the coast. I never received complaint of any wrong that he 
 had done. I was also required to repair to Dublin to receive the body 
 of one Sallanow, a French pirate, to convoy to Bristol and so for Lon- 
 don. Northerly winds forced me to Milford. I propose to hasten to 
 Dublin. 
 
 1623-4, March 2. Portsmouth. Captain John Chudleigh to John 
 Coke. 
 
 His ship's company have fish for provision but their pay is not yet 
 come. Men of war commit insolences on the coast. Capt. Browne 
 hath taken two Flemish ships. 
 
 1623-4, March 8. Ledbury. Doctor John Hoskyns to John Coke, 
 one of His Majesty's Masters of Requests at the Lord Brooke's house 
 in the Austin Friars in Loudon. 
 
 My brother serjeant sent unto you to move His Majesty that the 
 members of our Hereford Church might have a free election of a 
 Lecturer, because I had good reason to think their voices would fall on 
 me. The means which have been used for another betray might and 
 violence. I had much rather amend my means in another pastoral 
 charge, and so end my days, than hang upon any Cathedral. I am 
 willing to make a journey and wish I were the prince his chaplain. 
 
 1623-4, March 10. London. Emanuel Downi ngto John Coke, Esquire. 
 
 The merchants pleading antiquity caused me send your worship the 
 order of their first institution. The Company of Staplers began about 
 400 years past, tempore Edw. 3. The main cause of their first institu- 
 tion was to see the Customs duly paid and lest they should monopolize 
 trade as now they do there are divers good laws to prevent them and to 
 establish free trade. The merchant adventurers began in the time of 
 Henry 4 th . From time to time as they renewed their grants they 
 encroached upon the liberties of free trade. In the 22 nd year of Henry 7, 
 complaint was made against these companies, when liberty of free trade 
 was granted paying a small fine. 40 or 50 of the 3 or 400 of them now 
 manage the whole trade. Our mariners groan under this burthen for 
 that none or few of them are free of their companies. 
 
 1623-4, March 15. Indorsed by Coke, "Sir Thomas Smith," to 
 which is added by another " his petition answered by Sir Ralph Free- 
 man." 
 
 Petition to the King of Sir Thomas Smith that the business of his 
 claim for money in the hands of the East India Company be referred 
 to merchants. 
 
 Reference to Sir Humphrey Hamford. Mr. Alderman Rob. John- 
 son, Mr. Bateman, Mr. Beli, Mr. Stroud, and Mr. Anthony Abdy. 
 
 Signed Ra. Freman. 
 
 1623-4, March 19. London. Pieter Rychaut a Tomaso Nelmes Cap uo 
 della Nave S. Georgio in Genova. 
 
 F. Spinola advises me of your arrival at Genoa, and that the ship is 
 liked extraordinary well of everybody. I hear you shall have made a
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 161 
 
 voyage from Tabarea and be ready for another. One to Alicante you Cokb MSS. 
 may undertake. Cartagena in my opinion is a place too difficult to 
 
 undertake, the Spanish Armada comes in there sometimes. The 
 parliament continues yet in difference between war and peace. 
 
 1623-4, March 22. Chatham. Henry Goddard to John Coke. 
 
 Being a member of the incorporation of collection monies for 
 maimed and hurt men advises as to the numbers of officers and others 
 therein. 
 
 1623-4, March. Question in Parliament (which met 29th February 
 162|) touching 3 subsidies and 3 fifteenths to be voted conditionally on 
 the King previously declaring himself against the Treaties with Spain 
 for the marriage and concerning the Palatinate : stating that a selected 
 Committee was appointed this afternoon to meet and set down a frame 
 of that which should be communicated to the Lords and then presented 
 to his Majesty by a General Committee of both Houses. 
 
 1624, March 26. Sir John Osborne to John Coke, one of the 
 Masters of the Requests. 
 
 Things tending now to that which English courages have so long 
 desired, it does me'good to see hearts up in every breast and thronging 
 still to be with the foremost. Among whom I have a second son so in 
 love with sea service as he importunes me continually, though he 
 knows I have missed one son in the Queen of Bohemia's service who 
 in the journey to the Low Countries lost his life. My suit is that it 
 would please you to recommend him to the Duke's Grace. 
 
 1624, April. Wolfgangus Appiarius cum collega ex superioribus 
 Palatinatus finibus exules ad clarissimum viruin Johannem Coke. 
 
 Electoralem Palatinatum aliasque vicinas provincias incendiis aliis- 
 que devastationibus in cineres favillasque reductas esse et tuae Dignitati 
 et toti orbi liquido constat. Ego indignus divini minister sedibus ac 
 aedibus fugatus te charitatis officio mihi praestando hesterna oretenus 
 hodie scriptis efflagito in spem vocatus Dign: tuatn ne vestes meas 
 vendere cogar quantulocunque munusculo prospecturain. 
 
 1624. April 5. Chatham. Henry Goddard to Mr. Coke, one of the 
 Masters of Bequests and Commissioner of the Navy, at his house in St. 
 Austin Friars. 
 
 Mr. Rock's painting of the Destiny is marvellously well done, yet 
 he complains that Mr. Burrell aims at his undoing to make him leave 
 the King's service. Urges reducing of all business from the old dock to 
 the new. To save repairs of old wharfs George and Primrose to 
 be fitted for Dromblers. The plotters of the new government in the 
 Incorporation of the Chest had a mind to leave out the ordinary Car- 
 penters by which they shall receive a gross and apparent wrong. 
 
 1624. April 5. Marcle. John Kyrle to John Coke, Esquire, one of 
 His Majesty's Masters of Requests. 
 
 My nephew Nurse, a Barrister of Grays Inn, for his recreation repaired 
 into the country where for a vacation diet with his own sister he is by 
 her husband unkindly sued, who having before the Council in the 
 Marches received reprehension and loss hath attempted to bring it to 
 hearing before you. 
 
 [Endorsed with draft by Coke of a recommendation (by the Com- 
 missioners of the Navy ?) for payment of the pension of Mr. Wells. Sir 
 W. Russell having consented to disburse the money.] 
 
 U 24963. L
 
 162 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. 1624. James Mayo's account with John Coke : 
 
 For a bedstead and cord - 
 
 a pair of andirons and a bellows ... 
 
 a cradle for Dorothy [Sir John's infant daughter] 
 
 a box for Dorothy - 
 
 a coffin for Peter - 
 
 a lemon .-_..,_ 
 
 To the bearers for carrying Peter to the church 
 For a loin of veal, a neck of veal, a breast of mutton 
 
 a pottall of Epacrost [Hypocras ?] at Dorothy's christening 
 To the comfit maker at the christening - 
 
 the porter at the christening .... 
 For a quart of claret wine - 
 
 three ounces of syrop of violets for my wife 
 For my wife's funeral. 
 
 a rich coffin for my wife .... 
 
 To the searchers at my wife's death - - - - 
 
 For rosin ------- 
 
 two dozen of torches (wife's funeral) ... 
 
 a pound of wax lights - - - ~ 
 
 nine gallons of wine sack - 
 
 j, eight pounds of sugar - - - _ - 
 
 six pounds of biscake - 
 To the eight bearers - 
 
 the porter for going to Holloway ... 
 
 For a leg and a neck of veal .... 
 
 mending the foot cloth - - - - - 
 
 To the nurse for fortnight ----- 
 
 23 April. Paid to Peter Crew, Cleik of St. Peter the Poor. 
 
 For the parson's duties for Lady day quarter 
 the clerks wages that quarter .... 
 ,, eight communicants ..... 
 
 Paid more to the minister for preaching at the baptizing of 
 my daughter Dorothy ..... 
 
 For two unlaced bands and cuffs bought at the Exchange - 
 
 1624. May 10. John Coke to the Lord Brooke, one of His Majesty's 
 most honourable Privy Council. (Copy.) 
 
 The KiDg after supper went to London to visit the Duke with whom 
 he tarried shut up with the Prince the better part of three hours. He 
 sent his barber Smithsby to attend the Duke. His fever is now inter- 
 mittent. What to hope I know not, but am loth to fear the worst. 
 The Lord Treasurer's cause hath been roughly followed all this day. 
 The Spanish Ambassadors are not yet departed. Count Mansfeld was 
 honourably entertained in France with 200 brave gentlemen. We think 
 his employment hath relation to the Valteline. Sir Isaac Wake is dis- 
 patched, Sir Robert Anstruther and my Lord of Carlisle are yet here. 
 No order is taken to give the King of Denmark satisfaction for his 
 principal and interest. The Eastland merchants who were ready with 
 their shipping to carry 7,000 cloths into the Sound are at a stand. The 
 Prince and Lords intend wholly the parliament business where this day 
 the Lord Treasurer carried himself with more moderation or rather 
 dejection. The privy seal for the 12 ships is not yet signed by the 
 King. 
 
 
 
 s. 
 
 d. 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 16 
 
 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 19 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 0- 
 
 14 
 
 G 
 
 
 
 s. 
 
 d. 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 

 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION, 163 
 
 1624, May 15. Warwick Castle. Fulke Grevyll Lord Brooke to John Coke MSS. 
 Coke, Esquire, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 I thank you for your particular and very material advertisement. Be 
 pleased to write by this carrier once more before my return : then 
 shortly after (God willing) I purpose to hasten up. 
 
 1624, May 18 (also June 25). Aboard the Charles in Fowey 
 Harbour, Captain John Chudleigh to John Coke, Master of Requests 
 and one of the Commissioners of Her Majesty's Navy. 
 
 His encounter with a Flemish man-of-war. Mr. Bassett took 20 
 chests of sugar to procure the pardon of the freebooters. 
 
 1624, May 19. Greenwich. John Coke to Lord Brooke. 
 
 Particulars of my Lord Duke's illness. His Majesty hath shewn 
 great tenderness over him and sendeth unto him three or four times 
 every day. Yesterday he sent him cherries, this day the eyes, the 
 tongue, and the dousets of the deer he killed in Eltham Park. The 4 
 ships of Dunkirk are safely guarded by the Admiral of Zeeland. Sir 
 Richard Bingley sheweth me a letter from the Downs that the Hollanders 
 sent him word that they would assail the Dunkirkers and forthwith 
 weighed anchor, but when the King's ship did the like and sent them 
 word that they would take such part as the Dunkirkers had they came 
 again to anchor. My Lord of Bristol continueth under the same 
 restraint in his house. 
 
 1624, May 20. Westminster, R. Willis to his Cousin J. Coke, Esq., 
 Master of the Requests now attending His Majesty. 
 
 Turnioiled with caring for my careless and wilful Lord. Water baili- 
 wick of Severn little use of any such office but to keep the fishermen 
 in order that is (according to the abuse of these times) to make them 
 tributary to him & then let them do as they list. 
 
 1624, May 24. Peter Gleane to Mr. Coke, Master of Requests. 
 
 I have been bound to employ you in a petition by the Mayor & 
 Aldermen of Norwich for the limitation of players in that city. Not so 
 few as 100,000 poor creatures do live and breathe by means of our 
 manufactures. The innovations mentioned in the petition have been an 
 exceeding great disabling to the City. All which I doubt not will pro- 
 cure from His Majesty if not an absolute power to temper them according 
 to discretion yet at least a limitation to be tolerated only at fit times in 
 the year but not in those five months mentioned in the petition. 
 
 1624, May 28. Francis Manners, Earl of Rutland, to Mr. Coke, 
 one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 William Rouse lieth condemned for an offence, in compassion of his 
 poor wife and children by my means reprieved. My request is that you 
 will further his petition for his pardon or banishment (pardon granted. 
 Notes of 3rd audience June 2). 
 
 1G24, May. Chatham. Edward Boate to John Coke. 
 Asks appointment of a clerk of out stores at Chatham, as at Deptford 
 and Woolwich. 
 
 1624, June 2. 3rd Audience at Theobalds. Notes of business by J. 
 Coke. 
 
 Sir W. Russell collector in port of London of impositions on silks, 
 cambrics, lawns &c. Tenants of St. Mary's near York for confirma- 
 tion of charter. Dean & Chapter of Sarum as to tithes of land dis- 
 afforested. Inhabitants of lower half huudred of Bewsborough in Kent 
 to be incorporated. Sir John Wishart & Edw: Sydenham for 800 acres 
 of Marsh land in Gloucestershire. Thomas Vyner for reversion of 
 
 l 2
 
 164 .HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. Comptrollership of the Mint. Richard Willis to be proihonotary in 
 Carmarthen, Pembroke, and Cardigan. Messengers of Chamber to be 
 put in bill of pardons for subsidy. Gabriel More the Duke's Chaplain 
 for a presentation to the Rectory of Ingoldsby, Lincoln. Mr. Treswell 
 for fee farm of Buckholt. Alexander Foster to be lessee of profits of 
 the Court of Soham in Cambridgeshire. Thomas Pott for lease in re- 
 version of Beaumont Grange (Duchy Land) and of the keeping of 
 Kirby Park in Lincolnshire. Aquila Hucks, keeper of the Gatehouse, 
 repayment for keeping prisoners. Ambrose Mason for 40, for service 
 as yeoman pricker. Sir Adrien Hogant for 2100 due for service in 
 the Palatinate. William Rowse for pardon (granted). Thomas Morley 
 for remission of his fine set in parliament. William Dingley for a re- 
 ference to the Archbishop and Delegates to restore his wife unto him. 
 taken away by Sir Thomas Russell. Edward Stapleton v. Lady 
 Burroughs. Henry Sinedale to prosecute recusants so as he may have 
 half the King's moiety. Clothworkers and Dyers for execution of Act 
 of 8 Elizabeth for transporting every tenth cloth dyed and dressed, 
 Sir Charles Gerard to sell to the City of Bristol moiety of Priory. City of 
 Bristol to have the Castle brought to be part of their County. Mr. 
 Maxwell's servant for 20 denizens. Alexander Stevenson for lease of 
 the fines &c. at Assizes and Sessions in Northumberland. Nicholas 
 Cockein, His Majesty's servant for forfeited goods of Lancelot Walton. 
 Thomas Ellis, Glover, for creation of a Knight. Earl of Ormonde's 
 daughters for relief. Michael Allport for admission of his son into the 
 Charterhouse. To be signed, Licence to the Archbishop of York to 
 consecrate the Chapel of Midgley ; Mr. Barrett's warrant to take yearly 
 40 brace of partridges in the bushlands of Sussex to store Nonsuch 
 fields ; Brian McConnell, the prince's footman, for the fine to be imposed 
 upon Simon Warren informed against for usury. 
 
 1624, June 6. St. Martins Lane. Sir John Wishart to John 
 Coke. Asks return of his petition. 
 
 1624, June 8. Greenwich. Secretary Sir Edward Conway to John 
 Coke, one of the Masters of Requests. 
 
 Give me knowledge when the ship is ready to transport the Ambassa- 
 dors they hasten their departure. The Lord Deputy presses that the 
 Phoenix in port of Bristol be despatched for coast of Ireland. Heriott 
 and his company and ship are in safe custody at Kinsale to be brought 
 over. 
 
 1624, June 14. John Coke to His Grace the Lord Duke of Bucking- 
 ham, Lord High Admiral of England. 
 
 The answer you required me to draw to the Spanish libel against you 
 was ready long since only the greater duty I owe to your health made 
 me forbear your trouble. I have received a letter written to your Grace 
 by some of the Council of War and therewith certain articles for an exact 
 account to be given them of all particulars concerning the Navy. I 
 must first inform you they usurp upon your office and put the King's 
 service out of course. Special commission under the King's hand and great 
 aeal is not yet given to this Council of War, neither have they by the Act of 
 Parliament any such trust. The duty and trust of the Council of War is to 
 advise the King, only by proposition. As for examination, provision and 
 execution, they are peculiarly yours and every other great officer's in 
 their own orbs. And to this you must reduce them if you will not come 
 under their lee and in this course we shall be ready upon warrant under 
 your Grace's hand to give to you all the particular and exact informa- 
 tion which these Councillors desire. Are they fit judges whom we have
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 165 
 
 discovered to be the authors of the corruptions of former times and from Coke mss. 
 whom there never yet came proposition which tended not to the pro- 
 fusion of His Majesty's treasure or innovation in His service. 
 
 1624, June 22. Naples. Giles Coulthey to Giles Coulthey. 
 
 The St. George sold by Ricord (Richaut). All women that have 
 husbands in the St. George advised to complain against Ricord for 
 betraying the ship which was sold (for 20,000 ducats) before her coming 
 out of the Thames, as appeareth by letters out of Spain. 
 
 With a translation of the Viceroy of Naples (Duke de Alva) his letter 
 to Don Carlos Colouna concerning the sequestration of an English ship 
 St. George, Thomas Nelmes, Captain, in Naples to be sent to Lisbon. 
 The Captain and the mariners may be gone, leaving the ship with the 
 cables, sails, artillery and munitions. When the ship shall be ready to be 
 sent to Lisbon I will give your Lordship an account. 
 
 1624, June 25. Aboard the Charles in the Sound of Plymouth. 
 Captain John Chudleigh to John Coke, Master of Requests and one 
 of the Commissioners of Navy. 
 
 As to his fight with a Flemish freebooter and his prize and Mr. 
 Bassett's course therein. If I would be corrupt I am not without temp- 
 tation even in his business, but I will not be found false nor lose my 
 reputation, for gain. I desire you to make use of what I write and of 
 the notes inclosed in the proceedings of the Court, so as they may be most 
 for the King's honour. I have sent a letter to Sir Henry Marten. 
 
 1624, July 1. Deptford. Henry Edisbury to John Coke. 
 As to the Treasurer's disbursements for the 12 ships. 5.000 received 
 by Sir W. Russell. 
 
 1624, July 2. London. Pieter Rychaut a Tomaso Nelmes Capita no 
 della nave San Georgio in Genova. 
 
 He cannot prevent slanderous speeches. To take heed of the Spaniards. 
 To get lading at Zante for England or Amsterdam. Rather than come 
 in danger to come away empty and break all charter parties. His 
 difference with the Spanish Ambassador about sequestration of monies 
 and for ordnance. To give out that he goes to San Lucar or Cadiz, 
 
 1624, July 3 George (Monteigne or Mountain), Bishop of London, 
 to Mr. Coke, Master of Requests to His most Excellent Majesty. 
 
 Salutem in Christo. I have spoke with Mr. Sub Almoner who hath 
 promised me to give the living over to your brother as soon as he shall 
 reeeive another as good for it. Now the man I told you on (his name 
 is Mr. Marbury) is not yet dead but believe me on the word of a Bishop 
 there shall no living pass before your brother be satisfied, x Keep 
 this letter as an assurance of my performance. 
 
 1624, July 8. Chatham. Thomas Norreys to John Coke. 
 
 The Guardland ready to be sent to the narrow seas in place of the 
 Entrance. Victuals and munition not sent. The dock charge may be 
 eased by taking plank from the galleys to make wharfs. 
 
 1624, July 9. Chatham. Thomas Norreys to John Coke. 
 How to distinguish the charge of the 12 ships. 
 
 1624, July 8. Portsmouth. Matthew Brooke to John Coke. 
 Newfoundland fish and train oil to be sold, or it will perish. 
 
 1624, July 9. The Fleet Prison. W. Woodcock to his Brother in law 
 John Coke, Master of the Requests. 
 
 My son was with me every day in the Fleet whilst he stayed in the 
 town and offered me agreement that I should have twenty nobles a year
 
 166 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 to the longer liver of me and my wife and to have our diet with my son 
 and I to have a horse found me to ride of and a maid to attend my wife 
 during our lives and he to discharge the charges in prison that I have 
 been at and certain debts that Francis my son should a paid. But first 
 my son William wrote me here to seal a general release to him. My 
 son hath no good meaning that I shall be loosed but continue me still in 
 prison. I do wholly defer myself unto your wisdom. 
 
 1624, July 10. Edmonton. Thomas Alured to John Coke. 
 Fears if he interfere his credit with the Lord Keeper may be in 
 question. 
 
 1624, July 14. Theobalds. Thomas Aylesbury to John Coke. 
 I have procured from my Lord order for the supply of the ships. 
 
 1624, July 20. Chatham. Henry Goddard to Mr. Coke, one of the 
 Masters of Bequests and Commissioners for His Majesty's Navy at his 
 house in Austin Friars. 
 
 14 ships to be calked. Dock goeth slowly on : for want of a damhead 
 made tide work. Old dock perfected in the floor with new ways piled 
 underneath. Constant reformation, leaks. Brick wall for plank yard 
 half done. Old ships to be taken away, and wharf made for 250. To 
 have the building of a ship. Stealths discovered. Issue of cordage. 
 Evil practices. Purveyor for timber. Asks a gratuity. Mr. Burrell 
 and Mr. Norris, formerly glad with his proceedings, are now cold towards 
 him. 
 
 1624, July 21. Portsmouth. Captain John Chudleigh to John 
 Coke. 
 
 Is on a Commission there. The Polacara not to be had till charges 
 are paid. Has sent an inventory of goods in the Speranza of Newhaven 
 and Botterdam. 
 
 1624, July 24. Chatham. Thomas Norreys to John Coke. 
 
 Two old ships shored. The Dock hardly to be shut in before Michael- 
 mas. Boatswains mate of the Rainbow run away. Pressed men appear 
 not. 
 
 1624, July 22. Chatham. Thomas Norreys to the Commissioners of 
 the Navy. 
 
 As to best treatment of Bockwell by whom stolen goods have been 
 recovered so as he may be kept in heart and not to lose his watchfulness. 
 
 1624, July 22. The catalogue of the debts due to Alderman Gore. 
 Taken by Sir Bob. Lee, Mr. Balph Gore and my son Elwes at the first 
 opening of the counting house presently after the death of Alderman 
 Gore. 
 
 Bonds for debts. 
 
 Suits commenced for Alderman Gore's debts. 
 
 1624, July 26. Southampton. Thomas Wechfris to Captain Love. 
 
 General Heriott a Scotsman and his brother Captain Heriott are come 
 from the Coast of Ireland and are within a league of Guernsey l>etween 
 the Islands with 4 ships one with three decks and 24 pieces of ordnance. 
 Doubtless they will play their parts ere they part the Sleeve (the 
 Channel"). Bich he is and will do more mischief, and its no service for 
 the " Charles " or one so small to look upon them. 
 
 1624, July 27. Certificate by 38 prisoners in the King's Bench 
 that Mr. Doctor Lambe now prisoner in the masters side of the King's 
 Bench hath carried, behaved and demeaned himself very honestly and 
 lovingly to all persons and we pray that he be not wronged. Amongst
 
 HISTOKICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 167 
 
 signatures Michael Trebeck, Ellis Bristowe, John Ducket, Robert coke mss. 
 Barnabee, Thomas Chamberlen. 
 
 1624, July 28. Chatham. Captain Thomas Norreys to John Coke 
 one of the Masters of Requests and a Commissioner of His Majesty's 
 Navy. 
 
 I sent a note of things meet to trim and rig the Pinck now at Sand- 
 wich. I sent aboard the Garland all those things that remain. A 
 prize taken by a Holland man-of-war escaped out of the Downs. 
 Bonadventure and the other ship want but munition. Primrose 
 is appointed to attend the transportation of the ordnance and munition 
 for both Dromblers. The Mary Rose, Speedwell, and Antelope want 
 some few stores The Dock and the Creek go hopefully on. 
 
 1624, July 29. Thomas Aylesbury to John Coke, one of the Masters 
 of Requests, at his house in Austin Friars. 
 
 My Lord Danvers desires rather to be transported to Guernsey in the 
 Seven Stars than in the Charles as soon as the Seven Stars returns 
 from my Lord of Oxford. The warrant I will speed from Court 
 whither I now go. 
 
 1624, July 31. London. Don Carlo Colonna to Peter Ricaut (in 
 Spanish), as to embargo at Naples on the ship St. George and 
 artillery purchased by Count de Gondemar. 
 
 1624, July. Indorsed by Coke : The state of Sir Robert Man- 
 sell's accounts for pirates goods taken at Algiers. 
 
 1624, August 2. Poole. Thomas Smedmore to John Gardner, Wey- 
 mouth. 
 
 Reports that a Flemish pirate ship had sold and landed good store 
 of Spanish wools, Castile soap, Bayonne wines and other rich drugs. 
 Thinks that if my Lord Admiral understands of this he will make some 
 of this town pay well for it. Asks directions as deputy officer of 
 customs. 
 
 1624, August 6. His Majesty's Dock near Portsmouth. W. Heath 
 to Mr. Coke, one of the Masters of the Requests to His Majesty and 
 of the Commission for the Navy, at his house in Austin Friars. 
 
 Asks that Mr. Brooke may be desired to resign the stores belonging 
 to his (Heath's) place which he (Heath) has enjoyed this 26 years and 
 more. 
 
 1624, August 6. London. John Coke and Francis Goston, Commis- 
 sioners of the Navy, to William Burrell and Thomas Norreys, Commis- 
 sioners for His Majesty's Navy at Chatham. 
 
 We have attended the Council of war and find an honourable dispo- 
 sition in the Lords to supply all defects in the Navy to make it fit for 
 service upon all sudden occasions. Instructions to examine ships and 
 stores and give true information. The last thing we refer to your care 
 is the perfecting of Mr. BurrelPs plot for the two new ships according 
 to such information as he hath received by his son upon view of the 
 Holland ships leaving out galleries and high carvings and making these 
 his masterpieces for sailing and for fight. 
 
 1624, August 7. Holborn. Henry Wriothesley, Earl of Southampton, 
 to Mr. Coke. 
 
 T hear my Lord of Oxford and his Lady are gone in the Seven 
 Stars. I will not now trouble the King's ship whose pilots I think 
 are not so well acquainted with the Maese as the Dutchmen who will 
 God willing carry me to Rotterdam. Sunday 12 a'clock.
 
 168 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1624, August 7. The Ship in Gravesend. Thomas Wilbraham to 
 John Coke. 
 
 My Lord of Oxford gone aboard the Seven Stars and in her is gone 
 over he told me I was to attend my Lord Southampton here. 
 
 1624, August 15. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to John Coke, Esq., at 
 his house in the Austin Friars, London, near Broad Street. 
 
 Baronet Kniveton desires his suit to be made in Mr. Coke's month o 
 waiting. The Court is at Derby to remove to Tutbury the Duke 
 went from Belvoir to the new well in Wellingborough and is come 
 again to the King at Derby. 
 
 1624, August 20. Fowey. J. Bagge to the Lord Admiral. 
 
 Leave may be given to those that by lawful commission under the 
 Prince of Orange and the States shall take the goods of their enemies 
 and here put it to sale. 
 
 Captain Hewitt, an English gent, a long servant to the States, now a 
 Captain at sea, is now at Fowey with a ship laden with Canary wines 
 and aqua vitae for the account of Spaniards. Hopes that the Admiralty 
 will make it lawful prize, if so he tenders to your Lordship the tenths. 
 This will not only render somewhat to your coffers but encourage others 
 to fill them and bring the Barbary and Irish markets into England. 
 
 1624, August 21. Fowey. James Bagge to the Lord Admiral. 
 
 Describes action between Herriot's three ships and Monsieur Hautin. 
 One of them sunk, the other two escaped into Fowey Harbour where 
 they surrender to Bagge and Captain John Chudleigh. Sir H. Marten 
 should declare them confiscated. Herriot and Yates an old servant to 
 Prince Henry with the principal of their company are to stand to the 
 trial of law. If His Majesty's mercy give them life they may prove 
 able and honest subjects. It is Richard Herriot's suit unto me to obtain 
 leave by his keeper to repair to Court to attend your Lordship. I have 
 likewise under my arrest at Fowey a small Dutch man-of-war. Barbary 
 gold and rials I have from them to the value of 89. The Captains 
 and chief of the company I have committed and I conceive it will be 
 your Grace his pleasure they shall receive justice in due course of law. 
 
 1624, August 21. Aboard H.M.'s pinnace Charles at Fowey. 
 Captain John Chudleigh to John Coke, Master of Requests and one 
 of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy, at his house in Austin 
 Friars. 
 
 Heriot hath been lately encountered withal by the Lord Hawteene 
 (Hautin) one of the Admirals to the States and his ship sunk. Two of 
 his ships came into Fowey. I came from Plymouth aud rode in the mouth 
 of the Harbour and blocked them in so that now they are rendered up to 
 Mr. Bagge. We have also made stay here of three other ships, two of them 
 freebooters, whereof one an English gentleman hath taken a Hamburger 
 ship laden with Canary wines. I propose to scour the coast to the east- 
 ward for one or two ships that was of Herriot's company. 
 
 1624, August 24. Ledbury. Doctor John Hoskyns to John Coke, one 
 of His Majesty's Masters of Requests. 
 
 I perceive my business hath occasioned a commission for a visitation 
 of the Church (Hereford Cathedral) and the Bishops of Hereford, Oxon, 
 and Worcester are Commissioners. I believe that, as I have known it 
 fall out in Oxford, visitations will afflict those diseased members most 
 who did first procure them, because they have slighted the day of God's 
 visitation, to whom I leave them. 
 
 1624, August 26. London. Pieter Rychaut a Tomaso Nelmes Cap 1 " 5 
 della Nave S. Georgio in Napoli o' dove si trova.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 169 
 
 I have written to you so much and so often already of what I have 
 done about the discharge of the ship and your further proceedings that 
 I know not what to write you further. As to your stay at Naples after 
 you have cleared let it be as brief as may be. Follow F. Spinola's order 
 for your further proceeding. Let me know the names of those men 
 which have left you that I pay not their wives any more wages. If the 
 ship be not discharged make a protest against them in good form, and 
 bring it with you. Your wife was here yesterday. Your loving friend, 
 
 Noe du Fay. 
 
 1624, August 24. Edmonton. Thomas Alured to John Coke, Esquire, 
 one of the Masters of Requests attending His Majesty at Court. 
 
 I was with the party who according to her custom and her disposi- 
 tion used me very kindly, and after the motion and some conference 1 
 received an answer which was that she was not resolved to marry and 
 that it was no discretion to bethink of such a course before she knew 
 what her estate was, which by reason there was no inventory yet taken 
 nor prisement made she was ignorant of. One thing she seemed to 
 stop at, which was your children. One passage did not a little please 
 me, in the relating something of your disposition, among other things 
 of your humility, she cited a place out of Isaiah (which she did very 
 discreetly and modestly) that God though He reside in the highest 
 heavens yet He will come and dwell with the humble hearted. I told 
 her I was not willing to press her since it was early days, a resolution I 
 would attend for, when she cnrne nearer us into the country which she 
 said she intended shortly and where I should be welcome. As I told 
 her I hear she had motions already made to her, among others a neigh- 
 bour of Lord Brooke's in Holborn, a late widower, knight, and a guest 
 sometimes with his Lordship. Her estate and the children's being all 
 almost in money I perceive it much perplexes her how to dispose it 
 'tis of little value to put it into the Chamber of London. I told her 
 she had the more need for the advice and assistance of some honest and 
 able head besides her own for managing it. 
 
 1624, August 28. Weymouth, Melcomb Regis. John Gardner to 
 John Coke, at his house in Austin Friars near unto the old Ex- 
 change. 
 
 The man of war yielded up to Capt. Bond of Portland Castle for the 
 Lord Admiral's use. An inventory taken by Mr. Gilbert Raleigh 
 Deputy Vice-Admiral. Commission should be sent for present sale. 
 My Lords Grace wronged by false proprietors as will appear in the 
 Aqua Vitae prize. 
 
 1624, September 8. Petition of Ottewell Stubbs of Newcastle-under- 
 Lyne, mercer, that he having lost 300/. stolen out of his shop and 400/. 
 by bad debtors may have a warrant to authorize him to ask and take 
 the benevolence of well disposed people. 
 
 " I have not power to grant any collection but for losses by fire or 
 water." 
 
 J. L. C. (John Williams Bishop of Lincoln) 
 
 Lord Keeper. Tho : Coven, et Liciiff. 
 
 H. Weston. W. Bowyer. 
 
 Walter Chetwynd. 
 Raffe Sneyde. Tho : Homiston. 
 
 Edw : Mainwaringe. 
 
 1624, September 9. To the King's most Excellent Majesty. The 
 humble petition of Walter Earl of Ormonde and Ossory humblv 
 shewing
 
 170 HISTOEICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1. That the Earl of Desmond in 1623 endeavoured to set up an 
 imposter called Piers Lenan to be the lawful Earl of Ormonde and 
 named certain gentlemen of Lincolns Inn to have sought to murder the 
 said Lenan in favour of your petitioner who cleared themselves and 
 discovered him to be son of James Lenan a poor man of Galway. 
 Prays a commission for the examination of witnesses and that the 
 impostor may be forthcoming to receive such exemplary punishment as 
 is tit in a cause of such consequence. 
 
 2. The petitioner by letters to my Lord Keeper made known to your 
 Majesty his readiness to execute the deed tendered to him by my Lord 
 of Desmond for the forbearance whereof he hath suffered more than 
 five years' imprisonment in wants and misery. Prays order for bis 
 liberty and an answer to the annexed petition. 
 
 1624, September 12. Chatham. Sir Richard Bingley to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Master of the Requests at Court. 
 
 Sends packet to be shown to my Lord Admiral it will be very con- 
 siderable what to do therein for the safety of the King's ship upon such 
 an accident. I will inform myself more particularly of their stratagem. 
 There is a man amongst the Dunkirks that lives at Dover called the 
 Providore that were fit to be questioned about this business. 
 
 1624, September 17. Aboard ship in the Downs. Sir Richard 
 Bingley to Sir John Coke, Knight, Master of the Requests at Court. 
 
 The fireworks prepared at Dunkirk will not be used here in the 
 King's chamber : but when they go from hence and the Hollanders offer 
 to board them, then do they purpose to use them. Count Mansfield 
 landed at Dover yesterday and this day I landed the Spanish Agent in 
 His Grace's pink. I am much importuned by these Dutch Captains 
 for this poor fellow that was captain of the carvel that I will give him 
 his money. In my judgment it is not worthy His Grace's stay of it all 
 circumstances considered. 
 
 1624, September 20. Westminster. R. Willis to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Master of Requests to His Majesty now attending at Court. 
 
 My friends who have interest in the suit for the Tarras desire it 
 should be restrained to England and Ireland by express name, for Scot- 
 land must not be meddled withal. 
 
 1624. September 28. St. James'. John Lord Vaughan to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Master of Requests. 
 
 I understand by Mr. Secretary Cottington that I am infinitely be- 
 holden unto you for your favour touching a petition of mine presented 
 unto His Majesty. Asks that the bearer Mr. Rowland Meyrick may 
 bring the petition and the reference. Your courtesy shall be requited. 
 
 1624, September 28. Naples. Thomas Nelmes, Master of the ship 
 the " George," to his wife. 
 
 Kind love I have written many letters from this cursed place by 
 which I gave thee some (notice ?) of our trouble, yet but little in respect of 
 that unfaithfulness we find daily and more are likely to find they that 
 live : but the purser and Roger Parkins are doubtless at rest for if Spain 
 be Christian country so is hell I think, for not one true word is in King 
 or Council here in this place : but our owner Richaut would make all 
 whole with words, but I pray God he and the Ambassador there do not 
 prove both of them alike : he plays it away saying the ship is clear so 
 she is from us and our land too. I have no time to make circum- 
 stances and take my leave. 
 
 (1624 ?), September 28. Hampton Court. 
 
 Notes in the writing of Sir John Coke.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 171 
 
 4th Audience. Coke MSS. 
 
 Edmond Cutteiis, why his grant has depended 7 years. 
 
 Thomas Lord Wentworth, for letters patent to hold weekly courts for 
 his manors of Stepney and Hackney to try actions for petty debts, with 
 power to arrest, &c. 
 
 Taunton Borough, being one of the greatest clothing towns in 
 Somersetshire, and now falling into decay for want of government, 
 desires a corporation. 
 
 Robert Owen, having by an act of the Common Council of the City 
 of London the office of weighing hay and straw brought to the city and 
 suburbs, asks extension to places adjoining. 
 
 Edward Fisher, having obtained a reference to the Lord Marshal 
 the Lord of Hamilton and the Lord Chamberlain to mediate an agreement 
 with his adversaries, desires that they may in their mediation certify 
 or si review of a decree in Chancery. 
 
 Jasper Mayne asks that the Chief Baron and Baron Bromley be 
 required to peruse and answer this petition, wherein they are charged 
 1st, that they committed the parties upon pretence of a judgment 
 where no such judgment is of record; 2nd, that they, being served 
 with a writ of audita quereta, disobeyed the writ ; 3rd, that they 
 caused Mr. Long, their officer, to invert and record an order with an 
 antedate. " Letter to Lord Chief Baron and Baron Bromley granted." 
 
 Helen Levingston, whose mother was his Majesty's nurse, asks for 
 grant of debts to his Majesty upon the accounts of Otho Nicholson, 
 receiver for assart lands. 
 
 Sir Baptist Hicks for grant of the Advowson of the Vicarage of 
 Cambden " granted." 
 
 Richard Uridge, Vicar of Walton-on-Thames, asks for a reference to 
 the Bishop of Winchester, that the parson impropriate may be caused to 
 increase the endowment of the Vicarage. 
 
 Sir John Savage, having by grant to his ancestors for service in the 
 wars from Henry 7, the manor and advowson of Ombury, the manor of 
 Walton and the rectory of petitions a new grant to confirm 
 
 the same in law. 
 
 Peter Hickson and William Morgan for alms rooms at Gloucester and 
 Chichester. 
 
 Sir William Monson, having a grant of the bailiwick and recordership 
 of Bolingbroke in Lincolnshire, and having bought provisions of William 
 Skinner and Sir Thomas Hatton, prays a new grant (upon surrender) 
 to his three sons Thomas and Lodowick. 
 
 James Wilson, messenger to the Lady Elizabeth 11 years, craves to 
 be recommended to the Commissioners of the Hospital at Charterhouse 
 for an almsroom. 
 
 Sir Edmund Carey, the King's servant, for confirmation of his right 
 to the goods of a felon convict tenant in his manor of Danby. 
 
 Berwick. Mayor, Bailiffs, and Burgesses petition for leave to 
 transport the wools of that country. 
 
 Thomas Reade for GO/., which was gathered some years since for the 
 wars of the Palatinate, and lieth in one man's hands, like to be suppressed. 
 (Granted.) 
 
 John Gilbert and Richard Fowler, having found out a way to 
 discover transporters of money, desire that they may bring such as they 
 discover before the Commissioners of the Navy, and may have a moiety 
 of the fines for twenty-one years. (Granted, but the reward to be 
 according to the law, or to be allotted by his Majesty.)
 
 172 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Henry Rowland, that a house and large shop with tools in the Minorits 
 belonging to his Majesty's gunmaker, and being detained from him by 
 Francis Norfolk, a bricklayer, may be restored. 
 
 Thomas Penington, for a reference to Mr. Attorney to examine the 
 difference between the Clerk of the Peace and the Lord Wentworth 
 about taking recognizances from alehouses. 
 
 John Shotbolt and others, to whom his Majesty hath granted 400 
 acres in Sedgemoor, for recovery of 4000, that it may be assured in fee 
 farm, at four pence an acre. 
 
 Nathaniel Markham, that the Dean and Chapter of Windsor may 
 make his lease, which they have granted and which is stayed by a letter 
 from his Majesty, which deprives them and him of the fruit of this 
 harvest. (The King himself will take order in it.) 
 
 Robert Wood, for service done to Queen Anne, was granted 30 
 denizens ; he craveth order to the Clerk of the Signet to draw up his 
 warrant, because being poor he could get no former warrant. (Denied 
 because he telleth an untruth.) 
 
 Henry Walgrave, to stay the pardon of Bartholomew Church. (Order 
 not to pass the pardon without acquainting his Majesty.) 
 
 Richard Kilvirt, for power to levy Sir John Bennets fine upon his 
 lands and goods. (The Lord Treasurer to take order that, upon payment 
 of the money, this be allowed and that he may be enabled.) 
 
 1624, September 30. De Bois Loree. Petition au Roi. Prays reference 
 of his case, a Monsieur Coke, M r des Requetes (qui parle et entend 
 fort bien la langue francaise & qui par tant le pourra mieux & plus 
 facilement instruire de tout l'etat d'icelle) et a Sir Thomas Coventry 
 votre Attourn : General qui a entiere connaissance d'icelle et de tous 
 les chemins qu'elle a pris. 
 
 1624, October 1. John Coke to the Lord Brooke, one of His 
 Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Sir Robert Naunton hath the Mastership of the Wards under seal. 
 
 The King came yesternight to Wallingford House where my Lord 
 Duke still taketh physic and there I left him at past six of the clock. 
 Out of Germany a bruit flieth which 1 hope is not true that Tilly hath 
 either taken or besieged Basle and that the Emperor hasteneth the Diet 
 for a ratification of the Electorate and a final exclusion of the person of 
 the King of Bohemia. Our merchants still prosecute the Dutch with 
 all earnestness I might say violence for the late feat in the Indies. We 
 expect a warrant for the employment of our ships for the seizing of 
 such of theirs as either are going out for the Indies or shall return 
 home. The Persian Ambassador was at Hampton Court and presseth 
 the overture of a great Persian trade, but our merchants esteem no better 
 of him than a juggler. The new sickness continueth both in city and 
 country. This week there died 411. Order is given for the remove of 
 Justice Whitlock and for the sending of Sir Thomas Chamberlain in his 
 stead. 
 
 1624, October 4. Sir Gylford Slyngisbie to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of the Masters of His Majesty's Court of Requests. 
 
 Yesterday I have received the Commission and I thank God I have 
 from my heart freely forgiven all men that have offended me. I am 
 advised by an honourable friend of mine to give satisfaction unto my 
 Lord Duke that I had no hand in the business propounded by Sir Robert 
 Mansell concerning the Navy. I protest before God I had not neither 
 did I know anything of it. I am given to understand that the King 
 purposeth to advance you to the place of Secretary of State. I pray
 
 JIISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 173 
 
 you be a means that I may have the place of Master of Requests. I have 
 seven sons and small means to educate them, will you be pleased to 
 accept one of them into your service. I do the rather desire it because 
 the world may take notice of my unfeigned reconcilement to you. 
 
 1624, October 4. Plymouth. James Bagg to the Commissioners 
 of His Majesty's Navy at Sir John Coke's house in Crutched Friars. 
 
 A most extraordinary storm, and a Dutch ship enforced the King's 
 ship " Bonadventure " to drive and the master for safety of the ship to 
 cut by the board the main mast. Amongst a parcel of masts which Mr. 
 Jennens hath there is a very good tree of 28 yards in length and 25i 
 inches in thickness. He demands for that mast 50/. If you will not 
 have her masted with one tree, here are materials to make a piecened 
 mast and able and sufficient workmen. Two Dutch and three English 
 ships cast away in this storm. Commission to enquire of masts cut up 
 by Harris and Byder shall have their answers. 
 
 1624, October 4. Chatham. -Thomas Norreys to Sir John Coke 
 Knight, one of the Masters of Bequests and a Commissioner of His 
 Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Great disasters in the Downs both in the King's ships and others. 
 Their boats are all or most part lost, the " Antelope's " rudder and all 
 her masts. The "Convertine's " cables, the "Speedwells" sheet 
 anchor bent. The " Avon " is this day docked and gates shut. 
 
 1624, October 13. Trinity College. Doctor John Kichardson, 
 Master, to Sir John Coke one of the Masters of Bequests unto His 
 Majesty at the Austin Friars. 
 
 S.P. Although in College elections we are bound to regard no letters 
 but good letters, yet your letters to me being written for a man of so 
 good worth for his bearing studiousness and religion may as well stand 
 with my duty to the College as with my loving affection and friendship 
 unto you. There r ore good Sir your desire I have very willingly at this 
 time performed. For your son [John] who indeed is young and tender, 
 I think it were not amiss to put him into Bachelors Commons in one of 
 my places there where he shall be a little the better as having the first 
 choice and service of the mess. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir J. Coke " Mr. Wincop made fellow." 
 
 1624, October 14. Meende. Foulke Walwin to Sir John Coke. 
 
 On behalf of James Newton his father's ancientest servant and clerk 
 in a reference made to Doctor Hoskins and others between James 
 Newton and Johanna widow of Bichard Smith. 
 
 1624, October 15. The Savoy. Edward Nicholas to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of the Masters of Bequests to His Majesty. 
 
 I understand by Sir Edward Zouche that though it hath not been 
 my good fortune to be known to you yet it hath been your goodness 
 lately very much to oblige me. I received yesterday a letter for the 
 Sergeant of the Admiralty of the Cinque Ports, signifying that he hath 
 in his custody 3 barrels of copper and 2 bales of buckram and baize 
 which goods were saved out of a ship of Hamburgh which came lately 
 upon the main near Bamsgate, and that it is probable more wrecked 
 goods may be easily gotten out of the sea in the Downs when the diver 
 whom he hath sent for into the Low Countries does come over. .Another 
 letter certifieth much hurt is done to the Church tower and lodgings 
 in Dover Castle by the great tempest. Agreement between my Lord 
 Zouche and His Grace concerning certain lands should be speeded. I 
 am not yet so strong as that I dare venture out of doors.
 
 174 HISTOEICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1624, October. De Bois Loree. to Sir John Coke. 
 In French. Has served the King 20 years, his " imprimerie " 
 granted five years ago has not been successful, asks a " soulagement." 
 
 1624, November 2. Eoyston. Secretary Sir Edward Conway to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Masters of Requests. 
 
 I made you acquainted Avith a. question depending in your Court 
 between the widow Essex and Sir Edward Greville. I am persuaded 
 that Sir Edward Greville by mere confidence did neglect his opportunity 
 of producing of proofs that would have cleared him from all these 
 pretences. Common fame made Sir Edward Greville the loser and 
 laid the disadvantage on his side both in the life and death of Essex. 
 The long time in which all pretenders were silent might well discredit 
 a bond or a bill, much more an account for which there is little sub- 
 stantial affirmation as I am informed. My suit is that you will hear 
 him patiently, believe him according to substantial probabilities and 
 proved truths, and then according to your wisdom and goodness (upon 
 which justice is built) do by him as by the friend and cousin of your 
 friend and servant. 
 
 1624, November 6. Preston. John Powell. [No address.] 
 I had some desire to have come to London before this time if I 
 could have brought it to pass that by my Lord Brooke's commandment 
 James Baily and I might have attended his Lordship for the ending 
 of the matters between him and ; me but failing thereof and hearing by 
 common report that there was a dangerous sickness in London which 
 put my wife in fear and doubt of my going, I have forborne my coming. 
 For the 114/. of your money which remained in my hands at your 
 last being here, I must confess I have been over bold with you in not 
 returning it unto you before this time : the cause was in respect of a 
 payment I was to make at Hallowtide last of 272/. to Doctor Seaman 
 his wife which I have now fully satisfied, and made clear the mortgage 
 of the tithe of Pamington, which I have sold to Mr. Vryan Wise our 
 Registrar at the Council, my good friend. I purpose at my going to 
 Ludlow the next week to take course with him that he shall write the 
 money shall be paid to you. I trust you shall be fully satisfied in short 
 time. This year having fallen out so dry and unfruitful that hither- 
 unto I could make but small profits of the grounds at Wolston, but 
 must hope of better hereafter. I do acknowledge myself much 
 beholden unto you for the favour you have done me by helping me in 
 forbearing your money which I cannot forget, nor shall be unthankful 
 unto you as God shall enable me. I thank the Lord it hath been no 
 prodigal course that brought me in debt, for the cause is well known 
 unto you, and I trust the Lord will deal so mercifully as hitherunto he 
 hath done, that I shall pay every man his own in due time. For the 
 w r ool, Th. Walker sold 3 stone 3 lb. at Ross. The bull and the cow 
 ready for the butcher are yet to be sold. At my being at London in 
 Easter term Mr. Vyner demanded of me the use of his money for a 
 year being 24/. But in the beginning of September last I received 
 this letter inclosed from Warwick whereby he requireth 30/. I there- 
 fore desire you will be pleased to set down what it must be, and I will 
 take order it shall be paid at Mr. Vincents. Further you shall under- 
 stand that Richard Mayo, of the Hyde hath made motion to take the 
 stocking, and to do some husbandry upon it by ridding and tumping 
 it but offereth but 6/. by year for it, your price being 7/., and likewise 
 Furney sheweth to be willing to take the Lampitt leasow but offereth 
 but 11. I think there will be time enough between this and Candlemas 
 to hear of more chapmen for these and such other as are to be letten
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 175 
 
 The sheepcote at the Hallend is set up and finished all but thatching, coke M9S 
 and yet Lambert Bond is not satisfied for want of place for his poultry 
 
 and pigs. With our heartiest commendations I commit you to the 
 protection of the Almighty. Your very loving father-in-law. God 
 willing you shall hear from me again from Ludlow. (Indorsed by Sir 
 John Coke " 114/. due to me ".) 
 
 1624, November 11. Flushing. Captain John Chudleigh to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, Master of Requests, and one of the Commissioners 
 of His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 I am loath to name it but seeing it must be, or is already known to 
 you, I will relate it, being the unfortunate loss of the " Speedwell." What 
 shall I say but as it is said in Scripture there is nothing done in the 
 city but God doth it. It is also extended both to sea and land. Now 
 to the particular passage of this disastrous misfortune. In the morning 
 of that dismal day I went to Count Mansfeld to know his pleasure. 
 We stood upon our course, then, or presently after came a pilot which 
 Count Mansfeld had sent for, which Pillen was the cause and instru- 
 ment of our overthrow, for he contraried my master and pilots wills 
 and forced the helmsman to steer us otherwise than they would have 
 done. I being then between the decks, presently at my coming up the 
 ship came on ground it being about half ebb. I entreated Count Mans- 
 feld that he would be carried aboard another ship which he yielded 
 unto, he being the chiefest treasure to be preserved. Our pinnace 
 carried him aboard a Flemish pink bound for England, they fell to 
 leeward so that neither boat nor ship could come to aid us. About 10 
 of the clock at night our long boat went forcibly from us upon the 
 sudden increase of water that came into the ship Avhich at an instant 
 did almost fill the ship. The multitude pressing upon me I was like to 
 fall by the board having but one hand upon a small rope. The boat 
 went away and would not take me in. A little while after a small 
 boat came to us from the ship that Avas cast away ahead of us. In this 
 boat the Dutch pilot would have stolen away but he was prevented. 
 There came a fisher-boat which brought a cockboat and five men from 
 a small man-of-war of the States. We heaved our ropes to them with 
 buoys which with much ado they received and so fastened it to the boat 
 and also one of theirs which when we had drawn the boat to us they 
 mought again haul it to them, by this means there was 3 or 4 returns 
 made by the boat but at length the storm began to increase in such 
 manner that the boat was overset and all that were in her drowned. 
 Now having no possible means to save any more, the fishermen cut 
 their cable and went for Flushing leaving many poor souls to be 
 swallowed in the sea. Thus have I anatomized unto you the woful 
 wreck of this ship. As for myself in particular the present cloud of 
 my calamity lieth so heavy and ponderous upon me that I fear I shall 
 sink under the burthen of it without your help, in special to my Lord 
 Admiral that the sunshine of his favours may not be eclipsed from me. 
 
 1624, November 13. The Downs. Sir Richard Bingley to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, Master of the Requests, at his house. 
 
 A small man-of-war to supply himself made choice of Ramsgate in 
 the Isle of Thanet, where he knew the King's ship could not come to 
 hurt him, it being but a small creek that ebbs dry every tide. 1 having 
 knowledge of him by a Frenchman who he had chased into the roads, 
 manned my long boat and pinnace and commanded the Mary Rose 
 long boat to accompany me, and I have taken her. The Captain, Robert 
 White, of Weymouth : who showed me a Dutch commission, he 
 entreated me to be good unto them for that there were many gents
 
 176 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokbmss. there whose fortunes depended on the welfare of this ship. The ship 
 is a very pretty one and goes admirably well. She is of 60 tons. If 
 it will please His Grace that she may serve for my pinnace, she is ready 
 for it, cables and anchors excepted. 
 
 1624, November 18. Alderman Wm. Gore's estate. Bond of 
 Johannes Coke de Much Marcle in Com. Hereford miles qui marri- 
 tavit Johannam nuper uxorem et executricem testamenti et ultima? 
 voluntatis Will 1 Gore nuper civis et Aldermanni London defuncti to 
 Cornelius Fish Candario civitate London, in decern mille libris, for 
 exhibiting a perfect inventory of the goods of Alderman Wm. Gore into 
 the Court of the King to be holden before Mayor and Aid. in the 
 Chamber of the Guildhall of the said City. (The bond cancelled). 
 
 1624, November 22. Chatham. Captain Thomas Norreys to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 For masters attendant to be appointed. 
 
 1624. November 29. His house. Sir Gylford Slyngisbie to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of the Masters of His Majesty's Court of Requests. 
 
 I have suffered five years having at the beginning of the Commission 
 2,000/. in my purse and am now 1,000/. in debt to my utter undoing. I 
 pray you take into your consideration what great reputation and advance- 
 ment you have received thereby, some difference there was betwixt us 
 but freely and conscionablely give your best assistance in repairing me 
 in that which by the commission I have lost chiefly by the Earl of 
 Middlesex his over-swaying greatness. The office of Master of the 
 Ordnance of the Ships hath no dependence at all on the Master of the 
 Ordnance of England, for it is a wrong unto the Lord Admiral and a 
 great detraction from his office. I do find in record that in the last 
 year of the reign of King Henry 8, the six officers of the Navy were 
 first made patentees, Sir Edward Cleere, Vice Admiral of England, Sir 
 William Woodhouse, Master of the Ordnance of the Ships, Mr. Legge, 
 Treasurer, Mr. Holstock, Comptroller, Sir William Winter, Surveyor, 
 and Mr. Gunstone, Clerk of the Navy. The Earl of Warwick, Master 
 of the Ordnance of England, though he were a person of great quality 
 and elder brother to the Earl of Leicester, who in his time was the 
 potents man in the kingdom did never give impediment unto the Lord 
 Admiral for placing of any officer. As I know yourself to be a man 
 who doth much regard the privileges belonging to the Lord Admiral, 
 and that he is so well pleased to take your advice I pray you to give 
 me your furtherance in this, that I may be in Mr. Burrell's place in 
 the Commission who you know hath behaved himself most foully and 
 corruptly. The Earl of Middlesex hath divers times said that in my 
 particular I was no way faulty. 
 
 1624, November 29. Chatham. Captain Thomas Norreys to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty, 
 and a Commissioner of his Kavy. 
 
 These few lines only to congratulate your new marriage and wish 
 you all true content, honour and happiness. Since Mr. Boate's coming 
 hither I have found some content in his diligent and sincere carriage 
 of things : knowing his integrity he regards not much those sudden 
 flashes of fury and threatening which he hears. How all things go 
 here he can particularly relate to you. 
 
 1624, December 7. Savoy. Petition of William Blyeth, Saltpetre- 
 maker, to the Gracious Prince George, Duke of Buckingham, Lord 
 High Admiral of England, and George Lord Carew, Master of His 
 Majesty's Ordnance, to reduce the quantity he is bound to deliver, by
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 177 
 
 reason the Dovecotes in the north-western counties are all paved with Cokb MSS. 
 stone. Referred by Lord Carew to the Commissioners of the Navy. 
 
 1624, December 10. Cambridge. Edward Nicholas to Sir John 
 Coke. Knight, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty, at his 
 house at Garlick Hill near Bow Lane, London. 
 
 For the warrant to prepare the ships in the Cinque Ports for the 
 transporting of the soldiers from Dover, my Lord knows not what to do 
 in it until he receiveth the warrant which was sent by the Lords of the 
 Council, for it must be his Grace's warrant for that business. The 
 King stays here till Monday and hence goeth to my Lord of Suffolk's 
 house about 8 miles from this town. 
 
 1624, December 10. The account of Sir John Elliott, Knight, Vice 
 Admiral of Devon, for all such ships, goods, moneys and commodities 
 as he hath there received and taken by virtue of his office and are now 
 due and to be accounted for to the Lord High Admiral of England 
 from the 8th day of December 1622, unto the 29th day of September 
 last past. (Note by Sir J. Coke). " A ship of corn and wines in his 
 hands (1,035/.) not accounted for." 
 
 1G24, December 11. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Master of Requests to His Majesty at the Lord Carew's. 
 
 My body hath been this two or three days so loose and turbulent as 
 my will and affections could bear no sway : otherwise, Sir, I had 
 personally attended you with our warrants and briefs. Here is a letter 
 and warrant for the Lord Admiral to sign and two for the Lords of the 
 Council. 
 
 1624, December 15. Chatham. Henry Goddard to Sir John Coke. 
 For Mr. Thompson's son to be employed. 
 
 1624, December 17. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, one of the Masters of Requests. 
 
 I thank you for your directions. 1 shall be glad to have some order 
 for paying of these ships for they call for monies to be imprest. Sir R. 
 Bingley is here. We find they will not carry the men under 18c?. a 
 piece. My Lord of Carlisle is to land here this day. 
 
 1624, December 19. Poplar. W. Burrell to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 At Chatham Captain Norreys lies dangerously sick. For so weighty a 
 business amongst all the company of sea commanders and brothers of 
 the Trinity House I can only nominate two, Captain Best and Captain 
 Downing, who are both understanding seamen (bred up from the 
 Knittell) great husbands for shipping and of* good estates and credit in 
 the world, besides they are lovers of religion and have more than 
 ordinary dexterity in penmanship. 
 
 1624, December 21. Drury Lane. Valentine Carey, Bishop of 
 Exeter, to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Masters of Requests to 
 His Majesty. 
 
 I am become a suitor unto you in the behalf of Sir John Elliot who 
 hath divers ways merited this office at my hands that you would afford 
 him your favour and friendship in his just and honest causes which 
 may fall within your cognizance and power. I pray you let him taste 
 of your friendship at my request and mediation that thereby he may 
 both find me ready to requite his former courtesies as also be obliged to 
 me in the like hereafter, but expecially because he desires exceedingly 
 to be happy in the assurance of your love. 
 
 U 24963. M
 
 178 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1624, December 24. Chatham. Edward Boate to Sir John Coke. 
 
 As to bad practices in making cordage. 
 
 Endorsed " Pope's Head. Page a silkman in Lombard S*. Hooker, 
 a goldsmith, next door to the Pope's Head. M r El ways now at "White 
 horse over against the Pope's Head." 
 
 1624, December 26. Sherborne. Captain Christopher Levett to Sir 
 John Coke, one of the Masters of Requests in ordinary to His Majesty. 
 
 Asks employment in anything he is capable of to bring glory to God 
 his name and some good to this Church and this Commonwealth. 
 Friends advised me to New England. I beseech you help me forward 
 with that or some other employment. I could conduct a ship from any 
 place in the world that is yet discovered into England. I protest unto 
 you it is even a death to me to live idle. 
 
 1624, December 30. The Downs. Sir Richard Bingley to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, at his house on Garlick Hill. 
 
 I have had two packets directed unto you returned to me that were 
 intercepted by this unruly multitude of soldiers. God send me well 
 clear of them for they trouble me more than the Dunkirkers did. I 
 have a command from my Lord Duke for staying of all ships bound for 
 Spain laden with fish. This night here is come in a fleet of Hamburgers 
 bound for Spain. I intend to search them this day. I am advertised 
 that Sir Henry Mervyn hath made his peace with the French Ambassador 
 and shall be presently restored to this employment. 
 
 1624. A Latin letter, apparently to King James 1st, from an 
 adversary of the Duke of Buckingham, written between the return from 
 Spain 6th October 1623, and the death of King James, 27th March 
 1625. Serenissime Rex. 
 
 # # # * 
 
 Majestati vestras latere non potest Ducem Buckinghamium ita sub- 
 lime ferri, ut velit omnibus persuasum esse se super voluntatem V. M. 
 et Suae Celsitudinis dominium exercerc. Haec omnia V. M. patefient si 
 patefacta voluerit neque enim media desunt quibus timore et diflidentia 
 vasallos suos eximat nihil alias dicturos nee ausuros. Quod quidem 
 eousque verum est ut cum facile sit rebus sic stantibus reperire qui 
 contra M. V. loqueutur, non tameu sit qui contra Ducem loqui 
 audeat. 
 
 V. M. quosdam advocet quid moderatiores Parlamenti sentiat seru- 
 tetur ab iis qui ex Hispania redierunt, quis illic primam causam inimi- 
 citiarum dederit inquirat, an verae sint querimoniae contra regem His- 
 paniarum toties repetitae, an praedictus rex Hispaniarum voluntati 
 S. C. satisfacere non desideravit, an matrimonium fideliter non pro- 
 curaverit, an Dux Buckinghamius contra authoritatem serenissimo 
 principi debitam multa non facerit ; an stante et prassente principe 
 solitus fuerit sedere modo indecenti, pedes alteri sedi innixus ; an dis- 
 coperto principe cum regina et infanta e fenestris prospicerent caput 
 discoperuerit. An assidens mensse principis non irreverenter se 
 gesserit; an cameram S. C. medias vestes indutus ingredi non sit solitus 
 ita ut fores non paterent iis qui ex parte regis Hispaniarum visitaturi 
 veniebant, ostrariis ingressum prae verecundia recusantibus, an serenis- 
 simo principi agnomina ridicula non imposuerit. An regiam mulierculis 
 vilibus non profanaverit, an res obscenas in prassentia principi et gesticu- 
 lationes inverecundas cum histrionibus non fecerit, an fidem comiti de 
 Olivares datam non violaverit, an offendicula et querelas suas legatis 
 aliorum principum illico non communicaverit ; an in rebus gerendo fre- 
 quentibus minis apud ministros regis Catholici et cum nuncio apostolico 
 usus non fuerit ; an in comcediis in palatio exhibitis sedere ad exemplum
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 179 
 
 regis et principis non aflectavit honore qui supremo aulae oeCDnomo Cokb M88. 
 deferri solet non contentus. 
 
 Praster haec antehac M. V. dicta hoc novi occurrit, Ducem Bucking- 
 hamium (quo animo eaeteri induent) tractatus secretos inter M. V. et 
 regem Hispaniarumde rebus Hollandicis initos in parlamento divulgasse, 
 quorum tamen secretum Majestas vestra ita commendaverat, ut prseter 
 regem et comitem de Olivares in Hispania nemo noverit. Si horum 
 omnium Dux conscius non appareat esto Majestati vestrae fidelissimus 
 servus et majores, si quos potest honores ill: deferet, haec enim in Majes- 
 tatis vestrae securitatem, non in ipsius damnum, dicta volo cui bene esse 
 desidero si per ilium Orbi Christiano bene esse possit. 
 
 Superest, ut hoc officium et obedientiam meam man 1 ' 8 M. V. prsesti- 
 tam boni consulat. 
 
 1624. Mr. Poinet's report as to the depths in the River of Medway. 
 
 1624. Concerning pursers in the Navy, their duties in harbour and 
 at sea. 
 
 1624. Genoa. Francesco Spinola's acknowledgment to Thomas 
 Stevenson, of payment of 1,386/. by order of Peter Ricaut for Captain 
 Nelmes. 
 
 1624. Papers in Italian, indorsed by J. Coke. 
 
 January 10. Peter Ricault to Fran. Spinola. 
 
 March 20. Spinola's instructions to Mr. Nelms [capitano de Nave 
 St. Georgio]. 
 
 September 2. Fran. Spinola to Thomas Nelms. 
 
 October 18. Fran. Spinola to Thomas Nelms. 
 
 All relating to the detention of the ship St. George by the Viceroy at 
 Naples. 
 
 1624. The Lord Steward's Report concerning the Earl of Middle- 
 sex. A note of what hath past with the Lord of Middlesex concerning 
 the assignment of his fine for discharge of some part of the Household 
 and Wardrobe debts. The humble suit of the Lord Steward to his 
 Majesty is that it would please him to give leave that the extent may 
 go forth or otherwise to ordain where present money may be had. 
 
 1624. Accounts to be given by Sir John Elliot to the Lord Admiral 
 of a ship of corn taken by Dartmouth men from Dutchmen, and of 
 wines, silver, and plate had by him from other ships. 
 
 1624-5, January 3. Petition to the King. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. 
 " John Barker, reference." 
 
 For a reference to certain neighbours to settle controversies between 
 the petitioner and his father, and Agnes Coates, his mother-in-law, and 
 a tenant. 
 
 1624-5, January 6. Plymouth. James Bagg to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 1 pray you give the Commissioners your opinion of me and of my 
 will to do his Grace just and honest service. These parts understand 
 of great preparations for the sea, a press of men and victuals. There 
 is fourteen hundred thousand of Newfoundland fish to be had, which if 
 taken up for His Majesty's use will cost 4 10s. every thousand. My 
 desire is that if it be bought you will be the means that I do the busi- 
 ness and direct the payment of the monies to me in London where 
 speadily I will repair and to your honour perform the service with 
 much faith and honesty. 
 
 1624-5, January 7. Clerkenwell. Mary, Countess of Shrewsbury, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight. 
 
 M 2
 
 180 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Good Sir John Coke, I am so much beholden to you that it makes 
 me bold for my friends that I have great care of as for myself to entreat 
 your pains. My cousin Mr. John Markbam's widow intends to petition 
 the King for a reference, and we both entreat you to take it into your 
 hands to get His Majesty's hand to it so far as with any convenience 
 you may, and that you will be pleased to let me know whether it will 
 be better that my cousin deliver it when the King takes his Court, or 
 that yourself will be pleased to deliver it, but howsoever we pray you to 
 have a special care of it. We look daily that the ships from Turkey 
 should return, which if they do and that her adversary do seize of her 
 goods it will be very prejudicial to her. He is offered all reason 
 but will accept none but thinks by suits and troubles to weary the 
 poor gentlewoman. I pray give me leave again to press you with all 
 earnestness to bring to a speedy end. And so with my hearty com- 
 mendations to you I will take my leave and ever remain your assured 
 friend. 
 
 1524-5, January 8. Chatham. Henry Goddard to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight. 
 
 Encloses a warrant to himself from Mr. W. Burrell to act as his 
 deputy at Chatham. Asks a direct authority to himself from the Com- 
 missioners of the Navy. He has an encouragement from Mr. Burrell, Mr. 
 Buck, and others. There should be an increased watch at Chatham and 
 one next the fields and woods, there lying the sugar, oil, tar, and some 
 parcels of sails and other stores. 
 
 1624-5, January 10. Dover. Sir John Hippisley, Governor of 
 Dover Castle, to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Masters of the 
 Requests. 
 
 For His Majesty's special service. Sir Richard Bingley went out 
 with the French Ambassador, he hath taken the pinck that he said 
 was a pirate, but I think it will not prove so. I have pressed many 
 ships that be laden but I have a do to make them unload, and here is 
 likewise some Dutch hoys that I have stayed also. I pray let be had 
 warrant for both. Count Mansfield doth intend to ship the two Regi- 
 ments that be in Dover upon Wednesday and takes most of all the 
 rest of the soldiers that be billetted in the country upon Thursday. 1 
 have pressed ships here which are sithence stolen out of the pier, the 
 one a Scotchman whose name is Gilbert Anderson, the other is one 
 Thomas Thewe of Hull, if you make not these examples the next press 
 all will be gone, this of Hull was laden with lead and marble and is gone 
 for Dunkirk. Let him receive punishment here where the offence was 
 done, which will be a good means to make others beware. The Count 
 intends to ship the other four Regiments at the Downs but as yet he 
 hath no victuals for them. He hath put trust to one Wade of this town 
 that I fear will deceive him. I have no order from any for the paying 
 for straw for the soldiers neither for these ships for some have been 
 pressed these three weeks. Never man had more trouble than I have 
 nor less help for here hath been but one Deputy Lieutenant with me all 
 these whiles. 
 
 1624-5, January 10. Daglingworth. Vrian Wise to Sir John Coke 
 at his house upon Garlick Hill. 
 
 100/. to be paid to Sir J. Coke who is asked to give back a bond 
 and to inform his father-in-law Mr. Powell. The 100/. to be repaid in 
 Ludlow. 
 
 1624-5, January 13. Grays Inn. Henry Goldsmith to Sir John 
 Coke.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 181 
 
 For the King's letter in behalf of Sir Cuthbert Hallsall that he ComMSS. 
 recover his ancient inheritance in the Duchy Court, for which your 
 great pains and care there shall be a further requital. 
 
 1624-5, January 16. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke, Knight. 
 Good Brother, 
 
 As I must always acknowledge your love towards me in all 
 my occasions which have been very many in so troublesome and 
 variable a fortune as I have proven in the world, so more especially I 
 am bound to you for your love and care in this business of Swarkestone, 
 wherein I did headlong throw myself without the counsel of my true 
 friends and I fear displeasingly to God (for which I have often heartily 
 repented me) finding therein such strong opposition as I looked not for, 
 begun by Mr. Lowe in Sir John Harpur's lifetime, which in my con- 
 science cost Sir John his life and will be out of the ward's way 12,000/. 
 at the least (as I will better acquaint you hereafter) and the same con- 
 tention shortened Mr. Rickman's days. Since whose death Mr. Lowe 
 hath also tasted of the same cup. So are they at rest and I still left to 
 bear the trouble and grief of that business, for two of Sir John 
 Harpur's servants having taken upon them the whole ordering of the 
 ward who were nothing trusted nor well thought of by Sir John. We 
 did complain in the Court ; we had an injunction to remove them but it 
 prevaileth not. We have also examined witnesses against them this 
 term to be certified into the Court. And we hope that (although the 
 Master of the Court left me quite out of his last order lor the bringing 
 up and marriage of the ward) yet since I only stand bound in 2,000/. 
 for the bringing up and marriage and other covenants to be performed, 
 he will not give way to such mean fellows as these be to be able to make 
 my bond forfeited at their pleasure. I know not whether any others 
 either Mr. Pierpont or Sir Gervaise Clifton or Mr. John Beaumont will 
 enter into any course against us at these men's instigation. If Mr 
 Pierpont, it is for anger against me that have questioned him in the 
 Court of Wards about laud bought of my cousin Bonnington. If it be 
 Sir Gervaise Clifton I was a Commissioner against him for Sir John 
 Harpur in a suit betwixt them to the value of 10,000/. And Mr. Beau- 
 mont (a recusant) who was questioned by Sir John Harpur for his 
 whole estate in the behalf of Mrs. Dixie then wife to Mr. John Harpur 
 son to Sir Richard Harpur. So that none of them do this for love to the 
 ward, or that they were trusted by Sir John Harpur which they were 
 not, but for private respects. Furthermore the ward will not go to Sir 
 Peter Fretchville's house according to the Court's order, but his answer 
 is (as he is taught by them) that do what the Court will he will not go 
 from Swarkestone. These things will be all made plain to the Court 
 by affidavit and witnesses sworn. I pray you continue your wonted 
 love to me in putting Mr. Attorney in remembrance of us and this 
 cause. And so with hearty commendations to yourself and my good 
 sister and all yours from myself and my wife we leave you to the blessings 
 of the Almighty. 
 
 1624-5, January 21. Portsmouth. Matthew Brooke to Sir Johu 
 Coke. 
 
 To obtain His Majesty's letter for the reversion of his place for hia 
 son when my Lord Duke is well and again with the King. 
 
 1624-5, January 23. The Inner Temple. Sir Thomas Coventry 
 and Sir Robert Heath to His Grace the Duke of Buckingham. 
 
 We have despatched the commission that concerneth your Grace's 
 brother the Lord Viscount Purbeck. The Lord Treasurer did peruse
 
 182 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 and allow the pay book before it was engrossed. We rest your Grace's 
 most humble and bounden servants. 
 
 1624-5, January 25. Whitehall. Thomas Packer to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 As to a grant of the Lady Markham's and Sampford's fines made to 
 Lim in 1622, in which he has been crossed by the Earl of Middlesex. 
 
 1624-5, January 26. London. Christopher Vernon to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Masters of Request at the Court 
 at Newmarket. 
 
 These are the parts of my petition, viz., That I have discovered the 
 long usurpation of a great liberty upon the Crown called the Liberty of 
 Bury St. Edmunds, in the County of Suffolk. By means whereof His 
 Majesty is like to gain a good sum of money for arrearages and a good 
 yearly profit to the Crown for ever. The late Lord Treasurer recom- 
 mended this my service to His Majesty as fit to be rewarded. My 
 humble suit is that His Majesty will be pleased to grant me a lease 
 for 3 lives or 31 years of His Majesty's moiety of certain rents now 
 withholden from His Majesty, which rents are particularly named in 
 my petition, and of the arrearages of such rents. Be pleased to get it 
 referred to the Lord Treasurer and Chancellor. 
 
 1624-5, January 28. London. George Villiers, Duke of Bucking- 
 ham, " for yourself." 
 
 Sir John Coke, I pray you deliver this inclosed letter with all speed 
 to His ^Majesty and in this business of His household tell His Majesty 
 from me that if He be not constant to himself He will bring other 
 necessary occasions into great disorder, here is such scarcity of monies. 
 Tell him likewise the Ambassadors of France have very great need of 
 money and it is hard to be found. There is another paper inclosed 
 which 1 pray you read to His Majesty and intreat him to hold his hands 
 in it till I have the happiness to wait of him, so in haste I rest your 
 faithful friend & servant. 
 
 1624-5, January 29. Sir J. Coke to the Duke of Buckingham (draft). 
 
 Right Honourable, His Majesty having read your Grace's letters is 
 pleased to tell me that he had written unto you yesterday at large, and 
 now forebore to write again because his strength was not yet entire, 
 and therefore commanded me in answer of yours to signify unto you 
 that he very well likes your coming by New Hall, first because it was 
 but little out of your way, secondly because the ladies must have a 
 resting place, and lastly that your Grace may bring him a perfect 
 account of your planting, your deer, and the proceeding of your pale. 
 And if after one day's rest there you then came to the court he hoped 
 you should afterwards be no more long absent from him till your going 
 into France. I then acquainted him, according to the contents of your 
 letter to mein, to what disorder he would cast other important occasions 
 by the want of monies if he were not constant to himself in the matter of 
 the household. I also read to him the relation of the proceedings with 
 the Earl of Middlesex. He had before his coming away declared to 
 the Council his resolution to have the 20,000/. paid. The Lord Steward 
 should send particular creditors to the Earl that he might give them 
 satisfaction in reasonable time, and if the Earl of Middlesex refused to 
 accord them, His Majesty's pleasure is that the extent should proceed 
 without further delay. For the particular of George Bennett, who 
 hath killed his shepherd, His Majesty will hold his hand in it till your 
 coming according to your desire.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIP8 COMMISSION. 183 
 
 [Indorsement within. Confirmation by the King of appointment by 
 the Duke of Buckingham, High Admu-al of England, of Josua Down- 
 ing, to be " Commissioner for the survey of our ships," vice Thomas 
 Norreys, deceased.] 
 
 1624-5, January 30. Indorsement by Sir J. Coke. "Copy of 
 3 letters, one from the Infanta, the other from Count Mansfeld, the 
 third from Jacques Brnneau, delivered to his Majesty at Newmarket by 
 the Agents for Spain and the Archduchess, and by His Majesty 
 delivered to me. 
 
 1625, Janvier 30, de Bruxelles. The Archduchess Isabella to King 
 James I. 
 
 A tres haut ties excellent et tres puissant Prince le Roi de la Grande 
 Bretagne. 
 
 J'ai recu la lettre qu'il a plu a votre majeste - m'ecriro le 3 de ce 
 mois. L'agent du Roi mon seigneur et le ministre resident en votre 
 cour m'avaient averti de la promesse que vous leur aviez fait de 
 bouche que les levees qui se faisaient en votre royaume pour etre com- 
 mandees par Ernest de Mansfeld n'etaient pas pour entrer toucher ne 
 commettre aucun acte d'hostilite en ces Etats. II m'n semble bon de 
 faire repeter a votre Majeste ce qu' entondus de l'agent de mon dit 
 seigneur Roi et du mien. II vous plaira leur ajuster pleine foi et 
 creance en ce qu'ils vous en diront, esperant que vous y mettrez 
 prornptement le remede convenable. 
 
 A. Isabel. 
 
 1625, Janvier 19-9, de Douvres. Copie de la lettre ecrite par 
 Ernest de Mansfeld a son altesse Madame la Serenissime Infante. 
 
 Comme il a plu au serenissime Roi de la Grande Bretagne me donner 
 la charge et commandement des troupes de ses sujets qui sont destines 
 au recouvrement des etats de Messeigneurs ses Enfant?, et que pour y 
 parvenir et passer, il est expedient et necessaire qu'ils ecornent quelques 
 endroits des terres et seigneuries de votre altesse serenissime : je dois 
 la supplier de m'en donner la permission sous promesse et protestation 
 que je fais de ne commettre ni permettre aucum aete d'hostilite ou 
 violence, mais gagner pays et suivre notre route avec le plus de. diligence 
 qu'il sera possible. 
 
 A tres haut tres excellent et tres puissant Prince le sere- 
 nissime Roi de la Grande Bretagne. 
 
 Jacques Bruneau, chevalier, conseiller et Secretaire d'Etat pour les 
 affaires des Pays-Bas et de Bourgogne pies la personne du Roi 
 Catholique resident presentement pour ses affaires en la cour de votre 
 Majeste. 
 
 Asks redress for capture by Captain Herriot of the ship Neptune 
 and her cargo belonging to Sauveur Rodriguez Blase d'Aquila et 
 Ferdinand de Brignola marchands et citoyens de (Cartagene ?) et 
 Burgos. 
 
 1624-5, January 30. Seething Lane, London. Sir John Wolsten- 
 holme. (No address). 
 
 I send the appraisement of the King's ship or pinnace called the 
 Lions IVhelp, upon my Lord Admiral's warrant that the said pinnace 
 might be prepared and made ready for the intended voyage for 
 discovery of the North-West passage. The warrant was not so large 
 as to give power to the Commissioners to cause the said pinnace to be 
 brought into the River of Thames. Sir Dudley Digges and myself 
 attended two days to speak with his Grace but could find no convenient 
 opportunity. The zeal I have to the furtherance of this worthy and
 
 184 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 hopeful action of the discovery of the N-W. passage (for the setting 
 forth whereof I have amongst my friends raised a reasonable good 
 stock) causeth me at the present to make use of your love. The time 
 is already far spent and if we cannot have the pinnace delivered us 
 with all possible speed our voyage will be quite overthrown. I pray you 
 take notice that this pinnace is not to be given, but the Duke is pleased 
 to adventure with us and we are to allow him so much adventure for 
 her as the appraisement cometh to, so as the King is first to give her to 
 the Duke and then the Duke is to make over to us in consideration of 
 of his adventure. I pray you send me with all speed the warrant for 
 drawing the privy seal, the Duke's warrant for delivery of the pinnace. 
 You shall not only oblige us to requite your extraordinary love, but I 
 think this hopeful enterprize will (by God's help) prove so successful 
 that one day there will be further means thereby to recompense your 
 pains and love therein. 
 
 16245, January 30. London.-^ W. Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The Prince is launched. A petition to my Lord Duke's grace 
 for an order to the Admiralty Court to hear the case between ray 
 adversary and me. 
 
 1624-5, January 30. Petition to the King. James Belfore. 
 For a reference for stay of proceedings against him as bail for Wil- 
 liam Farrar in a suit by William Heme. 
 
 1624-5, January. (Notes of Sir John Coke, Master of Requests.) 
 
 2nd Audience at Newmarket. 
 
 James Palmer, to exchange his houses and lands in Royston, where- 
 upon the King's house is built for the Manor of Spaldwiek, Hunts, and 
 parcel of the Manor of Wingham, in Kent, which he hath on lease. 
 
 William Shaw, to have 2,000/. in money for so much granted and 
 not recovered out of the arrearages due from Sir Nicholas Bason out 
 of the liberties of Bury by him detained from the Crown, or for his 
 Majesty's interest in that suit. 
 
 Christopher Vernon in recompense for his merit certified by the 
 late Lord Treasurer in discovering the usurpation upon the liberties of 
 Bury and other services, to have a lease for 31 years or three lives of 
 certain fee farm rents to the value of 69/. detained from his Majesty. 
 
 Lord Andover, Sir Robert Carr, and Mr. Gibb, feoffees for the Earl 
 of Somerset, that 2,050/. unpaid of 7,000/. by the Earl of Middlesex 
 may be discharged by the Earl out of Shirley's lands according to his 
 Maty 8 grant, and so much of his land freed from extent for his fine: 
 and that 2,000/. remain of 9,000/. debt may also be allowed. 
 
 Jarningham, for the arrearages and a lease for 31 years of all rents 
 for Castle Guard, and recovered upon charters or fee farms which have 
 been detained from the King, and shall be recovered at the petitioner's 
 suit, who will account to his Majesty for a fourth part of the yearly 
 profits for his rent. 
 
 Sir George Marshall, for 50/. and 30/. due from Mr. James for spoil 
 of woods, and for 20/. from Bridgman, as part of 500/. promised for 
 building of a new lodge at Malmesbury. 
 
 Widow Hammond, for a privy seal to discharge 64/. due for the 
 arrear of 32 quarters of oats reserved upon the lease of Chertsey Mills, 
 which her husband purchased of the undertakers for 125/. due for 
 wages. 
 
 Aquila Weeks, for order to the Lord Treasurer to make speedy pay- 
 ment of 1,200/. disbursed upon bills signed by the Lords for the 
 prisoners in the Gatehouse.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 185 
 
 Sir Thomas Challenor's children, for the monies due to their father Coke MSS- 
 for alum works. 
 
 Edward Aston, successor of Robert Haford in the Jewel House. 
 
 Markham Thorold, that his pension may proceed. 
 
 Mr. Smith, for leave to try his right in the parsonage of Upton 
 against a pretended title of his Majesty. 
 
 .Dr. Allen, Featley, a-:id Mason, that the Earls of Worcester and 
 Pembroke, Marquess Hamilton, and the llishop of Winton may hear 
 and determme their complaints against Dr. Arian, of Corpus Christi 
 College, in Oxford. 
 
 Thomas Clerk, postmaster for packets, for increase of allowance. 
 
 Sir Henry Mallorie and others, for renewing their order to the Lord 
 Treasurer for passing their grant to find mines. 
 
 Francis Bull, that the Council of War finding him a fit man to com- 
 mand the castle in Purbeck shall take order with the Lady Hatton not 
 to debar him of his Majesty's grant. 
 
 George Wood, printer, for restitution or recompense for his goods 
 taken by the stationers for printing written works for which he had 
 license. 
 
 John Wiseman, for a reference to the Lord Keeper in Sir Win. 
 Smith's cause, and another to the Master of the Wards in Acton's 
 cause. 
 
 Boisloree, for a reference in his cause against Wood. 
 
 1624-5, January. Richard Patten, for his Majesty's letters to the Dean 
 and Church of Gloucester, that he may enjoy a cook's place granted him 
 by patent, and have some recompense for the s-ame. 
 
 Henry Greenwood, for permission to the Lord Archbishop and Bishop 
 of London to get for him a private collection by the ministers in their 
 dioceses, if they find it fit. 
 
 Agne^ Brown, for order to the Judge of the Admiralty to try her 
 husband's offence, and certify whether it be fit for his Majesty's grace. 
 
 Sir Win. Brinker, for a reference to the Lord Treasurer to consider 
 of his rent for the issues of jurors. 
 
 Sir Henry Crooke, Anthony Rovvse, for like allowances with the 
 auditors of 22 shillings for ingrossing the bishop's amounts for subsidies, 
 fifteens. 
 
 Thomas Barret, for a reference of his grievances against Sir Simon 
 Harvey. To be signed. 
 
 Mr. Parker, his dispensation to enjoy a bedel's place, being re- 
 commended by the Master and Seniors of Trinity College. 
 
 Joshua Downing's letter for his allowances due in the Navy. 
 
 Gabriel Marsh, his lease in Palatinate of Chester. 
 
 Thomas Packer, for renewal of a grant of the benefit of the finc3 of the 
 Lady Markham and Sandford. 
 
 Sir Matthew Brend, for some speedy course to restore his possession 
 and secure his life from Sir Sigismond Zinzan, his father-in-law, an 
 outlaw, and who resisteth ordinary justice. 
 
 1624-5, January. De Bois Loree. 
 
 The Report in his cause, signed John Coke. Thomas Coventrye. 
 
 1624-5, February 21. Aboard the Guard/and in the Downs. 
 Sir Richard Bingley to Sir John Coke, Knight, Master of the Requests, 
 at his house. 
 
 Describes a violent tempest ; 2 ships at once drove thwart my 
 hawse which I could by no means avoid nor clear myself of until
 
 186 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 I had sunk one of them directly and so bruised the other as I 
 doubt she is in little better state. We are much disabled for sea 
 until we be repaired, therefore I have writ unto my Lord Admiral 
 of our misfortunes and that the rest of the King's ships may proceed 
 tie voyage and that His Grace may be pleased my ship may come up 
 for Chatham either to be repaired or changed. A Hamburger is stayed 
 by me at Dover who is laden with cordage and masts. I should have 
 stayed another laden with powder by order from my Lords but I have 
 not heard of her sine e this storm. I pray jour servant Thacker may 
 deliver this letter to my wife. 
 
 1624-5, February 28. Navy paper. Indorsed : " To my very loving 
 friends Sir Rich. Bingley, knight, Captain of His Majesty's ship the 
 Guardland, Captain Love, Captain of His Majesty's ship the 
 Bonaventure, Captain Porter,' Captain of His Majesty's ship the 
 Convertine ; and Captain Wilbraham, Captain of His Majesty's ship 
 the Mary Rose, and to any and every of them, or in their absence to 
 the Masters of their ships or to any of them, in the Downs or elsewhere 
 these : 
 
 Copy. After my hearty commendations. According to His Majesty's 
 pleasure and letters unto me from the Right Honourable my Lords of 
 His Majesty's Privy Council upon the resolution taken by His Majesty 
 by the advice of their Lordships upon the complaint of the East India 
 Company touching the execution of Amboyna. These are in His 
 Majesty's name straitly to require and charge you and every of you to 
 employ your effectual care and diligence to embark stay and seize into 
 your custody en His Majesty's behalf wheresoever you may find them 
 such and so many of the ships and goods of the company of the East 
 Indies of the Netherlands only as are either homeward or outward 
 bound. And if the said ships shall quietly submit themselves, that 
 then an especial care be had both for the safe keeping and preservation 
 of the said ships and goods, and fair usage of the men and others 
 employed or sent in them to be detained in safe keeping till His 
 Majesty's further order therein. In performance whereof you nor any 
 of you may not fail to use all possible and effectual care and diligence 
 So 1 bid you heartily farewell. From Court. 
 
 1624-5. February. Petition. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Sir Edward 
 Greville's brief of his cause against Essex." 
 
 " The true state of the cause in the Court of Requests between 
 Mrs. Mary Essex plaintiff in forma pauperis and Sir Edward Greville 
 defendant." 
 
 1624-5, March 3. Dorset House. Mary Countess of Dorset to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 John Legbe her kinsman arrested, asks that bail be procured. 
 
 1(524-5, March 9. Deal. Sir Richard Bingley to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Master of the Requests, at his house on Garlick Hill. 
 
 I am here waiting an opportunity of fine weather to go to work upon 
 this wreck. I went to Sir John Hippisley to Dover Castle, who told 
 me that he had sent a complaint against me to my Lord Duke of injury 
 and affronts done by me and my people to the liberties of the ports and 
 the officers thereof. This I shall say that if he or any other can make it 
 appear that I have prejudiced my Lord Warden (but advanced his 
 Grace's profit all I possible could do), then let me want his favour and 
 yours : his displeasure against me is for taking of his kinsman Burley 
 and questioning him for piracy. Besides he hath given it out that I am 
 not to stay in this employment and told me that another had great hope
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 187 
 
 of it. Now we are upon fair terms again but I doubt he is an uncertain 
 man. 
 
 1624-5, March 14. Ipswich. Captain Edward Gyles to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Masters of Requests. 
 
 At my coming to Ipswich I find here 14 sail of ships which have 
 been fitted for His Majesty's service and now are pressing of men for 
 them and to-morrow I do go to Harwich and then to Woodbridge and 
 Aldborough. 
 
 1624-5, March 15. George Calvert, Lord Baltimore, to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Master of the Requests acd one of the Commissioners for 
 His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 I intend shortly, God willing, a journey for Newfoundland to visit 
 a plantation which I begun there some few years since. I hired the 
 ship called "he Jonathan now in the river for the transportation of 
 myself and sui h plants as I carry with me. Since I understand she is 
 stayed to serve for the King, to which it is good reason that all my 
 occasions sin uld give place. But I am by that means utterly dis- 
 appointed : nd you should do me a great favour to clear her and her 
 mariners and also the Peter Bonadventure for which I contracted 
 for carrying over cattle. Whatever favour you show me herein my 
 Lord Duke will not be displeased with it. 
 
 1624-5, March W. Theobalds. George Villiers, Duke of Bucking- 
 ham, to the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Having acquainted the Ambassador of the French King with the list 
 you sent me of those ships which you thought would be most fit for 11 is 
 Majesty's service he is well content and accepteth of them. Wherefore 
 these are to pray and require you to take present order for the making 
 of these eight ships ready with all convenient speed and therein to gi\e 
 the Ambassador all the satisfaction you can. 
 
 1624-5, March 16. Theobalds. Duke of Buckingham to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 The Hamburger perished in the Downs has not been weighed by 
 Sir John Ilippisley and Sir R d Bingley. Ships and cables of greater 
 burthen and strength are to be employed. Mr. Burrell to assist with 
 advice. 
 
 1624-5, March 17. Theobalds. George Villiers, Duke of Bucking- 
 ham, to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Masters of Reque.-t to His 
 Majesty. 
 
 I have herein sent you a letter which I received from the Lord 
 Baltimore craving the release of five ships wherein I have forborne 
 to give any answer until I shall understand from you whether it will 
 not be inconvenient or prejudicial to His Majesty's service to discharge 
 them. I pray speak with the Lord Baltimore about it as well con- 
 cerning those ships his Lordship mentioneth to be stayed in the West 
 as these in the Thames. 
 
 Captain Mason's Report that the two ships may proceed with Lord 
 Baltimore &c. in April to Newfoundland, and 10 days after their arrival 
 may be despatched thence laden with fish for the use of His Majesty's 
 ships and supply men they may want. 
 
 1624-5, March 22. Chatham. Josua Downynge to Sir John Coke. 
 For the reformation of boatswains. They should not be allowed to 
 hold the place of master and leave their own to a deputy. 
 
 1625, March 25. Chatham Dock. Josua Downynge to the Commis- 
 sioners of His Majesty's^Navy.
 
 188 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 I have never an able man about these parts to be a boatswain for 
 the Reformation excepting such as you have formerly cast off for 
 misdemeanours. I hear that Mr. Cooke and Mr. Cannon are suitors 
 to go master of their own ships. If you allow them to have their 
 charge of boatswains and to go masters their proper ships may be fittest 
 for them, but then when the masters hand to the boatswains bill 
 of expense and wastes given up at the end of the voyage the master 
 and boatswain being but one man I refer to your better judgments. 
 Mr. Nicoll the boatswain of the Ann Royal presented Thomas 
 Rabnett to be his deputy, pretending thr.t my Lord Duke commanded 
 him to attend upon him over into France and to be master of the barge 
 to transport the Princess in her journey. I entreat you that every man 
 may attend upon his proper service. They hardly go aboard their 
 ships once a week, and for lodging aboard I cannot learn of one night in 
 five weeks, and in this quarter of a year since I came hither some one 
 hath been five or six times at London from their charge. There should 
 be instructions from my Lord Duke's Grace to enjoin them to lodge 
 aboard their ships in their turn and to diet aboard, which are things 
 ancient necessary and laudable. Pressed men do not come, or leave 
 and do not return. The Vanguard is rigging. I pray you send 
 down men for graving and rigging. We intend (God willing) to 
 grave the Ann Royal, the Rainbow, Lion and Assurance this 
 spring. I crave your advice what I shall do concerning the saluting 
 my Lord Duke's Grace with ordnance from the forts and ships. 
 Grange, the master of the George drumbler, and the gunner of her I 
 will send up, but they intended no evil. The master stamping to the 
 gunner to give fire to the ordnance, which he unadvisedly and ignorantly 
 did before we were clear of the ordnance, whereby we received our hurts 
 and one poor man his life : but I earnestly entreat you to spare them 
 from uunishment for that wherein God dealt so mercifully with us; and 
 my wounds are perfectly whole and my body healthful. 
 
 [Notes endorsed by Sir J. Coke. Power to examine upon oath in 
 the new commission : AV m Wills for a purser recommended by Sir 
 Richard Bingley, dwellers at Chatham known to Mr. Burrell : apparel 
 for mariners : ensigns]. 
 
 Note by Sir John Coke. The progress of sea services. Sketch of 
 the destination of the English fleet in 1621 (under the late King) and 
 preparations for 1625. 
 
 [Endorsed on a petition to the King of Marck Ladustchz of Lisenstadt 
 in Austria for the redelivery to him of 4 certificates or passports.] 
 
 1625, March 25. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Master of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 The King slept this afternoon from one or two o'clock tiil fi\e and 
 then waked being in a great sweat, and as they feared failing into his fit. 
 I humbly beseech God to give him strength and hear the prayers of him 
 that is your assured to command. 
 
 The Duke came to Court even as His Majesty waked about five 
 o'clock. Its there said the King had by the help of nature only 27 
 stools. 
 
 [Indorsed, The King's state of health.] 
 
 1625, March 25. Chatham Dock.- -Ed. Boate to Sir John Coke r 
 Kn l , one of His Majesty's Masters of Request and a Commissioner of 
 his highness Navy. 
 
 Report on long Prussia deals. Excess in provision of deals sent from 
 Deptford. Many refused being narrow, sappy, or pithshaken.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 189 
 
 1624-5, March 27. Portsmouth. Matthew Brooke to Sir John coke mss. 
 Coke. 
 
 If the intended number of men be pressed out of their ships the 
 Adventurers voyage from (South) Hampton for the fishing will be 
 undone. 
 
 1625, March 29. Chatham Dock. Josua Downynge to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, at his house on Garlick Hill in London. 
 
 The proclamation we have in the most solemn manner we could 
 proclaimed and published before all the officers and chief ministers of 
 the Navy who with great joy and acclamation together with the shooting 
 off of ordnance both in the forts and ships accompanied the solemnity ; 
 the second part at night with bonfires and thanksgiving and psalms we will 
 express some part of our joy and finish so the present ceremony. The 
 watch doubled, Mr. Wilson to lie aboard the Victory being the upper- 
 most ship next Rochester Bridge, and Mr. King to lie aboard the 
 Prince next the Barricade. Gunners to sell powder to repay their 
 charges. This day we intend to grave the Anne Royal, then the 
 Rainbow, the Red Lion, and the Assurance this spring (tide) and the 
 next spring the other five. The Entrance rigged and ready to sail. 
 The pressed men that have not appeared or have run away there must 
 be some course taken to punish. The boatswains errors (in ropes and 
 powder) I expected not to be amended because they have become so 
 habitual that they esteem them not to be faults. My wounds are sound 
 and perfectly cured. 
 
 1625, March 29. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippislev to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I have dealt with Mr. Hugesson about his ship and find her quite 
 ready for service, and his request is that his brother that was to have 
 gone in her may go captain in her. I did write to my lord last week 
 of seven ships taken by the Dunkirks, and this week there is oue more 
 that was sent with oaks for the Duke of Brunswick . . . Three of 
 these be of the town of Dover. . . . We hold an Admiral Court 
 at Dover. I pray you let me hear what is to be said for my Lord's 
 right for the prizes that were brought in question by Sir Richard 
 Bingley. ... I pray you forget not to put in my uncle in your 
 list for a captain. 
 
 1625, March 29. W. Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Hemp to be bought. Cordage to be sent for to Russia. 200 tons 
 cordage to be made of small band hemp. Muscovia yarn 100 tons. 
 
 1625, March 31. Chatham. Josua Downynge to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Conditiou of ships. Discontents of boatswains. They have so far 
 run out of frame that there must be a strict hand to bring some into 
 frame again. Pressed men have run away. 
 
 1624-5, March. Notes by Sir John Coke (Master of Requests and 
 Commissioner for the Navy) relating to delivery of orders made by the 
 Lord Admiral at the instance of the East India Company and sent to 
 Sir Richard Bingley and other captains commanding ships in the 
 Downs to intercept Dutch vessels leaving Flushing to pass the Strait 
 betwixt Dover and Calais full laden and pestered with women and 
 children. Sir R. Bingley will not go to sea alleging his ship is 
 unserviceable, and that he is to wait upon the Hamburger that was 
 sunk.
 
 190 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 
 
 1625, April 1. Exeter. Thomas Bridgeman to James Bagg, 
 Esquire, at London or elsewhere. 
 
 Finding a great number of seamen attending to be pressed I impor- 
 tuned the Commissioners, Sir John Elliott our Vice- Admiral, our Major, 
 and Baronet Chudleigh, to proceed in pressing the said mariners and 
 others, and showed His Majesty's late commission under the Great Seal, 
 yet all this prevailed not. Sir J. Elliott and the other Commissioners 
 showing a new command under the hands of the Lords of the Privy 
 Council, that no proclamation was come from the new King. They 
 dismissed the seamen till a further summons, forbidding them till then 
 to set to sea. 
 
 1625, April 2. Ashton. Sir George Chudleigh, Bar 1 , to James 
 Bagg, Esq re , at Exeter. 
 
 Why the prests at Exeter proceeded not. A doubt whether the 
 King's death did not end the Commission. The mariners that appeared 
 500 or 600 in the morning dispersed till only 200 remained after they 
 heard of the King's death. I have received copies of the proclamations ; 
 they were most welcome to me because they tend to the service of our 
 most excellent King Charles, whom God preserve for the good of His 
 Church and the prosperity of His Majesty's kingdoms. 
 
 1625, April 2. Exeter. James Bagg to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty at his house in Bow 
 Lane. 
 
 An hour after I saw you I took horse for Devon and was at Exeter 
 upon Saturday morning. Sir John Elliott came to the Commissioners, 
 resolved not to proceed, which took off the rest. Be assure 1 whatever 
 are his ways he shall not more than he hath hinder the business, but 
 what is in the power of a diligent and a careful man I will perform. I 
 pray, as you shall ever command me in the country, to be my friend and 
 write to Mr. Nicholas, and I beseech you inform my Lord of his 
 carriage. I do not doubt but to supply Devon's number with good men* 
 
 1625, April 4. Note endorsed by Sir J. Coke. The distribution of 
 the Fleet into squadrons (three, the Dutch to make the fourth) and 
 sorting them with flags, ensigns, and streamers; waste cloths and top 
 armour to be added. 
 
 1625, April 4. Philip Burlamachi. A Mons r Jean Coke Chevalier 
 Maistre des Requestes pres S. M. 
 
 Concerning the seventh ship under contract to serve the French. 
 
 1625, April 6. Inner Temple. R. Willis to Sir John Coke. For 
 Mr. Richardson as to his failure in supplying saltpetre. 
 
 1625, April 11. Yarmouth Castle. Captain John Burley to Sir 
 John Coke, Garlick Hill. 
 
 Has sent his two sons to tender their service. 
 
 1625, April 18. Fowey. James Bagg to Sir J. Coke, Knight, one of 
 the Masters of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 I had help of Sir Edward Seymour, Sir George Chudleigh, Sir 
 William Strode, the Mayors of Exeter, Plymouth, and Dartmouth, 
 Sir Edward Giles and my cousin Drake. Opposition of Sir John 
 Elliot. Ere the fleet come to Plymouth many mariners will be returned 
 out of their voyages and then the south of Devon and Cornwall may 
 afford 100 good men more.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION". 
 
 191 
 
 1625, April 14. (Endorsed by Sir John Coke "John's 
 at Cambridge from Christmas 1624 till Lady day 1625.") 
 
 From Christmas to our Lady day. 
 
 Imp 8 
 
 for cloth to make 
 
 a pair 
 
 of cuffs 
 
 It. for Aristotles Ethic. 
 
 Graec. 
 
 & Sal u st. 
 
 
 
 points 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 >' 
 
 a knife 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 )> 
 
 mending his clothes 
 
 - 
 
 
 
 2 pairs of gloves 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 j> 
 
 a looking glass 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 Cooper's dictionary 
 
 Appollinar. his Psalms in Greek verse 
 
 binding his maps and paper inserted 
 
 ink - 
 
 coals and turfs - 
 
 fooling a pair of stockings and piecing 
 
 a paper book - 
 
 2 stools for his chamber 
 
 a key for his chamber door 
 
 a curtain for his study window 
 
 hiring a horse to take the air 
 
 candles this quarter 
 
 shoes and a pair of goloshes 
 
 fasting night suppers 
 
 washing his linen - 
 
 making his bed - 
 
 chamber rent - 
 
 commons and sizing 
 
 tuition - 
 
 Add to this remaining of the last bill 
 
 Money received for the discharge of this bill. 
 
 
 
 Rec. of your man January 24th 1624 - 10 
 Mr. George Coke, March 8th 1624 10 
 
 for 2 gowns, a table, and a surplice 2 
 
 charges Coke MSS 
 
 s. 
 
 d. 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 8 
 
 3 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 6 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 8 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 7 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 3 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 1 
 
 6 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 5 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 7 
 
 6 
 
 5 11 
 
 5 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 9 17 
 3 16 10 
 
 13 13 10 
 
 s. 
 
 
 
 
 
 12 
 
 22 12 
 
 Out of which 13/. 13*. \0d. being substracted there 
 remains in my hands for present quarter 
 
 8/. 18a. 2d. 
 
 John Coke to Lord Conway, 
 
 1625, April 20. London. Sir 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 The offence of Peter Rycault in selling our ships and ordnance to 
 strangers is considerable, the Council table having already bound the 
 delinquent in 5,000/. to be answerable for this fact. A*ks that the 
 determination may be referred to that most honourable commission 
 wherein the Lord Treasurer, the Lord Admiral, the Lord Chamberlain, 
 your Lordship and the Lord Brooke are joined.
 
 192 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1625, April 24. Poplar. W. Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 Every yard to take charge of ten ships. All their men pressed. 
 Going to Chatham to set forward sheathing and the " Prince." 
 
 1625, April 27. Chatham. Josua Dovvnynge to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The Prince hath 350 men, the Vantguard 180. These to be sent 
 down to Gillingham to take in victuals. He expects warrants for his 
 authority. All the ships ready in good time. 2,000 yards of old 
 canvas for parcelling and tarpauling. Ropemakers refuse to work 12 
 hours. 2d. a night required to lodge sick men. There hath been no 
 prest at Minehead, Bridge water, and some other ports. 100 men were 
 sent from Barnstaple into Ireland. These will be returned in a short 
 time. When the ships are at Plymouth a new prest may be sent to 
 these places.- 
 
 1625, April 27. Chatham Dock. Peter Buck to Sir John Coke. 
 
 God hath laid upon me such weakness of body by a violent fever 
 that I am not able to give the least furtherance to this sea of my office 
 business which now burthens me. I am an importunate suitor to you 
 and the rest of the Commissioners to give me leave to execute my office 
 by deputy. 
 
 1625, April 29. Notes by Sir J. Coke. The present state of the 
 fleet. 
 
 Ann Royal, Rainbow, Lion, Assurance, Dreadnought, St. George, 
 St. Andreiu, Swiftsurc, Reformation, Bonadventure, Convcrtine, Marie 
 Rose. All these ships are provided and furnished so as in the office 
 of the Navy there will be no defect or fear of backwardness to be at 
 sea by the end of May. For men, there are pressed out of the west 
 1,950 men. About 1,000 at Chatham, the pressers northward are sent 
 away for 2,400 men. 
 
 20 merchant ships (named) ready for the most pai't. 47 others 
 (named), 20 of Ipswich. There want 2 ships for hospitals. For the 
 victuals, Sir Allen Apsley's report, bread, beer, beef, pork, peas, cheese, 
 butter, fish (cod and ling, or poor John), rice, oatmeal, and oil. For 
 apparel a bargain is in treaty. Ordnance and munition. 
 
 The Vanguard and 7 French ships. We have sealed the con- 
 tract with the Ambassador. A privy seal to be drawn for His Majesty 
 to give allowance to the lending of these ships. 
 
 For Ireland, the Antelope going forth, Sir Thomas Button to be 
 prepared. 
 
 For the fetching over the Queen. The Prince Roijal ready, the 
 only doubt will be how she can go out of the river which will require a 
 leading wind. The Convertine, Marie Rose, and the Entrance are 
 ready at sea to attend her. 
 
 To secure the ships at Chatham, the moorings there to be strengthened 
 with chains. 
 
 The foregoing notes are endorsed on a letter (1625, March 31) from 
 Thomas Alured to Sir J. Coke asking that he may be remembered to 
 my Lord Bishop for a burgess-ship. 
 
 1625, April. Project for a West India Company. Subscriptions to 
 be obtained from Nobility, the Church, Corporations, &c. 
 
 1625, May 2. H.M. Ship the Entrance in the Downs. Sir 
 Richard Bingley to Sir John Coke, Knight, Master of the Requests 
 and Commissioner for the Navy, at his house on Garlick Hill in 
 London. 
 
 (For His Majesty's especial affairs haste post haste. Postmasters' 
 notes. From Deal half an hour pact one iu the afternoon, at Sandwich
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 193 
 
 three of the clock in the afternoon, Canterbury half an hour past five Coke MSS. 
 in the afternoon, Sittingbourne at past eight at night. Received at 
 Rochester past 11 at night.) 
 
 J am even now returned from the northward into the Downs where 
 I met with my Lord Duke his countermand for my further proceeding 
 in that business but it came too late At Orford Ness I stayed 3 days, 
 at last word was brought that the two ships would not be ready of 
 3 days more, whereupon I came away. My being upon that coast did 
 no harm for that there had been some small picking pirates lately that 
 way. Where the rest of the King's ships are 1 know not. 
 
 1G25, May 3. Chatham. Henry Goddard to Sir John Coke. 
 
 My suit is that you would be pleased now at the Lord Admiral's 
 coming down to commend my poor worth unto his Grace that 1 may 
 be placed an assistant to Mr. Burrell in these great affairs of His 
 Majesty's service in the Navy that so my salary which is now but 20/. 
 per annum in extra may be made 40/., which first fruits of my increase? 
 1 shall good Sir be ready to render upon the accomplishment hereof as 
 a thankful token of my unfeigned love for your pains in my behalf. 
 
 1625, May 4. Aboard the Neptune. Sir Ferdinand Gorges to 
 Sir J. Coke. 
 
 To have Captain Giles go captain of his ship. I know your access to 
 my Lord Duke's grace. 
 
 1625, May 6. Plymouth. James Bagg to the Commissioners of 
 His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 I send the perfected books of the press. Business of this nature 
 hath few friends and less tongues to speak well of the actors care or 
 service. Such men as we take wen? the best, only let me advise that 
 their own reports carry no credit, for they will, in hope to avoid the 
 service, disparage themselves for this business. I have not spared my 
 friends nor burthened those that least affected me more than my 
 nearest acquaintance. I and my people are free from bribery and 
 corruption: if base scandal give such a report be surety one to the 
 other for me that 1 am free of such looseness and an honest man. 
 1 more value your particular respects than the hope of reward. 
 
 1625, May 9. Tower Street. Sir William Russell to Sir John 
 Coke, Master of Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 My desire is that you would be pleased to subscribe my other 
 weighty business, and that 1 may have the same tomorrow at our 
 meeting before I go to the Lord Treasurer, which is about 4 of the 
 clock. Scott hath been here at my house to intimate that the sickness 
 is over against Sir Thomas Smythe's house, and therefore the Commis- 
 sioners will meet at my house. 
 
 1G25, May 11. Sir Edward Barrett, ' Ambassador for Fiance." to 
 Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The bearer desires a privilege and security for his mariners. 
 
 1625, May 12. Dover. James Hughssen the Younger to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 At this present layeth in this haven of Dover a fair goodly ship, 
 English built, having at present 16 cast pieces, the ship of burden 
 near upon 3(H) tons, and hath ports in her to place 24 pieces ordnance. 
 The said ship came from Portugal last with merchants, who 
 carried the said goods directly for Rotterdam in Holland. The 
 Master, Mr. Watson, intendeth to go with the said ship and ordnance 
 for St. Lucar in the Kingdom o( Spain. Notwithstanding he hath 
 been advised not to proceed by reason he had carried his goods from 
 
 U 24903. s
 
 194 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 St. Uvalls (Setuval) in Portugal directly for Holland whereby his said 
 ship was or should be confiscated coming in Spain, and that some in 
 this town would give notice thereof: also advertising him of the 
 danger to trade with such warlike ships as his at this time in Spain. 
 
 1625, May 12. Notes of first audience at Whitehall. 
 
 Selections from the Notes of Petitions. 
 
 Sir W. Constable, Baronet, to compound for his remainder in the 
 Manors of Flamborough and Holme, which their ancestors have held 
 since the time of William Rufus. 
 
 Arnold Fotsissen to have his grant revived for the sole making of 
 gowns after a new fashion. 
 
 Widow Cassaubon for his pension of 300/. and arrearages. 
 
 Henry Gosnold to have his patent restored of the place of tine 
 Judge of the Verge. 
 
 Wife and children of Elias Jolley, his Majesty's saddler, for a debt of 
 2,084/. 
 
 Thomas Corbin for a reference to the Lord Chief Justice to relieve 
 him against his landlord who hath spoiled his goods, library, and 
 manuscripts. 
 
 Lord Brooke and John Shotbolt to confirm King James his grant of 
 400 acres for Sedgmoor. 
 
 Sir John Hacker for a patent for the sole preparing and selling of 
 seacole after his manner. 
 
 Francis Earnshaw's widow, late wife of a graver, having lost a ship 
 and therein their estate, pray for a collection. 
 
 Sir Henry Lee for payment of arrearages of his pension of 200/. 
 
 Robert Erskine, tailor to King James, for a debt of 1,598/., and to 
 be joined in patent with Black, the King's tailor. 
 
 Bills signed. 
 
 Earl Montgomery, for Enfield Park. 
 Richard Pitt, Gunfounder's place. 
 
 King James' servants. 
 
 Place to furnish linen for His Majesty's body. Doctor Lesly, Chaplain 
 in Ordinary. Postmaster, Sir Peter Saltinstall. Equerry of the Stable. 
 Gentleman Usher quarterly waiter. Sir Anthony Brown, Clerk in the 
 Court. Clerk of the Kitchen. Daniel Clarke, Master cook to his late 
 Majesty. Groom of the Kitchen. Clerk of the Catery. Pages of the 
 Wardrobe. Groom and gentlemen of the Privy Chamber. Groom of the 
 removing Wardrobe. Twelve grooms of the Chamber to the late King to 
 be joined with the 14 now appointed, and to enjoy their late allowances of 
 50/. a piece. John Fanning for his quality of speaking to be admitted 
 to some place in ordinary under His Majesty. Child of the pastry. All 
 the household servants to be confirmed in their places as the chamber 
 is. Yeoman of the slaughter house. John Lowen, porter, who bought 
 his place, being a player, for 200/., to he confirmed in it. Gent. Har- 
 binger. Yeoman of the cross bows. Laundress of the board. Footman. 
 Groom of the Privy Chamber. His Majesty's Comedians to be sworn 
 again in ordinary. Master workman of the Armoury. George Hali- 
 burton, falconer of his late Majesty in ordinary, being promised the 
 making of a knight was frustrate thereof by his Majesty's death, desireth 
 relief some other way. James Heyden the Archer. Perfumer and 
 Glover. Marshals and Sewers of the Hall, being officers of ancient
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 195 
 
 foundation, 14 Waiters of the Hall who have but 2s. a piece per diem, 
 and 10/. wages, and do service at festival times, to be continued in 
 their places. Alexander Baker, Chirurgeon in Ordinary. Henry 
 Zinzan alias Alexander, in regard of his long service and extreme hurts 
 he has received by Prince Henry and His Majesty which now grow 
 grievous unto him, and being frustrate of a pension given him by Prince 
 Henry prevented by his death, and of a gift from Queen Elizabeth for 
 keeping the Little Park at Windsor, desireth something for his future 
 relief. Clerk of the Wardrobe. Clerk of the Spicery. Robert Raine, 
 Huntsman. Trumpeters. William Gossen, Drum Major. Drummers 
 and Fifersto enjoy their places or their entertainments by patent. 
 
 Queen Ann's servants. 
 
 Page of Her late Majesty's Robes. Master of the Barge to the Queen 
 at her coming. Servant in the Wardrobe of the Beds. Pa^e of the 
 Backstairs. Surveyor of the Wardrobe. Keeper of the Closet. Page 
 of the Presence. 8 Ordinary grooms of the Chamber. Master cook. 
 Auditor. Yeoman Baker for privy diet. Cupbearer. 
 
 King Charles his servants. 
 
 Purveyor for beef and mutton laid out 1,277/. yet unpaid. Purveyor 
 for veal for the privy diet. Carpenter. David Jones having the 
 Apothecary's place in reversion to be joined in patent with E. Taylor 
 who hath obtained his place over his head. Yeoman in the Pantry. 
 Cart-taker. Richard Winne, Huntsman to Prince Henry and His 
 Majesty ever since they had hounds. Yeoman of His Majesty's Tilt 
 staves. Laundress of the Board. Purveyor for wax. J. Woodington, 
 Musician to King James 6 years and to His Majesty in Coparario's music 
 3 years, desireth the place of J. Sturt void by death. George Shires, 
 Apothecary to the Household. Messengers of the Court of Wards. Eldest 
 yeoman of the Pantry to be sworn eldest Serjeant'there. Gent of the Cellar. 
 Thomas Cassar, Clock-keeper desireth to be sworn in, and to have delivered 
 such pieces of greater and small clocks and such form of attendance as 
 His Majesty please to appoint. Eldest Yeoman of the Woodyard. 
 Second Yeoman of the Wine cellar. Keeper of His Majesty's Stables to 
 be joined in keeping of the Mews with the grounds and lodgings to the 
 same and to have halt the profits belonging. Eldest Yeoman of the 
 Scullery. Thomas Kynasion prayeth at this time when all His 
 Majesty's servants taste of his bounty that he may not be neglected. 
 Vestry men having long served His Majesty desire to be sworn into 
 their places as the rest of His Majesty's servants arc Bricklayer 
 and plasterer to Prince Henry. Cutler and Razer to continue his place 
 and have difference betwixt him and the King's tailor referred to my 
 Lord Chamberlain. 
 
 1625, May 13. John Verney to Sir John Coke. 
 For Allestree, convicted of clipping coin. 
 
 1625, May 14. R. Willis to Sir John Coke. 
 
 For Captain Blagden going to sea, inclosing his petition against 
 Thomas Mundy, desires a speedy end of controversy by the Earl of 
 Pembroke, Lord Warden of the Stannaries in Cornwall, where Mundy 
 is tenant of the Manor of Royal Town. 
 
 1(525, May 14. Sir Robert Pye to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The Victualler's privy seals for seamen and landmen amouuteth to 
 97,000/. of which 10,000/. assigned him by Sir W. Russell out of the 
 subsidy he hath not yet received, the lieutenants of the Ordnance to 
 receive 11,250/. more. 
 
 n 2
 
 196 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1626, May 15. Aboard the Prince Royal in the Downs. Captain 
 Thomas Love to Sir John Coke, Knight, and to the rest of His Majesty's 
 Commissioners for his Royal Navy. 
 
 For His Majesty's special service. My Lord Duke was landed at 
 Boulogne the 12th of dicto 4 hours after his departure from Dover. 
 Our wants be the ship with the wardrobes provisions : mats to mat the 
 lodgings and presence : silk flags and streamers : the barge with cloth 
 and materials for her : and a cloth and cushions for the ships pinnaces 
 which will be of good use for the French coast. Trumpets and musi- 
 cians here is none. I find now some 450 persons in the ship and more 
 comes daily from several places out of the King's Household which will 
 not nor can have no denial and more likely to come daily, which doth 
 bring a great expense upon the victuals. 
 
 1625, May 16. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 14 Chests of sword blades stayed. Marie Anne will want victuals 
 within ten days. A Scottish ship bound for Spain. Mr. Hugisson's 
 ship ready. Hollanders have taken a Dunkirk ship, and driven another 
 into Margate. The men are stayed. 
 
 1625, May 20. Hammersmith. Edward Lord Sheffield, to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 For discharge of two seamen who have been pressed, having large 
 families whose maintenance depends on their labour. 
 
 1625, May 20. Austin Friars. Sir John Ogle to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Master of Requests and one of the Commissioners for the Navy, 
 at his house on Garlick Hill. 
 
 I pray you let the ship for the carriage of my provisions and 
 necessaries to Plymouth be appointed to stay for them till such time as 
 my wife shall send unto you which I tike it will be about the time that 
 Sir W m St. Leger (who is shortly exr octed from the Netherlands) shall 
 be ready to go with his provisions. 
 
 1625, May 21. London. Thomas Savage, Viscount Colchester, to 
 Sir John Coke, at his house near Garlick Hill. 
 
 For the discharge of W. Gittins, his pension servant, who has been 
 pressed. 
 
 1625, May 21. Gravesend. Captain Thomas Vaughan to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majestys Masters, of Requests and a Com- 
 missioner of the Navy. 
 
 I sent two gentlemen aboard the Prudence to lie in my cabin, and 
 one man of mine to look unto the same, a lusty fellow that can do his 
 labour at sea. They were going about their own occasions unto my 
 Lord Duke's Grace. The Master will not now allow but one gentleman 
 and two men, they went on their own charge and mine. You may 
 perceive the envy this man hath towards land-men. The biscuit in 
 some bags wanted 14 pounds where one cwt. should have been and some 
 bags not near full. I refer these gentlemen and myself to be righted by 
 you. The master's wife is more than half master. I am ready for the 
 first wind. 
 
 1625, May 22. Aboard the Rain bote at Queenborough. Captain 
 John Chudleigh, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Master of Requests and one. 
 of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 As for our men we have many insufficient, wanting also masters mates 
 and gunners. Our ship is somewhft leaky by reason of worm sting 
 being not sheathed. I irusf if God will bless her she will perform what 
 she is assigned unto.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 197 
 
 162.3, May 22. Aboard the Prince Royal in the Downs at 5 of the CokeJISS 
 clock in the afternoon. Captain Thomas Love, to Sir John Cuke, 
 Knight, and the rest of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy. For 
 His Majesty's special service. Received at Deal at past 7 at night, at 
 Sandwich at 8 at night, at Canterbury half an hour after 9 at night, 
 Sittingbornc at almost 1 morning. Rochester past 4 in the morning. 
 Hartford 8 in the morning. 
 
 Barge with 26 small and weak oars. Longboat, pinnace and skift' 
 fitter to lie in the river than to be sent forth to secure such a ship as 
 this is. Twelve days victuals for 450 men. The coming of the Queen 
 to Boulogne is deferred which will produce a longer time. We have 
 many men entered from remote parts, 8 or 10 of them be already fallen 
 sick, some of them desperate. There is neither money or means to 
 relieve them in the ships, they must not stay, the shore will not receive 
 them. There is not a trumpeter or musician come. I have nut seen an 
 Admiral in this kind sent out without such people of both kinds. There 
 is a want of 6 or 8 able men to place in several parts of the ship to see 
 order performed at the coming of the strangers aboard. Five days that 
 we cannot go from the ship to the shore by if ason of foul weather. 
 
 1625, May 23. Notes of 2nd Audience at Whitehall. 
 
 Sir John Sidley. His father having given monies and lent 100/. to the 
 Benchers of Lincolns Inn to build their chapel which they refuse to 
 repay, to have it referred to Commissioners to hear and end. 
 
 Widow of John Rocher, the inventor of transmuting iron into steel, 
 who being defrauded of the third part of the benefit of his patent by 
 Dr. Flood and Caleb Rowlins died for grief. 
 
 Sir Robert Hyde for 3 parts of 4 of the fines &c. to be by him 
 recovered, being concealed in the liberties of Si. Albans and Chippenham 
 in Wilts. 
 
 Mr. C. Chute having execution against Robert Harcourt for 200/. is 
 interrupted by N. Roberts, Under Sheriff, and Batson an Attorney. 
 
 Jienj : Allured for 20 trees out of the woods of in Holdernes.s 
 
 1o repair the parsonage house (refused). 
 
 Bailiff and Burgesses of Blandford, where no beggar was ever suffered, 
 to have 2 burgesses in Parliament (refused). 
 
 The Woodward in Hampshire, that the Lord Treasurer may examine 
 the wastes of timber by John Chamberlen a recusant. 
 
 Thomas Caesar, His Majesty's clock keeper, to have his grant and fee 
 revived and his son joined with him. 
 
 The Stewardship of Clare. Farl of Suffolk owing )<M)/. and 1,081/. 
 by recognizance to Queen Elizabeth for which bis lands are extended 
 and having above 1,000/. due to him, prays a reference. 
 
 James Crawford for a pardon for James Alestry convicted for clipping 
 money (granted ). 
 
 Bryan O'Borke's lands seized to the Crown. 
 
 Sir Wiiliam Steward to have a Baron of Ireland made Earl in lieu of 
 1,600/. pretended to be due unto him (denied). 
 
 Lady Ingleby, daughter to the Earl of Westmorland, for 2 pensions of 
 200 marks and .50/. to be revived and enlarged for 50 years. 
 
 Robert Andrews to bo recommended to Sutton's Hospital. 
 
 Timothy Pinkney lor a reference of the wrongs received from Sir 
 John Kennedy. 
 
 William Stannard for a lease of the profits of fairs and markets in 
 Romford. Thomas (iririith and 15 others for letters of marque. 
 
 M. Jennings to be Surveyor of the Waterworks. Lady Coningby to 
 have her "Aiise recommended.
 
 198 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Servants to the late King. 
 
 Leonard Poe, Doctor of Physic, Physician for the Household 17 years. 
 Marshals and Sewers of the Hall are by the Lord Chamberlain's 
 certificate declared to have had their beginning in Henry lst's time and 
 continued till Edward 3rd and so with little alteration till His late 
 Majesty's time, having been found very useful at coronations, St. 
 George's and other feasts, masques, plays, maundies, and installments, 
 and in the word of the Whitestaves fit to be continued. Groom of the 
 Cross bows. Serjeant of the Ewry. 12 grooms of the Chamber being 
 destitute of all manner of means, having neither diet nor wages to live 
 upon, what annual allowance will be fit for their maintenance. Groom 
 of the Armoury. Yeoman of the great Bakehouse. Watermen being 
 17 in number desire to be preferred to the Queen at her coming o\er, or 
 to have pensions. 
 
 King Charles his servants. 
 
 Upholsterer and Matman. Huntsfcnan desireth a lease for 40 years of 
 Nanmoith Frith &c. encroached of His Majesty's waste. Stephen 
 Hosier your Majesty's picture drawer in glass in respect of divers 
 services in that kind done and to be done desireth to be sworn your 
 Majesty's servant in ordinary for that quality. Thomas Hobbs, 
 comedian, now left out of the number new sworn, being engaged for the 
 stock debt of their company in 500/. desireth to be sworn as the rest 
 are or to be disengaged. .Robert Thacker, Yeoman of the Tilt staves, 
 having been Prince Henry and your Majesty's sworn servant these 16 
 years and been at great expense towards the Spanish Tourney desireth 
 (in regard His late Majesty's servant in place is an unexperienced man 
 in that service and liveth remote) to be continued. Council Chamber 
 keeper. Henry Clinck-a-dagger, Yeoman of the Bakehouse. Henry 
 Henne, Serjeant of the Carriage, having served Your Majesty 20 years 
 without preferring any suits desireth that his wife being a curious needle- 
 woman may be admitted the Queen's sempstress. Roger Evans, Bellringer 
 to Prince Henry and Your Majesty these 20 years and for causes unknown 
 dismissed, desireth to be restored. Hierome Cook, Clerk to the Council 
 when you were Prince, now destitute of that place and employment 
 desireth to be continued in some place correspondent to his former 
 employment. John Pickering, Your Majesty's Armourer, having served 
 Prince Henry and Your Majesty 17 years being deprived of the same 
 place by one Thomas Stevens, master workman to the late King, being a 
 man unfitting to govern that place, whose wife hath broken up your 
 Majestys' trunk of rich armour and stolen away near 200 studds of 
 gold from the armour presented by the Duke of Savoy, desireth upon 
 due proof thereof to be sworn sole workman or to be joined with 
 Stevens. 
 
 Queen Ann's servants. 
 
 Sir Laurance Hyde, for divers years Attorney General to Queen Ann, 
 obtained licence to plead clients causes within the bar with pre-eminence 
 next the King's learned Counsel ; desireth to be towards her expected 
 Majesty as he was before. Sir Edmond Dowce, Cupbearer 14 years. 
 Simon Killegrew, Groom of the Privy Chamber in Ordinary, to be 
 admitted Groom in Ordinary to Her Majesty that now is. Various 
 servants of the late Queen desire the like places under the Queen that 
 now is. 
 
 1625, May 28. Notes of 3rd Audience at Whitehall. 
 
 Sir Walter Devereux and Mr. Robert Barkley for letters patent for 
 two parks to be made in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Sir George 
 Puckham and John Mitchell, Her Majesty's ward, to have a reference
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 199 
 
 revived which King James had granted to hear and determine their coke MSS. 
 
 differences with Nicholas Martin alias Strelley, a bastard, who else will 
 
 carry away an inheritance of 20 descents in the house of Strelley. 
 
 Al : Steward extraord : carver to King James, who gave him the benefit 
 
 of the pardons of Birch and Daniel the buyers of the Duchess of 
 
 Richmond's stolen plate, but the parties refuse to accept the pardon in 
 
 hope of the parliament, he therefore prayeth for the benefit of the 
 
 forfeiture of the recognizances and of their sureties without mitigation 
 
 which will otherwise be discharged by the pardon in Parliament (granted). 
 
 John Marshal for the benefit of shewing and sole making a new invention 
 
 of a cart of 15c. weight to carry a great burden without help of horses 
 
 and guided but by himself. Edward Egerton, to have the cause decreed 
 
 against him by corruption, (and so adjudged in parliament) by the Lord 
 
 St. Albans, now referred to the Judges at Common Law. Rice Rothergh, 
 
 Esquire, his cause against Sir Robert Mansel. Sir Charles Gerard, grant 
 
 to alien in mortmain to the City of Bristol. Henry Shaw for relief in 
 
 regard he lost a knight baronet given him bv King James which Sir F. 
 
 Cottington enjoyed (denied) Henry Zinzan for a patent for 31 years 
 
 to transport 2,000 calf skins yearly from Boston and Lynn. William 
 
 Baker for 500/. for horses sold and hounds brought to his Majesty 
 
 (denied). Pardon to Alestrie. Warrant for Mr. Treswell. Privy seal to 
 
 the City of York. 
 
 King James his servants. 
 George Shires and Gideon de Laune to be Apothecaries in ordinary. 
 John Pitts, Yeoman of the Pantry, having been a sworn servant in that 
 office 20 years and attended the Lady Elizabeth into Germany with a 
 great charge of plate, desireth to hold the same place. 
 
 Servants to King Charles. 
 Thomas Lupo, composer, and one of your Majesty's Violins, having 
 fitted and enabled Theophilus his son to do your Majesty service, desireth 
 to have him admitted one of your Majesty's Violins. Thomas Caesar, 
 Clock keeper. Roberl Talbois to be readmitted to the keeping of 
 Richmond Bowling Green and all other Bowling Grounds of your 
 Majesty's other houses. 
 
 Persons desiring to be His Majesty's servants. 
 John Ferrour, Esquire. George Washington. 
 
 1625, May 26'. The Downs. Captain Michael Gcere to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight. 
 
 The Rainbow, Lion, Assurance, and Dreadnought all well and 
 in safety after a great deal of foul weather. I found the Prince and 
 others of the Kings ships and those that serve the King of France. 
 Sir R. Bingley gone. 1 desire to know in what ship I shall serve south- 
 wards thai I may fit myself. 
 
 1625, May 26. London. Captain Thomas Levett to Sir John Coke, 
 one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty, at his lodging at the 
 Court. 
 
 Truly Sir this voyage doth ail'eet me exceedingly and 1 doubt not but 
 it will prove honourable, but 1 protest before God I cannot now stay 
 until the Duke return. Stand my friend for a good ship and liberty to 
 meet her at Plymouth : my dwelling is at Sherborne one of the post 
 towns. 
 
 162."), May 26. Charterhouse. Dudley Lord North to Sir John Coke. 
 Master of Requests. 
 
 The bearer Anthony Cope, a gentleman, a soldier, in my opinion 
 honest, and according to my information one who hath carried himself
 
 200 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 fairly in former employments, informeth me yon require something certi- 
 fied in his behalf by a friend of my quality. I could have wished the 
 happiness of being well known to you. 
 
 1625, May 26. J. Coke, Jo. Wolstenholme, Robert Pye, Francis 
 Goston, and Den. Flemyng, Commissioners for the Navy. 
 
 Authorizing certain persons to cause to be brewed 1,660 tons of beer 
 within a fortnight by the brewers specified, for the immediate service of 
 the ships. Robert Orby, Whitefriars, Mrs. Randal, Broken Wharf, 
 Marshall Arnold, Westminster, Thomas Moore, Southwark, William 
 Johnson Hoff, Roger Wilkinson, Whitefriars, W. Burke, Queenhithe, 
 W. Seidgeweake, Fleet Bridge, S. Wiffen, Thames Street, Weeks, 
 Lambeth, H. Zackerley, J. Brand, Tothill Street, E. Morgan, C. Oliver, 
 Bridge House, W. Halfpenny, Greenwich. 
 
 1625, May 27. Aboard H.M. Ship the Prince Royal in the Downs. 
 Captain Love to Sir John Coke, Knight, and to the rest of the Com- 
 missioners for His Majesty's Royal Navy, (hours of despatch at Deal, 
 Canterbury, Sittingbourne, Rochester, and Dart-ford). 
 
 For His Majesty's special service. A deputy of Sir Allen Apsley 
 hath been here and doth understand the time our victuals will continue. 
 We have not above six days. My Lord Duke's provisions be come 
 down and some 20 of his servants with 40 or 50 more that will be here 
 forthwith and others that come daily which must have victuals. I hear 
 the Queen is upon the way towards Boulogne and hath 800 people in 
 Her train besides many more that come in that convoy. Five of His 
 Majesty's and nine merchant ships be come to this place. 
 
 1625, May 27. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Charges of the Adventure. Marie Anne to be victualled. Sent to 
 transport the Earl of Northampton from Boulogne, who comes before 
 the Queen. 
 
 1625, May 27. Sir Simon Harvey to Sir John Coke. 
 Sends a list of the chief butchers of London. 
 
 1625, May 28. Aboard the Vanguard. Captain J. Penington to Sir 
 J. Coke, one of His Majesty's Masters of Requests and principal Com- 
 missioner of His Royal Navy. 
 
 By a few lines on the 22nd of this month from Deal I referred to you 
 whether I should go along with the rest of the fleet for the wafting over 
 of the Queen if the wind or any other occasion stayed us here until that 
 time, which hath fallen out by contrary winds. Yesterday the Knight of 
 Malta (of whom I had speech with you formerly) came aboard and 
 shewed me a commission from the French Ambassador for the principal 
 command of this ship and the rest of the Fleet. I entertained him with 
 nil respect and placed him in the great cabin where he is yet, but upon 
 no other terms than as a passenger until I had further order which 1 do 
 hourly expect to receive resolution in. Yesterday there came here to 
 an anchor a Scottish ship the Gift of Leith from St. Lucas who hath in 
 her four chests of silver to be landed at Calais which is said to belong to 
 Spinola or the Archduchess for the paying of their forces. The Great 
 Neptune is here so that we are now altogether and attend only a fair 
 wind and your further direction to the Mayor of Dover to furnish me 
 with two pilots for the French coast, one for Dieppe, the other lor Havre 
 de Grace. 
 
 Inclosure in the above. 1625, May 27. Dover Castle. Sir John 
 Hippisley to Captain Penington. 1 have sent for these two men and find 
 them willing to attend you if the French Monsieur will give them content,
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 201 
 
 if not I have ended my commission for pressing men in these pjirts : and Coke MSS. 
 the monsieur hath been here and hath promised to give men content lor 
 this service : and for this purpose 1 have sent yon these lines to let yon 
 know this and how much I am your servant. 
 
 1625, May 30. On board the Red Lion. Sir Francis Steuart to Sir 
 John Coke, Master of Requests and one of the Commissioners for His 
 Majesty's Royal Navy. 
 
 The ship coming from Chatham about Queenborough sprung a shrewd 
 leak. Amongst the crew there could not be picked 40 good men. 
 Describes abuse of pressing men for sea service. Yesterday 1 discharged 
 and set ashore forty, some of them tailors, shoemakers, weavers, combers 
 of wool, blacksmiths, turners, tinkers, husbandmen, and the like, 
 known by testimony to be pressed rather out of malice than the care of 
 His Majesty's service. 
 
 1625, May 30. Londres. Filippe Burlamachi a Mons. Mons. Jean 
 Coke, Chevalier, Maiire des Requetes de 8a Majeste. 
 
 Je viens de parler a Monseigneur Conway lequel m'a adresse a vous pom- 
 avoir resolution de ce que devons faire touchant une commission de milles 
 mousquets et milles corselets que doit etre donee en Hollande ne sachant 
 bien s'il sera plus convenant de faire venir les deux milles soldats tout 
 amies de corselets sans aucuns mousquets. J'ai etc prompt a debourser 
 les 2,000/., c'est apres diner mais personne n'est venu les demander. 
 
 1625, May 31. Exeter. William Carey to the Lord Bishop of 
 Exeter, at his house in Drury Lane. 
 
 My kinsman, Captain Win. Cary, of Topsham, I present to your Lord- 
 ship in person. His sea experience both by way or war and merchandise 
 will plead strongly for him in the judgments of your Lordship and your 
 worthy brother Sir John Coke to whom desert is ever the principal 
 argument of preferment. A business of special trust by the City of 
 Exeter against pirates he discharged with good reputation. 1 doubt not 
 if he hath employment in this honourable action but he will make good 
 his friends expectations. 
 
 (1625), May . Instructions for our right trusty and right entirely 
 beloved cousin and councillor George, Duke of Buckingham, our High 
 Admiral of England, General of our Royal Fleet, now prepared, and of 
 the Land Army to be therein carried. 
 
 ***** 
 
 Only to show the justness of our reason at the mediation of our deal- 
 brother and sister, and in prosecution of our dear father's purpose to 
 prepare so great a fleet, and to put in arms a proportion of land soldiers 
 which we do by authentieal commission put under the charge, conduc- 
 tion, and commandment of you or your deputy or deputies, with the 
 assistance of those councillors of war we have added to you, namely, 
 our right trusty and well beloved cousin the Earl of Essex, Vice- 
 Admiral, and Sir Francis Stewart, Knight, Rear Admiral of our fleet ; 
 our trusty and well beloved cousins the Karl of Denbigh, Viscount 
 Valentia, and Viscount Cromwell, the Lord De la Warre, Sir William 
 St. Leger, Sergeant-Major Goodall, Sir Thomas Love, Treasurer for the 
 Army, and all the captains of our own ships, and colonels of regiments, 
 with our Quartermaster-General, and John Glanvill, Esquire, Secre- 
 tary, for this action, all which are to be ranked so as the seamen in sea 
 matters and landmen in land services have precedence according unto 
 
 their degrees. 
 
 ***** 
 
 We do first give you in charge with all care and judgment to inform 
 yourself, and get intelligence where the King of Spains shipping is
 
 202 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 where his strengths and weaknesses are upon his coasts, and where his 
 magazines are for provisions for the preparing, arming, and victualling 
 of his navies for the future. 
 
 1625, May . His house. Filippe Burlamachi a Monsr. Monsr. 
 Jean Coke, Chevalier, Maitre des Requetes de sa Majeste. 
 
 Etant appele je remontrai a sa majeste le desir de PAmbassadeur et 
 Foffre qu'il faisait pour fournir de vivres la navire tant pour le temps 
 que la retiendrait plus des six mois comme aussi pour une mois qu'elle 
 pourra mettre a revenir sur nos cotes. Sa Majeste se contentait de con- 
 ceder au dit Ambassadeur le dit vaisseau a cette condition que le Roi 
 Tres Chretien puisse s'en servir plus de six mois s'il en aura besoin 
 pourvu comme dit est que soit laissee en place que par computation elle 
 puisse en un mois retourner en Angleterre et que soit pourvu de vivres 
 necessaires pour le temps que la retiendront et pour son retour Monsr. 
 l'ambassadeur a dit que suffira bien que la paye commence a la souscrip- 
 tion de l'accord. Je vous baise les mains et donne le bon jour. 
 
 1625, June 1. (North) Clifton (Notts.) Margaret Bussy to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight. 
 
 Good Brother, I am sorry that my son hath given you such a cause of 
 dislike that thereon you have taken occasion to turn him from you and left 
 to seek his fortunes, and since to discharge him of your house which is to 
 me the greatest grief that ever happened me all my life but one that was 
 the loss of him that would have taken all these cares from me. I did 
 not put him to you to have been at any charges with him for you have, 
 been at more than I would have wished you in giving him two years 
 table, in regard he hath spent so much money, lost his time, and gained 
 no experience (to him the greatest loss of all) to countervail these hind- 
 rances, but I put him to you out of the natural affection I had to you in 
 hope you would first have instructed him in the fear of God, and next to 
 have employed him about yourself, which was my greatest desire, or else 
 to have procured him some place whereby hereafter he might have raised 
 a fortune for him, and if it please God still to do it if you be forced to 
 lay forth any money for procurement of it I will repay it again with 
 thanks to his uncle which did never fail me in all my greatest extremity, 
 nor I hope in this will not, for if he should I should not know which 
 way well to turn myself. If you had sent me one of yours I would have 
 been as loving to it as my own. If I had known your mind I would have 
 sent for my son, or his uncle at Cheshunt would have done it, which would 
 have been less to his disparagement. I pray you let me entreat you that you 
 would let me know from yourself what the occasion was you so suddenly 
 part from him to the no little discredit of mj' son and much more grief 
 of myself, for till I hear from yourself I will not believe that so small an 
 occasion was the cause as I am informed of. I hope your estate would 
 have been never the more diminished, for what you lay out to help the 
 fatherless and widow is but lent and at length shall be repaid again. 
 
 1623, June ,'i>- Amiens. George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Good Sir John Coke. I have understood what care you have employed 
 about the provisions of the Navy and that your diligence hath therein 
 supplied the defects of the victualler. Which as it is an acceptable 
 service to our master, who will 1 assure me graciously acknowledge it, so 
 would I not also forbear for that interest I have in His Majesty's service 
 and in this more particularly to give you hearty thanks and let you 
 know that as herein you have done no more than I ever expected from 
 you. So may you in all your occasions assure yourself that I am your 
 faithful friend and servant G. Buckingham.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 203 
 
 1625, June 12. Cowes Castle. Captain Anthony Ersfield to Sir Coke MSS. 
 John Coke, Master of Requests, at his house in Bow Lane towards the 
 lower end. 
 
 I entreat you to talk with my Lord Conway for my Lord Admiral's 
 profit and his Lordships'. Mr. Reed hearkened to some articles, foul, 
 false, and frivolous, much to my disgrace and discredit. JolifFe furnished 
 a pirate lying at the old support of Yarmouth. I arrested the ship and 
 some sugars in her. My Lord Admiral commanded me to deliver her 
 to Gentillot (who is now executed at Rheims and broken upon the wheel 
 about Monsieur Soubize's rebellion). You told me that the Isle of 
 Wight was termed another Argier. I have used all diligence to suppress 
 the insolences used, Sir Edward Denys, a lieutenant of my Lords in 
 the Island, when I was unlading the barque sendeth a constable with a 
 warrant as for a felon to serve upon me in the Castle. Captain Jacob 
 that hath a commission from the States was set out by Captain Burley 
 of Yarmouth and robbed one of Rotterdam of sugars and sweet meats 
 with much tobacco. I sent this bearer to arrest the ship and him, but 
 Captain Burley will not suffer me or any of mine (as with foul speeches 
 he sendeth me word) to meddle there and saith he careth not a sur- 
 reverence for me nor my deputation. 
 
 1625, June 14. Westminster. Sir Robert Pye to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Master of Requests, at his house at Tottenham. 
 
 Mr. Lieutenant received answer from the Court for 11,500/. for the 
 Navy and 8,500/. for the ordnance (?) out of the portion, which 1 will 
 presently see done and some satisfaction given for it with abatement of 
 interest. I am now going to my Lord Treasurer with Mr. Burlamachi. 
 I also received two letters from Mr. Bagge, who doth hear of the return 
 of victuals, but protesteth that the victual at Plymouth is as good as is 
 in Christendom. The Hamburgh ships are gone, and I do assure 
 myself they were mustered, but I assure you I would not for -any 
 respect they had not gone, all the hopes now depending upon the King 
 of Denmark for Germany. Many of Mansfield's captains are come and 
 coming, but we shall hear certainly by Sir John Burrowes. The Ham- 
 burgh men were weakly manned, but they conceive they will mend 
 themselves hereafter. Mr. Lieutenant writ me word from Mr. Cooke 
 and Mr. Joynesborough will relate to-morrow the state of all things, 
 and the Lieutenant hath despatched all the 13 ships. 
 
 1625, June 15. Aboard the Vanguard, in the road of Dieppe. 
 Captain J. Penington to Sir John Coke, Master of Requests to Hi 
 Majesty and Chief Commissioner of His Majesty's Royal Navy. 
 
 After 48 hours of very foul weather anchored under the Ness. On 
 the 12th we weighed, and at 10 o'clock on the 13th came to an anchor 
 in the Road of Dieppe. The French Admiral is still at Paris. I have 
 sent to let him know that I am here with seven sail to attend his com- 
 mands. 1,700 soldiers be ready to put aboard our ships, they say the 
 Admiral's train will be 50 or 00 men. By the instructions under my 
 Lord Admiral's hand I am not to receive above half the number of the 
 ships' companies. Upon these reasons I must ground mv refusal to 
 receive more. It is bruited on the shore that this preparation is against 
 Monsieur Soubise and Rochelle. Hut I have a special command not 
 to engage in the civil wars of Fiance or against any of our religion. 
 If any complaints shall come against me from the French I beseech 
 you to mediate to His Majesty and my Lord Admiral on my behalf. 
 
 1625, June 15. Robert Wythe to Sir John Coke. 
 To place his son in some service.
 
 204 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. ] 625, June 17. Chatham Dock. Josua Downynge to the Commis- 
 sioners of His Majesty's Navy, at Sir William Russell's house in Tower 
 Street. 
 
 Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Sick men in the Blessing, Sara Bonadv., 
 Jacob, Anthony." 
 
 I have in a former letter to you advised the state of the victualling 
 and wants of the four ships which ride at Queenborough. The pilots 
 being discontented at their loss of the mackerel season by their long 
 attendance on these ships. I have advised Mr. Burrell of what is 
 wanting here that it may be sent from Deptford. I also advised you 
 of the necessity of covering a rope house ; it is great loss to the King 
 to have 50 men give over their woik every shower of rain. Since Mr. 
 Boat came down hither to take account of the receipts and issues of 
 the out stores, Mr. Buck and his minister hath wholly omitted to look 
 after that business. Mr. Boat doth leave it to his son, a lad of 16 or 
 17 years of age. Mr. Buck's illness may cause the charge to be great 
 if his subordinate ministers be ignorant or dishonest. 
 
 1625, June 25. Sir Francis Steuart to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I beseech you to despatch with this bearer Rawlins, master gunner 
 of the Lion. I am heartily sorry to find him here from his charge, 
 most dangerously subject to mischance when there is not a special care 
 had. The beginning of next week I will be on board. 
 
 [Endorsed by Sir J. Coke : -Instructions to Sir Francis Steuart and 
 Captain Chudleigh to take such merchants as are ended and go to 
 Plymouth, and in their way to clear the coast of pirates. Factions 
 betwixt Masters and Captains fomented.] 
 
 1625, June 27. Aboard the Rainbow. Captain John Chudleigh to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Master of the Requests and one of the Com- 
 missioners of His Majesty's Navy, at Court or elsewhere. 
 
 The leak of our ship between wind and water. We might go to 
 Plymouth, where this business might be done. Seamen we are in great 
 need of. Our men fall sick apace. There may be nearer the place 
 where the fleet is a kind of hospital or pest house where the sick men 
 may be kept and have relief. It will be a good means to keep the fleet 
 free from much sickness and the country the less subject to receive 
 infection. To these places there should be some physician appointed. 
 It may be objected this will draw on charge, but let the woful example 
 of the ruin of Mansfield's army answer that, it being altogether occa- 
 sioned by the keeping the sick men so long aboard that all were almost 
 infected. Sickness in these voyages doth consume more men than sword 
 or slaughter. Their clothes is as needful almost as their meat. 
 
 1625, June 28. Aboard the Vanguard, by the Ness. Captain J. 
 Penington to Sir John Coke, one of His Majesty's Masters of Requests, 
 and Chief Commissioner of the Royal Navy. 
 
 After 14 days riding in the dangerous Road of Dieppe, we departed 
 thence yesterday morning. We had our Admiral aboard of us, who is 
 returned again to the Court. He told us the design was merely against 
 Monsieur de Soubise, and demanded of us whether we would fight 
 against him or no. I am come over to have my Lord Admiral's resolu- 
 tion herein. Of all things touching this employment I have written at 
 large to my Lord Admiral. 
 
 1625, June 28. Aboard the Vanguard, by the Ness. Captain J. 
 Penington to his Grace the Duke of Buckingham, Lord High Admiral 
 of England. 
 
 [The first part of this letter is absent.]
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS* COMMISSION. 205 
 
 200 men apiece, or 150, yet this they could not draw them [the mer- Coke MSS. 
 chaut captains] to, but tney were content to take in 80 apiece. How- 
 beit that would not satisfy him, but he left them in a chafe and went 
 away to Paris to acquaint the King. I advertised him that for the 
 safety of our ships we resolved to retire ourselves to our own coast, 
 where we should attend his further pleasure. They have slighted and 
 vilified our ships, and used many threatening and disgraceful words 
 against us all. The soldiers and officers they would put aboard us arc 
 mariners to command in our ships over us. Their design is only against 
 Monsieur de Soubise, as they have freely declared unto us. Our men 
 in general say they will rather be hanged or thrown overboard than 
 tight against him. If it be your pleasnre I shall proceed in this service; 
 I will obey. 
 
 1625, June 30. Aboard H.M. ship the Rainbow, in the Downs. 
 Captain John Chudleigh to Sir John Coke, Knight, Master of the Re- 
 quests, and one of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy, at Court 
 or elsewhere. 
 
 Mr. Burrell sends word that we are to haste to Plymouth for the 
 stoppage of our leak. In this place there is but two ways to be used : 
 the one is to careen, which will require much time ; the other to bring 
 her on ground, which will be in many men's opinions very dangerous, 
 she being a long ship ; but Mr. Burrell is informed that it may be 
 safely done in Hamoaze. I desire to have your approbation, having no 
 other order than this bare letter of Mr. Burrell. In our ship we have 
 already about 20 sick, besides some we have put ashore. God send us 
 free of it, and that it prove not more contagious. 
 
 1625, June. Draft in the writing of Sir John Coke. "A letter to 
 Captain Penington to expound his instructions in the French service." 
 
 For the better understanding of your instructions delivered under 
 the Lord Admiral's hand, and especially of the articles of contract 
 betwixt the French Ambassador and the Commissioners of the Navy, 
 I am by direction to inform you that no clauses therein are to be 
 strained to embroil you or the ships and companies serving under you 
 in the civil wars of the French, or against them of the religion in that 
 kingdom : the true intention being to serve against the notorious 
 opposers of the honour of that King, and the interests of both king- 
 doms, and the common cause of correspondence and confederacy betwixt 
 them : wherein the assistance of the States of the United Provinces 
 doth also concur. You are to carry yourself so as you may maintain 
 good agreement with those Frenchmen which shall be sent aboard, ami 
 advance the honour and service of that King, and the good of the 
 common cause. 
 
 J625 (probably N.S.), premier jour de Juillet. Indorsed by Sir J. 
 Coke, " King of France his letter to Captain Penington." 
 
 Monsieur de Penington, Mon cousin le Duo de Montmorency, pair 
 et Amiral de France, s'en allant par dela pour reconnaitre les vaisseaux 
 Anglais (pie vous avez amenes aux Rades de Dieppe pour les commander 
 comme est Pintention du Iloi de la Grande Bretagne niou bon frere, je 
 vous ai voulu ecrire cette lettre pour vous mander de le reconnaitre et 
 lui obeir en la [blank] qualitc, sans attendre aucune commission et 
 pouvoir (pie la presentc, attendu (pie sa charge d' Amiral est sullisante 
 pour le [ blank ] commandement. Auquel m'assurant (pie vous vousaccom- 
 moderez, je prie Dieu qifil vous ait Monsieur de Penington en sa 
 sniive garde. Merit de Pnntainchleau. 
 
 Lervis.
 
 206 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 OokhMSS. 1625, July 1, Chestnut Park. Charles Bussy to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Your sister and mine has a lease for lives of which her son Christopher 
 is one. If he miscarry in this journey it may prejudice her estate. 
 I have already spoken to Sir William St. Leger. 
 
 1625, July 2. On board the Lion. Sir Francis Steuart to Sir 
 John Coke, Master of Bequests to His Majesty. 
 
 The ships in the Thames are loitering one for another. I intend to 
 put to sea with His Majesty's good ships the Lion and Rainbow, 
 and as many of the merchants as can fit themselves with all expedition 
 trusting in God that we shall meet no force that we shall not be able to 
 encounter withal. Complaints of victuals here both for weight and 
 number. Let me advise that some exemplary punishment may be 
 inflicted on some of our runaways otherwise we shall not dare to send 
 our boats ashore for fresh water. A red ancient would become every 
 one of the King's ships. The trumpeters have run away, so that we 
 have not one on board, nor drum nor fife but my little boy. I beseech 
 you let them be talked withal for their contempt. I beseech you that 
 you will be pleased to put His Grace in remembrance that he hath not 
 a faithfuller servant by sea nor land than his Francis Steuart. 
 
 1625, July 5. " The examination of David Cockburn about a ship 
 taken by Salleemen." (The endorsement by Sir J. Coke.) 
 
 1625, July 5. Sir Thomas Button to Sir John Coke. For Captain 
 Powell to command a ship. 
 
 1625, July 5. Plymouth. Thomas Ceely, Mayor, to the Right 
 Honourable the Lords of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 For help against pirates, English, French and Dutch, and also 
 Turkish. We hear that 20 ships of Sallee are speedily to come forth 
 and propose to lie on this coast. 
 
 1625, July 10. Sir John Coke, to Sir Robert Pye, Knight. 
 
 Having no disposition to visit the Parliament House this morning, I 
 am desirous to know the success of our petition at Court and what 
 return our Committees bring from thence, also advice of any other 
 occurrent or resolution concerning the adjournment of the House. 
 
 (Sir Robert Pye's reply.) My Lord President delivered for both 
 Houses. They were much bound to His Majesty for his gracious 
 granting their petition of the fast and gracing it with his own presence. 
 They now presented unto him the petition concerning religion. The 
 petition was read to His Majesty whereunto (he) answered My Lords and 
 Gent. I am glad to see you so forward in religion. I assure you you 
 shall see me as forward as you can wish and shall speedily receive my 
 answer to your petition. For Mr. Montague he is my Chaplain in 
 Ordinary, I have taken the cause into mine own consideration and do 
 therefore wish that the House would set him at liberty and he would 
 take care to give the House satisfaction. For the petition touching the 
 (preemption ?) for the wines, he marvelled they would now question it 
 because it was by the late King his father destined for the maintenance 
 of the Queen of Bohemia, but he Avould give the House good satisfaction 
 in it. 
 
 1625, July 11. Aboard the Rainboio at Portland. Captain John 
 Chudleigh to Sir John Coke, Knight, Master of Requests and one of 
 the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy at Court. 
 
 In our coming hither this fleet met with 7 or 8 ships which Sir 
 Francis Steuart upon probable ground that they have much treasure 
 and other goods bound for Dunkirk made stay of them some 24 hours
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 207 
 
 and then sent them to Portsmouth. How this business will be censured cokb MSS. 
 I know not. I understand here at Weymouth that Mr. Gilbert Raleigh 
 
 hath bestowed upon him by my Lord Admiral the polacary (polacca ?) 
 which I was the means of* the taking of here in this road. I took some 
 things from the Flemish man of war that had taken the polacary, I 
 have sent you the inventory. I think I have deserved those things as 
 well as Mr. Gilbert Raleigh hath the polacary. [Inventory and valua- 
 tion amounting to I'll. 17*.] 
 
 1G25, July 15. Deptford. Sir William Russell to Sir John Coke, 
 one of the Masters of Requests. 
 
 By reason of one of my servants suddenly falling sick I am forced to 
 remove with my wife and family for Cambridgeshire. I entreat that 
 you will speak to my Lord Duke that these monies duo by Privy Seals 
 over and above my undertaking may be paid me out of the marriage 
 money which amounts unto about 10,000/. My Lord Treasurer's 
 answer was that unless my Lord Duke sent him a warrant under the 
 King's hand he could not dispose now of that money. I am already too 
 deeply engaged, I pray help me with your good word. If I can gee 
 fairly off this time I shall be well advised hereafter how I come in. 1 
 do owe Sir Robert Pye 3,000/. which he hath friendly lent me. Bv 
 reason of this step I cannot make good my word. 
 
 1625, July 18. Aboard the Vanguard in Stokes Bay. Captain 
 J. Penington to Sir John Coke, one of His Majesty's Masters of 
 Requests, and principal Commissioner for the Royal Navy. 
 
 I have even now received order from my Lord Duke's Grace to go 
 away for Dieppe and to carry the rest of the ships along with me, but 
 they will not stir, for here is a great uproar among them all, so I am 
 resolved presently to go without them. I have orders from my Lord 
 Conway in His Majesty's name to deliver over the sole command of 
 this His Majesty's ship and the rest to His Most Christian Majesty and 
 he to put so many of his own nation in as he will and to do what he 
 will with them. I humbly entreat your favour that you will be a means 
 I may be called home and some other put in that they are not distasted 
 with, that some speedy course may be taken for my relief in this 
 particular which I may not endure. 
 
 1625, July 18. Poplar. Mr. William Burrell to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's Masters of Requests and Commissioner 
 for His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Concerning the estimate for the five ships that carry the horses and 
 Sir Edward Cecil's provisions. Sir W. Russell is out of town, I will 
 confer with Mr. Lieutenant (Sir A. Apsley) and Sir J. Wolstenholine. 
 Because the times arc dangerous for killing of victuals, I am in hand 
 with the owners to victual their own ships. Tf they undertake it they 
 will all be ready by the end of next week. 
 
 1625, July 20. Portsmouth Dock. Matthew Brooke to Sir John 
 Coke, Master of the Court of Requests, and a Commissioner for His 
 Majesty's Royal Navy at his house or elsewhere. 
 
 I did once presume in your parlour to desire your favour to the 
 Duke's Grace that if wars did come I might have the collecting of his 
 tenths in this place. An English man of war commissioned out of the 
 Admiralty Court for restitution of goods by the Dunkirks taken from 
 His Majesty's subjects of England has taken a Scotch ship richly laden 
 with lawns, cambrics, lace, copper and divers other commodities bound 
 for Spain which goods I think will prove prize. The " Mary Rose " is 
 come into our harbour.
 
 208 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1625, July 21. Poplar. W. Bun-ell to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Recommends Orrange, a teacher of mathematics to seamen, to he 
 appointed a master's mate. 
 
 1625, July 26. Austin Friars. Sir William St. Leger to Sir John 
 Coke, knight, one of the Masters of the Requests to His Majesty. 
 
 Goneral Cecil desires you will take the pains to be at Woking the 
 27th of this present, for such order he hath received from my Lord 
 Conway to meet His Grace there. 
 
 1625, July 27. Richmond. Sir Robert Pye to Sir John Coke at 
 Tottenham. 
 
 Asks for the Privy Seal for Sir YY\ St. Leger, that the warrant may 
 l)e despatched. 
 
 1625, August 1. Plymouth. Captain John Chudleigh to Sir John 
 Coke, Master of Requests and one of the Commissioners of His Majesty's 
 Navy at Court or elsewhere. 
 
 The Rainbow sheathed 2 or 3 streaks under water. 40 tuns of stinking 
 beer supplied. W m Crow the Chirurgeon run away. The Turks busy 
 on the west. Sir Francis Steuart hath been to scour the coast. 
 
 1625, August 1. W. Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 
 5 ships to be ready in a fortnight. Estimate of 9 ships and 3 pinnaces 
 which may be ready by the end of October. To build new small ships. 
 
 (1625, August 4.) Sir John Coke to Lord Brooke. 
 
 No servant of yours can be more sorry for your indisposition than 
 I am, nor more glad that by your good usage you find some content- 
 ment. And I am assured that by your absence from hence you can 
 sustain no loss. For I hear not of any meeting with the states, nor of 
 any business of importance to give you entertainment to your mind. 
 In Parliament before my coming there was much exception taken 
 against a pardon granted to a Jesuit at Exeter, wherein the Lord 
 Conway and the Lord Keeper were taxed; and the King himself 
 escaped not exception for granting it the next day after he had engaged 
 his word to the House for their suppression. No less earnestness hath 
 been used against Dr. Onian who being under the censure of the House 
 yet pressed to preach before them at the Fast which they would not 
 permit, and against Dr. Montague whose absence is excused only by 
 his sickness. And this is all I know of the proceedings in the Houses 
 whither I came but on Tuesday ; and that night had my instructions 
 to deliver the present state of affairs to the nether House, which on 
 Wednesday night was changed and left doubtful whether the Lord 
 Conway or I should relate to it both Houses in the presence of the King, 
 and this morning even in the Hall [? Christ Church Hall] where we 
 met the counsel varied again, and the Lord Conway was required to 
 say something and I to present the rest, so as a greater charge with so 
 little warning and many changes could hardly have been laid upon so 
 weak shoulders. And I give God hearty thanks that it is passed over 
 (as I hope) without shame. The first intention was a bare narration 
 of the progress of businesses since the relation made to both Houses by 
 the Lord Duke, and after a short intimation of the importance of the 
 services in hand, and the impossibility to bear the charge withoul their 
 assistance, to leave it to their judgment whether they would now pro- 
 ceed to a resolution or adjourn till winter in regard of the sickness. 
 But the resolution upon the present, which the King himself delivered 
 to me in his chair was to show the importance of the Fleet, and that 
 it could not proceed without a present supply by money or credit, 
 which is the business which now possesseth and troubleth the whole
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 209 
 
 House : and tomorrow morning is appointed to begin to debate it. CokeMSS. 
 The King himself first delivered his mind effectually and clearly to this 
 end, and I presume that will be of more force to sway our resolution 
 than anything that could be said by any of his servants. The envy 
 that I bear is that it hath not been known nor is agreeable to the 
 orders of the House (as ,ome think) that a nether house man was ever 
 employed to deliver the King's pleasure to both Houses of Parliament, 
 which came to pass at this time only by reason of the sudden change 
 of counsel which gave not time to any other to be instructed for a 
 speech of near an hour long. For my part I neither had ambition nor 
 thought of speaking in that place. The King since dinner is gone to 
 meet the Queen and the Lord Duke with him. I spake with the 
 Gentleman Usher, Mr. Harris, about your Lordship's lodging, and he 
 telleth me he hath reserved one for you within the Court which J have 
 sent Mr. Westcote to see that he may make his choice of the [best?]. 
 When further occasion is offered 1 will give your Honour a further 
 account. And in the meantime praying for your health and happiness 
 do rest your Lordship's in all humble service. 
 [This letter has a good seal of six quartering*.] 
 
 1625, August 5. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley to Sir John Coke, 
 knight, principal Master of Requests to His Majesty at Court. 
 
 I received a letter from you when the King was at Ricott (Reigate?). 
 Of the 5 ships the greatest is not fitted any way. There cometh so 
 many passengers by warrant from the Lord Marshal, as the victuals of 
 these ships small company will not suffice them to Plymouth. I have 
 written unto Sir Robert Pye for any thing that is to be done here to 
 expedite the service Sir John Worsnam (Wolstenholme) and myself 
 doth instantly perform. I pray God preserve your health and protect 
 us here in this most lamentable and fearful time of infection, which 
 cannot but increase, for without order, fear, or restraints the infected 
 and the sound ordinarily come together and go to church with them, as 
 if they had no plague at all. 
 
 1625, August 6. Billesley. Sir Robert Lee to Sir John Coke, kn 4 , 
 one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty, give this at Oxford or 
 elsewhere. 
 
 I desire my sister (Sir John Coke's second wile) send my nephews 
 Jarrett and William Gore (the sons of her first marriage) hither .as soon 
 as she pleases, and that you would give directions that your son, who is 
 at Cambridge with them, do also accompany them, who, I promise you, 
 shall be as welcome to me as they. They need lie but one night by tin- 
 way. Their ready way is by Northampton and from thence to Stratford- 
 upon-Avon. I, together with my wile, son Jenkensou, and daughter 
 and the rest here, commend our best loves and service to yourself, my 
 sister, my cousin Ellwes, with your company at Tottenham. God keep 
 you and us free in this time of visitation. 
 
 1625, August 10. On board the Lion at Plymouth. Sir Francis 
 Steuart to Sir John Coke, knight, Master of Requests to His Majesty 
 and one of the Commissioners for His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 The Lion grew upon a sudden so leaky as she made three feet and 
 six inches water in hold. There are divers complaints here, viz., want 
 of chirurgeons, bread rooms not capable of a third part of that sort of 
 provision, want of clothes, and vinegar to wash our ship between decks, 
 a great cause, 1 fear me, of our men's late falling sick in round numbers, 
 and I may not forget rotten bread and stinking beer that was taken in 
 at London. Remember my humble service to my noble lather, my Lord 
 U 24963. O
 
 210 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokb M8S. Brooke, and to my good friend Mr. Nicholas, Secretary to the Duke his 
 Grace of Buckingham. 
 
 1625, August 16. Thomas Hampson, E. Bennett, and William King, 
 from Ennisboffin, to Mr. Thomas Witherell, Mr. John La Mott, or Mr. 
 Robert Oxwick, merchants in London. 
 
 120 tons of wines staved, casks made prize for firewood. 54 bags of 
 almonds and a hogshead of argoll we have laden on a bark bound for 
 London. We are ready to set sail, a ship in sight. 
 
 1625, August 22. Beaulieu. Edward Nicholas to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty at Tottenham. 
 
 E. Conway. 
 
 For His Majesty's special affairs. Beaulieu 10^ a.m., Southampton 2, 
 Winchester 3, Basingstoke , Staines 10 in the morning, Charing 
 
 Cross at past I in the afternoon. 
 
 You shall here enclosed receive a letter from Sir Francis Steuart, 
 which coining in a packet of my Lords was by the King (in my Lord's 
 absence) broken up as well as my Lords and the last night sent by His 
 Majesty to me. My Lord Conway willed me to desire you to take some 
 course for supply of those wants which are mentioned by Sir Francis 
 Steuart. If you think fit that a Commission should be sent by my 
 Lord for the surveying and examining the provisions of the fleet, I 
 pray you oblige me to send a draft of the Commisssion and the names 
 of such as you conceive to be fit Commissioners in such a business. 
 Mr. Bagg writes me that he believe th the defects in the provisions 
 are not full so great as the captain and seamen make them. The 
 Lords of the Council are all at Southampton and do remain (as it is 
 thought) this se'nnight. The " Ann Royal " and about 34 other ships 
 of the fleet went from Portsmouth towards Plymouth Friday last. Sir 
 
 F. Steuart sends under Captain Burleigh's hand that his beer casks 
 fly in pieces in such quantity as that they pump sheer beer. 
 
 [Endorsed with Sir John Coke's reply to the Duke of Buckingham.] 
 Doubtfulness of Sir Francis Steuart's complaint. Your Grace may 
 be pleased, for the prevention of clamour and danger to the fleet, to 
 give commission to your Lieutenant and some principal commanders 
 to survey the victuals in every ship. I have pressed Mr. Lieutenant 
 to go himself to Plymouth. It will much advance the service that he 
 sent a sufficient deputy along the voyage, for without a victualler the 
 army cannot march nor any supplies be orderly sont from the shore 
 aboard the ships, nor any victuals that may be taken from the enemy 
 be orderly disposed. This was done in all former voyages, in some of 
 which both himself and Sir Marmaduke Darrell went in person. Your 
 Grace gave monies and directions for the present supply of carriages 
 for the castles near the Downs. Decayed state of Harwich, which 2 
 or 3 Dunkirkers may burn and go on to Ipswich and first burn 50 
 or 60 Newcastle ships which ride there (at Harwich).] 
 
 1625, August 22. Broxbourne. Sir Edmund Lucy to Sir John Coke, 
 knight. 
 
 My house at Punsbourne is let to Sir Peter Rigemortes and his lady 
 and the fair Mrs. Bruce to live in during the time of this great and 
 dangerous visitation of London, but if I had heard from you, there is 
 neither lord nor lady should have had it before yourself. Sir Richard 
 Lucy commands his kind love to you. 
 
 1625, August 25. Chatham. Josua Downynge to William Burrell, 
 Esquire, one of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy at Poplar. 
 Recommends boatswains for the Merhoneur and Wastspite.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 211 
 
 Coke MSS 
 1625, August 31. Sir Johu Wolstenholme and Mr. W. Burrell to 
 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Master of Requests. 
 
 Infection among seafaring men in the river, no pressing of sailors 
 
 here. In Tilbury Hope mariners should be pressed in ships returning 
 
 home. We have agreed that in two merchant ships the men shall be 
 
 victualled at 9d. per diem, money must be paid before they will order 
 
 provisions. Daily increasing rumours of preparation of shipping and 
 
 soldiers by Marquis Spinola at Dunkirk. Our coast and the river of 
 
 Thames are unguarded. Ten ships of the fleet should be stayed to 
 
 guard the river, and should ride at anchor with their sails at yards, 
 
 ordnance mounted, &c. Sir R. Bingley dangerously ill, another captain 
 
 should be appointed for the Reformation. The state of the city for 
 
 defence should be considered during this great mortality. 
 
 1625, September 2. Portsmouth. Captain Edward Griles to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Has been ordered by the Duke to take the Scottish ship at Ports- 
 mouth into his charge. The Great Neptune to be supplied with 
 anchors and cables when come into the Downs. 
 
 1625, September 2. Groton. Emm 11 Downing to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I understand from Mr. George Verney that the King's letter to place 
 Mr. Mayart in Judge Lother's office in Ireland rests in your custody 
 until 400 pounds shall be deposited in your hands for it. I gave Mr. 
 Verney a bond to pay him 400/. within one month after Mr. Mayart 
 should be settled in the place. The sickness hath prevented me from 
 coming to London. 
 
 1625, September 3. London. Sir John Wolstenholme to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight. 
 
 Undertaketh for sufficiency of the masters of the Hector and the 
 John Bonad venture to be captains of their ships. 200/. imprest to 
 thein to victual their ships. 
 
 1625, September 5. Newport, Isle of Wight. Edward Reed to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, Master of the Requests unto His Majesty at his 
 house at Tottenham. [Received at Plymouth.] 
 
 Is now in the Isle of Wight at the entreaty of my Lord Conway from 
 Uagley, for the despatch of his business. Encloses Sir Edward Fisher's 
 letter, and will send his further resolutions about the land. The King 
 going to Plymouth. The enemy at Dunkirk may make an attempt 
 against the coast in the absence of the flee!. The trained bands to be 
 ordered for defence there. The new ambassadors from France and 
 Sweden at Southampton. Mr. Secretary Morton not like to live. 
 Humble service to my Lady Coke and all hers and yours. 
 
 1625, September 7. Kingsbury. Sir Thomas Coventrye to Sir John 
 (Joke, Knight, Master of Requests, at his house, at Tottenham. 
 
 Understanding by Richard Willis that you concur with me touching 
 the form of the new commission required for letters of marque, I send 
 you my letters to my Lord Admiral with the draft of the commission, to 
 be returned that I may see it amended according to your opinion. 
 Hoping that now you live no further from hence some good occasion or 
 other may draw you hither, where I shall be glad to see you. 
 
 1625, September 8. Chatham. W. Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 Inexperienced strangers preferred to be boatswains. Pilotage in his 
 bills is according to warrant. 
 
 1625, September 9. Report to Lord Lieutenant of Kent from Deputy 
 Lieutenants as to the defence of the coast agaiust invasion. Sir Thomas 
 
 o %
 
 212 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. Hales, Sir Dudley Dirges, and Thomas Smyth are taking care of service 
 of beacons and watch. Sir Thomas Walsingham, Sir Percival Hart, 
 and Sir Francis Barnham to be ready to march to Chatham Downs. 
 The town of Sandwich is fit to fall upon, and of that natural situation 
 that in few hours soldiers hands may cut through the neck of marsh 
 that will make it defensible and in few days a strong Low Country seat 
 and seaport. The country from Dover towards Rye of such fastness 
 by reason of woods and marsh and ill ways that an enemy is not like to 
 land. The bordering companies of Sir John Honeywood and Mr. 
 Edward Scott with the marsh bands to be always ready to defend there. 
 The light of Dungeness should not be kept light. The forces of the 
 Lathe of St. Augustine, now 7 companies. Sir William Monings (?), 
 Sir James Oxenden, Sir Thomas "Wilford, Sir Roger Nevison (lately 
 dead), Sir James Hales, Sir Christopher Hartslett and Sir John Wyld, 
 in all containing 900. The City band of Canterbury 300. On the 
 right hand we have appointed Sir Timothy Thornell his troop of horse, 
 and Sir John Honywood his foot of 150 men, Mr. Scott's company 
 of 150, Mr. Smyth's of 150, Sir Robert Darrell's of 150, and Sir Thomas 
 Roberts of 200 to defend that side. There remains Sir Nicholas 
 Tufton's company of 300, Sir Richard Sondes his of 300, and Sir Thomas 
 Culpepper's of 200 with the troop of light horse late Sir Humphrey 
 Tufton's to defend the north coast. We that are eight deputies know- 
 not well how to appoint 4 or 5 of ourselves to command. 
 
 Signed at Sittingbourne by Thomas Walsingham. 
 
 Nicolas Tuft on. 
 
 Percyvall Harte. 
 
 Dudley Digges. 
 
 Edward Hales. 
 
 Richard Sondes. 
 
 Francis Barnham. 
 
 Thos. Smythe. 
 
 1G25, September 13. Southampton. Sir James Ley, Lord Treasurer, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the principal Secretaries to His 
 Majesty at Salisbury or Plymouth. 
 
 1 received your letter from my Lord Duke of Buckingham which ] 
 send you here inclosed, and I pray you that you would draw letters out 
 of such particulars of your own letter as you shall think lit to be sent to 
 the Lords at Plymouth, Avhich if they shall approve of and sign, I shall he 
 very ready to join with them in it, being matters of so great consequence 
 for the defence and safety of the Kingdom. 
 
 1625, September 17. Tnisley. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Report that Sir John Coke is appointed to Sir Albert Morton's place. 
 Recommends Mr. Fulwood for employment. 
 
 1625, September 18. , Valentine Carey, Bishop of Exeter, to the 
 Lord Bishop of London, Almoner to His Majesty, at Plymouth. 
 
 I hold it better to forbear coming (to wait on his Majesty) in regard 
 that this last Aveek hath been a time of much mortality here : the noise 
 whereof being bruited abroad must needs make all those that come from 
 hence to be suspected and feared. 
 
 1625, September 19. Edward Hales to Dudley Digges. Indorsed 
 by Sir J. Coke; " Lieutenants Deputies of Kent to the Lord Duke." 
 
 As we wrote unto your Lordship in our last general letter we have 
 now visited and surveyed all the coast, of East Kent between Dover and 
 Reculver together with Sir Nicholas Tufton, Mr. Smyth, and the Lieu-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 213 
 
 tenant of Dover Castle . . . Particular account of weak places, and of CokeJKSS. 
 forts and other defences. 
 
 1625, Sept. 20. A draft by Sir John Coke. 
 
 "A proclamation to be made by Mr. Mayor of Plymouth with sound 
 of drum " (to restrain access of strangers from infected places.) 
 
 Whereas it hath pleased his most excellent Majesty in his own royal 
 person to repair to this town with his Lords and others of quality, and 
 also to appoint his whole fleet with the Lord General and other com- 
 manders thereof to make their rendezvous here, where by God's special 
 and extraordinary providence they have hitherto been preserved in 
 health in these times of so general contagion. Now, that by the neglect 
 of due care this great blessing may not be taken from this place, His 
 Majesty's royal pleasure is, and he doth straitly command and charge 
 all persons whatsoever who have lately resided, sojourned, or made 
 alwde in any place infected with the plague, and particularly in or 
 about Exeter, that they forbear to repair to the town of Plymouth or 
 places adjoining, or to any other place where his Majesty shall remain, 
 or within ten miles, during his Majesty's abode here, or during the 
 continuance of his navy or army in this place. 
 
 1625, September 24. Notes by Sir John Coke (Secretary of State;. 
 
 Ordered by His Majesty and the Council at Plymouth, 
 
 To treat with the East India merchants to provide victuals for 1,250 
 mariners and 3,000 soldiers for months for which they shall have 
 assurance of payment out of the later subsidy. 
 
 To treat with the Merchant Adventurers for a like proportion. With 
 the Turkey Company for the like. The Eastland Company the like. 
 
 To cause Burrell and Pett to bring their models to His Majesty to 
 Windsor and to set down their reasons in writing for and against 
 gallies (galleries ?). 
 
 The Lord Chamberlain to cause order to be taken in Cornwall for the 
 kind usage of the French refugees with Mr. Soubise. And to take, 
 order with the Duke for monies to be left to defray them for a month 
 after 2.v, 2d. per man. By the end of that month return expected out 
 of France and thereupon further order to l>e taken. To forbid painting, 
 carving, and high building in the King's ships. 
 
 1(525, September 24. Memorial to the Bight Honourable the Com- 
 missioners for His Majesty's Navy from Magistrates of the Rape of 
 Chichester against the inhabitants being warned to carry timber from 
 Apsley Wood to Pulborough in the Rape of Bramber. 
 
 Signed Ran. Nevill, Willm. Forde, R. Lewkenor, N. .Jordan, 
 F. Bowyer, Thos. Gray, Richard Stiggins, R. Ilawc. 
 
 1625, Thursday, September 25. London Wil iani Kiste to Mr. 
 .lames, Secretary to Sir .John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary to (he 
 King's Majesty. 
 
 Thomas Walker, Alderman of the City of Rxcter worth 7<),()(M)/. .John 
 Muddii'ord of the, same worth 30,0(K)/. Henry Rolls, Esquire, heir and 
 executor of Sir Henry Bolls, Knight, lately deceased near Torrington in 
 Devon, worth 100,(K)0/. at least. These are tho greatest men of wealth 1 
 know for lending his Majesty money. Belters to my house at Wind- 
 slade in Clist St. George about a mile from Topsham. Sir dames Bagg 
 woidd have a commission for a prize. I pray remember your master t<> 
 call for the examination of witnesses taken before Sir Francis Steuart 
 and the rest of the Commissioners, for it is the ground and strength of 
 the commission granted to discharge my Lord and Master the Lord
 
 214 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CoKKjklSS. High Admiral. If Mr. Nicholas, ray Lord Duke's Secretary, hath any 
 business to send to me, I pray direct him where to write. The 
 sessions for the Admiralty is the cause of my sudden departure from 
 the Court. 
 
 1625, September 25. Trinity College, Cambridge. Dr. Leonard 
 Mawe to Sir John Coke, Knight, Secretary of State. 
 
 The place which I hold in Trinity College makes me presume to 
 congratulate your Honour on your late preferment. Being with many 
 others truly glad that those virtues and abilities which have a long time 
 approved themselves in their lower motions are now set upon an ampler 
 theatre and placed in a higher sphere to shine forth and give light to 
 men, some beams whereof I doubt not but will reflect upon your old 
 nurse whose milk you have so happily drawn and concocted. A Fellow 
 of our College, Mr. Hardwick, a Bachelor of Divinity, makes request 
 you will receive him for your Chaplain in your house. 
 
 1625, September 26. London. Sir J. Wolstenholme and W. Burrell, 
 Commissioners for the Navy to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the 
 principal Secretaries of State at Court. 
 
 The carriages with muskets and other furniture for the castles in the 
 Downs and the ships at Dover have been in readiness these 14 days, but 
 the artificers refuse to deliver them without present payment. May we 
 engage with them that it shall be paid within one month ? Two of the 
 merchants ships against Dunkirk are gone down out of the river of 
 Thames, but for the other two for want of money we can do nothing. 
 For the King's ships, the Adventure, the Star, and the Charles 
 are in Tilbury Hope, the Guardland and the Moon at Gillingham, 
 and the Nonsuch we hope to have there this week. Place of house- 
 keeper at Chatham Hill vacant. It is claimed by one who keeps a tap 
 house. Goodman Eason should have the Lord Admiral's warrant to 
 prevent the house being pestered with many persons and their families. 
 Officers of the Vanguard unpaid. Mr. Edisbury dare not pay them 
 more than the King's allowance. We hope to abate something of the 
 rates that have been paid by the merchants. 
 
 1625, September 27. Richmond. Sir Robert Pye to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State at 
 Court. 
 
 As I have lost a very worthy friend so it hath pleased God to raise 
 me up another of you, and therefore I wish you much joy and more 
 than your predecessor. I have a request to give in his behalf that is 
 dead. First His Majesty promised the repayment of 3,000/. Mr. 
 Secretary [Sir Albert Morton] paid my Lord of Baltimore. A warrant 
 ' must be made to my Lord Treasurer to give a warrant to Mr. Attorney 
 to send for Sir Arthur Ingram to perform this payment to His Majesty 
 and from His Majesty to Mr. Burlamachi for that use which my Lady 
 Morton desires. Other business Mr. Griffin hath for Mr. Secretary as 
 his ordinary entertainment as he was Ambassador. I shall also entreat 
 you to accept of his chamber keeper which you will thank me for. He 
 was his best servant. For myself I do presume upon the respect 1 have 
 ever found, and if you find cause 1 pray you continue and desire my 
 Lord Duke to keep order, which I fear my great suitor doth now intend 
 to fish in troubled waters and will disorder all with himself and his 
 young man. I know who must suffer therein and therefore in time 
 prevention may be used. 
 
 1625, September 29. Wilton. Gilbert Thacker, to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, principal Secretary to his Majesty.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 215 
 
 These letters I convey by Sir H. Mervyn's man beseeching the coke mss. 
 Almighty to grant you a safe return and long to enjoy that blessing 
 and honour which it hath pleased Him to confer on you. My good 
 lady and all your family at Tottenham are in good health. 
 
 1625, September 30. The fort of Pendenuis. J. Bonython to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary unto his Majesty, at Plymouth. 
 
 Gives an account of Monsieur Sebesoes (Soubise) fleet, now in the 
 harbour 10 ships, their tonnage, their ordnance small and ammunition 
 much spent. They have sold some things for their relief as 2 pieces 
 of ordnance and 3 barrels of powder, likewise wine, cordage, and sails. 
 Their stay is only for a wind and some bread. Arrival at St. Ives of 
 one of the Dutch fleet of Baye with 200 men in her. 
 
 1625, September 29. Topsham. Richard Langford to Sir James 
 Bagg, Knight, in Plymouth. 
 
 Tii is day came into this harbour a ship of our town from Lisbon 
 which went there to deal in merchandizing, but they did send them 
 away, and did say they came as spies, and that our fleet was looked for 
 there every day. They have CO sails at anchor there in readiness, 
 whereof are 15 of them betwixt the North Cape and the Burlings to 
 give advice of any fleet. Remember me to my Lord Duke concerning 
 my letter of marque, for I go on in my business which will cost me a 
 great deal of money. 
 
 Navy paper, 1625, September ult. Endorsed: " Commissioners Cer- 
 tificate that there is no cause to stay the Fortune of London whereon 
 she was released by Mr. Secretary Coke according to order from my 
 Lords 5o 8bris 1625." 
 
 May it please your Grace * * * 
 
 Plymouth, the last of September"} Thomas Ceeley. 
 
 1625. I Tho. Fownes. 
 
 Ra. Byrd, Y Nicholas Sherwill. 
 
 Notary and Examiner. J 
 
 (1G25, September .) Joan Lady Coke to Sir John Coke. 
 
 [ She was 2nd wife of Sir John Coke, Widow of Alderman Gore, born 
 Joan Lee.] 
 
 Your kind letter 1 have received, v/ here by I perceive your long and 
 dangerous journey, but I praise God who hath preserved you and given 
 you health and happy success in all your proceedings; to Him be all 
 glory and honour. It is no small comfort to me, sweet husband, to hear 
 of your good health, and to hear how God hath protected the ships and 
 provided for all their necessities, rind my prayers shall not be slack for 
 your health and happy return which 1 am glad to hear shall be so soon. 
 My son El ways came home the .Monday after you went, and he hath 
 had one fit of the ague, but not great. A 11 the rest of our children are 
 in good health, 1 thank God, and the maids that were sick are about 
 fhe house. Our town is very clear, and all our friends in good health 
 and remember their services unto you, Mr. Fish, Mr. Latimore, Mr. 
 Aldred, my son El ways and daughters. 1 doubt not but you hear how 
 the sickness decreaseth. God be thanked. 1 have sent you three 
 letters which was left here. Thus, desiring to be present in your heart, 
 though absent in body, I rest your ever loving wife. 
 
 1625, September. Very rough draft by Sir John Coke of his letter 
 to the Duke of Buckingham, as to the ships in the river in preparation 
 for sea, making master- of merchant ship* engaged by the Kiug 
 captains. The absence of authority from the city from fear of infection. 
 Precautions to be taken against invasion by forces of the Archduchess, 
 Spinola, and Gondomar.
 
 216 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION, 
 
 CokeMSS. 1625, October 6. Plymouth. Sir J. Coke to Sir Edward Giles. 
 
 (Copy.) 
 
 After the Lord General and the Lord Marshal were the one returned 
 to Court and the other put to sea, your letter to the Lord Marshal came 
 to my hands concerning the relief and discharging of soldiers left behind. 
 I have taken this order, as well out of my duty and zeal to his Majesty's 
 honour and service, as out of my respect to the countries which have 
 showed so great forwardness therein and out of pity and commiseration 
 of the poor distressed creatures which ought not to be neglected. 
 
 1625, October 6. Copy of Sir J. Coke's advice to the Justices con- 
 cerning the discharge of soldiers which the army hath left behind. 
 
 To my honourable friends the Deputy Lieutenants and Justices of 
 the Peace of the county of Devon. 
 
 1625, October 6. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke "Copy of my letter to 
 Mr. Waltham of Kenn, for Monsieur Soubise's entertainment, from 
 Plymouth." 
 
 The misfortune of Monsieur Soubise, a great man of Fiance of our 
 religion and near allied to his Majesty, hath forced him with the remains 
 of his fleet to seek succour in our ports. He is taking his journey 
 towards Mr. Paulet's at Hinton, where he sojourneth for a time. The 
 Mayor of Totnes provideth for his entertainment, one night, and your 
 house lying directly in his way if you please to give him his first night's 
 lodging you shall do suitably to this country's hospitality, and shall also 
 show an acceptable respect to his Majesty's near kinsman, and express 
 your good affection to the cause for which this noble man suffereth. 
 
 1625, October 8. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke " Copy of a letter to 
 the Lord Duke of Buckingham. 
 
 The fleet has put out from Plymouth with a fair wind. Only the 
 Lion by a fatal accident is left, she struck on her own anchor. She 
 must be carried to Chatham to be repaired in dry dock. The Earls of 
 Essex and Denbigh, the Lords Cromwell and Delaware at Falmouth 
 attend the Admiral. The French King's rear Admiral is put into 
 Falmouth. I have advised the Captain of Pendennis to keep them 
 there embargoed till his Majesty may have notice and to keep the ships 
 of Monsieur Soubise in protection. What further order I have taken 
 to send away the prizes, and to satisfy the country who complained very 
 much of the numbers of the soldiers sick and whole that still be upon 
 them, I shall give account when 1 wait upon you at Court. 
 
 1625. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Captain Love's Instructions for 
 the Fleet." 
 
 The Admirals and Officers are to speak with me twice a day, morning 
 and evening, to receive my directions and commands which the rest of 
 the ships are duly to perform. If 1 be ahead I will stay for them, if to 
 leeward, I will bear up to them. If foul weather should happen you 
 are not to come too near me or any other ship to hazard any danger at 
 all. And when I have hailed you you are to fall astern that the rest of 
 the ships in like manner may come up to receive my commands. You 
 shall every night fall astern of me and the Admirals of your several 
 squadrons unto the places assigned unto you and follow their lights, 
 receiving instructions from me or tliem in the morning what 
 course to hold. And if you shall at any time be separated from the 
 fleet by foul weather, chace, or otherwise you shall shape your course 
 for the southward cape upon the coast of Spain, in the latitude of 37, 
 one of the places of rendezvous. If you miss me there then sail directly 
 for the bay of Cales (Cadiz) or St. Lucar, which is the other place
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 217 
 
 assigned for rendezvous. These two Articles are drawn out till (he Coke MSS. 
 rest can be furnished to give notice of the rendezvous if they should 
 lose company. Tho. Love. 
 
 1625, October 12. "The attestation of Thomas Nelme," taken at 
 Plymouth respecting the ship St. George, employed at Genoa by 
 Fr. Spinola, and detained at Naples. 
 
 162,'i, October 12. Warwick. Fulke Grevyl, Lord Brooke, to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 From my Lord of Buckingham 1 received a letter dated at Southamp- 
 ton to let me know you were advanced to this place 1 . The expectation 
 of your preferment in the world is great, your poAvers by nature and 
 education I think as equal as any man's living for that place. Counsel 
 I cannot give you other than not to change the many years acquaintance 
 with yourself for any sudden or tempting liberties of a brave undertaking 
 court. With my noble cousin the Lord Conway grow together, you 
 have one root and the world is large enough for two. I ask you how 
 this change of wounding our own church with our own weapons stole 
 in since the first instructions which so providently restrained that 
 French desired liberty. Again why this fleet hath been so long 
 suspended in this first undertaking of ours when good success against 
 stirring adversaries commonly follows the preventing of expectation. 
 At Coventry they say the island of Cecill is your rendezvous. God 
 bless the work and my Lord Duke's journeys both into France and the 
 Low Countries because the world will discover in it how bravely he 
 takes upon him the hazard of being a public author of this great revolu- 
 tion. My health hath been very casual, and this sudden and solitary 
 retreat more heavy at the first than I do now begin to find it. 
 
 1625, October 17. Sir James Bagg to Mr. Secretary Coke. 
 
 The waters impeached my trust by overflowing their banks and 
 destroying the Chudleigh and Newton Bushel bridges. The Lion 
 unrigged. The fleet of prizes mostly ready and stay foi a wind. Mr. 
 Lieutenant (Sir A. Apsley), Sir Henry Palmer, and Mr. Marsh are 
 diligent and earnest to despatch away for they cry out upon the scent 
 of this town. Upon Saturday the Admiral set sail from Plymouth ami 
 my Lord of Essex happily met the fleet. They are now if their course 
 lie that way as high as Cales (Cadiz) God for His glorv give them 
 victory. The Matthew and the William two of the colliers in 
 which there are 284 soldiers have indiscreetly lost the fleet and are now 
 at Falmouth. They gave chase to two Hamburgers which put into 
 Falmouth, and there the Captains Roskimmer and White with one Udal 
 imprest from them, 600 pieces of eight, and for their pass and discharge 
 gave them the one, a copy of which I enclose, how senseless it is you 
 will judge. 1 think they now stand in the state of pirates. IT your 
 Honour think fit to stay those two ill captains, Ryder and Draper will 
 1)0 serviceable to this action. They are men of ancient experience and 
 staid in their ways. For the Hamburgers as most of their foods wen- 
 laden at Port a Port (Oporto) by Portuguese, so it will appear to belong 
 to them or Jews at Hamburg which I will endeavour to make appear. 
 My officers have their sails, and my trusty brother, Mr. Francis 
 Trelawney, and Mi-. Bird will ride thither and shut up their holds. I 
 will send them to Plymouth and with the fleet to London. There is 
 one Mr. John Trefusis, a Justice of Peace in Cornwall, a near neighbour 
 to Falmouth Harbour, who hath received some chests and trunks ashore 
 out of one of the Hamburgers. 1 have given Trelawney and Bird full 
 power by search to possess themselves of what they find. 1 will blanch
 
 218 HISTOKICAL MANUSCKIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 no fault of any one that by his authority in the country shall endeavour 
 to prejudice His Majesty. In the erecting of the post or packet between 
 Plymouth and Falmouth your Honour will do his Majesty good service. 
 Nominates persons for stages to Looe, St. Austell, Truro and Penryn. 
 I beseech you to mind Mr. Nicholas of my warrant for the tenths 
 because his way is to love the just servants of my master. 
 
 1625, October 17. Plymouth. Sir Allen A.psley, Lieutenant of the 
 Tower of London, to Sir John Coke, Knight, a principal Secretary of 
 State to His Majesty at Court or elsewhere. 
 
 Sir John Ogle is as understanding, worthy, and deserving a gent as 
 any of his rank and quality in His Majesty's three kingdoms. 12 
 of the fleet of prize ships already under the island, the rest to-morrow. 
 The wind hitherunto, thanks be to God, fair for Spain. Roskimmer 
 and White (formerly a pirate) have for aught appears (going out with 
 the fleet from Plymouth) wilfully lost the fleet to turn pirates, and have 
 begun already in robbing two Hamburgers. 
 
 1625, October 17. Chatham. Josua Downynge to Sir John Coke. 
 Information needed in appointment of officers. Wishes for the place 
 of surveyor. 
 
 1625, October 18. Salisbury. Secretary Sir John Coke to Lord 
 Brooke at Warwick Castle. 
 
 Being sent for to wait upon His Majesty at Plymouth and there 
 obtaining the honour of his service in Sir Albert Morton's place, 1 
 presently by letters gave your Honour an account of this change. 1 
 stayed at Plymouth till Wednesday last, and then came hither to Salisbury 
 on Saturday. The fleet set sail out of the Sound the 1st of October, 
 and was by contrary wind driven back the next day, and set sail again 
 on the 8th, and as we hope are before this on the enemies coast. 
 When the Duke came away the 4th of October I was left behind both 
 to see the ships gone and to take order for the sending about to London 
 of 20 prizes. Sir Henry Palmer at his coming into the Downs is to 
 keep the Narrow Seas as Admiral. Since my coming to Court I 
 find the Lord Keeper upon the point of leaving his place and returning 
 to his studies in his proper diocese. His successor is designed the 
 worthy Attorney. The Lord Duke is gone for the Low Countries, 
 but is not yet embarked. The King of France besieges Rochelle 
 by Sea, but by land leaves it open. On Monday next the Court 
 removeth towards Windsor and then to Hampton Court if the sickness 
 shall abate. We are full of hope that God beginneth to stay his 
 hand, because now in London the tenth person dieth not of those that 
 are ^.ick, and generally the plague seems changed into an ague. The 
 term is kept at Reading, as the proclamation will tell you. 
 
 1625, October 20. Plymouth. Sir Allen Apsley and Sir Henry 
 Palmer to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Stating how they have discharged the business of fitting the prizes 
 (amongst which are the Star^&nd the Hawk of Schiedam) for sea. 
 
 1625, October 21. Cowes. Captain Anthony Ersfield and Matthew 
 Brooke to Sir John Coke, Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 The Bloom Pott of Rotterdam may meet the fleet to be under the 
 convoy of the Assurance with the rest, or may be convoyed by the 
 Great Neptune, Captain Gyles, now at Stokes Bay and bound up for 
 the Downs.
 
 HISTOKICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 219 
 
 1625, October 22. Chatham. Josua Downynge to Mr. Burrell, one Cokh MSS 
 of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy in Poplar. 
 
 Good guard to be kept in the Eiver (Medway) and at Upnor. 12 
 sail of the Dunkirk ships be gotten to sea. That road should be spoiled 
 by burning and sinking vessels therein. 
 
 1625, October 22. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The Lieutenant (Sir A. Apsley) and Sir H. Palmer were yesterday 
 morning aboard and are this morning blest with a good wind. Beef 
 shall be dry salted, though it may not be for so long a time as to pickle 
 it. I doubt the sufficiency of the coopers for the preparing casks for 
 pickle. Of the fleet I can say nothing. I lay all the ports for news, 
 and at my charge will have it posted to me, and shall not give it one 
 minute's delay until I send it to your hands. Mr. Rockwell had carefully 
 chested his fish for your Hononr. I pray it like you. In your Honour's 
 chest of writing is a book of mine, which contains the receipts of divers 
 men for money received of me. 
 
 1625, October 22. Poplar. W. Burrell to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty and one of His Majesty's most 
 Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Thex'e are two ships at Gravesend (Alathea and William and 
 John) which were first taken by us to serve the King, being bound to 
 Ireland for pilchera (pilchards ?) and from there into the Straits. They 
 show 20 pieces of ordnance apiece. Two ships cannot be fitted into the 
 Downs with that expedition required if we take not these ships. I 
 desire not to be known to give your Honour knowledge of them, because 
 I shall be hardly thought of by their masters and owners and challenged 
 by Sir J. Wolstenholme. Necessary that all the ships in the Downs 
 were hastened to the westwards to meet the prizes that are coining 
 about with a weak guard. Land carriage of the timber in Sussex at a 
 stand. 
 
 1625, October 23. Edmonton. Thomas Alured to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty and of His Majesty's most 
 Honourable Privy Council. (Sec October 26.) 
 
 Mr. Styles is doubtful whether Sir Morris Abbott be at Woodford or 
 Croydon, but confident the Governor will attend you to-morrow in the 
 afternoon. I enclose my letter to the Earl of Northampton. It is 
 reported here the new Lord Keeper went hence on Wednesday, and this 
 day receives the seals. Since you pleased to motion it I find it so sorting 
 to my disposition and suitable to my former condition (the Presidentship 
 of Wales being in a low remote degree a resemblance and epitome of the 
 Chancellorship of England) that it would fully satisfy my expectation 
 and ambition ; neither have I fear of failing but in being too late. 
 
 1625, October 24. The Downs. Sir Allen Apsley and Sir Henry 
 Palmer to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries of 
 State and one of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 We have brought the prizes from Plymouth. We onlv stay for pilots. 
 For the prize at Portsmouth we sent in a ship. One of those of Schiedam 
 proved leaky. Captain Herbert's ship is commanded presently hence. 
 We take the Entrance for our guard as far as then' may be danger 
 of an enemy. The Dunkirkers being gotten free, we must expect all 
 desperate attempts. (Added by Sir A. Apsley) 1 have ordered that Sir 
 John Wolstenholme may view all the rooms in the Tower, for I conceive 
 it will require many to stow the goods of the hulks of 18 ships. 
 
 1625, October 24. Sir John Coke, Sir John Wolstenholme, Francis 
 Goston, and William Burrell, Commissioners of the Navy, to Sir George
 
 220 HISTOIUCAX. MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokb mss. Moore, Sir Francis Studwell, and Sir Thomas Biudder, knights, Justices 
 of the Peace in the County of Surrey or to any of them. 
 
 We understand that delay is made of land carriage of His Majesty's 
 timber and plank at Dorking and other places in Surrey by reason of 
 your denial to levy the carriages upon the country according as is usual 
 in other shires (Kent, Essex. Hampshire). When it was left to the 
 Surveyor complaints were often made of partiality and corruption. We 
 pray you to take order for the carriage to the water side at Kingston. 
 It is an especial service for the King and kingdom, being for the building 
 of 4 ships of war. We may be forced to acquaint the Lords where we 
 find the let. 
 
 1625, October 25. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke. 
 The copy of my letters of the 17th and 22nd of October sent unto 
 your Honour from Plymouth. 
 
 1625, October 26. Minute of a letter (of Sir John Coke) to the New 
 Lord Keeper (Coventry) for Mr. Alured. He is religious honest and 
 learned, Avrites a good hand, was secretary to the Lord Eure while he 
 lived President of Wales, in a word he is a man upon whose faith and 
 ability you may safely rely, if your Lordship shall be pleased to accept 
 him as one of your secretaries. He hath a situation in the Marches of 
 Wales. 
 
 1625, October 27. His house at Fulham. Sir Thomas Button to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty at 
 Tottenham. 
 
 My own afflictions the greatest that may be, want of health, want of 
 means, and heavy adversaries. This evening being in my fit came a 
 letter from Mr. Nicholas, dated at Plymouth the 6th, and with it a letter 
 from yourself to your noble lady. I write somewhat in answer of those 
 heavy complaints which Mr. Nicholas writes are made against my ship 
 and Captain Harris's for their lying in harbour continually. 1 am here tied 
 by command and necessity of not receiving my own any time since our 
 return from Algiers. This bearer hath been my servant in the soliciting 
 the despatch of this and my last ship any time this eight years. 28 years 
 that I have served His Majesty and His predecessors I never did dis- 
 honest nor base act. Neither of the moneys procured order for by your 
 Honour, my entertainment in the office of the Navy, my pension for my 
 more than miserable voyage to the North-west (which is not the least 
 cause of my present languishings), my fee in Ireland nor any other dues 
 to me from His Majesty that I can receive one penny of to relieve me, 
 my wife and seven children. Why this course should be held to meward 
 I know not but for my sins to my Maker, from whom I acknowledge on 
 the knees of my heart I have deserved much more, but from His Majesty 
 or the State I do most confidently say I have not deserved it. If please 
 you to enlarge your power so far as to be a mean that I may have some 
 end of that which you have nobly begun. 
 
 1 625, October 30. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke, Knight, one 
 of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Right Honourable, I am moved by my Lord D'Eyneourt to whom 1 
 am very much bounden so as I may not deny him (especially in so reason- 
 able a request as this) to commend his cause unto your best furtherance. 
 The matter is thus : Old Sir Francis Leake, his father, now growing 
 feeble and weak and not likely to continue long, his lady, stepmother to 
 my Lord D'Eyneourt against all Christian charity will not suffer my 
 Lord nor any of his children to come to him either to do their duties or 
 receive, his blessing, but shuts the gates against them to their great dis-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 221 
 
 comfort and prejudice. This unconscionable dealing of the mother-in- Coke MSS. 
 law hath formerly been complained on to our late Sovereign King James, 
 who was graciously pleased (for redress thereof) to grant his warrant, 
 which this bearer will shew unto you. And my Lord's suit is that 
 according to this former precedent you would procure him another from 
 His Majesty, yet in respect that he well knoweth that his mother-in-law 
 is now so powei'ful over his father's weakness that she can make the old 
 knight to do what she pleases, his desire is that the clause in the King's 
 warrant concerning the father's allowance may be left out of this, if pos- 
 sibly you may. Thus have I been bold to give you a taste of this cause, 
 and leave the fuller relation hereof unto the bearer my Lord's servant, 
 and the whole cause to your friendly consideration, and so with remem- 
 brance of my best love unto you I take leave. 
 
 1625, October . Salisbury. George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, 
 to Sir John Coke, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries (at 
 Plymouth). 
 
 Mister Secretary, That news you sent me concerning the papists 
 His Majesty had notice of coining to Plymouth. I hope before this time 
 there is order taken in it. I am glad to hear that at the last the fleet is 
 parted. All happiness attend it. Yesterday the foul weather forced me 
 to stay here with Sir Edward Seymour. I pray you bid Gabriel deliver 
 as much money to the poor French cook as was in his girdle, he must 
 oidy keep back the sum of ten crowns that my barber lent him. Sir 
 James Bagg put into my hand a paper for me to sign at parting whereby 
 I should have made him my Collector in Devonshire and Cornwall, but 
 having already made my cousin Drake of Devonshire there will rest to 
 him but that of Wales. 1 pray you let Nicholas my Secretary give him 
 that answer. I pray you make haste out of that unwholesome place 
 when; now you are, lest the unsavouriness of it prejudice your health, 
 which I wish as equally well to as to his that rests your faithful friend 
 and humble servant G. Buckingham. 
 
 1625, November 1. James Bagg to Sir John Coke. 
 The roll of the mariners mustered .aboard the Red Lion. 
 
 1625, November . Bigrave. Radulphus Minors to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Fidem diligentiamque adhibiturus sum in filiolo tuo recte instituendo. 
 Describes the daily studies in Ovid, Virgil, Terence, and Cicero, and on 
 Saturdays Nowell's Catechism. 
 
 1625, November 2. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley to Sir John 
 Coke at his house at Tottenham High Cross. 
 Victualling of ships. 
 
 1625, November 2. Examinations as to 3 prizes sent in by the Fleet. 
 Posthorse, of (sic) Copenhaven, Red Hart, of Calais, Fortune, of 
 Hamburg, all laden at St. Lucar. 
 
 1625, Noveml>er 2. Aboard the Anne Royal. Captain Thomas 
 Love to Sir John Coke, Knight, Secretary to the King's Majesty. 
 
 A vehement storm for two days and nights. The long Robert 
 perished with 175 sea and land men with all our long boats an 1 one 
 ketch. We arrived in the bay of Cales (Cadiz) on Saturday the 22nd of 
 October. Some English and Dutch played upon the fort of PoinUtll all 
 night, forced it and took 8 pieces of brass ordnance. On Monduv 
 My Lord took a resolution to go up to the bridge but did ret inn next 
 day by reason of the inability of his men and their great disorder with 
 wine. The enemies ships went up to I'ort Royal and there hauled 
 themselves into a creek, our ships could not come unto them. The 25th
 
 222 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coeb MSS. of the same month a resolution was taken by the Council to ship our men 
 again, for a siege we were not prepared, our men lay in the rain night 
 and day without any covering or harbour. It is resolved to send away 
 12 or 14 sail of the coal ships and the horse ships. In the light we 
 were in as much danger of our own men as of the enemy, the greatest 
 part of our sea and land men have neither will nor ability. We are now 
 put to sea again to meet with the West Indies fleet. There are three 
 ships taken, come laden from St. Lucar, supposed to Dunkirk, one 
 believed to have good store of money in the sacks of wool. This ship 
 is very unfit by reason her lower deck lieth so low as the water comes 
 in. Captain Raymont who is now slain took John Pricker one of the 
 three who saith he doth belong to Copenhagen, and took from him 
 cochineal and tobacco. Here be enough to take all that can come into 
 their hands ; one man is not able to keep it all together. 
 
 1G25, November 2. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries. 
 
 As for your Honour's direction for Sir George Chudleigh, Sir William 
 Stroud, and Mr. Mayor's assistance for the examining of Roskimmer 
 and White their going hence will ease them of that pains. Falmouth 
 46 miles from Plymouth and out of the county where they are Justices. 
 The two Hamburgers rest at Falmouth safe under my arrest. I have 
 taken into my keeping 1,100 pieces of eight which being left aboard 
 would have been embezzled. Sir Francis Steuart negotiates at Court 
 by his servants Kilpatrick and Elliott and speaks here of the letters he 
 receives from His Majesty's own pen. He rested at Hooe, the little 
 house in the southward creek, neither went he any where but aboard the 
 Lion where he seems a demi-god. The Lion is being resheathed. 
 I long for nothing more than to hear happy news of the fleet. To this 
 hasty letter from one Prickman I cannot give much faith, yet I should 
 be a most happy man the news might prove true that Lisbon were by 
 them taken. This day after dinner Mr. Cause, Mr. Apsley and myself 
 will to Ashe where I have sent a painter to draw out the river and they 
 shall scale out the dock and report their opinions. I beseech your 
 Honour I may understand of my Lord's going, his time of stay in 
 Holland and the time of his return. I desire to have your advice 
 concerning the Eochellers who are in preparing for the sea. The Dutch 
 freebooters in their returns visit our ports with their Spanish prizes. I 
 wish we could find a lawful way to make it answer His Majesty and the 
 Lord Admiral some profit. 
 
 1625, November 2. De la Maison de Monsieur Poulett, Soubize (Due 
 de) a Mons. Mons. Coke, Secretaire d'Etat a Hampton Court. 
 
 Monsieur, la necessite de mes affaires me fait depecher vers vous le 
 Sieur Pallenger mon pasteur present porteur pour vous en entretenir 
 particulierement. Je vous supplie de prendre creance en ce qu'il vous 
 en (lira de ma part et me continuer en cette occasion la bonne volonte 
 que vous m'avez temoignee en toutes autres et me croire Monsieur votre 
 plus affectionne serviteur. 
 
 1G25, November 3. Hinton. John Poulett to Sir John Coke, 
 Secretary of State to His Majesty at Court. 
 
 This gentleman the bearer is a minister and sent from Monsieur de 
 Soubize with letters to His Majesty to request continuance of favours 
 and benefits and His Majesty's assistance. He hath also written to 
 your Honour to advertise you of the state of his affairs. He remains 
 still in my house.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 223 
 
 1625, November 5. Sir John Coke to Lord Brooke, one of His cokb MSS. 
 Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. (Draft.) 
 
 The last letter I received from the Lord Admiral was written from 
 on board the Guardland at Harwich and dated 31st October. His 
 purpose was not to stay above 10 days in the Low Countries and his 
 desire that his journey should not be divulged lest his wife might take 
 an apprehension to hurt her in the estate she now is. For the French 
 I will excuse no error, nor can give you any good account how the 
 instruction for the ships not to be employed against them of the religion 
 was changed. Only this I can assure your Honour that I had neither 
 hand nor fore knowledge of it. Now our eyes are opened and we shall 
 endeavour by all means to recover the ships as soon as is possible. 
 The late French Ambassador will do his best to amuse us, but his ways 
 and ends are well known. Your Lordship hath full information of all 
 proceedings concerning the change of the Keeper. He vaunted he could 
 have intercession made for him not only by the most powerful mediators 
 but by the generality of the land. Yet it pleased the good Bishop 
 rather to submit himself to His Majesty's pleasure than to use Ins 
 strength. By the change His Majesty hath gained a solid and grave 
 counsellor and the Lord Duke hath given the world a very good satis- 
 faction as well by the removing of the one as by the advancement of 
 the other. The rempest gave pretence to two Newcastle ships com- 
 manded by two gentlemen used to shark at sea to lose the fleet and give 
 chase to two Hamburgers whom (hey forced into Falmouth and got 
 some monies from them. The same storm distressed the Hollanders 
 before Dunkirk and cast away three of our merchants in Calais road 
 and let the Dunkirkers out to sea who as we hear have spoiled about GO 
 Holland busses and lie upon the coast about Scarborough. The same 
 fleet which carrieth the Lord I)uke for Holland goeth hence to join with 
 the Hollanders in pursuit of those Dunkirkers and we make ready 10 
 ships more to fetch the Duke back. The King is expected at Theobalds 
 and purposeth to hunt there two or three days and so return to Hampton 
 Court. The Queen is not yet come to Hampton. The decreasing of 
 the sickness beginneth to open the world. 
 
 1625, November 5. Aboard the- Happy Entrance in the Downs. 
 Sir Henry Pahner to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Principal 
 Secretaries of State and one of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy 
 Council. 
 
 I have stayed the Great Neptune. Please to have the Nonsuch 
 and the four ships at Gravesend speedily sent into the Downs that 1 
 may not fail my Lord Duke's command of being in Holland within eight 
 days after his departure from Harwich. The prize 1 sent into Ports- 
 mouth is now with the Bloom Pot. They will remain at Dover Pier 
 till your Honour sends order how you please to have them disposed of. 
 Here hath come into the Downs no ship fit for service since I received 
 order from my Lord Duke to stay all both inward and outward bound. 
 
 1625, November 6. Hampton Court. Richard Graham to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, Secretary of State. 
 
 My Lord hath left directions with me for the preparing of a present 
 of all sorts to follow him with and amongst the rest a certain number of 
 deer both of red and fallow. My request, is that you will give your 
 assistance to a warrant which his Lordship hath directed to his servant 
 K. Perry and Grandenor for the pressing of two ships out of the river 
 of Thames to Roane (Rouen) in France and that you will direct your 
 orders to the Treasurer of the Navy for the present despatch of this 
 His Majesty's service.
 
 
 
 Ord. 
 
 - 300 
 
 26 
 
 - 240 
 
 22 
 
 - 2i0 
 
 20 
 
 - 300 
 
 20 
 
 - 300 
 
 20 
 
 - 300 
 
 20 
 
 224 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 ComMSS. 1625, Novembei 5-7. Note by Sir John Coke. The ships appointed 
 
 to be made ready for fetching the Lord Admir.il from Holland. 
 
 Merchant ships, Delight - 
 
 Merchant Bonadventure 
 
 Lion - 
 
 Prizes, St. Jacques - 
 
 St. Anne - 
 
 St. Claud .... 
 
 " Advertisements " written by Sir J. Coke, headed ' Mr. Abraham 
 Chamberlain." 
 
 Humphrey Lloyd, at Highgate, a desperate recusant, practises con- 
 tinually with papists and priests. Henricks, a Dutchman, a dangerous 
 intelligencer for foreign parts and a merchant of worth, a subject to the 
 Arch Duchess. Holbrooke, another Dutchman, renegade. He applied 
 himself to Grondemar and hath done many ill offices about the palatinate. 
 Mr. Chamberlain passing by the Grande Chartreuse near Grenoble met 
 there o Jesuits, Deputies for their society to Home, who said that 40 
 Jesuits met lately in London to settle the affairs of religion. A Hol- 
 lander who went in the fleet for the Straits went directly to Genoa and 
 there delivered 400 barrels of powder. 
 
 1625, November 6. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I find the pypestaves is a thing of more difficulty. It will require 
 600 thousand of pypestaves ; the means of the Low Countries and 
 Ireland must be used. Letters should be sent to inhibit the transport 
 of such out of that kingdom. 
 
 1625, November 7. His house at Hoddesdonbury, in Hertfordshire, 
 Sir Thomas Wilson to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's 
 principal Secretaries at Court. 
 
 You may well marvel that this letter of mine cometh to you so late 
 to congratulate for the great place of honour that it hath pleased His 
 Majesty to call you unto. It hath pleased God to visit me the most 
 part of this summer with a tedious lingering ague, whereof I had four 
 several; relapses, I was heartily glad when I heard the first certain 
 news thereof, for His Majesty's sake ; for the State's and Kingdom's 
 sake; for your friends' sake; for your own sake; and for my own 
 sake, being assured I shall find you an honourable friend to the place 
 that I serve His Majesty in, whereof His Secretaries have ever made 
 most use, ond which I trust shall be often honoured with your presence. 
 I send you a general catalogue of all things thai are contained in the 
 office. Our late worthy Secretary that lived for a little: while in that 
 place had of me a great sort of papers which he borrowed. 
 
 1625, November 8. Aboard the Anne Royal. Sir Ed. Cecyll to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the principal Secretaries of State at 
 Court. 
 
 Our journey hath not deceived me, being a winter journey, finding 
 an enemy so long prepared for us, having no harbour to befriend us, 
 wanting our long boats to land our men, and hardly a ship of the whole 
 fleet clean enough for the chase of a prize. My ship hath as much 
 cause to complain as any, both for her leaks, the danger of losing her 
 main mast, and her ill condition refusing by any means to hull in the 
 storm, when she took in so much water as all the mariners were forced 
 to work in water up to the knees. Our prizes are yet but 3. I have
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION". 225 
 
 given sack to the Colonels for beverage. My Lord of Essex, Vice- Ookb iiss. 
 Admiral, had a barrel of tobacco, and my Lord of Denbigh another. 
 I had much ado to keep the Captains that did chase the prizes from 
 breaking bulk. We find there can be little done by land and not much 
 by sea, only to keep the plate fleet from arriving this part of the winter, 
 which will be the greatest hindrance to the King of Spain's proceed- 
 ings. So long as His Majesty shall have a good fleet here at sea Eng- 
 land and Ireland will be well defended and Spain blocked up. I could 
 wish that if His Majesty resolve to continue a war these land men may 
 be bestowed in some garrisons to be exercised to their muskets. I am 
 to make an humble suit to your Honour that in regard His Majesty by 
 my Lord Duke's means was pleased to give me the choice of what place 
 I desired my Viscountship, which at first I did choose of Wimbledon; 
 that now I may have it to be Lord Cecyll Viscount Latymer, because it 
 was the ancient title of my grandfather by my mother's side. This 
 favour if you can procure me you shall for ever bind me to be your 
 servant. 
 
 162.5, November 9. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke 
 Sends draft and computation for the dock at Ashe. The 2 Ham- 
 burgers rest at Falmout i. The lemons on board are perishable and 
 shall be sold. A copy of Roskimmer's and White's pass given the 
 Hamburgers. Mr. Trefusis erred to take anything in his keeping 
 without order. I think he hath done no other hurt. The Lion's 
 sheathing is ended. The completing the number of 250 men -will 
 require most time. I beseech you send me a warrant that may enable 
 me to press. I will send a careful man to press at Dartmouth and 
 Salcombe. The Truelorc is come hither; in her I will send your geld- 
 ing, I hope sound and in good condition of body. I apprehend your 
 direction to me to take the command of the Lion upon me to the 
 Downs. The two Hamburgers and the Truelove shall come with her. 
 In the disposal of the prixe goods if you make me a Commissioner 
 I will in the end give you assurance that I am your honest servant. 
 Somewhat more may be said in this which rather admits discourse than 
 writing. The farm of the Customs ends at Christmas. I hope you have 
 been mindful of the post to Falmouth. In mine of the 30th I gave 
 you a touch of the Rochellers at Fowey. 
 
 1625, November 9. Maidenhead. Richard Wyon to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Secretary of State to His Majesty, at his house at Tottenham or 
 elsewhere. 
 
 I took out under seal writs to call all claiiners to the prizes to appear 
 at Maidenhead on Saturday next to propound their interests. Since 
 my coming hither 1 had intelligence of a remonstrance to His Majesty 
 on the behalf of the Ambassadors of France and (he States and Sir 
 Edward Conway's letters to Sir Henry Marten. I have obtained copies 
 and herein enclose them. I cannot hear where the King's advocate is. 
 
 Copy of two letters from Sir Edward Conway. The Ambassadors 
 demand suspension of proceedings respecting the prizes for one month. 
 Answered them that the Judge is to do equal and speedy justice. 
 
 1625, November 10. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 Asks authority for discharge of seamen. Asks whether Flanders 
 post may go in and out at his pleasure. Stays no goods but those that 
 come from Dunkirk and those hound that way, yet the French Ambas- 
 sador hath complained upon him. 
 
 U 249G3. p
 
 226 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1625, November 10. The Downs. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 The Faith. The goods are alleged to be Genoeses and Venetians. 
 Ships to be sent over to attend my Lord Duke in his return. 
 
 1625, November 11. Aboard the Royal Ann, 50 leagues W.N.W. 
 of the Southward Cape. Captain Thomas Love to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries, per Captain Polkin- 
 horne. 
 
 All the Spanish fleet is returned from Brazil. One of the prizes 
 and one of the horse ships are missing. The Rainbow proves very 
 leaky and weak, and is sent home with six of the coal ships and the 
 prizes and the horse ships. The St. George hath above 160 men sick, 
 and we above 60. It is resolved to lie here yet ten days more to see if 
 the West Indies fleet will come. Therefore we keep ourselves between 
 the latitudes of 39 and 37. Our beer proves bad and our water is 
 spent, and few men willing to do service. 
 
 1625, November 11. Dover. Richard Swift to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of the principal Secretaries of State to His Majesty. 
 
 It pleased Sir W. Russell to order my coming to Dover for taking 
 account of the goods received out of the " Merchant Royal " of Sandwich, 
 and the goods now to be received out of the Scotch ship the " Blessing " 
 of Burntisland. I am now unlading the Scotch ship and housing her 
 goods. The lading is all very good goods copper in plates, 100 hogs- 
 heads laden by Algers, cambrics and lawns, linen cloth, new Dutch 
 stuffs and tapestries, sayes, grograms, wax, linseed oil, and haberdashery . 
 Here are also divers other goods under arrest, part housed in the town , 
 others remaining still in the ships, and are likely to come to great 
 damage both in decaying and leakage, especially the French wine an d 
 oils. 
 
 1625, November 16. At sea. Sir Edward Cecyll to Sir James 
 Bagg, Knight, at Plymouth. 
 
 There being complaint made unto me that one Ensign Pennant 
 should speak some irreverent words of my Lord Conway, upon exami- 
 nation I found him to be guilty, whereupon I have cashiered him from 
 his company, and have sent him unto you with Captain Polkinhorne to 
 keep him safe custody until you shall acquaint His Majesty's most 
 honourable Privy Council therewithal. 
 
 1625, November 17. On board the Antelope, riding in Kinsale Har- 
 bour. Captain Anthony Rice to Sir Thomas Button, Knight, Admiral 
 of His Majesty's ships on the coast of Ireland, and one of the honour- 
 able Council at War, at Fulham, near London, or elsewhere. 
 
 For His Majesty's special occasions. The powder barque arrived at 
 Limerick. I have plied off and on the Blasquets to have met with 
 Hamburgh ships bound for Spain, but happened on none. There is 
 aboard a matter of three weeks' victuals. Mr. Brooke tells me there 
 will be no further credit given him. Some money I procured him from 
 Mr. Nicholas Bedloe. Your unfeigned loving brother, though poor and 
 unfortunate. 
 
 1625, November 17. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 The news is here that the Dunkirks are all come back again but two, 
 which they think be sunk, and I cannot hear of any hurt they have 
 done but among the fishermen. They have taken some 300 of these 
 men, which they have sent up the country, but they are making ready
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 227 
 
 shallopes apace, and this week the Arch Duchess goes to Brussels. I 
 have re-examined the escape of the Dutchman out of the Castle. I 
 hear that the goods at Portsmouth be better worth there than twenty 
 thousand pounds, and will do good in the State. 
 
 1625, November 17. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke, 
 knight, one of His Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 A remembrance of such things as were observed in the houses of 
 Roinish recusants and others suspected within the Hundreds of Morles- 
 ton and Litchurch, Appletree, and Repton and Gresley in the county 
 of Derby, at such times as the houses were searched by the Deputy 
 Lieutenants of the said county for their arms and warlike weapons by 
 commandment from the Lords of His Majesty's most honourable Privy 
 Council in November 1625. 
 
 First, we found no arms save such as belonged to the trained bands, 
 which we caused to be delivered to the captains to be used in training 
 as formerly they had been according to the Lords' letters. I conceive 
 that either the recusants had notice of these letters before they came to 
 us (which in truth they had), and conveyed the arms away, or else that 
 the better sort having had their arms taken from them about ten or 
 twelve years' since, and committed to the then Sheriff's custody had not 
 provided others, but I rather believe the former. 
 
 At Stanley Grange, a house standing alone in Appletree Hundred, 
 the doors were at the first shut against us, but after a little while 
 opened, where we found only two women in the house, who gave us to 
 understand that the Grange House belonged to one Mrs. Vause as 
 farmer thereof to Mrs. Lewdell of West Hallam, dwelling within a 
 quarter of a mile of the said Grange, both the one and the other being 
 notorious recusants. Upon search of the said house we found so many 
 rooms and chambers as I have never seen in so small a content of ground, 
 and amongst others there was two chapels, one opening into the other, 
 and in either of them a table set to the upper end for an altar, and stools 
 and cushions laid as though they had been lately at mass. Over the 
 altars there was crucifixes set, and other pictures about it. There was 
 beds and furniture for them in that little house to lodge 40 or 50 per- 
 sons at the least. 
 
 At Castle Gresley, within the Hundred of Repton and Gresley, there 
 was in one little house (not above two bays and low built) six gentle- 
 women of very good fashion outwardly and well apparelled, one of them 
 being an ancient gentlewoman called Mrs. Tamworthy, with whom the 
 rest sojourned ; another of them was Captain Allen's wife, which 
 Captain Allen had served the last year under the Archduchess, and was 
 now at London as she said; none of the said gentlewomen's husbands 
 was there, save only one whose name I remember not. They were all 
 recusants, and they had so many men and women servants and children 
 that I marvel how they could lodge in so little a house. Every one of 
 these gentlewomen had a riband of green and another of white silk tied 
 in a kind of knot upon their left arm, and (as is reported) did use to 
 give such ribands to divers of their friends and well wishers. I think 
 these women were able to make more proselytes than twenty priests, for 
 it is a pestilent kind of cunning. 
 
 At Brisselcote (not far from Castle Gresley and in that Hundred), 
 being in the house of John Merry, gentleman, and half a mile remote 
 from any town we found a Dutchman, by trade a painter, who was then 
 drawing of the picture of one of those gentlewomen (which we had seen 
 at Castle Gresley), beholding a crucifix painted before her a little higher 
 that she might look up to it. 
 
 P 2 
 
 Coke MSS.
 
 228 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 0K JL_ ' * At West B rough ton (in this Hundred of Appletree), in two farmers' 
 houses being convict recusants we saw such store of beds and other pro- 
 vision of butter, cheese, and pork as is not usual in such men's houses. 
 These were tenants to Sir Henry Merry. 
 
 At Alkmanton in this Hundred of Appletree, in two other farmers' 
 houses being tenants to Mr. Barnsley, we found the like. 
 
 Furthermore, for that we had received notice from Mr. Levinge, a 
 counsellor in the Inner Temple, and a gentleman of good credit, that 
 there had been examinations taken in Leicestershire by the Lieutenant 
 or Deputy Lieutenants there, and that one of the examinants had con- 
 fessed that there had been formerly divers meetings secretly in Charn- 
 wood Forest in the County of Leicester, by the recusants, and that they 
 intended another meeting shortly after at the house of one Steedman in 
 Over Thurvaston in the County of Derby, or else at Hedleston Hall 
 not far from Steedman's house, who is bailiff to Sir Henry Shirley and 
 Sir Basil Brook of Shropshire, we thought fit to search those two houses 
 as suspected. At Hedleston Hall we found nothing, nor no man 
 dwelling, but the house void of a tenant. But at Bailiff Steedman's 
 house we savv a great preparations of bedding and victuals brought in 
 whilst we were there. And we demanding wherefore all that provision 
 was made, Steedman told us that Sir Henry Shirley, his master, and 
 Sir Basil Brook* were expected to come thither either that night, being 
 the 2nd of November or very shortly after, with some others, there to 
 hawk two or three days, but we understand since that that meeting 
 held not by reason that Sir Henry Merry's house in Leicestershire, and 
 also his house at Barton in Derbyshire, were strictly searched for arms 
 the day before, which made them then forbear in respect that Sir 
 Henry Merry should have been a principal man there as we had good 
 cause to think. 
 
 Thus have I been bold to certify you what we observed in these 
 papists' houses ; there are many other recusants and Romish affected in 
 these Hundreds, but of mean estate. 
 
 Further there have been divers great assemblies of great persons 
 Romishly affected under pretence of a marriage had betwixt Mr. Thomas 
 Eare his son, of Hassop in this county, and Sir Francis Smyth's 
 daughter, of Ashby Fallows in Com : Leicester. They and Sir Francis 
 Englefield, the son, and Sir Thomas Trentham, and other of such 
 fashion were at Hassop a whole week together to the number of one 
 hundred horses. They were also at Etwall at Mrs. Langford's house 
 there, and other places in great troops, so that the whole country took 
 notice thereof, they grew very insolent and kept company amongst 
 themselves as scorning us. Sir Henry Merry refused to pay almost 
 every payment assessed upon him for the country, that we were forced 
 to complain to my Lord Lieutenant, since which time he hath paid all 
 but those sums assessed upon him for the soldiers that went out of this 
 county the last winter and the last spring, which still he refuseth to 
 
 pay- 
 Since I had written these letters I understand that His Majesty doth 
 
 call for the arrearages of the recusants now behind and unpaid which 
 
 I am glad of; but I fear the most of them will new come to the church 
 
 having dispensations from the Pope ; for some of them have prevented 
 
 this demand of the arrearages by coming to the church about a month 
 
 since, perhaps having notice beforehand, whereof Sir Henry Shirley is 
 
 one, the worst of all being church papists. 
 
 * Proceedings against Sir Basil Brook ; Journals of the House of Commons, 
 24 April 1641.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRirTS COMMISSION. 229 
 
 Now if any thing be of use in this tedious letter you may take notice 
 thereof, the rest will be but your labour to weed and then to burn. We 
 think in this country that certainly the papists have some design in 
 hand the latter end of this summer whereof we hope they are pre- 
 vented. 
 
 For my Lord D'Eyncourt I told him how it would succeed, but I 
 was willing he should perceive no want in me, that I might receive so 
 much kindness at his hands as to get from him my father's book of 
 pedigrees, which he hath kept as you know, therefore 1 pray you accept 
 this as my excuse though it be not a good one, I confess. And thus 
 with my best love remembered to you and my sister and my prayers to 
 God for you and all yours I take leave. 
 
 1625, Nov. 18. The Mayor and Jurats of Dover, under their 
 common seal, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 For help to fortify their port, the castle and forts being weakly 
 manned and meanly furnished and fortified. 
 
 1625, November 19. The Tower. Sir John Wolstenholme, Sir Allen 
 Apsley, W. Burrell, Den. Flemyng, Commissioners of the Navy, to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, a principal Secretary of State, and one of His 
 Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 The Entrance with the Great Neptune and the two merchant 
 ships are gone for Flushing. The men taken out of the prize ship 
 taken from His Majesty's ship Lion were not paid. They have 
 refused to go for which Captain Downynge hath put four or five of the 
 ringleaders in Rochester Gaol. The four merchant ships here will be 
 ready to fall down hence upon Wednesday next. 
 
 1625, November 20. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 For your nephew that is taken by the Dunkirkers here is in Dover 
 Castle one that is condemned for piracy and here is a captain and a 
 priest and three others in Dover prison. If you will send me your 
 nephew's name 1 will send over in his behalf. 
 
 1625, November 20. Reading. Sir Robert Pye to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State at Court. 
 
 Since my coming to Hampton Court my Lord Treasurer and myself 
 are quiet. I am resolved to be silent till my Lord Duke's return. My 
 Lord Treasurer doth now intend to take all into his own and secretary's 
 hands, and endeavoureth the Chancellor should do the like, which they 
 little differ in although they are not fond one of the other. He will 
 blindfold me if he can, and I am persuaded will be lost himself ere 
 long. I principally crave your counsel herein as a friend if you hold 
 not best for me to stay and say little until my Lord Duke's coming 
 howsoever his Lordship carry his business to me. 1 cannot believe His 
 Majesty will suffer my Lord Treasurer to take any part of my place. 
 Never any Treasurer did make his secretary be present to take notes of 
 all passages which never any did communicate to any but sworn 
 officers, especially Sir Edward Wardour being my controller, I having 
 done no fault until I did prevent his doing some. 
 
 1625, November 22. Fillingham. Sir Nicholas Saunderson to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 I had the good hap to be known unto you in the last Parliament. 
 In the county of Lincoln where I dwell His Majesty may have occasion 
 to employ a man of my place. This bearer my son meaneth to spend 
 most part of his time in the Court, where I pray he may have your 
 favourable respect.
 
 230 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1625, November 23. To the Commissioners of his Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Order to be taken for the supplying and furnishing with men, victuals, 
 munition, and all necessaries, the ships hereunder named for 3 months 
 to be carried by them into the Downs, where they are to attend the Lord 
 Admiral's coming over (eight ships). The other ships which transported 
 the Lord Admiral into Holland, and which are conceived to be upon, 
 that coast to bring his Grace back, are in like sort to be supplied and 
 revictualled for three months; and these are : The' Golden Lion, Assur- 
 ance, Guardland, Happy Entrance, Mary Rose, Adventure (of the 
 King's), Great Neptune, Hector, and John Bonadventure (Merchants), 
 and all those provisions must with all speed be in readiness at Dover, 
 to be presently clapt aboard, when the Lord Admiral cometh back into 
 tb.3 Downs, where his Grace will expect them. 
 
 (1625), November 23. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 Our fleet is at Cales (Cadiz) and hath taken a new fort there. This 
 news comes from Madrid to Dunkirk. I have stayed the Antwerp post 
 and have taken out such letters as belong to Dover, for the letters that 
 are for London I have locked up in the mail, and have sent your 
 Honour the key. I think they will give you good content in your 
 business and especial have a care of one Mr. Holbecke for I find he 
 hath order to lay claim to many of the prize goods. I have likewise 
 stayed the post that is going for Antwerp. The post that should have 
 come from Antwerp last week was taken in a barque of Dover and all 
 carried to Dunkirk prisoners and if there be not some course taken 
 our Dover men will be all undone. If you will be pleased to send me 
 letters of marque I will put out a ship myself that shall keep the 
 narrow seas. Here is news come from Rome to Calais that the fleet 
 hath taken the town of Cadiz, and that the plate fleet was to arrive 
 there in three days. 
 
 1625, November 23. Hampton Court. Gilbert Thacker to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Sir Henry Wotton's four mares unfit. The coach set forth with an 
 embroderie of russet twist on green cloth, but is nothing so fresh as 
 Sir Albert Morton's. Your honour may be exceedingly well furnished 
 with four dapple grey horses of Sir E. Barrett, will cost little under 
 100/., they may be seen at his house in Marbone (Marylebone) Park. 
 
 1625, November 24. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke. 
 Sends a copy of his letter of 9th November 1625. 
 
 The violent extremity of an unknown snow falling in our country 
 the 16th hath not given passage to these till this instant. The snow 
 hath been the death of many people and the loss of many sheep and 
 cattle and within the memory of man never covered so thick the face 
 of Devon. The two Hamburgers I intend to bring to London. They 
 are laden at the Port (Oporto) by Jews and Portuguese. I bring with 
 me also the Truelove and in her your gelding, who hath a very 
 little touch of his lameness, is in flesh and well. To the Rochellese as 
 long as His Majesty is pleased to give safety, to Monsieur Soubise I 
 am a friend. I pray remember my love and service to my brother 
 Nicholas. 
 
 1625, November 26. Warwick. Fulke Grevyl, Lord Brooke, 
 to Sir John Coke, one of his Majesty's principal Secretaries. 
 
 The news of the new sheriffs was here long before. The privy seals 
 had been amongst us and our lieutenants concerted take their leaves to 
 sleep awhile. Unless by their votes the Catholics help them the revi-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 231 
 
 ving of them again is- in wiser men's hands than I suppose knows Coke MSS. 
 whether they shall end or draw on a parliament. All the world rejoice 
 in this Lord Keeper and bade his noble predecessor farewell without 
 tears. On Monday my friend Mallet goes to survey your land in 
 Leicestershire. 
 
 Never well two days together since I came down. 
 
 1625, November 26. Plymouth. Sir Ferdinand Gorges to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to the King's most excellent Majesty 
 at Court. 
 
 I have sent my cousin Cole to solicit the reparation of the decays of 
 his place. You have been an eye-witness in what shameful state we 
 stand in and in whom there is wisdom and judgment to second the 
 reformation of so behovefull a business. I dare not stir far from my 
 charge until I hear what is become of the Dunkirk or how the forces at 
 Lisbon are disposed of. As for the business of my ship you will take 
 to your consideration how many other employments there are to be had 
 of extraordinary profit for a ship of her force. As for the business ot 
 France, at the first their pretences were against Monsieur Soubise and 
 his brother, now they are willing to make peace with all save those of 
 Rochelle, when indeed their principal aim was for many years before to 
 cut off the root of the religion by defeating them of that hold. 
 
 1625, November 27. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 This last week the Dunkirks have taken two of our boats. Our 
 passage boats might be commanded to carry with them 10 or 12 
 muskets in their holds to guard their passengers. I pray speak with 
 the East India Company what I shall do with their prisoners for Mr. 
 Brooks cries out mainly to be tried, and the rest are close prisoners. 
 
 1625, November 28. Dover Castle. Sit John Hippisley to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 Mr. Rimes is here, and I know not how to get him safely over, the 
 times is so dangerous. 
 
 1625, November 29. London. Sir John Wolsten holme to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Fifteen Hamburgers are going to Spain by the Downs laden with 
 cordage, copper, and powder. The King's ships should traverse the 
 seas and not ride at anchor. 
 
 1625, November 29. Examinations taken by Nicholas Blake, 
 merchant, Mayor of Plymouth, and Thomas Ceely, merchant, Justices 
 of the Peace concerning pirates of Sallee, and sent from Plymouth 
 to the Lords. 
 
 Nicholas Godfrey captive in Sallee nearly two years, Edward Parry 
 captive in Sallee about six months, both of the Isle of Wight, escaped 
 by running aboard a Flemish man-of-war in Sallee Harbour. At that 
 time there were in Sallee Harbour 1,500 Christians, English, Scottish, 
 and Irish men, women, and children in captivity which were very 
 miserably used. And they of Sallee are 40 sail strong and upwards, 
 and continually set forth to the seas. 
 
 1625, November 30. J. Wolstenholme, Allen Apsley, \V. Burrell 
 Dan Fleming, Commissioners of the Navy, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The six merchant ships ready to set sail, the wind bein<r now fair 
 the mariners should be promised reward if they fight valiantly. The 
 ship for transporting the deer is ready. Victuals now to be provided.
 
 232 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1625, November 30. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, a Principal Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's 
 most honourable Privy Council at his house at Tottenham. 
 
 Reports readiness of the ships that are to go into the Downs. For 
 the victuals to be in a readiness at the Downs against his Grace'3 
 return thither. Delay caused by want of money. For the prize ships 
 that are unladen, I do send a note. The Bloom Pot at Dover is not 
 in our commission. 
 
 1625, November 30. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to his Grace the 
 Duke of Buckingham, Lord High Admiral of England, and in his 
 Grace's absence to Lord Conway and Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 My most great Lord, enclosed I send the first part of the good news. 
 It came to me by Mr. Hugh Bullock related by him in writing by way 
 of journal. He is come in command of a Dunkirker that deceitfully 
 names themselves of Callis (Calais) taken by the fleet within a league 
 of Cales (Cadiz) her lading is wines as sack and basterde, logwood, 
 wools, cochineal, tobacco, and other dyeing stuffs. The ship is not 
 able to be brought to London. If she be unladen here I doubt not but 
 to get money for her goods. Sithence I am appointed to come unto the 
 Downs in the Lion, if you repose it in trust to the care of Mr. Francis 
 Trelawney, Mr. Thomas Glanvill, and Mr. Ralph Bird, let me suffer in 
 your favour and my fortunes if they behave not themselves honestly. 
 
 1625, November 30. " Mr. Hugh Bullock, his relation, captain of the 
 White Hart." 
 A journal from 8th to 29th October of the expedition to Cadiz. 
 
 1625, November 30. Newark. Fi*ancis, Lord Deincort, to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Secretary to His Majesty, and one of His Majesty's most 
 honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Mr. Secretary, I received your letter wherein I perceive you are 
 willing to pleasure me in some other thing, and now there is an occasion 
 offered. For as we hear the coronation is to be about Candlemas, at 
 which time there are to be elected certain knights of the Bath, amongst 
 which it is reported my son is like to be one if you stand not my 
 honourable friend and procure him to be spared, for these four caxises. 
 The first is that if I die the King will lose his wardship ; the next is I 
 am far indebted ; the third is I have too many suits, and the last is my 
 father is living. I have 10 children to provide for. Thus leaving the 
 premisses to your noble consideration I rest at your service. 
 
 1625, November . Warwick. Foulke Grevyl, Lord Brooke, tc 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty at his house 
 Tottenham. 
 
 It hath been bruited abroad in Wales that Baronet Harris shall be 
 Chief Justice there. He is very distasteful to that principality and as 
 like to help to ruin that court as any man I know. Beseech my Lord 
 Keeper to think of some fitter man for that eminent place of justice. 
 My Lord President should take care of this business for his own ease 
 and good of the country, he hath been told of the condition of this 
 man. 
 
 1625, November . William Aufield to Sir John Coke, Secre- 
 tary to the King's Majesty and one of his Right Honourable Privy 
 Council, at his house in Tottenham High Cross. 
 
 You liked not the course I took to make myself known to you. May 
 it please your Honour to give me leave to satisfy you concerning my aim
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 233 
 
 and the means that I used to reach to it. I endeavoured to be such as coke MSS. 
 
 I desired by reading history and observing such passages as I there 
 
 found, I have in some measure attained to the French and labour now 
 
 in the Italian. The liberty which I shall lose in being another man's 
 
 1 shall think repaid in the credit belonging to such service as that is ; 
 
 your Honour having the reputation not only of a wise, but a religious 
 
 meek-spirited gentleman, which three joined together make up such a 
 
 perfection as whosoever is owner of it seldom or never falleth from that 
 
 honour which he hath once obtained. I hear my Lord of Holland goeth 
 
 over into Holland with my Lord Duke. I humbly desire you to entreat 
 
 him that I may attend him in this journey. 
 
 1625, November . Fulham. Sir Thomas Button to the Commis- 
 sioners of His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 The Antelope has been victualled from hand to mouth and not 
 able for any service to put to sea for 8 years. I have suffered so much 
 by it in my own fortune that I am utterly undone. The fort of Castle 
 Park (Kinsale), the fort of greatest consequence for defence and offence 
 in all the kingdom, was put into my hand the first year of Lord Grandi- 
 son's government as Deputy. I was ordered to repair it and I should 
 be repaid. The sum came to above 330/. and I have been driven ever 
 since to pay the lieutenant and soldiers myself. The six pieces that are 
 there lie all on the ground. Of the ships being so unsettled for their 
 victualling to my Lord of Suffolk and my Lord of Middlesex, being the 
 Treasurers in their several times, I have often complained, as to the 
 Deputy and State of Ireland for the fort ; but never could I find redress. 
 And what encouragements those heavy neglects might give me, who 
 spent my time, hazarded my life, and spent my fortune, and was to 
 answer all with my reputation as now it lies in question, I leave it to 
 to your wisdoms to judge. I beseech you for God's cause, the King's 
 honour, and the safety of that country, that you will take this business 
 to heart and see it rectified. 
 
 1625, December 1. Warwick Casrle. Foulke Grevyl, Lord Brooke, 
 to Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary unto His Majesty. 
 
 Sir, According to the promise I made you, my friend Mallet went on 
 Monday last about your business and returned here upon Thursday. 
 The particular account I refer to his own letter, only the manor is entire 
 and within a day's journey of me and my posterity. Some say the King 
 will keep his Christmas at Hampton Court, some at Westminster. Of 
 the Lord Duke's tempestuous passage, his safe landing at the Brill, and 
 ins magnificent reception at the Hague we have news, but none of his 
 return nor whether tirst into France or no. All things familiar to you 
 are news here. Remembering that beggars must not be choosers, I 
 abruptly take my leave and remain your loving old friend. 
 
 1625, December 2. Nicholas Blake, Mayor of Plymouth and his 
 brethren to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Asking the Lords of the Council and also Sir J. Coke, that the sick 
 men of the fleet be not brought into their town, but be entertained in 
 the country by the Deputy Lieutenants of Devon and Cornwall. 
 
 1625, December 2. London. Sir John Wolstenholme, a Commis- 
 sioner of the Navy, to Sir John Coke, one of His Majesties principal 
 Secretaries of State. 
 
 Ships arrived in the Thames from the Sound Island ; two of the 
 masters inform me there are 5 ships come to Elsinore bound for Spain ; 
 they tarry for more ships and would go for Spain about Scotland and 
 Ireland. I cannot believe they will go that way. The King of
 
 234 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 L0K * ' Denmark hath taken out of one of our merchants ships 80 barrels of 
 
 powder, and his officers will make stay of all powder that shall be 
 shipped to pass by Elsinore without especial licence from the King of 
 England. 1 make no question but this proceedeth upon some former 
 request of His Majesty . You may be pleased, therefore, to inform 
 yourself whether the like directions he not given for the stay of all 
 copper, cordage, mast, tar, or any other sea provisions, arms, and 
 victual?, and for avoiding of the clamour from all merchants of foreign 
 nations, it were convenient to take the same course that Queen Elizabeth 
 did to make a public declaration for confiscation of materials for shipping 
 that shall go for Spain. Confiscation of the shipping will be a great 
 terror to any that shall dare to carry them. And the King of Sweden 
 did the like. The King of Denmark had 7 ships of war lying in the 
 river of Hamburg. If the river of Elbe and the Sound were well 
 guarded the King of Spain could not be furnished with any sea provision 
 for his Navy and so be disabled to set forth any fleet to sea. I was 
 never more careful of any service than the sending of those six ships of 
 war into the Downs, which but this day set sail from Blackball. If it 
 please you, therefore, to give instructions to the captains to look after 
 those Hamburg ships and ships of the Sound if they come that way, and 
 to traverse the seas continually between Dover and Calais, for certainly 
 they will pass in the night. 
 
 1625, December 2. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley, Lieutenant of 
 the Tower of London, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of 
 State, and one of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council at his 
 house at Tottenham or at Court. 
 
 About one o'cloek this day all the 6 ships are fallen down, I hope as 
 low as Gravesend. Mr. Burrell this morning was labouring, but not 
 one captain aboard, they mean to overtake their ships tomorrow. We 
 have made a warrant for two barges to be at Ratcliffe Cross in the 
 morning and directed a privy search to the constables of 6 of these 
 hamlets, each constable one of the captains, and they are to appre- 
 hend all such of their ships companies as they find and impress as many 
 other sailors besides as they think suitable, and immediately put them 
 aboard the barges and follow their ships. 
 
 1625, December 6. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 For the Swiftsure that is at Falmouth, I have prayed Sir Samuel 
 Argall to press what those parts can afford, for this country cries out 
 and thinks ill of me. For the 6 or 8 ships returned, freshmen must 
 be taken up, to which end lest I give myself for a parliament sacrifice, 
 or to the malice of my enemies, T pray send me a commission that may 
 be my defence. The William of London is arrived at Dartmouth, 
 and I now desire to know what your honour will direct to be done with 
 those provisions she hath aboard. For the horses it is intended by Sir 
 William St. Leger and the rest of the Commissioners to sell them, I 
 purpose to send yours, if they dispose of the rest, to London. The Lord 
 Cromwell on the 17th came from Kinsale, reports Sir John Chudleigh 
 recovered, Sir Beverley Newcombe landed sick in Ireland. The letters 
 from the sea now brought by Captain Polkinghorne, to whom was com- 
 mitted one ensign pennant, for some offence : my Lord Marshal hath 
 reported it to my Lord Conway. 
 
 1625, December 6. Sir John Coke to Lord Brooke, Warwick Castle. 
 
 (Draft.) Thanks for the pains Mr. Mallet by your appointment and 
 
 permission hath taken in his view at Baggrave. The situation I assure
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 235 
 
 your Lordship is one motive unto me to deal with it. The price will not Coze MSS. 
 
 be less than 8,000/. which is above 200/. more than he esteemeth it worth. 
 
 They of the fleet landed at Cadiz, took a fort and embarked again, and thence 
 
 took the route for Lisbon with a purpose to lie at sea to meet with the 
 
 plate fleet. This news I carried to His Majesty to Theobalds, where 
 
 I found him hunting in the park, and coming very opportunely to the 
 
 fall of a hind His Majesty was pleased to bestow her upon me> For 
 
 the Lord Vaux I was present at his convention before His Majesty at 
 
 the Council Board, where he had some prepared friends, his own 
 
 carriage was not suitable to the opinion conceived of him. The 
 
 resolution was for his convention in the Star Chamber. For Sir 
 
 Thomas Jarrett he continueth in the Tower. My Lord Duke hath 
 
 the news of the happy birth of his hopeful son and heir sent to him. 
 
 Tlje King makes no question of his (the Duke's) first coming here 
 
 before he go for France, and we hope his journey thither will be 
 
 demurred upon. For the present service against the Dunkirkers the 
 
 Lord Admiral carried with him near 20 sail of ships. The ceasing 
 
 of the sickness at London will I hope draw your Lordship again into 
 
 these parts. 
 
 1625, December 6. The Fort of Pendennis, Captain John Bonython, 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 On 19th November the (French) Vice-Admiral set sail out of this 
 harbour of Falmouth towards Fowey to attempt something on them at 
 Fowey, to prevent which I took horse and rid towards Fowey to 
 acquaint the Deputy Lieutenant Baronet Mohun and Sir Bernard 
 Grenfield, but he returned to Falmouth. The next day being Sunday 
 he sent two of his ships up a narrow creek towards the town of Penryn 
 where the St. John lay. The captain of the St. John with his company 
 were all ready in warlike manner. The next morning the St. John 
 hauled up close to the town quay where of necessity she must be safe 
 from carrying away. The day following Monsieur de Mantee came 
 ashore where meeting he said he was sorry that I did incline myself 
 so much unto them. I told him that I did believe that His Majesty 
 was in way of mediation with His Majesty of France for her delivery 
 (the St. John). The deputy lieutenants of this county sent a gentleman 
 unto Monsieur de Mantee, who complained of the wrongs and unkind- 
 ness of this place, that he would do himself reason, and if again it were 
 offered he swore he would " les tailler en pieces." Now the wrongs that 
 he spoke of are that some of Monsieur Soubises men had given ill 
 language to Captain Block, saying, O thou Papist I would the Devil 
 had thee. I spake unto the mayor of the town that he should do well 
 not to suffer any private man of either party to wear any arms in the 
 town. Monsieur de Mantee reported that I was the greatest enemy 
 that he had, he despatched away Sir John Killigrew unto the court 
 with letters. For my part I do assure your honour I have sought 
 by all means to give the Vice- Admiral all the content I might by 
 inviting him unto the sports of this country, as hunting and coursing 
 and divers particular invitations to the fort. My courtesies have been 
 altogether refused. The 26th November here arrived directions from 
 the Prince of Orange to call home all such men-of-war of his as they 
 found in Falmouth and this coast. They determined to leave two of 
 their ships. The commander of the Dutch, Captain Quaste, went to 
 sea with seven of the States ships. Monsieur de Mantee hath here 
 but four ships. The St. John with one ship more is all the ships that 
 Monsieur Soubise hath here. I hope to seud this letter by my Lord of 
 Essex who arrived here last night.
 
 236 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1525, December 6. His Majesty's fort by Plymouth. Sir Ferdinand 
 Gorges to Sir John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary to his most 
 
 excellent Majesty at the Court. [The following precis endorsed by 
 Sir John Coke.] 
 
 Frencli Vice-Admiral with ten Hollanders resolved to assail Soubise's 
 ships in Fowey. Hollanders promise to assist so as the Vice-Admiral 
 will take it upon him. The country ready to succour Soubise. The 
 Dutch commanded home upon pain of death. Their captains confess 
 themselves misled. Yet questionable whether the Dutch return to 
 Rochelle. 
 
 1625, December 7. " Captain Downing's remembrances." (Not 
 signed.) 
 
 The Dunkirkers, bearing themselves bold of their ships sailing, must 
 be prevented by making ships like theirs in all respects without 
 galleries or painting or any overcharging weight, these ships not to 
 exceed 300 or 250 tons with 20 or 25 pieces. And for the better 
 keeping of those ships clean it will be necessary to lay ways and a 
 graving place in Dover and Falmouth. In Portsmouth there is one 
 already. Then may these ships once a month, or two months at the 
 most, go into one of these harbours and wash and tallow, and in three 
 days be at sea again. To destroy the harbour of the Splinter at 
 Dunkirk, I hold it feasible by sinking of old rotten ships in the roads. 
 The Drumbler may be either fired or overrun by any good ship, and 
 for the wooden fort and the mole some old hulk being fitted with 
 combustible matter and set on fire and turned upon them will so trouble 
 and endanger them that you may sink your works where you list, 
 and at the narrow passage in the east end of the Splinter. I am 
 confident if that unnatural storm had not been which spoiled our and 
 the Holland ships, we should have fired or spoiled the greatest part of 
 the Dunkirk ships. But God saw it not good to have it done at that 
 time. 
 
 1625, December 7. I. Haughton to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Near relation and friendship hath long been between houses of 
 Trusley and Haughton. Sir Edward Osborne is pricked sheriff for 
 Nottingham, but is beyond sea. Another being to be chosen, spare 
 Sir Hardolph Wastness who hath not above 500/. or 600/. per annum, 
 and a great charge of nine or ten children, most of them daughters 
 marriageable. Please to recommend Sir Gervoise Clifton thereunto. 
 I unfeignedly wish you a prosperous navigation which is more per- 
 adventure than every one can afford you. 
 
 1625, December 9. Tottenham. Sir John Coke to Lord Brooke at 
 Warwick Castle. 
 
 Meeting my Lord President at Hampton Court, and understanding 
 by him the news of Sir Thomas Chamberlain's death, I was bold 
 enough to advise him to be careful in his new choice. His Lordship 
 assured me it was his greatest business, and that it should not be 
 bestowed for money. The Lord Keeper cast him upon Mr. Serjeant 
 Bridgman, but the resolution is deferred till my Lord Duke's return, 
 which is expected every day. He hath sent six ships to pursue so 
 many of the Dunkirkers which are stolen out to intercept our ships that 
 are expected with wines from Bordeaux. By taking of the Flanders 
 prizes which are now at London we have caused a great number of 
 their merchants in Antwerp, Ghent, Yssel, Ypres, Cortrecht, and other 
 places, to bankrupt, broken their trade by Cales (Cadiz ?), and cut off 
 the materials to set their people on work, which maketh them ready to 
 starve and will cause mutiny. Proclamations for all the Lords and
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 237 
 
 servants of the King to repair to London. The Exchequer is already Coke MSS. 
 there. 
 
 1625, December 9. Plymouth. Nicholas Blake, mayor, to Sir John 
 Coke, knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries. 
 
 A certain Spaniard or Portuguese lately arrived in the harbour. Also 
 a great many poor soldiers much distressed and others which we daily 
 expect. 
 
 1625, December 9. Billesley. Sir Robert Lee to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Treaty of marriage between Sir R. Lee's son and Lord Conway's 
 daughter. Sir J. Coke to make proposals ; 16 years' purchase the 
 least good land will be bought for. 
 
 Draft endorsed of Sir J. Coke's answer. Lord Conway finds this 
 difficulty an equal bar on both sides, i.e., in case of death of one parent 
 the other will lose the money advanced or settled. If not convenient 
 to proceed on other terms his lordship will continue the good corres- 
 pondence that hath been ever betwixt you, and take care that the parties 
 would have no notice of the intention laid asleep. 
 
 1625, December 10. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley to Sir John 
 Coke, knight, a principal Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's 
 most honourable Privy Council, at his house at Tottenham. 
 
 Last night the Lady Carleton, stopping here at the Tower Wharf, 
 sent unto me to borrow a coach. She told me upon Thursday last 
 the Garland, wherein his Grace then was, cast anchor near Margate, 
 but could not come ashore by reason of foul weather. I protest to 
 God, paying ready money, I could not get beef and pork this week at 
 the price I bought before by 20 in the hundred. The Lord Treasurer 
 paying no money for the intended provisions, and, for the hopes of money 
 of the prize goods, Burlamachi being to receive the first 25,000/., I see no 
 hopes to make provisions until the time of the year be past, for all 
 England cannot yield the proportion of victuals you have propounded. 
 
 1625, December 11. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I can do nothing with the goods at Dover till you send me down 
 James Hugisson. 
 
 1625, December 12. Warwick. Foulke Grevyl, Lord Brooko, to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 A copy of his journal that brought home the prize was sent me with 
 news of the Duke's arrival at the Court, which I, as one that have long 
 depended upon him. take comfort in. Commend my humble service to 
 him. A good angel in his ear is much better welcome than a sacrifice 
 of many times. The weather weighs my indisposition of body, and 
 little for me to do amongst you makes me take leisure in coming up. 
 Let me live in yourself and whereelse you think fit ; farewell honest and 
 honourable Secretary, love and command your old friend. 
 
 1625, December 13. Proportion for ships of war agreed upon by the 
 master shipwrights. 
 
 1625, December 14. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 If I have but letters of marque to set out freely out of the ports I 
 should make my Lord, a great profit. 
 
 1625, December 14. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I send certain letters and notes found aboard the St. Andrew, of 
 Amsterdam. I will, upon knowledge of your being at Tottenham,
 
 238 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Com MSS. to-morrow wait upon you and give you an account of the letter I re- 
 ceived yesterday by Captain Pennington, and remember your honour of 
 the remains of the victuals that ought to come from the fleet. 
 
 1625, December 16. Sir W. Russell to Sir John Coke, Knight, one 
 of the principal Secretaries of State to His Majesty. 
 
 According to your directions I proceeded from Dover, and upon con- 
 ference with the Judge of the Admiralty at Canterbury perceived that 
 it would take long time before he could proceed to condemnation, for 
 that he was to give time for all lawful claimers. There is goods of 
 divers kinds that require opening and measuring, and of that nature 
 that they of Dover hardly know how to value. An impossibility to 
 find merchants there that are able to buy it. So much money will not 
 be made of these goods there as at London by 15 or 20 in the hundred. 
 The goods lie most in shipping on the water, and if they should be 
 landed there is not convenient warehouse room to put them in. 
 
 1625, December 17. Kinsale. Sir Thomas Love to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Secretary to the King's most excellent Majesty. 
 
 Relates proceedings of fleet at Cadiz, and that they lay 20 days off 
 the South Cape to look for the West India fleet. Leaks and want of 
 victuals and water. The Council resolve to go homeward. Fore-yard 
 spent in four pieces, fore-mast cracked in two places ; most of our sails 
 split, ropes and tackling bad ; many of our men dead, and most of the 
 rest sick, we were obliged to sink a ketch to have the men for the 
 " Convertine " ; we have arrived in this port. My Lord President of 
 Munster hath promised a supply of men to bring away the ship. We 
 hear the " Rainbow," " Bonaventura," " Dreadnought," and " St. An- 
 drew," are put into other harbours in this country with some 20 othei 
 ships. There is nothing but clamouring for money and expenses and 
 carelessness in stores on all sides. 
 
 1625, December 17. Sir George Chudleigh to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries. 
 
 My particular and thankful acknowledgment of your favourable re- 
 membrance of me to His Majesty when I was in danger of the Sheriff- 
 wick, an office which I had thought envy itself would not have cast 
 upon me, my mother yet living and enjoying the better part of my 
 means. Of all the fleet it is most wondered at that there is no news of 
 my brother. Reports that the leak of his ship increasing they turned 
 into Ireland, and there are that affirm that he is dead ; it is certain that 
 he was extreme sick. If he be gone I shall be earnest to supply his 
 defect in any employment either at home or abroad. 
 
 1625, December 18. Aboard H.M. ship the Entrance in the 
 Downs. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the 
 principal Secretaries of State, and of His Majesty's Most Honourable 
 Privy Council. 
 
 I have stayed the Griffin of Hamburg bound for Lisbon. 7 more 
 are past by about 8 days since. The master confidently affirmeth upon 
 his life that from that port there went but three ships laden with copper 
 and munition for Spain, which are gone about by the North parts. 
 There came in this day two ships from Zante, which at Malaga were 
 shot at. Otf the Straits they met with nine sail of the Hollands men- 
 of-war that went with our fleet. Of our fleet they heard nothing. 
 Having but one ship with me that was serviceable I took the merchants 
 ships of Captain Pennington's fleet into the Downs with me. I know 
 not what cause there may be to employ them.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 239 
 
 1625, December 19. Kinsale. Sir Thomas Love to Sir John Coke MSS. 
 Coke, Knight, Secretary to the King's Most Excellent Majesty. 
 
 The Reformation is come into this harbour on Tuesday last ; they spent 
 their foremast, mainmast, and lost most of their sails, ropes, and other 
 provisions. She can be in no way fit or able to come from hence 
 before they be supplied with ropes, sails, and masts out of England. 
 We conceive it to be the best course to take such and so many of their 
 men as wc want to manage this ship and to come with all speed we 
 can for England, and to leave our sick and weak men to be taken in by 
 them after their recovery. My Lord Marshal being gone to Cork I 
 thought it my duty to intimate thus much to your Honour. My Lord 
 Conway may be let know that Sir Edwai'd Conway was in the 
 Reformation and went out of her into the Convertine. 
 
 1625, December 20. Tottenham. Sir J. Coke to Lord Brooke at 
 Warwick Castle. (Copy.) 
 
 I will encourage Mr. Attorney to do you ready service. He hath 
 been sick. Soon after the twelve days the King will come to London 
 as well in regard of the Coronation as the Parliament. The Lord Duke 
 is at Burley. The Lord Keeper is well affected to Serjeant Bridgman 
 as judge for the Marches. Sir Henry Mildmay was sent by the Lord 
 Duke from Holland towards France, but is sick at Dover. The French 
 bend their chief strength against Rochelle and the Protestants without 
 hope of qualification. The plate fleet may be met at sea in May next. 
 I wish our Parliament or our officers of the finances may enable us lo 
 be ready by that time. 
 
 1625, December 20. Doctor's Commons. Doctor F. Ryves, King's 
 Advocate, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His 
 Majesty. 
 
 I have diligently considered of the case concerning the goods of 
 Humphrey Slaney taken in the Blue Dove and the Bloom Pott 
 and do find both the statute of the land and the grounds of the civil 
 law to be such as I have no hope ever to make any title to them either 
 for the King or for my Lord Admiral. It is manifest that goods 
 robbed upon the sea, if they shall be afterward brought into England 
 ought to be restored, 23 Edw. 3. 
 
 1625, December 22. Ship Ann Royal at Kinsale in Ireland. 
 William Cooke to Sir John Coke, Knight, Secretary of State to His 
 Majesty of Great Britain and Ireland. 
 
 These are to impart unto you some part of our proceedings in this 
 unfortunate service. Full journal of expedition to Calls (Cadiz) under 
 my Lord of Essex and my Lord Marshal, between 8th October and 
 10th December. 
 
 1625, December 22. . Bartholomew Daggett to Sir John Coke, 
 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's Secretaries of State at Court or elsewhere. 
 
 Having with Mr. Boswell taken some pains in the business, I do find 
 and assure you that this cipher is locked up in as much art sind cunning 
 as can well be devised, especially where there is so little matter ami 
 words to work upon. Notwithstanding it is feasible I see because I 
 perceive it is composed in a series and method. My request unto you 
 is that if you have any other Spanish letters of the Cardinal de la 
 Cueva or other person of that State to Sig. Bruneau that you would 
 spare them unto me. By one word found I dare boldly promise the whole 
 discovery. 
 
 1625, December 22. His Majesty's Fort by Plymouth. Sir Ferdi- 
 nand Gorges to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His
 
 240 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Most Excellent Majesty at the Court. For His Majesty's special 
 service. 
 
 Relates desire of the Captains of Monsieur de Soubise to fetch away 
 the St. John out of Falmouth, and to send 4 or 5 ships to protect her 
 from Monsieur de Mantey. Hopes that as the Dutch ships under M. 
 de Mantey have been ordered by the Prince of Orange and the States 
 to rendezvous before Dunkirk, M. de Mantey will also leave. 
 
 1625, December 22. His Majesty's Fort of Pendennis. Captain 
 John Bonython to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary unto 
 His Majesty at Court. 
 
 Prizes taken by him and delivered to Sir James Bagg a Dutch 
 pirate, 2 Hamburgers from Portugal richly laden, 1 Hamburger 
 outward bound. Has answered to Lord Conway complaint of Sir 
 Robert [John] Killigrew for the French Ambassador. A gentleman 
 from Monsieur Sobeeza (Soubise) shewed me he had order to bring 
 the St. John to Plymouth, but she got up to the town quay and cannot 
 be moved till the next, spring tide. Monsieur de Mantee having gotten 
 three French bottoms unto his two men-of-war departed hence with all 
 his company the 19th for France. I desire it may be remembered unto 
 his Grace my Lord High Admiral, that a year and a half since I took 
 a Dutch pirate, and now within these two months two Hamburgers, 
 and within these six days of a Hamburger chaced by 6 or 7 States' 
 men-of-war I have made stay, and all these vessels I delivered over to 
 Sir James Bagg, Vice- Admiral. 
 
 1625, December 23. Aboard the Entrance in the Downs. Sir 
 Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Principal 
 Secretaries of State and of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy 
 Council. 
 
 I stayed a ship of Lubeck laden with deal and claboord for St. Lucar 
 and another Lubecker laden with deal and spars, as he sayeth bound for 
 Rochelle, but the town is straitly blocked up. The Vanguard rideth 
 with some 8 more ships at St. Michael's Island. The inhabitants have 
 suffered much cruelty. My Lord Duke gave me warrant to have the 
 St. Peter left at Dover Pier into the Downs, but I find Sir John 
 Hippisley backward in anything wherein I crave his assistance. 
 
 1625, December 24. Chatham. Peter Buck to Sir John Coke. 
 Excuse for using a Deputy three months. 
 
 1625, December 24. Chatham. Henry Goddarde to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Being questioned for the backwardness of the works of the Bepulse 
 and the Wastspite, explains his position. The present government 
 for command of men, and disposing of all the business of the Navy both 
 in dry dock and on float is transferred from me, and in the primary exe- 
 cution thereof is put upon the master shipwrights. I am admonished 
 by Mr. Burrell if I will have any reputation left for me in my place to 
 see that I give the master shipwrights the right of their places. Enume- 
 rates many defects in the service. 
 
 1625, December 26. Edmonton. -- Thomas Alured to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 My cousin Latymer seeks the place in the King's Bench. I wish I 
 had been so happy to have waited on your honour on Saturday at 
 dinner when the Duke called upon you. Let me put you in mind of 
 making me a burgess.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 241 
 
 1625, December 27. His Majesty's Fort by Plymouth. Sir Coke MSS. 
 Ferdinand Gorges to Sir John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary to 
 His most Excellent Majesty at Court. 
 
 The late master of my ship, Andrew Batten, for his mutiny and dis- 
 honesty to me when I was aboard, I put out of her. I have appointed 
 the captain and my boatswain Cole to repair to you about it. In France 
 I did acknowledge to have received all that was due nnto me for six 
 months' entertainment for ship victuals and my men's wages, and gave 
 my discharge to Burlamachi, and I hope he hath accordingly performed 
 it, The state of all things here you will understand by our General's 
 letters. There is a general discomfort conceived upon the evil carriage 
 of this employment, but where the fault is you best know, and I hope 
 will be a warning for hereafter, and teach us to rest assured that 
 without fit instruments it is a hard matter to perform any excellent 
 work. 
 
 1625, December 28. Copy signed by (Sir) William Becher. At 
 Hampton Court. Present, the King's Majesty, 17 English Lords of the 
 Council, the Lord Chancellor of Scotland, Earl of Mar, Earl of Melrose. 
 Ordered by his Majesty with the advice of his Council that the ship of 
 Newhaven (Havre de Grace), called the St. Peter, and all such other 
 goods of the other prizes as shall be found to appertain to his own sub- 
 jects or the subjects of his good brother, the French king, or of the 
 States of the United Provinces, or of any other Princes or States, in 
 friendship or alliance with his Majesty, and are not fraudulently coloured 
 under their names, and really do belong to the subjects of the King of 
 Spain, shall be delivered to such as do reclaim the same. 
 
 1625, December 31. Aboard the Entrance in the Downs. Sir 
 Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Principal 
 Secretaries of State, and one of His Majesty's most honourable Privy 
 Council. 
 
 The Hamburger and two Lubeckers sent up. The Lubeckers carry 
 copper. A fly boat taken, laden with deals, claboord, wax, and lead 
 for Lisbon. A French ship bound for Nantes reported that all our 
 ships are at Rochelle with others, Dutch and French ; that he heard of 
 no war betwixt the King and them. 
 
 (1625, December ). Notes, in the writing of Sir J. Coke, on 
 some causes of the failure of the expedition to Cales (Cadiz). 
 
 At the first coming of the fleet to Cape Segres, which is about 50 
 leagues from Cadiz, they lay a hull with no sail abroad in sight of land 
 a whole day in council, so as they gave warning to the land of their 
 being there, and they saw one beacon set on fire. This was the cause, 
 together with foul weather, that they came not to Cadiz till 2 o'clock in 
 the afternoon. 
 
 They went into Cadiz with as good wind and as fair weather as they 
 could wish, and might have landed where they list. 
 
 Before they came into the harbour under their topsails they discovered 
 the ships almost as soon as they saw the town. But no order being 
 given for any to set upon the ships, nor any direction given for the 
 manner, when the Spaniards cut their cables and fled up the river, our 
 fleet came to anchor to know what to do. 
 
 The Earl of Essex was elose with the ships, and yet came to anchor, 
 and the Lord Marshal fell off from the place where they should 
 have landed by the order of the Council at St. Marie Port, and came 
 also to anchor. 
 
 IT '24963 O
 
 242 HISTOEIOAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokk MSS. They never thought upon the ships till 4 days after when it was too 
 
 late. Only the Lord Marshal once moving something to that end, Sir 
 
 Thomas Love answered, Let them alone, they are ours. 
 
 1625, December . Ash. John Drake to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 cue of His Majesty's Secretaries of State. For His Majesty's service. 
 
 The meetings at Mr. ArundelFs to be justified upon oath. Sithence 
 those lettei'S of disarming came they are very blank and do not frequent 
 together as formerly they have done. Little or no arms found. Notice 
 taken by reason of the delivery of the Lords letters some long after 
 other, so as the recusants sent notice one to the other. My Lord of 
 Purbeck being Lord Lieutenant of Somerset and Cornwall sent his 
 letters to his deputies privately from Salisbury so as those shires were 
 disarmed almost a month before our letters came, and Dorsetshire 
 where most recusants are hath not been dealt withal. There might be 
 command from His Majesty for executing that law for the confining of 
 the recusants. Letters to and fro to be intercepted ; I have laid a plot 
 for the taking of them. Shall I send them up or look in them being 
 directed to such as are held dangerous ? I fear great labouring for 
 places already by some that wish not my Lord Duke best. I should be 
 glad to hear of his return. If the Parliament be not shortly I will 
 wait on your honour privately after the holidays. 
 
 1 625, . Notes by Sir J. Coke indorsed " For Newcastle Ships." 
 
 Notes of provision made and needed. 
 
 1625. Eough draft by Sir J. Coke of his translation of the Latin 
 letter of the Spanish Ambassadors to King James, intituled by him 
 " A Spanish Information against the Duke of Buckingham." [The 
 end wanting.] 
 
 1625. John Lamb's petition to the King. The petitioner's death 
 endeavoured and a conjuror suborned. Asks permission to discover 
 the same to his Majesty's own person, and that an information by the 
 Attorney-General may be exhibited in the Star Chamber. 
 
 1625 (not dated). Mary Fulwood to John Coke at the Court or 
 elsewhere. 
 
 Dear and much respected Brother, The great blessings it hath 
 pleased God to bestow upon you is no small comfort to my heart after 
 much grief. I beseech the Lord to continue and increase His mercies 
 towards you. I am sorry to be troublesome to you to move you in any 
 suit, but it is for so dear a friend and for one whom I know so well as I 
 cannot choose but presume upon your patience. The matter is this. My 
 brother, Sir George Fulwood his second son, being a steady and civil 
 young man, hath travelled, and since of use a court and reasonable 
 means left by his father, is very desirous to serve you either in your 
 chamber or any place in ordinary you shall think him fit for. I beseech 
 you entertain him at my request. I hope by God's assistance he will 
 be very careful and diligent to give you good content by his industrious 
 service. 
 
 1625. Indorsed by Sir John Coke : " Captain Levet's relation." 
 
 The passages of such things as I conceived worth taking notice of. 
 
 Account of the expedition to Cadiz between leaving Plymouth the 
 5th day of October and arriving at Dartmouth the 20th day of 
 December. 
 
 Now upon this evil success . . . neither will the state of England be 
 free from censure for I have heard them taxed for these things follow-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 243 
 
 1. For delaying so much time before they sent away the fleet. 
 
 2. For sending it away in winter when the most of the ships were 
 
 not able to carry forth their ordnance either by way of offence 
 or defence. 
 
 3. The sending away the fleet with so little provision. 
 
 4. For not giving the captains their orders or commissions before 
 
 they went to sea by which much confusion might have been 
 prevented. 
 
 5. For sending unexperienced soldiers such as was neither willing 
 
 nor able to do service, but, on the contrary, mutinous. 
 But for my own part I am not of their minds, because I am able 
 myself sufficiently to answer these objections as that 
 
 (Five answers to the five objections.) 
 
 Now if it be demanded of me what the cause of this ill success might 
 be, I must answer, in the first place, that I fear every one of us sought 
 our own ends more than God's glory, and therefore it was just with 
 God to deny us good success. Secondly, the want of, I dare not say 
 what, and if this will not give satisfaction if you please to read for- 
 wards you shall see what defects or failings I took notice of in this 
 action 
 
 Such things as I conceive was failing or not well carried in this 
 unfortunate action. 
 
 What course I conceive is best to weaken the Spaniard and most 
 profitable to our nation 
 
 1. The sending to sea without commissions or orders as well for the 
 
 places of rendezvous (in case we should be parted by foul 
 weather) as also for a certain course of sailing. 
 
 Though some captains had them delivered three or four days after 
 yet others wanted them until they came at the Southern Cape, and many 
 never had them at all. 
 
 But the want of them as it fell out did no great hurt for when we 
 came at Cadiz we missed not above six of our fleet. 
 
 But the want of an orderly course in sailing caused some to lose 
 their galleries, heads and bowsprits, and others had their sails torn from 
 their yard-. 
 
 And it was God's mercy that not more than three or four was cast 
 away, for the confusion was such that some had their starboard when 
 other had their larboard tacks aboard, so that in the night you should 
 have two ships come along one against the other, and where there was 
 not good watch kept there was much hurt done. 
 
 2. When we came upon the coast of Spain, and had made the 
 
 Southern Cape, we lay lingering too long close aboard the shore 
 by which means we were discovered, as appeared by the lights 
 that night all along the shore which was the cause of their 
 sending forces to Cadiz. 
 
 3. When we might have been before Cadiz by 8 or 9 o'clock in the 
 
 morning, and so have had the day before us, we came in a little 
 before sun setting. 
 
 4. When we were come in and that my Lord of Essex had beguu 
 
 bravely with the ships that were there, and drove thera up th^ 
 river, that he was not seconded, and so the ships which might 
 easily have been token or spoiled blocked themselves up so as 
 afterwards when Ave would we could not come at thera. 
 
 Q 2
 
 244 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 5. In that we did not at our first coming every ship let fly a 
 
 broadside into the town, and there presently have landed but 
 half our soldiers, which might have done without any great 
 danger for the wind was so that it would have drove the smoke 
 into the town that they could not have made a shot at us but 
 at random, and then whether we should have taken it or no, 
 judge, for it may easily be proved that there was not at that 
 time above 500 soldiers there nor 20 pieces of ordnance 
 mounted. 
 
 But we lay still all that night and saw them labour hard 
 until they had mounted their ordnance. 
 
 6. That no course was taken to block up the galleys in St. Mary 
 
 port which might have been done with six ships by which 
 neglect they did continually carry soldiers into the town and 
 fetch away the treasure, which I am persuaded did exceedingly 
 discourage the most of our men but especially such as could 
 before think of nothing but gold, silks, velvets, &c. 
 
 7. When our soldiers Avere landed and in their march towards the 
 
 bridge, meeting with at the least 70 butts of sack at the Duke of 
 Medina his house, that they did not make it good but spoiled 
 it which would have relieved the whole fleet many having 
 neither sweet beer nor water, and amongst them myself was one. 
 
 8. When the design was (after our coming from Cadiz) to lie at 
 
 sea about the Southern Cape to meet with the plate fleet that 
 there was then no wise or Avarlike course taken for there Ave 
 lay still in the daytime, and I think they had been mad if they 
 Avould have come near us, and in the night we set sail, so that if 
 we should hav T e met with any ships Ave could not have knoAvn 
 them from our own fleet by which means they might have been 
 gone before morning. 
 But if they had been experienced men-of-war then Avould they have 
 gone thus to work, viz. : the three Admirals to haA*e separated them- 
 selves with their squadrons and have agreed upon a certain course 
 of sailing as thus one squadron to have stood close by a Avind, the 
 next to have stood two points larger and the third two points larger 
 than he, and to have appointed their place of rendezvous, then might 
 they have met Avith ships if there had been any stirring, and if one 
 squadron could not have fetched them up they might have drove them 
 upon another and if all had missed it had been"^ 
 more than ill luck, also we should have known j 
 certainly how to have met again which we could ( i o, 
 
 not do as Ave carried the business for Ave were j * 
 
 parted the day of November and if we | 
 
 should have died for it we knew not Iioav to J 
 meet again, for if we had sailed close aboard the shore Ave could not 
 have got off again, and sure I am it Avould have been no good 
 harbouring in the enemy's country for 1, 2, 5, or 10 ships. 
 
 9. If Avhen Ave came from Cadiz we had had orders to go home Ave 
 
 might have been at home in 20 or 28 days, which if avc had 
 done there might have been many men's lives saved, much 
 victual, and more money, as the freight of ships, men's wages, 
 &c, and the ships ready to have gone forth again in a short 
 time if the King and State should have so thought fit. 
 
 (1625.) Indorsed: Gifts given at NeAv Years tide in the King's house 
 by a Secretary of State.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 245 
 
 New Year's gifts usually distributed in the house to the servants by 
 the Lord Viscount Conway, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries 
 of State. 
 
 Coke MSR 
 
 paid 1627 the sum of 18 8 0. Sffia tot 36 08 04. Besides 
 to the Pages men of the backstairs 10*. apiece. 
 
 1625. " Orders to be observed in assemblies of Council " (probably 
 furnished to Sir John Coke when he became a Privy Councillor). 
 
 Original orders 1 to 20. 
 
 Two new orders inserted as 16 and 17 in a different hand. 
 
 16. Care to be had of seeing orders put in execution by calling for 
 an account of them. 
 
 17. All noblemen and noblemen's children who are to pass the seas 
 are to have their licence for travel or passport under His Majesty's 
 signature. Others for persons of meaner quality granted by the Lords 
 are first to be signed by one of the principal Secretaries who is to speak 
 with the party who demands it, and take particular information of his 
 religion and condition. 
 
 1625. Prophetia Merline in Medbume Com. Leic. 
 
 " The Prophesie of Marvey or Marlin translated out of Latin into 
 English." This paper ends with the names (copied), David Grace, 
 Tobie Wright, William Graunt, Thomas Gee. 
 
 Anno Domini 1625, November and December. 
 Monies disbursed for Sir John. 
 
 Paid for a beaver hat and a band - 
 
 a pair of russet silk stockings 
 
 a pair of white worsted stockings 
 
 2 pairs of stockings for your daughters 
 
 ,, a pair of carded boot hose 
 
 a black embroidered girdle 
 
 ,, 4 pairs of socks - 
 
 a cap of velvet 
 
 Also disbursed since. 
 
 Paid for a dozen of silk points 
 
 a pair of Spanish leather hose 
 
 2 snaffles - 
 
 ,, 2 quire of paper - - 
 
 dressing and trimming of Sir John's 
 
 beaver - 
 
 a hat band - 
 
 a dozen of buttons 
 u yard and a half of ribbon 
 
 Paid for a pair of white slocking* for Sir John 
 half a dozen pair of bandstrings - 
 8 pieces of diaper lor napkins 
 a dozen of lon^ white buttons 
 
 
 
 s. 
 
 d. 
 
 2 
 
 07 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 18 
 
 
 
 
 
 04 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 05 
 
 
 
 
 
 11 
 
 
 
 
 
 04 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 02 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 06 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 18 
 
 s 
 
 
 
 02 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 04 
 
 
 
 
 
 00 
 
 10 
 
 
 
 00 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 02 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 02 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 00 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 00 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 13 
 
 10 
 
 
 
 04 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 02 
 
 6 
 
 4 
 
 00 
 
 
 
 
 
 00 
 
 o
 
 246 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 Paid for a pound of pin dust, with a dish and spoon 
 
 and 2 surcinges 
 ,, to Mr. Fullwood by your Honour's appoint- 
 ment - - - - - 
 for 8 yards of black embroidered lace 
 a pair of russet boots for Mr. John Coke 
 a pair of Spanish leather hose for Mr. 
 
 Secretary - - - - 04 6 
 
 13 05 
 
 
 
 s. 
 
 d. 
 
 
 
 02 
 
 
 
 
 
 01 
 
 6 
 
 5 
 
 00 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 02 
 
 
 
 
 
 07 
 
 6 
 
 Tailor's bills. 
 
 1625. To Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the King's most Honour- 
 able Privy Council and Secretary of the State to His Majesty. 
 
 The 26th of Decemb. 1625 for a fugar satin suit and hanging sleeves 
 to it. Imprimis canvas for straight linings. 
 
 Item, fine white baize to stiffen the bodice. 
 
 Item, bellypieces, stiffenings of buckram and powldanie. 
 
 Item, 2 yards ^ russet fustian to go under the skirt, and wearing 
 
 sleeves. 
 Item, 5 dozen of buttons for breast and collar and sleeves. 
 Item, 1 gross 8 dozen of large buttons for hanging sleeves and hose. 
 Item, 1 ounce \ loop lace for hanging sleeves and collar. 
 Item, 4 yards \ of homes[pun ?] fustian to line the hose for pockets. 
 Item, fine dutch baize to go on the outside of the hose. 
 Item, fine baize on the linings for warmth. 
 Item, fine buckram to border the hanging sleeves. 
 Item, Ribbon for the waist. 
 Item, 3 yards \ of Sd. Ribbon for the knees. 
 Item, 1 yard i of scarlet baize to line the doublet. 
 Item, silk to make up the suit. 
 Item, pinking and prinking in it. 
 Item, making the suit. 
 
 03 08 01 
 
 Item, 2 dozen of drum points | ]1 long. 
 
 Item, 1 embroidered girdle. 
 
 Item, 1 yard | of baize to keep the suit in - - 00 16 06 
 
 Sum total is four pounds four shillings seven 
 
 pence - 04 04 07 
 
 The 3rd of February 162. 
 
 Paid for 3 dozen and -\ of black embroidered lace at, 2s. 2d. per 
 
 yard. 
 Paid for 4 dozen of narrow embroidered lace, 1 1*-/. yard. 
 
 1 gross of black Paris buttons. 
 
 15 dozen of black satin buttons at 8d. 
 
 2 yards of black embroidered lace, broad. 
 1 black long button. 
 
 7 14 1
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 8 yards of black Fugard satin at 15*. 
 3 yards of black satin at 11*. 
 
 9 yards \ of French plush at 28*. 
 
 Paid for 2 ells and J of cambric. 
 Paid for 12 yards of lace. 
 
 Paid unto the tailor for making your silk grogrin gown, 
 and for silk and lace for the same gown 
 
 Paid for an ell of crimson sarcenet - 
 
 Paid unto the tailor for making of 3 baize coats (for 
 Elizabeth, Anne, and Dorothy) as the particulars in 
 the bill will appear - - - - - 
 
 Roc. from Mr. Secretary, 39/. 13*. 
 
 Indorsement by Sir J. Coke. 
 
 
 247 
 
 
 
 *. d. 
 
 7 
 
 13 
 
 15 
 
 7 4 
 
 12 
 
 16 
 
 28 3 4 
 
 30 08 4 
 
 1 14 
 11 
 
 5 
 
 37 14 2 
 
 1 15 G 
 
 39 09 8 
 
 " Delivered to my wife in money to buy my wrought satin suit and 
 other particulars of this bill, 39/. 13*." 
 
 Paid for 2 yards aud a half of loom work to make Bess and Anna 
 
 cuffs and falls. 
 Paid for 8 yards of calico. 
 
 Paid for a yard and half of baize to make the child a petticoat. 
 Paid for 2 bands for the child. 
 Paid for 3 blue aprons. 
 Paid for 2 yards of cobweb laces for Bess. 
 Paid for 2 ounces of gold lace to edge the child's scaif. 
 
 This bill included in the former, 
 
 1 11 
 
 (1G25.) Indorsed by Sir J. Coke : " Mint." 
 
 Perhaps notes for speeches by Sir J. Coke in the House of Commons 
 as member for the University of Cambridge. 
 
 1625-0, January 2. York House. Richard Graham to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, principal Secretary to His Majesty at his house at 
 Tottenham. 
 
 Having seen this Dutchman's mares and geldings, I have made choice 
 of these five bay mares which I have caused him to bring over to show 
 to you, and if you like them, I have bargained with him for 18/. a 
 piece. If you purpose to go with four in your coach you cannot have 
 fewer than one spare. These mares are more useful than geldings, and 
 as they are suited, much comelier, aud this Dutchman (with Avhom I 
 have at times bestowed above 5,000/. for coach horses) protesteth to me 
 they are the best he ever brought over. The cart geldings are altogether 
 u u useful to you. 
 
 1625-6, January 2. Hinton. John Poulett to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Secretary of State at the Court.
 
 248 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. M. de Soubise sends a French gentleman to London to see what is 
 become of his agents there, having received no advertisements from them 
 these five or six weeks, which puts him into a little melancholy. The 
 reports which malice and envy had hatched upon the return of some of 
 the first ships of the fleet was such as many good men were much grieved 
 at it, but truth coming after with a slow gaze hath blown away those 
 frothy rumours of malicious tongues ; and I doubt not but in time people 
 will discern those that strive to nourish misbelief of things acted, and to 
 beget in the multitude a prejudicate ill opinion of things to come, men 
 ill-affected, whereof 1 shall more particularly advertise you when I see 
 you at the Court. 
 
 1625-6, January 5. Plymouth. John Clifton to Sir John Coke. 
 Report of his view of stores in the "West. Ships carrying soldiers so 
 unwholesome that eight or nine die a day. 
 
 1625-6, January 9. Edmonton. Thomas Alured to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries, and of His 
 most honourable Privy Council at Court. 
 
 Give me leave to propound again. 
 
 If you would bespeak, against the coronation, two or three knights 
 that you may have in your power to pleasure some that were not 
 unworthy, nor would not be unthankful. I presume of one or two for 
 that end. 1 should acknowledge it a favour if you would vouchsafe my 
 elder brother that honour. He hath married the late Lord Knyvett's 
 niece, being cousin german within half a remove to the Duchess of 
 Buckingham. I should wish that Sir Edward Coke might succeed him 
 who was his successor in the Common Pleas, which would not only avail 
 ad faciendum populum, but it would win him (if there be anything won 
 by him). Since there is a necessity for this parliament, I presume you 
 will think that for the better piecing and jointing things, such knots 
 may be smoothed and planed. 
 
 1625-6, January 10. George Davies Account of Alderman Gore's 
 estate. 
 
 1625-6, January 11. Sherborne. Captain Levett to Sir John Coke, 
 Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I have presumed to come home to my own house, where, God willing, 
 I purpose to stay until I hear from your honour, hoping I do not offend, 
 for by my commission the command of the ship was committed to me, 
 but as for the munition the master, boatswain, and gunner have indented. 
 I would rather choose to be a shepherd than ever to go in a collier again. 
 If your honour please to ask my Lord Cromwell or Sir George Blunden 
 they can tell you that I had neither sweet beer, water, wine, cider, nor 
 strong water for a long time before I came home, as also they can tell 
 you whether I am a mariner or no, for 1 kept the company a month at 
 the least, and though I had lost my master, and had two mates that can 
 scarce write their names, yet thanks be to God we kept our reckoning 
 better and failed less in our course than the Bonadventure wherein 
 my Lord was. I had a hand in every observation, either of sun or star, 
 and in casting up every reckoning of the ship's way. I wish I might 
 be examined by the four masters of England for the mariner's art, so as 
 I might hereafter either be employed in my right place, or cashiered for 
 an unworthy fellow. Remembering what Abraham said to the Lord 
 when he besought him to spare Sodom, so by way of imitation 1 say, let 
 not your honour be offended with his servant, and he will speak but this 
 once there is a ship called the Neptune, now taken up for His 
 Majesty's service, I hope there is as much reason that J should command 
 her as any other.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 249 
 
 1625-6, January 13. Bramle near to Chudleigh. Valentine Carey, CogE MSS 
 Bishop of Exeter, to Sir John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary to His 
 Majesty at Court. 
 
 My family are in good health, I reckon your daughter for one of the 
 number. The sickness is dispersed into diverse places in this country, 
 and Exeter as yet is not free of it. The weak government there gives 
 strength to the increase and continuance of it among them, insomuch 
 as I am constrained to debar them of sermons in their churches, for 
 avoiding the combining of the sick and the whole which caused a re- 
 viving of the infection and a great death of many. I presently took 
 order to permit only divine service, whereto they have no very good 
 affection nor fervent desire to frequent. I was mindful of you for 
 your place of burgess from St. Germans, and to that purpose I wrote 
 to the Corporation, yet for more certainty I will send another mes- 
 senger. Yesterday the summons was brought to me for my appearance 
 and attendance at Parliament, and also notice of His Majesty's coro- 
 nation, February 2nd. I must entreat your favour, in case I be not 
 there, to procure me leave of coming tarde. We dare not make our 
 provisions from Exeter. There is not a horse to be had for money, and 
 therefore I am like enough to send to Sir James Bagg for your horse 
 and to bring him unto you at our coming. We have received many 
 courtesies from Sir George Chudleigh and the old lady his mother, and 
 all for your sake. My wife hath been godmother to a young child 
 born to Sir George since our coming hither. A letter should be ap- 
 pointed to be left with the postmaster of Ashburton. Your humble 
 servant and loving brother. 
 
 1625-6, January 16. Doctors Commons. R. Wyan to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries. 
 
 I put your Honour in mind to examine Adrian Hendricks, &c, whom 
 I do find to claim goods for Dan Nesse, which your Honour hath 
 discovered to belong to men of Zante. These men, I do think, being 
 fully charged by you can and will tell truths, for they have estates 
 which they fear to endanger. I am in the middle of our defences, the 
 Judge sayeth that my Lord commandeth all possible expedition. I 
 beseech you give order that Hugesson and his brother Abraham and 
 such other witnesses as will depose to our intention do come in with all 
 speed. 
 
 1625-6,January 17. Plymouth. Captain John Penington to Sir John 
 Coke, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 Wednesday I was with M. Soubise at Mr. Poulett's house at ITinton. 
 He desireth convoy for the victuals and ships. Doubtful how to bring 
 them safe to Rochelle ; 23 sail most of thorn poor miserable rotten 
 things; money to be sent. Their men are in number 1,262, and all 
 lusty fellows, but miserably poor. The French victualled with the 
 worst of the remains, and bought beer. Merchants unwilling to stay ; 
 the best ships most defective. I shall hardly be furnished with my 
 whole number till those come out of Ireland. Swiftsure, Bonadven- 
 tare, and Couvertine, ready to go aground this spring, with six mer- 
 chant ships ; will be ready in 20 days to take in victuals to be sent. 
 Ground tackle wanting. The corn prize not yet come from Falmouth, 
 but I send a particular of her lading. Here is come from St. Lucas the 
 St. Peter of Calais. Her captain 1 found a subtle, cunning fellow ; his 
 letters of advice blanks. I brought him ashore and left the master of 
 my ship. You shall perceive by the relations of the English that it is 
 good prize. She is fully laden with wools, hides, campeachy wood, oils,
 
 250 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION; 
 
 figs, raisins, cochineal, tobacco, and bales of other goods ; 19 bags of 
 silver which I think may contain 30/. apiece. Victuals and provi- 
 sions to be despatched away. Sir James Bagg wondrous industrious 
 for His Majesty's and my Lord Duke's benefit. A ship with cordage, 
 &c, to be sent, also a strict command for a press, for the greatest part 
 of the seamen are sick and dead. His Grace's warrant to be sent for 
 delivery of provisions to the French. 
 
 1625-6, January 18. Aboard the Entrance in the Downs. Sir 
 Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the principal Secre- 
 taries of State, and of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 I had notice of 11 Hamburgers homeward bound from Malaga, to stay 
 which I have sent out 4 ships. My Lord Duke hath written to me that 
 he hath received information that all this Christmas there was no 
 principal officer aboard my ship. Except the boatswains to whom I 
 gave leave they lay not one of them out of the ship all that time and 
 myself was employed in the Christmas to carry over my Lord of Holland 
 and Sir Dudley Carleton. I desire that you will favour my having the 
 St. Peter now at Dover. 
 
 1625-6, January 19. Londres. Filippe Burlamachi a Mr. Jean 
 Coke, Chevalier Conseiller et Secretaire d'Etat de sa Majeste en Cour. 
 
 Ayant passe deux mois fait provision de vingt milles livres au Comte 
 de Mansfeld avec promesse tres assuree que je recevrais satisfaction hors 
 des prises, si a cet heure on detourne ma satisfaction pour autre service 
 il faut que je dise librement qu'on me vent miner de tout. Car le fait 
 des lettres de change est si delicat que la moindre omission de satisfaction 
 est suffisante pour miner un homme. A ceterme je me trouve si on ne me 
 tient parole. L'assurance qu'on m'a toujours donnee de toucher le 
 premier argent me fut confirmee en un dimanche par Monseigneur le 
 Due en presence de V. S. tres Illustre et de Monseigneur Conway. 
 Pour l'argent des huiles M. PAmbassadeur sera tres content qu'il soit en 
 mes mains. Si je pouvais cheminer jefusse venu moi-meme supplier 
 Monseigneur le Due et vous autres Messieurs d'avoir regard a mon etat. 
 
 1625-6, January 20. Hinton. John Poulett to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Secretary of State to His Majesty at the Court. 
 
 Your letter sent me by Captain Penington brought a great deal of 
 contentment to Monsieur de Soubize, and now he resolves for the better 
 despatch of some business and to put an order in his affairs to make a 
 journey to Plymouth, whither I shall attend him and furnish him with 
 the best means I can. My brother repairs at this present to the Court. 
 I have requested him to signify some things to you. 
 
 1625-6, January 20. Sir Robert Heath, Attorney- General, to Sir 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 A year and a half since I received a commandment from His late 
 Majesty to settle the tobacco business for the King's service by an 
 agency, and it was committed to some citizens of London of good 
 experience and ability. This hath been interrupted partly by the 
 opposition of others, partly by the interposition of these dangerous 
 times, I am sure for the present to the King's loss of 10,000/. per annum 
 at the least, and I fear to the discouragement of the plantations of 
 Virginia and the Summer Islands. There t is now a good quantity of 
 Spanish tobacco taken by prize, which must be sold for the King, and 
 to be transported, or else the plantations will be utterly overthrown. 
 They are humble suitors that they may be preferred to buy that tobacco 
 at the price it is valued to be sold.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 251 
 
 1625-6, January 22. Bremble. Valentine Carey, Bishop of Exeter, Coke 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary to His Majesty at 
 Court. 
 
 I wrote unto your Honour very lately, wherein I tendered a suit unto 
 you. . . . that you would be pleased to make my excuse to His 
 Majesty for coming tarde to give my attendance at the Parliament. 
 Some bodily infirmity doth necessarily expose me to presume upon His 
 Majesty's gracious pardon for my slackness in coming a fortnight after 
 the time of summons. I sent a direct messenger to St. Germains in 
 Cornwall requesting the like favour of that Corporation as my prede- 
 cessors and myself had formerly found. I requested of them their 
 election to be made with a blank and left to my nomination, but if that 
 could not be obtained then I commended unto them your name. The 
 portreeve, who is the chief of that body, returned me answer that he 
 despaired of obtaining a blank, but made little doubt of their electing of 
 you, yet could not make promise, it being a business resting in the wills 
 of others besides himself, and chiefly in Sir John Elliot, who being 
 tenant to me of that whole lordship bears (as it seems) a great sway 
 amongst them. I forbore, according to your appointment, to write or 
 send unto him, and whether he will take that my permission offensively 
 or not I cannot tell. I rest very well assured he could not divert 
 them from their due respect to me. I sent to Sir James Bagg for 
 your horse which was brought unto me, but so extreme lame of one of 
 his fore feet I doubt he will not be able to travel by the time of 
 my coming from hence; if he so continue lame, still I will leave 
 him with Sir George Chudleigh. 
 
 1625-6, January 22. Aboard the Ann Boi/al at Kinsale. Sir Thomas 
 Love to Sir John Coke, Knight, Secretary to the King's Most Excellent 
 Majesty. 
 
 I have taken sails out of the Reformation mistrusting ours. A sup- 
 ply for her to be ordered, for her masts, sails, and ropes are all spent 
 and lost. I have taken away some of her men and \ictualled her for 
 four months. The landmen are now billetted in the country yet there 
 is nothing but sickness, death, foul weather, trouble, and expense of 
 money. The Globe cast away in Baltimore harbour. At Crcok- 
 haven Sir John Chudleigh made stay of a barque from Bilboa Avith five 
 Jesuits in her and hath order to bring them for England. We have 
 stayed in this harbour a ship from Lisbon. They say they belong to 
 Holland, but I believe it not. I had from the skipper a little bunch 
 with diamonds which presently! gave my Lord Marshal. Here is come 
 in a ship of 1,000 tons of Holland bound for the East Indies wherein is 
 the President of the Council for that country, his wife and family. She 
 hath spent all her masts and must remain here till new ones lie sent 
 her. Pipe staves and hogshead staves might have been now laden in 
 these ships and brought over freight free. At seasonable times victuals 
 might be provided here at reasonable rates whereby His Majesty may 
 save much charge. 
 
 1625-6, January 23. "Mr. Wvirn's queries'' concerning ships and 
 goods taken as prize. 
 
 1625-6, January 23. Yarmouth. (Jeorge Hardware to Captain 
 John Hamsley dwelling in, Fish Street in London next unto the 
 church there. 
 
 Description of fish sent. I pray it may safely come to your hands. 
 There is 3 Dunkirkcrs riding about Orford Ness one with 27 pieces 
 of brass, whose force doth so scare us upon the coast that we cannot 
 sleep without much fear in our beds, neither dares any ship or barque
 
 252 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 stir any way out of our haven till we hear of some succour from London. 
 At present here is some 10 sail in our haven laden for London, but 
 none dare attempt to go out. 
 
 1625-6, January 24. .Examination'of Thomas Williams touching the 
 St. Pete?; now in Hamoaze, laden with goods of the subjects of the 
 King of Spain, cochineal, Campeachy ware, silver plate, and money. 
 
 1625-6, January 28. Ashton. Sir George Chudleigh to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Expressing his thankfulness for courteous remembrance of him to 
 His Majesty. 
 
 1625-6, January 30. Cambridge. Dr. Goslin, Vice-Chancellor, to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Veteres amores renovat et repetit Academia, et te quidem amplexa 
 est tanquam matri aliquando subsidio futurum. In Aula apud Prin- 
 cipem oratorem agas causae literariae. 
 
 1625-6, January 30. Rudhall. John Rudhall to Sir John Coke. 
 New Year congratulations. 
 
 Janus adest, votiva suo cum solvit amico Grati animi pignus munera 
 
 quisque sua. 
 Quod tibi devoveam nihil est : me possidet alter. Devovi dudum 
 
 nam mea meque tibi. 
 Ergo te dignum si vis det munus amicus, vt me dem rursus me 
 
 mihi redde prius. 
 
 1625-6, January 30. Hamoaze. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, principal Secretary to His Majesty at Court. 
 
 For His Majesty's special service. Haste, haste, poste haste, with 
 speed. At Plymouth, 30th January, 7 at night. Ashburton, 10 fore- 
 noon, January 31. Chillingford at 5 o'clock at night, 31 January. 
 Honiton about 9 at night. Sherborne, 5 o'clock at night. At Andover, 
 6 of the clock in the morning, 2nd of February. Basingstoke, 1 after- 
 noon. Hartford bridge at 5 in the afternoon, being Thursday, 2nd of 
 February. Staines, past 12 at noon. 
 
 The special respect I owe unto the East India Company makes me 
 bold to use your favour in their behalf and for conveyance of this 
 enclosed to your friends. It reports of there being upon the coast of 
 the ship the Star, and of the arrival here of the of Am- 
 
 sterdam, a ship laden with indigo and silks. I last summer received 
 command from my Lord for the stay of ail Dutch ships. I hope the 
 cause is removed, but pray your Honour to inform His Grace of this 
 much. 
 
 1625-6, January 31. The Downs, aboard the Entrance. Sir Henry 
 Palmer to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Has sent up a Dantzicker laden with pipestaves for Lisbon. Clothes 
 for marines are to be sent. 
 
 1625-6, February 1. Sir George Chudleigh to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries at Court. 
 
 Finding by my Lord Bishop that he is not certain of your being 
 chosen a burgess for St. Germans, and that Cambridge is in some 
 competition, I thought good to make your Honour the tender of icy 
 fortune if your own should chance to fail in other places. With me it 
 stands thus. Upon my letters to Sir Reynold Mohune (my constant 
 friend in these things) that I was uncertain in my resolutions "whether 
 I would be of this parliament or not I received from him a blank bur-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 253 
 
 gess-ship* with liberty to put in my own name or my son's. Now my 
 purpose is God willing to hold it still a blank till I be certain from your 
 honour or some other way that you have elsewhere a place in parlia- 
 ment. And I doubt not of obtaining power to put your name into my 
 blank if need require it having already written to that effect to Sir 
 Reynold Mohune. I beseech your Honour therefore to write a word 
 how you are sped either to my Lord Bishop or to myself. My hope is 
 there will be such unanimity between the State and the House of Com- 
 mons as for some private occasions I should now gladly be a spectator, 
 and give my son a little breeding there. 
 
 1625-6, February 2. Aboard the Hector iu Yarmouth Roads 
 
 Captain Richard Harris to Sir John Wolstenholme, Knight, and the 
 rest of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Sir Henry Palmer, Admiral of the Narrow Seas, received order from 
 my Lord Duke of Buckingham, Lord High Admiral of England, 
 for the sending of four ships, the Great Neptune, the Hector, the 
 Frances Bonadventurc, and the Alathea, for Harwich, to wash, 
 grave, and tallow our ships one by one, and the other three ships to 
 serve the north coasts. At Harwich we heard some Dunkirkers had 
 taken and put ashore some small shipping in Aldborough Bay and 
 Orford Ness. On 29th January we three ships came out of Harwich 
 with four small ships richly laden from London for Yarmouth, Lynn, 
 and Hull. At Yarmouth Ave were advised by the Bailiffs and others 
 that some Dunkirkers lay off the Spurn before Humber, and a seaman 
 from Cromer told us that one of them, a ship of some 16 pieces of 
 ordnance came aground upon a shoal near unto the Spurn. The others 
 being small plied off and on that place to relieve them. Upon this 
 report we thought fit to send two of our ships to convoy the ships of 
 Lynn and Hull and also to assault that ship that was aground. We 
 hear that there are ships at Hull laden with lead for London, and at 
 Yarmouth so low as Aldborough and those parts many small shipping 
 laden with butter, cheese, fish, and other provisions for London which 
 dare not stir out to sea without convoy. I purpose, God willing, to 
 secure them so far as Harwich. The Alathea doth require to be, 
 graved, for the Hector and Frances Bonadventurc our purpose is 
 only to ground our ships to wash and tallow them : we return back 
 into the Downs. We found in this road a pink, as lie saith of 
 Camphier in Zealand, laden with victual at a place called Burlington to 
 the northward. 
 
 1(525-6, February 4. Whitehall. Sir John Coke to Mr. Wyan at 
 Doctors Commons. 
 
 The French merchants press exceedingly for the discharge of the 
 Peter of Havre de Grace. I am much called upon by the Venetian 
 Ambassador lor a sight of the cargaison of your j-hip the Faith. He 
 proceedcth not with clamour as others have done, but with a fair 
 moderation. 
 
 1625-0, February lth. Plymouth. Captain J. Penington to Sir J 
 Coke. 
 
 I send herewith a particular of what ships I have taken up and have 
 here a fitting, as also of the rest that are to come from the Downs 
 There is in this note ','>9 and 1 have given order to take up 3 more al 
 Dartmouth. 1 likewise gave order to Nathaniel Apslyne, my carpenter, 
 
 * The burgess-ship was probably for Kast Looe, for which J. Chudleigh becamu 
 member. Sir J. Coke was chosen for Cambridge University.
 
 254 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 of the Lion to fit up the Dreadnought in regard my Lord Duke 
 writes to me that he will be here and purposes to go himself in person, 
 in respect whereof he desires to have the fleet made as strong as I can 
 make it from hence. Monsieur Soubize stayed here but four days and 
 left all things to me for the seeing of his ships fitted up. I have 
 victualled the French out of the remains, the greater part ;was very 
 poor and such as our people would hardly eat, I do not hear of the 
 provisions that should come from London to be transported for Rochelle. 
 For the ships, both English and French shall be ready to take in their 
 victuals within 14 days. I leave all other business to the verbal relatiou 
 of this noble gentleman Sir James Bagg, who hath sufficiently expressed 
 his forwardness and care for the advancement of His Majesty's service 
 here. 
 
 1625-6, February 5. A despatch from Henry Rich, Earl of Holland, 
 and Sir Dudley Carleton from Paris. (Copy.) 
 
 We have been this morning in conference at the Louvre with the 
 Cardinal de Richelieu, -whom we found accompanied with the Marshal 
 Schomberg and the Secretary Villeauxclercs. No difficulties in the 
 restitution of the ships. Objections to the treaty of the Hague. Another 
 way of proceeding would give what we desire. A new army to invade 
 Germany to be commanded not by the Elector Palatine, but by some 
 German Prince. They seemed to like of the Marquis of Baden. 
 M. Aerssens employed by the Prince of Piedmont. Touching peace on 
 the side of the Valtelline and Piedmont. We were here concluding 
 when we received your Lordship's letters by Mr. Clarke of the 29th of 
 the last. We hope the success of our negociations will justify our pro- 
 ceedings and they be more favourably censured. And surely, but we 
 find our doings ill-taken, we should no whit repent them considering 
 first, how this King his mother and all the Court (except such as they 
 term Ligueurs Espagnolizes and even those are silenced save that they 
 whisper in corners that their King is compelled to make peace with the 
 Huguenots against his will when he had their ruin and extirpation in his 
 hand) do acknowledge His Majesty's carriage in this cause as an 
 obligation put both upon Crown and Kingdom. 2ndly, views of those of 
 the religion. 3rdly, their condition in general and particularly of the 
 Rochellers. 4thly, no securities in His Majesty's hands, but the islands 
 of Rochelle. othly, what engagements His Majesty hath by sea and land. 
 6thly, what aid to be hoped for in His Majesty's present engagements 
 in Germany. Lastly, all ministers of princes and states in this court 
 concur in His Majesty's aims, which is the diminution of the Spanish 
 and Austrian greatness. 
 
 The edict of pacification is drawn and shall come out to-morrow. 
 Rebellion is changed into Desobeissance and all the privileges of the 
 town of Rochelle are preserved unto them. 
 
 1625-6, February 6. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley, to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 I received a letter from you for the stay of a young man that should 
 come from Cambridge. Here is now such a like man I have made stay of, 
 he tells me his name is Thomas Maples, newly come from Cambridge, 
 reasonable tall, long hair, blushing something, thin faced. His ground 
 of going into France is slight in my opinion. 
 
 1625-6, February 8. Youghal. Sir Edw. Villiers, President of 
 Munster, to the Lords of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 According to your signification of His Majesty's pleasure requiring me 
 to cause all the land soldiers of the fleet to be landed billetted and 
 lodged within this province at the rate of two shillings and sixpence a
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 255 
 
 week, I have discharged my duty therein. Officers and soldiers equally 
 suffer, the one having been compelled to pawn their clothes, the other 
 having so worn out theirs as that they are ready to starve. The officers 
 in the port towns not discharging their duties in mustering their soldiers 
 by poll, I have employed four trusty men two several ways to muster 
 them by poll. I have observed the captains very desirous to take on as 
 many soldiers as they could, of which I have restrained them, because it 
 begat an inconvenience in making divers soldiers to run from their 
 colours If my Lord of Cork had not at the request of your Lordships 
 supplied me with 500/., this unfortunate army could not have risen to 
 have been garrisoned in several places as now they be with reasonable 
 good commodity for themselves though great trouble to the country. I 
 have no hope for these soldiers to be longer supplied without present 
 relief. 
 
 1655-6, February 9. The Hague. Sir Dudley Carleton to 
 
 My very good Lord. My last of the 31st January gave you account 
 of our endeavours in the business of the jewels. The town of 
 Amsterdam refuse to engage themselves further than only for the 
 custody of the jewels. To quicken their minds Mr. Crow and Mr. 
 Calendrini delivered yesterday unto the States General a protest in a 
 style somewhat strange, being this in substance that His Majesty having 
 had so much assurance <riven his Ambassador here of having the sum 
 200,000/. delivered upon these pawns, and understanding it to be in the 
 power of this State to make good that assurance, shall remain blameless 
 if any of those great and important actions which His Majesty hath 
 obliged himself unto for the common cause come to fail for want of these 
 monies. The Pensionary of Holland tells me the States General will 
 not stick to engage themselves to those of Holland, and he doth not 
 greatly fear but that the States of Holland will be persuaded to become 
 sureties to the town of Amsterdam. What should be raised by means 
 of these jewels is not like much to exceed 40,000/., which may be had 
 by help of Sir Peter Vanlore and Mr. Burlamachi's correspondents 
 upon the most vendible part of the jewels. The hastiness of this 
 passage, being in a hired Skeveling pink, forceth me to omit all further 
 advertisement. I shall repair the omission by the ordinary of the mer- 
 chants of Delft. 
 
 1625-6, February 11. Whitehall. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. "Copy 
 of a letter to the Lord Holland and Sir Dudley Carleton, Ambassadors 
 in France, in answer of theirs of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th of the same month. 
 Sent by Mr. Montague." Pacification of French King to be ratified in 
 Parliament, and accepted by M. Soubise and the Rochcllers. The 
 Ambassadors must press for a restitution of the ships including His 
 Majesty's row barge. The raising of an English -French army ib not to 
 be entertained. This much His Majesty hath given me in charge, and 1 
 write unto you by reason of the Lord Conway's indisposition. The 
 bearer is Mr. Montague. 
 
 1625-6, February 13. Susan Bates to her uncle Sir John Coke, 
 Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I was yesterday with my Lady the Duchess of Richmond at Exeter 
 House, where she lives. I told her I heard Dr. Belleanes should shortly 
 be preferred, and now if her Grace pleased I knew she had power either 
 by word or letter to the King to get the mastership of the Savoy for my 
 good man. The revenue, 200 marks a year, it lies most convenient for 
 him, by reason some part of it is in this parish. Her Grace has 
 promised me to do her best to get it for us. 1 know her Grace hath
 
 256 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 some other business with you. I humbly desire you to let me know 
 when you will come to my Lady. 
 
 1625-6, February 15. Plymouth. Sir Ferdinand Gorges to Sir John 
 Coke, knight, Principal Secretary to His most Excellent Majesty at 
 Court. 
 
 The Hollanders have quit the business of Portrego (Porto Rico), 
 having sacked and demolished the town, but could not take the Castle. 
 Finds fault with the conduct of the late expedition. What Captain is 
 there of our nation at this present ever gave his mind to understand 
 what belongs to the affairs of the seas. As for your proceedings in Par- 
 liament T behold with fear a certain confusion in all our courses, aud 
 from thence a wonderful irresolution ; to be plain with you this it is 
 that discourages the Low Country captains as well as others of judgment, 
 and makes proud and insolent our enemies abroad, together with the 
 late experience they have had of our ignorant and cowardly attempt as 
 they term it. The wicked mutiny of my late master and his con- 
 spiracy to run away with my ship, his sly and lewd practice with my 
 money in his hands. 
 
 1625-6, February 13. Ashton. Sir George Chudleigh to Sir John 
 Coke at Court. 
 
 Am bold to present a little unworthy nag that may be not unfit for 
 your footcloth. 
 
 1625-6, February 15. Plymouth. Captain J. Penington to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I return a letter directed to Mr. Wyan at Doctors Commons. 
 
 The ships I have taken up here and at Dartmouth besides those from 
 Portsmouth and the Downs make in all 43, and by my Lord Admiral's 
 order I am to make them up 50 at the least. I have finished all the 
 French ships, the whole 24 are likewise victualled for three months but 
 five weeks are already spent. I must entreat your honour that I may 
 have speedily money made over to me. [Particulars of expenditure on 
 French aud king's and merchant ships ] Peace between the French 
 king and the Rochellers uncertain. 20 sail seut from St. Malo to join 
 with his oiher forces before Rochelle. It were necessary a fleet Avere 
 presently sent to lie up and down on the Spanish coast to use means to 
 fire them in their harbours and to give them battle on their own coast. 
 They should have ill luck if they made not a saving voyage upon the 
 outward bound fleets for Brazil and the West Indies. For the choice 
 of the captains and masters, Mr. Nicholas writ me I should not meddle 
 for that my Lord would be here himself to do it. I see no preparation 
 for victual here. What is done at London I know not. Here is one 
 employed from Mr. Lieutenant for that purpose, but he hath no money 
 and credit here will not be had. 
 
 1625-6, February 22. Paris. Henry Rich, Earl of Holland aud Sir 
 Dudley Carleton. 
 
 May it please your Majesty, We are exceedingly comforted with your 
 Majesty's gracious message received this last night by Mr. Montague. 
 Our complaint against Blainville we have already begun (in the King's 
 absence and Queen Mother's retiredness by reason of physic) with the 
 Cardinal de Richelieu, to whom we conducted Mr. Montague, to his 
 house here by in the country whither sickness carrieth him often for 
 change of air. To foment misunderstandings between your Majesty 
 aud the Queen, to misprise the Privy Council and the officers of 
 justice, and to nourish ill intelligence between your Majesty and this 
 King was told him to be Blainviile's common practices. The Cardinal
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 257 
 
 confirmed unto us that, his revocation was already sent, and that his 
 successor La Fossee is speedily to be despatched with commandment 
 one of them to be at Dover the other at Calais at the self same time. 
 
 1625-6, February 23. Ashton. Sir George Chudleigh to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, His Majesty's principal Secretary at Court. 
 
 Your letters manifesting your acceptance of my poor services for 
 my country yield me much content. I understood of your Honour's 
 election a burgess for Cambridge, yet till I heard from your Honour 
 I was loth absolutely to dispose of this whereunto if it had pleased 
 you to have placed a more useful member for the furtherance of His 
 Majesty's royal and well set designs I should not have thought it 
 an intrusion. This young man professing as is fit to be only a learner 
 is already taught this much, that following your ways he shall not err. 
 
 1625-6, February 25. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. " Letter to the Earl 
 of Holland and Sir Dudley Carleton, Ambassadors in France." 
 
 Your letters of the 15th of February have been read to His Majesty 
 in presence of such select Lords as are acquainted with these affairs, 
 and your judicious proceeding for renewing the defensive alliance 
 betwixt the two crowns made in the year 1610 was very well approved. 
 Our ships are still detained, and a new arrest is made of the goods of 
 our merchants, besides the promised contributions to the King of Den- 
 mark and Count Mansfeld are unpaid, and so are the monies due for 
 the hire of our ships. Of the Prince of Piedmont's person His Majesty 
 hath conceived a singular good opinion, and respecteth all his actions, 
 and so valueth his wisdom and activeness in affairs that he cannot doubt 
 his endeavours will advance his own designs, which he hath handsomely 
 wrought by getting the managing of these negotiations into his hands 
 and propounding such things as seem indeed good, but are not feasible 
 for us, and such as are really good and not difficult for himself. A 
 descent into Flanders not practicable, Artois easier. His Majesty 
 refuseth to enter into the league of the Hague, but agreeth to unite the 
 two leagues. You are required to press for a present restitution of our 
 ships. For some real act showing that peace is given to the Protestants. 
 A present supply of money to the King of Denmark and to Count 
 Mansfeld. For a main-levee to free our merchant ships and goods. 
 Lastly for a settling of the disturbances made here by M. Blainville. 
 You must acquaint the King and his Ministers how much it may con- 
 cern not only the interest of the King of Bohemia, but of the common 
 cause, that the meeting of the Emperor and Electors at Nuremberg in 
 May be put off by persuading the Duke of Savoy to excuse himself from 
 it as Brandenburg hath done. 
 
 1625-6, February 25. Plymouth. Sir Ferdinando Gorges, John 
 Grobbell, and John Fowell to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary to His Most Excellent Majesty at Court. 
 
 This inclosed coming to our hands we have thought fit to recom- 
 mend it to your farther consideration. We find most part of the ships 
 that are here under the command of Captain Penington to be in a 
 manner ready to take in their victuals. 
 
 [Inclosure. A small printed title page, Meditationes ac Soliloquia 
 in septem Petitiones Orationis Dominica? Authore R.P.F. Eli;-a?o a S. 
 Michaele Carmelita Discalceato. 
 
 Sic ergo vos orabitis : Pater noster qui es in ccelis. Matt. 6. 
 
 Antwerpia) Apud Petrura et Joannem Belleros mdcxxiv.]. 
 
 1625-6, February 27. Aboard the Ann Royal, off Dover. Sir 
 Thomas Love to Sir John Coke, Knight, Secretary to the King's Most 
 Excellent Majesty. 
 
 U 24963. r
 
 258 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Whilst we were in Kinsale we trimmed our ship and stopped the 
 leaks, and the 28th January set sail out of that harbour with six of 
 the coal ships the Dutch ship and the ship of Dover which we had 
 from the Turk laden with wood and iron. We were in danger of 
 being put to the westward of all Ireland, yet it pleased God that we 
 got into Berehaven. Sickness and mortality doth still continue 
 amongst us and is much dispersed amongst the country people in the 
 places where we have been. The 19th of this month we set sail out of 
 Berehaven. but by contrary winds were forced back again into Crook- 
 haven, but the Dover prize lost us, yet I hope she is in safety. We 
 trimmed our ship the second time, and stopped our leaks and the 
 23rd of this present came from thence with the Rainbow of 
 the King's, the Dragon, the Prudence, one coal ship and the 
 Dutch ship in company with us. This ship at present is as un- 
 serviceable for sea or roads as her men be, therefore your Honour may 
 be pleased to give order for the sending of a pilot and a long boat 
 only for the hastening of her up, and the rest of the ships that be 
 here, for easing of His Majesty's charge. We have had an expense 
 of money in Ireland amongst sick land and sea men and for victuals. 
 
 1625-6, February 27. The Downs. Sir Edward Cecyll (no 
 address). 
 
 Bight Honourable, Winter is ordained not for fruit or profit, but for 
 calamities, miseries and misfortune, as we have found in this journey. 
 I would not refuse any danger, seeing His Majesty and my Lord 
 Duke so resolved. Che fa il Principe e ben fatto. More ignorant 
 Captains and officers can hardly be found, and men more careless of 
 His Majesty's honour and profit ; there might have been much more- 
 done. The officers have thieves at their command to convey away 
 their fees in boys of the worst sort, and with them share in wages as in- 
 sufficient men. Cozenage of stores. If I should not commend Sir 
 Thomas Love for his care, industry, and sufficiency for His Majesty's 
 profit and honour I should do His Majesty and my conscience wrong. 
 Those ships that were appointed to carry beer for me carried away 
 from us, for I did never see a drop of it, which hath put us to some 
 want and misery (at Kinsale). My Lord President Villiers of Munster 
 received sick men into his charge. When the charge of this journey 
 shall be compared with other journeys that had no landmen with them 
 we shall not be found ill husbands for His Majesty. This journey may 
 turn to His Majesty's great profit for the breeding of officers and 
 mariners. And if he hath gotten but this commodity to have exercised 
 his subjects in the discipline of war after so long a peace, and to have 
 given by this action a public notice to all his allies that he hath dared 
 to break with the great King of Spain, no doubt but it will return to 
 his honour and profit. This hath been my first action by sea ; but 
 order and command should be as well at sea as at land, and that which 
 is most strict is best, wherein we did pass the seamen, but this winter 
 journey hath learned us much. The Commissioners have done 
 admirable things for His Majesty's profit, wherein everyone knows you 
 to be the soul of the Commission and sole doer, so I hope we that have 
 been abroad have studied how to return some profit to His Majesty's 
 service. The chief thing is to have the mariners better paid ; as His 
 Majesty's pay now is, all good sailors fly his service. These in this 
 action were the worst that ever were seen, for they are so out of order 
 and command and so stupified that punish them or beat them they will 
 scarce stir. Their ordinary talk being that His Majesty presseth them 
 and giveth them so little means that it were better to be hanged, or 
 serve the King of Spain or the Turk. There cannot be less gotten
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION". 259 
 
 than out of the wages of a mariner. It being in this, as in all things 
 else, as the Italian saith, which is the wisest of all nations though the 
 most miserable of any, that Che picu (poco ?) spende manco spende. It' 
 His Majesty's pay were but as other mens are to them that deserve it, 
 he might have such as no Prince can have; now his pay is as much to 
 a boy as to the most skilfullest and ablest men in the Navy. If it would 
 please my Lord Admiral to digest some better orders for the govern- 
 ment of His Majesty's fleet and to have them printed, he may do His 
 Majesty a great service and himself a perpetual honour. I see your 
 Chatham men both officers and mariners the most disorderly. Had I 
 had that experience I now have I would have refused the Anne Royal 
 for any other ship. Such great ships so overladen with ordnance are 
 not for an offensive war, for when she was rolling and working in the 
 Spanish seas in foul weather, had we not put much of her ordnance 
 into the hold, the ship had sunk she proved so leaky. We are all of 
 opinion that ships of 800 or rather 700 strongly built without carving 
 are fitter for such journeys. If I had had a good strong ship to have 
 kept the seas the fleet had not quitted me, neither had I seen Ireland 
 where I have been blocked up so long by reason of the leaks of my 
 ship that brought into Kinsale above 6 feet of water in the hold. The 
 ship after 7 weeks was beaten into Berehaven and then into Crook- 
 haven so that we have surveyed most of the south coast of Ireland. 
 But that which troubleth me most is to have so many come home 
 before me in so unfortunate a journey, where there are so many mouths 
 open to do ill offices, and untruth hath most credit and maketh most 
 impression at the first. I cannot forbear to let you know that of all 
 the King's captains Sir Michael Geere hath carried himself worst to 
 His Majesty's service. The particulars I will let you know at my 
 arrival. I have sent this bearer, Captain Marberie, to my Lord Admiral 
 to know his Excellency's pleasure how he will dispose of the shipping 
 and me. 
 
 1625-6. February 28. Edward, Lord Conway, to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 His Majesty was pleased to procure for me of our late Gracious 
 Sovereign the government of the Isle of Wight from the death of the 
 Earl of Southampton. It was made to commence not from the time of 
 the death of the Earl but from the date of the patent. There is some 
 doubt and confusion in the accounts of the Island for that interim. 
 The money is between 20/. and 30/. I have entreated Mr. Attorney 
 to prepare a warrant which I send you herewithal that His Majesty 
 may redeem the omission in my patent. 
 
 1625-6, February . His Majesty's Fort by Plymouth. Sir 
 Ferdinand Gorges. 
 
 Has stayed an East Indian man as ordered by the Lord Admiral 
 before His late Majesty's decease. Desires to nnderstand His Majesty's 
 pleasure. 
 
 1625-6, March 1. Aboard the Great Neptune, riding at Harwich, 
 Captain Edward Gyles to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of 
 State and Principal Commissioner of His Majesty's Royal Navy. 
 
 The three ships are returned. The Francis Bonadventurc and the 
 Alathca have been as far as the river of Humber. There they 
 found some It sail laden with provisions bound for London, and hath 
 been ever since Christmas and durst not put to sea. They have 
 wafted them all. The Francis Bonadcenture by striking upon a 
 sand off of Winterton Ness struck off her rudder. That night a ship 
 of Newcastle came athwart her hawse and carried away her beakhead
 
 260 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. an( j n er bowsprit, but God be thanked she is safely arrived here in 
 Harwich. This coast is no fit coast neither for the Neptune nor for 
 the Hector, they dare not to stir among the sands. 
 
 1625-6, March 3. Henry Rich Earl of Holland and Sir D. 
 Carleton, Ambassadors at Paris. Relating particulars of an audience by 
 the King of France, respecting M. Blainville's conduct, the main-levee 
 to be ordered in France in respect of merchants ships and goods, and 
 the restoration of the ships lent to France (very much faded). 
 
 1625-6, March 4, Cambridge. James Armachanus (Archbishop 
 Ussher) to Sir John Coke, Knight, His Majesty's Secretary. 
 
 I must presume to solicit you in the behalf of Sir William Ussher 
 that you would be pleased to put my Lord Duke in mind to move His 
 Majesty that he may be suffered to enjoy the benefit of his patent. I 
 humbly entreat you to give a proof of your love unto me in showing 
 favour unto my kinsman in so honest a suit. There is another matter 
 likewise which I recommended unto my Lord Duke for Doctor Rives, 
 His Majesty's Advocate, the effecting whereof I much desire as well for 
 the preventing of suits in law betwixt him and me as the love I bear 
 unto him for his worth and his ability to do his Majesty good service. 
 
 1625-6, March 4. Plymouth. Captain T. Penington to Sir J. 
 Coke, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaiies of State and Chief 
 Commissioner of His Royal Navy. 
 
 I have graved, fitted up, and furnished 29 sail of ships, the particu- 
 lars whereof you shall receive herewith, which are all riding in Catwater 
 ready to set sail at 24 hours' warning if they had victuals and a supply 
 of men. The ships are like to grow foul and unserviceable before any 
 thing be provided. It is a wonder that I have gotten and kept so many 
 men together to feed up those bare remains of victuals, they having 
 neither clothes nor pay come down to furnish them, but I wish you 
 were a spectator a little to hear their cries and exclamations, and to see 
 the trouble and vexation that I have daily with them. I have engaged 
 myself here for a great deal of rnone}\ If my Lord Admiral pleased to 
 take order we might be supplied with six weeks or two months victuals 
 for 15 or 16 sail of ships. I could man so many out of the rest. And to 
 give us order to go and He in the mouth of the Sleeve. I doubt not 
 but we should do good service upon the Hamburgers, which will now go 
 in and out daily the Sound being open, besides we should keep the coast 
 free from Dunkirkers, Turks, and other pirates which lie off and on 
 a Scilly and takes our small ships daily. Here die eight or 10 daily. 
 
 1625-6, March 4. Enclosure endorsed by Sir J. Coke. "Ships 
 prepared for a second fleet to the Southward." 
 
 The names of the ships that I [Captain Penington] have prepared 
 here with their burthens, quantity, and quality of their ordnance, and 
 the number of men that I have assigned for each ship which are all 
 ready to set sail if we had victuals and a supply of men. 
 
 1626, March 6. (Style Francais) Plymouth. M. Treslebris to M. 
 de Soubize. (In French). 
 
 I learn by yours the uncertainty in which you are while waiting news 
 from Prance. Persons who left the Isle de Re eight days ago have 
 brought intelligence which I have given to M. Gorges. The enemy 
 fortifies himself in the Isles of Oleron and Re. The Rochellers fight 
 stoutly. The Sieur Demanty has failed to procure sailors. It is 
 reported that the King's army goes to Brest. M. de Gorges has orders 
 not to allow any vessels to go out of these harbours for France, because 
 English vessels have been arrested at Bordeaux and S l Malo. For your
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 2G1 
 
 army the vessels are ready and the English also ; but the sailors are not Coke MSS, 
 
 as is to be desired, for they will not stay, owing to the great number of 
 
 the sick and the want of supplies. I have much difficulty in opposing 
 
 the violence of the sergeants who in virtue of commissions of officers 
 
 of my Lord Admiral oblige multitudes to keep in hiding. Yesterday 
 
 they took Le Juge d'Oleron, and to-day Capt. la Cave, and they have 
 
 threatened me. I have spoken to M. Gorges but he cannot prevent the 
 
 course of law. We have received nearly all the bread but only half the 
 
 other victuals. 
 
 1625-6, March 6. Full copy of the speech of Mr. Attorney General 
 Heath in the House of Commons in defence of the action of the Duke of 
 Buckingham when the St. Peter of Newhaven was arrested the 
 second time in the River Thames. 
 
 1 62/5-6, March 6. Doctors Common-. Richard Wyan to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries. 
 
 These enclosed papers were sent me from your Honour. My Lord 
 Ambassador hath often sent those that have procuration to recover them 
 to me to demand them, affirming that your Honour had given order for 
 their delivery. If you have found anything that may entitle His 
 Majesty to the same you will intimate so much to the King's Advocate. 
 
 1625-6, March 7. Hild. Sprusen to Sir John Coke, one of His 
 Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 To the end that you might the better be prepared to answer such 
 unjust reports if they should be questioned in Parliament as it is said by 
 some they will be. For the general it was said that the affairs of His 
 Majesty's Navy hath been ill carried and the chief cause thereof is 
 imputed to your Honour, and that divers of the Commissioners have said' 
 as much that your Honour hath been often convinced by good reason, not- 
 withstanding hath gone the contrary course. First, insufficiency of ships 
 that went this voyage whereby both men and ships perished. Second, 
 you prefer gentlemen to seamen to be captains in the late voyage for 
 Spain. Lastly, divers masters made captains of ships in the Narrow 
 Seas are now turned forth. Howsoever they thus talk of your Honour 
 it is to be feared their aims do reach higher. I fear he is a beast that 
 is the stirrer of these rumours for the party that spake thus much unto 
 me is one of his counsel and conceives of him beyond that he is. 
 
 1G2G, March 8. (Style Francais). Georgehitnon. M. de Soubize A 
 Monsieur Monsieur Coke, Chevalier et Secretaire d'Etat. 
 
 Je reveille encore votrc charite pour la pauvrc ville de la Rochelle. 
 Je vous prie de 1' assister de votre credit autant quevous pouvez. File 
 en a plus grand besoin possible, qu'on ne dirait a present sur les 
 discours do paix dont on nous endort. M. de Sauce vous dira ce que 
 j'en pense. Ft comme je vousTais toutes [torn] de remerciments pour 
 vos bonnes affections en raon endroit, vous le croirez, s'il vous plait, 
 Et que je suis Monsieur votre plus affectione serviteur. 
 
 1625-6, March 9. Wimbledon. Edward Cecyll, Viscount Wimbledon, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary of State to His Majesty 
 at Court. 
 
 Having order from the Lords to make ready his . Journal, asks that 
 the ship wherein his baggage is, that one Captain Mootham a Scotch- 
 man commands, may be ordered up from the Downs. Asks of the 
 Commissioners that he may buy the iron in a ship left with him by the 
 Turks of Argier (Algiers) and therefore not a prize, as he has great 
 occasion to use it for to make a stairs which he means shall be most of 
 iron. Asks that he may have satisfaction of the baggage ship for
 
 2G2 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 attending him in all this journey, his provisions he hath missed and 
 wanted these three months the mariners eat up, though under locks and 
 keys. Is summoned by the Speaker of the Lower House, as one of the 
 Council of War, asks leave of the Lords of the Council. 
 
 1625-6, March 9. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke " Copy of a letter sent 
 to the Earl of Holland and Sir Dudley Carleton." 
 
 The officers placed outside the gate of Durham House to apprehend 
 such of our nation as resorted to the mass contrary to the law were 
 drawn in and beaten by the Frenchmen. His Majesty excepteth 
 the personal behaviour of Monsier Blainville in matters which have no 
 relation to his employment as Ambassador, but he was and is used with 
 that honour and ceremony which we ever give to the ministers of the 
 most Christian King. You shall take care to ratify the league of 1610 
 before you come away. 
 
 1625-6, March 11.- -Sir J. Coke to the Archbishop of Canterbury. 
 (Copy.) m 
 
 May it please your Grace, Whilst His Majesty's ships rid in Crook- 
 haven, in Ireland, a barque came in thither from Bilbao in Spain which 
 brought these four priests from thence to be employed in that Kingdom 
 of Ireland (as your Grace may well imagine) for no good service to the 
 Church or to the peace of the State. They are now sent unto me from 
 the Admiral of the Narrow Seas by this bearer, Captain Duppa, whom I 
 have required to bring them to your Grace and to follow your 
 commandments for disposing of them. 
 
 1625-6, March 11. Interrogatories administered to the Lord Marshal 
 (Thomas Howard Earl of Arundel) before the Lord Keeper, Lord 
 Treasurer, Lord President and Secretary Coke. 
 
 1. What knowledge his Lordship had of the marriage and what 
 acquaintance with the proceedings of the treaty of marriage betwixt 
 the Lord Maltravers his son and the Lady Elizabeth Stewart. 
 
 2. When the treaty began, where and by whom. 
 
 6. Whether his Lordship were not acquainted or had not heard of His 
 Majesty's engagement for the Lord Lome. 
 
 8. Whether his Lordship gave any ring to the young lady, when, 
 where and of what value. 
 
 9. Whether on Friday morning was sennight his Lordship did not 
 know that the marriage was then past ? 
 
 10. What was your intention in asking the King's pardon that 
 Friday. 
 
 Interrogatories for the Lord and Lady Maltravers. 
 
 When either of them took affection to other, when it was first 
 expressed, where and how. 
 
 When they first acquainted their parents with their affection or 
 purpose. 
 
 Whether either of them were engaged in any former contract, 
 promise, or treaty concerning marriage, or knew that His Majesty had 
 motioned and shewn his liking of any other match for either of them. 
 
 When the marriage was celebrated, by what chaplain or priest, in 
 what church, house, or place ; who gave her in marriage, with what 
 ring they were married, and who bestowed it upon them. 
 
 Where they kept their marriage feast, who were present at it, and to 
 whom they gave gloves. 
 
 When and where they first lodged together, and how soon they 
 suffered public notice to be taken of the marriage.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 263 
 
 Whether any instructions or directions were given to either of them 
 how to carry this match, and by whom. 
 
 1625-G, March 13. Jersey. Sir John Peyton to Sir John Coke. 
 
 That the place of bailiff may be bestowed on Sir Philip Carteret. 
 One of His Majesty's pinnaces would be enough to settle the apprehen- 
 sions of the inhabitants of these Isles, who have reason to doubt the 
 Dunkirkers, Salleemen and French Picarons. Twenty of this Isle are 
 now prisoners at Sallee. 
 
 1625-6, March 13. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke " Certificate of hurt done 
 by Dunkirkers on the eastern coast." 
 
 To the Right Hon ble Sir Randall Crewe, Knight, Lord Chief Justice 
 of England. 
 
 Right Honb le . The continual and uncessant mischiefs committed 
 upon our coast by the Dunkirkers have so much multiplied our fears of 
 more in future as we have thought fit to address our letters of petition 
 to the Lords of the Conncil therein craving a present consideration and 
 remedy for our safety and defence. The same letters we have presumed 
 herewith to inclose and to leave unsealed with unanimous request from 
 us that your Lordship will please to peruse the same and to commend 
 the same to the honourable table conferring (towards accomplishment 
 of our desires) your Lordship's best favour and furtherance. Thus Ave 
 humbly take our leaves. Ready to be commanded by your Lordship 
 
 Anthony Drury. Tiio. Holl. 
 
 Hamon le Strange. Tho, Woodeiiolse. 
 
 Thomas Derham. Rich. Berney. 
 
 Cle. Corbett. William de Grey. John Hevenyngham. 
 
 Owen Sheppard. 
 
 John Smytiie. 
 
 1625-G, March 15. Jersey. David Bandinel to Sir John Coke. 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty and one of his Highness' 
 Most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Aucienne connaissance avec vous des lorsque je fus employe en la 
 maison de Mr. Verney. La charge que je porte de Doyen en cet lie. 
 Mon fils aine a donnee depuis sa venue d'Oxford des echantillons ct 
 preuves de son Ministere. Messire Jean Peyton Chevalier et Lieutenant 
 de Monsieur le Gouverneur son pere s'etant transporte sur la paroisse ou 
 mon fils pretend etre place ayant vu de fait une extreme perte advenue 
 sur un grand nombre de terres labourables envahies et couvertes des 
 sablons chassis par l'impetuosite des vents avec domage irrecuperable 
 de ce cote la, le dit Sieur Lieutenant a trouve la requete des paroissiens 
 raisonable d'avoir recours a la clemence du Roi pour demander au lieu de 
 la sixieme gerbe la tierce a, l'avenir pour subvenir a l'entretenement du 
 Ministere. C'est ma tres humble requete que lors qu'il sera (piestion 
 de cette cause elle puisse trouver avancemeut et protection par votre 
 honorable faveur. 
 
 162G, March 16. " Desaveu du Clevgc de la premiere censure de 1' 
 ' Admonitio ad Regem ' " &c. [bride par autorite de Justice], (The 
 indorsement by Sir J. Coke.) 
 
 A Declaration of Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops and Deputies of 
 the Clergy at Paris against authority in the Pope to depose kings. 
 
 1625-6, March 19. Poplar. W. Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 To weigh a ship in the Downs. 
 
 Note by Sir J. Coke. Robert Garret a seaman of Dover an able man 
 to be employed in weighing the ship.
 
 264 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 OKE MSS. 
 
 1625-6, March 20. Indorsed " Mr. Eob. Shirley to His Majesty." 
 Requests to the King relating to commerce in silks in Persia, and for 
 the King of Persia to buy ships to defend himself against Portuguese 
 (not signed). 
 
 Enclosure. A draft by Sir J. Coke of four replies to interrogatories, 
 relating to silks and to defence of Goa to be assisted by the Perians, if 
 besieged by the English. 
 
 1625-6, March 19. Pendenuis. Captain John Bony thou to Sir 
 John Coke at Court. 
 
 The Castle defenceless against Dunkirkers seen off the Harbour, or 
 Turks likely to come in the summer and to burn towns, not one piece 
 mounted. I entreat your Honour's favour to stand in my behalf for 
 the command of the Fort at Fowey, if there should be one erected. 
 The place so necessary to have one, as in His Majesty's dominions not 
 the like. 
 
 1625-6, March 21. Chatham. Peter Buck to Sir John Coke, Knight,, 
 one of the Masters of Requests to His Majesty, and a Commissioner of 
 His Royal Navy. 
 
 . . . I am bold here inclosed to present unto you an abstract of my late 
 increase of work which I desire if possible I may be eased of . . . 
 
 (About 1625-6.) Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, "Observations for the 
 Lord Duke." 
 
 " Observations upon which it may please my Lord Duke's Grace to 
 consider and as cause shall require to move His Majesty." 
 
 First, that whereas Mr. Chancellor told me that he had moved my 
 
 Lord Duke to move His Majesty to give order that a stay might be 
 
 made of the payment of all pensions, that his Grace would not move 
 
 it as from me only, but from the Chancellor and me . . . and that 
 
 it may be with this qualification, viz., that the stay may be only until 
 
 the balances of the revenue may be certified to His Majesty, and by 
 
 him censured, and in the meantime I will endeavour to inform myself 
 
 of the true state of the revenue. 
 
 ie words here Secondly, that His Majesty may be moved that for such suits as 
 
 derlined are His Majesty hath consented unto since the 11th day of December, that 
 
 erations of His Majesty would be pleased to direct a docket or schedule of 
 
 obabf-T ' exemption from express stay leaving only them to be moderated and 
 
 e Duke of qualified by the Treasurer and Chancellor 
 
 lckingharo. Thirdly, that His Majesty would take notice that there hath been 
 
 no accounts in the Courts of Wards, determined and judged as perfect 
 accounts ought to be by the space of this 40 years and more . . . 
 that His Majesty would be pleased to give authority under his signet 
 or privy seal unto the Treasurer [&c] to take order from henceforth 
 for the perfecting of the account to be made at March next . 
 
 Fourthly, that His Majesty would command his Treasurer and 
 Chancellor by letter to endeavour by all lawful ways to reduce the 
 payment of his revenues wholly into his Exchequer, and therein to 
 take the assistance of his counsel learned, and if occasion shall require 
 of his judges. 
 
 1626, March 25. Dorset House. Edward Sackville, Earl of Dorset. 
 No address. 
 
 My Lord I am in very ill case to reflect on wordly business yet 
 Avould be loth to fail in my service either to His Majesty or your 
 Lordship unto the last. I beseech your Lordship give this bearer leave 
 to impart something of importance lately happened touching the troops
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 265 
 
 in Sussex since the reception of the Lords' letters touching their 
 repairing to their rendezvous. 
 
 1626, March 26. Aboard the Garland in the Downs. Sir Henry 
 Palmer to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries of 
 State and of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council at the 
 Court. 
 
 I am forced to make known to Your Honour how much and unjustly 
 I am wronged by false suggestions to my Lord Duke's Grace of 
 negligence in my place. We are grown to that extremity of want both 
 of men and victuals as unless there be present care had the ships under 
 my charge must of tfeeessity be sent in speedily. Mr. Nicholas had 
 drawn a warrant for my entertainment in the Bonadventure for 
 2s. 8d. per diem. Afford me your assistance to advance it to some 
 indifferent proportion your Honour knowing besides my charge in the 
 ship my long attendance at Plymouth with no small expense to bring 
 home the prizes. 
 
 1626, March 28. Much Marcle John Kyrle to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Propositions for Dean Forest to be laid before the Lord Treasurer. 
 Opposition concerning the cottage at Kynaston. '^ Widow Askold in- 
 dicted by command of Sir William Jones. 
 
 1626, March 31. Pendennis. Captain John Bonython to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary unto His most Excellent Majesty at 
 Court. 
 
 Specifics several ships arrived with intelligence that the King is at 
 Lisbon, directing the preparation of a great fleet for England. I entreat 
 your Honour to take into consideration the weakness of this place, 
 where instead of 40 pieces of ordnance we have net one mounted 
 neither have no gunners allowed to the fort only 50 soldiers. 
 
 1626, April 2. Aboard His Majesty's ship the lied Lion, riding 
 in Catwater (Plymouth). Captain John Penington to Sir John Coke, 
 one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State and Chief Commis- 
 sioner of His Royal Navy. 
 
 I am ready to release the Convcrtinc if there were anybody to 
 receive her, and to pay me back 20/. for graving her, and 25/. more I 
 have engaged myself for. We are in a desperate case for want of 
 victuals and if there come not very sudden order our men will all run 
 away. Furthermore our people are naked and miserable. Besides here 
 are chirurgeons wanting and provision of salves, unguents, and other 
 physical provisions. Likewise the ships want their emptions and 
 swords, pikes, targets, gantlets, pistols, and 400 muskets, boatswains' 
 stores, sails, waste cloths, boats, oars, and such other necessaries. A 
 report of 50 sail of Hamburgers past for Spain, laden with munition. 
 I being heartily sorry our ships were not at sea to have brought them 
 in. 
 
 1626, April 7. Whitehall. Sir John Coke to Sir Ferdinand Gorges. 
 (Copy.) 
 
 The letters sent by yourself and the rest of the Commissioners have 
 from time to time been shewn to the Lords. If you have not received 
 the return you expected, our excuse; must be cast on the difficulties of 
 the times. In Captain Penington's letters I find nothing concerning 
 the French ships, whether they continue at Plymouth on His Majesty's 
 charge or whether they be returned to Kochelle, please to give me 
 information. The chief cause of my writing to you at this time is to 
 acquaint you that there hath been lately an intimation given to His
 
 266 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. Majesty concerning trench affairs, wherein it is conceived that some 
 more light may appear by a letter one Thomas Egan, of East Looe, in 
 Cornwall, received from a French merchant. Seek it out and send it to 
 me. When our Parliament shall enable us to undertake foreign service 
 your proposition shall be presented. 
 
 1626, April 12. Aboard H.M. Ship the Lion riding in Cat water* 
 Captain John Penington to Sir John Coke, one of His Majesty's 
 Principal Secretaries of State and Chief Commissioner for His Navy 
 Royal. 
 
 I am heartily sorry that the Parliament is no more sensible of the 
 consequence of this fleet, as also of a further preparation, considering 
 hew patiently our gi-eat enemy the Spaniai'd prepareth against us. One 
 Grove, with a small ship of London from Bayonne and six Biscayners 
 passengers with him, report of a wondrous preparation in Spain. They 
 saw at St. Sebastian and Passages at the least 80 boats a building and 
 built for the landing of men, and all the speech ran there that either 
 the Spaniard will have England or England shall have Spain. Whereas 
 you write that there is 2,000/. coming down unto us, Mr. Clifton and 
 myself are at least 2,500/. indebted already. The time of the year is 
 almost past both for the saving of flesh and brewing of beer. If there 
 be not some speedy course taken for the pay of the men, whereby they 
 may relieve their wants and cover their nakedness it will be impossible 
 for me to keep them. I pray you to consider what these poor souls 
 have endured for the space of these 13 or 14 months by sickness, badness 
 of victuals and nakedness. They must have fresh meat before they 
 go out to do service. The sickness increaseth in Plymouth very fast. 
 I have often writ that we might in time be removed from hence either 
 to the Isle of Wight or to Hampton Water. I purpose with the first 
 slack of wind to carry them all into Hamoaze, and ride as high up as 
 Saltash. Now we cannot keep our people from the town nor those of 
 the town from us. There are 26 sail of Monsieur Soubize's fleet gone 
 away above ten days since, and two more on Saturday last. I hear 
 they are gone directly home, every man to the place he belonged to ; 
 the want and badness of victuals being such that they fell sick very 
 fast so as many of them died, and divers of their captains and better 
 sort. 
 
 1626, April 12. His Majesty's Fort by Plymouth Sir Ferdinand 
 
 Gorges to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to his most 
 excellent Majesty at Court. 
 
 The late alarm given unto me and the Commissioners was no sooner 
 conceived than the means was found to prevent it. We assembled and 
 some being Deputy Lieutenants there was present order given for four 
 extraordinary guards in places fit to intercept any such movings. On 
 the day appointed by the contrivers I held it my duty to be myself on 
 horseback to give order to the captains and chief officers of the army, 
 as also to the trained bands. We find the business was taken before it 
 was ripe. Captain Penington hath used much discretion and care to 
 keep in order his mariners. The French ships went 13 days since for 
 want of necessaries. The peace being made they bewail the miserable 
 condition of their fortune, being for aught they could learn not in the 
 compass of the accord. Now here remains only that ship that was 
 M. de Soubize's own, called the Little St. John, and one other small 
 barque. If my judgment and intelligence do not fail me you will find 
 this peace so concluded of late (how disadvantageous soever to the poor 
 Eocheilers) is of no further or longer countenance than until they have
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 267 
 
 dispersed those troops that attended M. de Soubize his fortunes. It is 
 bruited to me on all sides that the combination is certainly concluded 
 between Spain and France to accomplish the extirpation of the religion 
 out of those parts. As for the news of Spain they make great prepara- 
 tions for a naval expedition. I beseech you take into consideration the 
 employment of M. de Soubize as the King's General for his wars 
 towards the Indies. 
 
 1626, April 14. Copy of His Majesty's letter to the Lady Hatton, 
 touching a difference heretofore grown between her and Frances 
 Duchess Dowager of Richmond and Lennox concerning a house in 
 Holborn and the gardens and grounds thereunto belonging, awarding 
 that Lady Hatton pay 4,000/. to the Duchess. 
 
 1626, April 16. Copy of " Lord Treasurer's warrant to Mr. Attorney 
 to draw a book for [Roger Glover's and Richard] Bond's pensions to 
 be paid out of the Court of Wards." (The indorsement by Sir J. Coke.) 
 Those pensions were first charged on a pension granted to William, 
 Earl of Salisbury, out of the customs of velvets, satins, taffetas. &c. 
 
 1626, April 18. Hatton House. Lady Elizabeth Hatton (Coke) to 
 the King. 
 
 May it please your Majesty. By Mr. Secretary Coke I made humble 
 suit to speak to your Majesty, but sith your Majesty is pleased to direct 
 me the way obedience is better than sacrifice. A treaty I confess there 
 was between the Duchess of Richmond by honourable persons and 
 myself for the repurchasing of Hatton house, but far from a bargain. 
 May it please your Majesty, I humbly decline the order made by the 
 Lords Referees, and beseech your Majesty to refer her Grace's cause 
 and mine to your Majesty's laws or courts of equity, notwithstanding 
 the overmatching advantage her Grace hath in purse, in friends, and in 
 favour of the times over my misfortunes. Neither can the distance 
 between the Duchess of Richmond and the Lady Elizabeth Hatton be 
 so great that scorn should be so easily passed over. My birth and 
 fortunes forbid it as being in birth not inferior to her Grace, her lather 
 being a noble Viscount and my good father no unworthy Earl. Neither 
 were my ancestors demeritors in this State and Commonwealth. If her 
 Grace hold herself too great a loser by my taking the forfeiture of my 
 house, your Majesty will be pleased to command the return of it again 
 unto her Grace's hands, I receiving satisfaction for the time past, 
 though thereby I shall be a great loser by the disbursing many hundreds 
 to finish her new begun works. The four thousand pounds mentioned 
 in your Majesty's letters I am so far from that ability to satisfy us both 
 my lands and friends are engaged for my ordinary sustenance, neither 
 having any maintenance from my husband Sir Edward Coke nor any part 
 of my jointure from Sir William Hatton, and I was no daughter and 
 heir. I cannot deny her Grace's costs in walls and walks more suitable 
 to her greatness than my private life and small estate, which rather 
 needs the revenue which those grounds formerly yielded for my support 
 than to be put to so much yearly expense as they now require. So as 
 (Dread Sovereign) 1 must conclude with this my humble and earnest 
 suit that the necessities of my fortune may clear your Majesty from 
 such thoughts as may be too heavy for me to bear. 
 
 1626, April 22. Portsmouth Dock. Matthew Brooke to Sir .John 
 Coke, Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 The 105 parcels of goods winch hath lien so long in my charge are 
 appraised, they rising very basely in quality and meanly in value to
 
 268 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 what expected. A great part of them being the worst and slightest 
 stuffs that are made and not for this country's use except for the worser 
 sort of servants and children which were reported by the Scotchman 
 Watson to be rich goods. Mr. Stockdale left me an order from the 
 Duke's grace to keep these goods safely until his Grace's pleasure were 
 further signified to me. I give you information before the goods go hence. 
 
 1628, April 23. A paper printed at Enchuysen 1620 indorsed by Sir 
 John Coke : " A list of the ordinary allowances of men and wages in the 
 ships of Avar of the States, taken in the French ship St. Esprit. 
 
 1626, April 26. Aboard the Great Neptune at Harwich. Captain 
 Edward Gyles to Sir John Coke Knt. Principal Secretary of State at 
 the Court. 
 
 A Dunkirker bound for St. Lucar going about Scotland taken by the 
 Hector and the Allathia (Alethea) returning from the waftage of 
 the fishermen to the Isles of Scotland. 
 
 1626, May 8. Aboard the Adventure at Harwich. Captain 
 George Alleyne to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Has committed the master of his ship to the custody of the Mayor, 
 till the Commissioners of the Navy dispose of him. 
 
 1626, May 8. Westminster. William Boswell to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty, at Court. 
 
 Taking occasion to look into some memorials touching affairs hereto- 
 fore between England and France I find certain original letters whereby 
 appear how Lud. 12, the French King, though an earnest suitor and indul- 
 gent husband, entreated the English servants of his most worthy Queen 
 the Lady Marie, daughter of our Henry 7, immediately after their mar- 
 riage at Abbeville. The copies thereof I take leave to send your honour 
 herewith. 
 
 [Inclosures.] 
 
 To the King's grace my kind and loving brother . . . And now 
 am I left part alone in effect for on the morn next after the marriage 
 my chamberlain with all other men servants were discharged and iu 
 likewise my mother Guildford with other my women and maidens, 
 except such as never had experience or knowledge how to advertise or 
 give me counsel in any time of need, which is to be feared more shortly 
 than your Grace thought at time of my departure as my mother Guild- 
 ford can more plainly show your Grace than I can write. ... I 
 marvel much that my Lord of Norfolk would at all times so lightly grant 
 everything at their requests here . . . Would God my Lord of York 
 had come with me in the room of my Lord of Norfolk for then am I 
 sure I should have been left much more at my heart's ease than I am 
 now . . . From Abbeville the 12th day of October. By your loving 
 sister, Mary Queen of France. 
 
 To my loving friend the Archbishop of York. ... As you love the 
 King my brother and me find the means that my mother Guildford may 
 in all haste come hither again for I had as lief lose the winning I shall 
 have in France as to lose her counsel when E shall lack it which is not 
 like to be long. My Lord of Norfolk hath neither dealt best with me 
 nor yet with her at this time. . . . My Lord I pray you give credence 
 to my mother Guildford, in my sorrows she hath delivered me good. 
 Your own while I live, Mary Queen of France. 
 
 1626, May 11. Copy of the Commons Remonstrance delivered to 
 the Lords by Sir Nathaniel llich.
 
 .HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 269 
 
 The Commons Declaration and Impeachment of the Duke of Buck- Coke MS! 
 ingham. 
 
 Enumeration of his titles and offices. Schedule of grants or gifts to 
 his immediate use. 
 
 1627, May 22. Petition to the King of Wm. Knollys Earl of Banbury 
 as to a grant made by King James, of Manors of Whitby Hagborne and 
 Aston Upthorpe and the Rectory of Hagborne. 
 
 Referred to the Lord Treasurer calling unto him Mr. Attorney-General. 
 
 1626, May 23. Cambridge. Doctor Anthony Topham to Sir John 
 Coke, Principal Secretary to the State, at his house in Tottenham. 
 
 It lately pleased the King to take me into his service as Chaplain in 
 Ordinary. Some livings may come to the King's donation, let me 
 entreat your friendly mediations to His Majesty. This is all the reward 
 I expect for my two years pains with the Duke of Lennox. 
 
 1626, May 27. E. Welles to Sir John Coke. 
 
 My patent is passed under the seal. The account of our proceedings 
 for the measuring of ships we have yielded up to the Commissioners. 
 
 1626, May 30. Whitehall. Edward Viscount Conway to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 I am thankful to God that your health is in so good a way of recovery, 
 as to be able to seek and make benefit of good air and exercise. God 
 bless them both to you. I know no extraordinary use to press you 
 there being indeed no wheel to be moved for want of oil. The Treasury 
 empty. The Houses at a stand, besides the adjourning the Upper House 
 not pleased with His Majesty's last answer concerning their members 
 detained. I will make your excuse to His Majesty and the Duke, and 
 offer your presence if it be required, and will not fail to give you know- 
 ledge as there shall be news ; and the Lord give you strength and all con- 
 tentments in yourself and yours your loving friend to serve you. 
 
 1626, June 1. Aboard the Susan and Ellen now riding in Stokes 
 Bay. Captain Christopher Levett to Sir John Coke. 
 Asks for a better ship. 
 
 1626, June 3. Norton. William Whalley to his cousin Sir John 
 Coke at Garlick Hill. 
 
 Subpoenas served. Elizabeth is the name of Lady Cave. Sir W. 
 Russell purchased from Sir Edward Vilhers. 
 
 1626, June 6. Norton. William Whalley to Sir John Coke at 
 Garlick Hill. 
 
 The name of Lady Cave is Susanna, and will be amended in the 
 bill. 
 
 1626, June 9. Edmonton. Thomas Alured to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State and of His Majesty's most Honour 
 able Privy Council at Court. 
 
 I thank you for the favour you did me by your coach, I renew my 
 suit for my brother Jones that you would concur with my Lord of 
 Wimbledon to restore him to his place or dispose him elsewhere. Lastly 
 I present a suit of my Cousin Latymer's who being charged a Edmonton 
 with a light horse is extremely disquieted, that yon would speak .with 
 and procure but two lines of discharge from the Earl of Holland, the 
 Visconnt Wimbledon, Sir John Suckling, Sir Allen Apsley, Sir John 
 Epsley, or any two of them being the Duke's Deputy Lieutenants in 
 Middlesex.
 
 270 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1626, June 10. A surveye then taken of the estate of W m Gore, late 
 of London, Alderman, founde to be as followeth : 
 
 s. d. 
 The good estate then coinen to the executrix 
 
 hands was - 10,302 3 10 
 
 The apprizement of goods taken by the execu- 
 trix did amount to 1,232 10 8 
 The hopefull debts yet to receive with the 
 1,000/. owing by the king and 420/, by S r 
 Robert Heath are - 5,004 
 The doubtfull debts to be compounded for 2,763 8 4 
 The loss already made by composition - 365 6 8 
 The desperate debts that are still parte of the 
 
 Inventorye - 1,026 15 8 
 
 The total of the charge the executrix 
 
 is to account for - - 20,694 5 2 
 
 The estate comen to the executrix hands which is 11,534/. 145. 6d. is 
 thus to be divided by thirds : 
 
 One third for the executrix. s. d. 
 
 One third for the children whereof is paid 
 
 into the Chamber of London - - 3,500 
 
 dewe to be paid into the Chamber or to 
 
 Mr. Jarmyn - - - - 344 18 2 
 
 3,844 18 2 
 
 One third for the testator whereof is paid for 
 funerall charges and legacyes as per the 
 particular- - 1,170 9 11 
 
 rests in the executrix hands to paye 
 legacyes withall - 2,674 8 3 
 
 3,844 18 2 
 
 The testator's children named as having portions of his estate are 
 Gerard Gore, William Gore, Mrs. Jarmyn, An Gore, Eobert Gore, 
 Benjamin Gore, Joan Gore. A sum of 980/. had been lent by the 
 executrix in smaller sums to the parish of St. James ; to Abraham 
 Hunsdon, to Holditche, to Mr. Beste the Attorney, to Mr. Creech, to 
 Nicholas Hearne, to S v Percivall Harte,and to Thomas Gore and others. 
 Among the hopefull debtors are the Lord Vise 1 Falkeland, Mr. Wil- 
 liams and others, the Lord Wentworth and others, Sir John Catcher and 
 others, George Noades, Mr. Woorsopp, Mr. Whittington, the Chamber 
 of London, John Holloway, Mr. Walthall, Thomas Addams, John 
 Hanckin, S r Robert Heath and others, Humphry Baker, Christopher 
 Nicholls, Edmund Travis, and Sir Bichard Grosvenor and others. 
 
 1626, June 11, Kal. Cambridge. Edward Fraunces to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Dominus Doctor Richardson magnificus studiorum meorum Maecenas 
 iniquis fatis abreptus fuit. Domini Doctoris Mange Praefecti nostri 
 clientele me commendare digneris. 
 
 1626, June 12. Nicholas Blake, Mayor of Plymouth, to Sir John 
 Coke.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION, 271 
 
 Letters be come to my hand directed to Mr. Adrian Anthony con- 
 cerning some business of intelligence which he is employed in for the 
 Court of Spain. News is none but mortality and want of money. 
 
 1626, June 16. Nicholas Felton, Bishop of Ely, to Sir John Coke. 
 I now suppose I shall effect it, being resolved out of my own respects 
 to do your kinsman that favour which you have desired. 
 
 1626, June 17. Aldersgate. Sir Edwin Sandys, M.P. for Penryn, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries to His 
 Majesty. 
 
 I send you a copy of the Report from the Committee by some 
 excepted against and so recommitted,, The place excepted against I have 
 noted in the margin. The Committee never met again as conceiving 
 many of them that the exceptors had some other end than the 
 reforming of the writing or proceeding with the fast. It was the 
 general desire that the fast might not be weekly but either monthly or 
 once for all. And the reason was that frequency bred disreputation. 
 But this was not inserted in the writing as being thought fitter to be 
 left to His Majesty's wisdom. 
 
 1626, June 17. Nicholas Felton, Bishop of Ely, to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty and one of His 
 Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 The business concerns the Bishop of Bristol my very loving friend ; 
 of whom because I have credibly heard that it was the earnest and 
 dying wish of the late Bishop of Exeter now with God that of all 
 other men he might succeed him in that place, I am bold so far 
 against my usual modesty to be incivil as in his behalf humbly to 
 entreat that you would be pleased to afford the business the favour of 
 your mediation. 
 
 1626, June 19. Tottenham. Wilhelm Bedwell to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Doubts not his honour hath heard of the ado last Sabbath about 
 the citizens' preacher. Defends himself against charges and asks 
 reservation of judgment as to the matter. Has denied no man which 
 they have brought. 
 
 1626, June 22. Dover. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries of State and of His Majesty's 
 Most Honourable Privy Council at the Court. 
 
 I missed upon Sunday last in Calais Roads a Spanish Satge only for 
 want of the attendance of those two small vessels appointed on that 
 coast who remain in Dover Pier without effecting anything. 1 went 
 off with my boat and some musketeers to have intercepted her but she 
 was gotten into the haven. 
 
 1626, June 24. Robert Rich, Earl of Warwick, to Mr. Secretary 
 Coke. 
 
 Had pressed a ship to bring from Dort materials for Landgo Fort. 
 The owners at Newcastle hold the ship for another voyage to Eastland 
 Asks an order of the Lords for the ship to be sent on the King's service. 
 
 1626, June 29. Copy of a letter sent to the Lord Chancellor of 
 Scotland (Sir George Hay, Knight) and the rest of His Majesty's 
 Council of that Kingdom as to the levies of 4,600 men by Sir Donald 
 Macky and Sir James Leslie to be transported to Hamburg for Count 
 Mansfeld and the King of Denmark ; and for keeping accounts of 
 expenditure for that purpose of sums of 2,000/. and 600/. to be paid to 
 them by Philip Burlamachi.
 
 272 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1626, June 30. The petition to the King of James Ingram, Esquire, 
 your Majesty's servant, keeper of the Palace of Westminster, and 
 Warden of the Fleet, for his son James Ingram, a Bachelor of Arts, and 
 lately a clerk of the foundation of All Souls College in Oxon, to be by 
 His Highness' letters to the Warden and Fellows of that College chosen 
 at the next election. 
 
 At the Court at Whitehall. 30th June, 1626, His Majesty is graciously 
 pleased that Mr. Secretary Coke prepare a letter ready for His Majesty's 
 signature to the Warden and Fellows of All Souls College in Oxford for 
 electing the petitioner's son into the said fellowship according to the 
 petitioner's humble suit. Sydney Montague. 
 
 1626, June . Captain Thomas Chamberlayne to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State and one of 
 the most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 May it please your good honour to take my propositions for Ireland 
 into your serious wise consideration and to move His Majesty for my 
 present despatch in the same manner as Mr. Secretary Morton left it, 
 which I have inserted in my petition. I shall do your honour some 
 service, that is your honour may have 2,000Z. per annum out of it when 
 it is settled by the sale of the corn, and your honour need never to be 
 seen in it, so I may be the Chief Commissary His Majesty having at 
 this present great occasions for money. It it stand with your honour- 
 able approbation to procure me the marking of linens I will give your 
 honour 100/. and rest ever most bounden your honour's true and faithful 
 servant. I insist upon these three heads for the foundation of my letters 
 patent. The first to take off the quartering of the soldiers, the second 
 to let it pass as a subsidy, the third that the 13th (?) the recusants of 
 Ireland give for not going to Church every Sunday in the year shall be 
 taken off to this purpose I humbly entreat your honourable favour to 
 receive His Majesty's present answer for which I shall ever pray for 
 your long life and happiness. 
 
 1626, June . Ledbury. Doctor John Hoskius to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Of your health I had notice of late by Mr. Rudale to my great comfort. 
 God hath no doubt reserved your honour for more faithful service to 
 the King and kingdom for the comfort of his Church that you may 
 countenance and further honest orthodox men. 
 
 1626. " Popish books seized at Newcastle, 1626, June." (Endorsed 
 by Sir J. Coke.) 
 
 "A note of certain books taken from a Dutchman coming from Calais 
 the first day of April, Anno Domini, 1626, per me Richard Greenhough, 
 Deputy Waiter unto the Farmer of His Majesty's Customs in general in 
 the port of Newcastle upon Tyne." 
 
 Names of books, and the persons to whom they were addressed. 
 "Number of books 213." 
 
 1626, July 2. H. Manchester, E. Conway, J. Coke. 
 Order of the Lords for the examination by the Lord Chief Justice 
 of Thomas Newton, arrested as a seminary priest, now in Newgate. 
 
 1626, July 2. Draft by Sir John Coke " My letter to the Lord 
 Brooke." 
 
 Your Lordship will not be unwilling in your recess and quiet to 
 understand what course we hold and by what compass we sail. We 
 found in the City the same spirit of interruption which misled us in
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 273 
 
 parliament. The impression that was made by the Lords of their 
 unsatisf action in the ill carriage of the trust reposed in the Mayor and 
 Aldermen was a good and effectual means to draw them really to give 
 example to the rest ; which they have well performed to His Majesty's 
 good satisfaction twenty of them having lent a thousand pounds a man. 
 The sum already raised will enable us to set out the fleet for the 
 coast of Spain, His Majesty resolving to take no violent or extra- 
 ordinary way to levy money, but in a common danger to rely upon a 
 common care and affection that all men must have that will not be 
 guilty of abandoning their religion, prince, and country to tbe enemy's 
 power. We shall do all we can and must leave the success to the good 
 pleasure of Almighty God, to whom on Wednesday next at the Court 
 and in the City we apply ourselves by fasting and prayers, as a month 
 after will be done through the rest of the kingdom as the proclamation 
 will declare. No less care is taken for settling the revenue and charges 
 of the Crown. To which end yesterday a committee was directed by 
 His Majesty sitting himself in Council and alone nominating all the 
 Commissioners, and setting down all the heads which are to be con- 
 sidered of. The Commissioners are the Lord Treasurer, Chancellor 
 of the Exchequer, Chancellor of the Duchy, and myself; and our 
 associates are Sir F. Goston, Sir Walter and Sir Robert Pye, Sir 
 
 Thomas Savage, and Sir John Savile, and we are to consider of such 
 retrenchments as may lessen His Majesty's charge and of such emolu- 
 ments as may increase his revenue. An order is drawn to prohibit all 
 suits for two years which may cast any charge or take any part from 
 His Majesty's revenue. And thereby all men are prohibited to im- 
 portune move or solicit any suits or to present bills or grants for His 
 Majesty's signature save only the Secretaries and Masters of Requests. 
 And all men are prohibited to haunt the back stairs, or the Chambers 
 of other men at Court, about any supply. So your Lordship seeth how 
 His Majesty closeth his own hands and stoppeth all the door of largess 
 and resolveth to husband his crown after the precedent of the best and 
 most approved times. 
 
 162G, July 7. The Downs. Sir Henry Palmer to His Grace the 
 Duke of Buckingham, Lord High Admiral of England. 
 
 [Endorsement by the Duke's Secretary.] R. 8th July 1626. 
 
 Sir Henry Palmer, that the ships in the narrow seas are out of 
 victuals and in such want that he can no longer keep the men from 
 mutiny. 
 
 [Further endorsement, though not in the letter of Sir H. Palmer.] 
 
 That the Turks now at St. Ives may be removed to Launceston 
 Prison where they may be safer from escape and from leaving the 
 coast. 
 
 1626, July 8. The Examination of Thomas Newlon, taken the 8th 
 of July 1626. 
 
 * he hath been many a years a prisoner in the Marshalsea upon 
 command of the Lords * and was first restrained for denying to take 
 the oath of allegiance * he was apprehended in one Mistress Parry's 
 house in Clerkenwell upon Sunday last, who was near of kin to his late 
 wife. 
 
 Ran : Crewe. Tho : Newton. 
 
 1626, July 8. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke : " Ships in Thems." A view 
 of such ships that came into the River of Thames since tlie 22nd June 
 to the 8th Jvdy. Sixteen ships of from 120 to 250 tons, and from 10 to 
 24 " pieces " each. 
 
 U 249 G3. s
 
 274 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1626, July 8, Ashe. John Drake to Sir John Coke, Knight, one 
 of the Principal Secretaries to the King's Majesty. 
 
 This bearer Burgess hears there is a messenger coming for him 
 touching a difference that one Tanner his neighbour hath complained 
 him at the Council Board whereby a warrant is sent for him. There 
 hath been a great deal of spleen and malice between them, both being of 
 one trade to carry bone lace for London. When His Majesty was here 
 in the country I granted out warrants for horses for the carrying of 
 His Majesty's train towards Plymouth. Burgess' horse was brought 
 by Tanner being Constable to my house where the Duke lay, and the 
 horse not thought fitting was by Mr. Grimes, Master of my Lords 
 Horse, discharged from the service, and afterwards the said Tanner 
 look the said horse again. 
 
 1626, July 12. John Barker, Mayor, and Aldermen of Bristol, to the 
 Lords of the Council. 
 
 About sending of ships from thence to Portsmouth, and powder to be 
 supplied to them. 
 
 1626, July 13, Maidstone. The Justices of Kent to the Loids of the 
 Council. 
 
 Upon the receipt of your letters of the last of June directed to the 
 Justices of Kent and Sussex near unto the Cinque Ports and members 
 thereof, some of us the Justices of the Peace within the county of Kent 
 assembled at Canterbury the 11th of this month, where divers of the 
 mayors of the ports and some deputies met us ; and upon conference 
 had touching the setting forth the four ships in the said letters men- 
 tioned it was agreed on all parts to be contrary to any former precedents 
 in that kind that this county should join in any charge with another 
 county or the ports. And therefore upon further conference at the 
 assizes at Maidstone for the same consideration, we do humbly pray 
 your Lordships not to require any such new charge from this county, 
 which hath of late by several occasions been much charged, further 
 intimating to your Lordships that if the proportion were agreed on we 
 do not conceive that we are fully authorised to do what is required, if 
 the county should refuse. Thus much in our duties we thought fit to 
 signify unto your Lordships being ready to do what shall be best for 
 his Majesty's service. 
 
 (Signed) .Nicolas Tufton. John Rivers. 
 
 Anthony Dering. Kob. Darell. 
 
 Norton Knatchbull. John Honywood. 
 
 Edw. Gisbourne. Tho. Paramor. 
 
 Tho. Seyliard. Ed. Boys. 
 
 Edward Hales. 
 
 1626, July 18. Portsmouth. Den. Flemyng and Josua Downinge 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty at Court 
 or elsewhere. 
 
 We have induced men of the Red Lion and the Convertine to 
 accept the old pay until the 24th of April. This morning very early 
 there came on shore into the dockyard the greatest part of all the 
 ordinary seamen in the fleet utterly refusing to receive any pay at all 
 except they might have the full of their wages both old and new, other- 
 wise they must take their course for London and petition His Majesty. 
 They presently cried " away, away," and so are gone on towards London 
 to the number of about 500, neither could we possibly discover the 
 leaders of that disorder, because they generally answered " one and all, 
 one and all." We advertise the Deputy Lieutenants of the shire to 
 intercept their journey.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 275 
 
 1626, July 15. Mevy. Sir George Chtidleigh, Francis Drake, and 
 William Strode, Commissioners of Devon, to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries at Court. 
 
 Much and often we have written to the body of the Council repre- 
 senting our desperate case to them as to our appointed physicians, but 
 cannot receive from them so much as a cordial answer. By these 
 inclosed we do expire our last gasps of hope, whereby you may expect 
 the certain ruin of this country to approach, being possest at one time 
 with the cold fear of foreign enemies, the burning heat of ihe devouring 
 pestilence, and the strong convulsions of poverty and the unsatisfied 
 soldier, and to these your own great judgment will add (as tho worst of 
 evil signs) an apparent distraction in the head by our rude and passionate 
 letters. 
 
 1626, July 16. George Digbie and others, Governor and Company 
 for Gwiney and Binney (Guinea and Benin ?) to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Ask for two ships for prevention of danger, and to prosecute a hope- 
 ful discovery. 
 
 1626, July 16. William Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The two ships fit for the service desired for the adventurers to Gynne 
 and Binne (Guinea and Benin ?) are the St. Claud and the St. 
 Peter resting to be disposed of by my Lord Admiral. 
 
 1626, July 18. London. Captain Hen. Mason to Sir J.Coke. 
 Being an officer of the victuals asks to see Sir J. Coke on a business 
 of marine victualling. 
 
 1626, July 19. William Doughty, Mayor, and Thomas Baker, John 
 Wallis, Thomas Soame, Edward Hargate, Gregory Gurnall, Thomas 
 Griinall, William Cooke, Thomas Vyner, Joshua Greene, John 
 Percevall, of Kings Lynn, to the Lords and others of His Majesty's 
 most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Stating the inability of their port and the ports of Wells and Burn- 
 ham for the setting forth of two ships of war, and the hastening them 
 away to the rendezvous at the Downs, finding the great decay of their 
 trade, which being small and at the best not able to undergo in these 
 towns and the members of this port so great a burthen ; and the 
 estates of the people upon the coast towns are generally through losses 
 sustained by the enemies and other casualties exceedingly impoverished. 
 
 1626, July 20. Bennington. Henry Moore to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary of State to the King's most excellent Majesty, at bis 
 lodging in Whitehall. 
 
 " Thanks for his living." Quotes Virgil, " Deus nobis haec otia fecit," 
 " namque erit ille mihi semper Deus." Divine Seneca. <; Nemo pro- 
 pius ad Deum accedit (mam qui hominibus salutem dat et beneficium." 
 
 1626, July 24. Ban. Mainwaringe, Mayor, William Derby, Godfrey 
 Wynne, John Brereton, and twelve others of Chester, to the Lords and 
 others of His Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 No vessels of strength to carry ordnance, but only such weak and 
 slender barques as serve only to transport passengers, coals, and other 
 commodities to Ireland, and to import cattle and merchandizes thence 
 hither. The course of traffic iind merchandize is here at such a stand 
 that the merchants do freight and hire out Scottish barques and others 
 which import as much wines and other goods as their ports will vent 
 and take off their hands. There being lately an imprest of 50 mariners 
 taken out of this port a competent number of fitting mariners are not 
 now to be had. 
 
 s 2
 
 276 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokbMSS. 1626j j uly 24. William Plumleigh Mayor of Dartmouth to the 
 
 Lords and others of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Touching the charge of setting forth (with Totnes) those ships which 
 will amount to 3,000/. 
 
 1626, July 24. Tower Street. Sir William Eussell to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Asks that the Lord Treasurer and the Chancellor of the Exchequer 
 may confer as to providing money to pay the Fleet 6,000/. 
 
 1626, July 27. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke. 
 Asks for Sir John Zouch employment in the King's wars, his mind is 
 rather to Ireland. 
 
 1626, July 27. Truro. Arthur Harris, Jo. Trefusis, Richard Erisey, 
 and Richard Trevanyon to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Report their proceedings in procuring a ship of 200 tons to be 
 manned and victualled by towns in Cornwall. 
 
 1626, July 28. Llanhidrock. Charles Lord Lambert to Sir John 
 Coke, one of His Majesty's Secretaries of State at the Court. 
 
 I have attended long in expectancy of what forces should be sent into 
 Ireland for the defence of that kingdom where both my fortunes and 
 honours lie, and where my father hath not the worst deserved of His 
 Majesty by his good service. It doth utterly discourage me to see men 
 preferred before me that have no estates and fortunes in that kingdom, 
 and I cannot for shame go into my country until His Majesty hath 
 honoured me with some command. 
 
 1626, July 28. Crediton near Exeter. Jo. Northcote, Thomas 
 Clifford, Edward Cotton, Ri. Waltham, and Ric. Reynell, Justices, 
 to the Lords of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 We have conferred with the Mayor and Magistrates of the City 
 of Exeter concerning the manning and victualling of two ships. They 
 make several excuses of their inability, some by reason of the embargo 
 in Spain and stay of their goods in France, some by reason of the 
 plague, some by reason of the soldiers billeted here very burthensome 
 unto them, some by reason their children and near friends are in 
 captivity under the Turks. 
 
 1626, July 28. Exeter. Thomas Walker (Mayor), Thomas Cross- 
 inge, Walter Borough, Ignatius Jurdain, John Modyford (Aldermen) to 
 the Lords of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 About the two ships, to the like effect as the letter from the 
 Justices. 
 
 1626, July 29. Exeter. Ew. Seymour, William Strode, Francis 
 Glanvill, Ric. Waltham, Thos. Wyes, Edward Giles, J. Drake, Lewes 
 Pollarde, Thomas Clifford, Edward Cotton, Ric. Reynell, John Bamp- 
 fylde, and Jo. Northcote, Commissioners at Plymouth about the Army 
 to the Lords of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 [Endorsed by Sir J. Coke.] " That they have not performed what 
 was required for defence of the country for the shortness of time, for 
 harvest and for the plague much dispersed, and for the charge and 
 danger of the army which they desire to have removed. That they 
 send Sir George Chudleigh to declare their fearful and perishing 
 condition." 
 
 1626, July 29. Edward Castle, Mayor of Truio, to the Lords of 
 His Majesty's Privy Council.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 277 
 
 Receipt of their Lordships' letter of 30th June to him and the 
 officers of the sea towns in this part of Cornwall wherein is required 
 the setting for His Majesty's service of a ship of 200 tons with 12 pieees 
 of ordnance manned with 120 men and victualled for three months. 
 The chief officers of the ports and sea towns and the county justices 
 met on the 26th. The latter would only undertake 100/., being one- 
 twelfth of the whole charge, but the sea towns are poor and the country 
 should bear the eleven twelfths. Asks their Lordships to give a 
 warrant that the charge may be raised on the whole county. 
 
 1626, August 4. Copy of " Mr. Robert Tippers and John Gason's 
 offers to the Lord Commissioners of the King's Revenue for the draining 
 of the Fens and other low grounds surrounded with fresh and salt 
 waters." 
 
 The places where they intend to make their sayes are these or some 
 of them. 
 
 East 
 Fen. 
 West 
 Fen. 
 
 Com. 
 Lin- 
 coln. 
 
 Part of the 
 
 Wash 
 Spalding 
 Deeping 
 Crowland 
 Southlake. 
 
 Com. 
 Lin- 
 coln. 
 
 Dowes- 
 
 dale 
 Thorney 
 Peter- 
 borough 
 Fens. 
 
 Com. 
 North- 
 
 Part of the 
 
 Isle of Ely 
 
 which is 
 
 Donning- 
 
 ton. 
 
 Com. 
 Cam- 
 bridge. 
 
 Ramsey 
 Whittle- 
 sey. 
 
 Com. 
 Hunt" 
 
 Approved by the Commissioners. 
 
 Marlborough. G. Buckingham. 
 
 Tho. Savage. J. Coke. 
 
 Rich. Weston. Hum. May. 
 
 Walter Pye. Robert Pye. 
 
 Rich. Sutton. 
 
 1626, August 3. William Towerson and others to the Duke of 
 Buckingham. 
 
 Report of Commissioners to examine Beef, Pork, Biscuits, Peas, &c. 
 
 1626, August 4. Sir John Bingley to Sir Foulke Grevill, Knight 
 Chancellor and Under Treasurer of His Majesty's Exchequer and of 
 his Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Recommends persons for vacant offices of a Teller and of Controller 
 of the Pipe. Sir Roger Wilbraham died of three days sickness. 
 
 1626, August 7. William Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 Proceedings of the Commissioners of the Navy as to victuals for the 
 Fleet. 
 
 1626, August 7. Portsmouth. Sir John Watts to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Information from the captains in the fleet here that there wanteth a 
 thousand seamen. There must be some sudden and strict course taken 
 for a new press. Here wanteth a third part of victual. The insolent 
 misdemeanours of the seamen is pacified, but we want power to punish 
 or suppress daily disorders that falleth amongst them, some being of the 
 better sort. 
 
 1626, August 11. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland, Lord Deputy 
 of Ireland, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Information of [blank] a merchant who came from Croswick in 
 Brittany. He relates his meeting with an old Jesuit somewhat inclined 
 to grossness of a sanguine complexion but a sour countenance, his habit 
 of the Spanish fashion, but cloak, doublet, and hose being of a sad mixed 
 coloured cloth, something inclining to green, an Irishman who in Nantes 
 was in company with one Bourke an Irishman and a Jesuit newly come
 
 278 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 forth of Spain who being asked by a Capuchin Friar related his coming 
 forth of Portugal from the Irish College of Jesuits through Biscay by 
 land. He seemed to speak very confidently that there is no intention of 
 invading our King's dominions this year, because upon his knowledge 
 the Spaniard is in exceeding want both of soldiers and mariners. But 
 if the "West India fleet conie safe nome then it is thought they will 
 provide the next year to fall upon the west of Ireland. Bourke is 
 apparelled like the old Jesuits, is a young man about 30, and was going 
 to St. Malo and so to Flanders, there to take orders at the hands of one 
 of the titulary Archbishops of Ireland who is now there. The in- 
 formant came from Rochelle. In another barque thence bound for 
 Londonderry was another young man who had lived divers years a 
 student in France, and was supposed to be a priest, kinsman to Mr. Lor- 
 rentan, a French merchant, who lives in Londonderry. 
 
 1626, August 11. New College, Oxford. Doctor Robert Pinck to 
 Master Secretary Coke. 
 
 In recommendation of Robert Ryves, a Fellow of the College and 
 Bachelor of the Civil Law. 
 
 1626, August 15. His Majesty's Castle of Dublin. Henry Cary, 
 Viscount Falkland, Lord Deputy of Ireland, to the Lords of His 
 Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Intelligences from east and west of the preparations at Cadiz and 
 other ports and towns in Spain. Ths danger is not in any whit re- 
 moved by any treaty of peace for so in '88 a treaty was embraced and 
 maintained until the Invincible Armada was under sail and then 
 dissolved. I know it would ill become me being the least of a 
 thousand sitting here remote in the darkness of ignorance to represent 
 these things unto your Lordships considerations. But that my charge 
 is a kingdom and I cannot discharge my duty by my silence. Your 
 Lordships utter abandoning all care of us, might make me confident you 
 believe there is no danger near us else you would not make us depend 
 altogether upon your directions and give us none, detain from us all 
 possible means to do our duties and abridge our authorities, but would 
 if there Avere any peril supply the one and restore the other. Our 
 letters would not be so hardly gotten to he read and so utterly left 
 unanswered as they are if any such danger were believed. If this 
 moves not your Lordships, as I suppose not it will, yet this must 
 justify me another day. 
 
 1G26, August 15. Pendennis. Captain Bonython to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His most Excellent Majesty at 
 Court. 
 
 There are divers Turkish men-of-war upon these coasts. His kinsman 
 dwelling near the Lizard has brought into Helford a ship laden with 
 Rochelle salt driving as if weakly manned. When he boarded he 
 found no man in her, and her chests broken up and rifled. The 
 Turks seen the evening before may have taken the men and such 
 pillage as they thought fit. She with her cargo may be worth 300/. 
 Asks that his kinsman and others who saved the ship may be remem- 
 bered by the Lord Admiral his Grace, and likewise himself may be 
 allotted something out of this casualty. He has not one piece of 
 ordnance mounted. The Turks and Dunkirkers look upon us daily. 
 
 1626, August 16. Sir J. Wolstenholme, Sir Allen Apsley, Sir W. 
 Russell, W. Burrell, Den. Flemyng, Commissioners of the Navy, to Sir 
 John Coke.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 279 
 
 His Majesty now payeth in wages victuals and tonnage after the 
 rate of above 4,000/. a month, which is more than forty for one, and 
 the debt still remaineth. This is so exorbitant and unsufferable a 
 charge and as a canker eats so deep into His Majesty's Exchequer as 
 is not meet to be endured. 
 
 1626, August 18. Pendennis Castle. Captain John Bonython to 
 Sir Charles Coke. 
 
 A ship found at sea without a man on board. The finders claim 
 half, but the whole is said to belong to the Lord Admiral. 
 
 1626, August 18. "Estimates." "Arrearages due to the office of 
 the Ordnance " warranted by privy seal. 
 
 1. Supply to the forts of Gravesend, West Tilbury, Upnor Castle 
 and the Sconces adjoining, with His Majesty's ships in Harbour. 
 
 2. To set forth the Adventure and Desire, two of His Majesty's 
 ships. 
 
 3. For 100 demi culverins and sakers of cast iron with a proportion 
 of carriages. 
 
 4. More for a parcel of double crossbar shot and supplies to the Happy 
 Entrance and Mary Rose. 
 
 5. For munition to the Holy Island, Seven Stars, Minikin, 
 Prosperous, and Charles. 
 
 6. Preparation of the Ordnance houses, cranes, &c, now ready to 
 drop. 
 
 7. Halberds for the guard and warders. 
 
 8. Field carriages and furniture for the mounting of His Majesty's 
 Ordnance. 
 
 The sum is 12,872/. 3a-. lid. 
 
 1626, August 20. Deptford. E. Welles to Sir John Coke. 
 Recommends Boatswain Dawes for service at Deptford. 
 
 1626, August 20. A List of the ships appointed to the Seas under 
 command of the Lord Willoughby, Admiral, Lord Denbigh, Vice Admiral, 
 Captain Penington, Vice. Admiral, and the Captains. 
 
 6 King's ships, 10 Merchants ships, 15 Newcastle ships, their men 
 and tonnage. 
 
 1626, August 24. Totnes. Nicholas Wise, Mayor, to the Lords of 
 His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 " About the ships to be set, forth" The inhabitants allege their disabili- 
 ties by reason of the grievance they daily suffer and which I have 
 related in my former letters, the sickness of the pestilence hath environed 
 them and divers householders have been much impoverished by billeting 
 the soldiers. 
 
 1626, August 23. Dartmouth. Will. Plumleigh, Rob. Follett, And. 
 Moysey, Tho. Spur way, John Geoffrey, Tho. Abraham, W m Kent, to 
 the Lords and others of His Majestys most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 "About the shipping." We beseech you to commiserate and tender 
 the weak and poor estates of the inhabitants for the reasons before 
 alleged, also that by means of the sickness and the discrying of the 
 tardecus by His Majesty's late proclamation which was the coin which 
 of late hath been most passable in their parts, the country is in such 
 want of money that they will not pay their debts but restrain them- 
 selves from their wonted commerce. The duty now required is more than 
 enable the charge of that in '88. The inhabitants of the inland who are 
 alike interested in the common cause did bear at least three parts of the
 
 280 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 burthen. This year hath been chargeable to us in divers respects, in 
 erecting a house for receiving of sick soldiers and mariners and in 
 building fortifications and for better fortifying this port. These are not 
 vain excuses. 
 
 1(526, August 25. Portsmouth Dock. Matthew Brooke to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Is obliged to send the boatswains and carpenters own notes which be 
 very rude. Having mustered all the ships, I find there will want for the 
 fleet near 500 men. If the persons be not called to account for the over- 
 plus of the victuals the King will lose 20/. or 30/. a day. Lord Denbigh, 
 Sir Allen Apsley, Captain Penington, and Sir John Hippesley are here. 
 
 1626, August 27. Chatham. Josua Downynge to Sir John Coke. 
 Eecommends T. Cooke for boatswain's place in Deptford Yard. 
 
 1626, August 28. John Jones to John Jones. " You shall find 
 him at Mr. Lusher's, a pothecary, in Fetter Lane, London." 
 
 Asks whether 20/. has been paid to Monsieur Fontaine, and that out 
 of another 20/. promised 8/. may be paid to the bearer. 
 
 " Received the sum of this bill of 8/. pounds, Joseph Taylor." 
 
 1626, August 30. Ashe. John Drake to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of the Principal Secretaries of State to the King's most excellent 
 Majesty. 
 
 Three Low Country sbips have been taken by Captain Cross and 
 brought in at Exmouth, two from Amsterdam, and have the pass of 
 the Prince of Orange and another pass from the town of Amsterdam, 
 the other has the pass of the Prince of Orange and another from the 
 town of Rotterdam. They had on board colours of Hamburg, and bills 
 of lading for Teneriffe and Ferrol. One skipper confessed the goods 
 were Spanish. You may know that the Low Countrymen are now 
 loaders for the Spaniard, and that the Prince of Orange's pass goes 
 current for Spanish goods. 
 
 1626, August 31. Carlisle. Sir Gecrge Dalscom to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary of State to his Majesty, at the Court. 
 
 We have prevailed with our country to give a benevolence to the 
 value of four subsidies. For this our petition unto his Majesty I crave 
 your honourable favour, for it doth much import me in my particular 
 out of the trust which my country doth impose in me that it may be 
 eased of these great burthens. 
 
 1626, August 31. Palace of Westminster. His Majesty King Charles 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of our Principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 We intended to have addressed our letters of Privy Seal to you 
 amongst others of our Privy Council for some present supply of money 
 by way of loan, but observing that upon our letters lately directed to 
 the justices of peace in our several counties, thek forwardness is 
 beginning and first assessing themselves hath drawn many of our 
 subjects to a more free and liberal contribution. We have thought fit 
 to change the course intended by Privy Seals, and to propose unto you 
 the other of free gift, expecting the like argument or rather more of 
 good affection from our Privy Council and particularly from yourself, 
 and that with such alacrity as may make it not only the more accept- 
 able unto us but encourage other people to follow your good example. 
 This free gift we assure you on the word of a king shall be wholly 
 employed in the common defence of the kingdom, and not to any other 
 use whatsoever.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 281 
 
 1626, September 1. The abstract of the Recusants' lands and goods 
 found in the county of Durham. " Upon the strict proceedings of the 
 Comm above 100 persons have conformed themselves*." (Note by Sir 
 J. Coke.) 
 
 1626, September 2. Indorsement by Sir J. Coke. u Petition pre- 
 sented by the Ambassador of Denmark." 
 
 Svend Anderson, Olaf Olson, Eric Kieltson, et Olaf Strangeson 
 sujets du Roi de Danemark en la ville de Marstrand en Norvege se 
 plaignent du tort que leur a fait PAmiral des navires du Roi de la 
 Grande Bretagne qui sont sur PElbe. lis sont venus avec leurs navires 
 charges d'ais, planches, poutres, solives et soliveaux, pour savoir s'il 
 leur etait permis d'aller en Espagne. Mais encore que l'Ambassadeur 
 du Roi de la Grande Bretagne Monsieur Anstreter et le Gouverneur de 
 Holstein de la part du Roi de Danemark ayent ecrit an dit Amiral de 
 les relacher avec leurs navires, non obstant il les a fait amener ici avec 
 leurs dits navires a leur grande depense et perte. lis supplieut de les 
 faire mettre en liberte et davautage de commander a l'Amiral de leur 
 recompeuser la grande perte et frais qui'i leur a fait faire. 
 
 1626, September 7. Marcle. John Kyrle to Sir John Coke. 
 Recommeding the bearer for sea service. For the improvement of 
 his Majesty's ironworks that care you had of me took not effect. 
 
 1626, September 14. Portsmouth. Sir George Chiidleigh to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of his Majesty's Principal Secretaries at Whitehall, 
 or elsewhere. 
 
 This scribbled paper requiring a new sheet to fold it up draws this 
 short addition after it. Some part of my brother's discontent I find to 
 rise from his (as he thinks) misplacing in the squadron of this fleet. 
 He is the last of all the King's ships, and there hath of late been some 
 alterations of his inferiors to better places. After your Honour hath 
 perused the enclosed to my Lord Conway I beseech you if you think 
 fit to send it to him. 
 
 1626, September 14. Enclosure. Letter of Sir George Chudleigh, 
 from Portsmouth. 
 
 All respects, both public and private, bind me to give your Hcnour an 
 account how I have discharged myself of my late employment about the 
 soldiers in Devon and Cornwall before I begin another. I departed 
 from London on Monday, being the 28th of August, and I arrived at 
 Plympton among the Commissioners on the Thursday morning after. 
 Mentions negligences in the packet carriers. Since the last of August 
 till the 7th of September I spent my time wholly with the Commis- 
 sioners, and with their good helps have set the business of the troops 
 removing in so good a way as I cannot see how any let or hindrance 
 can well fall, but that your Honour shall shortly hear of their orderly 
 march through the country to their appointed places. The clothiers 
 finding a likelihood of slow payment did not fulfil their contract in all 
 points, some wanting their full number of shirts, some of stockings, 
 others of bands, shoes, or hats. After the captains had seen the just 
 and equal course we purposed in the division of the 1,000/. amongst 
 them and the rest of the officers, and all this as it seemed to their ap- 
 probation, there was one warrant which gave them much distaste, and 
 that was the warrant to the constables for the making of the accounts 
 between the soldiers and their billeters, and Ixjtween the officers and 
 their creditors. They were at length pacified so as I hope you shall 
 shortly hear of their quiet passage through the country to their new 
 quarters. Being come to Portsmouth I find your honourable favours
 
 282 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. to be here before me and to have made way for my Lord Willoughby's 
 good respect unto me. My brother wished me at this instant to revive 
 unto your Honour a motion which in part hath been already made unto 
 the Council Board. That if the land forces out of the West attain this 
 coast before the fleet parts from it, it might be very fit for many 
 respects to carry in every ship some of them, either with or without 
 commanders. The reasons are these : 1. The King shall keep them at 
 less charge. 2. They are excellent musketeers and better seamen than 
 the watermen. 3. If in this voyage there should be any opportunity 
 to perform any enterprise on shore with the help of some officers that 
 may be done by these men which otherwise cannot. 4. The regiments 
 assigned to Kent and Sussex are small ; those for Hampshire and 
 Dorsetshire are great and exceed the other by o or 600. The employ- 
 ment of that number thus may make the burthen of the several counties 
 equal. 
 
 1626, September 18. Westminster. Sir Ranulph Crewe, Lord 
 Chief Justice, to Sir Thomas Coventry, Knight, Lord Keeper of the 
 Great Seal of England, 
 
 Mr. Secretary Coke had offered a warrant to the Lords to be signed for 
 the sending away of one Duckett, a condemned man, to the King of 
 Denmark. He was condemned at the assizes at Reading for stealing a 
 horse. Afterwards it being conceived that he was a serviceable man a 
 warrant came to the sheriff to stay execution. I hold it my duty to 
 inform your Lordship that Duckett is a notable and notorious thief, he 
 robbed Lenton and one Tyres. He hath committed a number of 
 robberies in all the countries about London. Moreton, who was 
 executed at Buckingham, and had also committed many robberies com- 
 plained at his death that Duckett was the first man that drew him in to 
 be a robber. They robbed up and down, eight or nine in a company, 
 with pistols, like Robin Hood and his men, which I conceived to be a 
 scandal to the peace of the kingdom, and such of them as come before 
 me shall have justice. I leave mercy to God and the King. If they may 
 take their pleasure of robbing here and then be sent to serve in the wars, 
 I humbly leave the consequence thereof to your Lordship's great 
 judgment. 
 
 1626, September 20. Chatham Dock. Josua Downynge to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Pay of the ordinary behind for three quarters. State of 14 ships now 
 in this river. Good seamen should be pressed to keep the ships. The 
 boatswains and gunners should lie aboard their ships, and keep aboard 
 all day to see the victuals dressed and spent aboard. If you can confirm 
 on me the surveyor's place which Mr. Ailesbury hath by patent, I will 
 allow such composition as your Honor shall think fit. 
 
 1626, September 20. John Drake to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Desires to purchase one of His Majesty's manors in Cornwall, divers 
 of whose tenements are in the possession of Sir John Elliot's father-in- 
 law, who seeketh covertly to purchase them. 
 
 1626, September 20. Trusley. Sir Frances Coke to his brother Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy 
 Council. 
 
 Mr. Eare, the bearer hereof, is the King's tenant of a farm in Edale, 
 which he understands by the proclamation that His Majesty is willing 
 and determined to sell. His desire is that, by your good means, he may 
 be admitted the purchaser. He is a very honest gentleman, hath been 
 a good housekeeper and relieved many, hath children that want their 
 mother, and in these respects may deserve your good opinion and 
 favour.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 283 
 
 1626, September 22. Great Yarmouth. Particulars of " the 
 Assembly, whereby Jeffery Neve was dismissed out of his place of 
 Aldermanship of the Burgh aforesaid," with names of 56 persons 
 present. 
 
 1626, September 25. Cawood Castle. Tobias Eboracensis (Matthew, 
 Archbishop of York) to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary, &c, 
 to the King's most excellent Majesty at the Court. 
 
 I shall use all possible expedition, not only to send eopies of His 
 Majesty's directions to my loving brethren the lords bishops in this 
 proviuce, but also take the like course with the clergy in this my diocese 
 for the due observanee thereof as becometh us all in our most boundeu 
 duties to our gracious and all saving God, and also to our sacred and 
 dread sovereign, tbat the manifold blessings and preservation of this 
 kingdom may still be continued unto us by his pious and prudent 
 government, and that likewise his royal uncle, the King of Denmark, 
 may be strengthened, and enabled to oppose and overcome the tyranny 
 and usurping force of the House of Austria by the omnipotent hand of 
 the Lord of Hosts and Prince of Peace. 
 
 1(526, September 27. Twittenham. Susan Bates and To. Bates 
 ("brother") to Sir John Coke, Knight, Secretary to His Majesty at 
 Whitehall. 
 
 The King being at Littleton this summer Her Grace of Richmond 
 hath renewed her suit for some preferment for me, and gained a second 
 engagement from His Majesty, and of this you may be fully assured if 
 you will confer with my much honoured friend, Endymion Porter. 
 A new occasion presents itself for my good by the death of the Bishop of 
 Winchester, and therefore the predisposition of all places then void, the 
 only remora of my preferment there being removed, put to your helping 
 hand that I may find some place in his princely favour. 
 
 1626, September 30. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's most honourable Privj Council. 
 
 My son William Coke having occasion to repair to the King with his 
 little child, who is sore troubled with the King's evil, and my daughter, 
 his wife, being over tender a mother, not willing to have the child out of 
 her sight, will needs take this troublesome journey in hand to accompany 
 her infant, 1 do earnestly entreat you to lay to your helping hand that 
 they may be discharged out of the town as soon as may be, for if they 
 wait long there both the year time will be very foul, and their charge 
 also will be above that which they may well afford, and their own house, 
 and so many more little ones, will want them at home. 
 
 1626, September 30. Ashton. Sir George Chudleigh to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries, at Court. 
 
 My Lord General, with that part of the fleet which was at Portsmouth, 
 set sail on the 22nd of this September, and the next day were cut short 
 with contrary winds. Torbay was taken as the fittest harbour. Here 
 my brother took occasion out of a little sea sickness and a former dis- 
 temper which .1 had taken with hard riding, to dissuade me from this 
 voyage, this being my first and my body untoward to the sea, he was 
 confident I could not escape death, which he protested he should not 
 endure to see in his ship, and should hardly enjoy himself afterwards. 
 I was loath to hearken to him, having engaged your honour in ji suit to 
 my Lord Duke to make one of the Council of War. I took solemn leave 
 of my Lord General, and hope to obtain your honour's liking also for my 
 stay, I cannot choose but blush to think that I should not answer all 
 points of your expectation.
 
 284 
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokeMSS. 1626, Sept. 30. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke: "John 
 
 for Michas. quarter : " 
 
 For a bible guilt and bound with Spanish 
 
 leather - 
 
 For careage of a truncke from London 
 
 a paire of gloves - 
 
 a paire of stockins ... 
 
 a knife and penknife ... 
 
 incke and quilles - 
 
 lining and dressing his hatt 
 
 footing a paire of stockins 
 
 conserve of roses - 
 
 barly broth at severall times 
 
 horse hire to take the aire 
 
 expenses at my going into Norfolk 
 
 a paire of stockins - 
 
 a paire of gloves - 
 
 mending his suit - 
 
 buttons for mending his goune 
 
 one weekes diett being not well 
 
 a dozen and a halfe of points 
 
 paper this quarter - 
 
 a silver hatband - 
 
 the Armes of Cambridge and Oxford 
 
 a purse and a brush ... 
 
 Fulke's meteors - 
 
 Sleidan's Chron. - 
 
 Diogenes Laertius ... 
 
 Epictetus in Greke and Latin 
 
 to entertain his Sisters ... 
 
 halfe a dozen of napkins ... 
 
 2 paire of Cuffes - 
 
 a deske ----- 
 
 Mirehous, of Martyrs and booke to fast 
 
 making new sieves and mending his black 
 
 Calemancho suit ... 
 
 mending his curtaine rod and a ringe to his 
 
 study dore .... 
 
 3 paire shoes .... 
 
 T. - 7 2 
 
 For candles this quarter 2s. 4d., for washing 
 
 his linnen 5*. Od. ... 
 
 dressing his chamber and making his bed - 
 
 learning to write a month - 
 
 chamber and study rent ... 
 
 commons and firing ... 
 
 16 tasting night suppers - - - 
 
 his subsizer .... 
 
 tuition this Quarter ... 
 
 Coke's accompts 
 s. d. 
 
 12 
 
 3 
 
 2 
 
 5 
 
 2 
 
 8 
 
 1 10 
 
 6 
 
 1 
 
 5 8 
 
 1 6 
 
 10 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 1 4 
 
 3 
 
 8 6 
 
 3 6 
 
 1 
 
 3 
 
 1 
 
 2 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 10 
 
 1 
 6 
 1 6 
 
 3 2 
 
 17 10 
 
 8 
 8 6 
 
 7 4 
 
 4 
 
 6 8 
 
 10 
 
 6 7 10 
 16 
 5 
 10 
 9 10 
 
 7 2 
 
 16 8 10 
 
 
 Rec d of Mr. George Coke - 20 
 
 No signature. 
 
 d. 

 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 285 
 
 1626, September. Draft by Sir J. Coke of answers to Articles 41, Coke mss. 
 42, and 43, of charges against the Lord High Admiral. 
 
 Article 43. For the state of the Navy it is above 30 years since I 
 was first acquainted with it, and it appears by the records of the Navy 
 that the first five years of the there were built ten new ships 
 
 and all the rest repaired according to the propositions made by the 
 Commissioners. So as the state of the Navy at the end of those five 
 years was much better than ever it was in my memory, and exceeded 
 the navies of former times, the greatest of which came short of this in 
 burden above 4,000 tons. And since this Lord Admiral's time there 
 have been built at Chatham two new docks and a great structure of 
 storehouses, and many reparations done at Portsmouth. 
 
 1626, October 2. Thrussington. William Gilbert (cousin) to Sir 
 John Coke, Principal Secretary to the King's Majesty at Whitehall. 
 
 Brown's offer for land. Two other sufficient men would be tenants. 
 The repairing of the church is divided into four parts on Baggrave, 
 Ingersby, Quenby, and Hungerton. The sixth part of every payment 
 to be discharged by the Lady Cave's jointure. Vicar of Hungerton 
 asks the summering of two cows. Little Spinny not set. 
 
 1626, October 3. Lord Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 Asks consideration whether the inclosed project of an ancient acquain- 
 tance may probably be prosecuted for the King's benefit. 
 
 1626, October 4. Ash. John Drake to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Anthony Batt is come up to discharge the monies received for the 
 King and due from the late Lord Bishop (of Exeter). Mistress Carey's 
 monies should be paid into the Exchequer. 
 
 1626, October 7. Newport, Isle of W T ight. Edward Reed to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary unto His Majesty at Court. 
 
 I have seized upon a Hamburger riding at anchor under the Cowes 
 Castle. She is laden with Spanish goods from Lisbon, and I think 
 very rich and bound for Calais, but I believe they will be proved to be 
 the goods of the subjects of the Archduchess. I wish my Lord 
 Admiral not slightly to part from her. There was in the ship 10 men 
 and two passengers ; one, an English merchant, stayed as a prisoner in 
 Lisbon, who desireth to make relation unto the Lords of Council of some 
 matter of importance that there are 22 ships sent out from Lisbon to 
 guard the plate fleet. With this ship were eight more consorts, which 
 eight were taken by a ship with English colours. 
 
 1626, October 16. Primerose, a refugee Minister from Guienne, 
 states his ministerial career from 1596, and his claim for maintenance 
 under a promise of the late King at Whitehall. 
 
 1626, October 18. Saltram. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke. 
 For a speedy hearing and mercy to the supposed offenders, viz., 
 Edward Edmunds, Francis Noseworthy, and Francis Gregory. 
 
 1626, October 20. A printed paper, " Extrait des Registres de la 
 Cour de Parlement," de Rouen. 
 
 Authorizes certain French merchants whose vessels and merchandize 
 have been seized by English ships to seize and arrest goods of English- 
 men found in that province. 
 
 1626, October 23. Rcvd. George Coke (Brother), to Sir John Coke. 
 Good effect of Sir J. Coke's letters to two, who give absolute assurance 
 of speedy performance. Endorsed " Abington."
 
 286 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1626, October 27. Thomas Alured to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary of State, and of His Majesty's most Honourable 
 Privy Council. 
 
 I have informed myself touching the living. Mr. Hardwicke is an 
 humble suitor to your Honour for it, being solely in the King's gift. 
 They of Cambridge in general are hopeful of His Majesty's favour, and 
 they of Trinity College, especially since His Majesty hath vouchsafed 
 to incorporate himself a member of that house. His mother is a gentle- 
 woman of worth, and his father-in-law, one Mr. Nevill of York, for 
 birth and breeding is not inferior to any gentleman in the North ; his 
 friends will make both an humble and an honourable acknowledgment 
 of your favour. 
 
 1626, October 28. Cambridge. John Coke (son) to Sir John Coke. 
 (Latin.) Reads his father's Analysis of Aristotle's Ethics. Death of Dr. 
 Goslin, Vice Chancellor. His tutor's health is somewhat stronger. 
 
 1626, October 28. Frisby on the Wreak. George Willcocke to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Valuation of Toleye (Tooley) Park ; it is almost 3 miles about where 
 200 deer are to be maintained. The soil is worth six shillings an acre 
 yearly. Shall young ashes be planted in the hedges? (at Baggrave). 
 
 1626, November 4. Blackfriars. Thomas Alured to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Sir M. Boynton being young should be excused from Sheriffwick of 
 York. A house of 50^. a year to be let in the Savoy by the steward of 
 Earl of Rutland. It adjoins the south end of the church, and you may 
 sit in the house and hear the sermon; it is next the master of the 
 Savoy's lodgings, where Sir George Goring now lies. 
 
 1626, November 6. Howlett. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries of State, and of His Majesty's 
 most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 My Lord having pleased, upon my removal from the Admiral's place 
 in the Narrow Seas, to bestow on me a commission for the command in 
 the West, I do beseech that your Honour would be pleased to further the 
 speedy making ready my ship the Garland. I desire here in the 
 country where I live to advance His Majesty's service in the loan which 
 hath yet gone cheerfully on, as in all the meetings where I have been 
 not one man hath refused. 
 
 1626, November 8. Trinity College, Cambridge. Daniel Green to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 I send a bill of your son's expenses the last quarter. All my recrea- 
 tion is to direct and assist him and the rest of my pupils in the course 
 of their studies. This cegritude meeting still with me at Cambridge, 
 my friends solicit me to return into the country, and I intend to spend 
 the remaining portion of my life for the good of God's Church in the 
 country. 
 
 1626, November 16. Viscount Wimbledon to Sir John Coke. 
 This token I send to my Lady your wife to put lemons in. I will 
 attend the Council of War if it will please his Grace to command it. 
 
 1626, November 18. Doctor Daniel Featly to Sir John Coke, 
 Secretary of State to His most Excellent Majesty. 
 
 I have viewed the man, and qui non sit scio, qui sit nescio. I assure 
 myself he is not that famous Dr. Smith with whom I had conference
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 287 
 
 in Paris for many hours, yet I take him to be a cunning and active 
 man, for I have met with him divers times yet never could learn his 
 name. 
 
 1626, November 20. Sir John Wolstenholme, Sir Allen Apsley, 
 W. Burrell, Commissioners of the Navy, to the Duke of Buckingham. 
 
 Great complaints being made by the captains and masters in the 
 late voyage that the King's ships are so weakly and imperfectly built 
 that they were not able to endure a storm at sea, we excuse ourselves : 
 sundry works have been done on the ships without our knowledge 
 and against our approbation : we desire nothing more than a due 
 examination of our proceedings. The ships may be repaired in 
 Portsmouth Harbour without docking. 
 
 1626, November 29. Dartmouth. Captain Christopher Levett to 
 Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's 
 most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 It hath pleased God to deny a blessing to the labours of us all that 
 hath been employed in His Majesty's service at sea. I see almost 
 all men among us seek more their own ends than God's glory or 
 their Sovereign's honour. There is no man knows better than myself 
 what benefit would accrue unto this kingdom by New England if it 
 were well planted and fortified ; which makes me so desirous to tread 
 out a path that all men may follow. I am now in a fair way to it, 
 only I want a little help ; the particulars I have mentioned in a petition 
 to His Majesty, I fly unto your Honour as my only mediator. If my 
 suit shall prove unseasonable I beseech you put me into a good ship. 
 
 1G26, December 2. Sir Robert Heath, A ttorney-General,to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 The Commission for the Navy is sent from me to have the King's 
 hand. The commission for repairing or demolishing of castles and 
 forts is in hand. As also touching recusants, priests, &c. The like 
 for the wardrobe, and for Sir John Finch. 
 
 1626, December 2. Aboard His Majesty's ship the Bonadventure 
 at Portsmouth. Captain William Hals to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of His Majesty's Secretaries of State. 
 
 My Captain Sir John Chudleigh is at this present in the west 
 country. Riding in the Downs there came in two French barks, one 
 laden with wines bound for Dieppe, the other laden with glass, tobacco, 
 and other commodities bound as the master and merchant saith for 
 Holland. According to our Admiral's order, my Lord Willoughby, 
 I brought the masters and their cocketts aboard our Admiral's ship, 
 where the master told me that I must resign them over to Captain 
 Burleigh, who rides Admiral of the Narrow Seas under Sir Henry 
 Mervyn. Be pleased in the behalf of my Captain Sir John Chudleigh 
 to send me an order as his lieutenant to dispose of them and not 
 suffer another to reap the fruits of our labour, for the ship that 
 pretendeth to be bound for Holland is a Dunkirk vessel, and by all 
 likelihood is bound for Flanders. 
 
 1626, December 5. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. " Informations for 
 the Navy." Extrait d'une lettre ecrite de Calais a l'Ambassadeur des 
 Seigneurs Etats Generaux des Provinces Unies du Pays-Bas aupres 
 de sa Majeste de la Grande Bretagne. 
 
 Sont sortis de unit S navires du Roi, les 5 sont vers le Westcuste, 
 et les 3 sont daus le Noortsee. Monsieur PAmiral de Nassau pourchasse 
 les 3, et Monsieur le Commaudeur Quast est alle avec 9 bons navires
 
 288 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokeMSS vers le Westcuste. Le Marquis fait batir cinq grands navires proche 
 de Bruges ; ils ayent encore sept dans la ville de Dunkerque auxquels 
 Ton travaille tous les jours. 
 
 Indorsed by Sir J. Coke with alleged frauds by John Contrie, 
 boatswain of the Dreadnought, and by Driffield, deputy victualler, 
 who sent to Flushing a ketch laden with victuals out of the Guard- 
 land. 
 
 1626, December 5. Sir John Wolstenholme, Sir Allen Apsley. 
 W. Burrell, and Sir W. Russell, Commissioners of the Navy, to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Three of His Majesty's ships and divers others of the fleet have 
 arrived at the Downs. They will be in danger in that wild road in 
 this winter's weather and will be in want of victuals, the disorderly 
 sort of sailors will commit outrages. The Commissioners ask considera- 
 tion and present remedy. 
 
 1626, December 5. Demand of the Earl of Sussex for the forts at 
 Harwich. 
 
 1626, December 6. Sir George Chudleigh to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries at Court. 
 
 This gentleman's liberty, by your grant, to come to me hath been 
 very successful towards his entrance into those happy bonds with 
 which J did acquaint you. In neighbour shires soldiers commit riots, 
 murders, and robberies. If the affairs of state were not in a distraction 
 beyond the apprehension of so weak a mind as mine I would offer my 
 poor thoughts towards a re-establishment. But I confess to God the 
 courses taken are so far beyond my reach as I know not what to think 
 will become of us if we fall not again and quickly to our old ways. 
 God of his mercy grant it and put it into the hearts of those that have 
 power to do it. To him I commend your honour, your noble lady, 
 and virtuous sister. 
 
 1626, December 6 Robert Rich, Earl of Warwick, to Mr. Secretary 
 Coke, at Court. 
 
 I have sent Captain Hooper, who went Admiral of my ship, to 
 acquaint you what he hath done, which I conceive to be a good service 
 to His Majesty ; his intelligence I shall humbly entreat you to make 
 a representation of to His Majesty. My other ships are gone about 
 their employments, and so shall he as soon as he can re-mast himself. 
 
 [Within.] Sir J. Coke's notes of the intelligence of Captain Hooper. 
 A Spanish vessel going to Dunkirk taken as a prize. 
 
 1626, December 6. Portsmouth. Sir John Watts to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Carpenters and others importune me for their wages. Our beer is 
 spent and our seamen grow insolent. I shall not keep the common 
 men in order. I do prolong their drink with water and wine beverage, 
 they much repine at it, the weather being cold. I have trimmed and 
 fitted the Red Lion. 
 
 1626, December 11. Sir Robert Heath (Attorney-General), to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Concerning W. Shaffneis, a prisoner in the Gatehouse. I have taken 
 bonds for his appearance. He is a suitor for enlargement and 
 forgiveness of his fees. 
 
 1626, December 12. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. Mr. Burlamachi's 
 advice concerning reprisals. 
 
 II est plus que necessaire de pourvoir aux desordres de la marine si 
 on ne veut voir le commerce entierement mine, car nos voisins traffi-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 289 
 
 quant en Espagne trouvant leurs navires journellement saisis en fin se CoKE Mss 
 revengeront sur les marchands de ce Royaume ou ils les trouveront. 
 Qu'il plaise a sa Majeste et Messeigneurs de son Conseil de prendre en 
 leur prudent consideration l'impossibilite qu'il y a d'empecher aux 
 autres nations le traffique avec Espagne sans tomber journellement es 
 difficultes ou nous nous voyons avec la France. II n'y a doute aucune 
 que ce que peut le plus endommager cet jStat en ce temps de guerre 
 qu'avons avec l'Espagne est leur fournir et conduire ce de quoi ils ont 
 le plus affaire, tant pour leur propre usage que pour nous nuire ce qui est 
 compris en deux points a savoir, en munitions de bouche ct de guerre. 
 II faudrait pourvoir par une Declaration Generate a, tons les Marchands 
 de quel lieu et place que puissentetre que leurs navires etant rencontres 
 avec aucune partie de l'un ou Pautre de ces provisions outre ce qui est 
 necessaire pour la defense ordinaire du navire que, sans aucune com- 
 miseration, toute la charge sera confisquee soit de quoi puisse etre le 
 reste. Ou au contraire manufactures de toiles, draperies et autres 
 telles marchandises qui ne peuvent servir a nulle de ces deux fins ne 
 recevront aucun destourbie ou empechement. 
 
 Je m'avancerais de dire que sera beaucoup mieux de laisser librement 
 passer les navires pourvu que ne soient destines pour les lieux sus-dits 
 (Dunkerque, Ostende, Nieuport, et autres places assiegees) et que ne se 
 trouvent en la hauteur des ports de mer de Flandres prets pour y 
 entrer, que non par les retenant tomber es inconveniences esquels 
 nous avons vu nos marchands tomber plus d'une fois en si peu de 
 temps. Je ne fais nulle doute que prenant ces deux voies le commerce 
 florira en ce Royaume autant et plus que durant la paix comme 
 j'ai vu du temps de la Reine Elisabeth de haute et heureuse memoire. 
 
 1626, December 20. Inner Temple. Sir Robert Heath, Attorney- 
 General, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His 
 Majesty. 
 
 At the earnest request of Sir Miles Fleetwood and by the verbal 
 direction of your Honour and other the Commissioners for the Revenue 
 I drew a proclamation touching respite of homage. I never had any 
 affiance in it and now I find the Commissioners are so weil satisfied 
 that it is rather like to do hurt than good that it is stayed. Be pleased 
 by this my servant to send it back. 
 
 1626, December 26. Dartmouth. Captain John Harrison to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty and 
 one of His Majesty's most honourable Privy Council, at Whitehall. 
 
 His ship that was to have transported Moorish prisoners to Barbary 
 has sprung a leak. He fears a design that instead of their being ex- 
 changed for captives, 27 of them, viz. : 7 of Sallee, the rest of Algiers, 
 will be taken to Leghorn in Italy to be sold for slaves. It were good 
 policy to hold better correspondence with the Turks and the coast 
 near the Straits having now all the coast of Spain to enemy, and no 
 other refuge for our ships but the coast of Barbary. 
 
 1626, December 27. Holme Lacy. Sir John Scudamore to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 To acknowledge no otherwise than in words, or else but a poor unfit 
 present, the real and noble favours you do me checks with my am- 
 bition. 1 offer by this bearer a small token of great service due to your 
 honour. 
 
 1626, December 30. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippislev to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 U 24963. T
 
 290 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 With much ado I have sent about Mr. Chamberlain's ship, for the 
 Cinque Ports do hold that they ought not to send away any ships that 
 are brought in [as prizes ?] here. 
 
 1626, December 30. Sir Miles Fleetwood to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Mv service is engaged for the disafforestation of some forests, I fear 
 not but a very acceptable work, producing large increase of profit to 
 His Majesty accompanied with good contentment to all with whom I 
 shall have to deal. 
 
 1626. Petition of John Spencer for " A warrant from the King's 
 Majesty to search freely His Highness' records." 
 
 1626. " The state of Durisme and the Gentlemen there." 
 
 " A note of the principal gentlemen of the Bishoprick of Durham and 
 their several habitations." 
 
 " Jarrow. My Lord Eure his land all papists there. One Bury, a 
 papist, dwelling in the Seat house," &c. &c. 
 
 This paper enumerates the wards, the places within each, the owners 
 of those places (92), and whether they and the inhabitants generally are 
 papists, recusants, or other wise, 
 
 (1626). Draft by Sir J. Coke of a letter from himself (probably 
 to his colleague Secretary Conway). 
 
 Right Honourable, You shall herewith receive : first the Lord Carle- 
 ton's letter to me which showeth how worthily and effectually he hath 
 proceeded in the business of Amboyna and the revocation of Coen. 
 Secondly the justification of the Bewinthebbers for sending Coen 
 away which they presented to the States. Thirdly the Lord Carleton's 
 answers and animadversions on that justification which was also 
 delivered in writing to the States. And fourthly an extract of such 
 writings as are contained in the answer. By all which your Lordship 
 may well understand that the barbarous cruelties and tiie supplanting of 
 our merchants and trade in the East Indies proceedeth not properly from 
 the States-General nor from the greater and better party of their East 
 India Company, but from the violence of some predominant spirits who 
 yet may be suppressed by His Majesty's authority adding more anima- 
 tion and confidence to the States ; who otherwise upon discovery of 
 any coldness or indifference from hence will not oppose the advantages 
 pretended for their trade by the overthrow of ours. The Lord Carle- 
 ton advertiseth in what forwardness the French are to fetch their 4 ships 
 from Amsterdam, and how much it importeth to have them intercepted. 
 Now the interruption of these ships and the defence of the Islands of 
 Guernsey and Jersey being both important and pressing give me leave 
 to propound what may further be considered in the directions of these 
 services. It was conceived to be most expedient to send the Earl 
 of Denbigh with Admiral's power attended and assisted with such 
 ships as could presently be made ready. But since the framing of his 
 Lordship's instructions and since our coming from Windsor I have here 
 met Sir Henry Mervyn who not only by his patent of Admiralty for 
 the Narrow Seas but by particular instructions from the Lord Duke is 
 appointed to take charge of this service. By letters now received 
 from the Lord Duke it appeareth that the ships which were at New- 
 haven (Havre de Grace) are now drawn to Blanet. His Grace writeth 
 to me in these formal words At Blanet I am informed there are 
 eleven ships of this King's designed for some special service and as is 
 reported for a convoy of his ships that he hath built in the Low 
 Countries : hither I have sent four ships manned with choice and 
 resolute men and eight shallops with some French pilots well affected
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 291 
 
 to the business, Sir William Heidons engineer fire works, and instruc- 
 tions unto the Captains to go with those shallops and fire works by- 
 night into the harbour and by all possible means to attempt the firing 
 of such of the enemies' ships as they shall find there. Your Lordship 
 may be pleased to confer again with the Lords Committees [The Lord 
 Steward, Earl of Dorset, Earl of Totnes, Lord Conway, Sir J. Coke] 
 whether it be not fit to propound to His Majesty that Sir Henry 
 Mervyn, being an able and experienced commander aud his Admiral at 
 the Narrow Seas, may not proceed according to his instructions received 
 from the Lord Admiral ; and the Earl of Denbigh's commission not be 
 called in, but only kept in suspense till upon further notice a reinforce- 
 ment may be sent of a fleet which may require a commander of his 
 honour and worth. What shall be His Majesty's good pleasure herein 
 I shall attend your further signification which on all parts will be 
 obeyed. 
 
 (1626). Very rough draft (much torn) by Sir J. Coke of his letter 
 to the Duke of Buckingham on the Commissions of Sir II. Mervyn and 
 the Earl of Denbigh, for intercepting the French ships. 
 
 1626 (probably). A paper of 16 pages in the writing of Sir J. Coke. 
 " The accompt of our proceedings in the Commission for retrench- 
 ments of his Majesty's charges and increase of his revenue." 
 First, for pensions, we find paid out of 
 
 The Court of Wards 
 Office of Alienation 
 Household 
 
 Exchequer 
 
 s. 
 
 - 27,051 
 
 - 3,700 
 1,067 13 
 
 f 88,485 3 2 1 
 
 [ 0,529 2 io/ y ' Ui4 b 
 
 d. 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 In all - 
 
 - 126,752 19 
 
 4 
 
 4 (sic) 
 
 Which with like pensions assigned upon divers receivers make the 
 yearly payments to amount to 140,000/. or thereabout. 
 
 We have sent warrants into all offices to make stay of these payments 
 till his Majesty's further pleasure shall be made known unto them. 
 
 2. For wages, fees, and allowances to servants and others many have 
 obtained allowances in several offices whereby neither your Majesty nor 
 your officers can readily know what your charge is. We therefore 
 advise your Majesty to give express order lhat henceforth no officer 
 shall for the same service have allowances paid unto him save in one 
 office and under one accompt. 
 
 3. We have entered into a particular survey of your Majesty's charge 
 in the office of the Treasurer of your Chamber, aud have compared it 
 with the charge in Queen Elizabeth's times. 
 
 Q. Elizabeth. Now. 
 
 
 
 Music of all kinds - 1,576 - 3,000 above. 
 
 f L d Dormer ^ f AT ^ 
 
 ' Now several 
 
 was heredy 
 Falconers-^ Muster of the [ 34 
 I Hawks at his 
 (^ own ch;u 
 
 masters at 
 le King 
 charge. 
 
 ... , y 3,532 
 the K-ine: s j ' 
 
 J 
 
 Huntsmen - - 200 - 3,000 
 
 T 2
 
 292 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. A cormorant keeper added, with 84/. yearly charge, which we think 
 
 may be suppressed. We humbly advise your Majesty will set down the 
 numbers in every kind, and the qualities of the persons with whom you 
 will be served. 
 
 4. In Queen Elizabeth's time, physicians (3), Chirurgeon (1), and 
 Apothecary (1) came to 416/. Now your Majesty entertaineth seven 
 physicians (Doctors Mayern, Bethune, Chambers, Cragge, Lister, 
 Atkins, and Poe), six or seven chirurgeons, and two or three apothe- 
 caries. We advise that their allowances may be reduced to the propor- 
 tions of former times, and that the honour and countenance of his 
 Majesty's service may be esteemed as then it was a great advancement. 
 By this retrenchment we conceive there may be saved above 3,000/. p. a. 
 his Majesty (God be thanked) enjoying youth and health. 
 
 The guard in the times of Henry 8, and so to Queen Elizabeth, were 
 but 140, now they are increased to 200 ; the whole yearly charge 
 which was formerly 4,554/. is now risen to 7,908/. We conceive the 
 number may be reduced to 160, and their pay to 2 shillings per diem, 
 whereby there may be saved about 2,500/. p. a., and that nome be 
 admitted to be a yeoman of the guard who hath not 20/. a year of 
 livelihood. 
 
 Footmen. Queen Elizabeth had but eight, their charge 320/. p. a. 
 Your Majesty hath now ten, besides eight serving the Queen, the cost 
 being grown to 960/. 
 
 Grooms of the chamber had in former times small allowances ; they 
 are now brought to a certain yearly charge of oil/, p. a. by a daily rate 
 of 2 shillings per diem. 
 
 Messengers of the Chamber. In Queen Elizabeth's time they' Avere 
 but eight in ordinary, and their charges, and of all the others sent by 
 Lords or the Secretaries, came not to 2,000/. p. a. But this charge 
 being afterwards multiplied to 6,000/. it was reduced in the Earl of 
 Salisbury's time to 40 messengers in ordinary at 50/. apiece per annum 
 without allowances of bills. 
 
 Packets and bills of travelling charges allowed by the Council. 
 the charges whereof in former times was 2,292/. p. a. is now raised to 
 above 6,000/. For retrenching this charge it is thought fit first that the 
 Secretaries and all the Ambassadors be charged not to employ express 
 messengers when the ordinary may serve, and for packets which are 
 sent by messengers express it is required that the rates be prescribed. 
 
 The post of Chester is to be put down because the ordinary stages are 
 sufficient. 
 
 Allowances upon the Lord Chamberlain's warrants which are for 
 lodgings to such as are not accommodated in the house, for hire 
 of coaches, barges, and attendances upon Ambassadors, and sundry 
 other matters ; for these no allowances were made in former times but 
 out of the privy purse, now they are grown to 2,007/. p. a. by means of 
 the Master of the Ceremonies and his assistants, who further charge the 
 Crown with great entertainments, and have raised excessive allowances 
 to all foreign Ambassadors. The Office of Ceremonies should be again 
 laid down, and for entertaining Ambassadors gentlemen of the chamber 
 may be again employed as in former times. 
 
 Officers of the jewel house, and of the wardrobe, and artificers are 
 increased ; the clockmaker hath yearly payments which amount to above 
 500/. p. a. 
 
 Apparelling and making ready the King's houses formerly came to 
 but 298/. p. a., now to 1,083/., which groweth by the exorbitant 
 demands of the gentlemen ushers whereof every one alloweth himself
 
 HISTORIC AL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 293 
 
 for every day in the year, so as in their bills they are paid for 1,000 Coke mss. 
 days in one year. The Lord Chamberlain to consider how to bring 
 their services to a certain easy charge. 
 
 Keeping of gardens from 250/. is risen to 654/., for reduction whereof 
 his Majesty may be pleased to set down what gardens shall be kept with 
 charge, that the charge of the rest may be forborne. 
 
 These are the reductions that we have as yet considered of in the 
 office of Treasurer of your Chamber, which happily may cut off near a 
 moiety of that charge. 
 
 Some other retrenchments we found to be fit in the title of assigrna- 
 tions and defalcations of your Majesty's revenue. 
 
 For provision of sweet wines Serjeant Boy hath a yearly assignment 
 of 1,584/., wherein considering your Majesty useth not those Avines, and 
 that anciently there was no such allowance for the house we thought fit 
 to understand your Majesty's pleasure whether this charge may not be 
 cut off. 
 
 For provision of French wines Abraham Jacob hath an assignation of 
 4,000/. p. a., and of 300/. p. a. for leakage and cooperage ; Ave conceive a 
 better bargain for your Majesty may be had. 
 
 For the imposts of Chester Sir Richard Calveley hath a patent at 
 300/. rent, but the farmers are allowed defalcation of 800/. p. a. because 
 Sir Richard receiveth so much upon that farm, so his Majesty loseth 
 thereby 500/. p. a. We hope to provide that your Majesty thereafter 
 may no more be so abused. 
 
 Out of the impositions for sea coals there is allowance made of 1,700/. 
 p. a. for coals sent into Ireland, and coals for the poor of London, AAdiich 
 Ave think fit to retrench till it appear that the poor have the benefit 
 thereof, and that there be cause to give the kingdom of Ireland this 
 preeminence above our oavu people. 
 
 Defalcations out of the great customs Ave intend to examine. 
 We have also entered into the means of increasing your Majesty's 
 revenue in some special heads. 
 
 First, of tenures in capite, as Avas moved by the Attorney of the 
 Wards, such as in their uttermost improvement are not above 
 10/. p. a. may be upon reasonable composition changed into tenures 
 in socage ; and this he conceived avouUI yield a good fine and 
 double rent to the King to an improvement of above 20,000/. p. 
 For trial how this may take effect a commission is granted to Sir 
 John Savile and others to treat Avith the tenants of this kind in the 
 West Riding of Yorkshire. 
 Secondly, out of the respite of homage Sir Miles Fleetwood pro- 
 pounded how the rent, which is now but 000/. p. a., may be 
 raised to so many thousands by a composition at the rates of 15/. a 
 Duke, Marquis and Earl ; 12/. a Viscount and Baron ; S/. a Baronet 
 and Knight; 51. an Escpiire and Gentleman, and 3/. for a yeoman 
 and every inferior person. This Ave find fit to be put in execution 
 if the Remembrancer cannot give good reasons to forbear. 
 Thirdly, for the Liveries on the proposition of the Chancellor of the 
 Exchequer Ave ordered to send warrants to the Master and Officers 
 of the AVards to cause all that were of full age at the death of their 
 ancestor to sue their liveries the next term, and those that are 
 Avards within two years after they come to age. 
 Fourthly, for Copyholds, Mr. Chancellor propounded the raisin"- of 
 the revenues by changing them into fee farms. The officers are 
 required by us to certify the particular state of all such copyholds,
 
 294 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 and of leases and leased lands ; and Sir Thomas Fanshawe is 
 appointed to make trial in manors in Middlesex, Surrey, Essex, 
 Hertfordshire, and Huntingdonshire. 
 
 5. For forests, chases, and parks which may be assured to raise a 
 great revenue to the Crown, we concluded not to deal with any which 
 were near his Majesty's houses of ordinary resort. 
 
 For parks we think there may be dealt with 
 
 Berkhampstead (Dutchy of Cornwall). Beskwood, \ js[ t t( . 
 
 Celsey (Sussex). Clipson, j L 
 
 Braiden. Shot wick (Cheshire). 
 
 Bowwood. Brantspith, 1 Durliam 
 
 Ocley (Shropshire). Baby, J 
 
 Scawood (Lancashire). Wanley (Richmond). 
 Hatfield (Yorkshire). 
 
 Chases. 
 
 Malbern and Ledbury in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. 
 
 Hatfield Chase, in Yorkshire. 
 
 Aubern Chase in Wiltshire, Duchy land, and good only for conies. 
 
 Forests 
 
 Broile, Sussex (Eaid of Dorset). Fecknam, Worcestershire. 
 
 Barnwood (now disafforesting). Mocktree, Brindswood,andDerval r 
 
 Filwood, "1 Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. 
 
 Kingswood, J Somersetshire. Guelfsdale, Ennerdale, and Ingle- 
 
 (' (in lease to Lord wood, Cumberland. 
 
 Exmoor J Chamberlain) in Gawtress (where his Majesty hath 
 
 and Roch ] Devon and no land.) 
 
 [_ Somerset. Mablesfield and Delamare, 
 
 Selwood in Somerset. Cheshire. 
 
 Salcey. Tidsdale and Langley, Durham. 
 
 Wyre and Morth (no deer). Conardale and Archigarthdale, 
 
 Kinvare, Stafford (neither deer Richmond. 
 
 nor wood). Divers forests in Wales. 
 
 Ashdown, Sussex, belonging to 
 the Duchy. 
 
 For Deane Forest Mr. Treswell has offered to raise 5,000/. a year by 
 lopwOod and cordwood for the ironworks and by short timber for 
 vessel stuff. Another offer is promised by Sir John Winter. 
 
 6. For draining of fens and surrounded lands Mr. Gason and Mr. 
 Tipper make offer to do it by a new invention, his Majesty to have a 
 third of his fresh and a fourth of his salt marshes, and a third of a third 
 of the marshes of other lords, at no charge. 
 
 7. For restoring the decayed revenues we have taken into consi- 
 deration first the alum works, secondly the tobacco, which hath 
 yielded but 1,500/. in two years, whereas formerly it rose to 8,000/. at 
 the least every year. Thirdly, the licenses for taverns, which now yield 
 in the hands of Mr. Williams, the collector, but 2,952/. the year, but 
 happily may be raised to a much better rent. 
 
 
 The whole revenue of this year current to end at 
 
 March next is - - - - - 539,000 
 
 Whereof there is already assigned - 276,983 
 
 And there hath been anticipated ... 163,475
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 295 
 
 And there is decayed in the Great Farm 8,000/., in 
 the new imposition 8,000/., in the pretermitted 
 customs 7,000/., in the recusants 3,000/., in the 
 Office of Alienations 3,000/., in Starchamber fines 
 400/., in the Clerk of the Markets Office 400/. ; 
 in all - - - - - 36,000 
 
 So the sums already disposed of make in all - 476,456 
 
 Which being deducted out of the whole revenue 
 there remaineth for all ordinary and extraordinary 
 charges not assigned to be defrayed till March 
 but ----- - 62,542 
 
 And the ordinary aionc for that time requiring 
 230,000/., there resteth to be supplied for the 
 ordinary - 157,456 
 
 Besides all charges for extraordinary service which is not provided 
 for. 
 
 Whereby it may appear how much it concerneth your Majesty to 
 rectify your estate as by this Commission you intend. 
 
 Then follow some specific recommendations for improving the receipt 
 and payment of the revenue ; also as to certain applications for re- 
 covering salt marshes, for license to transport butter and tallow out of 
 Lancashire, Cheshire, Durham, Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk 
 (not to be allowed), and for the erection of a mint in Ireland to coin 
 copper money (not approved, Ireland having already suffered much by 
 such coin). 
 
 1626-7, January 5. London. Merchants to John Baptist Rowlands. 
 
 Theise are to give you to understand That by order of the State wee 
 have libertie to make choice of our owne Post for all places : and wee 
 have appointed Henrie Billingsley for to take upp our Letteres heere, 
 and to receave them from thence. Ilee sendeth these to you from 
 hence, and wee praie you to send our letters from thence to him from 
 what place soever you receave them : And soe entreating you to pcrforme 
 our request wee will not trouble you any further at this time : But with 
 our love reinemhrc-d unto you wee committ you to God, and rest your 
 loving friends. 
 
 Signed by John Gore, Hugh Hamersley, Raphe Freman, and 211 
 others. 
 
 1626-7, January 1 2. Notes by Sir J. Coke. 
 " Committee of the Council of War at Wallingford House." 
 The several companies arc placed in Kent IS, Sussex 16, Hamp- 
 shire 10, Berkshire 9, Dorsetshire 23, to meet at four places of rendez- 
 vous, Southampton, Winchester, Chichester, and Ilavant to be reduced 
 to four regiments of eight companies at the discretion of Sir John 
 Burrough to march 13 miles a day. To inquire after all the material 
 returned from Cadiz. 
 
 1626-7, January. Draft by Sir John Coke, "King's letter to the 
 Lord Admiral." 
 
 When to redeem our honour and the wrongs done unto us and our 
 dear sister and her children we were upon the advice of our parliament 
 engaged into open war against the King of Spain, his pride, malice, 
 power, and large dominions considered we found no way more advan- 
 tageous, more honourable and safe than by assailing him at. home to 
 disturb the raising and uniting of his forces and to divert them for his
 
 296 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 own defence . . . We command you to make ready with all speed a 
 fleet of 20 of the best and fittest of our own ships of war and of a 
 hundred of the suflicientest ships of our subjects from 300 tons in burden 
 and upwards . . . and as well in the river of Thames as in other 
 ports of our kingdom to cause the most warlike and serviceable ships 
 to be stayed appointed and prepared for this occasion. 
 
 1626-7, January 1. From a close prison. Captain Thomas Brede- 
 man to Lord Conway and Sir John Coke, Secretaries of State. 
 
 In all humility and penitential submission, I confess a fault and beg 
 a pardon. Considering the place, the accuser, the time at supper after 
 many a cup and I the speaker drunk, these arguments will exempt me 
 from supposition of action or intention to offend ; however my trans- 
 gression hath been chastised, wherefore humbly imploring with suppli- 
 cative contrition your Honour's benignity showing my long service in 
 the wars, I rest your most devoted humble servant. 
 
 1626-7, January 15. The names of such who are contented to lend 
 unto His Majesty such sums of money as they were assessed at in the 
 last Parliament according to His Majesty's commission and instructions, 
 and for the defence of religion and the State. Executed at Leicester 
 the loth day of January 1626 (with the sums subscribed). 
 
 Henry Lord Gray. William Whaley. 
 
 Sir Henry Skipwith. Sir Henry Shirley, Knt. 
 
 The Lady Skipwith his mother. Sir Edw^ard Hartopp. 
 
 Sir William Faunt. Sir Henry Berkley. 
 
 Sir William Roberts. Sir George Quarles. 
 
 Sir William Villiers. Edward Stourton. 
 
 Sir Wolstan Dixie. William Noell. 
 
 Doctor Chippingdale. John Waring of Eastwell. 
 
 Thomas Sheldon. Arnold Waring of Thorpe 
 
 George Ashby. Arnold. 
 
 Roger Smith. Anthony Faunt. 
 
 John Cave. Thomas Broadgate. 
 
 Thomas Babington. Richard Brant. 
 
 Nathaniel Lacy. Thomas Calcott. 
 
 William Hallford. John Bourne. 
 
 Francis Danvers. Sir William Heyrick. 
 
 1626-7, February 1. Prestwold. Sir Henry Skipwith, to Sir John 
 Coke, Secretary of State and one of His Majesty's Privy Council. 
 
 I am bold to trouble you with these lines with which I send you the 
 Rolls of East Goscot Hundred as perfect as it is possible for us to make 
 them. One William Reade an attorney hath much slighted us. If this 
 man may thus escape it will do much hurt in the business. 
 
 1626-7, February 12. Robert Rich, Earl of Warwick, to Mr. Secre- 
 tary Coke, Principal Secretary to His Majesty, at Court. 
 
 I and my friends have ready to depart the " Great Neptune " five or 
 600 tons, 34 pieces of ordnance in her and six months victuals. The 
 " Jonathan " 26 pieces, the " Little Neptune "13 pieces, the Spanish 
 " Patacke " of four pieces, and the barque " Warwick " of six pieces. 
 The four last have letters of marque and six months' provisions. These 
 are my own. If I had a commission I should have many more join 
 with me. Asks to be suffered to go to sea against His Majesty's 
 enemies, on a West Indian voyage, or a service on the French in the 
 Straits, or for the coast of Spain or the Islands. I pray if we may do 
 nothing with the French that the commission may go generally against 
 the King of Spain or his dominions. I shall desire 200 land men.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 297 
 
 1626-7, February 13. The Savoy. George Carew, Earl of Totnes, to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Mr. Gowkin's scheme touching the maintenance of an army in 
 Ireland for the defence of the same at the charge of the subjects of 
 that kingdom should be referred by His Majesty to select referees. 
 What I conceived of his propositions is shortly this, that I hold the 
 most of them are worthy of consideration as well for the easing of His 
 Majesty's charge there as the strengthening of that realm both against 
 home rebellion, foreign invasion, and the civilizing thereof. 
 
 1626-7, February 20. "Warwick. Richard Vyner (cousin) to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 In suit against Mr. Powell and Mr. Swayne you may now take exe- 
 cution against one or both. I have planted above 400 trees of oak, ash, 
 and elm this winter, and have set above 800 crabstocks, whereof I have 
 already grafted the one half. 
 
 1626-7, February 23. Wimbledon. Edward Cecyll, Viscount 
 Wimbledon, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Hears that much of the money for payment of the soldiers is come 
 up. Urges resolutions of the Council of War, that the captains repair 
 to the shires where their regiments lie, and that the soldiers be billeted 
 entire companies together and not scattered. If Council meet take 
 order and resolutions, and there be no despatch, business is like eggs 
 that if they be not hatched will be rotten. There are many vagabonds 
 that in the name of soldiers do outrages and thefts, and laws are not 
 kept against rogues that go up and down a begging in the day and 
 stealing at night. Never more needful to have such laws put in 
 execution for that the world is something captious at all things that are 
 commanded without a parliament. There should be made a provost 
 marshal in every shire to assist the sheriffs, and to make the constables 
 perform their duties. For all errors are committed for want of a good 
 overseer, and there is no carthorse whatsoever (as the Dutchman saith) 
 will draw without a carter and his whip to oversee them. Necessary to 
 have a Council of War called, and Monday will be a fit day. 
 
 1626-7, February 27. Newmarket. Secretary Viscount Conway to 
 Sir John Coke, one of his Majesty's principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 His Majesty is in good health, and follows his exercises according as 
 the weather serves. Expedition should be used in the levy and despatch 
 of the recruits for Denmark as it concerns His Majesty's honour and 
 the King of Denmark's service. I dare not say anything to His 
 Majesty of the business of Ireland, because I fear there is not so much 
 done as should be. 
 
 1026-7, February 28. Robert Rich, Earl of Warwick, to Mr. Secre- 
 tary Coke, principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I agreed with Mr. Attorney and the Judge of the Admiralty upon a 
 Commission, and being confident upon it showed it to divers merchants, 
 my partners, who have come in and adventured their money. Now Mr. 
 Attorney tells me Mr. Nicholas, my Lord Duke's Secretary, hath it, 
 and would limit the number of ships which will be a great disservice to 
 His Majesty, for the stronger we go to the West Indies the more 
 damage Ave shall do the King's enemy. I lose all the season of the year, 
 and the merchants will think I juggle with them. Otherwise, sir, I 
 will give it over and never think more of the sea. 
 
 1626-7, March 5. Wimbledon. Viscount Wimbledon to Sir John 
 Coke.
 
 298 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 A Council of War should be called to despatch the captains and 
 officers down into the five shires to attend their charges and to rid them 
 out of the town. 
 
 1626-7, March 5. Newmarket. Secretary Viscount Conway to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 To yours of the first. The King did esteem very much the pains you 
 had taken, the several orders given, and the state you had brought those 
 affairs to. Only His Majesty requires you to continue the expedition of 
 the ten ships, and care in the sale of French goods. For the quicken- 
 ing of the counties in the matter of the loan the Lords will assist you in 
 anything you shall propound to that purpose. Now to yours of the 4th 
 I return you the proclamation signed. For the French Ambassador's 
 negotiation in the Low Countries except God pluck out their eyes they 
 will be very careful not to suffer themselves to be embarked into any 
 treaty that may make them foul with our nation. For the more sure 
 avoidance whereof you have already made choice there of the most 
 sufficient ambassador (and His Majesty hath approved it), and withal 
 passed further to greater points than I could have conceived. To which 
 I beseech God give bridle or spurs as shall be fittest for His glory, the 
 honour of His Majesty and the safety of this Church and kingdom. 
 His Majesty hopeth it shall not be in the French King's power to chastise 
 the Rochellers or their supporters. To-morrow we go hence, the next 
 day we shall be at Theobald's, and so be able to play our balls with 
 quicker returns. 
 
 1626-7, March 6. Blackfriars. Thomas Alured to Sir John Coke. 
 Asks for a letter to the Earl of Exeter on behalf of his brother a 
 B. D. for the living of Rosse [Roos] in Yorkshire. 
 
 1626-7, March 7. Theobald's. Secretary Viscount Conway to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 His Majesty hath observed that the 5th of this present March was the 
 day appointed for the soldiers to be transported to Stoade (Stade on the 
 Elbe). He hath commanded me to signify his pleasure to you that you 
 employ all care and endeavour to hasten them on shipboard. The 
 Dutch Ambassador is come over : his greatest lading is complaints for 
 ships and goods arrested here, and the renewing of a suit for the 
 deferring of time to make satisfaction in the point of Amboyna. The 
 opinion is here that Her Majesty will come hither to-morrow and draw 
 the King with her to London, and then shall I wait upon him and have 
 the opportunity to see you. 
 
 1626-7, March 10. Norton. William Whalley (Cousin) to Sir 
 John Coke, at his house on Garlick Hill. 
 
 Price of John Waldram's land in Odby is 4,000/. which the Lady 
 Manners did bid him very near. The King's money comes slowly. 
 
 1626-7, March 12. Philippe Burlamachi a Monsr. Monsr. Jean Coke, 
 Chevalier, Conseiller et Principal Secretaire d'Etat de sa Majeste. 
 
 Sums necessary to pay the mariners. Proceeds of sale of goods at 
 Portsmouth. 
 
 II sera necessaire d'avoir lettres d'assistance de Messeigneurs du 
 Conseil de sa Majeste pour l'homme qui va en Sussex faire l'achat du 
 ble afin que puisse sans empechement et depenses des fees et autres 
 pretensions des officiers mener d'un port a autre les barques. Je la 
 supplie vouloir donner ordre ou il est besoin que ma satisfaction puisse 
 suivre ayant deja debourse cinq. out six cents livres.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 299 
 
 1626-7, March 14. Sir John Wolstenholme, Sir William Russell, 
 William Burrell, Den. Flemyng, Commissioners of the Navy, to the 
 Duke of Buckingham, Lord High Admiral of England. 
 
 The fitting of the 20 ships at a stand, the mariners refusing to put 
 their hand to any work, and the owners to furnish their ships till they 
 are paid wages and freight due to them. 
 
 Notes by Sir J. Coke " The mariners to be paid out of the sales and 
 the loans 9,000/. The freight out of the first sales of French goods." 
 
 1626-7, March 19. Robert Rich, Earl of Warwick, to Sir John 
 Coke, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I received even now a post from one of my ships that hath taken a 
 Brazilian outward bound at the Canaries. 
 
 1626-7, March 21. Sir William Hey don to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The 4,000/. upon French sales is paid away to others to the disappoint- 
 ment of the creditors of the office of the Ordnance. I am at a stand 
 and forced to attend here fruitlessly while the service suffers delay. 
 
 1627, March 25. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley, Governor of the 
 Tower, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty, 
 and of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Upon Friday night the Master of the Rolls came hither and 
 acquainted me with letters from the Lords for the billeting and dieting 
 of 1,150 soldiers, and that night with the justices, constables, and head 
 borough, we took order for their billeting in several hamlets. Last night 
 there came 50 soldiers from Northampton proper men well clothed, but 
 the conductors have left them at random and no officer at all to take 
 charge of them. I beseech your honour that this be done to command 
 the captains attendance with their officers, for without present officers 
 the soldiers will disorder and run away. The inhabitants will yield 
 them lodging, but refuse to give them meat without money. 
 
 1627, March 26. Commissioners of sales, for confirmation of the 
 bargain made with Burlamachi, for sales of cochineals and indigoes of 
 various kinds at stated prices. Signed by Henry Garwaie, J. Wolsten- 
 holme, Abraham Jacoby, John Bland. Henry Elwes, Clement Ilarbie, 
 Thomas Bownest, William Ashwell, George Langham, B. Snelling. 
 
 1627, March 26. . John Jones, to old Francis to be delivered to 
 his cousin, John Jones, London. 
 
 I wrote that you venture no money for me betwixt London or Dover 
 and Calais, for fear of the Dunkirker who lieth in daily wait to catch 
 what he can, but that it be paid to Mr. in Bucklersbury, taking 
 
 his bill to pay Harry Booth of this town of Calais. 
 
 1627, March 26. Chatham. William Cooke to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Is one of the Tour principal Masters of the Navy. Asks to be 
 appointed master of the Triumph, His Majesty having augmented the 
 wages. 
 
 1627, March 27. Portsmouth. Captain John Ileigham to Sir John 
 Jephson, Knight, Deputy Governor of the town and garrison of Ports- 
 mouth, and the Isle of Portsea, at his house at Froyle. 
 
 For His Majesty's especial service. This afternoon being at church 
 in the midst of prayer time one brought me news that Southsea Castle 
 was afire. The injured castle covered with lead is wholly burnt down 
 to the very bottom of the cellar. I am persuaded it was a mere acci- 
 dent and no intended villany. I presently caused all the French to 
 depart the town every one a ship-board.
 
 300 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1627, March 30. Harwich. Captain Ri. Saltonstall to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Many run away, and no hue and cry bringeth any back, the 150 
 men from Norfolk come not. Men grow unruly and the country taketh 
 no order. 
 
 (Indorsed. Letters sent from the Board to Lieutenants for a new 
 prest in Essex to supply the runaways.) 
 
 1627, March 31. Harwich. Robert Goodwyn, Mayor, to His 
 Majesty's Council of State for His Majesty's especial and urgent 
 affairs. 
 
 I have beyond my strength disbursed borrowed monies to pay these 
 350 soldiers. Let me not be blamed if His Majesty's designs in sending 
 these men, your Honours care to effectuate the same, and the county's 
 loyalty in impressing, furnishing, and sending them, and all our most 
 fervent zeal to His Majesty's service (under God) all this while be 
 suddenly annihilated by their disbanding. Thus tendering most 
 officiously our obsequies unto His royal Majesty and your Honours we 
 rest earnest orators for the same unto Divine benignity. 
 
 (Endorsed. 100/. sent by Burlamachi.) 
 
 1626-7, March. Sir James Perrott to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Concerning the monies to be levied in sundry shires of Wales to be 
 employed at Milford Haven for the service of my Prince and safety of 
 my country. 
 
 Sir J. Coke's proposition thereon endorsed, that the Clerks of the 
 Peace make a roll of the levies, and to what use they are made, and that 
 it be kept as a record. 
 
 ? 1627, March. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. " Draft of Instructions 
 for Captain Pennington changed." 
 
 But it falleth out to our great grief and offence that our said dear 
 brother [the French King] suffering himself to be transported by ill- 
 disposed persons contrary to his own just and royal disposition hath 
 taken advantage by our engagement in a war against the King of Spain 
 to break all contracts and obligations and to enter into overt actions 
 not only of unkindness and wrong but near unto open hostility and 
 offence, first having seized all the goods of our merchants in his privi- 
 leged markets upon most unjust and obsolete pretences, and now at 
 last arresting all their ships and goods in his rivers and ports dis- 
 charging our mariners without means to sustain them and manning 
 them with his subjects to be employed against those whom in honour 
 and interest we may net abandon .... 
 
 We have thought fit and upon mature advice with our council have 
 resolved to furnish and set to sea one of our ships of war called the 
 Lion, and one of our pinnaces called the Desire, and nine ships of our 
 merchants called the Globe, George, Primrose, Paragon, Bonadventure, 
 Benediction, Charity, Seahorse, and the Peter and Andrew. Of which 
 fleet we require and authorize you John Pennington, Esquire, to take 
 charge as Admiral ... to set sail and take a straight course with all 
 possible speed and endeavour to go directly into the river of Bordeaux 
 and there find out such ships of our merchants as are under arrest, and 
 to free them from the same .... 
 
 1627, April 2. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. " .Accounts of the Recruits 
 billeted in the Hamlets about the Tower."
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 301 
 
 Buckinghamshir 
 Surrey - 
 Northampton- 
 shire, East - 
 Hertfordshire 
 
 Berkshire 
 
 Northampton- 
 shire, West 
 Bedfordshire 
 
 Oxfordshire 
 
 Somerset 1. 
 2. 
 
 Conductors. 
 
 e Michael Mitchell - 
 
 - John de la Hay - 
 
 \ William Leafield - 
 
 - James Birch 
 f William Bradstock 1 
 
 -} 
 
 \ and John King 
 Robert Knightley 
 
 Thomas Halfpenny 
 Left by their con- 
 ductor, and taken 
 care of by Met- 
 calfe Allington 
 
 - John Mayes 
 
 - Richard Hall 
 
 Left in the 
 
 March. 
 
 21 
 
 
 
 Remain* 
 
 79 
 100 
 
 1 
 
 49 
 
 34 
 
 m 
 
 }.. - 
 
 89 
 
 20 
 
 80 
 
 12 
 
 88 
 
 30 
 
 3 
 9 
 
 There remaineth now billeted - 
 
 97 
 91 
 
 809 
 
 (Signed) Allen Apsley. 
 Raufe Hastings. 
 
 1627, April 3. Portsmouth Harbour. Sir John Jephson to the 
 Earl of Pembroke, Lord Steward and Governor of Portsmouth. 
 
 I have with Mr. Johnson the engineer taken an exact and careful 
 view of the prejudice done in Southsea Castle by the late mischance of 
 fire, the original of the fire grew from the timber which lay as plates in 
 the wall across the chimneys ; thanks be to God the hurt by Mr. John- 
 son's opinion doth not exceed 400/. 
 
 1627, April 8. Harwich. Robert Goodwyn, Mayor, to his Majesty's 
 Council of State for his Majesty's especial and urgent affairs. 
 
 The soldiers vow they will lie no longer on ship-board, and that they 
 will lie this night in Harwich, and that they will have the best beds, and 
 many more mutinous speeches they give out. For the which except Ave 
 be speedily aided by strong authority from your Lordships we cannot 
 secure ourselves nor anything that we have, and they will believe 
 nothing except they see His Majesty's broad seal and his hand. 
 
 1627, April 9. Portsmouth Dock. Matthew Brooke to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Has presumed to send a packet by post using Sir J. Coke's name. 
 
 (Indorsed.) Mr. Saunderson of the Bishoprick of Durham certifieth 
 that in the parish of Brancepeth there are ten thousand trees fit for 
 plank betwixt 30 and 40 feet long, within 14 miles of the river of Tyne 
 to bring it to Newcastle. Prevent the sale. 
 
 1627, April 10. Chatham. William Cooke to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Excuses himself in regard of the Adventure having gone to sea 
 with bad cables after survey by him. As long as I shall carry myself in 
 upright balance, I do request your honour's favour. 
 
 1G27, April 10. Chatham. Josua Downynge to the Commissioners 
 of the Navy. 
 
 The copy of his letter as to fitness of the cables of the IVarspitc 
 and the Adventure. 
 
 1627, April 12. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. "Account of Recruits," 
 Somerset and Herts.
 
 302 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1627, April 12. Dean Forest. William Rowles to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I have been appointed by commission to be employed this ten years. 
 I do desire you to join your love with Sir Robert Pye's tome. I under- 
 stand that other men are labouring to come into this business, which may 
 grow to be a needless charge to the King. I would have attended your 
 Honour, but I do thank the Lord God he hath laid much sickness 
 upon me. 
 
 1627, April 14. Southampton. Robert Rich, Earl of Warwick, to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Sends packets, bulls and papers taken in the Portuguese prize which 
 was bound to Farnham Buche (Pernambuco) in Brazil. 
 
 1627, April 16. A paper headed " Arms and furniture for horsemen 
 removed out of Mr. Gervas Markham his house at East Retford into 
 Mr. Leonard Cosin, Master Bayliff, of East Retford his house, and 
 William Jepson, a Dresser of Armour, his house, there for his Majesty's 
 use till his pleasure be further known to dispose of them." 
 
 The list includes a case of French pistols inlaid with mother-of-pearl 
 whereof the head is of crimson velvet embroidered with gold twist. 
 
 40 close headpieces or caskes 40 pairs of vambraces. 
 2 open headpieces. 42 breasts. 
 
 38 gorget ts. 42 backs. 
 
 41 pairs of pauldrons. 34 pairs of cuisses. 
 
 1627, April 16. Chatham Dock. Josua Downynge to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 The Duke's Grace hath been here and surveyed the ships in dock. 
 He seeth the only defect is want of men. The Rainbow, Repulse, 
 and Vanguard hath fallen down to Gillingham. The Wastspite 
 and Victory will be ready to fall down the end of this week, and 
 the Esperance (I hope) the end of the week following. The Earl 
 of Denbigh and Sir Henry Mainwaring do stay here to see the ships 
 fall down. 
 
 1627, April 17. Howlett. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I intended to have entreated your favour concerning my accounts 
 when I received the French General and Captains aboard at Ports- 
 mouth, which I am sure I put down so sparingly I shall rest a loser, 
 and to give me some assistance for my despatch of the " Garland," 
 which I have had my Lord Duke's commission for these nine months, 
 and have with much charge attended all that time. 
 
 1627, April 18. E. Conway, Viscount KilMtagh, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Asks Sir John Coke to move His Majesty upon a petition of my 
 Lady Suckling in a matter as to which during the life of Sir John 
 Suckling His Majesty did write his own royal letters to the Dean and 
 Chapter of Norwich, to require from them obedience and conformity. 
 
 1627, April 21. Exeter. Sir George Chudleigh to Sir John Coke. 
 
 For the receipt of His Majesty's loans and payment of his debts in 
 Devonshire I have wanted neither welcome nor assistance, but some of 
 the Cornish gentlemen are otherwise disposed towards me, and that 
 their money should be paid them by a Devonshire Treasurer troubles 
 them. They have written to the Lord Steward, their Lord Lieutenant, 
 to procure that office for one of their own. My petition to your 
 Honour is that you will be pleased to further their cashiering of me. 
 A great happiness it will be to me to be freed of that people.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 303 
 
 1627, April 21. Exeter. Sir George Chudleigh to the Earl of 
 Marlborough, Lord High Treasurer. 
 
 Having been appointed Treasurer and Paymaster for Devon and 
 Cornwall, he desires some other to be appointed Treasurer for the loans 
 of Cornwall and Paymaster in that county. 
 
 (Indorsed : Sir Francis Godolphin a fit man and willing.) 
 
 1627, April 23. Welbeck. William Cavendish, Viscount Mansfield, 
 to the Lords and others of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy 
 Council. 
 
 According to your Lordships' commands for the seizing of certain 
 arms to His Majesty's use that Mr. Jervis Markham had in his house, 
 I forthwith executed your Lordships' commands, and he obeyed them. 
 He saith Mr. liobert Terrett, of Kettleby, sold them to him 14 years 
 since, and that he is no recusant, but a good Protestant. 
 
 1627, April 26. Milton. George Tucker to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of His Majesty's Chief Secretaries of State at Whitehall. 
 
 I have employed niy best endeavours for the discovery of Nicholas 
 Stretch. I have made search of all the shipping here for letters 
 directed either to the French agent at the Hague or to any others of 
 note. I will be very careful to search all passengers that may carry 
 such letters. If you would be pleased to send your letters to Billings- 
 gate to any Gravesend waterman to be conveyed to me you shall oblige 
 me. 
 
 1627, April 27. Derby. Sir Francis Coke (brother) to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I have longed to relate to you Sir Henry Shirley his carriage of 
 himself after his coming down from London before Easter sessions 
 last, and how exceedingly graced by my Lord Chief Justice of the 
 Common Pleas our Judge of Assize. He bestirs himself in his place 
 of justice both in Derbyshire and Leicestershire. We have received 
 your letters concerning runaway soldiers and mariners, and are this 
 day met at Derby to take order for that business. We have also 
 received letters for musters. We conceive these things are most need- 
 ful for these times. 
 
 1627, April 28. Gravesend. George Tucker to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's Chief Secretaries of State at Whitehall. 
 
 Here hath officers of the States lain at this town with soldiers for 
 to supply their companies in the Netherlands ; this country is likely to 
 be much endamaged and His Majesty wronged in respect of his want 
 of soldiers. Order ought be soon taken for the pressing of them. 
 Here be divers women come down in the ships among the soldiers who 
 will not suffer them to be taken from them. You would be pleased 
 that a general pass may be granted for all such women as shall go with 
 the soldiers for Denmark. 
 
 1627, April 29. Gravesend. George Tucker to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's Chief Seeretaries of State at Whitehall. 
 
 The soldiers pressed for the King of Denmark out of the City of 
 London are in mutiny for want of cassoeks and other necessaries. I 
 entreat that speedy course may be taken for the suppressing of this 
 faction that they may fall down to their rendezvous. One of them 
 that is of the chieest mutineers I have caused to be safely detained 
 until this bearer shall bring your answer. 
 
 1627, April 29. Philippe Burlamaehi to Sir John Coke. 
 J'ai en ordre de faire acheter 100 lasts de poudre a canon. Jl y en a 
 10 de prets comme j'entcnd d'Amsterdam. 11 serait necessairc qu'il y
 
 304 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 eut un bon navire de Sa Majeste ou autre pour l'escorte et sauve 
 conduite des navires ou la dite poudre sera chargee. 
 
 1627, April 30. Chatham Dock. Josua Downynge to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Rainbow, Repulse, and Vanguard have got down to Queen- 
 borough. The Victory into Tilbury Hope. The Wastspight 
 was forced to come to an anchor. 700 men wanted to fulfil the 
 numbers of the ship. It is here a common bruit that this design 
 is for C. and that divers gentlemen of that place have avoided it for 
 fear. 
 
 1627, April . Philippe Burlamachi to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Les lettres qu'il faudroit sont pour Monsieur Carlton resident pour 
 Sa Majeste en Hollande pour avoir liber te de transporter la poudre, les 
 navires des marchands-aventuriers iront a Delft. L'Ambassadeur de 
 Danemarck commence a presser sa depeche. Hier je fus chez Monsieur 
 le G. T. (Grand Tresorier) mais il ne prit nulle resolution. Voire 
 seigneurie tres illustre pourra y penser selon sa prudence. Nouvelles 
 d'Espagne que les G-enevois avaient enterpris de racheter tout la 
 monnaie de cuivre, si cela reussit L'Espagne pourra dire d'avoir prevenu 
 sa mine. II seriot tres necessaire de faire descendre la riviere les 
 navires avec les soldats, car ici ils s'enfuiront. J'entends que sur la 
 cote de Norfolk il y a 7 ou 8 Dunquerquiers qui attendent le passage de 
 ces gens. 
 
 1627, May 2. Serjeants Inn in Fleet Street. Sir Nicholas Hyde, 
 Lord Chief Justice, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Pursuant to His Majesty's command I have required the Commis- 
 sioners for surveying the Highways in Middlesex to meet at my 
 chamber, and there being a diversity of opinion among them about 
 levying of money to defray charges, I have reconciled their differences, 
 and they are all agreed speedily to pursue a course with effect for 
 amending the ways. 
 
 1627, May 3. John Fincham to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Some there be who have only hindered me in my preferment to 
 the Queen's service with the King. My adversaries be the Lady 
 Falkland and her court friend, with Everard Quassate and Pettenger, 
 the first her ghostly father, the other two they who perverted her. 
 There is no secret passage but I would discover between the French 
 and us. Thus much I beseech you secretly to acquaint His Majesty 
 withal. My Lord Duke is not well conceited of me. I understand his 
 Duchess hath alienated his opinion from me. She is much abused by 
 the Lady Falkland, a most dangerous person I desire to be restored 
 in my repute with his Highness. 
 
 1627, May 4. Deptford. E. Welles to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Amongst many innovations daily occurring, four drums with their 
 appurtenances was sent down to the storehouse yesterday ; this day 
 the choicest of the drums being commanded by Mr. Burrell's warrant 
 out of my hands for the Repulse, I now conclude that the rest are 
 also destined for other inferior ships, and so by degrees it will grow to 
 be a charge incident to all His Majesty's Navy. 
 
 Your Honour's pleasure signified to me hath hindered such exorbitant 
 provisions already. 
 
 1627, May 4. Milton. George Tucker to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of His Majesty's Chief Secretaries of State at Whitehall.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 305 
 
 I can hardly with patience give you notice of the dishonest and vile 
 carriage of these Hamburgers. There is a stay of shipping. I pray 
 the poor officers may have liberty to go. 
 
 1627, May 5. Chalmington, Dorset. Sir Richard Strode to Sir 
 John Coke, at his house on Garlick Hill. 
 
 I have been put out of the commission of the peace. I desire to be 
 helped out of the commission for the soldiers. I am hated by Sir John 
 Strangeways and his side great in this county, for that I complained 
 and did discover in the last Parliament their foul corruption in buying 
 of burgess-ships; also at the Sessions against Sir John Strangeways' 
 father's man for the taking of much money for the discharging of very 
 many pressed men, where the offender answered the matter, and the 
 foulness of his offence was plainly confessed, yet Sir Francis Ashley 
 and Sir John Strangeways did let him go without punishment. Also 
 I have complained against Sir John Browne, one of the same side and 
 faction, for that he did receive money with his own hands for dis- 
 charging some that were pressed, and for that he received coat and 
 conduct money for many soldiers pressed for last Cales (Cadiz) action 
 that went not out of the country, yet the money is not restored. Divers 
 poor people he hath oppressed contrary to law and equity, and they do 
 yet suffer under his powerful and wilful hand. 
 
 1627, May 7. Aboard the Angel Gabriel at sea. Sir Archibald 
 Douglas to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I acquaint your Honour with the small provision of victual which is 
 in the Jacob and the Peter, hoping you will with speed send 
 down the Young Purpose with more victual and our despatch. 
 The Peter hath spent her topmast, but she shall be able, God 
 willing, to accompany us to Denmark. 
 
 1627, May 8. Copy in Sir John Coke's writing of the examination 
 of John Dodd, scrivener, as to copies of papers given to Mr. Whitlock 
 of the Wafery, the original letter having been brought to be copied and 
 paid for by a gentleman whose name he knoweth not. 
 
 1627, May 8. Inner Temple. Ri. Shilton (Solicitor-General) to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 Having order to prepare a warrant for a pension of 500/. on release 
 from Sir Thomas Hinton of a debt to him from His Majesty, I find 
 that the debt is due to the City of London, and cannot be released by 
 Sir Thomas Hinton. 
 
 1627, May 10. Sir Henry Wotton to Sir John Coke. 
 
 God 1 hope will bless your hand in this good work. A great number 
 of honest men will praise you for it. I have altered my testimony 
 according to your direction which 1 hope by your presentment to the 
 King will take some value in transitu. If I meet with fit time to 
 move the two bishops late councillors, I will spend my poor intercession 
 with them. 
 
 1627, May 10. Sir Robert Heath, Attorney-General, to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Divers citizens at several times did lend to the King 160,000/. 
 amongst which and as parcel of that sum Sir Sebastian Harvey lent 
 3,000/.; for these monies and interest for the same the King gave 
 security by mortgage of lands taken in the names of some aldermen 
 and some commoners in trust for all the lenders. This particular debt 
 and interest appears to be about 4,000/. I offer my opinion that Sir 
 U 24963. rr
 
 306 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Thomas Hinton having the administration of Sir Sebastian Harvey's 
 estate shall make an especial release to the King requiring the parties 
 trustees for him amongst others to discharge the King of so much and 
 that this be confirmed by decree of the Court of Exchequer. 
 
 1627, May 12. A letter to the Lord Deputy of Ireland for Sir 
 Richard Bolton, Knight, Chief Baron and Attorney of our Court of 
 Wards and Liveries there. 
 
 We being very and alway ready to countenance such as with courage 
 and affection show themselves forward in the advancing of the just 
 title of our Crown do hereby require you to bestow upon him one 
 wardship of the body and lands of such one as he shall present unto 
 you and by you shall be thought fit. A true copy, as the letter re- 
 maineth upon record in the Signet Office. Windebank. 
 
 [Endorsed by Sir J. Coke. " Court at Theobalds 19 July 1627." 
 Reference to Lord Keeper, Lord Treasurer and others.] 
 
 1627, May 14. Ledbury. Doctor John Hoskins to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Your Honour hath favoured the desire of my servant Richard Poole 
 for his advancement into your service. I have always found him true 
 and faithful and according to his knowledge well affected, 
 
 1627, May 15. Richard Graham to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I have provided two very fair geldings, the like of them will not be in 
 the whole troop. They will stand you in 20/. apiece and two saddles 
 in 50 shillings apiece. I will bestow on you two cases of pistols. I 
 have acquainted my Lord. His saying was these two sent so freely 
 were better than four asked. If you leave it to my Lord to set out men 
 for the horses it will be well accepted. 
 
 1627, May 16. Trinity College, Cambridge. Doctor Anthony 
 Topham to Sir John Coke. 
 
 It pleased the King to promise me the Mastership of our College 
 when it should be vacant. The Duke of Lennox made tender of his 
 humble thanks in my behalf, so that if you would speak unto the King 
 for the seal you might confirm me in my hopes and quiet all other 
 competitors. 
 
 Our most Noble Chancellor gave me good encouragement and promised 
 his best furtherance, being informed of my forwardness and pains in 
 procuring the Duke of Lenox hi3 voice with many other regents when 
 he stood to be Chancellor. If he please to continue to be gracious unto 
 me (being brought upon the stage and my noble pupil his Honour 
 therein so much interested) I shall not fail to express my thankfulness. 
 
 1627, May 16. Richard de Burgh, Earl of Clanricarde, to Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 I desire to know when it will please the Lords that are appointed by 
 His Majesty to end the difference between my Lord of Thomond and 
 me to sit and take the pains to meet about the same, that accordingly I 
 may prepare and be in town. 
 
 1627, May ^f. The Hague. Dr. Michael Jermyn to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Intelligence of operations of King of Denmark at Aachen. Attacked 
 by Tilly and in the North of Germany. A stir raised by Arminians 
 at Schoonhoven (in Holland). By desire of the magistrates Captain 
 Higham, an English Commander who lay in that town with his company, 
 dispersed the Arminians. The Prince of Orange at first in great anger 
 blamed Captain Higham, saying that he understood not that the Captains 
 were to assist the magistrates in matters of Government, but the Captain 
 showed him the edict of the States for it.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 307 
 
 1627, May 19. King's Bench. Kalph Bonington, Senior (cousin) 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Asks Sir J. Coke to use some servant neighbour or friend to be bail 
 for him, Judge Whitlocke being willing to accept bail. 
 
 1627, May 21. Mortlake. Sir Francis Crane to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I informed His Majesty upon Saturday that according to the institu- 
 tion and the practice of former times all significations of foreign elections 
 were to be made under the Seals of the Order and all commissions 
 expedited in the same manner. This His Majesty commanded me to 
 let you know. I do it that with the ceremony which is the essence of 
 this and other Orders the honour of it may be observed. To this 
 purpose there are two seals in the custody of the Chancellor. The 
 Scribe or Register of the Order might, as it was common wont to be, 
 attend the dispatch of businesses of this nature. 
 
 1627, May 21. The Savoy. Dr. Walter Balcanquall to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 This being the day on which I begin a long journey towards Scotland 
 I have taken order for the performance of the search in my absence. 
 God bless your Honour is a part of the prayers of your Honour's 
 faithful servant in Christ Jesus. 
 
 1627, May 22. Deptford. E. Welles to Sir John Coke. 
 Survey of cordage ; the stoved cordage made at Woolwich is best 
 of all. 
 
 1627, May 26. " Abstract of a letter from Captain Driver froir, 
 aboard one of the English ships upon the river of Elbe," as to staying 
 the ships there bound for Spain or Dunkirk. 
 
 1627, May 31. Sir John Burgh to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Is appointed by my Lord Duke Commander of the Vanguard. 
 There is neither surgeon nor surgeon's mate with her, the men of most 
 consideration amongst men-of-war that mean to fight. 
 
 1627, May 28. His house in Gray's Inn Lane, next the fields. John 
 Fincham to Sir John Coke. 
 
 So long as Mey and Griffin and their comrades run sharking up and 
 down from house to house in city and county with an open mouth for 
 the Bishop and Muse. (Musket) will cause them to be more obscure 
 and the longer absent. Sir, they are not able to find these two men, 
 they be arrant fools, and but for your warrant would starve in prison. 
 So long as they run up and down in this foolish tombustuous manner 
 there will be no service done unless they meet a poor indiscreet pr[~iest] 
 in the street. Mr. Cross can daily bring them in, but he hath not 
 stirred. I beseech you burn this or keep it from sight, lest your servants 
 know me or tell Mey and Griffin. 
 
 1627, May-October. Accounts of troops of horse of my Lord 
 Mountjoy nnd Sir William Cunningham. 
 
 Marginal notes. "The whole troop of horse at the first raiding 
 thereof, and at the embarking consisted but of 134 horses (albeit His 
 Majesty's list gave permission for 160) as appeareth under the hand of 
 the Earl of Newport, and so the rates are overcast by about 20 horse 
 per diem, which in the whole time is 556/. 10s. Od.'' 
 
 " Sir William Cunningham had but in all under his command 63 
 horses (as appeareth under his hand) and so the rates arc overcast 17 
 horses pay per diem." 
 
 u 2
 
 308 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir John Coke. 
 
 "The account presented by Sir William Erwin drawn by Peter 
 Bullion, a Frenchman, upon false grounds." 
 
 1627, June 1. Roads of Flyborough (Freiburg in the Elbe). John 
 Jackson to Sir John Coke at his house at Garlick Hill, near Old Fish 
 Street. 
 
 The ships that brought the soldiers went to Stoade (Stade). One of 
 the King of Denmark's ships shot him through and spoiled six or seven 
 of the soldiers, this is the report. Four of that King's ships ride over 
 against Lukstad (Gluckstadt), a new town which the King is building. 
 One Captain Clapmarsh with one ship and a flyboat passed for Russia. 
 One of the ships had in her 29 church bells. 
 
 1627, June 2. Howlett. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke. 
 
 1 gave order at my coming to Chatham that the Mary Rose should 
 repair into Tilbury Hope to take in men. I have expected that in her 
 I may go to Portsmouth and perform the service I received in charge. 
 
 1627, June 2. Ely House. R. Willis to Sir John Coke. 
 As to the mode of settling the revenue of the Hospital and the 
 Almshouse under Dr. White's will. 
 
 1627, June 4. London. An. Bond to Thomas Wilson at the 
 house of Robert Maulton, near Saint Rigoles, at Brussels. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir J. Coke. " At the sign of the Feathers in Fetter 
 Lane this An. Bond dwelleth. Lady Eston. Mr. Bradskaw married to 
 a rich lady." 
 
 1627, June 8. The Court at Southwick. Edward Conway, Viscount 
 Conway and Killultagh, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Sir Benjamin Tichborne, one of my Deputy Lieutenants of this 
 county, having brought before him two Frenchmen carrying several 
 letters to persons in France I committed them to the Gatehouse. I 
 pray you to peruse the letters and to call for the persons and observe 
 whether anything may have been written or intended maliciously and 
 to order the business as you shall see cause. 
 
 1627, June 13. Southwick. Edward Conway, Viscount Conway 
 and Killultagh, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 His Majesty was gone to Titchfield to hunt so that until his going 
 to bed your letters were not signed. Now I return you both that letter 
 to the Emperor of Russia and the letter testimonial which my cousin 
 Verney was a suitor for. My Lord Duke is with great devotion expec- 
 ted here because this country thinks itself threatened with the burden 
 of the army for a month longer. When did the Lord Carleton go away ? 
 must the great work wait ? 
 
 1627, June 17. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I have left no one port from Weymouth round unto Bristol unsearched 
 for the body of Seiton, but it was not my hap to find him. I enclose 
 copies of two relations concerning the French. I cannot be assured of 
 any great force in Spain. 
 
 1627, June 18. Denton. Francis Rogers to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Philippe Dandoine was brought before me by the Constable for beino- 
 landed in a very dangerous and suspicious place between Dover and 
 Folkestone. At first he denied being on the sea, and then confessed he 
 came from Calais in a French boat because his father had goods in a 
 ship which had been taken. There were found about him letters to 
 Seniour du Molline (Seigneur du Moulin).
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 309 
 
 1627, June 19. Southwick. E. Conway, Viscount Killultagh, Secre- 
 tary of State, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 A priest apprehended in Guernsey sent from Southampton to the 
 Court to me. His Majesty commanded me to send him unto London 
 unto you, where he might be under surer guard and better discovery 
 made of him. I conceive he is one of those that hath kept intelligence 
 in Ireland and given advertisement of the preparations in Spain. 
 
 1627, Juoe 25. Portsmouth. Nicholas Johnson (cousin) to Sir 
 John Coke, Secretary to the King's most Excellent Majesty. 
 
 At sight of your letter Mr. Nicholas (Secretary to Duke of Bucking- 
 ham) was so desirous to do your Honour's request that he did both 
 write and speak to Captain Bolton. I go in his ship called the Abra- 
 ham, she is one of the two ships that goes for battering. 
 
 1627, June 27. Nonsuch. Viscount Conway, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The militia did so swell upon me that I ran away. VVhereas there are 
 200 men to be levied in Worcestershire, urges that there should be a 
 less number there than in Gloucestershire. 
 
 1627, June 29. Sir John Wolstenholme, Den. Flemyng, Commis- 
 sioners of the Navy, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Have taken up two ships for the defence of the Islands of Guernsey 
 and Jersey, notwithstanding we understand that the master of the 
 Negro for his own private ends hath procured a warrant from the 
 Lords to transport Sir James Spencer, Ambassador to the King of 
 Sweden. 
 
 1627, July 7. The River of Elbe. John Jackson to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 The Hamburgers send their prohibited commodities to Lubeck. 
 Hamburger ships returned from Spain report great preparations against 
 next year. The King of Denmark has built a bridge over the Elbe 
 S leagues above Hamburg, and wastes the country between Elbe and 
 Weser, because Tilly shall not have relief. Sir Charles Morgan lieth 
 strongly entrenched by Barmen with all the English, two regiments of 
 Dutch and 2,000 horse. Tilly lieth strongly entrenched by him so 
 that their approaches are within a quarter of a mile one of another. 
 The King of Denmark's four ships riding in the Elbe stopped our 
 merchant ships. They have put out to sea, and the Admiral was cast 
 away. Our ship the Adventure has buried two, one now sick of 
 small-pox. The rear Admiral one, the Admiral none. 
 
 1627, July 7, st. novo. Calais. Autoine Miboyse. to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 S'il vous plait vous souvenir de la proposition que je vous ai fait 
 etant aupres de vous a Londres touchant les personnes de l'obeissance 
 do sa Majeste de la Grande Bretagne qui tiennent correspondance avec 
 l'lufant et le Roi d'Espagne, que je vous ferais tenir leurs lettres ecrits 
 en Latin et en chiffre pourvu que vous donniez mille ecus au personnage 
 qui m'envoirerait les lettres et 200 fr. pour le personnage qui moi les 
 apporterait. Si vous etes de cet intention de leur donner les 1,000 ecus 
 il vous plaira moi le faire savoir et que soupconnerde monsieur Pambas- 
 sadeur Joachiny. Le Roi d'Espagne prepare une armee en Galice de 
 40 grands navires, il a aussi arrete tous les navires de Hambourg. 
 L'armee de Dunkerque qui est en Biscaye de 13 ou 14 bons navires 
 s'appretent pour sortir avec 40 barques mais Ton ne dit la route qu'ils 
 doivent prendre ou tenir. Je demeure de Monsieur votre tres affection ne 
 serviteur.
 
 310 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1627, July 8. Agis. [Initials only]. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir John Coke " 280/. sent to Brussels to Mrs. Kathe- 
 rine." Two lists of books of devotion and classical books with prices 
 enclosed. 
 
 1627, July 10. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir John Coke " Sir James Bagge from Plymouth where 
 three Dutch vessels able to transport 700 men, 3 English ships 300. 
 Warrant not treaty must advance the service. Victuals may be speedily 
 supplied so monies may be had." 
 
 1627, July 11. Whitehall. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Captain Frost is principal officer to be sent to Hull as Captain, James 
 Gennet as Lieutenant, and Peter Weatherall as Ancient. Ancient Price 
 to go to Newcastle. 
 
 1627, July 19. Theobalds. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 His Majesty's pleasure that you insert a clause in the instructions for 
 Sir James Spens that he assist Sir Andrew Keith in his pretences to 
 the King of Sweden as far as with reason and justice it shall be fit. 
 
 1627, July 19. Bewdley. William Compton, Earl of Northampton, 
 K.G., Lord President of Wales, to Viscount Kiloulta (Killultagh), 
 Principal Secretary. 
 
 Since I came into Worcestershire, the Deputy Lieutenants earnestly 
 entreat me to move His Majesty and the Lords that this great 
 charge of levying these 200 men for Hull might be spared, in respect of 
 other levies that have been of late for Calais, and that they have paid 
 the loans cheerfully. 
 
 1627, July 20. A St. Jehan en Pile pres Corbeil. Secretaire Pheli- 
 peaux a Monsieur du Moulin etant pour le service du Roi en Angleterre. 
 (Much is in cypher.) La fievre qui ne quitte pas le Roi encore ne lui 
 permette pas de se porter en personne sur les lieux pour recevoir et 
 recueillir le Due de Buquinquan (Buckingham) avec sa compagnie. 
 Incontinent que sa Majeste pourra monter a cheval elle fera son voyage 
 car elle a un desir extreme d'aller voir les Anglais que l'on tient etre 
 es environs de l'lle d'Oleron. 
 
 1627 : July 26. The Camp at St. Martin (lie de Rhe). George 
 Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, to Mr. Secretary Coke. 
 
 A full account of approaches for attack on the French fort, and 
 other operations, movements of ships. Mentions Sir W. Becher, the 
 two regiments of Colonels Bertie and Spry, Sir W. Heydon's Engineer, 
 Capt. Penington. Asks for Cornelis, the Dutch engineer, to be sent, 
 who will come if His Majesty encourage him. He should bring with 
 him the fireworks left behind, also for vessels, munition, stores, pick- 
 axes, shovels, and other tools for work in trenches. We hear from 
 Paris that the King is very sick at Villeroi, where he lies, and no 
 man durst tell him of our landing in this Isle of Rhe. 
 
 1627, July 23. Thomas Coventrye. Marlborough, Bridgwater, 
 Richard Weston, Robert Naunton, John Coke, and Julius Caesar, 
 Lords of the Council, to Sir Ferdinand Gorges and Sir James Bagg. 
 (Copy of letter and signatures.) 
 
 To inquire into the cause of the ship called the Return of Ipswich 
 coming back from the fleet with 160 land soldiers in her, and to inflict 
 exemplary punishment on the offenders who have abandoned the action, 
 and if the officers are faulty to displace them.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 311 
 
 1627, July 26. Easton. Secretary Viscount Conwav to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 His Majesty is so tenderly careful of the maintenance of the troops 
 under Sir Charles Morgan that order was given for one month's pay for 
 them, and he did further require the Lord Treasurer to treat with Mr. 
 Burlamachi for advancing into the paymaster's hands monies for some 
 months yet to come. I conceive it would be good for cutting off dis- 
 putes that a list of the pay should be signed by His Majesty wherein 
 the precise pay of the common soldier may be declared, and the allow- 
 ances to the officers and captains expressed what to receive in present 
 money, and what to be put upon account as debt from His Majesty. 
 The paymaster to give no discouragements to the soldier, but upon all 
 occasions continue hopes to them of money to come in of which he 
 seems to have made them doubtful by the language he hath held with 
 them. 
 
 1627, July 27. The Court at Easton. Viscount Conway to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 His Majesty read over the manifest as you may see by his hand 
 which made divers changes, he wills that the committee revise it and 
 that it be sent to him to Woodstock. I have given warrants for appre- 
 hension of some men to be brought before you. Spies in this state for 
 Spain. His Majesty gives you good testimony of the contentment he 
 hath in your sufficiency and fidelity to his service, at which I also 
 rejoice because I am your fellow secretary. 
 
 1627, July 29. st. novo, Antwerp. Page to Thomas Jennings, 
 Merchant, London. 
 
 Brandenburg has left the gospel (which they call here Calvinism) 
 and is turned Lutheran. He hath approved the Electorship of the 
 Palatine conferred on the Duke of Bavaria by the Emperor. The 
 Prince of Orange is gone towards Groll in Guelderland, wherein lieth 
 in garrison Capt n Norris with an English company. The King of France 
 lies very sick occasioned, as here they report, by news of our English 
 design to land in France. There runneth a rumour that an Angouleme 
 physician visited him, and said the King would die before 28th July, 
 and that he himself would die before the King. He was apprehended 
 and in three days died. By next post we shall knew perhaps whether 
 his prediction was by God's inspiration, the devil's suggestion, physical 
 observation, or fantastical imagination. The King of Denmark hath 
 gone home aud left the Lord of Durlock in his place. From Cologne 
 we have that all the wars in Silesia are ended. Most of the nobility 
 and gentry of France run towards Eochelle to defend France against 
 their old enemies the English. The Dunkirkers which were in Biscay 
 are passed by Scotland to hinder the Hollanders fishing of herrings and 
 whales in the North Seas. I leave you to Jesus Christ. 
 
 1627, July 29. Charles Stelcius to Robert Cudner, in Dutch. 
 
 1627, July 29. Aldertan. Thomas Cary to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The King has commanded me to inform you of an accident that befel 
 the two sons of Sig r Gentilesco whom his Majesty had employed into 
 Italy upon an especial service of his own. Within sight of Calais a man- 
 of-war commanded by Captain Ferine boarded them and notwithstand- 
 ing their passport took their monies and clothes, beating and cudgelling 
 them. The Captain that did this injury is abroad with letters of chart 
 upon the security of four English merchants. Those merchants the 
 King will have your Honour call before you to compel them to make
 
 312 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 satisfaction. His Majesty did bestow on them 150 ; they will now go 
 by Brussels and I must provide for them anew upon his Majesty's 
 charge. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir J. Coke. " Gentilesco's sons rifled. Captain Fern 
 committed. Order to the judge to cause present compensation. The 
 merchants owners not bound, the Captain and master bound, sufficient." 
 
 1627, July 30. Advertisements from Guernsey, " from Peter Carey 
 H.M.'s Eeceiver." 
 
 Eight ships of war at Newhaven (Havre de Grace) and others at 
 Cattes and Harfleur bound for these Islands as is conceived. God 
 preserve us from their wicked intentions and prosper my honourable 
 Lord's coming, whose presence will much encourage the people and be a 
 terror to our opponents. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke " Lord Danby" 
 
 1627, July. Advertisements per Napleton. Seven ships at Dunkirk 
 with above 1,000 men to be landed at Grimsby or Holderness to burn 
 and take prisoners. (Notes indorsed by Sir John Coke.) 
 
 Old Francis having bought cloths under colour of merchandise to 
 pass Flushing and thence to Calais, carrieth over usually women and 
 children. He is to be stayed in all places. 
 
 Mr. G. Shirley's and Mr. Fitz William's Petitions. Committee upon 
 Sir Thomas Roe's letter (bearing the flag). 
 
 Letters of discovery taken by Captain Hart. What to do with the 
 young lords. 
 
 1627, August 2. Thrussington. William Gilbert (cousin), to Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 His cousin Willocke whom he had recommended to be Sir John 
 Coke's servant at Baggrave has become keeper of Bretby Park for 
 Lord Stanhope. Offers himself to perform the former service, but 
 recommends Berry or Hodges for it. Mr. Abney did last year speak 
 that if you would let them lay in their crop of corn they would repair 
 the barns. 
 
 1627, August 3. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. " Memorial of Captain 
 Heydon," relative to the employment of smacks for some expedition at 
 sea and in foreign ports, and for their security by the King's warrant, 
 and that a sufficient convoy be ordained for their retreat. 
 
 1627, August 4. St. Martin's, in France. Nicholas Johnson (cousin) 
 to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Mr. Nicholas' friend Captain Bolton did use me very kindly, and in 
 his ship did give me conveyance and Captain Standish was Avilling to 
 entertain me to trail a pike under him, in whose company I now am. 
 Since we came from Portsmouth I have taken notice of what hath 
 passed each day that came to my hearing ; being but an ordinary soldier 
 I cannot hear all truth, but what I have observed I have sent to your 
 man Mr. Thacker. 
 
 1627, August 4. Nathaniel Butter, Stationer, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 " Books dispersed by him." Explains his allowing " a fellow that 
 had been a customer to his shop " to take away a manuscript of " Secre- 
 tissiraa Instructio," after telling him it was a scandalous railing book 
 not fit for every man to read. For the 3 rd printed book I seeing of it 
 amongst Mr. Wakerlin's (Weckherlin) papers desired him to lend it me 
 for Sir Robert Goulden, promising to return it. 
 
 1627, August 5. Woodstock. William Cecil, Earl of Salisbury, 
 K.G., to Sir John Coke.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 313 
 
 I have received in little volume a large testimony of his Grace his 
 inclination towards his humble servant myself. I wish our glorious 
 master may be made happy with the increase of victory over his 
 enemies. I shall have some occasion to draw me from the Court for two 
 or three days, so as I shall not be at Windsor at his Majesty's first 
 coming. 
 
 1627, August 5, Woodstock. Secretary Viscount Conway to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 His Majesty is ever ready to hear &ny advertisements that come from 
 you and leaves nothing moved by you unanswered. I have now by 
 His Majesty's commandment written in his name to my Lords of the 
 Council to consider of and set down such proportions of victuals as 
 are fit to be presently supplied as well for the 2,000 men to be now 
 sent as for a further provision and supply to those already there, and 
 to take away all excuse His Majesty saitb he hath signed and passed 
 the three bargains. I intend shortly to write to my son Wauke (Wake) 
 to give him an account of the success of our Fleet. 
 
 1627, August 5. Woodstock. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The enclosed from my Lord Deputy. His Majesty conceives the 
 Lord Deputy and Council have just cause to apprehend the danger 
 where there shall be such an attempt in a principal port and so near 
 the place where the state resides. Present course to be taken for some 
 shipping to be instantly employed to clear and secure that coast from 
 the like attempt. 
 
 1627, August 7. Kensington. Sir H. Marten to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I have received your letter of the 3 rd concerning that part which 
 toucheth Captain Ferin and his misdemeanours. 1 hope your honour 
 is satisfied that the Italians are examined. Mr. Chew is not bound, and 
 the bonds which are in the office are ready to be delivered to them 
 who shall have cause to receive the benefit thereof. Concerning the 
 Sallee business I have long expected when the Council would require 
 my attendance. 
 
 1627, August 8. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Letter from the Governor of Calais. A Frenchman did look to all 
 the places both of the castle and the forts. I have commanded him to 
 his chamber. The Venetian Ambassador hath sent his servant to pass 
 over with a warrant under his hand, but I will not upon his letter let no 
 Englishman go. I could wish the King had but 2,000 men ready. I 
 think they might easily take Calais. 
 
 1627, August 9. Windsor. Notes by Sir John Coke- " Account for 
 present services." 
 
 2,000 Rendez. Plymouth 10th September, 400 Rendez. Southampton 
 20th August, 2,000 men for Denmark sent away. 
 
 The Garland to transport 200 men from Plymouth to Jersey. 
 The Entrance under Sir Henry Mervin, with Peter and John to 
 transport Lord Danbie and 200 men to Guernsey. The supply of 
 victuals for the army now at Retz from 8 October to 20 January will 
 require in money 14,000 which the Lord Duke requirtth in money not 
 in victuals. 
 
 " For the Council Board." To deliver the Mayor of Winchester's 
 letter and the list of recusants. To shew the letters of Sir Thomas 
 Jervoise and the Earl of Northampton.
 
 314 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1627, August 9. Kensington. Sir H. Marten to Sir John Coke. 
 The Italians fully satisfied with payment of 276. New caution 
 taken for good behaviour of Captain Fern and his company. 
 
 1627, August 11. Fordeche (Fordwich). Sir John Hippisley to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Incloses a letter to be shown to Lord Holland. 
 
 1627, August 11. Extract from a letter from Grenoble (in French) 
 touching the persecution in Piedmont. 
 
 1627, August 12. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke. 
 
 By an express I send a Dutch skipper's relation of His Grace his 
 absolute couquest of the Isle of Rhe ; the like I have also given to your 
 honour's dearest friend the Lord Conway. 
 
 1627, August 12. His Majesty's house at St. James's, Henry 
 Danvers, Earl of Danby, Governor of Guernsey. 
 
 Instructions for Captain Osborne and Captain Bargrave, Captains of 
 the Loyalty and the Peter and John at this present time employed 
 in His Majesty s service. 
 
 1. You shall both make your immediate repair with all possible ex- 
 pedition unto the haven of Portsmouth there to receive aboard 400 
 soldiers under the conduct of Sir Peter Osborne and Sir Philip 
 Cartwright (Carteret) knights to be transported into the Isles of 
 
 Guernsey and Jersey. 
 
 * * * # 
 
 4. And when you have landed these 400 soldiers, you are both 
 presently to make your return to Portsmouth, there to receive further 
 direction not pretermitting in your way to take or sink any French 
 ships that may with reason be attempted. 
 
 1627, August 14. The Camp at St, Martin's. George, Duke of 
 Buckingham, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Monsieur de Toyras most ignobly and unmanly contrary to the law 
 of arms did attempt with the blow of a knife and an executioner 
 suborned for such a purpose by the taking away of my life to have taken 
 away the fear of the loss of his government The soldier that should 
 have done the deed pretended a flight out of the citadel, and made offer 
 of his service to me. Not long after the knife was found about him and 
 upon offer of the torture and hope of life given he made a large con- 
 fession of the fact. My servant Nicholas writes me word how hearty 
 and affectionate you are in everything that concerns me in this present 
 expedition. We that have entered this Island with the loss of so much 
 blood and have daily new information of the commodities thereof and 
 view it with a hope of an entire conquest of it, think it of itself worth 
 the looking after. 
 
 1627, August 15. Snape. William Cecil, Earl of Exeter, K.G., to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 I have here in this enclosed answered my Lord Admiral's singular 
 favour and expressed what an industrious comment you made over his 
 vaiourous and victorious actions. After a fortnight I shall be at 
 Newark there to stay till the term call me up. I writ lately not sus- 
 pecting two days after to receive so noble a remembrance from him in 
 the midst of his cannons which! think are scarce cool yet. We have 
 no discourse but of the wells by Knaresborough, where there are three 
 wells : one called the Spa alias the Sweet Well, in virtue thought to be 
 not inferior to the Spa ; a stinking well deeply dyed in brimstone to be
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 315 
 
 smelled afar off, and that is held to be of the greatest virtue ; and an 
 extreme cold well of no less virtue than the former that converteth in a 
 short time any thing that is put into it into a stone ; which shortly I 
 mean to see for I dwell not in Creed Street. Your letters were 8 days 
 a coming. My wife remembers her love unto you. 
 
 1627, August 15. Before Groll. Edward Cecyll, Viscount 
 Wimbledon, General of the English forces in the Netherlands, to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Sends letters by Sir Henry Leigh. We soldiers here out of our 
 experience do much commend both my Lord Duke's resolution and 
 success. It seemeth strange to us that the enemy did suffer 2,000 men 
 to be landed and to be ordered before they appeared. Caesar in his 
 Commentaries in the Conquest of England, when it was but guarded 
 with savages, confesseth there that the difficulties in landing did trouble 
 him more than any enterprize he did ever undertake ; therefore I must 
 conclude that my Lord Duke hath enterprized this conquest as well 
 with the fortune as courage of Cajsar, and that there hath not been a 
 braver action performed than this in our days. The citadel of 
 St. Martin is likely to hold out some time, for that it is seated and cut 
 out of a reck. Therefore in my judgment there is nothing so necessary 
 to be used as great grenades of 20 lb. or 25 lb. of powder to be shot into 
 a fort where they shall light they carry houses or any thing as if it 
 were a mine. This effect we have found in the town of Groll that we 
 have so lately taken. 
 
 1627, August 16. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 " Desireth direction what to do with the men sent over by Hugh Rose 
 who should serve the King. The King of France hath proclamed war 
 against England. A French tall black man come from Dover to London. 
 He hath maps of Dover." 
 
 1627, August 16. Bagshot. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 His Majesty sends for copies of the Commissions given to the 
 Colonels and Lieutenant Colonels and private Captains, and the pay 
 of the Regiments now with the Lord Duke, that he may give order for 
 regulating the levies to be made by the Earl of Morton. 
 
 1627, August 17. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Your report of His Majesty's good esteem of my humble service is 
 a great happiness to me. As to the master of that ship, Henry Park- 
 hurst, the Earl of Warwick has given his word for him, and he is 
 bound to attend the Board before 10th September. Sending away 27 
 oxen to make up the hundred, and fifty-four mariners, to His Grace. A 
 Denmarker about the Lands End hath taken 7 or 8 small coal-men. 
 Whilst I am reputed a victualler tho faults of others are made mine, 
 and it grieves me that misinformation should cause my Lord to misjudge 
 of Plymouth provisions. I pray your Honour to be my party for my 
 attendance to give answer for myself. 
 
 1627, August 18. Portsmouth. Sir Peter Osborne to the Earl of 
 Danby at St. James. 
 
 You command me to hasten the transportation of the soldiers, but 
 the ships being not yet come about that are to carry them, and your 
 Lordship having sent me no warraut to press any other I find it im- 
 possible to stir. These seamen being of that rude condition that 
 nothing can prevail with them but compulsion. Unless you take 
 further order 1 must lie here, spend the King's money and lose the
 
 316 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 opportunity of securing those islands, which it is to be feared the French 
 will not overslip to invest them. Besides the Tiger of London, 
 I have gotten Sir Henry Palmer to take up two men of war more, the 
 Violet of Lynn, and the True Love of Shoreham. There being 
 this morning come in to the Cowes a fleet of Sir John Hippisley's 
 whereof Captain Barnaby Burly is Admiral. I have written to him 
 to convoy us over. 
 
 1627, August 19. Bagshot. Lord Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 An examination should be made into the accusation against Sir David 
 Boswell of having embezzled a ship lent to him to be rigged. If the 
 information be not well grounded use shall be made of the ship to go 
 with the rest of the fleet to France and he to command her. 
 
 1627, August 19. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Joy at Calais that was taken, we did see th6 fireworks plain to 
 
 the Castle. The Hollander lies before Calais and Dunkirk daily 
 expecting the ships that are to come from Spain. 31 men are come from 
 Flanders. The death of the Arch Duchess is reported. 
 
 1627, August 20. Indorsed by Sir John Coke : " Sir Henry Marten 
 concerning the treaty with Salley " (Sallee in Morocco). 
 
 Eight exceptions to the terms of the capitulations submitted to him. 
 
 Seven objections to making any treaty with those of Sallee, they 
 bring rebels against the King of Morocco. 
 
 The last objection is, " Whether it will not be a disreputation to a 
 nation who arc scandalised abroad of some inclination that way that we 
 enter into so strict a confederation with such defamed persons, espe- 
 cially having received so much loss and contumely from them, without 
 any recompense or satisfaction ; for notwithstanding what is said in the 
 first article it is 'not unknown upon what terms Mr. Harrison got off 
 those captives who came home with him." 
 
 1627, August 21. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Letters from Lieutenants of Cornwall to the Lords. Captain Squib 
 from Benin hath taken one of nine Lubeckers which came round the 
 north of Ireland : she carrieth pipe staves and deals, but he thinks they 
 have powder and lead. He met Sir Francis Steward (Steuart), who is 
 not taken by the Spanish fleet, neither hath he taken anything. 
 
 1627, August 22. Portsmouth. Sir Peter Osborne to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 The islanders of Guernsey and the Islands belonging thereto, being 
 exempt by their privileges as belonging to the Duchy of Normandy, are 
 not within the restraint of the proclamation against the plantation of 
 tobacco. The Lords of the Council should signify His Majesty's 
 pleasure. For the great gain by tobacco the inhabitants would convert 
 their grounds to that use which might more profitably for the country 
 be employed in tillage. Upon the first arrival of the ships these 
 soldiers will be embarked, but those for Jersey should be transported in 
 other ships. 
 
 1627, August 22. Wellingborough. James Hay, Earl of Carlisle, to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Thanks for good news of my Lord Duke's journey. I pray God 
 increase it and to make me so happy to serve you as your virtue does 
 deserve.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 317 
 
 1627, A ugust 22. Aldershot. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I have acquainted His Majesty with the contents of the Hamburg 
 letters. His Majesty's pleasure is that you assemble such of the Council 
 as are now about London and enter into consideration of the contents of 
 the letters, advise with the Merchant Adventurers and set down such a 
 course for disposing the ships now in the Elbe as may tend most to His 
 Majesty's honour and service and the safety of the merchants. His 
 Majesty is much troubled to understand from Sir W. Beecher that there 
 is yet no news of the ships with victuals nor of the money to be sent to 
 Portsmouth, and hath commanded me to represent to my Lord Treasurer 
 and Mr. Chancellor the sense His Majesty hath of their neglects and his 
 express commandment for present remedy. 
 
 1627, August 23. William Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 There is evidence that Sir David Boswell was offered 200/. for the 
 ship and was in treaty with one Don Albertus to sell it for 300/. 
 
 1627, August 24. Aldershot. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The letters from the town of Lubeck may be considered with those 
 from the merchants of Hamburg. Sends the Bill for Sir Maurice 
 Abbot signed. 
 
 1627, August 24. The Camp at St. Martin's. Duke of Buckingham 
 to Mr. Secretary Coke. 
 
 This bearer, Monsieur Dallbier, I have sent expressly into England to 
 acquaint my master at large with the occurrences here unto whom (the 
 wind now coming fair) I must likewise refer you with assurance that 
 you will faithfully further the business he comes about and so in haste 1 
 rest your faithful friend and servant. 
 
 1627, August 24. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. " The state of present 
 sea services by commission." " Venetian Ambassador." 2,000 landmen to 
 be shipped. Convoy of the Earl of Holland. 
 
 1627, August 25. Grays Inn, the last house next the field. Jo. 
 Fincham to Sir John Coke, with inclosure from Thomas Lane from 
 Wisbech. 
 
 W T isbech Barton is 1,100 acres well worth 300/. a year beside the rent 
 to the Bishop. The tenant will plough it all and abate the land half 
 the value before his lease run out if there be not commandment from the 
 Lord Treasurer. 
 
 1627, August 27. Aldershot. Viscount Conway, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Bargain with the farmers of the petty Customs. Concerning the 
 preparations, though His Majesty finds your diligence unblameable, yet 
 he is much astonished that in actions of so high consequence to his 
 honour and service there should be such slow and remiss proceedings. 
 He wills you to make known to my Lords of the Council how much he is 
 displeased and troubled at these delays, especially for the 2,000 men. 
 Letters from my Lord Duke show what cause there is to hasten away 
 the recruits and the 2,000 men to make good the strength whereby they 
 have environed the Fort round about to take away all means of access. 
 Sir Philip Carteret writes from Southampton that the St. Malo men are 
 preparing a strong fleet for Spain in merchandize. To you that can 
 make a judgment of things before they appear openly in effect I may take 
 freedom to represent the preparations Spinola makes in Flanders. If 
 he should take advantage by the absence of our fleet to make some 
 assault and spoil upon England I leave it to you to judge of the 
 danger. I pray against it, wherein I know I shall not want your 
 company.
 
 318 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1627, August 27. London. Admiral Sir Henry Mervyn to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 Yesterday I had conference with the Commissioners concerning the 
 French shipping. They conceive the strength of the ships under my 
 command much too weak to encounter the French. They think it fit 
 that His Majesty should be moved to write to my Lord Duke to send 
 such forces as he shall think convenient to join with me in this service. 
 I could wish you would be pleased to look on this service not altogether 
 with an eye of frugality but to balance the necessity of the time with the 
 importance of the business. Grant that my Lord may without prejudice 
 to his purposes send ships, yet contrary winds in all likelihood will so 
 retard our sending thither and their coming to us that I rest assured 
 that aid will come too late. The French knowing our weakness will 
 omit no advantages that may expedite their pasaage through the narrow 
 seas to the prejudice and dishonour of His Majesty before our ships can 
 join to make resistance. I could wish that two of His Majesty's ships 
 of the 2nd or 3rd rate could be made ready. The present charge is 
 2,000/. for two ships of the 2nd rate, and 1,600/. for two of the 3rd rate 
 for three months. Though many great employments have exhausted 
 much treasure, yet I hope they have not so necessitated the State as to 
 make it stagger at so small a sum. 
 
 1627, August 27. Kimbolton Castle. Henry Montague, Earl of 
 Manchester, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Busying myself here in setting out of men and gathering up of money 
 I find it more than a week's work. From these parts I have sent away 
 the men towards Plymouth to be there against the 10th of September. 
 From Huntingdonshire is brought in the whole fund. In Northampton- 
 shire as before so still I find more averseness. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Sir Henry Mervyn to give notice of a 
 Scot to go in a ketch to discover the French at Nantes (?). To hire 
 a Dutchman to discover at Dieppe what men and ships are there." 
 
 1627, August 27. Relation of H. Mayne, Captain of the Prosperous 
 of Oreston, made unto Sir James Bagg, of his being boarded at sea and 
 all his victuals and stores and one boy of the captain's taken by twenty- 
 two ships, Flemish built, of St. Malo, near the Bade of Morlaix. They 
 stood to the westward as if for Spain, being ill manned. 
 
 1627, August 27. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 " Short sent to London, Holland ships to be visited whether they 
 carry Flemish goods for France. He will call in his own ships to know 
 of the Lords what men shall repair to Dover Castle upon any alarms 
 there being now but 16, They have viewed and repaired about the 
 coast. His bad writing excused." 
 
 [The above endorsed by Sir John Coke.] 
 
 1627, August 29. Oakinge (Woking ?) Viscount Conway to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 Captain Leslie hath procured directions from His Majesty to my 
 Lords of the Council for assistance to carry voluntaries to the King of 
 Denmark. He is to be assisted with shipping for transportation, as far 
 as former precedent may admit. 
 
 1627, August 30. Oakinge (Woking ?) Viscount Conway to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 Want of formalities of date and names in the letters sent by his 
 Majesty's command is such as I received from Sir William Alexander.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 319 
 
 The Secretary of Scotland being in London you may confer with him Coke MSS. 
 
 about it. His Majesty approved the order taken for stopping the 
 
 mischiefs that may grow by the Biscayers or Dunkirk ships upon His 
 
 Majesty's coasts. A most necessary thing to intercept the intercourse 
 
 between Hamburg, the East countries, and Spain. Surety and provision 
 
 for Jersey and Guernsey. His Majesty is pleased that the order for 
 
 the 2,000 men to be sent to my Lord Duke is so exact. Touching the 
 
 contract with the petty farmers, in conference with His Majesty my 
 
 Lord of Holland produced a paper containing a proposition far inferior 
 
 to the two made by Sir Simon Harvey, of which His Majesty desires 
 
 you will fix upon one. His Majesty wrote back to my Lord of Holland 
 
 from his dining place, which was by accident about Egham, where I 
 
 was not. 
 
 1627, August 27. Stokes Bay. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I do understand that the King of France his ships, built in the 
 Netherlands are arrived at Havre de Grace, 12 of them ships of great 
 burthen, one whereof is guessed to be of about 1,000 ton. Three 
 Dunkirk men-of-war have done much spoil to the westward of this 
 place, and have lately taken eight English barks. I hope order will be 
 taken that 1 have some competent force. 
 
 1627, September 1. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley, Governor 
 of Dover, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Holland ships l-eleased, but goods in one stayed. I hear the King 
 of France is not like to live, and the King of Spain is very sick, but 
 that he hath sent a great man into France to conclude a peace and a 
 joing (joining ?) together against all protestants. I send you many 
 letters that come from the Earl of Argyle by a man whose name is 
 Colvill. 
 
 1627, September 1. The Bailiffs of Yarmouth to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Hamburger ships in this roadstead have sent ashore a letter to be 
 posted to the Lord Duke, which, he not being in the kingdom, the 
 Bailiffs according to their allegiance sent to Sir J. Coke. Our whole 
 assembly have notified the causes why JefTery Neve was dismissed. 
 
 1627, September 3. Stokes Bay. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Hearing of the French men-of-war I stood off to sea, but met with 
 none. A storm. I have seldom been in a greater stress. "We touched 
 upon the Horse, but thanks be to God we were presently free. I met 
 some men-of-war at sea by all of whom I understand of great prepara- 
 tions of the French for the sea at Brest, St. Malo, and ISew Haven 
 (Havre de Grace). 
 
 1627, September 4. London. Viscount Conway to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 There is a poor man in the Gatehouse, Thomas Bradiman, who was 
 committed by you and me. He hath been long a prisoner. I think it 
 were very good he were released, for in punishing him we punish the 
 King at whose charge he lies. I send a letter from my brother Vere 
 in a packet to me. 
 
 1627, September 6. Rochelle. Sir Edward Conway to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Rochelle is really declared, we shall send them 500 men, and when 
 Sir W. Beecher comes as many more. The place to sustain a siege
 
 320 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. requires 8,000 or 10,000. The enemy is making a fort at La Pointe de 
 Corcille which will be very ill for the town. Now that succours are 
 come to us from Ireland we begin to approach, the ground we work 
 is rocky, our number small, the trenches with every rain full of water. 
 
 1627, September 7. Cornbury Park (Oxfordshire). Henry Dan vers, 
 Earl of Danby, K.G-., Governor of Guernsey to Sir John Coke. 
 
 1 am posting into Hampshire to advise and direct those captains 
 ready to embark at Portsmouth, the Castle being made safe by these 
 soldiers, no enemy will attempt those islands, and from Dunkirkers and 
 common men-of-war the country is able to defend itself. Such pains 
 and patience at these years of mine may well merit thanks and respect 
 even in their eyes that sit in authority, only able to censure such as are 
 better than they. 
 
 1627, September 7. St. Martin's Lane. Viscount Conway to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 His Majesty was pleased to acquaint me with the charge he had 
 given to you, and sent me to the Ambassadors of Denmark to speak 
 with them in the same points. I give you thanks for your favour in 
 sending me your draft of a declaration. I must needs approve of it as 
 done with good judgment. If you will have the King's approbation of 
 it, I propose to go to Court this afternoon, and be back again 
 tomorrow. It may be put into Frencn, or what language you will 
 deliver it in. 
 
 1627, September 7. Portsmouth. Captain Francis Sidenham to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 Reports his coming from the Downs with the fleet ftom London. 
 Sir W. Becher told me he will write to you. The soldiers are all ready 
 at Southampton to go aboard. P.S. The soldiers are gone for Guernsey. 
 I purpose to stay for order. 
 
 1627, September 7. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Particulars of ships that may be used to transport the thousand men. 
 I have not yet money or letters from my Lord Treasurer or Sir John 
 Wolstenholme. This shall in no way dishearten me in the King's 
 service or my gracious Lord the Duke for whose commands I am great 
 sums out of purse. The warrant I received from my Lords was ill 
 penned and drawn by the clerk. The Commissioners for the Billet 
 wondered at that which came to them, saying it was not as wanted. 
 
 1627, September 7. The Minories. Jo. Heyden to Sir John Coke. 
 Mr. Bun-ell's delays, Sir W. Russell's diligence. The four Ketches 
 ready in two days. 
 
 1627, September 8. Copy of a letter to His Majesty (draft in Sir 
 John Coke's writing). In the dispatch of Mr. Heydon and Cornelius 
 (Cornilis ?) we have used such expedition that this day they purpose to 
 set sail, and that secrecy that Mr. Burrell, who hath prepared the four 
 barques, knoweth nothing of the design. The Texel is the place we 
 aoree upon for execution of this service. The proposition in your 
 Majesty's presence for the employment of the Turkey ship made much 
 clamour without fruit. The project of Lord Arundel tendeth more to 
 his own than your Majesty's profit. His conditions 1 send here inclosed 
 of his own writing. His Lordship proceedeth not according to the 
 honour of his degree, but will bargain like a merchant for this his secret.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 321 
 
 I much fear this will prove like a former proposition of his Lordship 
 for surprising Oslend, wherewith he would have engaged the Lord 
 Conway. 
 
 1627, September 15, N.S. The Hague. B. Gerbier to the King 
 (in French). 
 
 Information from Paris as to Mission of Don Diego Messia. His 
 illness perhaps feigned. The Infanta desires an accommodation 
 between Kings of Spain and Great Britain. 
 
 1G27, September 9. Edward Sackville, Earl of Dorset, to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Noble Sir, this afternoon the Countess of Kildare will visit you. 
 I pray (if you hold me a person worth the obliging) be pleased to render 
 her and her requests as much respect and favour as I will upon any 
 recommendation pay unto your commands. She is a lady out of date, 
 and, therefore, I may the more confidently Intercede in her behalf, but 
 she hath strains in her of the ancient nobility, and is one who will 
 deserve all courtesy. 
 
 1627, September 10. London. Viscount Conway to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I sent you on Saturday morning the Declaration with such correc- 
 tions as His Majesty gave to it. Captain Pell desires he may have 
 Ensign Baskerville to be his officer, who likewise desires it. 
 
 1627, September 10. Ford. George Abbot, Archbishop of Can- 
 terbury, to the King's most Excellent Majesty. 
 
 I received your commandment by your Majesty's Secretary the Lord 
 Conway, that I should withdraw myself into Kent, which accordingly 
 I performed so soon as it was possible for me to make provision of 
 necessaries for myself and for my family. And as I received advertise- 
 ment that it was your pleasure, I am now remaining at Ford, a house of 
 the Archbishopric, where I shall not cease daily to pray for your 
 Majesty's safety and prosperity. My humble suit and request is that 
 your Majesty will vouchsafe to hold me, your poor servant, in your 
 good opinion. 
 
 1627, September 10. Youghal. Henry Gosnold to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Asks as recompence for 20 years' service in this remote province and 
 loss of 2,000/. spent out of his own monies, and of other 2,000/. by his 
 place in the Verge Court being wrested from him by the Marquis of 
 Hamilton, a lease for 32 years of all His Majesty's reliefs and heriots 
 in this kingdom (Ireland). 
 
 1627, September 10. Sherborne. Captain Christopher Levett to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 I send a letter from a gent, a servant of mine in New England. 
 In my opinion it were great pity His Majesty should lose such a country 
 but a thousand times more pity that his enemy should enjoy it. If he 
 should, I can assure you he would be as well fitted for building of ships 
 as any prince in the world, and not the worst provided for victualling of 
 his ships, I know as well how to make that country good against an 
 enemy as any subject His Majesty hath at no charge at all in comparison. 
 
 1627, September 12. Theobalds W. Welde to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Sends letters. My Lord of Holland told me that he had directions 
 from His Majesty to write to you to cause the Committee to take into 
 their consideration the complaint touching the trade between Franco 
 U 24963. X
 
 322 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSB, and the Low Countries, and to wait upon His Majesty here at Theobalds 
 and deliver their opinions what freedom is fit to be admitted in that 
 trade and what satisfaction to be given in the present complaint. 
 
 1627, September 13. Aboard the Garland in Stokes Bay. Sir 
 Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke. I shall set sail this morning for the 
 west. The ships for Guernsey put to sea and were driven back, but 
 remain at the Hurst, expecting wind. Mary Rose and Entrance 
 with them. Dunkirkers to the west. 
 
 1627, September 13. The Minories. Jo. Heyden to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I could wish His Majesty were acquainted with Mr. Burrell's in- 
 excusable negligence and indiscretion. Every day I find more instruments 
 employed which may make the business more public. I have not 
 acquainted any soul with the least particular more than Mr. Cornelius. 
 
 1627, September 15, N. S. The Hague. B. Geibier to the King. 
 
 L'on m'a envoye une lettre en chiffre de Paris datee du 25 d'Aoust, 
 dont la teneur est Je vous conjure de faire savoir promptement au 
 Roi de Grande Bretagne et a M. le Due de Buckingham votre maitre 
 que le Roi de France a obtenu du Roi d'Espagne un secours de 
 soixante vaisseaux lesquels seront prets dans un mois pour rencontrer 
 la flotte laquelle est aux lies. Le courier est parti pour Espagne ; a 
 son arrivee ils doivent faire voile. Le Roi de France a supplie les 
 Ambassadeurs d'Espagne a mains jointes de l'assister en une si poignante 
 
 occasion L'Infante a ecrit a Mirabel qu'elle est au desespoir 
 
 de ce que le Roi d'Espagne fait pour le Roi de France ; qu'elle desire 
 avec passion l'accommodement ehtrel'Espagne et PAngleterre, tellement 
 que l'on la doit presser, parcequ'elle fera tout les efforts pour empecher 
 ce secours promis. Voila ce que contenoit la susdite lettre. Sire, la 
 longueur de la maladie de Don Diego Messias de la quelle les lettres de 
 Rubens faisoient mention m'avoit fait penser s'il n'y avait point de 
 l'artifice .... Les lettres qui sont arrivees aujourdhui des 
 Ministres publiques font touts mention de la dite flotte, disent qu'elle 
 
 doit etre aux iles le 15 me de ce mois Jecrirai amplement a M. le 
 
 Comte Carlisle ou Canove ceque l'on me mandera de ce Don Diego. 
 . . . . Le Cardinal amuse les Etats a ne se preparer eontre la flotte 
 d'Espagne, sachant assurement qu'il a fait croire a ce Lourdaud 
 d'Ambassadeur de Hollande a Paris quil n 'attend nullement les vaisseaux 
 d'Espagne, mais au contraire qu'il vouloit la paix d'Angleterre par leur 
 entremise, qui n'est qu'une artifice pour se moquer et les amuser. 
 . . . . Don Diego Messias est arrive malade a, Bruxelles, le 9 me de 
 ce mois, ou il fit entree en une litiere. Rubens y est. 
 
 1627, September 15. John Eachard, Robert Sayer, Bailiffs of 
 Yarmouth, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 We are restrained from trading into the ports of France, where 
 extraordinary quantities of herrings were constantly vended. The want 
 whereof we fear will be the utter overthrow of the said trade. We pray 
 a grant to the Corporation of licence to export 600 or 800 lasts of 
 herrings in strangers' bottoms. 
 
 1627, September 15. Ledbury. Jo. Philipps to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Acceptance of your servant R. Poole on my bold motion binds me to 
 thankfulness. Cheeses sent. The pastor of Ledbury, lecturer of 
 Hereford, forgets not your encouragement in his calling.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 323 
 
 1627, September 16. Philippe Burlamachi to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Pour supplier sa Majeste de vouloir daigner d'ecrire a son Agent 
 en Savoie pour inipetrer s'il est possible quelque relache a ses pauvres 
 gens en leur affliction. L'avis vient de personne fidele de Geneve. Je 
 m'assure de votre zele et bonne affection a la religion. 
 
 1627, September 17. Theobalds. W. Welde to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Encloses a letter. Eolls the messenger now ready to go for the Low 
 Countries lodgeth at the Blue Anchor in Little Britain hard by my 
 Lord's house, He hath his money for coming and going back for my 
 Lord gave him a warrant. I beseech you put this inclosed from my 
 Lord to the Lord Carleton in your packet. 
 
 1627, September 17. Harwich. Sir Sackville Trevor to Sir John 
 Coke (not signed). 
 
 I would fain know how far to proceed with the Dutch East India 
 ships, whether to take them by assault, fire them, or sink them. Captain 
 Duppa with three ships rides in harbour by me, but refuses to go to 
 sea with me unless he has a letter under six of the Councils hands. I 
 beseech you decide this business for I have much ado to keep all the 
 men in our fleet from going by the ears with them. Men arc gone to 
 London where they hear merchants give them 30s. a month. Captain 
 Allen hath 16lbs. of bread to London that the Commissioners may see 
 how mouldy it is, so that his men cannot eat it. 
 
 1627, September 18. Theobalds. W. Welde to Sir John Coke. 
 
 My Lady Yere is much afflicted that she cannot get a convoy by some 
 good ship. If there be a ship appointed to fetch over the Abbot Escaglio 
 from the Low Countries it might haply serve my Lady Vere's turn; or 
 if she might be wafted over the Channel till she may come within a 
 reasonable distance of the Dutch shore she would desire no more. 
 
 1627, September 20. Trinity College, Cambridge. Daniel Green 
 to Sir J. Coke, Tottenham and Garlick Hill. 
 
 Is afraid that the Master and Seniors will not indulge him to keep 
 his fellowship longer. Asks for Hadstock in the gift of the Lord Keeper. 
 I wait your pleasure as to the disposal of your two hopeful sons. Your 
 elder son will prove a good tutor to the younger by instructing him and 
 giving him an example of diligence. 
 
 1627, September 20. Aboard his Majesty's ship the Happy 
 Entrance riding in Mead Hole by the Cowes. Captain James Mervyn 
 to Sir Henry Mervyn, Knight, Admiral of the Narrow Seas lodging at 
 Mrs. Bottomley's house joining on the Common Garden going into St. 
 Martin's Lane: or in his absence to Mr. Nicholas, Secretary to the Duke 
 of Buckingham, at his house in Channel Row or elsewhere. For His 
 Majesty's most especial service, September 20, past one in the afternoon 
 1627. 
 
 Three East India ships promised to come into Portsmouth, but now 
 will only anchor under the Cowes, they expecting 15 sail of Holland 
 men of war to waft them. I entreat you send me an order from the 
 King's hand or the Council which they must obey or expect violence. If 
 you can excuse my going and Sydenham's to Guernsey, I will ply 
 towards Plymouth where lie English East Indiamen would be glad of 
 a convoy. 
 
 1627, September 23. The Poads before Lee. Captain John Heydon 
 to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Particulars of falling down the river, towing with oars, waiting at Lee 
 for the ketches of London. All assembled at the Rendezvous. It will 
 
 x 2
 
 32 i HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke ALSS. De to-morrow morning before we shall be able to get over the sands, yet 
 we shall recover Margate before to-morrow noon if the wind any way 
 favour us. 
 
 1627, September 24. The Texel. John Clark to Lord Carleton, 
 Ambassador Extraordinary for His Majesty of Great Britain in the Egg 
 (Hague?). 
 
 Being at Alkmaar I did speak with a pilot that came with the 15 ships 
 which came from Spain. On the way they took seven Hollanders, laden 
 with French wines, three Englishmen bound for France laden with fish 
 and other goods, and so they went for Spain. They put twice to sea 
 and took two Turks men of war, and so they went bound for Dunkirk, 
 and coming to the mouth of the Canal they did see a great fleet which 
 they did take for Hollanders, but it being English they set their course 
 to come about Ireland fearing the English fleets. They went on the 
 north parts of Ireland on land and took 400 beasts and set some houses 
 on fire, and so came for Scotland. There they found one man of war 
 that was alone, and fought about three hours and took him, a new ship. 
 After they came into the herring fleets where they sunk one ship and took 
 two and sunk about 30 busses, and did not set directly for Dunkirk, so 
 they came in safe, where they made great joy. They are the same ships 
 your Honour spake of. Describes the ships at the Skell, French and 
 Dutch. They do expect 500 men out of France for these ships. 
 
 1627, September 24. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I send a list of the ships I have provided for transport of 1,000 
 soldiers. The service was and should have been done without Sir H. 
 Mainwaring's coming to Plymouth, whom I desire to he a spectator and 
 not to perform the duties of James Bagg to his Sovereign, given by the 
 pen of your Honour. Sir Wm. Beecher went from Falmouth upon 
 Tuesday last. 
 
 1627, September 25. Dublin. Charles, Lord Lambert, to Sir John 
 -Coke. 
 
 Is living in his father's place. It is every mans wonder that having 
 been so long about his Majesty and the son of a father whose deserts 
 would sufficiently plead for me, that I am only without a company. 
 Asks that he may have a troop of horse to be accounted of the old 
 establishment. By your honour's noble favour herein you will oblige 
 me to a thankful requital. 
 
 1627, September 25. Han worth. Sir Thomas Cottington to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 To the letter from Mr. Clarke in Hamburg I beseech you send the 
 enclosed answer. I am beginning a journey into Wales which will cost 
 me a fortnight's time. 
 
 1627, September 27. On board ship at Cowes. Captain Henry 
 Mervyn to Captain Towerson at Portsmouth. 
 
 The East India ships on sight of the Council's warrant obeyed the 
 arrest, condescending to come into Portsmouth. 
 
 1627, September 28. Hampton Court. "Viscount Conway to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 I have luckily met your letters by Sir Fulke Grevill. His Majesty 
 hath commanded me to let you know he expects you here tomorrow as 
 of custom, and that you bring with you an exact account of the state 
 all things stand in belonging to the expedition to the Duke. Some two 
 or four good sailers should be ready about Plymouth to go and come 
 with His Majesty's deliberations hence and intelligence from thence.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 325 
 
 1627, September 28. From on board in Cowes Roads. Sir Henry 
 Mervyn to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The East India ships have submitted themselves to His Majesty's 
 pleasure. I have put on board 60 men and pilots and they shall be 
 brought into the harbour. Now having these ships under command 1 
 thought it fit to despatch away the soldiers to the Islands of Guernsey 
 and Jersey. My son was far from questioning the power of a warrant 
 from yourself, being a Secretary of State. I will be careful in the 
 search for the men of Amboyna. I have spoken with a ship that came 
 from the Texel. He assures me that the French ships are not yet come 
 together. I fear that if Sir Sackville Trevor be sent before such times 
 as our ships meet to join, His Majesty may lose honour. We want about 
 300 men. I see but small hopes of getting any here. 1 beseech your 
 Honour, if you can think of any course to supply us, to give order 
 therein, especially for 20 able gunners and some 16 able men for masters, 
 mates, and quarter-masters. 
 
 1627, September 29. Stokes Bay. Sir Henry Mervyn to Sir J. 
 Coke. 
 
 The East Indian ships came this forenoon into harbour at Portsmouth. 
 The wind being contrary hath put back again the Guernsey soldiers- 
 Victuals will be needed for the Loyalty and the Peter and John. 
 The ordnance for the George came in this morning. 
 
 1627, September 29. Chatsworth. W. Earl of Devonshire, W. 
 Viscount Mansfield (Cavendish), Sir Ri. Harpur and Sir Francis Coke, 
 Commissioners, to Sir John Coke, Knight, His Majesty's Principal 
 Secretary. 
 
 If their Lordships (of the Council) will be pleased to hear this 
 commission, which we now make return of into His Majesty's Court of 
 Exchequer and our letter read, it would inform them thoroughly in the 
 lead business, especially if they hear read first the commission, then the 
 letter, then the propositions annexed to the commission, first thoae of 
 the owners of the soil, and then those of the miners and other original 
 owners of ore. 
 
 1627, September 29. Plymouth. Sir Henry Mainwaring to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 The two ships prepared by Sir James Bagg are ready to transport 
 the thousand soldiers, but scarcely of sufficient force, recommends that 
 the Hector lately employed by the Earl of Warwick be sent, taking 
 300 mariners that will be acceptable to the Lord Duke to supply the 
 want at St. Martins. 
 
 1627, October 1. Edmonton. Thomas Alured to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The enclosed letter I lately received from the camp at St. Martin's. 
 It makes relation of the death of a gentleman who married my wife's 
 sister. He hath not left her ten pounds in all the world. Divers 
 fatherless infants. He did service and died in it. My late motion 
 your Honour intended to some public recompense ; if it stood with your 
 liking it might be applied to this poor satisfaction, if not all yet the 
 half, the other remaining in your Honour's dispose for recompensing 
 or relieving others in the like kind whereof you will have several 
 suitors. 
 
 1027, October 1. Sir Henry Marten, Judge of the Admiralty Court, 
 to Sir John Coke. 
 
 1. For the answer to the States Ambassador. It is well known to 
 your Honour how infinitely greedy of trade and in governing all trade 
 that nation is. I find it is agreed that there were some enemies' goods
 
 326 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 in the two ships taken hy Sir John Hippisley. I should like this 
 answer better if all from these words [ ] to those words 
 
 ] be left out, the rest being sufficient without trenching 
 upon questions the decision whereof may prove prejudicial to ourselves 
 hereafter. The Lord Ambassador's rules are true, but how are these 
 applied against Sir John Hippisley unless it be assumed that it is unlaw- 
 ful for a man of war with letters of reprisal to visit their ships going for 
 France. It was unlawful for them to transport into France an enemy's 
 goods and lawful for Sir John Hippisley to take them, and the seizing 
 of their papers was but a necessary means to prove his action lawful. 
 
 2. Concerning the answer to the Lubeck Secretary. I think the second, 
 general grievance is mistaken. Prohibita et illicita tantum confiscari, 
 cetera libera pronunciari. Licita cum illicitis, prohibita cum concessis, 
 navis ipsa una cum mercibus siqua saltern pars earum prohibita sit, 
 confiscari debere, is agreeable to the last proclamation. 
 
 3. The Sallee business. J can say no more than I have formerly said. 
 
 1627, October 2. St. Martin's Lane. Viscount Conway to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 His Majesty's pleasure is that the Frenchmen stayed by the Lord 
 Sunderland shall be dismissed as a compliment and courtesy due to the 
 King of Denmark. The Dutchmen that ran away with the Captain's 
 ship are to be continued in safe keeping. For the drawing of the King 
 of Sweden into the League his Majesty approves it. 
 
 1627, October 3. Harwich. Sir Daniel Borsville to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Having orders to join Sir Sackville Trevor was prevented by con- 
 trary winds from arriving at Harwich till four days after he had left. 
 Asks if he is to follow that a pilot may be sent to conduct him to the 
 Texel. 
 
 1627, October 6. Copy. Authority by the Lords (12) and Order 
 of Commissioners (Sir J. Wolstenholme, Sir W. Eussell, Sir J. Osborne, 
 and Dan. Fleming), for pressing ships and men in the port of Plymouth 
 and members of the same, and the ports of Poole, Weymouth, Dartmouth, 
 and Falmouth, or any other the ports adjacent for transporting of 
 soldiers and provisions into the Isle of Retz. 
 
 1627, October 8. Examination concerning Captain Sacheverell. 
 Michael Barcksteed of the parish of St. Clement Danes without Temple 
 Bar, London, Goldsmith, sworn and examined before Doctor Sames, 
 Surrogate to Sir Henry Marten, Judge of the High Court of the Admiralty. 
 Saith he first came acquainted with Cap* Sacheverell at one Mr. Brad- 
 ford's house, an upholsterer in the Strand a little beyond Somerset 
 House, at the sign of the Golden Ball, that he bought of Captain 
 Sacheverell in Barbary gold in coin called Saltanares and such like, 
 but no ducats, that he saw in his possession two or three little ingots of 
 gold about the length and thickness of a man's finger, which Captain 
 Sacheverell would have sold to him but he refused to buy them because 
 they were uncertain gold. 
 
 1627, October 10. Ford. George Abbot, Archbishop of Canterbury 
 to the King's most Excellent Majesty. 
 
 I am sorry to hear that your Majesty should take in evil part my 
 conferring of the vicarage of Lid upon Mr. Dean of Canterbury a 
 chaplain of your own, and a man very weakly provided for considering 
 the place which he carrieth in this country. I did nothing but hy the 
 advice of learned counsel for the safety of my charge and preservation 
 of the patronage of the Archbishop in succession . . . whose rights and
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION* 327 
 
 liberties I am bound by oath to maintain. But I hear that Mr. Lovet 
 hath given out of me that I should say that if Mr. Dean of Canterbury 
 should resign the benefice unto your Majesty I would not grant it to 
 your use. but bestow it upon one of my chaplains, which words T. do 
 absolutely deny. Mr. Lovet asked me whether I could bestow it on 
 him, which I said I would not do, but I had chaplains of mine own, 
 worthy men. 
 
 1627, October 10. George Abbott, Archbishop of Canterbury, to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries to His 
 Majesty. 
 
 I pray you deliver to the King's Majesty this . . . Being here out 
 of the way, I understand not how my own business fareth at London or 
 the Court. 
 
 1G27, October 12. A letter from the States Deputies [Heinricq 
 Nebal, J. Van Reckteren, and five others] to Captain Allen, asking for 
 a meeting at the Helder village, and copy of his reply stating that an 
 officer must not leave his ship in a foreign port, that he is about to 
 depart, and that the matter is remitted by him to the Ambassador Car- 
 leton. (In French.) 
 
 1627, October 13. Sir Rauulph Crewe to Sir John Coke. 
 
 In fortunes adverse friends often fail. It is my lot to be cast aside, 
 and I humbly submit myself to God's pleasure in it. Mr. Vernon takes 
 the opportunity of my disgrace and endeavours to insult upon me. I 
 stayed his father from exhibiting a bill against him in the Star Chamber 
 and there is much more to be said against him than my petition com- 
 prehends. His Serjeants writ being returnable upon Saturday come 
 sennight, it were for his honour if he were set by and a stay made of 
 his intended preferment. I shall entreat your favour that I may add a 
 word to my petition and will instantly return it. I shall beseech your 
 favour in that measure you shall think fit and safe for you to show it. 
 
 1627, October 18. Portsmouth. Sir Henry Mervyn to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 We have taken 100 men out of the East Indian ships, and have 
 pillaged and robbed the Charles of men and victuals aud almost all 
 she hath. This night my Lord of Holland goes on board and to-morrow 
 morning, God willing, we set sail for Plymouth. 
 
 1627, October 19. Whitehall. Viscount Conway, to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 The actions both of the Duke of Holstein and that town of Lubeck 
 have deserved a great change in the style to them. 
 
 The variations of sense and deliberations have multiplied directions 
 some directly contrary. The last conclusion that, so soon as Sir John 
 Chudleigh's squadron shall arrive at Plymouth, the Lord Wilmot shall 
 haste all aboard, landmen with every pertinent, and without staying for 
 my Lord of Holland go to find the Duke. 
 
 1627, October 22. On board the St. Georye at Yarmouth. Sir 
 Henry Mervyn to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Lord Holland rude post to Plymouth. A storm from South West, 
 if God had not mercifully preserved us we had been all castaway. I 
 protest to God I never saw ships sent to sea so ill accommodated that 
 was so long preparing. I intend to sail for Plymouth with the next 
 wind.
 
 328 .HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1627, October 22. Harwich. William Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I caused a drum to be beaten about in all places here adjoining to 
 summon all mariners to repair aboard the ship whereunto they did 
 belong. Many gone to London have returned but continue mutinous 
 for want of money. I am desirous to get the prize aground to be 
 graved and leaks stopped. A master should be sent down to her to see 
 to the mounting of her ordnance and fitting of her rigging. 
 
 1627, October 24. Copy. Testimony of eight Captains that, 
 having been ordered by Sir Sackville Trevor, Admiral of the Fleet, to 
 go to Wering Flats to destroy the French ships, they found they had 
 passed over the Flats and could not be overtaken till under command 
 of Encuysen (Enkhuisen), 
 
 1627, October 25. Plymouth. Sir John Chudleigh, to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Ready to set sail, but at my Lord of Holland's coming aboard the 
 wind came up contrary. The victuals in all our ships wastes, if we 
 have but a proportion to carry us to the sight of St. Martin's, we 
 will adventure to proceed. We hear nothing of late from my Lord 
 Duke. 
 
 1627, October 25. Westminster. Sir Ranulph Crewe to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 My petition hath no reference to that business for which the King 
 took offence against me. I humbly submit myself to the will of God 
 and the King and pray for patience. Asks the return of the petition. 
 
 1627, October 27. Swithland. W. Danvers (cousin) to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 For his neighbour W. Monck, who has endured great torture by the 
 unjust accusation of John Blackburn and Dorothy his wife, who absent 
 and shroud themselves by the means of Ellis Wynne and Greorge 
 Scrivener, to the great impoverishment of W. Monck his wife and 
 9 children. 
 
 1627, October 30. The Castle of Dublin. Henry Gary Viscount 
 Falkland, Thomas Roper Viscount Baltinglas, Hen. Docwra, 
 Fr. Aungier, W. Parsons, Ri. Bolton, Dudley Norton, Ad. Loftus, the 
 Lord Deputy and Council of Ireland, to the King's most Excellent 
 Majesty. 
 
 Upon knowlege of your Majesty's pleasure we have given directions 
 to all the agents for hastening their repair into England. We conceive 
 no jealousy of any ill intentions they can have against any of us. When 
 we shall receive the commission and your Majesty's directions for 
 levying of the army, the same shall be punctually put in execution with 
 all care and diligence. 
 
 1627, October 30. Cornbury Park. Henry Danvers, Earl of Danby, 
 to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I present you a fat doe as some part of my sport to testify by this 
 little token the great power your Honour hath in the love of Danby. 
 
 1627, October 31. Dartmouth. Captain Christopher Osborne to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 I gave advertisement from Guernsey of our arrive there and the safe 
 landing of the 200 men sent thither by His Majesty, of whose royal 
 care of their safety the inhabitants seemed to me not to show themselves 
 so worthy, being backward to make the necessary provisions as all other 
 places do. Your Honour will receive more particular information from
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 329 
 
 my brother Sir Peter Osborne. By a foul grown storm I was forced 
 to put into Dartmouth, where I am now attending a wind for Portsmouth. 
 I humbly desire an order for victualling. 
 
 1627, October 31. Portsmouth. Jo. Bond and Matthew Brooke to 
 Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The Conrertyne cannot go on the intended service; she may be 
 brought to Chatham. The men should be kept from scattering. 
 
 , , Portsmouth. J. Bond to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Gives reasons for taking his ship to Chatham instead of refitting at 
 Portsmouth. 
 
 1627, October . Plymouth. Sir James Bagg, to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 The Hector fit for service. The ships there ready ; only the 
 Fellowship made unserviceable. St. Jarmans (St. Germans) ex- 
 empted from billeting, a favour to Sir John Elliot : this he hath gained 
 out of some conceit to popularise himself among his Western friends 
 and faction. These poor ways of his and others of his mutinous opinion 
 gain much upon those that are ignorantly disaffected. 
 
 (1627), October. Two papers indorsed " The States Deputies first 
 writing with Capt. Allen's answer." 
 
 1. Memoire de ce que le commissaire de Wael aura a dire au vice- 
 amiral de sa Majeste - de la Grande Bretagne . . . pour la requerir 
 se vouloir trouver aupres de dits Deputes ce soir ou demain . . . 
 
 2. Memoire de ce que le present porteur aura a dire t\ Messieurs les 
 Deputes de Messeigneurs les Etats Generaux des Provinces Unies. 
 
 Le Commissaire de Wael a communique au vice-amiral de sa Majeste 
 de la Grande Bretagne votre proposition requerant qu'il se trouverait 
 aupres de Votre S rie au village appele Heider sur quoi il a trouve bon 
 de repondre qu'ayant la charge de quelque nombre de navires et vais- 
 seaux appartenants a sa dite Majeste ii n'a trouver convenable 
 d'eloigner sa personne de sa charge . . . et pourtant priait les dits 
 Deputes de se vouloir contentcr plutot de specifier leurs plaisirs par 
 ecrit que par bouche . . . 
 
 1627, November 4. Sir John Wolstenholme to Sir John Coke. 
 The want of mariners is the fault of the masters for the saving of 
 victuals and wages, not to fill up the number till their ships be laden. 
 
 1627, Novembers. Buckden. John Williams, Bishop of Lincoln, to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 The command you were pleased to deliver unto me in July last, when 
 I came to my poor Deanery of Westminster but for four or five days 
 to despatch the election of His Majesty's scholars to both the Universities 
 and that College, that I should forthwith return into my bishopi-ick, 
 hath made me not to presume to come until His Majesty's pleasure were 
 first understood. I beseech you to present my most lowly and humble 
 petition to His most Excellent Majesty that I may upon these necessary 
 occasions (the Chapter of our College) repair thither if my sick and 
 crazy state of body will so permit. 
 
 1627, November 6. Aboard the Mary Rose, Stokes Bay. Captain 
 Francis Sidenham to Sir J. Coke. 
 Asks for powder and flags. 
 
 1627, November 6. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke : " Gaspar Despotin's 
 Case."
 
 330 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Gaspar Despotiu, doctor of physic, a Venetian born, by Sir Henry 
 Wotten was brought in England the year 1610, when he was sworn 
 servant to the King. His father and mother having died, his inheritance 
 in Venice is withheld, under a false pretence that he being a heretic 
 cannot by the law of Venice inherit. His Majesty to intreat the Prince 
 and State of Venice that the said Gaspar be not molested under any 
 colour of religion, but may have his right at Venice in the same 
 fashion that the King's subjects going to Venice to serve that state have 
 ever enjoyed theirs here, without being in any way molested in their 
 goods or estate. 
 
 Draft by Sir J. Coke of a Latin letter from the King to the Doge of 
 Venice. 
 
 1627, November 9. William Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 Five ships ready to sail out of the river, the other in two days, the 
 only want is men. 
 
 1627, November 9. Milton. George Tucker to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Mr. de Questor hath here made stay of W. Hammond who says his 
 master, Henry Billingsly, appointed for the Merchant Adventurers to 
 transport letters for them delivered him a bag. I opened one packet 
 directed to one Skilhorne of Gravesend containing four which I have 
 sealed up by themselves. 
 
 1627, November 11. Stepney. W. Burrell to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Captain Duppa and the other Commanders of his fleet to be re- 
 quired to call their mariners together by order of a drum and to see 
 them aboard their several ships. 
 
 1627, November 13. Aboard the Repulse in the Downs. Captain 
 J. Best to Sir John Coke. 
 
 We departed from my Lord Duke yesternight about two leagues from 
 the Isle of Wight, he is gone for Portsmouth. We set sail from the 
 Isle of St. Martin the 8th of this month. To write of our late passages 
 there is too late, for ill news has always the wings of an eaglet. 
 
 1627, November 13. Sir Henry Maynwaring, to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty at his house at 
 Garlick Hithe near the Three Cranes in the Vintry. For His Majesty's 
 Affairs. 
 
 A certificate of the state and condition for readiness to set sail 
 in which he found the ships following, William, Handmaid, Constant 
 Maria, Pleasure, Anne, Content, William and John, Phoenix, Trial. 
 The masters are commanded to meet me and Mr. Burrell at the Trinity 
 House to-morrow by 8 in the morning there to consider what speedy 
 course we may take for men. 
 
 1627, November 14. Amsterdam. Robert Barlow to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 This bearer, Captain Alexander Baxter, hath from time to time given 
 good information of the French their proceedings, whereof the Lord 
 Ambassador, the Lord Carleton, had good notice. The two great 
 French ships are laid up in this town. A pinnace and three other 
 ships for the French do lie in the Texel ready for the first fair wind. 
 They be strong in men but of no great strength otherways. They be 
 destinate forNewhaven (Havre de Grace) so if there be of His Majesty's 
 ships in the Downs they may easily be met withal. 
 
 1627, November 14. Trinity House. Sir Henry Maynwaring to 
 Sir John Coke.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 331 
 
 Came Sir John Worstnam (PWolstenholme), Sir William Russell and 
 Mr. Fleming (Commissioners of the Navy) with whose care and the 
 assistance of the Trinity House I think we have put the business in an 
 orderly way so that I hope nothing but wind and weather shall hinder 
 their speedy proceedings. It was the opinion of the Commissioners to 
 have them stay at Tilbury for one another, but (under favour) my 
 opinion is they should better seive the King's intention to meet the 
 Fleet with the victuals to let the first stand on their course, lest staying 
 in this variable and tempestuous season for some all might come too 
 late. 
 
 1627, November 14. His house at Chelsea. Sir John Danvers to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 From this bearer, Mr. Bogans (a merchant resident at Rouen in 
 Normandy), I find there is credible intelligence amongst some merchants 
 that the Duke of Medina his not long since stay of French shipping 
 was not so much on behalf of the State of Spain as on the request of 
 themselves, to come or return strong in number to safeguard great 
 riches wherewith they are on the point to come laden from Spain to the 
 ports of France. It may possibly be a service to His Majesty upon the 
 opportunity of his fleet returned from the expedition for the Isle of Rhe 
 to send and make prize of that fleet of French goods. (Indorsed by 
 Sir John Coke, " 23 French from St. Lucars.") 
 
 1627, November 14 and 27, December 27. 1627-8, January 
 10. . John Fincham to Sir John Coke. 
 
 He arranges a pretended arrest of himself and examination before 
 the Council concerning the Bishop of Chalcedon and Mr. Musket, to be 
 followed by an order that his wife and family be sent to reside in the 
 country and that he go out of England and not return without licence. 
 One Smith, whose wife is of the Queen's bedchamber, is to go over 
 now suddenly with the French, he is a dangerous fellow. Were he 
 stayed at Dover and his trunks searched and himself narrowly, without 
 doubt there would be good stuff found. 
 
 1627, November 17. Marcle. John Kyrle to Sir John Coke. 
 Will by my pen only salute, honour, and pray for you, not to be 
 more troublesome in your many and intolerable business of State. 
 
 1627, November 17. Sherborne. Captain Christopher Levett to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 As to protection to fishing in New England. Asks a commission 
 to take 4 of those ships now in the King's service and to man them 
 with 300 men. 
 
 1627, November 24. Mr. Clitherow to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Advertisements from Qucenborough. The Parliament of Poland at 
 Warsaw hath concluded to debar the bringing down any wares 
 hither except a peace be concluded, to treat whereof they have 
 appointed two Commissioners, the Lord of Cracow and the Lord 
 Zanioiskcv. 
 
 News from Elbing that the Dantziekers fell out with 1 1 ships upon 
 the 6 Swedish ships. The Vice Admiral seeing himself boarded by 
 them and overmanned fired his own ship and so was lost with all upon 
 it. The Dantziekers are now masters of the sea. 
 
 1627, November 28. (Rochelle.) Pierre Viette a M. M. L'Aumo- 
 nier de Monseigneur le Conite de Soissons, en son absence, a M. M. 
 de la Jonchat, Capitaine au Regiment de Champagne.
 
 332 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Je viens tout presentement d'obtenir une permission de Monsieur Ie 
 Maire pour M. de la Jonchat et vous de venir proche de l'une des 
 portes de cette ville pour conferer vous et moi pour les affaires de 
 Monseigneur le Comte de Soissons. 
 
 1627, November 30. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Father Musket's 
 writing". The best counsel I can give your friend is to procure a 
 licence from the Council. I know no other means how he may pass 
 securely. M. 
 
 1627, December 17. Bristol. Jo. Whitson to Mr. Philip Burla- 
 machi, at his house in Lime Street. 
 
 The 14 bags of wools which remain here unsold should be sold to 
 finish that account with Sir Paul Pindall, Sir John Wolstenholme and 
 others. The Charles of Bristol is arrived, which hath been a long 
 time in the West Indies, she put into the Bantry in Ireland and took a 
 Spanish man of war of 35 or 40 tons at Dingle Decouth and brought 
 her into this port. Her English pilot is accounted to have been an 
 arch traitor to this State. He is not yet brought to this city : I will 
 take care that he be thoroughly examined and I am persuaded that if 
 he be brought to the torture he will confess many great things, 
 certainly he is a very lewd fellow. 
 
 1627, December 18. Plymouth. Captain John Harvey to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I attended my Lord of Holland's fleet towards St. Martin's, but upon 
 the voyage meeting with my Lord Duke's fleet at sea bound homeward 
 I returned with them into Plymouth. I did participate of the fury of the 
 oreat storm and was forced on shore upon the rocks in Hamoaze with 
 the rest, 18 sail were put ashore whereof 2 are utterly lost but all the 
 rest are gotten off. The Bonadventure of the King's was forced 
 upon the rocks and cut her masts by the board ; she lay neglected by 
 the master and officers from Tuesday to Friday. My Lord of Denbigh, 
 Sir Henry Mervyn, and Sir James Bagg thought fit to appoint me to 
 take the charge in chief. In 16 days her ordnance was got forth, her 
 sails, cables, tackles, anchors, and the like, to lighten her, and so I pray 
 God she is weighed and set upon her keel. The harm done in Catwater 
 fell chiefly upon the Rainbow of the King's and on Captain Quarle's 
 ship, a man of war. 
 
 1627, December 22. La Rochelle. Pierre Viette a M. M. le Prieur 
 de Bremond Aumonier de Monseigneur le Comte de Soissons et dont 
 j'etais fermier. 
 
 J'ai fait, aussi tons mes amis, tout ce qui a ete possible pour faire 
 liberer Monsieur du Lac. Je crois besoin que vous meme vinsserez ici 
 pour apporter partie de sa rancon et traiter pour echanger pour le 
 surplus pour des mariniers et matelots qui sont en Rhe. J'ai obtenu de 
 M. le Maire une permission pour vous de venir en le lieu. 
 
 1627, December 26, N.S. Antwerp. I. Page to Thomas Jennings, 
 Merchant at London. 
 
 Two caracks richly laden are arrived at Lisbon. The Hollanders 
 never cease to fill your Bourse with fables and lies. The king of 
 Denmark hath lost at least the third part of his Kingdom, a many of 
 his men left him and run to serve the Emperor. The King would 
 gladly make his peace with the Emperor ; marry now he hath him 
 on the hip he will show himself his lord and master, for at this
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 333 
 
 present the poor King hath no army in the field. They hold for 
 certain that the Prince his eldest son is dead, for leaping out of his 
 carosse heing drunk he broke his leg whereof he died. So that now 
 the Emperor hath won with his sword the Dukedom of Brunswick, 
 the Landgravate of Ilessia, the Dukedom of Holsatia,Wagria and Juttia, 
 and if he take the Stoad (Stade) where Colonel Morgan with 3,000 
 English and Scots hold out against him, consequently he will make 
 himself Lord of Hamburg and of that haven. The French sent out 
 daily pamphlets in disgrace of our English flight out of the Isle of Rhe 
 and so these Galli, whom in former ages we held but as poor cockerels, 
 begin noAv to erect their crests and think with their crowing to prostrate 
 before them both our lions and dragons. The French King hath 
 removed the Duke of Angouleme from the Generalate of his army 
 about Rochelle and given it unto Duke Espernon who is thought the 
 best soldier in France. 
 
 1G27, December 31. Dublin Castle. Henry Caiy, Viscount Falk- 
 land (51), Lord Deputy of Ireland to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary of State to His Majesty at Court. 
 
 Having received a taste of your noble disposition towards me in the 
 case of my wife's unhappy desertion, I recommend the enclosed particular 
 to your favour, as it is offered to me for a most necessary and useful 
 office to be erected in this kingdom, there being yet but one of them. 
 They must be kept secret from the Commissioners who out of ill will to 
 me will oppose anything of my proposing, and from Sir H. Holcraft. 
 I will undertake that upon the passing of the "seals here a hundred 
 pounds sterling shall be paid to whom you shall be pleased to appoint 
 here or there. And if this essay seem of a good relish, and that a good 
 correspondence may thereby be settled betwixt your Honour and me, I 
 shall second this beginning with more profitable tenders hereafter. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir J. Coke, " two Examiners in Chancery." 
 
 1627, , . Johannes Francius, Nobili mngnifico ct amplissimo 
 viro Domino Johanni Cucco Equiti Aurato Sacratissimo Regi Carolo a 
 consiliis intimis Domino et Patrono meo obsequiose colendo. 
 
 Ad Majestatem Regiam Illustrisimi Principis mei Landgraviai Hassia? 
 Uteris in Angliam transmissus, postquam ex mora diuturniori in angustias 
 redigerer nee Anglia exire possem, animus meus tantum penitus non fuit 
 prostratus. Pentecostes solemnibus instantibus, animi serenandi causa, 
 salutavi Cantabrigiensium edita doctrina sapientum templa serena. 
 Visa est mihi Academia ilia, eruditionis officina, solidioris doctrina; 
 emporium, humanitatis palaestra, probitatis gymnasium, schola pietatis, 
 sanctimoniae templum, sapiential arx, Philosophorum Attica, Theo- 
 logiorum Hierosolyma, regia Phoebi, Anglia) dexter oculus, mundi rosa, 
 balsamus orbis. Necne defuerunt viri cordati, qui verbis me eri^erent. 
 Primum a Serenissimo Rege immediate dependent prsebenda?, canonicatus, 
 donativ;i', quas Hex ipsis quoque donare solet exteris, exemplo Molinaei, 
 Spalatensis, Oleviani, aliorum. Jam ante sexennium coram Illustrissimo 
 Principe meo Landgravia Hassiae et principum legatis concionatus sum. 
 Mag am V nim ut Pharmacoprco Regio, Germano, quid expectare possim 
 innuat. rogo. 
 
 1627. Chatham. W. Burrell to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary of State to His Majesty. 
 
 Incloses a proposition which he would not wish his neighbours the 
 seamen to know, which may he made known to the Kin" or the Duke. 
 (The enclosure is wanting.)
 
 334 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1627. Indorsed by Sir John Coke, " Advertisements from Rochelle." 
 B. Albert a Monsieur Monsieur de Primerose Docteur en Theologie 
 Chapelain du Roi de la Grande Bretagne M. D. S. E. (Ministre des 
 Saintes Evangiles?) en l'Eglise Francaise de Londres. 
 
 Monsieur et tres honore frere. Mr. Vincent vous va voir avec ses 
 condeputes de cette ville ... si vous ne faites et travaillez pour 
 nous c'est fait de nous humainement, nous demandons la protection de 
 votre Prince apres nous etre joints a ses arines. Je vous conjure par ce 
 que nous avons de plus cher dans la Religion que nos avons commune 
 que vous ne nous abandonniez point dans un tel peril. . . . nous 
 avons surtout besoin de bles . . . s'il venait quelques bieres nous en 
 accepterions aussi, il faut nourrir vos Anglais qu'on nous laisse. J'avais 
 ete nomme pour vous aller voir mais on m'a juge necessaire ici pour 
 tenir bon dans un peuple effraye. 
 
 1627. No date. Frere Gilles a Monsieur et tres Reverend Pere 
 Philippes, Confesseure la Reine d'Angleterre en Cour. 
 
 J'envoie Valerien mon compagnon en Angleterre pour retirer mes 
 ecrits et quelques petites hardes. Je ne veux donner occasion de 
 medisance a ceux qui sans sujet et contre leur conscience m'ont d^crie 
 par devant sa Saintete et le Roi de France. Je vous supplie implorer la 
 Reine maitresse a celle fin que mes ecrits, lesquels je cneris cornme les 
 travaux de toute ma vie, lui soient livres et qu'il les puisse conduire chez 
 nos Peres en ma province, ou j'espere faire en brief ma retraite oii je 
 prierai Dieu pour la Reine votre et mienne maitresse pour ceux qui 
 m'ont persecute et pour nous particulierement. 
 
 1627. Draft by Sir John Coke of " Instructions for our trusty and 
 well beloved Sir Thomas Button, Knight, employed for our service as 
 Admiral upon the Irish coast." 
 
 To take charge of the Antelope now making ready in the port of 
 Bristol and to see that ship well manned and provided with necessary 
 sea stores and proportion of munition. To be at Plymouth by the 
 20th of October, having on the way done your best to destroy rovers, 
 Dunkirkmen, or other enemies and such French ships or barques 
 as may be found at Plymouth, to attend the embarking of 2,000 men, 
 and to convoy the fleet conveying them to the island of Retz (Rhe) upon 
 the French coast, then presently to return to Plymouth, where you shall 
 find 3,000 men more ready embarked by the 30th of October and in like 
 manner to take charge of their convoy till you see them landed in safety 
 in the said island. When you have performed these services you shall 
 with all diligence make for the coast of Ireland where your proper charge 
 is, and beat up towards Cape Clear, where you may meet with the ships 
 which came about Scotland to carry provisions for Spain, and shall do 
 your best to take and destroy them, whether they be Lubeckers, 
 Hamburgers, or of other places, carrying prohibited commodities to the 
 enemy. For your further employment you shall take directions from 
 our Deputy of Ireland as formerly you have used. 
 
 1627. Copy of a letter from Sir J. Coke to the Duke of Buckingham 
 being in the Ree (Rhe). 
 
 Tells of 14 Dunkirk ships passing along the coast of Ireland, landing 
 upon the Isles of Shetland and putting the people to the swcrd : leaving 
 500 men in the island turned about on our coast, betwixt Aberdeen and 
 Scarborough having a fight with the Holland men-of war. The States 
 have before Dunkirk 36 ships of war. Their fishermen have 34 for 
 their guard. We have four Avafters for our fishermen and six for our 
 coal ships, besides the three ships which guard the Elbe. We have
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 335 
 
 given warning along our northern coast to have their trained bands in 
 readiness. The Hamburgers adventured with 40 sail laden for Spain. 
 The coal ship Henry left Sir Sackville Trevor with his three ships 
 in fight with them. The King of Denmark expects 3,000 men to be 
 transported from France into Denmark, his agent asks a safe conduct, 
 and wo send a discoverer to Dieppe to be informed whether these men 
 be ready to be embarked. 
 
 (1627.) Petition to the King of the Bailiffs of Aldeburgh for a 
 lighthouse, 32 ships having been lost in the night of SS. Simon and 
 Jude, 1G27. 
 
 (1627.) A paper headed "Victuals put aboard for 21 days for the 
 numbers of soldiers for their transport from Portsmouth to the Isle of 
 Raye (Rhe) in the several squadrons ensuing." 
 
 Colours. Soldiers. 
 
 The Duke of Buckingham, Lord General by Red - 1,640 
 
 sea and land. 
 The Earl of Lindsey, Vice- Admiral - - Blue - 1,730 
 
 The Lord Harvie, Rear- Admiral - - White - 1,290 
 
 The Earl of Denbigh, Admiral of a squadron, and carried 1,150 
 
 the Red Cross of England. 
 Captain Pennington, Admiral of a squadron, and carried 1,030 
 St. Andrew's Cross of Scotland. 
 
 37 men of war. 18 victuallers. 
 
 11 maritime ships. 3 corn ships. 
 
 16 horse ships. 6 pinnaces. 
 
 (1627.) A paper endorsed by Sir J. Coke : "Memoire de quel ilfaut 
 pour freter 10 navires de M. de Soubize." 
 
 II faut a chacun homme par jour, une livre de pain, une livre de 
 boeuf, une pinte de poix ou demie pinte ayant du lard, deux quartes de 
 biere, a dix homines un poisson nomme lenk, qui revient a chaque 
 navire de 200 hommes par mois 3S0 lbs. st. et en chandelle eaux de vie 
 vinaigre gouldron, cordages toiles et autres commodites necessaires 
 20 lbs. St., quatre cont livres st. pour deux mois. 
 
 About 1627. To the King's most excellent Majesty. The humble 
 petition of Frances, Countess Dowager of Kildare. My humble desire 
 to your most sacred Majesty is that you would mercifully take notice of 
 the many petitions I have presented to your Majesty for my money due 
 out of the Exchequer, which your]Majesty most graciously accepted and 
 promised it me long since, yet never possessed I one penny of my due 
 but fair promises from the Lord Treasurer, wherefore I desired to have 
 your Majesty's princely answer by the Duke of Buckingham, for that I 
 know he saw the time would not afford me money your Majesty's 
 occasions being great, and my suit so reasonable and so beneficial to 
 your Majesty for that your Majesty did have the 1,600/. due to me 
 whereby I may pay some part of my debts, and free many of my friends 
 that are bound for me and in danger of the laws. My humble desire is 
 that your Majesty will be pleased to grant me the making of an Irish 
 Viscount or Viscountess an English man or woman, or else that your 
 Majesty would be pleased to grant a warrant to the farmer of the cus- 
 toms to make me present payment, or else that I may have your 
 Majesty's warrant to the Master of the Court of Wards and Liveries for 
 the time being, or to come that they may make me payment at such 
 several times as I shall acouaint the Lord Steward and the Earl of
 
 336 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke Mss. Dorset withal if your Majesty please to refer ine to them. My own 
 heart telleth me your noble father's son and your worthy sister's 
 brother cannot deny so faithful a servant as I have been so reasonable a 
 request, your heart being so fraught with mercy and pious actions, and I, 
 a poor solitary and sickly widow, as duty binds me ever will pray 
 to the Almighty for your long reign, content, and happiness. 
 
 1627-8, January 2. Antwerp. J. Page to Thomas Jenning?, 
 Merchant of London. 
 
 This next spring Walstein is appointed to come down with 150,000 
 men to scour all the lower parts of Germany, amongst which they 
 reckon Friesland. The Marquis Spinola on the point to go for Spain 
 all these days hath been royally banquetted by the city of Brussels. 
 They write from Vienna that the Emperer and Duke of Bavaria have 
 written to the Pope to provide archbishops and bishops with other 
 sufficient prelates for all these countries they haveacquired, the Palatinate, 
 Bohemia, Hesse, Brunswick, the territories of Hamburg, Lubeck, &c, 
 Holsatia, Juttia, &c. By the which you may see the gospel now lying 
 bleeding in Germany and what a vast inundation Popery is like to make 
 in these ample States. 
 
 1627-8, January 9. Antwerp. J. Page to Thomas Jennings, 
 merchant, at London. 
 
 The Marquis Spinola is departed for Spain, 400 coaches and carosses 
 accompanied him until Notre Dame d'Hall 6 miles from Brussels. He 
 passeth through France to Kochelle at that King's request. The French 
 King hath sent to Paris 44 ensigns taken from our English in the Isle 
 of Rhe to hang in our Lady's church for the eternal glory of France over 
 the English, and four pieces of ordnance with the English arms upon 
 them he hath put into the Bastile. If our nation had gloried so much 
 in former ages against them they might have hanged 10 ensigns for one 
 in Paul's and Westminster, but he*that cannot buy a capon must be glad 
 of a chicken. The Stoad (Stade) yet standeth out, Tilly and the Lord 
 of Anhalt press them, so that no succour can enter. At Emden the 
 burghers cannot agree, for some of them by the Papists being called 
 Calvinists, and the other Lutherans, the Emperor favoureth these and 
 promiseth them liberty of religion through the Empire. 
 
 1627-8, January 9. Christopher Nappleton to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I was to go with Mr. John Danyell of Dover to speak with my Lord 
 Duke or Mr. Nicholas his Secretary at Whitehall, but we could not 
 speak with neither. Our men was used very basely at Dunkirk. This 
 honest man had but 8 barrels of beer, and they would not give him 
 leave to land one. That Bose is hated of all men, and it most like that 
 God loves him not, for he uses poor men so hardly. Alas, good sir, is it 
 not a great misery for them to lie in prison a year and more, and then 
 forced to serve their enemies, and against their Lorl, religion, King, 
 and country. Sir, this is too true for there be three hundred English 
 Scots and Irish belongs to their ships. 
 
 1627-8, January 10. Thomas Jennings to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Encloses three letters. Richard Leigh will be ready to accept 
 freedom of the Turkey Company. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir John Coke with notes of information from 
 Amsterdam, the Texel, and the Hague as to movements of the French 
 men-of-war. News from Bayonne and Bordeaux. The policy of the 
 Dutch in maritime affairs.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 337 
 
 1627-8, January 11, and February 7. Examination of Monsieur 
 Maurice Aubert the Queen's Chirurgeon. 
 
 Note endorsed by Sir J. Coke, " He hath solicited Monsieur de 
 Sancie to make his peace in France, and return to that King's service 
 both before and since his return from the Isle of Rhe." 
 
 1627-8, January 16. George Calvert, Lord Baltimore, to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Mr. Levett seeks a commission for New England. The Lords of the 
 Council desiring to know whether this will encroach on my plantation 
 are informed that it does not concern me at all, it is far remote from 
 Newfoundland, which is a nearer part of America by some hundreds of 
 leagues. 
 
 1627-8, January 23. Plymouth. Sir James Bagg to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries at Court. 
 
 Your Honour hath at full understood of the state of Rochelle and the 
 Spanish and French fleet before it, and I conceive it will agree with 
 your grave wisdom to counsel the re-enforcing His Majesty's fleet 
 intended for those parts that their strength may terrify the enemy and 
 they return with honour and victory. I have written unto His Grace 
 giving him knowledge of the state of ships. The St. George, 
 St. Andrew, and Noiisuch may well be prepared here. The Mary 
 Rose, St. Claud, Loyalty, and seven victuallers are arrived hei'e with 
 Captain Sydenham. 
 
 1627-8. January 27. Whitehall. William, Earl of Pembroke, to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 In Roger Glover's cause asks Sir J. Coke to use his interest with 
 oir Thomas Middleton to order certain accountants to deliver their 
 reasons for proving or disproving the points in question. 
 
 1627-8, January 29. St. Ives in Cornwall. John Trewinnard to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 15 balls of aniseed out of the French ship praised at 30s. instead of 
 4/. There are here three French hulls stayed at St. Ives and brought 
 into a creek called Phillack within the bar of Lelant for safety, and to 
 save charges. The best, near 100 tons, is overset flat on her side, with 
 her mast sticking in the sands will shortly be worth nothing more than 
 for firewood. 
 
 1627-8, January 30. Dover Castle. Sir John Hippisley to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Of the Dunkirkers there be six freebooters out, and there be six of 
 the King's men-of war ready to come out. Concerning the business of 
 the Queen's Surgeon, I have found out four barrels of butter, and three 
 trunks full of worsted stockings to be shipped for Calais, they were to 
 be sent first to Flushing, but I can find no silk stockings at all. 
 
 1627, February 15. Brancepeth. He. Sanderson to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 There hath been lately a sale made by His Majesty's command 
 of Whitworth woods to one Mr. Baxter, who by the means of one 
 
 Temple, a weak surveyor, hath grossly cozened the King 
 
 Touching Mr. Gibbs' purchase of Brancepeth Castle and the parks I am 
 unwilling to say much, for that the thought of it is an affliction to me, 
 and therefore I would gladly forget it, only this be pleased to know 
 that 'tis generally conceived I lis Majesty hath been much abused in the 
 sale. . . By this purchase I am in danger to be dispossessed of that little 
 
 U 24963. Y
 
 338 
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 I have held these 30 years and upwards unless His Majesty please to 
 receive me into his gracious protection, and qualify Mr. Gibbs, who 
 strives by all ways he can to strip me, and leave me naked to the world. 
 
 Inclosure. Brancepeth, 23 and 24 August 1624. 
 
 Brancepeth : 
 
 s. d. s. d. 
 
 TteCastle{^e;ead e J. sworth |l ; 457 17 5} totalfSMK)9 19 ^ 
 
 besides iron and other materials and the site. s. d. 
 
 (The lodge 1 "] ) 2,609 19 5 
 
 ,, . t, , J The deer V are worth 200 I. . , * 
 
 E ^ tPftr H The wild cattle J f total, 600 
 
 [The woods, 2,476 trees 400 J 
 East Park.- -The herbage the deer destroyed is worth 300/. per annum. 
 
 ("The lodge. 
 West Park -l The deer. 
 
 [The herbage at 4s. an acre, it being 900 acres, is 180/. 
 
 Trees. s. 
 
 West Park - -16,191"] "4,695 
 
 East Park - - 2,476 242 18 
 
 Whitworth - - 8,689 | 1,640 3 
 
 Pedgbank - - 4,309 f total of their value --{1,000 
 
 Sum total 
 
 31,665 
 
 J 
 
 L- 
 
 7,578 1 10 
 
 s. 
 
 d. 
 
 1,000 trees at 15 
 
 
 
 2,000 6 
 
 8 
 
 1,341 3 
 
 4 
 
 a tree. 
 
 Further particulars of Whitworth woods, viz., East wood, the Plains, 
 West wood, Ridding piece cum aliis, Broad mead, Horse close, Trotters 
 close of which are valued 
 
 1,000 1 
 2,000 
 1,341 
 so there remain trees unvalued, 4,348. 
 
 (Signed) Henry Sanderson, John Wortley, Henry Birk- 
 beck, John Ward, Sampson Lever, William 
 Conyers. 
 
 1627-8, February 17, st. loci. Copy of a letter from Zurich. The 
 Diet of the Protestant Cantons and cities in Helvetia assembled will 
 call a General Diet at Baden where they resolve to call on the Catholic 
 Cantons, whether they be resolved unitedly with them to co-operate 
 with life and goods to maintain their common liberty. The Republic 
 of Venice is bound in virtue of a league to pay monthly in time of war 
 to each of the Cantons of Zurich and Berne 4,000 ducats. 
 
 1627-8, Fevrier 20. Sance, a Monsieur M. le Chevalier Coke, 
 Conseiller et Secretaire d etat de sa Serenissime Majestic 
 
 Que votre bonte supplie Monseigneur le Due d'avoir pitie de moi 
 en l'etat ou je suis maintenant au nom de Dieu, que je ne sois point 
 abandonne pour si peu que millefrancs. 
 
 1627-8, February 20. Advice from Germany. Count Mansfeldt's 
 army about Ulm. 
 
 The Prince of Lauenburg and Colonel Meroda are marching to him 
 with orders not to molest the towns that do contribute to the Catholic 
 League. Archduke Leopold and the Dukes of Bavaria, Neuburg, and 
 Wirtemburg have met at Grinzburg, seven leagues from Meming. In 
 the confines of Suabia a large force is to be raised, thought by some to 
 be against the Switzers.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 339 
 
 1627-8, February 20. The King's discharge of the Commission for 
 the Navy. 
 
 Charles, R. Countersigned. Ro. Heath (Attorney General). 
 
 Whereas we have heretofore granted a commission under our great 
 seal of England to divers persons nominated by us to take into their 
 care and ordering the affairs of our navy. And we are now resolved 
 by the advice of our Privy Council to have all these services performed 
 by our Admiral of England, and other the ordinary officers of our 
 navy. We do therefore by these presents signed with our royal hand 
 and sealed with our signet declare our pleasure and command that such 
 commission or commissions heretofore granted by us to any such 
 commissioners touching our navy be from henceforth revoked and 
 utterly void, and that by virtue of those commissions or any of them 
 the Commissioners therein named, or any of them do not intermeddle 
 in that service, but these presents are and shall be to them and every 
 of them a free and absolute discharge. Given under our signet at our 
 palace of Whitehall this 20th day of February in the 3rd year of our 
 reign. 
 
 May it therefore please your most Excellent Majesty. This contains 
 Your Majesty's discharge, and superseding of your former commissions 
 touching the navy signified to be your pleasure under your royal 
 hand. 
 
 1627-8, February 23. St. Martin's Lane. Viscount Conway to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 The commission is in Mr. Attorney's hands to be amended. For 
 new propositions that may come from the Ambassador, you in your 
 wisdom will use the accustomed style of receiving and taking time to 
 answer. If my way to Court lie through Tottenham High Cross I will 
 call upon you about 9 of the clock in the morning to see you in good 
 health and your Lady. I send you here enclosed the revocation of the 
 commission itself conceiving it fittest to be kept by you. 
 
 1627-8, February 23. " Advices of the Council of War." Notes by 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 A present fleet to guard the coasts of England and Ireland. For the 
 guard of England, 21 ships, whereof six of the King, the others 
 merchants, to be at sea by the end of March. The two ships for 
 Ireland to be of about 200 tons. Sir Henry Maynwaring, Sir John 
 Chudleigh, Captain Best, and Captain Heydon. This is be done by 
 the Lord Admiral's order. 
 
 1627-8, February 21. London, this present Sabbath Day. Richard 
 Foole to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I send Lord Conway's answer. I intrcated Mr. Wakerley to ride a 
 little before to acquaint you of my Lord's coming, but he thought my 
 Lord would not go through Tottenham, but some other nearer way. 
 Mr. Ward said that Sir Francis Nedham hath sealed the assignment 
 of the leases (of Melbourne Rectory). Tomorrow morning I shall 
 receive all the deeds and writings that concern your honour. 
 
 1627-8, February 20. The Strand. Sir Francis Nethersole to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 I am so bold as to write a letter immediately to the King and to send 
 it to your Honour for address. If the curious should know of my 
 boldness they may be guessing at the matter and harm come of it. 
 
 y 2
 
 340 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1627-8, February 27. Newmarket. Viscount Conway to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 Yesterday I attended His Majesty and presented the Commission for 
 the Council of War and the two grants for Peter Richaut. Also a 
 Commission for treating with the States Ambassadors, and one for 
 raising of monies. 
 
 1627-8, February 29. Phillippe Burlamachi to Sir John Coke. (In 
 French.) 
 
 Sir Charles Morgan can, with some assistance, maintain himself 
 sufficiently long. Succour may be given by sending 7 or 8 vessels to 
 the mouth of the Elbe and into the Schwinge. The King of Denmark 
 obtaining troops from France. News of the Spanish ships at St. 
 Andre (Santander) received from St. Jean de Luz and Bayonne. They 
 are being refitted by payment of double Avages to the shipwrights. 
 
 1627-8, March 5. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Mr. Ward hath sent you up herewith all the assignment from Thomp- 
 son. ... I confess God hath wonderfully added to my comforts by 
 this your pui"chase ; that He hath seated you and your posterity in 
 this your native county, for I know you can hardly find out a fitter 
 place for all conveniences fcr housekeeping than this is. so that you 
 will add a spur to your desires to settle here. I understand you 
 have been already moved in the behalf of Sir John Zouche to be 
 Governor of Virginia. He is a gentleman well deserving a right 
 good place, and hath bestowed much time and study in things belonging 
 to military discipline and hath had some practice, having had a company 
 In the Low Countries. We are now practising our horse to make 
 them ready for their training at Leicester. This time of the year 
 affordeth not many fat horses, and arms are now at an excessive rate and 
 almost not to be g >tten for money. 
 
 1627-8, March 5. The Strand. Sir Francis Nethersole to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Enclosing a paper "to wait on your letters if you have any to send 
 to Court." Thanks for your great favour showed to a kinsman of 
 mine. 
 
 1627-8, March 6. Strand. Sir Francis Nethersole to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 His Majesty hath ordered the payment of the Q(ueen), his sister's, 
 debts, and you to be her solicitor therein. I beseech your Honour to 
 command Burlamochi to wait on you for this purpose, and to put His 
 Majesty in mind to speak to Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer. 
 
 1627-8, March 10. John Warren and Henry Davye, Bailiffs of 
 Yarmouth, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 On behalf of the fishernvm trading to Westmony Island and the North 
 Seas, being 300 sail of ships aud barques, for ling and cod, being in fear 
 of Dunkirkers and French men-of-war, we beseech that they may 
 tpeedily have the four wattage ships for convoy ordered by the Board. 
 
 1627-8, March 11. Sir Francis Nedham to Christopher Fulwood, 
 Esquire. 
 
 I have been with Mr. Secretary, whom I find to deal with me more 
 .strictly than I have given cause for. Asks that 400 may be paid. 
 
 Mr. Fulwood forwards the letter adding, The doubts in law touching 
 the Bishop's lease do a little trouble me. I must leave it to your
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 341 
 
 Honour's wisdom to pay this 400. or not, before such time as the 
 Bishop's mind be known. 
 
 1627-8, March 11. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland (52), to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 Certifying an enclosed copy of a law or decree published by the 
 secular priests of Waterford. If this should be passed in silence some 
 other thing might be attempted in a higher strain tc work upon the 
 weakness of a multitude. 
 
 1627-8, March 12. The Strand. Sir Francis Nethersole to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 I have received a letter from the King, written with his own hand, 
 but written before he received mine. This hath given me occasion 
 to write another. 
 
 1627-8, March 13. Cambridge. Thomas Bainbrigge, Vice-Chan- 
 cellor of Cambridge, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 We humbly crave our late choice of you to be a burgess of our 
 University may not prejudice her in your better thoughts, yourself one 
 of her chief masters. Her fear is from her neighbours at home, and 
 those nearer you, London stationers, both like those nations, quae de- 
 reliquit Deus ut in eis erudiret Jerusalem. But she needs not fear 
 what the love of a most noble and worthy son hath power to prevent : 
 to him she commends her all. 
 
 1627-8, March 16. Whitehall. Philip Herbert. Earl of Montgo- 
 mery, Lord Chamberlain, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 His Majesty commands stay of a warrant to grant 40. per annum 
 to one Tomkins for the place of composer to the voices and wind instru- 
 ments lately held by Alphonso Ferrabosco deceased, he having foimerly 
 granted the place and wages to the son of the said Ferrabosco. 
 
 1627-8, March 16. Weymouth, Melcombe Regis. John Gardner to 
 the Commissioners for Sales. 
 
 Requires a warrant to press men to send the ships about. A ship of 
 200 tons fit for the King's service it is feared will be given away. 
 
 1627-8, March 21. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland. 
 
 The copy of a private article of instruction to Sir Roger Jones at his 
 going in England. 
 
 To move that his Majesty be pleased to send straight warrant to remove 
 out of this realm all titulary bishops and dignitaries, Jesuits, seminary 
 priests and friars, and that they depart by a certain day on pain of 
 death ; conniving for a time at such secular mass priests as shall be able 
 to put in good security. 
 
 1627-8, March 23, st. novo. Calais. John Cleave to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Describes his going from Gravesend to Flushing, by contrary winds 
 to Dover, and so to Calais, where are imprisoned a gentlewoman of 
 Jersey and Mr. Bandinell, Dean of Jersey, and others taken in vessels 
 o-oiiv with munitions to the Castle there. 12 of our ships that went 
 in the fleet to Rochelle taken and sunk by the Dunkirkers. The 
 French merchants trade daily into England by way of Hushing both 
 for cloths and wines. My seal to you shall be ever a heart pierced 
 a\ ith a cross, enveloped and stung with a serpent ; my devise. " ever 
 whole and full."
 
 342 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1627-8, March . Philippe Burlamachi to Sir John Coke. (In 
 French.) 
 
 Advertisements from Germany. Alarm of the Swiss. They hope 
 that the King of France would assist them, and perhaps this may the 
 sooner cause the raising of the siege of Rochelle. 
 
 1628, March 25. First part of a letter from the English Minister at 
 the Hague relating to his interview with the Fiscal to the States General 
 touching the negotiations on the Amboyna business. * 
 
 1628, April 1. "Matthew Basd to his brother Friar Basil, a 
 Carthusian at Rouen," addressed " A M r Monsieur Basire, Avocat au 
 Palace a Rouen." 
 
 Mon cher Frere, Je me suis retire de la suite de M. Beddinfield ; 
 mon desir est d'entrer en religion. Je suis pour present avec 
 M. Stapleton un des Superieurs des Jesuites d'Angleterre. 11 rn'en- 
 verrai a. St. Omer pour y etre recu. Ce que me porte a cette vocation 
 c'est le grand peril que je trouve pour se sauver dans le monde et les 
 grandes consolations que Ton recoit en la vie religieuse et lebon exemple 
 que mes freres et sceurs m'ont montre. 
 
 (1628, April 3.) A full note by Sir John Coke of the message 
 from the King delivered by him to the House of Commons. (See 
 Gardiner's History, Vol. 6, p. 248.) 
 
 1628, April 4. Gray's Inn. Sir John Finch (M.P. for Canterbury 
 and Speaker of House of Commons), to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of 
 His Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 It joyeth my heart that this day's work is so acceptable to His 
 Majesty, and I hope in God he will receive content in all the pro- 
 ceedings and conclusion of this Parliament. I have sent you the 
 resolutions of the House in those points concerning the personal 
 liberty of the subject and the propriety of his goods. My prayers and 
 endeavours shall be His Majesty may receive all satisfaction. 
 
 1628, April 8. Peter Aylwarde, Mayor of Waterford, to Viscount 
 Falkland, Lord Deputy General of Ireland. 
 
 One Murphy, from Portugal, says that there were threescore galleons 
 will be ready next summer to ship their soldiers, now settled in the 
 country near to Lisbon, to invade some parts of England or Ireland. 
 
 1628, April 9.- Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Dividend for the Signet 
 received from Mr. Gale " for months June-October, 42 3s. Ad. 
 
 1628, April 12. Dublin Castle. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland 
 [52], Lord Deputy of Ireland, to Sir John Coke. 
 Sends a second of a previous bill of exchange. 
 
 1628, April 15. Daniel MacCarthy to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Sends his petition for the preservation of his estate which His Majesty 
 vias pleased to confer for his maintenance, and which he will lose at 
 Easter. 
 
 1628, April 15. Dublin Castle. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland, 
 Lord Deputy of Ireland, to Sir John Coke. 
 Enclosing another paper. 
 
 1628, April 29. Westminster College. Doctor Robert Newell, Pre- 
 bendary of Westminster and Archdeacon of Buckingham, to George 
 Coke at the Parsonage of Bigrave. 
 
 Will not take less than 95/. for the barn at Baldock. My Lord of 
 Winchester thinks it convenient that you take some opportunity to 
 come and preach before His Majesty.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 343 
 
 1628, April . Henry Montague, Earl of Manchester, to Mr. 
 Secretary Coke. 
 
 I have here sent you the short passages of this day's work, and so 
 rest your assured H. Manchester. 
 
 Most Excellent Majesty. Give your servants leave in speaking to a 
 king to use the words of a king. Deum time Regem honora. This 
 was Solomon's counsel. This is the purpose of your great council now 
 in parliament here assembled. A Jove principium was your father's 
 method, and it is our meaning actively to serve your Majesty and our 
 country. Humbly also to prostrate ourselves to God in prayer with 
 fasting. This is the sum of our petition. But if your Majesty will 
 please to hear it read, this paper will speak those hearts which my 
 tongue cannot express. 
 
 The petition being read .... His Majesty told us ... . 
 my Lord President who brought the petition should signify the answer. 
 
 Which answer is thus : That His Majesty is well pleased with the 
 petition presented, and is well content to have a fast. And as for the 
 time of keeping it, he appoints that to be on Friday in Easter week 
 next, before which time it may be made known to all the kingdom. As 
 likewise it is to be hoped that we shall have cause to pray to God for 
 the good success of what we shall by that time resolve, as also to beg 
 His mercies towards others of our religion that now are in danger of 
 great calamities. 
 
 1628, May 3. Sir John Finch to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I enclose a paper in which is expressed Mr. Sherland's motion this 
 day. I commit the original to your care, not doubting but it is as safe 
 as with me. 
 
 1628, May 13. Avignon. Bottier a M. de Bremond, Prieur de 
 Thorigny et de Guingenay, Chevalier de la Croisade. 
 
 M. Aubert, Chanoine de l'Eglise de St. Denis de cette ville, a desir 
 de faire paroitre vos meritcs en vous dediant un livre qu'il a compose. 
 C'est l'idee des lettres missives. 
 
 1G28, May 17. Richard Lord "Weston, Chancellor of the Exchequer, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries to His 
 Majesty. 
 
 His Majesty desires to speak with you to-morrow morning betimes. 
 
 He intends to use your service at Portsmouth or Plymouth for the 
 setting forth of these ships, and he thinks fit that you call Sir James 
 Bagg, Sir Henry Maynwaring, Captain Penington, and Mr. Nicholas 
 for your assistance. 
 
 1628, May 19 to June 4. "Journal for Portsmouth to send back 
 the fleet to Rochelle," written by Sir John Coke. We came from 
 London on May 19, that night to Egham, next day to Alsford (Aires- 
 ford), on Wednesday 21st to Portsmouth. Daily notes of letters written 
 and business transacted. 
 
 1628, May 22. Portsmouth. Henry Holt to Sir John Coke. 
 
 A proportion of beef, pork, and peas for 700 men for 84 days, being 
 48 flesh and 36 whole fish days. 
 
 Endorsed with a copy of a letter (from Sir John Coke) to the Duke 
 of Buckingham, reporting progress of his business at Portsmouth, and 
 news. 
 
 1628, May 23. Whitehall. Edward Nicholas (M.P. for Dover) to 
 Sir John Coke at Portsmouth.
 
 344 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 The lower House of Parliament hath rejected the addition offered by 
 the Lords, and this day we are to have a conference about it. But I 
 hope for all this the Parliament will go on and succeed well, for that 
 both houses did before agree to all parts of the petition. I write in 
 haste. 
 
 1628, May 23. Newport, Isle of Wight. Sir Johh Meldrum to Su 
 John Coke. 
 
 Reports that he has re-enforced with soldiers the ordinary watch of 
 the country people attending the beacons. Bark to be ready to set 
 forth to Sir Henry Palmer at sea upon discovery of any fleet exceeding 
 16 ships. 
 
 1628, May 23. Southampton. Thomas Combe, Mayor, to Sir John 
 Coke, one of His Majesty's most honorable Privy Council and Principal 
 Secretary of State. 
 
 [Precis by Sir J. Coke.] " Letters to Poole and Weymouth (brought 
 by Sir H. Mainwaring) Lion's Claw, Gift of God, Dolphin. Men 
 pressed. Press money to be repaid by Brooke. Southampton over- 
 charged with soldiers, 400, and 2 Irish companies, which make many 
 leave the town " (to move His Majesty that they may be removed to 
 some other town adjacent). "Beer." 
 
 1628, May 23. Whitehall. George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty, at 
 Portsmouth. 
 
 There are many French vessels put into Plymouth that confirm the 
 first Frenchman's relation that the fleet hath left Rochelle, and is come 
 as far as Belleisle, but if Sir H. Hungate or any of Sir James Bagg's 
 messengers meet with it I assure myself it will return again. Cause 
 about 8 or 10 small barques and vessels at Portsmouth, Southampton, 
 and in the Isle of Wight to be presently pressed and p/epared with 
 good store of combustible matter to make fire barks and send them to 
 the fleet to Rochelle. I pray hasten away the Si. Esprit and the other 
 ships that are taken up at Portsmouth, the Cowes or thereabouts, and 
 let there be some fire ships sent with them. 
 
 1628, May 25. Dublin Castle. Viscount Falkland to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Maintains the fitness of the late changes in the office of examinations 
 in the Chancery of Ireland against the complaint of Mr. Barker that he 
 hath lost half the office. It much concerns His Majesty's honour. Sir 
 John Coke the mediator, and Lord Falkland the recommender that the 
 act should be maintained. 
 
 1628, May 25. Knighton, Isle of Wight. Robert Dillington to Sir 
 J. Coke at Portsmouth. 
 
 Has sent all over the Island for apprehending seamen to be sent on 
 board the fleet in Stokes Bay. Riding on the hills I was told of 30 sail 
 but they were gone out of sight. Ships come so near Dunnose that 
 mackerel men durst not go forth. 
 
 1628, May 27. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Castle of Worcester," 
 Giles Clutterbuck, Keeper. 
 
 The history of the Castle and of the Sheriffwick of Worcester 
 deduced from the time of King Edward 1st. 
 
 1628, May 27. Southampton. Captain Francis Vernon to Sir J. 
 Coke at Portsmouth. Mr. Mayor sent for all the coopers in the town
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 345 
 
 for water casks. They have but little ready made, but what they can 
 find in taverns shall be bought up. I will see them filled and sent 
 away. 
 
 1628, May 27. Cowes Castle. Captain Alexander Douglas to Sir 
 J. Coke at Portsmouth. 
 
 I have a warrant from my Lord Conway to stay all ships but such 
 as are employed in His Majesty's immediate service and having special 
 licence under my Lord Duke his hand. 
 
 1628, May 28. Whitehall. George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty, at 
 Portsmouth. 
 
 My brother Denbigh's intention is to put in with all the fleet unto 
 Portsmouth. It will be best (since the fleet is so far advanced into 
 the Sleeve, and that I have sent several messengers overland to adver- 
 tise the town of Roehelle of His Majesty's resolution presently to send 
 a greater force to open the passage for relief thereof), that all the Fleet 
 and preparations for reinforcement of it go away together. I pray 
 you continue at Portsmouth and cause my cousin Feilding not to put 
 to sea till you receive further direction. Survey of provisions on board 
 to be taken. Take an especial care that none belonging to the Fleet 
 be permitted to put into the harbour, or to come ashore. Continue 
 your diligence for fire vessels. Mr. Holt shall receive from Sir Allen 
 Apsley 1,000, and 500 more will be by the Treasurer of the Navy 
 sent to you. I doubt not in a few days the Bill of Subsidies will be 
 passed for there is now likely to be a happy agreement between the 
 King and his people. 
 
 1628, May 28. Thomas Combe, Mayor of Southampton, to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Gift of God and Lion's claw sent down. 62 men passed into 
 them and the Dolphin. The Dolphin brought on shore. 5 fire 
 ships to be made ready in 14 days. Coopers employed to send away 
 casks. 
 
 1628, May 28. London. Philippe Burlamachi to Sir John Coke. 
 (In French.) 
 
 Much corn taken by the Dunkirkers, little remains to go to Roehelle. 
 News from Hamburg of the loss ofStaden. Mr. Morgan arrived in 
 Holland. 
 
 1628, May 29. Southampton. Captain Francis Vernon to Sir J. 
 Coke at Portsmouth. 
 
 There are five ships may be ready for fire ships, you may be pleased 
 to send somebody to bargain for them. I solicit the captains hourly 
 and threaten their disobedience. 
 
 1628, May 29. On board the Mary Rose, St. Helen's. Captain 
 Francis Sidenham to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 25 men sick of a calenture and 10 of scurvy, will infect the rest. 
 Fresh meat needed. 
 
 1628, May 29. On board the Garland. Sir Henry Palmer to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Has brought in 12 ships, Hamburgers and Hollanders, all laden with 
 munition, some pretend to be bound for Leghorn, but they are not 
 commodities for that port, unless designed from thence to Spain. 
 Most of the merchants are Portuguese dwelling in Amsterdam. The
 
 346 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 skippers only desire their ships and freights, which favour will make 
 them more confident hereafter to speak with us when we shall meet 
 with them. 
 
 1628, May 29. London. Sir Allen Apsley, Governor of the Tower, 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Ships are being victualled, must have ready money. Victualling by 
 petty warrant will come to ^700 a week. I and my deputies are so 
 far engaged and our creditors so much disheartened and disabled as 
 they will not do anything upon trust. 
 
 1628, June 1. Sir J. Coke's draft." Copy to the Earl of Denbigh." 
 I heard an evil report raised in the Fleet and from thence spread 
 abroad of His Majesty's resolution to send back this Fleet to an im- 
 possible work For my part I believe not that such worthy 
 
 gentlemen can have so ignoble thoughts I do confidently 
 
 publish what is told me from some of them .... who are so far 
 from declining any service His Majesty commandeth, for fear of 
 difficulties and dangers that they think it a special honour to be trusted 
 
 in such attempts Now whether it concerneth both your 
 
 Lordship and all these worthy gentlemen in like manner to disavow 
 and cry down these unworthy bruits and slanders cast upon your actions 
 
 and the designs of the state your wisdoms may consider Now 
 
 there is no way to redeem or make good your honour with his Majesty 
 and the world but by advancing the action, encouraging the mariners 
 and making way through all fears by your wisdoms and courage, for in 
 greatest dangers greatest Captains get praise and where no danger is 
 every man can command. I know your Lordship needeth no such 
 spurs. 
 
 1628, June 1. Whitehall. George Yilliers, Duke of Buckingham, 
 Lord High Admiral, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to 
 His Majesty at Portsmouth. 
 
 The Fleet to go together to Eochelle. More fire ships to be prepared. 
 Victuallers for Eochelle. Esperance, Loyalty, Rainbow, and other 
 ships to be prepared. All the ships at Portsmouth, Southampton, 
 and other places to be set in hand. The whole Fleet to be victualled 
 by petty warrant. Sick men to be refreshed on shore. Fleet to be 
 supplied with fresh water and other provisions, gunners and boatswains 
 stores to come by land from London. Fire ships preparing at Ply- 
 mouth. Hollanders to be discharged if no probable proof. Seamen 
 to be pressed. Three able commanders sent to be at disposal of my 
 brother Denbigh. The King will be at Portsmouth very shortly to 
 set all things forward. I pray continue the diligence and care you have 
 hitherto showed. 
 
 1628, June 2. William Feilding, Earl Denbigh, to Sir John Coke. 
 For the re-victualling of the James of Salcombe. 
 
 1628, June 3. Portsmouth. Sir John Coke to the Duke of Buck- 
 ingham, Lord Admiral. Reply to his letter of June 1. 
 
 The fire ships cannot be had unless 350 be paid in hand and as 
 much more assured. The Lords have written unto me that they have 
 given order of 500 to be paid to the Treasurer of the Navy to be 
 returned hither, but of the money I hear no more, and their Lordships 
 order there will do no work here, where no credit can be procured, 
 and if the fleet stay for fire ships and the fire ships for money and 
 monies be sent in paper only, I assure your Grace that the time which 
 is given to send the Fleet together will consume the provisions and
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 347 
 
 disable it to proceed. I have been forced to procure from Southampton 
 100 tons of new cask to be there filled with water, which when it 
 comes to the Fleet if they will not empty it and fill it again at the 
 Cowes (as I fear they will not, having denied to do it twice) it will 
 presently turn black and putrified and be of no use. This town is 
 already so pestered with mariners sick and whole that I fear it will 
 be no fit place for His Majesty to repair unto, and to send them further 
 from the ships were to discharge them. 
 
 1628, June 3. Thomas Eobartts, Mayor of Poole, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 A barque laden with provisions for Plymouth now at Poole, rescued 
 from the Dunkirkers ; she cannot go to sea ; asks directions. 3 or 4 
 Dunkirkers are daily seen from Purbeck cliffs. 
 
 1628, June 4. Southampton. Thomas Combe, Mayor, to Sir 
 John Coke. 
 
 I am sorry my service hath been of so little esteem as to be 
 menaced with threats. The ships are being prepared with what care 
 I can. 
 
 1628, June 4. Whitehall. George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary to His Majesty at 
 Portsmouth. 
 
 There will be greatest want of fire ships of all other provisions 
 for opening the passage into Rochelle, .... but methinks they are 
 very dear .... you will within 2 or 3 days receive 500/. for preparing 
 the fire ships .... the fleet to go all together for if they go broken the 
 service may suffer a second and worse foil than it hath. I have 
 taken order with Mr. Burlamachi to furnish 4,000/. worth of corn for 
 victualling of that town .... (continued in the Duke's own writing) I 
 have read your last letter to His Majesty before the Lords, whereupon 
 he hath resolved to come in person himself so soon as the parliament 
 will be ended. In my opinion cost may be saved by putting in 
 the fire ships such a proportion of men out of the King's ships as 
 may serve for the management of their sails till they come before Rochelle. 
 
 1628, June 5. The Fleet. William Feilding, Earl of Denbigh, to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Is taking the straitest course for punishment of disorders committed 
 ashore. The Vanguard found serviceable. The meat which is now to 
 be killed on shore should be preserved for our after spending, and our 
 men should only have fresh meat for their refreshing on Sunday. 
 
 1628, June 5. Cowes Castle. Captain Alexander Douglas to Sir J. 
 Coke. 
 
 Asks payment for the boatmen. Fears their unwillingness in times 
 to come. 
 
 1628, June 6. Southampton. Ken. Edisbury to Sir J. Coke at the 
 Red Lion in Portsmouth. 
 
 Has with the Mayor and Mr. Elsey taken up 9 ships for fireships 
 and 4 for transport of 1,500 quarters of corn. For preparing these 
 ships workmen, pitch, and other materials should be pressed. For 
 mariners I have pressed some, but have seen many more flying 
 from me in boats over the water. There must be some general course 
 taken. 
 
 1628, June 7. On board the Garland. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 Sends in a prize laden with masts, cables and cordage. The Amity 
 to be sent back, being his fittest ship for a chase. I shape my 
 course the likeliest way to meet those ships his Grace specified.
 
 348 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1628, June 7. Southampton. Ken. Edisbury to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Asks warrant to press shipwrights and caulkers. Also the pitch and 
 other materials being used for the Plantation in the Isle of Wight. 
 For the ships taken up Captain Downing should press half a score 
 masters about London. 
 
 16128, June 8. The Vanguard. William Feilding, Earl of Denbigh, 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Asks that the materials required for his ship may be sent. Two 
 prizes sent in by Captain Wedell and Sir Henry Palmer. 
 
 1628, June 9. Walsingham House. Francis Vernon to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty at Portsmouth. 
 
 I delivered your Honour's letters to His Grace ; his distractions in 
 Parliament have been so great that he hath had little time to think of 
 the fire ships. We fell on a sudden from the greatest fear and despair 
 to the greatest joy I ever saw in London, for he did not think himself 
 the son of a good mother that had not a great fire at his door and made 
 all his neighbours drink. All things I doubt not now will go forward 
 smoothly that we may do and not talk. 
 
 1628, June 9. Broad Sanctuary, Westminster. Gilbert Thacker 
 to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Encloses Mr. Alured's letter as to satisfaction between the King and 
 his people. It hath pleased God to visit Mrs Elwes with the small pox, 
 for which my Lady is very sorrowf ul,and the more fear she apprehendeth 
 by reason she is so near her time. The children and all the servants but 
 whom of necessity she must employ at home are all sent to Tottenham. 
 My Lady hath for warned me and Hugh from coming thither, in regard to 
 my recourse and Hugh's attendance at Court. 
 
 1628, June 10. Whitehall. George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, 
 to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I perceive by the advancement of His Majesty's services at Ports- 
 mouth and your despatches that your being there was exceeding 
 necessary, and indeed I doubt that had it not been for your extraordinary 
 diligence it would have been a work almost impossible to have fitted the 
 fleet and provisions to return to Pochelle. Store of victuals in the river 
 ready to go this week. Order for pressing 12 masters to take charge of 
 the victuallei's and fire ships, 100 gunners and 10 able ship carpenters. 
 Strict course to be taken that no landmen that are healthy be suffered 
 to depart from the fleet or go ashore. 
 
 1628, June 10. London. Philippe Burlamachi to Sir John Coke. 
 (In French.) 
 
 Hopes the market price of grain will be for His Majesty's profit, 
 Seeks for himself no advantage but such as an honest man may. Asks 
 that his cousin may be assisted with authority necessary to prevent 
 conflicts which the insolence and importunity of seamen cause to those 
 about them. 
 
 1628, June 12. Youghal. Henry Gosnold, Chief Justice in 
 Munster, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Has 30 years' service in this province. Thanks for assistance towards 
 regaining his lost place in the Court of Marshalsea. Asks a lease of all 
 reliefs and heriots within this kingdom for 32 years. 
 
 1628, June 12. The Crown, Southampton. Ken. Edisbury to Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 Thanks for the joyful record of His Majesty's accord with the 
 parliament. Tomorrow 6 of the ships shall be ready to sail to Ports-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 349 
 
 mouth. I must send as many as can be manned and desire that the same 
 persons may return to pitch the rest. I find the cunning of some 
 merchants here beyond my experience. I have employed Captain 
 Green to ride to Poole and Weymouth to press 100 men and to find a 
 better furnished fireship. 
 
 Fireworks. Memorandum by Sir J. Coke for materials for 8 
 fireships. 
 
 1628, June 12. The Vanguard. Earl of Denbigh to Sir J. 
 Coke. 
 
 Asks that the wants of the Sea Venture may be supplied. 
 
 1628, June 12. Mayor of Weymouth to Sir J. Coke. 
 Has pressed and sent 8 men for Plymouth and 8 for Portsmouth ; for 
 pressed and conduct money 4/6 and 3/2 a man. 
 
 1628, June 13. Thomas Combe, Mayor of Southampton, to Sir J. 
 Coke. 
 
 As to ships being made ready there. 
 
 1628, June 13. [Southampton. William Margetts to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 The Lion's Claw ready to take in provision ; beseeches to be 
 forthwith despatched, for we are lying at gr^at charge. 
 
 1628, June 14. Whitehall. Duke of Buckingham to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I perceive by good effects your care and abilities in His Majesty's 
 important service at Portsmouth wherein I pray continue your diligence 
 to perfect the work you have so well begun. 1 pray cause all care to 
 be taken to despatch the fire ships. I desire to receive a list of all the 
 ships as well men of war as fire ships, victuallers, pinnaces, and others. 
 I shall shortly give notice when 1 would have the corn provided for 
 Rochelle embarked. Your assured loving friend. 
 
 1628, June 14. Aboard His Majesty's ship the *SV. Andrew. 
 William Feilding, Earl of Denbigh, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The ships of the fleet that came in with me will be all ready at 21 
 hours' notice, having provisions, victuals, and men, and so I daresay 
 shall the rest. I give you many thanks for making an inquiry into 
 Captain Quail's speeches, and shall very much desire that you will bring 
 all to light as soon as you can. 
 
 1628, June 15. Southampton. Ken. Edisbury to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Reports his preparation of ships' stores, &c, for Rochelle. Ordinary 
 English iron 18 a ton, an excessive rate. Has taken up 12 ships. I 
 fear harm by the over earnest pursuit by the Lower House of Parliament 
 against any whom His Majesty places in his remarkable favour. 
 
 1628, June 17. Aboard the *SY. Andrew. William Feilding, Earl 
 of Denbigh, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Desires that carpenters be sent to view the Garland. I have sent 
 the Englishman who came out of the Dutch man-of-war. lie should 
 be imprisoned. 
 
 1628, June 18. London. Sir Allen Apsley, Lieutenant of the 
 Tower, to Sir John Coke, Knight, a principal Secretary of State, at 
 Portsmouth. 
 
 The victualling for the 8 ships and 10 Lions Whelps that are to come 
 from hence hath been ready this 14 days. I have not had any money.
 
 350 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokeMSS. Upon Monday last the Lower House sent up the Bill of Subsidies to the 
 Lords of the Upper House, but did not so much as name them in the Bill, 
 thinking their Lordships would have returned it back so they might 
 have had more time in debate, but their Lordships read it forthwith 
 and have passed the Bill and take exceptions notwithstanding the 
 Commons House have taken time to give them answer till tomorrow. 
 Yesterday they delivered a long petition to His Majesty of all their 
 grievances and therewith a remonstrance. In the first part there was 
 the Countess of Buckingham for countenancing of papists, and that 
 divers recusants were preferred in the Commonwealth and Church to 
 places and dignities, namely, Doctor Neale, Bishop of Winchester, and 
 Doctor Laud, Bishop of Bath and Wells. They taunt them with 
 Arminianism ; they said the Duke had lost the regality of the Narrow 
 Seas .... [many charges specified]. I write this confusedly as it 
 comes to my memory. The King's answer was that he did not 
 think they had been so ignorant to believe that the passages of State 
 business and of the Church was better known to them than himself that 
 directed it. The Duke kneeled down first and offered to have answered, 
 but His Majesty would not suffer him, but took him up and gave him 
 his hand to kiss, which the Commons House took ill. 
 
 1628, June 18. Whitehall. Viscount Conway to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, at 
 Portsmouth. 
 
 Some indisposition which confined me all day yesterday to my 
 chamber hindered me from procuring you the warrant you desire to free 
 you from the Auditorship. This afternoon I propose to move for it 
 and haste it to you as soon as it is done. On Monday last the Bill of 
 Subsidies was sent up to the Upper House; omission of" Lords Spiritual 
 and Temporal " is a cause of offence. Yesterday the Lower House 
 attended the King with their remonstrance. The King's answer, and 
 giving the Duke his hand to kiss. 
 
 1628, June 21. Edmonton. Thomas Alured (M.P. for Hedon, 
 Yorkshire) to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State 
 and of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council, at Portsmouth. 
 
 I will not make comparison betwixt your troubles abroad and 
 your cares at home ; they are great I confess, but I hope God hath 
 enabled you for both. My Lady bears her loss with as much moderation 
 and judgment as a mother's passion can admit for the want of such a 
 daughter, who in the goodness of her own disposition and my Lady's 
 affection and your good opinion was not I presume beyond any of those 
 she hath left behind her. My request to my Lady hath been that she 
 would refresh herself with a freer air at Tottenham (where most of your 
 Honour's family are) rather than to continue melancholy at London, 
 which I hope she will sometime within a few days resolve upon. 
 
 I have been of late the more sparing to visit my Lady because my 
 little family hath been visited in the same kind, once with the measles, 
 and twice with the small-pox, though I thank God we are now free, 
 and I know not many households but have run the same hazard. I know 
 not wherein I may do your Honour any service save in some poor trivial 
 advertisements which I conceive cannot be unseasonable amidst your 
 tedious employments. 
 
 Your Honour I doubt not hath seen our remonstrance and what 
 satisfaction His Majesty's answer or the Duke's action gave. The 
 naming of the two Bishops suspected to countenance and to be infected 
 with Arminianism proceeded by occasion of Mr. Spencer's endeavouring 
 to do them rather a good office than intending it should fall so plainly upon
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 351 
 
 them, for being at first drawn in general of some of the clergy near His 
 Majesty he thought this might reflect also in general uponmost of all of the 
 Bishops, therefore to excuse the Archbishop and those not guilty 
 it was thought fit to name these as well by their persons as by their 
 places, lest if they should remove the suspicion might be left upon their 
 sees rather than upon themselves. The Bishop of Winchester was at 
 the reading of the remonstrance, but Bath and Wells withdrew at the 
 first. 
 
 This Saturday some courtiers of the household were sent to know 
 His Majesty's pleasure for a recess or a proroguing of this Session, 
 because the House was something thin grown, and many businesses of 
 weight which concern His Majesty's honour and profit and concern the 
 good of the Kingdom, which would require some conference with divers 
 of His Majesty's officers and persons of sundry qualities in the country, 
 which could not now be done, besides the Bill of Tonnage and Poundage 
 and that for regulating arms would take up much time, if not more than 
 they thought the present affairs and other circumstances would now in His 
 Majesty's judgment admit of. The gentlemen were only to know His 
 Majesty's pleasure when he would vouchsafe the Speaker access with 
 such a number of the House as His Majesty should appoint. The 
 King was then going to Nonsuch where the Queen is, but very graciously 
 sent answer that he would come back tomorrow being Sunday (though 
 his intention was not till Monday) purposedly to give them admittance 
 and audience, so the Speaker with 12 gentlemen are appointed, whereof 
 the three last of the twelve are the three richest of our number, Sir H. 
 Wallop, Sir W. Popham, and Sir Thomas Thynne. This day the Bill 
 of Tonnage and Poundage being in some debate Sir Ed. Coke promised 
 when time should serve to offer what he thought fit for the ordering of 
 His Majesty's revenue, wherein he would offer nothing that should not 
 be for His Majesty's honour and profit both : and in some instances for 
 lessening His Majesty's charge : he cryed down the Duchy Court to be 
 cast into the Exchequer and the two Courts of Wales and York to be 
 dissolved. Sir Miles Fleetwood proposed that by the exchange of 
 tenures, recusants lands, and forests the revenue might be raised 
 250,000/. a year. Sir R. Pye did not credit so great an advancement : 
 and Sir Thomas Wentworth interposed that some should think Sir R. 
 Pye put the opinion or name of a projector upon Sir M. F., who 
 seemed something moved Avith what Sir R. Pye replied upon him. But 
 in the passage of the examination of some that were held to have 
 projected the raising the book of rates, which being five weeks since laid 
 to Sir Ed. Sawyer's charge, he denied the knowledge of anything in 
 that kind with some asseverations and protestations, willing if he did 
 that he were hanged (whereat some wittily and wantonly presently cried 
 " a good motion "). It appeared yesterday that Mr. Dawes and he were 
 with "the King and '' that Sir Ed. projected the raising of every shilling 
 to two throughout the whole book of rates, yet protested how free he 
 perceived His Majesty was from assenting unto it until it should be 
 better considered of and found reasonable : Sir Edmond acknowledged 
 that xii<7. might be raised more upon divers, but denied his intimation 
 or intention for all. This being yesterday, this morning came a 
 message by Mr. Solicitor that His Majesty, having heard Sir Edmond 
 Sawyer and Mr. Dawes speak understanding^ in some businesses 
 concerning his revenue formerly, and thereby discerning their ability, 
 had sent for them and required them to consider of the book of rates 
 and what was fit to be done thereupon, wherein they modestly made 
 the excuses that they should be but accounted projectors if they meddled 
 therein ; yet His Majesty required them to consider thereof and to
 
 352 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 report again what they thought fit : then His Majesty excused them to 
 the House &c. Whereupon for the body of the matter the House was 
 something tender ; yet one passage they thought not fit to let pass. 
 Five weeks since when it was questioned in the House, Sir Edmond 
 Sawyer had denied either his knowledge or his intermeddling in any 
 kind, the same night he went to Mr. Dawes his house and asked him 
 if he had been sent for to the Parliament: he answered no, neither did 
 he hear of anything why he should. Sir Edmond said 'tis likely that 
 you will be sent for, but you come not there upon your oath and there- 
 fore you will not discover or make known anything that passed betwixt 
 you and me. For a member of the House in a cause concerning himself 
 and wherein they desired to have satisfaction to go and labour or advise 
 to conceal the truth, and in a manner to suborn him to speak falsely, 
 was generally held a great indignity to the House and of an high and 
 ill consequence, especially by Sir Ed. Coke, Mr. Spencer, Sir Thomas 
 Wentworth, Mr. Selden, Mr. Wansford, and Mr. Mason : so he is turned 
 out of the House (which some would have only suspended, but Mr. 
 Wansford sayeth the notice would be better taken throughout the king- 
 dom, for that being a burgess for Berwick they would not understand 
 of it but by a new election) and declared unworthy ever to come into it, 
 or be made a member of it, and committed to the Tower. This day 
 Dr. Mainwaring made his submission at our bar in verbis conceptis 
 sent down by the lis. [Lords] : which having humbly done without 
 either speaking or being spoken unto, the Warden of the Fleet went 
 back with him : if he had been degraded the sentence would not have 
 been too severe; and now there be some of the London Divines that 
 are gone to Cambridge to take the degree of Doctor, and some there 
 that think better of Arminians than of Calvin do labour to disgrace 
 them by putting them beside that degree, whereof we shall see the issue 
 the next week. 
 
 The Commission granted at the end of February to the whole Council 
 for raising of money by imposition or otherwise being sent for to the Lord 
 Keeper was read in the House, and presented to the lis. [Lords] as of 
 an high consequence and by the Lords returned back cancelled. The 
 horse is feared will yet be landed and some armour conceived to be come 
 already, yet the message mentioned in the remonstrance and sent by 
 the Chancellor of the Duchy did (and I think doth) secure many. The 
 impositions for the curranes [currants] is by a new warrant from the 
 King enjoined, and to be received by the Earl of Arundel, for which the 
 merchants have renewed their complaint to the House. 
 
 The curranes that were then stayed I conceive are delivered according 
 [to] the request of the House and His Majesty's direction : but all that 
 are come in since or are to come are to be subject for aught I see to the 
 imposition granted unto and farmed by the Earl of Arundel, who hath 
 passed a Bill in both Houses for estating by Parliament his Castle of 
 Arundel and his house in the Strand with the statues and furniture there 
 for ever to his heirs males, and never to be made in jointure to any 
 wife, save to the Countess now living, and hath given and estated 200/. 
 a year for ever to the Company of the Fishmongers for the repairing of 
 these two houses. When his Bill was passed he did by the Speaker 
 present his hearty thanks to the whole House for that favour in passing 
 so willingly his Bill, wherein if he would he could not fail to express 
 his further thankfulness by deserving well of the public by his future 
 services and of every member by his respect as there should be occasion, 
 and he hoped his posterity would do the like for which they should 
 not want both in example and directions. Mr. Alford stood up and 
 said this custom of giving thanks had been omitted ever since the
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 353 
 
 passage of a Bill for the old Lord Burghley, and he held it due to the 
 House, for what hath [have] these Lords now so deserved of the 
 Commonwealth that we should intermit the publie affairs of the State 
 (wherefore this House is called) to intend their private Bills. The 
 next day the Earl of Bristow [Bristol] also gave thanks. The Earl of 
 Devonshire's Bill passed with much difficulty and twice dividing the 
 House, and himself is now found, I doubt not, into an happier place. 
 Sir, you see how I presume to enlarge myself to trouble you ; we can 
 easily conjecture your distractions there, and you cannot but conceive 
 what they would have been here, God hath his hand in all. Sir Robert 
 Pye told me of himself sitting in the House that, of some Aveeks and 
 not a few, he had not spoken with the 1). [Duke] but twice, and upon 
 the last speech, he perceived the D. both thought and now found 
 (perhaps the more in your absence and upon the trial of others) that 
 you were both honest and wise. This adds not to your comfort nor 
 to your credit, who are the same whatsoever others opinions be, but 
 coining voluntarily from him (as this Parliament no man considering 
 his place and his relation hath spoken more freely and more faithfully), 
 it cannot offend you at least in respect of the love of the latter who I 
 think truly affects you. I requested your Honour for a stay of James 
 Baylie's grant of the Clerk of the Eines, which I hear is now likely 
 to pass in your absence, whereof I think they have taken the oppor- 
 tunity, and but that I know not how the employments are likely to be 
 I have been pressed to be a suitor to your Honour for a cousin german 
 of mine, one Mr. Skipwith, a justice of peace, his second son, and a 
 civil Low Country soldier for an Ancient or at most a Lieutenant's 
 place. But these as they come in the end of my letter, so be pleased 
 to think I have no end to be troublesome now unto your Honour 
 in, who have businesses of another nature and an higher kind to take up 
 your thoughts. Sir, 1 pray God send you health and continue and 
 increase your comfort, and I beseech you excuse this boldness and rude- 
 ness in writing, and may I have the happiness to wait upon you this 
 summer at Tottenham. 
 
 1628, June 23. Garlick Hill. Richard Poole to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State, his most 
 honourable master, at Portsmouth. 
 
 Right Honourable, I give God the thanks my Lady is in good 
 health, notwithstanding the sorrow which this heavy disaster of late 
 befallen us hath occasioned, and that she like a most religious, wise 
 woman hath suffered reason to moderate her sorrow, though it were 
 much aggravated in that it pleased God to visit Mistress Ellweys with 
 such a disease, that neither she nor any other of her nearest and dearest 
 friends durst ccme near her, unless they would hazard their own health. 
 The children and almost all our family were sent to Tottenham before 
 she fell sick, and blessed be God are all in health. Mistress Ellweys 
 was sick with us of the small pox, 12 days or thereabouts, and after 
 much pain and through the violence of her disease endured, and by her 
 travail whereinto she fell on Sunday, loth of June, much weakened, 
 on Monday the 16th dune in the morning about 5 or 6 of the clock, she 
 changed this life for a better, and was the same day at nijrht buried 
 about 10 or 11 of the clock, accompanied to church only with Sir 
 Robert Lee and bis Lady of her kindred, and a few of our good neigh- 
 bours, with little or no pomp and with decent and only necessary 
 charges, but Mr. Ellweys is purposed to bestow upon his nearest friends 
 U 24UG3. -/.
 
 354 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION, 
 
 Coke MSS. mourning garments, as he thinks most fit. His virtuous and religious 
 wife died like a good Christian prepared for her Maker, sensible that at 
 this time she should go to Him to whom all the faithful desire to be 
 united, and to enjoy with her in Christ Jesus the blessed society of 
 angels and saints in His heavenly kingdom. Her son whereof she was 
 delivered being very weak and small born before the time was pre- 
 sently baptized (a minister being sent for) in the house and named 
 Philip. It pleased God to atford it life four days and then died, also 
 being at Edmonton at nurse and was there buried. God knows we 
 have been sequestered from many of our friends' company who came 
 not near us for fear of infection, and indeed we were very circumspect, 
 careful and unwilling that any should come to us to impair their health. 
 My good Lady (of me ever to be honoured) is yet in the town, fearful 
 to go to Tottenham because of the children, but (God willing) she 
 intends towards the end of this week to be there. She remembers her 
 dearest love to your Honour, continually making mention of you and 
 all with you in her prayers, much desiring your happy and long expected 
 return, which we all pray for and know will be so soon as His Majesty's 
 affairs wherein your Honour is there employed are dispatched. 
 
 Of Thompson I have received 210/., half year's rent of Baggravc. 
 I. have paid to Sir Francis Nedham the GOO/, only that your Honour 
 
 left with my Lady and have his acquittance Mr. Thacker tells 
 
 me he cannot receive any money due to your Honour, but is fairly pro- 
 mised that he shall received it on Thursday next. For the household 
 expenses and other necessaries I have taken 40/, from Mr. Thompson's 
 
 money Yesterday Mr. Doctor Fell sent hither to know whether 
 
 your Honour had returned any answer concerning the receiving of his 
 moneys, the remainder of the price of his purchase of Hale Court. . . . 
 This hath been his month of attendance at Court and will shortly be 
 out, and he much desires to finish this business before he goes out of 
 the City. . . . Mistress Carey remembers her love and service to your 
 honour. ... I do and ever shall honour my Lady both for that she is 
 yours and also for the virtuous Christian and godly conversation which 
 I daily see upon all occasions in her. I speak not this to your honour 
 in any temporizing humour, but sincerely from my heart. . . . She 
 hath been to Mr. Ellweys an exceeding great comfort at this time, for- 
 getting her own sorrow as much as possible in his sight not to aggra- 
 vate his, which was very much. 
 
 1628, May 22. Inclosure. (Copy.) Receipt for 600/. Signed, Fr. 
 Nedham. Witnesses, Gilbert Ward, Hum. Fulwood, Roger Hatton, 
 Edw. Ashbury, Ric. Poole. 
 
 1628, June 23. Whitehall. Hum. Fulwoode to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 My Lady (not overmuch grieving but religiously resting contented 
 with the good pleasure of God concerning her daughter's death) .... 
 is resolved to go to Tottenham about the end of this week. The 22nd 
 of May last there was 600 paid to Sir Francis Nedham. I have 
 conferred with Mr. Ward touching every particular of Melbourne 
 business. Mr. Ward's letter is here enclosed. Sir Francis Nedham 
 came yesterday to town, he hath brought up all such evidences and 
 other writings as concern your honour. Dr. Fell hath many times 
 sent unto my Lady to take the payment of his money. This is his 
 month of attendance at court. Sir E. Sawyer committed to the Tower. 
 Sir E. Moseley, the Attorney of the Duchy, is thought by a committee 
 fit to be reported as guilty of extortion and bribery. His Majesty going 
 to Portsmouth, I would attend your Honour there.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 355 
 
 1628, June 25. London. Sir William Russell to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 My main infirmities do daily call upon me to put in order my worldly 
 business. My accounts cannot be completed but by Mr. Edisbury. 
 1 pray that he may be allowed to return, and the accounts may be 
 speedily signed. 
 
 1G28, June 25. Whitehall. Viscount Conway, Secretary of State. 
 [No address.] 
 
 I have not been wanting to endeavour to free you from the burden 
 you complain of and to put the charge upon Mr. Edisbury, it being an 
 employment most unfit for a Secretary of State. If there come 
 any complaint from the French concerning Sir H. Palmer. I 
 doubt not to satisfy anything shall be spoken of. The parliament 
 breaks up to-morrow, and a session will be made of it and some Acts 
 pass. The King hath resolved to speak to the Houses by the 
 Lord Keeper, and also himself to say something like a good and 
 gracious King. Next week he will go towards Portsmouth. 
 
 1628, June 25. Portsmouth. Sir John Coke to the Duke of Buck- 
 ingham. (Copy.) 
 
 By this large account your Grace may perceive that there remaineth 
 no more here wherein my service can be of use. For though the officers 
 have sent a warrant to Mr. Boate to make ready the Triumph, the 
 JVastspitc, and the Esperauce, yet they have taken no order for materials 
 or for monies or for repairing the graving place here. 1 have continued 
 here almost 6 whole weeks, and have spent already all the King's money 
 in his service and my own, in an inn where I have lodged not only 
 with a continual oppression of seamen, victuallers, and workmen, but 
 as if in a hospital with a confluence of sick men. Give me now leave 
 to say freely that not only my abode here will be of no use, but that 
 every day while the Fleet staycth in this harbour it will be less ready 
 and worse provided to set to sea. The only means to amend evil 
 effects is by discovery of the causes, to which neither my commission 
 doth extend, nor my disposition, which is rather inclined to mend than 
 fend faults. 
 
 1628, June 26. London. Richard Poole to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I went to Mr. Dr. Fell's lodging, but he was newly gone to Nonsuch 
 to wait upon His Majesty. Your Honour shall presently receive a 
 rental from Mr. Ward. Being asked whether there were any convenient 
 place wherein your Honour and my Lady might be entertained at 
 Melbourne, he answered you might lie at Swarkestone, which is a mile 
 from Melbourne, or if you like not that, he would furnish your own 
 house at Melbourne with his beds and anything else fit for your Honour 
 for that time. 
 
 (1628), dune 26. London. Joan Lady Coke to Sir John Coke. 
 
 1 pray believe that the cause of my not writing unto you was that 
 I thought you had [not?] sent any servant to London. If it had been 
 so you might have been justly excused, but howsoever my show to the 
 world may not seem to be great my loss is to me greater than I can 
 make show for; but 1 know it is God's hand, and I pray daily to him 
 that I may make good use of it. 1 acknowledge no air can preserve 
 longer than God's appointed time, and here I am daily put in mind of 
 my mortality. There died this week of the small-pox 58. 1 praise- 
 God the children are in good health, and I purpose by God's assistance 
 to go to them on Saturday. My brother George Coke is in London 
 and hath been with me, and saith your son Thomas is in good health. 
 
 z 2
 
 356 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. My sister Carey and your daughter Mary is in good health and all the 
 rest of us, God be thanked. I should much joy to hear of your return, 
 and a happy issue of all your labours. My son Elways remembers his 
 services unto you. I pray for you and wish you here, and will ever 
 remain your faithful and loving wife till death. 
 
 1628, June 27. George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, and Edward, 
 Viscount Conway. Warrant to John Pecksall, Serjeant of the Admi- 
 ralty. 
 
 Ships ready to sail are by the contemptuous and sudden running 
 away of their men forced still to continue in the river, not only to the 
 increase of His Majesty's charge and the delay and prejudice of the 
 intended voyage, but also to the great hazard of drawing infection 
 aboard in these contagious times. Stay to be made of all ships and 
 vessels within the river of Thames. To take names and view the 
 persons of the men and make a note thereof. If any pressed men 
 found aboard they and the master of the ship are to be taken before 
 the Judge of the Admiralty to be committed to prison. 
 
 1628, June 27. Cargaison of Victuallers taken by Sir James Bagg 
 and returned from Kochelle. Cargaison of Victuallers returned from 
 Rochelle laden by the order of Mr. Burlamachi, names of ships, their 
 stores, &c, and masters. La Joyeuse, Capitaine Elie Perlier, prise 
 par les Francais, a Bordeaux, et le capitaine mis sur la roue. 
 
 1628, June 28. Southampton. Thomas Combe, Mayor, to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Reports preparations there. 
 
 1628, June 30. Sir John Coke's lodgings at Whitehall. Hum. 
 Fulwoode to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal 
 Secretaries of State at Portsmouth. 
 
 This morning it pleased God to take Mr. Thacker hence. I take 
 knowledge by Mistress Thacker's relation that your honour willed 
 that he should repair to Mr. Ward and inform himself how your honour 
 with my Lady and the rest of your attendants might be accommodated 
 in Melbourne for three or four nights' entertainment. Your money 
 out of the Cofferer's office was received by Mr. Thacker and is all paid 
 in unto my Lady. I have been with Mr. Ward whose opinion is that 
 your Honour can be nowhere entertained but at your own house, and 
 for bedding or any other necessity he can send them from Svvarke- 
 stone. My Lady with the rest of her family went to Tottenham on 
 Saturday last. There is a box at Whitehall which was Mr. Thacker's. 
 Mistress Thacker desireth you to appoint somebody to be at the opening 
 to receive such things as may concern your Honour. Parliament 
 prorogued till October, but without any pardon. The four west-country 
 gentlemen that were committed by the House of Commons are set at 
 liberty, two of them being made knights since their enlargement, the 
 other two being knights before are now made baronets. My Lord 
 President the same day the Parliament ended had the Privy Seal, and 
 Sir Edward Sawyer came out of the Tower. Would it please your 
 Honour to command my care in any your occasions here that Mr. 
 Thacker was employed in you shall always fiud me both faithful, 
 diligent, and careful. 
 
 1628, July 1. Westminster. Thomas Carpenter to Sir John Coke. 
 Desires to become servant to Sir J. Coke in the place of Mr. Thacker, 
 lately deceased ; is recommended by Sir Abraham Williams and others.
 
 HISTOKICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 357 
 
 1628, July 1. Whitehall. George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, to Coke MSS. 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 Has given order for boatswains' and carpenters' stores. The ships here 
 in readiness to fall down. Will be at Portsmouth by the 8th, by which 
 day I pray get all the fleet together and the corn shipped. I will not 
 come from hence without money for the marines and seamen. Before 
 three days are past I will see that 1,000/. be sent to the Deputy 
 Victualler. I purpose also to get as much more for the five ships, and 
 other provisions you have given order for. There is order given for 
 pressing 200 watermen, and to the officers of the navy to provide 1,500 
 suits of clothes for seamen and a good provision of hammocks. The 
 King is resolved to send away the fleet with all speed possible, and with 
 less force than first intended, lest Rochelle should be surrendered while 
 a greater strength is preparing for relief of it. 
 
 1628, July 1. Whitehall. James Leeke to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Asks help and furtherance with Dr. Wren and Fellows of Peterhouse 
 to make his son, Dr. Leeke, a Fellow now, or at least the next that 
 shall fall. His approved loving uncle, Sir Francis Coke, has also 
 written. 
 
 1628, July 2. Whitehall. Edward Nicholas (Secretary to the Duke 
 of Buckingham) to Sir J. Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His 
 Majesty, at Portsmouth. 
 
 [The address signed " G. Buckingham."] 
 
 There are letters come from Rochelle that advertise that the inhabi- 
 tants there are in great extremity which makes His Majesty to hasten 
 away the fleet with all possible diligence. The king for certain 
 setteth forth towards you Monday next and stayeth now only till 
 some money be raised upon the credit of the subsidies. There are 
 chirurgCons pressed for the fleet. I am sorry for the death of your 
 honest servant, Mr. Thacker. My Lord saith he will go the voyage, 
 and I believe it. 1 pray God send him a happy success in it. The 
 remissness and ignorance of the officers of the Navy have been principal 
 hindrances that the fleet and provisions here preparing are not sooner 
 ready, which this day I made appear before them at the Council Board, 
 the King being present. 
 
 1G28, July 3. Edward Nicholas (Secretary to the Duke of Bucking- 
 ham) to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The King setteth forth towards Portsmouth Monday next, and the 
 ships are now falling down to hasten thither. My Lord now finds that 
 he was mistaken when he changed the commissions for these offices of 
 the Navy, who are above their places in their imaginations, and for their 
 want of understanding in such business not able to execute the same. 
 My Lord is reconciled in a reasonable good manner to Sir Robert 
 Mansell, who hath been private with his Grace two hours at a time. 
 
 1(28, July 3. Whitehall. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The King commands that all letters and papers which the King hath 
 given to you or that you have received concerning my Lord Chancellor 
 of Ireland may by your direction be here tomorrow at night. All the 
 haste that is possible is made for the putting forward of the journey, 
 which is the surest; way to give an end to your restraint. 
 
 " Copy of my answer to the Lord Conway." 
 
 1 would have sent to have searched all my papers if to my grief my 
 secretary who only knew how my papers are disposed had not died after
 
 358 HISTOKICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. a few days' sickness this last week as I think your Lordship knoweth. 
 Besides out of my care to keep safe all such writings as concern his 
 Majesty's service I, when I suddenly was sent away, little thought of so 
 long abode here I put my keys in such a place of my house at London, 
 as none but myself can come at them by the time which is prefixed. 
 What then to say or do I know not but to submit myself in all humility 
 to His Majesty's gracious censure. 
 
 1628, July 4. L'Abbaye de St. Michel. Le Prieur de St. Michel 
 to M. Bremond 
 
 French letter explaining absence, and inviting him to use his bed, and 
 stall for his horse. 
 
 1628, July 4, London. Henry Lee and Henry Andrews to Sir John 
 Coke, at Portsmouth, asking release of their ship, the Plain Joan, 
 pressed into the King's service to take the Governor of Guernsey 
 thither, and now about to return, and also satisfaction for her being 
 stayed. 
 
 1628, July 5. London. Philippe Burlarnachi to Sir John Coke. (In 
 French.) 
 
 Glad his cousin Caladrini has done service. Victuals beginning to 
 decay should be disposed of. Will send money for wheat bought. 
 
 1628, July 11. Whitehall. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, at Ports- 
 mouth. 
 
 Privy Seal disposed to my Lord President. My Lord Treasurer is 
 to be President, and gives up his staff to my Lord Weston. We have 
 been making estimates of the charges of those works to be done this 
 summer, as the relieving of Pochelle, sending forces and shipping to 
 Luxstadt (Gluckstadt) and the rivers there, paying the soldiers and 
 hilieters, and providing for the King's servants that are long unpaid. 
 The estimate comes to 12,000. I conceive the time to be very 
 improper for the King to come into the country where there is like to 
 be much clamour. 
 
 1628, July 14. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Copy of a warrant to 
 Mr. Brooke for victualling." (21 merchant ships named) Portsmouth. 
 
 1628, July 17. Termonfeckin. James Ussher, Archbishop of 
 Armagh, to Sir J. Coke, at Portsmouth. 
 
 Books written by a Jesuit of this country have been seized in 
 England. The Jesuit is about London and labours to have them back. 
 Popery bath here of late gotten such a head that there is little need 
 more fuel should be added to the increasing that flame. I have directed 
 those who solicit my causes, in all matters to be brought to the King, 
 to address themselves unto you as one in whom I repose special 
 confidence. 
 
 Indorsed. " St. Thomas Day, 1662. Mr. John Coke was nine 
 years of age.'' 
 
 1628, July 17. London. Hum. Fulwoode to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, &c, at 
 Portsmouth. 
 
 The Lord Weston (now Lord Treasurer) very respectfully did receive 
 your Honour's letter, and with much willingness gave promise of a 
 buck. Arrearages due to Sir John Coke from the Exchequer, &c.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 359 
 
 Dividend at the Signet. Your Honour is solicited to certify for the Coke mss. 
 sealing of the agreement betwixt Mr. Richard Bond and the King, 
 made by the Lord Treasurer. Mr. Wm. Gore is now fallen sick 
 of the small-pox, and lieth at London House with his brother, Mr. 
 Jarrett : little Mr. Benjamin at Tottenham I hear hath them like- 
 wise. Mr. Wolfen beseecheth a Bill for His Majesty's signature 
 for the denization of one Petronella de Berkell, being the loth in number 
 of his 40. It is not sparingly spoke that the old Lord Treasurer 
 hath 10,000 in lieu of his office, and his Countess 5,000, and his 
 daughter hath the preferring of two Viscounts. Sir William Parsons, 
 Master of the Wards in Ireland, is generally thought to be Chancellor 
 of the Exchequer. My Lord Duke did yesterday part with the Lord 
 Wardenship of the Cinque Ports to the Earl of Suffolk. It is conceived 
 that my Lord Stewart shall be made a Duke, and have leave to retire 
 himself into the country, and the now Lord Chamberlain shall have his 
 office of High Steward, and the Earl of Holland his place of Chamber- 
 lain. The Earl of Dorset is High Chamberlain to the Queen, Sir 
 Thomas Jermyn her Vice Chamberlain, and the Lord Goring, Master 
 of her Majesty's Horse. Some think my Lord Conway shall be 
 removed, and the Lord Carleton to succeed him in his place of 
 Secretary. 
 
 1628, July 18. London Sir Sackville Crow to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I have received 1,000 at the Exchequer to be sent to Portsmouth. 
 'Tis resolved the men shall be paid full six months from their last pay 
 1st October. I pity your troublesome employment. His Majesty 
 resolves to set forth towards Portsmouth, if my Lord Treasurer can 
 lift him out of the town. 
 
 1628, July 19. Whitehall. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Order now given for bringing the soldiers to Portsmouth. The 
 news holds constant, we shall begin our journey towards you on 
 Monday. The new officers, the Earl of Marlborough, Lord President, 
 the Lord Weston, Lord Treasurer, the Earl of Suffolk, Lord Warden 
 of the Cinque Ports, the Earl of Dorset, Lord Chamberlain to the 
 Queen, the Lord Goring, Master of the Horse to Her Majesty. My 
 solicitations to the Lord Treasurer for myself and your Honour have 
 hitherto been fruitless ; when we meet we must join together. 
 
 1628, July 21. s. d. 
 
 Dividend for Mr. Secretary Coke at the Signet for 
 
 March 1628 - - - - - 17 8 8 
 
 At the Hanaper and Pettibag, after Trinity Term, 
 
 1628 ...... 
 
 (Signed) Windebank. 
 
 19 8 7 
 
 36 V 
 
 1628, July 24. West Dean (near Chichester). Edward Alford and 
 R. Lewkenor to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Upon two letters from the Lords of the Council for billeting 2,000 
 soldiers near Portsmouth, when we gave the Sessors their charge 
 lately, they alleged that the soldiers were not taken off, nor I he money 
 paid for the billeting of them, nor for impress coats, and conduct money 
 disbursed long since. We have no hope the country will receive any 
 more. There are 200 soldiers already billeted in the Rape and City of 
 Chichester, between which city and the town of Havanl is but seven 
 miles distance, and between but one poor town and two or three 
 hamlets already full freight with soldiers.
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 360 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Notes by Sir John Coke. 3s. 6d. per week each man billet money. 
 Isle of Wight - 1,475 
 Hampshire - 600 
 
 Sussex - - 600 
 
 2,675 
 6,000 
 
 3,425 
 
 1628, July 25. Copy of reply by Sir John Coke. 
 
 First. Though the providing of carriage be laid upon the country, as 
 of necessity it must, yet the payment for the same is to be made by the 
 Lord Treasurer upon the account to be brought unto him. For the 
 conduct and billeting monies, the Treasurer of the Army telleth me 
 that he hath already delivered them to the officers of the several 
 companies. For their shirts, stockings, shoes and clothes they are 
 provided, and shall be delivered to them at their coming to Portsmouth. 
 I presume the country may easily be persuaded to assist their carrying 
 away whom they keep against their wills. I doubt not, but you will 
 give your best assistance to remove needless jealousies, and expedite the 
 business according to your accustomed diligence and zeal for the public 
 good. 
 
 1628, July 24. Sir Robert Heath, Attorney General, to George 
 Kirke, of His Majesty's Bedchamber, at Court. 
 
 I have sent enclosed a letter which I humbly offer to His Majesty to 
 be signed at his good pleasure for the furtherance of his service in his 
 disafforestation of the Forests of Koch and Selwood in Somersetshire, 
 to be directed to the Judge of Assize for that county. 
 
 1628, July 25. Buckingham House. George Villiers, Duke ol 
 Buckingham, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 1 herewith send four warrants for impressing of as many seamen as 
 you shall think fit to put into them, and four letters of assistance to the 
 counties of Sussex, Hampshire, Wilts, and the Isle of Wight. All the 
 ships and provisions prepared here are now for the most part in the 
 Downs. I stay here only to see the remainder which is not much to 
 follow after, and to hasten away monies for the mariners which will be 
 all done before Monday next when I hope ai the furthest to be with 
 you, I pray cause four barrels of powder to be delivered to the Sergeant 
 Major of the Earl of Morton's Regiment in the Isle of Wight. I pray 
 cause watch to be kept in the Isle of Wight and all parts about Ports- 
 mouth that no seamen or mariners be suffered to land. As soon as the 
 ships lately gone out of the Downs are come about to you, I pray cause 
 the provisions to be issued and disposed of amongst the ships there, 
 which are to have supply for two months for their complements of 
 seamen, and three months for such landmen as shall be appointed to 
 them. 
 
 1628, July 25. Whitehall. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 These three French letters for Monsieur Dolbier who hath all his 
 despatches and stays only for the return of these letters. I beseech 
 you get them signed. I also send two warrants for my Lord Newburg 
 to be Chancellor and Under Treasurer of the Exchequer, and a letter 
 prepared by Mr. Attorney General and addressed to Mr. Kirke ; you 
 may likewise be pleased to get them signed.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 361 
 
 1628, July 30. On board the Garland. Thomas Cook to Mr. 
 Edisbury. 
 
 Boats and cordage have been sold by the master which would be of 
 use to fit our ship. 
 
 1628, July 30. London. Richard Poole to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Concerning 280 the remainder of 1,300 payable to Sir Francis 
 Nedham in August for the purchase of the lease of Melbourne Rectory. 
 Mine honourable Lady and Mr. Elwes remember their kindest love and 
 the children their duties. 
 
 1028, July 31. Southwick. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Asks Sir John Coke to bring when he next comes to Court a certifi- 
 cate of the Commissioners appointed to consider a Book of Examinations 
 concerning priests sent over from my Lord Deputy of Ireland. 
 
 1628, August 6. Poole. Thomas Roberts (Mayor) to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 Four Frenchmen of lusty body, lately brought in by Captain Frost 
 who brought over the two Monsieurs from Jersey now at Court, are 
 sent to be employed in the intended service. 
 
 1628, August 6. Dublin. Alexander Spicer to Sir John Coke. 
 
 In discharge of my duty to God, the King's Majesty, and this 
 pooi- kingdom I present these ensuing advertisements. How great 
 is the exultation of the papists, how insufferable their insolences, 
 daily building chapels. Whereas we have 14 churches in Dublin for 
 our divine service, they have 16 mass houses for their idolatry. Not 
 far from Dublin in a town of note mass is said so near the church 
 with such noise and ostentation that the minister is shamefully inter- 
 rupted in his devotions, and the people distracted in theirs. What, 
 can be expected but misery, treachery, desolation. I conceive one 
 main reason of these extremities is the little credence of, or the slow 
 despatch unto the advertisements of the Lord Deputy and Council 
 here, whom I may in some things resemble to the Patricii in Pome, 
 who as Plutarch writes did use to put on their robes and hear causes 
 which other men did either determine before; or cross afterwards. 
 The natives do in part maintain the King's army, consisting of 5,000 
 foot and 500 horse, when in the meantime they support (as it is 
 credibly said) near 20,000 priests of lewd, haughty, and seditious 
 spirits. If they were banished, the King's charge might be lessened 
 and our fears secured, but haply there may be danger in such a 
 course, assuredly no. Either a foreign enemy is expected or not if 
 we look for none, why are they thus humoured ; if we expect one, 
 why are they enabled and permitted to stay here that they may assist 
 him. Every popish holiday they have a box of devotion so called, and 
 the ample offerings are paid over by the priests to the fathers, from 
 them to the titular bishops and so closely transported beyond sea for 
 popish uses. 
 
 1628, August 0. Southampton. Nicholas Pescod to Sir ,J. Coke. 
 
 Professes his zeal. Has a pinnace of 32 tons fitted for a voyage, if 
 his Honour wants such a bark. 
 
 1628, August 8. Buckingham House. George Villiers, Duke of 
 Buckingham, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Advise with my brother of Denbigh that 4 or 5 ships he presently 
 fitted and sent to Plymouth to take aboard provisions, principally beer, 
 biscuit, beef, and fish. I set forth from here on Monday next towards
 
 362 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Portsmouth. If the mariners make difficulty to go until they are 
 paid some of their arrears I pray cause the Treasurer of the Navy 
 to pay what shall be needful. The ships to be sent to have sufficient 
 provision to carry them to Plymouth. 
 
 1628, August 7. Wainstead. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 It is an ill wind that blows nobody good. If the foul weather 
 yesterday stopped my hunting and brought you a good draught of 
 fish, it was the better catch of the two for me, having from your kind- 
 ness received a dainty dish of fish. I make account my Lord Duke 
 will be here this day or tomorrow at furthest. The first hour I can 
 find at freedom I will come, kiss your hands, and understand how far 
 your French prisoners have advanced their business. 
 
 1628, August 9. Wainstead. Viscount Conway to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The Duke his gentleman assured His Majesty that he will be at 
 Sonthwick on Monday night where the King also resolved to be. He 
 desires that the troops may be put into all possible readiness. If it be 
 not unmannerly I would entreat that you would vouchsafe to dine with 
 me this day. Sir Thomas Jarvois being a Deputy Lieutenant may give 
 us great assistance. If anything be requisite to be done before the 
 King's coining, this is the day for the preparing thereof. 
 
 1628, August 10. Dublin. Alexander Spicer to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty at the Court. 
 
 It pleased you honour upon the Lord Brooke's mediation to vouchsafe 
 me both access and favour at Court, and by your gracious furtherance 
 I was then sworn his Majesty's servant. At my coming hither I 
 found the Protestants much disquieted and discontented touching their 
 religion ; how great is the exultation of the Papists, how insufferable 
 their insolences, daily building chapels wherein to say mass. We 
 have II churches in Dublin for our divine service, they have 16 mass 
 houses for their idolatry. Assuredly the Popish priests have been 
 heard to say, as we have an equal share in religion, so ere long we will 
 have it in their minister's means, living, maintenance. There are con- 
 tinual outcries in sermons before the State against the pride of idolatry 
 in this kingdom, yet the Lord Deputy hath no power or encouragement 
 to reform it. What greater dishonour can there be to the Lord Deputy 
 than that religion, which hath been countenanced by the Court in the 
 time of his ennobled predecessors, should now be slighted in his govern- 
 ment. I conceive one main reason of these extremities is the little 
 credence of or the slow despatch unto the advertisements of the Lord 
 Deputy and Council here. The natives do in part maintain the 
 King's army consisting of 5,000 foot and 500 horse, when in the mean- 
 time they support (as it is credibly said) near 20,000 priests of lewd, 
 haughty, and seditious spirits, if they were banished the King's charge 
 might be lessened and our fears secured. The Papists here do con- 
 tribute some few thousands for the King, but convey money out of the 
 land to his disadvantage. 
 
 1628, August 11. Weymouth. Michael Grenne to Sir John Coke. 
 
 There came this day Sir Nathaniel Napper, being one of the lieu- 
 tenants of the shire, to see what men were brought in from all parts of 
 his liberty, but when they came to appear they were the poorest and 
 unablest men, more fitting for an hospital than for the King's service. 
 The constable warned to appear before the justice and the Mayor 
 78 able seamen, and not one of them gave his appearance. 1 myself 
 pressing five or six there was one that resisted me and offered to draw
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 363 
 
 his rapier against me, but I gave him in keeping and mean to bring him 
 with me and there to answer his contempt. 1 think it fitting if your 
 Honour would be pleased that the Mayor and some of the constables 
 were sent for, for there is such neglect in them for their own ends. 
 Here be 500 as sufficient able men as be in all England. 
 
 1628, August 12. Weymouth. Michael Grenne to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's Privy Council and Secretary to His 
 Highness at Portsmouth. 
 
 I would entreat your Honour you would be pleased to send hither a 
 ship and pinnace. This present day the Mayor out of his simplicity 
 hath shewn himself what he is and how willing he is to further the 
 King's service he hath caused the drum to beat about the town 
 with proclamation that, whereas they were warned to appear as this 
 present day, it was put off till this day sennight. I will assure 
 you if a ship comes I will have men for it or it shall cost me a fall, for 
 here be above 500 men to be had. Further 1 will desire you that the 
 Mayor and some of the constables mought be sent for before you. 
 
 1628, August 20. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, ' ; A memorial of my Lady 
 of Rohan." 
 
 Le Roi d'Angleterre m'a envoye la Blacquiere pour me donner avis 
 du partement de son armee pour le secours de la Rochelle. 11 desire 
 savoir de moi ce qu'elle doit faire apres la vituaillement. Je lui mande 
 qu'elle doit faire descente en France et y fortifier quelque chose. Car 
 si elle s'en retourne pour la second fois sans faire cela nous sommes 
 rubles. La plus considerable province pour la descente est Guienne 
 ou il se pent faire un grand ralliement et ou on peut faire une forteresse 
 au Bee Dambais imprenable. Apres :e Roi d'Angleterre pent faire 
 la guerre en France tout autant de temps qu'il voudre et nous 
 faire donner le paix a telle conditions qu'il desirera. Apres la 
 Guienne une descente en Normandie ou en Languedoc sera de tres 
 grand frait. Je ue demand e que 4,000 homines de quoi tirer 4,000 
 coups de canon et que les munitions de guerre ne me manquent point; 
 moyennnnt quoi je promets d'assujettir le Rosne, de tendre la main 
 au Dauphine et au Due de Savoye. J'ai fait degat jusqu'aux portes 
 de Beaucaire. Je m'approche de Castres. Communiquez toutes les 
 choses ix Monsieur le Comte de Carlisle et m'en mandez son avis. 
 
 1628, August 20. Portsmouth. Sir John Coke to the Duke of 
 Buckingham. (Draft.) 
 
 The sailors who are gathered at Gosport in great numbers have given 
 notice to Captains Pell and Longworth, who have only 20 musketeers 
 each, that this night they will force their passage and will not he res- 
 trained from using their liberty in going whither they please. I have 
 advised them to keep careful guard this night with assurance of sending 
 more strength to-morrow into them. The ships riding so thick together 
 among the fire-ships may give opportunity to any malicious and discon- 
 tented person to do moie mischief than can be prevented. 
 
 1628, August 22. Whitehall. Sir William Beecher to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The enclosed warrant for the reprieve and sending to the Bermudas 
 of the persons mentioned in it, not signed by the Lords of the Council, 
 because the Commission for doing it is expired. Their Lordships desire 
 you to move His Majesty to grant a warrant under his hand and privy 
 signet for the reprieve and sending away. 
 
 Endorsed with draft address of Commission to Richard Lord Weston 
 our High Treasurer of England. William, Earl of Pembroke, Lord
 
 364 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Steward of our Household, Edward, Earl of Dorset, Lord Chamberlain 
 to our dear Consort the Queen, Dudley Viscount Dorchester, Vice- 
 Chamberlain of our Household, and Sir John Coke, Knight, one of our 
 Principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 Also endorsed with notes for ordering despatch of the Fleet; how 
 Monsieur Soubize shall be disposed of. 
 
 1628, August 23. Southwick. Viscount Conway, to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of his Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State at Ports- 
 mouth. 
 
 His Majesty being presently to enter into council and consultation 
 what is to be done now upon this miserable misaccident [the death of 
 the Duke of Buckingham] his pleasure is that you and the rest of the 
 Council that are now at Portsmouth do repair presently hither. Whereof 
 I pray you take knowledge yourself and give notice to the rest. You 
 may likewise if you think it good bring with you such of the officers as 
 can give an account of the present state of the fleet, that they may be 
 ready if there be occasion to use them. 
 
 1628, August 25. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, "Propositions du Mon- 
 sieur Peplitz and Kniphausen." 
 
 A long relation in French of the designs for the Avar of the late Duke 
 of Buckingham. Signed, G. J. Peblis,. D. Knyphausen. 
 
 Pour obeir aux coimnjindements de votre iVfajeste nous avons mis ici 
 ce que feu Monseigneur le Due de Buckingham de bonne memoire 
 s'avait propose de faire en ce present voyage pour le service de votre 
 Majeste comme il a communique avec nous et tenu conseil de la dite 
 matiere. Le tout consiste en quatre pointes desquels la premiere etait 
 d'avancer tant qu'il pourrait le dit voyage, .... faire publier les 
 articles de la discipline militaire lesquels nous lui avons proposes en 
 langue francaise et les lui a fait traduire en Anglais par Monsieur de 
 Wick. . . . croyant qu'il fut necessaire qu'il fut commando au capitaine 
 de chaque bateau qu'il le fit lire et publier a tous lesquels seront dedans, 
 tant soldats que matelots, et alors incontinent lever les ancres et nous 
 mettre en chemin pour aller directe vers la Rochelle. Y etant arrive 
 qu'on verrait les affaires a l'oeuil et qu'alors on pourrait juger le mieux 
 ce qu'on aurait a faire premierement. II croyait que la premiere 
 chose devait etre de tacher de battre les bateaux du Roi de France. 
 Ce sera alors temps de considerer comme on veut rompre les 
 palissades avec les bateaux crevents. Si nous pourrions secourir la 
 ville Monsieur le Due ue bonne memoire croyait que alorj on pourra 
 avoir une bonne paix ; (1) en laquelle il voulait proposer que le Roi de 
 France fut tenu de continuer pour la guerre d'Allemagne ce qu'il avait 
 promis au feu Comte de Mansfeldt et a, Bethlehem Gabor Car moi 
 Peblis lui avais remontre combien Bethlehem Gabor pouvait faire 
 aux affaires d'Allemagne, qu'il ni a personne laquelle les Imperialistes 
 redoubtent plus que lui. Bethlehem Gabor, nonobstant la paix 
 faite avec 1'Empereur, pent toujours avec de Fargent etre induit a 
 recommencer les affaires, je m'ai offert en un tel cas lui ecrire et suis 
 assure qu'il eioira autant a nies lettres que d'aucun autre. (2) que le 
 Roi de France paie a nous autres ce qu'il nous a injustement retire des 
 mains apres la mort du Comte de Mansfeldt et principalement y 
 devrait etre compris ce que touche 1' assurance de messieurs de la religion 
 en France. La seconde pointe d'aller avec toute l'armee a Plaver et 
 
 tacher de prendre cette place croyant que Monsieur de Soubise 
 
 irait voiontairement avec nous. Pour la troisieme pointe il avait 
 propose si les affaires fussent bien succedees a la Rochelle de tacher a
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 365 
 
 battre les bateaux prepares en Espagne. Pour la quatrieme pointe il 
 etait resolu s'il pouvait faire la paix en France d'aller tout droit avec 
 l'armee au seeours du Roi de Danemark .... nous lui avons propose 
 une certaine ile nommee le Strandt la 6u il pouvait aborder .... 
 grandement iucommoder 1'enDemi loge en Jutlande et Hol&tein voirele 
 contraindre de lever le siege de Gluckstadt et de Crempen .... on peut 
 faire une grande assistance a messieurs d'Emden en prenant quelques 
 places prineipales du pays et sur toutes autres Grivsil. Pour toutes 
 ces affaires feu son Excellence nous a dit qu'il preparait de l'argent 
 et en esperait d'avoir a, sultisance. De nous deux il avait desire non 
 seulement que nous fussions toujours a l'cntour de sa personne niais 
 aussi que moi Peblis cntreprise le Generalat de l'Artillerie et moi 
 Knyphausen l'office du Sergent de Bataille. A cette heure, puisque le 
 grand Dieu a permis que par la raaudite main d'un traitre Monsieur le 
 Due de bonne memoire nous est ote, nous reraettons tout au bon plaisir 
 de votre Majeste. 
 
 1628, August 27. Southwick. Sir James Bagg to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Asks certificate of ill victuals of Plymouth supplied at Portsmouth, 
 that the brewers and bakers may give His Majesty satisfaction. Also 
 the names of those eleven victuallers. 
 
 1(528, August 31. Wickham. Henry Danvers, Earl of Dan by, to 
 Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I enclose this letter to any such sea commanders as you shall think 
 most fitly employed about Guernsey and Jersey with thanks for the 
 care and favour you have expressed in the preservation of those poor 
 islands. 
 
 1628, August 31. Edmonton. Thomas Aimed to Sir John Coke, 
 at Portsmouth. 
 
 Thanks for your honourable remembrance on my behalf to the Lord 
 Keeper who hath so freely conferred that living to my no small credit 
 and contentment. My Lady would know whether you will direct 
 anything to be prepared for yourself or Mr. John Coke or anything else 
 concerning the journey. 
 
 1628, August . Portsmouth, apres diner. Le Prieur de Bremond 
 a Monsieur M. Coke, Conseiller et Secretaire d'Etat et des com- 
 mandements de sa Majeste a Portsmouth. 
 
 Je suis ties marri de vous importuner de me faire 1'honneur de venir 
 jusqu'ici, ou me permettre d'aller a vous; mais il importe grandement 
 que je puisse avoir celui de vous parler aujourdhui. 
 
 1628, September 2. Edward Peed to Sir John Coke, Knight, Prin- 
 cipal Secretary unto His Majesty, at Portsmouth. 
 
 My Lord Brooke being upon Saturday come to town and resolving 
 to go down this day for Warwickshire was arrested here by his servant 
 Ralph Hay wood, who trussing his points stabbed him into two places 
 in the left side, the upper blow is between the lower ribs and next the 
 hack (perhaps mortal) : the second and low,-r blow is but a tlesh wound 
 and the cure not doubted. When Haywood had wounded him, foein- 
 alone with him in his chamber, he ran from him, left him bleeding 
 and locked him in with a double lock, and ran himself into his own 
 chamber which he locked also, opened his doublet and with die same 
 knife gave himself four wounds into his breast, upon which he presently 
 died. My Lord Brooke calling loud, Mr. W ilson came unto him 
 and with his double key opened the door, found him bleedin" but not 
 any whit amazed, neither did desire that if Haywood were escaped out
 
 366 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 of the house that he should be prosecuted, desiring that not any man 
 should lose his life for him. After I heard of his hurt I went to see 
 him, and found him to speak heartily, and not any whit to be troubled 
 with the danger but much with the pain. This morning my Lord's 
 wounds are to be opened again, upon which the sui'geons think to 
 give some guess of the state of him. My Lord had given Haywood 
 201. a year for his life now at his coming from Warwick. 
 
 1628, September 3. Southwick. Viscount Conway to Siv J. Coke. 
 Asks a copy of what Sir John Coke signified to the States Ambassador 
 before his going on board, touching the business of Amboyna. 
 
 1628, September .5. Southwick. Lord Weston, Lord Treasurer, 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I did yesterday move His Majesty in the coach that as I was the 
 cause of your employment here, so His Majesty would be pleased to 
 give you your liberty. His Majesty thanked me for both, and said it 
 was reason you should take your ease for you had done him extreme 
 good service in this expedition. 
 
 1628, September 5. Southwick. Viscount Conway to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Yesterday I gave Lord Dorchester to show to you a remonstrance of 
 the East India Merchants to the Lords of the Council in London. He 
 promised to bring from you a narrative of what was concluded that 
 there should be no contradiction in the directions. 
 
 Wainstead. Viscount Conway to Sir J. Coke at Portsmouth. 
 
 His Majesty is pleased to give you liberty, so soon as he shall go 
 from Southwick, to take your way towards London and dispose yourself 
 to your own business for a month or longer, and where your occasions 
 shall lead you. 
 
 1628, September 6. Southwick. Henrv Eich, Earl of Holland, 
 K.G,, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The remainder of the Scottish troops left behind by reason of strait 
 room on shipboard to be again billeted in the Isle of Wight and 
 carefully kept together until the return of my Lord Morton. 
 
 1628, September 14. Portsmouth Dock. Matthew Brooke to Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 Particulars of victuallers and transports that have sailed and that 
 remain. 
 
 1628, September 25. The Fleet Prison. Edward Ingham to Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 Your honour moved the late Lord Treasurer to make me an order 
 for 20/., which order passed all through the offices to the Tellers, where 
 it stuck : my friends' solicitations no more penetrated to compassion 
 towards me than the howling of a dog would do that were tied up of 
 purpose to be starved. 
 
 1628, September 26. Captain Baxter's information of the stale of 
 the French ships in North Holland. They have left Enchusen, and are 
 riding in deep water. The Hollanders to serve in them are masters, 
 pilots, gunners, boatswains, trumpeters, and other like officers. 
 
 1628, October 6. Mr. Clarke's information touching the French 
 men-of war, and the Holland East Indian ships lying to go forth to 
 Texel.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 367 
 
 1628, October 18. Portsmouth Dock. Matthew Brooke to Sir J. 
 Coke. 
 
 It hath pleased His Majesty to bestow upon me the collecting of his 
 Admiralty Tenths. I presume not to meddle with the property of the 
 Tenths knowing well they are at His Majesty's dispose, and if His 
 pleasure be to bestow them on the Duchess or any else I shall be ready 
 in all duty to be accountable for them. 
 
 1628, October 18. Bailiffs of Yarmouth to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 God having this season blessed our fishing, we again ask the same 
 licence as last year to transport 600 lasts of herrings on strangers 
 bottoms. 
 
 1628, October 20. Aboard the Carnation at Plymouth. Captain 
 Robert Hackwell to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 We in all of our ships desire and expect your honour's order daily 
 for the revictualling of all our fleets. We have been four several times 
 in the Sound of Plymouth, and once at sea and in sight of TIshant, but 
 through contrary winds and leaky ships we are forcc-d buck. 
 
 1628, October 20. Dublin Castle. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland, 
 " for your Honour." Indorsed by Sir John Coke, " Lord Deputy of 
 Ireland from Dublin," and precis by him. 
 
 " Complaineth of the hardest oppression that ever so faithful 
 a minister felt. His Majesty's approbation of his proceedings sent 
 by the Lord Conway ; two days after direction by him to stop, 
 and a commission sent wherein his mortal enemies were Commissioners 
 ' Lord Chanc. Sir Francis Anneslcy and Sir Arthur Savage, the 
 Lord Wilmot being little less.' Never before seen that men accused 
 for murder and treason and by a grand jury found guilty should, upon 
 the suggestions of the delinquents obtain a suspension of their trial 
 till the magistrates were first tried. Consequences hereof: dis- 
 couragement of magistrates: animation of malefactors: terror of 
 witnesses. King's Council weakened. British subjects will abandon 
 their station. His carriage in this in all circumstances upright : 
 justified upon his trial. The crimes the proofs." 
 
 1628, October 27. Enniskillen. William Coke to the Lord Viscount 
 Falkland, Lord Deputy of Ireland. 
 
 There has lately come into the county of Fermanagh from the Arch- 
 duchess side five of the natives of the said county, four of them having 
 served there as soldiers and one being a priest, who say they took ship- 
 ping at Dunkirk and landed at Margate in England. Hugh Maguirc 
 (the priest), and liory og ill Cabu being proper men, well clothed and 
 gentlemens sons and coming from that place, I sent for them having 
 notice that the said Hugh Maguire had procured a bull from Koine to 
 be Dean of Clogher. He bein^ formerly a scholar in the College of 
 Dublin procured him a Vicarage in this Diocese, but he through waste- 
 ful courses ran himself far into debt, and and thereupon went into the 
 Low Countries where he altered his religion again. 1 feared that the 
 said Hugh would prove a knave and 1 liked not of these private 
 journeys that he had made to and fro amongst the King's enemies under 
 the colour of a soldier, and I doubted that he had some naughty practise 
 in hand. Owen Ohowen, a curate, said Hugh lay in his house the last 
 night, and having made question what benefit it were for the said Hugh 
 to be a Dean there when others had the profit of the place, Hugh's 
 answer to him was that " the Spaniards would shortly come hither and 
 we shall have all our own rights,"
 
 368 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokbMSS. 1628, October 30. Aboard His Majesty's ship the St. George. 
 
 Robert Bertie, Earl of Lindaey, to the Lords of the Council. 
 
 I have despatched away this gentleman Sir James Scott to acquaint 
 your Lordships that His Majesty's fleet is now setting sail for England. 
 It will be more than necessary that your Lordships take into considera- 
 tion how the soldiers shall be disposed of upon our arrival before 
 Portsmouth, and that the sailors be likewise victualled and provided 
 especially with beer, lest that being so near they all run ashore, both 
 land and sea men. As touching the rendering of Rochelle, which was 
 the 20th of this present October, and other passages, I iefer your 
 Lordships to this bearer's relation. 
 
 1628, October. Richard Poole to Sir J. Coke. 
 Asks to be clerk in your Honour's service in place of Mr. Thackor 
 deceased. If granted will obtain letters of thankfulnes, from Mr. Sergeant 
 Hoskins,. Mr. Doctor Hoskins, and others. 
 
 1628, October. Humphrey Fulwoode to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I doubt not but many are solicitors for Mr. Thacker's place, English 
 and anciemest secretary unto your Honour, yet I do well hope I shall 
 succeed him in the same, having been his second for the space of three 
 years past. I am humbly bold to beseech your Honour to let me know 
 what business I may account as proper to that employment, that thereby 
 such differences and discontents may be avoided as heretofore have been, 
 by every one catching at all men's business, none knowing any proper to 
 himself. The businesses, as I have formerly been given to understand 
 and do conceive, that do properly belong to this employment are as 
 follow : 
 
 First, the copying from your Honour's hand, writing as you shall 
 dictate, writing out fair and entering into a book of all ordinary business, 
 and despatches to Ambassadors, as also orderly to keep all such letters 
 and other things as shall be received from Ambassadors or others of like 
 nature. 
 
 Secondly, the ordinary presenting under your Honour of all petitions, 
 as also the writing of all answers upon petitions and the same to enter 
 into a book. 
 
 Thirdly, the keeping of all such writings as concern the several States 
 abroad ; as also all writings concerning his Majesty's service, as 
 businesses for the Council Board, business concerning recusants, with the 
 like. 
 
 Fourthly, the presenting unto your Honour the signet docquets as 
 they are brought, first knowing your pleasure, and then to see to the 
 orderly sealing, and in bundles to lay the docquets up, and with them 
 safely to keep all warrants of the Lord Treasurer or any other, 
 ordering the sealing of anything which formerly your Honour made stay 
 of. 
 
 Fifthly, the making of all warrants issuing from your Honour, as 
 warrants for the apprehending of delinquents, port warrants, &c 
 
 Sixthly, the rtceiving of your Honour's dividends at the Signet, 
 Pettybag and Hanaper. 
 
 There is one thing more most proper to this employment, the present- 
 ing to and delivering from your Honour of all bills, letters and other 
 things to which you are to procure His Majesty s royal signature ; that 
 of all those there may be a careful entry made into a book, to the end 
 that since His Majesty's signature to unwarranted businesses may be 
 sinisterly proved or forged, and being afterwards called in question, it 
 may be alleged your Honour did procure it, to right yourself and easily 
 to discover such treachery, this entry will be more necessary.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 369 
 
 Now may it please your Honour, inasmuch as by all the businesses 
 herein-before mentioned little more than experience can be gained, and 
 by this of the bills, letters, &c, signing by His Majesty ordinarily and 
 warrantably some profit is and may be made, and considering that 
 the catching at of this business was the occasion of most difference 
 heretofore, I do humbly beseech your Honour to make known your 
 pleasure that no other shall have to do therein. 
 
 These businesses and all others of like nature properly do belong to 
 the English and ancientest secretary. The French, Latin, and German 
 secretaries or the like meddle but with their French, Latin, and 
 German businesses, having allowances the best 40/., the other 20/. or 
 30/. per annum a piece at most. 
 
 Your Honour pleasing at my humble suit to give me this employ- 
 ment, my utmost endeavours shall carefully be bent to make good 
 the hope I have that your Honour will shortly find much content 
 and ease thereby. 
 
 1628, November 6. Robert Bertie, Earl of Lindsey, to Sir J. Coke. 
 For Captain Huse to be one of the four Masters Attendants of the 
 Navy in the place of Richard Harris deceased. 
 
 1628, November 9. Plymouth Sir James Bagg to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Hopes the Fleet, having a strict command from their General, will 
 arrive in a body at Portsmouth. When I know they are there I will 
 speed to the Court for the passage of my account. 130 sail of Low 
 Countrymen are now here, of which 12 are laden with deals, pitch, and 
 tar, and it is supposed some masts. These stores may be bought to the 
 furnishing of this kingdom. 
 
 1628, November 9. Golden Grove. Sir J ohn Vaughan, Earl of 
 Carbery, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 If my supplication shall succeed by your Honour's procurement I 
 will not be ungrateful, neither in my affection nor in the freedom of my 
 purse. For my Spanish journey in waiting on His Majesty it cost me 
 between 3 and 4000, and in all the 12 years of my service I have 
 spent near 20,000. At the late King's decease I was discharged of 
 my office. I have endured my expulsion patiently according to my 
 duty ; yet I must confess His Majesty promised to repay me in a 
 most honourable and princely fashion, the performance I do submit tc 
 his own time and pleasure. My disposition is modest that I cannot ba 
 importunate. If you are not disposed to move His Majesty therein, I 
 beseech you to bury my motion in secrecy. 
 
 1628, November 14. Filippe Burlamachi to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Que les provisions pour Luckstad (Gluckstadt) soient depechees pour 
 le faire du convoy. Je n'entends ricn de la provision pour le transport 
 des Ecossais. 
 
 1628, November 16. Portsmouth. Ken. Edisbury to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Has mustered with Mr. Short and Mr. Brook 16 or 17 of the ships 
 as they came in. Mr. Francis Brook will muster the others as they 
 came in. The names of the landmen have been taken. My estimate 
 of price required not too great. (Particular reasons given). This unruly 
 multitude wanting victuals cannot be quieted by words. We have 
 already paid some ships, the land soldiers are all cleared. The Scottish 
 regiment we hear will be discarded. Of the 25,000/. required only 
 8,000/. is come. 
 
 U 24963. A A
 
 370 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1628, November 18. Portsmouth. Sir Gylford Slingsby to Sir J. 
 Coke. 
 
 Want of victuals and of beer by leakage. Persons backward to bring 
 in their books, they come in very torn. I did never see in my life ships 
 so manned, some having more than their number and few of them any 
 fewer. 
 
 1628, November 27. Brooke House. Isaac Dorislaus to Sir J. 
 Coke. [In Latin.] 
 
 Lord Brooke had seen fit to place him in the Professor's chair he had 
 given to the University of Cambridge. The salary was to run from 
 May 1627. Dorislaus returned to his own country to bring his family 
 and returned about the beginning of October. His patron, being 
 snatched away by an unheard of act of wickedness, did not advert to the 
 fulfilment of his promise, leaving it to the care and prudence of Sir J. 
 Coke (his executor). He asks a house at Cambridge suited to the 
 Professorship ; salary from May to October ; his expenses in^ travelling 
 and changing his abode. 
 
 1628, November 30. Portsmouth. Kenrick Edisbury to Sir J. 
 Coke. 
 
 Matthew Brooke of the Dock hath been long sick and cannot 
 continue. At the instance of Mistress Brooke and his son recommends 
 John Holland to be appointed to the place. If money comes down the 
 pay will be finished by the end of this week. 
 
 1628, November 30. The Duchy House. Viscount Falkland 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty 
 at his house at Garlick Hill. 
 
 I have perused the Remonstrances and the Examinations which you 
 delivered me yesterday. ... I would be glad you would be pleased to 
 assemble the Committees, unto whose consideration I would propose 
 some scruples, to be resolved by them before I can dispose myself aptly, 
 to my answers. 
 
 1628, November. A paper indorsed by Sir John Coke : "Payments 
 made at Portsmouth." 
 
 An accompt presented to your Lordship as well of the monies paid 
 at Portsmouth to the companies discharged out of sundry his Majesty's 
 own ships and other vessels and divers merchant ships employed in his 
 Highness service in the late fleet to Rochelle, as also of such other 
 directions required by your Lordship's instructions touching the settling 
 of the business there. 
 
 Ships and vessels - - - - - 35 
 
 Fireship and vessels burned and lost - - 17 
 
 Merchant ships - - - - - 24 
 
 Corn ships and victuallers - - - 14 
 
 Ships t^ast away - - - - 4 
 
 Total sum paid 20,200/. 15s. 6d, 
 
 Fourteen other merchant ships might for their contentment receive a 
 sum of 290/. out of the surplusage of the money sent down for the 
 fleet. 
 
 1628, December 7. . Pieter Rychaut to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Asks that the masts of William Bartolotti of Amsterdam may not be 
 unladen from the ship St. Peter of Horn bound for Leghorn and now 
 retained at Plymouth.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 371 
 
 1628, December 8. Westminster. Sir Robert Pye to Sir J. Coke. 
 This bearer (Richard Beale) is my kinsman, has been two years 
 
 lieutenant, is able to command in so small a ship as one of the " Whelps." 
 
 1629. To Mr. Secretary Coke at the Signet for the 3 17 4 
 month of November 1629. 
 
 At the Hanaper and Pettibag after Hilary Term 1629 15 1 
 
 (Signed) Windebank. 
 
 1628, December 9. Your Majesty's Castle of Dublin. Henry Cary 
 Viscount Falkland. 
 
 May it please your sacred Majesty. They were joyous tidings to my 
 heart that your Majesty had vouchsafed to hear Sir Henry Belling and 
 from him had received full satisfaction that your humble servant was 
 faithful and upright in that particular of Phelim McPheagh, wherein 
 malice and practise had so scandalously endeavoured to traduce me . . . 
 Either be pleased to take off the blemish of this Commission of Enquiry 
 which clouds your Deputy and disables him to serve you and which effects 
 nothing but the delay of the malefactors' trials ; or else that they 
 may be changed. At the least I humbly crave the Lord Chancellor 
 may be either changed or excluded. 
 
 1628, December 11. Dublin Castle. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty and one 
 of the Lords of his most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Lord Deputy of Ireland from Dublin. 
 His name not subscribed." 
 
 By Sir Henry Belling's relation I understand how nobly you have 
 favoured him and endeavoured to right me, the great and unprecedented 
 sufferer of Christendom. If His Majesty lose this fair opportunity 
 to plant that nursery of rebellion which the hand of justice will put 
 into his power, if he permit it to proceed against Phelim McPheagh, it 
 will never be had again. I cannot deny but many will mislike it out 
 of several arguments. Nay there is a general fear that if such a 
 settlement of peace should be made, then would all the treasure of this 
 land soon run into His Majesty's coffers. 
 
 1628, December 11. Billesley. Sir Robert Lee (brother in law) to 
 Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Sir Robert Harley, Sir Francis Seymour, the Lord Wentworth, are 
 in the business, which is, to obtain from the Lord Treasurer, the execu- 
 tion of the place for two lives. They that now execute it are powerful. 
 Asks continued favour and assistance. My wife's service to yourself and 
 my sister. 
 
 1628, December 12. Plymouth Abraham Biggs to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The Admiral Galleon taken by the Dutch is for insufficiency brought 
 into Falmouth that her goods may be laden in another bottom. This 
 yields customs to His Majesty. 
 
 1628, December 12. Pieter Rychaut to Sir J. Coke. 
 If the masts are unloaded, that they be delivered to Martin of Ply- 
 mouth to make sale of them. 
 
 1628, December 13. Chatham. Henry Goddard to Sir J Coke. 
 
 For a new lighter, such as is at Chatham, to be built at Portsmouth. 
 The Eagle at Chatham is 40 feet broad and 114 long. Charge 
 would be cast away on the Bear, who is sharp and tickell under water 
 and decayed in her timber and plank. 
 
 A A 2
 
 372 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1628, December 22. Christ Church, Oxford. Dr. Samuel Fell to 
 Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Mr. Philip has laid down the monies due unto your Honour beyond 
 which I am debtor for .19 for implements at Hall Court. Asks for 
 any evidences or writings concerning this land passed to him. 
 
 1628, December 24. A la prison de Londres. Monsieur Bremond, 
 " Phomme de douleur en Angleterre," a Monsieur Monsieur Coke, 
 Secretaire d'Etat et des commandements de sa Majeste en Cour. 
 
 [Endorsed by Sir J. Coke " Monsieur Bremond from the Marshalsea. 
 Apprehended at Portsmouth coming from France with pretence of 
 service upon offence against the Cardinal pretended to be both a Cheva- 
 lier and a Priest."] 
 
 Vous m'aviez fait esperer votre credit a ce que je pusse temoigner 
 ma foi par les euvres au secours de la pauvre Rochelle. Je ne 
 puisse ailleurs que dans une geole temoigner a la France que Dieu s'est 
 reserve beaucoup de creatures qui n'ont point plie le genouil devant 
 Baal. L'inquisition d'Espagne ni du Pape n'a jamais ete si 
 injurieuse a personne qu'a ete celle qu'on a exerce et exerce encore 
 journellement contre moi. Je reclame votre entremise sur l'assurance 
 que m'a donne M. Primerose. 
 
 Le samedi matin, En Purgatoire de Londres. Monsieur Bremond a 
 Monsieur Monsieur Coke, Secretaire du Roi en Court. 
 
 Neron a ete tenu avec raison le plus impie de tous les princes, le 
 plus inique des Rois, le plus inhumain de tous les hommes, en un mot 
 un monstre du genre humain, et cependant nous lisons que St. Paul 
 ayant appelle a, lui et requis d'etre conduit a son tribunal, qu'il y eut 
 deux fbis audience et n'a ete condamne sans etre oui en ses defenses. 
 
 On dira que c'est un Francais que j'ai emmene en ma campagnie 
 qui s'est rendu mon accusateur. Helas la presence de l'Eternel 
 n'empecha point Lucifer de faire une revolte dans le ciel. La justice 
 d'Abel ne la garantit point de la main fratricide de son frere 
 Cain, Noe et son fils, Esau et Jacob, Joseph et ses freres, Samson et 
 Delila, David et Absalom, Jesus Christ et Judas. II vous sera aise a 
 reconnoitre cette verite quand aous voudrez serieusement avoir egard 
 a 1'accusation et a Paccuse, quand vous peserez le temps les motifs la 
 fin en un mot tous les tenants et aboutissants de la chose. 
 
 1628, December 24. Dublin Castle.- Henry Cary, Viscount Falk- 
 land, Lord Deputy of Ireland, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Asks speed in the matter of the patentees of the office of Examinator 
 for the Plaintiff, wherein if you fail the patent will be utterly destroyed. 
 
 1628, December 26. Heswell near Durham. Sir Henry Anderson to 
 Sir J. Coke. 
 
 His Majesty hath pricked me to be Sheriff of Northumberland this next 
 year. I have, by reason of my infirmity of body and to pay my debts 
 turned over most of my estate to my children, and have taken myself 
 to live retiredly iu Yorkshire. One part of the oath of a sheritf is to 
 reside in his proper person, which I can in no way do, having no means 
 nor place of habitation there, but am a mere stranger who shall never 
 be able to effect anything in a broken ill-governed country that never 
 was yet reduced to any legal kind of government. 
 
 1628, December . Philip Burlamachi to Sir J. Coke (in French). 
 Reports the slowness in preparation of a ship. Beer and victuals 
 wanting.
 
 is. Od., viz., 
 
 00 02 00 
 00 01 00 
 02 15 00 
 
 for June - 
 July - 
 August 
 Sept. - 
 
 Fees - 
 Rests - 
 
 47 08 09 
 49 00 04 
 49 00 04 
 47 08 09 
 
 192 18 02 
 3 01 00 
 
 03 01 00 
 
 189 17 
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 373 
 
 1628, December .John St. John (a priest) to Sir J. Coke. CokeMS 
 
 I owe my life unto your honour. As concerning my affection to the 
 King and State, I can bring stranger and native witnesses that I have 
 still thought it more glorious to have been a neglected Englishman than 
 a respected foreigner. I met those friends in a tavern who kept me 
 from starving in a prison. 
 
 1628. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. "Board wages for June, July, 
 August, and September 189/. \1s.Qd. net." 1628, October 18, received 
 of Mr. Holland for yourHonour board wages for the months of June, July 
 
 Disbursed for fees as follows : 
 For the 4 bills 
 
 For the 4 debets to Mr. Dawson 
 To the clerks and under clerks 
 
 entd. 
 
 (1628). A paper in Sir J. Coke's writing endorsed by him " Copy of 
 a letter to the Arch, of Canterbury touching Bishop Montague's 
 letter." 
 
 Most Reverend Father in God. His Majesty hath taken notice, I 
 know not by what means of a letter, said to be written to your Grace 
 from Doctor Montague now Bishop of Chichester, importing a re- 
 cantation or desertion of those opinions wherewith he hath been charged. 
 Of this letter His Majesty desireth to have sight, and to that end hath 
 commanded me to write unto Your Grace that you will send it unto him 
 with convenient speed. I beseech you take notice hereof for His- 
 Majesty's satisfaction, and command Your Grace's most humble and 
 ready servant. 
 
 1628. Portsmouth. Peter White to Sir J. Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy 
 Council. 
 
 As to ships in Stokes Bay. The Peter to carry ordnance and 
 munitions to Plymouth. 
 
 (1628 probably.) A paper without date. Endorsed " His Majesty's 
 declaration touching precedency betwixt the English and Scottish and 
 Irish nobility." 
 
 His Majesty having this day in full council taken into consideration 
 a petition exhibited unto him by the nobility of England in the time of 
 the late assembly of parliament, touching such of the English nation as 
 being advanced to degrees of nobility in Scotland and Ireland and 
 having no possessions in those kingdoms do notwithstanding take place 
 before the respective degrees of nobility of this realm, His Majesty hath 
 thought lit for the present not to alter the said precedeucies according to 
 the course and practice hitherto used. And his Majesty hath given in 
 charge as well to the Lord Keeper of the Great Seal of England as to 
 all other his officers and ministers unto whom it may appertain that in 
 all commissions x none of the said nobility of Scotland or Ireland 
 having no possession or livelihood in those kingdoms as aforesaid shall 
 from henceforth be nominated or inserted as commissioners without 
 special direction from His Majesty x And His Majesty doth further
 
 374 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 expect and require that in all other public and private meetings the 
 said parties respectively do demean themselves according to the pre- 
 cedent forms of civil respects and terms of courtesy to foreign nobility 
 thereby meriting the continuation of His Majesty's good opinion for 
 their discreet carriage in that behalf, and as on the contrary His Majesty 
 will hold and esteem those persons not worthy of his favour that here- 
 after shall any way either in words or actions raise debate and quarrels 
 for precedency . . . And His Majesty's will and pleasure is that the 
 Earl Marshal of England do take special notice of this his present order 
 and accordingly do procure as much as in him lieth that the same be 
 duly put in execution. 
 
 (The passages in italics appear to be alterations in the King's 
 writing.) 
 
 1628. A paper in the writing of Sir John Coke. 
 "A particular of the grounds belonging to Hale Court Bridgehouse the 
 Hallen and the Bailies in Kinwaston in the parish of Muchraarcle in 
 Herefordshire." 
 
 (" Copy of this particular given to Mr. Boughton for Dr. Samuel Fell.") 
 Hale Court and Bridgehouse. 
 
 Meadow and Pasture : Broad meadow, Langwet, Drake leazow, 
 Sheep leazow, Stocking, Moor, Little Orchard, Great Orchard, Heines 
 Croft, Pease close and Beans close, New Orchard, Ferny leazow, Two 
 Hide leazows, Acre in Rye meadow, Hurst Green, Hales leazow, Bailies 
 meadow, Hurst pleck, Great Rushy leazow, Little Rushy leazow, Lampit 
 leazow, Carpenters Croft, Bridgehouse meadow, Bridgehouse Croft, 
 Moor pleck, Orley pleck and meadow, Perry Pleck. Total of meadow 
 and pasture 122/. 15s. Od. 
 
 Arable ; Baldridding, Dryhurst, Hale field, Ax field and Tumpy 
 leazow, Cockyard, Royal field with Pierces pleck, Moor field, 
 Ashpole field, Wunder field, Etonshall, Crownest field, Netchfield. Total 
 for arable 37/. 10s. Od. 
 
 Hallen. 
 
 Meadow and Pasture : Long meadow, Church field Green, Omberland, 
 Long Orchard, Chuts Green, Dingle, Chapel pleck, Ashpole pleck, Two 
 Orchards, Rye meadow. Arable 70 acres at 3s. 4c/. one with another. 
 Total 34/. Is. 4c?. 
 
 The dwelling-house with stables, barn, sheep-cote, ox-house, wain- 
 house, kiln-house, cyder-house, and other necessary buildings all built 
 new from the ground, with the charge of gardens, orchards, fish pools, 
 &c, cannot be valued at less than 1,000/. 
 
 The farmhouse at the Hallen is also new built, with the barn, ox- 
 house, and other out-houses, which cost not so little as 100/. 
 
 The tenure of the Hale Court Bridgehouse and Hallen is in free 
 socage held of the manors of Muchmarcle and Marcle Audleys. It 
 cannot be found that any heir of this land was ever ward. 
 
 1628. A paper indorsed by S r J. Coke : " Ships victualled at 
 London under command of Captain Pennington." 
 
 A list of 59 vessels, victualled for periods varying from 8 to 126 days, 
 between 1 June and 2 November 1628. 
 
 (1628.) A paper headed ** The state of the business of Canada or New 
 France, 1628/'
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 375 
 
 Auno 1603. The French king granted a patent to Monsieur de CogE Mss 
 Monts and his partners of La Cadia and Canada, since which time the 
 French have made many voyages into those parts for plantations, trade, 
 and discovery, and have fortified at Port Royal and some other places of 
 La, Cadia, and continued a trade with the savages for furs and pelory 
 (pelleterie?). Likewise they have discovered 300 leagues in the Great 
 River of Canada, and finding those parts to yield more trade and hopes 
 of discovery than La Cadia, they have more seriously prosecuted the 
 trade and plantation there, having discovered in the Gulf of Canada 
 many islands and bays very commodious for fishing, the fish of those 
 parts so much exceeding all other in greatness and goodness that the 
 French and Biscayuers employ in those coasts above 200 sail of ships 
 every year, whereby their mariners and navigation are much increased, 
 besides the great wealth they bring out of Spain, Italy, Barbary, and the 
 Straits in return of their fish. They have many plantations within the 
 Gulf and River of Canada, as Gaspe, Miscou, Bonaventure and Kebeck 
 {Quebec] but the principal is Kebeck, where they have built a post and 
 keep a garrison of 60 persons, who manage the trade with the savages. 
 And from this River of Canada and the parts adjacent, they yearly 
 transport into France to the value of 100,000 crowns in furs and pelory, 
 and as their discovery is enlarged and their acquaintance with the 
 savages, so doth their trade and profit increase. 
 
 Captain Kerck having obtained letters of marque furnished with those 
 good ships, and some 200 men and good pilots, which cost the Company 
 10,000/. at the least, had instructions to go into the Gulf and River of 
 Canada in New France, and to do his best to possess himself of the trade 
 and country and displant the French. 
 
 In March 1627 he set sail from England and arrived in the Gulf of 
 Canada in May following, when he took several ships and ruined all their 
 plantations ; from thence he proceeded up the river to Tadourac, where 
 he found five pinnaces which the French had built and left there the 
 year before, with intention to make use of them for their trade and 
 discovery in the river of Canada. One of these he armed and furnished 
 and went up the river towards Kebeck ; in the way he possessed himself 
 of their plantations between Tadousac and Kebeck, where they had their 
 corn and cattle, and destroyed their corn ; and arriving near unto Kebeck 
 sent summons unto the fort, showing them that he had spoiled their 
 winter provisions, and offering them means and passage for their return 
 into France upon rendering; which they refused without sight of the 
 cannon, entertaining hopes of speedy relief from the French fleet. So 
 Captain Kerck, not being well fitted for land service reviewing his men 
 and forces for the fleet, resolved not to assault it ; and having burnt the 
 pinnaces and taken away the French arms planted a little bebw 
 Tadousac, and set up the King of Englands arms in the place, spent his 
 time in trade and fishing near the mouth of the river till July following, 
 when the French fleet arrived, and after seven or eight hours fight 
 yielded. Then wanting men to man the ship he had taken, and the 
 time of the year being too far spent to go back to Kebeck, ne directed 
 his course to seek out the fishermen, and took some fourteen ships in all 
 (comprehending the French fleet for Canada) and 900 prisoners. The 
 greatest part of the prisoners were embarked in some prize ships, and sent 
 away into their country ; six of the best ships he brought home, and all 
 their munition and merchandize, and suns the rest having no men to man 
 them. 
 
 Now to bring their work to perfection there must be a strong fleet sent 
 out this next year so early that it may prevent the French, that the fort
 
 376 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cose MSB. f Kebeck may be taken before it be relieved, whicb must be fortified 
 manned and victualled ; likewise another place must be fortified which 
 the French Jesuits, who had lately usurped upon this plantation, had 
 chosen for their habitation. These places being well fortified, manned, 
 and victualled, and so being masters at sea this next summer, the whole 
 river is conquered, the trade with the savages assured, and all the profit 
 of fishing in the Gulf, Bays, and Islands at our command. The charge of 
 this will amount to 20,000/. at the least. The consequence of it is of 
 great weight, and deserveth the serious consideration of the State ; see- 
 ing the well undertaking and settling of it must needs yield an incredible 
 profit, and increase of mariners and shipping, besides honour to the 
 nation, and ruin to a great part of the French and Biskay shipping. 
 
 1628. Propositions of accommodation for the settling of the trade 
 and plantation in Canada or New Frauce. 
 
 1. Upon advertisement of the success of Captain Kerck's ship in 
 Canada, Earl Newburgh, for himself and his partners, repaired unto His 
 Majesty to acquaint him with it, and to demand a patent for the sole 
 trade and plantation of those countries, and which he was graciously 
 pleased to promise, and upon the return of Captain Kerck with his 
 prizes, and the particular relation of that service to give further assurauce 
 of that favour. 
 
 2. In opposition to the obtaining of this His Majesty's gracious promise 
 Sir William Alexander, Knight, Secretary of Scotland, pretends a sole 
 right to the trade and plantation of those countries upon a grant from 
 His Majesty under the great seal of the kingdom of Scotland procured 
 since the rupture between England and France, but hath not yet effected 
 anything towards the displanting of the French, which patent is not yet 
 produced. 
 
 3. It is considerable that the grant of all patents for sole trade and 
 plantation is laid upon conquest or discovery. 
 
 4. Supposing that Sir W. Alexander's patent doth invest him in a 
 right of title to the trade and plantation in New France, yet Earl New- 
 burgh and his partners having destroyed so much of the French planta- 
 tion, taken so many of their ships, possessed themselves of their best 
 pilots, pledges, and interpreters for the trade, and of all the materials 
 and instructions wherewith the French fleet was furnished, and discovered 
 all the Gulf Islands, and River unto Kebeck, may well be admitted 
 solely to the merit of having begun this conquest, so as to unite both 
 kingdoms in a work that is large enough to spread the glory of it over 
 both. 
 
 5. The French in the 25 years of their voyages into New France have 
 not planted yet any higher than Kebeck, and the said Earl Newburgh 
 and his partners offer unto Sir W. Alexander that in the right and 
 interest of the Crown of Scotland he shall possess for a sole plantation 
 of his nation all la Cadia, and all the country and coasts within the 
 Gulf of Canada on both sides of the river till they arrive within ten 
 leagues of Tadousac, which is much more than half of that which is 
 already planted by the French, and a great part of it adjoining to New 
 Scotland, reserving upon all those coasts free trade and harbours to the 
 mixed company and colony of English and Scottish who shall undertake 
 the rest. 
 
 6. They propound the dividing and proportioning of the rest in manner 
 and form following : That the whole being divided into 16 parts, Sir 
 W. Alexander shall have two parts and Earl Newburgh two parts, and 
 the rest to be shared amongst the merchants, pilots, and masters that 
 have thus far advanced the works.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 377 
 
 7. The colony that shall be planted above Tadousac to be mixed of c kh_MSS. 
 English and Scottish as the company shall find fittest. 
 
 8. Sir W. Alexander to surrender his patent, and a new patent to be 
 taken under the seals of both crowns in the names of the parties that they 
 being both united in this proportional interest may both participate 
 of the glory and advantages of the enterprize, the honour of the State 
 being now deeply engaged in it. 
 
 One thing now remains which weigheth much on our side, and may 
 incline Sir W. Alexander to these propositions. That Sebastian 
 Gabott in the year 1496, the 12 Henrici Septimi first set foot on that 
 continent, giving by his discovery the antientest right to those countries 
 to the crown of England. 
 
 (1628.) (Copy.) Petition to the King of Edward Lord Newburgh 
 and his partners, with Propositions for Accommodation. 
 
 Upon the reference to the Lord Keeper and the Lord Chancellor of 
 Scotland an accommodation is propounded by these lords about the 
 Gulf and River of Canada, which is yielded unto by the petitioner. 
 They pretend not to encroach upon Sir William Alexander's letters 
 patent of New Scotland; they are willing to part with the greatest 
 part of the territory within their own discovery and to limitation of 
 their trade to a term of years ; and in their patents to yield a proportion- 
 able acknowledgement of interest to Sir W. Alexander and his nation 
 without prejudice to the honour of this kingdom which having begun 
 the design will suffer most if it miscarry. The time is now pressing 
 for sending out their fleet, merchandise, and forces for the reducing 
 those countries and the trade with the savages which they are ready to 
 undertake with the charge of 30,000/. ; a week's delay may hazard all 
 the voyage. Asks that the absolute and binding determination of this 
 business may be referred to persons to be selected. 
 
 (1628, about.) Petition to the King. Oliver Clobery and William 
 Clobery of London, merchants. 
 For relief from duty on wines. 
 
 (1628, about.) Petition to the King. "The French Company trading 
 
 in Wines." 
 
 To be freed from bonds they had been compelled to give for a new 
 
 impost of 20*. 
 
 *#.# 
 
 The petitioners have sustained great and lamentable losses this year 
 by shipwreck, pirates, &c, and sundry impositions have been levied on 
 their wines and goods in France by Monsieur Soubize, their wines also 
 stayed by the King and spoiled by his soldiers, together with extraordinary 
 
 loss by bad debtors at Rochelle and here at home. 
 
 # # # # * 
 
 Signed by 37 persons. 
 
 1628-9, January 7. Paris. Isaac Dorislaus to Sir J. Coke (in Latin). 
 
 Inasmuch as men of prudence consider me to have been wrong in 
 that whidi I thought had been duly provided for me, I will not burden 
 my cause with any defence lest an error which may be remedied by 
 regret should become irremediable by obstinacy. The Sorbonne of 
 Paris, which had hitherto devoted its tongue and pen no less studiously 
 than other citizens their life and swords to the Royal Power, now begins 
 to fail in that generous impulse and to worship the majesty of the 
 Roman Vaecovis too fondly and in a degree formidable to their succes- 
 sors. Returning to my own affairs maintenance for my family and a
 
 378 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. favourable prospect of fortuno for myself, I beg of you as a suppliant 
 a foreigner a poor man, and if you will permit it, an unfeigned respecter 
 of your honour. 
 
 1628-9, January 9. Aboard the Adventure in the Downs. Captain 
 John Mennes to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Reports arrival from Luxstat (Grluckstadt in the Elbe). Sir Charles 
 Morgan with his Majesty's forces were there sent a messenger to 
 Sir Robert Anstruther and had a sudden despatch from him. I took 
 a bark laden with tallow tar and hides for Calais, and carried her into 
 the Elbe. The town of Hamburg alleged that made her free, but I 
 would not begin a precedent of so dangerous a consequence. I hope 
 she will not be long from me for I manned her with 16 able men. There 
 are 14 sail of Hamburgers laden for Spain which are very rich, will put 
 through our Channel. 
 
 1628-9, January 9. Navy paper. Endorsed " A List of His Majesty's 
 ships, pinnaces, ketches, pinks, and prize ships " (in writing of Sir J. 
 Coke) " delivered by Mr. Fleming." 
 
 (The upper fold with ships of Class 1 missing.) 
 
 1628-9, January 10 : stilo vecchio. Letter in cipher with decipher- 
 ment interlined. 
 
 "A Monsieur Monsieur Damville a Liege in the first Cover. 
 
 A Monsieur Monsieur Thomas Hugoll Merchant a Anvers in the 
 second. 
 
 This Christmas the Venetian Ambassador brought to our king a very 
 long discourse written to him from the Venetian Ambassador at Paris 
 the substance of this letter was an expression of the King of Spain's 
 weakness and wants in Spain and all other his dominions. The Princes 
 of Italy have conceived jealousy of the House of Austria. The Fiench 
 King is providing three armies each of 15,000 men one to go for Italy 
 another to fall upon the part of the Archduchess' next to France 
 the third to keep all quiet among his own people. The King seems 
 to believe much in this relation. The King is very cold in the business 
 of the treaty w r ith Spain insomuch that Master Porter doth much repent 
 his journey into Spain. It is still hoped that the Queen is with child, 
 whereat the king is much joyed and it hath assuaged his fury against 
 the French. The French King will have performance of the articles 
 agreed upon at the marriage. The great favour the King showeth to 
 his Lord Treasurer is much envied by the Puritan party who take him 
 for a great enemy to their projects. 
 
 1628-9, January 10. La Touche (a prisoner). Statement in French 
 of Bremond's intention avowed by him to give information of facility 
 of surprising Portsmouth. 
 
 Endorsed " This was shown to Monsieur de la Touche at the time 
 of his examination before us Ri : Shelton, Heneage Finch," and further 
 indorsed by Sir J. Coke " La Touche's discovery of Breinond." 
 
 1628-9, January 12. Navy paper. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Pro- 
 position for a fleet of 5 squadrons." 
 
 To maintain His Majesty's sovereignty at the seas, to guard his 
 own coasts, secure the trades of his subjects, support his allies, infest 
 his enemies by keeping them in alarm in all parts and hindering their 
 preparations and gathering to head, to advantage all his treaties and 
 haply to recover a good part of the charge, it will be necessary to 
 make ready a convenient fleet which may consist of five squadrons to 
 be united in a body or separated as occasion shall require but designed 
 generally to the services here expressed.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 379 
 
 First, To the North seas to guard the fishings of Iceland and Green- CoKE Mgs 
 land, the coasts of Scotland, the passage by the North, to secure the 
 
 trades of Russia and the Sound and to aid the Kings of Denmark and 
 Sweden, 8 sail, 565 men, charge - 10,752 2 C 
 
 Second, For the East sea to guard the English Coast from Scotland 
 to the North Foreland to convoy the cloth ships from Delft and 
 Hamburg and the Coal Fleets of Newcastle, to defend the herring 
 fishing and free the seas from Flemish and French pirates * * 
 8 sail, 730 men, charge - 15,794 8 4 
 
 Third, For the Sleeve or Narrow Seas, to guard from the North 
 Foreland westward to the Land's End, to relieve the Inlands of Jersey 
 and Guernsey and to scour the French coast * * 8 sail, 690 men, 
 charge- ...... 15,111 10 
 
 Fourth, For the Irish Coast especially to guard the west and northern 
 parts * * 2 ships, 130 men - 3,692 14 2 
 
 Fifth and chief squadron, To guard the entrance of the Sleeve and 
 of St. George's Channel to intercept all provisions for Spain or France 
 to scour along all their coasts and hinder them from making heiftl and 
 withal to watch the returns of both their Indian fleets. 
 
 9 ships with a ketch to wait upon them, 1240 men - 21,087 15 2 
 * * * * Total charge - 66,438 19 10 
 
 [These several sums do not exactly make this total.] 
 
 16289, January 13. " Mr. Graham his petition." The anchorage 
 of ships in the Thames is a perquisite of the Lord High Admiral. 
 Certified with the signatures of R. Weston : Lindsey : E. Dorset : 
 Dorchester : J. Coke. 
 
 1628-9, January 16. Aboard the Adventure in the Downs. 
 Captain John Mennes to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Divers French vessels expected from Flushing and Middleburg 
 bound for Calais and Dieppe. Asks leave to ply to and ajjain between 
 this and Calais Road, it will advance His Majesty's service. 
 
 1628-9, January 25. Endorsed " Bremond." 
 
 Je vous supplie de vous conserver pour le contentement du Prince 
 de Palme (Parma ?) trois semaines apres votre depart la hevre con- 
 tinue me pris et dura vingt jours. L'on croyait que je devais mourir 
 inais Dieu ra'a voulu laissee avec la fievre quarte. 
 
 A paper endorsed " La Tousche his information against Bremond " 
 (in English). States that he was induced by Bremont to come from 
 St. Malo to Portsmouth, both being made prisoners Bremond said he 
 would be revenged by showing to the King of Spain or the Archdukes 
 an easy way to surprise Portsmouth. 
 
 1628-9, January 30. Heswell near Durham. Sir Henry Anderson 
 to bir J. Coke. 
 
 1 acknowledge the extraordinary good turn to get me freed from 
 the Sheriffwick of Northumberland. I suppose a good lawful and 
 honest means to raise money is the most acceptable service that can 
 be performed in these times. I may be employed in the Bishoprick of 
 Durham or north part of Yorkshire or the town of Newcastle these being 
 the places where my means and abode is. 
 
 1628-9, February 7. "Privy Seal" by the King, signed da. Milles 
 addressed to Our trusty and right well beloved Councillor Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, for a loan of 50/. to be repaid in one year, (3 Car. 1). 
 
 1628-9, February 18. Dublin. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland, 
 Lord Deputy of Ireland, to Sir J. Coke.
 
 380 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. Asks that His Majesty may be procured to sign a letter whereby 
 
 the Patentees of the Office of Examinators for the Plaintiff in the Court 
 of Chancery may examine witness according to the tenor of the letter 
 obtained by Mr. Barker. 
 
 1628-9, F ^ffg 24 ' Embden, C. B. de D. (No address;. 
 
 Comme l'Allemagne a etc autrefois la refuge des persecutes lorsque 
 la France et l'Angleterre brulaient et massacraient les fideles ainsi 
 maintenant notre Patrie cherche en votre pays le meme support que 
 du temps de la Reine Marie elle donnait a vos refugies. II y a ici un 
 des principaux seigneurs dAutriche qui a ete desormais en exil pres de 
 7 ou 8 annees. Dieu lui a donne forces enfans. Le fils aine est au ser- 
 vice de Monsieur le Prince d'Orange. Des deux autres Pun s'est mis aux 
 lettres, l'autre n'etant porte aux lettres le pere sera bien aise de le don- 
 ner page a quelque Seigneur de la Religion. Le sire susdit leur pere 
 s'appelle le Baron d'Ungnad auquel pour la profession de la verite est 
 pour avoir adhere a, ceux que tachaient de mettre la patrie et l'eglise 
 en liberte tous ses biens en Autriche ct Carinthie ont ete otes et lui con- 
 traint de vivre en un long et miserable exil. II me serable avoir oui 
 dire que le College d'Eton est sous Pinspection de Monsieur le chevalier 
 Wotton duquel je suis ancien serviteur. Vous priant savoir si ou au 
 College susdit ou en quelque autre on pourrait trouver une place pour 
 un tel jeune homme et si chez quelque seigneur craignant Dieu le plus 
 jeune aussi pourrait trouver service. Je vous ai recommande la solli- 
 citation de la recompense jadis promise a. moi comme a, un des serviteurs 
 du Roi de Boheme qui ai perdu toutes mes terres et biens que javais 
 au Palatinat. Les armees de PEmpereur sous les generaux Wallenstein 
 et Tilly qui comme Xerxes tachent de mettre les mers et les ondes 
 sous leur puissance grossissenl tous les jours. Si le bruit est vrai que 
 Suede et Danemark avec les Anseatiques s'unissent pour ne laisser la 
 Weser en proie et si di ce cote ci on se pent a maintenir 
 
 PEms tout ne subirait encore si tot le joug, principalement si les diffe- 
 rends entre vous et les Francois apaises on se pourrait de votre cote 
 promettre quelque assistance. L'assemblee Electorale de Mulhouse n'a 
 point encore prodnit la paix. 
 
 1G28-9, our last of February. Copy of a letter (not signed) a Monsieur 
 Monsieur Damville a Liege. 
 
 I am not a little troubled to hear by yours of the 20th that our 
 letters were not then come to your hands. I beseech you think how 
 it may be amended, otherwise we shall find great inconvenience thereby. 
 The King and the Parliament are yet upon very ill terms X hitherto 
 the King hath the patience to suffer them to traduce their own Clergy 
 and to fall upon his officers of the Customs, his Lords of the Council, his 
 judges and his counsel at law, in so high a kind as if the Lower House 
 of Parliament were supreme head and governor of the Church, King 
 and people. They are eye witnesses that the officers of the soldiers 
 that were at Re and Rochelle are here ready to pull out the Lord 
 Treasurer's throat for their pay. There is no money in the Exchequer 
 nor like to come in but one poor subsidy the most part whereof will be 
 due to the countries from whence it is to come, for billeting of soldiers 
 yet do they not think of giving the King his tonnage and poundage or 
 to give him any other help, nor do they shoAV any desire of peace 
 with France or Spain. Kalander (Calandrini ?) trotteth up and down 
 between Paris and London, but the French king yet seemeth not to 
 care whether he have a peace, and Foster though he give great hopes
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 381 
 
 hath done nothing but he saith it -will never be done by Kalander. For Coke M88. 
 the proceeding of the peace with Spain, the letters from Scalia out 
 of Spain giving such assurance of the good success of the Treaty- 
 together with the most noble indulgent and sweet carriage of the Arch- 
 duchess, hath gained much upon the King's disposition Here are 
 new Commissioners come out of Holland who are come with a mind to 
 do mischief ; they talk of lending the King money. 
 
 1628-9, February. Sir Humphrey May, Chancellor of the Duchy 
 of Lancaster, M.P. for Leicester, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Ts ill in bed, sends Bill for Tonnage and Poundage to be offered to 
 the House. 
 
 1628-9, March 3. Sand Pitts. Mrs. Elioner Powell to George 
 Dickson, Curate of Preston. 
 
 He should apply to Sir J. Coke, who was the means of his coming 
 into that country, and who might place in some better means of main- 
 tenance or at least write to Mr. Powell in his behalf. 
 
 1628-9, March 5. Portsmouth. Peter White to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 As to the Peter carrying ordnance and munitions to Plymouth. 
 The men in the Ordinary are like to mutiny. I have much trouble to 
 keep them quiet till the Spaniards be gone past : they swear they will 
 leave all the ships, they have had nothing but bread and water all this 
 month. 
 
 1628-9, March 8. Plymouth. Peter White to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The Peter that was to carry the ordnance to Plymouth took the 
 warrant you sent to Guernsey unto Sir Henry Palmer. 
 
 The Spaniards set sail out of Stokes Bay carrying the English pilots 
 away perforce after having got them aboard by a wile. If money 
 cometh not down to the deputy victualler by the end of this month he 
 will deliver no more. 
 
 1628-9, March 9. Preston. George Dickson to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Asks a few lines to Mr. Powell that he may succeed the old Vicar of 
 Preston to whom he has been a continual assistant for twenty years, 
 having been drawn from Ledbury by the importunity of Mrs. Powell 
 and one of her daughters to pay a hard rent to the Vicar. 
 
 1628-9, March 17. On board the Assurance. Sir Henry Palmer to 
 Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Upon presumption that we shall find some ships windbound in 
 Coquette Roads I am desirous to make tho adventure thither with this 
 short proportion of victual than neglect any service of hope. The 
 Charles proveth so ill my Lord Denbigh hath thought good to send 
 her back. The Assurance proves in all conditions much better than 
 my expectation. I beseech you there may be a certainty of finding 
 victual ready at Portsmouth. 
 
 1628-9, March 18. Certificate signed by M. Hyde and Thomas 
 Richardson (Judges) to the right hon bl the Lords Committees appointed 
 by his Majesty in the matter between the Company of Stationers of the 
 City of London and the University of Cambridge on the behalf of their 
 printers. Reciting an order of the High Court of Starchamber of the 
 6lh of February last requiring those Judges to consider of several 
 Charters of the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford and of the Act of 
 Parliament of 13 Eliz. and of the decree of the Court of Starchamber 
 and also of the several charters and patents of the Company of Stationers 
 and of his Majesty's printers and such other evidences as they should 
 produce as pertinent to the matter wherein the said Company of Sta- 
 tioners and his Majesty's printers are plaintiffs in the said Court of
 
 382 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. Starchamber against Thomas Buck and John Buck, printers to the 
 said University of Cambridge defendants. We have not only our- 
 selves duly considered thereof but we have likewise advised of the same 
 with the Lord Chief Baron of the Exchequer and five more of our 
 brethren and we are all of opinion that those stationers and printers of 
 books dwelling in the University of Cambridge which are or shall be 
 chosen and appointed by the Chancellor Masters and Scholars of the 
 University by their writing under the seal of the Chancellor of the said 
 University may by law there print all manner of books approved or 
 hereafter to be approved by the Chancellor or Vice-Chancellor and three 
 Doctors of the said University of Cambridge and as well those books as 
 other books wheresoever within the kingdom or without imprinted by 
 the Chancellor or his Vice Chancellor and three Doctors there approved 
 or to be approved as well in the said University as elsewhere within the 
 kingdom wheresoever it please them may freely sell and utter, any of the 
 said patents of sole printing or any other matters above said notwith- 
 standing. And touching the said clause in the said order of reference 
 whereby we are required to consider also of the charter of the University 
 of Oxford if they would attend with the same we were not attended 
 with the charter of that University of Oxford neither with any members 
 of that body and therefore have not intermeddled with any things con- 
 cerning the same. 
 
 1628-9, March 18. Dublin Castle. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland, 
 Lord Deputy, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State 
 to his Majesty and one of the Lords of the most honourable Privy 
 Council. 
 
 My servant tells me you will not give him leave to tender 
 
 you in my name so small an acknowledgment as I am now 
 
 ashamed to own though the circumstance of the time and the universal 
 
 custom of the world will warrant for the favour to be accepted. 
 
 I will patiently and hopefully attend a more propitious opportunity. 
 The certificate ought to be allowed no credit in anything that 
 toucheth upon me or mine, so great is their malice which manifestly 
 appears now iu Sir Arthur Savage, who hath had his hand in continuing 
 and countenancing that abominable practice against me in the presenta- 
 tion of that petition of the sons of one Philip Busslyn, lately preferred 
 into the parliament house, wherein I am confident to prove the Lord 
 Chancellor here and Sir Francis Annesley no less guilty than himself. 
 I pi'ay God the example of it hath been no occasion to beget any 
 slightings of his royal person and his royal authority there. 
 
 1628-9, March 21. Memorial touching the King and Queen's attend- 
 ance. The Lords Committees being assembled by his Majesty's com- 
 mandment do humbly represent to his Majesty 
 
 1. That the best way to restore the Court to the ancient splendour is 
 to resume the ancient forms both within doors and abroad. 
 
 2. These forms within doors consisted principally iu distinguishing 
 of rooms and persons ; places of chief respect being frequented with 
 persons of honour and rank, and others with such as were of less quality, 
 every distance and degree being then well known and strictly observed. 
 
 4. The tables were always kept which drew recourse and attendance 
 upon the Court. 
 
 Observations for abroad. 
 
 1. It hath been the manner of former princes when they went abroad 
 either to appear princely with a train accordingly, or going in private 
 not to be so much as known.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 383 
 
 2. At times of recreation and going abroad they were always attended Coke mss. 
 by the whole Court, when such as they would call unto them might 
 approach, and others remaining more remote, business might by this 
 
 means to be dispatched and public dignity preserved. The park was 
 always kept very strictly. 
 
 3. Both within doors and abroad, according to occasions, warning was 
 given to prime persons to attend the Princes ; who receiving good coun- 
 tenance of them were thereby encouraged to give attendance, which they 
 always did with cheerfulness and alacrity. 
 
 Touching the present occasion of the Queen's lying in. 
 
 This is either to be done with state and dignity or privately. For 
 the first this place [Greenwich] is thought the best. For the latter, any 
 other of his Majesty's houses fitter; but in that case the wholesomeness 
 of the air is most considerable, for which Greenwich at the time of the 
 Queen's lying in is thought most unfit. 
 
 1628-9, March 23. George Carew, Earl of Totnes, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 His Majesty desiring to be satisfied you may certify him that the 
 gift of the place of porter in the Mynorits (Minories) belongs to me as 
 Master of His Majesty's Ordnance. He is to be His Majesty's feed 
 Porter by letters patent for the more safety of the King's storehouses of 
 munitions placed in the Mynorits. In the time of King James I gave 
 the reversion twice without question by any. I am unwilling to give 
 a wound to my own right to the prejudice of my successors. 
 
 1628-9, March 24. Philippe Burlamachi a Monsieur Monsieur 
 Coke, Chevalier Principal Secretaire de Sa Majeste. 
 
 Succes du Roi de France au passage des Alpes ou il a force le Due de 
 Savoye de lui quitter le passage et s'accorder avec lui. De la Haye 
 ils avissent que l'assemblee de Lubeck s'en allait sans accord que les 
 inecontentements que le Due de Saxe recevait pourraient bien le faire 
 resoudre a, se declarer contre l'Empereur lequel est menace du Turc. 
 Je depecherai dans un jour ou deux pour Gluckstad. Si v. s. tres 
 illustre a occasion d'ecrire a Monsieur Morgan je la supplie d' avoir 
 memoire que l'affaire du poivre qui a ete recommande par le Docteur 
 tie Hambourck demeure en suspens selon l'ordre car autrement tout sera 
 perdu. 
 
 1628-9, March. A paper endorsed "The Lieutenant of the Tower's 
 information of such as had visited the prisoners in the Tower from 
 their first imprisonment to the 19th of March 1G28." 
 
 Lord Hollis, Earl of Lincoln, Lord Say's son, Mr. Hatcher. The Lord 
 Hollis brought all these and desired to see his brother one time but did 
 not. Another time the Lord Hollis brought the Lord Stanhope post- 
 master, the Lady Berkely, Viscount Cholmondeley's lady and a daughter 
 of the Lord Vere's they pressed me earnestly but to see him and they 
 being all down in the court Mr. Hollis did come to his window, and they 
 did see him and had no conference at all with him, only the ladies 
 break a jest or two upon him not worth the repeating. There was one 
 Green, a Parliament man, that did see Mr. Hollis being going to his 
 lady's dwelling in Dorchester or Weymouth, but had no conference with 
 him. The Lord Say's son, Mr. Hatcher, I think Sir William Ermyn, 
 and one or two more whose names I could not learn, went unmy son 
 window of Vallentine, aud were about to speak to him, which my son 
 perceiving wished them forbear. There whs one Killatow, that came 
 to Mr. Selden's window, but had no speech with him. One Mr. 
 Vaughan brought a dictionary to his keeper, another scholar brought
 
 384 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. two books to his keeper, one Hebrew, the other Greek, which are not 
 delivered him. Divers whose names I know not have done adoralion to 
 
 Mr. Selden's window, but could not speak to him. The Lord Rich with 
 four or five others whose names I know not, did come, being forbidden 
 to come to Sir John Eliot's window he opened his window and was 
 beginning to speak, but his keeper interrupted them. There is one 
 Nicol that sent a letter to Corrington, but did not speak to him. 
 
 1628-9, . Stade. Sir Sheffield Clapham to M. Calandrini. (Copy.) 
 If we had money to content the soldiers we could hold this town yet 
 six months, and before then I hope we shall be relieved. 
 
 1628-9. Ph. Burlamachi to Sir J. Coke (in French). 
 
 Inclosing Sir Sheffield Clapharu's letter. From Nuremberg it is 
 written that the Emperor had declared openly to certain gentlemen of 
 Denmark that that kindgom belongs to the House of Austria by reason 
 of a cession made by King Christian to the Emperor Charles V. 
 
 1629, April 1. Drury Lane. Bartholomew Haggett to Sir John 
 Coke, one of His Majesty's Secretaries of State, in Bow Lane, 
 London. 
 
 1 shall be able to open this cipher which His Majesty delivered you 
 to-morrow. In the meantime if your honour will move His Majesty for 
 the settling of my pension I beseech you make your warrant beforehand 
 with a blank space for the sum. 
 
 1629, April 2. Charterhouse. George Mountaigne, Archbishop of 
 York to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Recommending the bearer who hath a suit to the King which 
 seemeth just : he is particularly known to me as a very honest and 
 religious man. 
 
 1629, April 11. . Sir Sakvile Crow to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Has stopped in making the snrvey of cordage, and came with the 
 merchants to have the matter heard by the Lord Treasurer, but his 
 occasions denied audience. Some of the cordage is unserviceable, but 
 the merchants say they must put off the bad as well as the good to make 
 the 300 tons, for no other is to be had. 
 
 1629, April 13. Maw. Thomas Lewis to Thomas Gilbert of 
 Lockoe. 
 
 Your friend shall hear of me at the sign of the Three Black Birds in 
 Gray's Inn Lane, where I shall be ready and most willing to give the 
 most satisfaction I can. A view of the parties and a liking one of the 
 other will be the greatest pleasure to friends on both sides. 
 
 1629, April 14. Lockoe. Thomas Gilbert (cousin), to Sir J. Coke, 
 at his house on Garlick's Hill. 
 
 I have not made known to Mr. Lews your name. I have returned 
 answer to him of his letter that my friend may send to treat witn him to 
 his lodging at the White Hart in Holborn. I could wish all perfection 
 in her and otherwise as rich as might equal that perfection, and if she 
 were yet I hold her not worthy of so good a match as is now pro- 
 pounded for her. If you please not to entertain it I humbly crave your 
 answer that I may certify my friend (Mr. Lewis). 
 
 1628, April 17. Tirley. John Powell (father-iu-law) to Sir J. 
 Coke. 
 
 Mr. Dixon shall have cause to acknowledge your furtherance for his 
 continuance where you first placed him. Wishes a lease of cord wood 
 to be taken in the Forest of Dean, as with his daughter James's woods
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 385 
 
 they might make a profit by casting of sow iron. Desires to take ad- 
 vantage of an outlawry of a minister beneficed in Ireland, and asks a 
 letter to the bishop of Downpatrick to give assistance in the business. 
 Craves pardon for not paying the 20/. Mr. Swayne had. I have had 
 somewhat extraordinary occasions since I left my place at the Council. 
 
 1629, April 21. Ludlow. Edward Waters to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Asks support of a petition to His Majesty for redress of some wrongs 
 which Sir Nicholas Overbury, Sir Marmaduke Lloyd, and myself do 
 conceive to be done to us and to His Majesty's service in the business of 
 the Court of the Marches here. 
 
 1G29, April 29. Lockoe. Thomas Gilbert (cousin) to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Inclosing the letter of Thomas Lewis. He doth not yet know by 
 name for whom I have made this motion. I leave it to your grave 
 wsdom. 
 
 1029, April 30. Portsmouth. Edward Boat to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Describes the state of preparation of the ships of the Fleet. Want of 
 victuals and money, has impoverished himself to pay men and for 
 stores. 
 
 1629, April 30. Warrant to Sir William Uvedale, Knight, Treasurer 
 of His Majesty's Chamber, to pay 20 marks to two clerks of Sir William 
 Becher, Knight, one of the Clerks of the Council in Ordinary. 
 
 Signed by Conway (President of the Council), Lindsey, Pembroke, 
 Dorchester, C. Wilmot, Hum : May, Fra : Cottington, Will: Uvedale. 
 
 1629, April . Portsmouth. Edward Boat to Sir J. Coke, at his 
 house on Garlick Hill. Rumour of abuses at Guernsey in praising of 
 prize goods taken by the ships lately employed on the coast of France. 
 Lord Dauers has sold goods to the Captain of the Third Whelp, 
 which he has brought home in his ship. The pitch and tar I have 
 taken up from him for the King's service. If it be questionable it may 
 be prevented. The Great Seahorse, riding at the Spithead, is the 
 best pink for service. My kinsman Mr. Bright in the last journey to 
 Guernsey took some prizes. The best anchor and cable were his right, 
 but Sir II. Palmer hath given them to his own ship's master. 
 
 1629, May 15. Petition. Indorsed "His Majesty's reference upon 
 the petition of Sir Nicholas Overbury, &c." 
 
 " Sir N. O. ; Sir Marmaduke Lloyd and Edward , three of Your 
 Majesty's Counsel in Ordinary in your Highness' Court for the Princi- 
 pality and Marches of Wales." 
 
 * * * * # 
 
 As to taking fees for affidavits, &c. Reference signed John Coke. 
 
 1629, May 15. Phoenix Howard to William Singleton a Lancashire 
 man at Crosby Ravensworth in Wesmoreland. 
 
 Jesus 4" Maria. Worthy Sir, matters are come to light contrary to 
 my expectation, nevertheless I will endure what torments can be in- 
 flicted upon me before 1 will make known the party that set me about 
 the business, nay 1 will die the death before I will reveal the same and 
 so with my due remembrance I rest your ever assured friend to com- 
 mand. 
 
 If I chance to be close prisoner wish my Lord to procure me the 
 liberty of the prison. If I be not I can write. 
 
 14th June, 1629. This letter Mr. Witherington confesseth but re- 
 fuseth to make answer to the particulars thereof saying he will make 
 
 U 24963. B b
 
 386 HISTORICAL MANU3CRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS known the same to no man but the King and Sir John Coke and denieth 
 his writing of any letters to any great towns. 
 
 This answer was taken before Mr. Bailiffs of Derby and myself. 
 
 Fra : Coke. 
 
 1629, May 22. Sir John Coke's house on Garlick Hithe. Hum : 
 Fulwoode to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal 
 Secretaries of State, at his house in Tottenham. 
 
 1 did yesternight receive 115 in part of your Honour's rents from 
 Baggrave. My Lord Keeper sent Mr. Willis to my Lord Treasurer 
 who came from Greenwich, he for answer said that the King would 
 hunt this way and dine at Whitehall but make no stay. If your honour 
 please I will bring such moneys as I do receive with me to Tottenham 
 tomorrow or leave them with Mr. Elwes. If you please to write to Mr. 
 Whalley about the buying of any coach horses, I hear that Rowall fair 
 is about 14 days hence within 10 or 12 miles of Mr. Whalley. 
 
 1629, May 29. Dublin. Thomas Cave to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Is Comptroller of the Customs of Dublin with fee of 201. per annum, 
 is a poor gentleman born in the house at Baggrave in Leicestershire 
 of that ancient family the Caves, the which house and estate by the 
 providence of God is justly come into your hands. Asks to be preserved 
 in his fee. 
 
 1629, June 1. Filippe Burlamachi to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 (In French.) The courier brings no news but that the camps are 
 in view of each other. The forces of the Emperor were arrived in the 
 environs of Cologne and notwithstanding in Antwerp it is even betting 
 that the Dutch will carry it in this siege. Walstein (Wallenstein) is 
 around Nuremburg and requires 25,000 florins a month : and so, soon 
 they will consume both the cities and the Princes. 
 
 1629, June 5. Letter in cipher with decipherment between the 
 lines. Indorsed " Copy. Upon the out covert Au Sieur Sieur Jacques 
 Ilan marchand en Anvers. Upon the inner covert, A Monsieur Monsieur 
 Damville a Liege." 
 
 I must confess I am at this time put to extreme straits for 
 money which was not so scarce in Court this hundred years for in 
 truth the King and all his followers are in great necessity therefore I 
 must beseech you to use all the speed you can to help me. Here 
 came a gentleman sent by Queen Mother of France to see our Queen 
 after she had miscarried. This gentleman talked very highly of his 
 master's exploits in Italy where he assured us he would find the King 
 of Spain so much to do as he should not be able to divert the siege of 
 Bolduke (Bois le due ?). Our French party press hard that Ambas- 
 sadors may be speedily sent to settle our peace with France which all 
 our Scottish courtiers and very many English prefer before peace with 
 Spain and among them none playeth the juggler better than doth your 
 faithful servant the Earl of Carlisle who doth discover all he thinks for 
 Spain's disadvantage to his friends in France assuring chem that the 
 Lords over here is all Spanish insomuch as in truth both the Queen 
 here and the French in France are somewhat jealous of him. I doubt 
 not but Rubens will let you know that no man seems more glad of his 
 coming than Carlisle doth. Within a few days Sir Thomas Edmonds 
 sets forward Ambassador into France ; our great Earl when he con- 
 sidered the charge of the journey was put into a fever. Upon our 
 Whit Sunday Sir Harry Vane and young Weston returned home 
 from the Hague having left the King's sister and her husband well
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 387 
 
 prepared to a peace with Spain but the Hollanders are so high in the 
 instep as they will scarce give credit to any speech tending to a peace 
 between Spain and us. Sir Thomas Roe is going Ambassador to the 
 King. If the King of Denmark fall upon our English and Scottish 
 shipping that by the Elbe shall trade into the north east parts for 
 satisfaction of the money we borrowed of them, our merchants 
 must find some other way for their trade which will be long in doing 
 except a peace may be made with the house of Austria or at least with 
 Spain. Upon Tuesday in our Whitsun week Rubens the Painter came 
 to London and was lodged at his familiar friends house called Jarbier 
 (Gerbier) a man well known among you. We understand he is quali- 
 fied a Secretary du Conseil prive but what that is we do not yet well 
 understand. At Greenwich Rubens was brought to the King's presence 
 who used him graciously ; he willed Rubens that he should acquaint 
 the Lord Treasurer with that he had said to His Majesty. After he 
 came from the King Carlisle entertained him with grsat affection and 
 invited him to dine with him. Rubens addressed himself that afternoon 
 to the Lord Treasurer with the same discourse which the King had in 
 the morning and delivered his Lordship a very kind letter from Olivares 
 from whom also he brought another letter to the Chancellor of the 
 Exchequer Sir Francis Cottington. The King consulted long with 
 the Lord Treasurer and the Lord Steward Pembroke but nothing was 
 then resolved on in particular but that Cottington should be called into 
 the business. On Friday Secretary Carleton feasted Monsieur Rubens. 
 On the next day he dined with the Lord Treasurer. Upon Sunday at 
 Court it was jresolved that Monsieur Rubens should meet the Treasurer 
 and Cottington and Pembroke at the Lord Treasurer's house at Lon- 
 don. He came and spent with them more than an hour. I assure 
 you there is no exception taken to his person as you may guess from 
 his entertainment. You see by the few that negotiate the business 
 how few friends you have in our Court and one of those named is not 
 to be relied upon : there is no more welhvishers but Dorset and Arundel 
 who is grown so forward and discontented he cares not to attend any 
 business. The only man you may hope of is Cottington to whom Ruben3 
 may address himself being a wise and an honest and in very good 
 esteem with our King. 
 
 1629, June 8. Tirley. John Powell to Sir J. Coke. 
 Further as to having some of the stools of the trees in the Forest of 
 Dean, near the furnace he has begun to build, and the rates he would 
 pay for cord wood and log wood. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir J. Coke : " Earl of Huntiugton. As to levies on 
 Hundreds for trained men. They come to the rate of 24 shillings for 
 every trained. The Lieutenant alone layeth these levies by his own 
 warrant without the Justices. At the last levy the Lieutenant laid 1,500 
 upon the country which was double as much as any subsidy." 
 
 1620, June 12. Calais. Jean Berrentsen to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 (In French.) Being detained by a fever at Calais sends the inclosed 
 to be addressed to His Majesty. The answer to be addressed to Lucas 
 Gerart a Calais. 
 
 1629, June 14. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland (52). 
 
 Extract of a letter dated 4 June 1629, directed to the Lord Deputy 
 of Ireland. John Cantwell, a supposed abbot, is restrained in London, 
 having returned from beyond the seas, whither he went accompanied 
 by a young monk of the Butlers, favoured with not being committed to 
 the Tower by the Earl of Ormond's intervention. 
 
 b b 2
 
 388 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1629, June 16. Dublin Castle. Henry Gary, Viscount Falkland (52), 
 
 Lord Deputy of Ireland, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Speaks of neglect of his former letters. By his letter of 21st October 
 1628 he gave information of the passage through England to foreign 
 parts of men guided by no good affections to the State. They are now- 
 according to the inclosed (Extract above) in restraint in England. 
 Suggests interrogations be ministered unto them. 
 
 1629, June 12. Doctors Commons. Sir Henry Marten, Judge of 
 Arches Court to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Informing Sir J. Coke that Thomas Browne, a legatary in the wiii of 
 the Lord Brooke, deceased, proceeds against him and the rest of the 
 Executors of the Will in the Arches Court for substraction of legacy. 
 The matter will be heard in the Church of St. Mary Bowe, London. 
 
 (1629), June 26. London. Decipherment. Indorsed " Copy, without, 
 ausieur Jacques Elan Marchand a Anvers ; within, a Monsieur Monsieur 
 Damville a Liege." 
 
 My nephew wrote you the flying news of the Town.. In mine you 
 had all our Court afforded ; this term hath been wholly spent about 
 trade and other domestical differences. We are now satisfied that the 
 King of Denmark hath made his peace with the Emperor, which hath 
 been the true cause that our merchants have shipped many white cloths 
 for Hamburg, yet do they not a little fear that the King of Denmark will 
 ere long demand both the debt due to him by our King and likewise the 
 money promised by him towards the maintenance of the war ; the 
 merchants fear it will be taken from them. Sir Harry Vane hath had 
 a hope to be employed to Brussels touching this treaty with Spain. 
 On Sunday it was resolved that Sir Francis Cottington shall go for 
 Spain ; you must chiefly confide in him as the man most really 
 and resolutely determined to bring this negotiation to a good end. 
 This afternoon came the French Ambassador Monsieur de Chasteauneuf, 
 accompanied with 14 coaches, in which there were a number of ragged 
 and tattered Frenchmen. He hath great hope of our Queen, but as yet 
 she troubles her head very little with matters of state, nor hath she any 
 power with the King to hurt in that kind. You shall do well to let 
 us know sometimes the true state of Boisleduc and your armies there 
 that we may encounter with the huge lies that come from Holland, 
 where we hear they have not so good an opinion of our King's sister as 
 they have had, which, together with their insolent carriage towards the 
 English upon all occasions, hath altered our desires of their prosperity 
 except among the soldiers and the most malicious puritans. 
 
 1629, June 30. Calais. Jean Berrentsen to Sir J. Coke. (In 
 French.) 
 
 Has packets for the King of consequence, not to be trusted to couriers. 
 Asks how the correspondence is to be carried on in future without 
 danger, and for some recompense. 
 
 1629, July 5. Thomas, Lord Keeper Coventry, and William Comp- 
 ton, Earl of Northampton. 
 
 Report on a reference by His Majesty, six Judges concurring, that 
 Letters Patent granted to Robert Thorne are void in law, the taking 
 and ministering of the oaths being properly incident to the Judges of 
 the Court [of the Marches of Wales], who should have the fees to be 
 distributed by way of dividend among them. 
 
 1629, July 19. The copy of an estimate made by Mr. Boat of the 
 charge for the ordinary repair of his Majesty's ships, pinnaces, and
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 389 
 
 pinks (boats) at Portsmouth, and also for the repair of the graving place, 
 wharfs, and storehouses Sum 5361. Is. '2d. 
 
 1629, July 25. At " the Prince of Orange." Jean Barentssen to 
 Sir J. Coke. 
 
 (In French.) Asks an answer to his last letter whether the King will 
 not give him money to pursue his journey. Is unwilling to present him- 
 self to Sir J. Coke " before the town." Begs to hear from him this 
 evening or to-morrow, for he has come expressly for this affair. 
 
 1629, August 2. Henry Boone and John Ireland, of London, 
 chirurgeons, examined before the Right Honourable Sir Richard Deane, 
 knight, Lord Mayor of the City of London, saith that on Friday night 
 was three weeks about 8 at night they landed at Temple Stairs, near 
 Fleet Street, intending to go to a patient in Sergeant's Inn, in Chancery 
 Lane, and upon their said landing they heard one who seemed to be to 
 them one of the gentlemen of the Temple call out to the watermen upon 
 the Thames, saying in these words, All you watermen belonging to 
 the Temple come up ashore, or else you shall never hereafter ply any 
 fare; there, and that thereupon the said watermen who then were near 
 the shore did of purpose pull off from the land. And these examinants, 
 being landed, came up to the landing gate, and there met with some 
 who told them there was no passage, but there these examinants espied a 
 gentleman whose name they knew not, having a brass pistol in his hand, 
 and two with swords drawn, and thereupon they these examinants 
 took water and landed at Milford Stairs, and from thence went to their 
 patient ; and after the dressing of him going towards their dwelling in 
 London for their own better safety (the street being then much dis- 
 quieted) went into the house of one Mr. Hepp, a barber in Fleet Street, 
 where they continued until about 12 of the clock that night, in which time 
 they observed many stones to be thrown and swords drawn in Fleet 
 Street, but by whom they know not, and more they cannct say, saving 
 that as they passed through Fleet Street, they saw many young gentle- 
 men of the Temple holding swords in their hands flourishing of them, 
 saying the Lord Mayor was nothing. 
 
 [Endorsed by Sir J. Coke Trained bands want not only bullets but 
 powder for training. The watermen called in by the Templars. Sir 
 Fred. Gorges, M. Pigott, Moodie, Meriot, Kelham, Wiseman, Capt. 
 Kay, Beale, Trigg, Stern, Sir John Culpepper, Senior.] 
 
 1629, August 2. Richard Porter of London, gent., examined before 
 the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor of the City of London touching 
 the riot committed in Fleet Street on Friday last was three weeks 
 sayeth That about 8 or 9 of the clock that night lie was at Chancery 
 Lane end to look upon what should happen at the said business when 
 he saw divers long swords drawn but by whom he knoweth not, neither 
 knows he any person there present whatsoever, and that he there stood 
 by the space of one whole hour or thereabouts and no more and then 
 departed in which time he saw no hurt done to any person whatsoever 
 and more he sayeth not. 
 
 Capt. coram me R. Deane, Mayor. 
 
 1629, August 2. Dublin. Sir George Shurley, Chief Justice in 
 Ireland, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Had grant of a wardship of the heir of Mr. Dowdall a lawyer the 
 fruit of which was sought to be frustrated by the Earl of Fingall his 
 fraudulent dealings. Asks assistance for the punishing of the male- 
 factors, as by his petition expressed.
 
 390 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 
 
 1629, August 5. Nicholas Beale, haberdasher, being examined 
 touching the tumult in Fleet Street saith he hath been examined before 
 Mr. Secretary Coke who took his oath thereon. Capt. coram me R. 
 Deane, Mayor. 
 
 1629, August 7. Oatlands. Dudley Carleton, Viscount Dorchester, 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 His Majesty likes very well the pains you have taken. Your coming 
 is expected on Sunday next. Touching the burial of the two executed 
 persons, here we had no news of it before your letter. 
 
 1629, August 8. Canbury. Richard Willis (Cousin) to Sir J. 
 Coke. 
 
 My Lord wrote to Lord Dorchester to shew his own readiness in any- 
 thing wherein his service may be useful in the business His Majesty's 
 mind is intentive upon. He desires your honour in your report to take 
 notice of his Lordship sending to you and the Lord Chief Justice. I 
 pray God to send your Honour a happy journey. 
 
 1629, August 9. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Copy of my letter to 
 the Lord Chief Justice of the King's Bench." 
 
 Yesterday being sent for by His Majesty to the Court at Oatlands I 
 gave account of our proceedings in the three businesses we examined at 
 Sergeants Inn. For the first both His Majesty and the Lords hold it 
 strange that it is found but a riot, considering the proclamations made 
 by His Majesty's Lieutenant and that after the proclamation resistance 
 was aho made swords drawn and used with bloodshed on both sides ; a 
 barricade raised for a fortification against the King's forces and capitu- 
 lations required to the vilifying of his justice : all which by other 
 laws and by the practice of other governments have ever been found 
 capital offences, at least in the chief authors. His Majesty therefore 
 commanded me to tell you that in this business his eye is not upon the 
 person or the punishment of any man for revenge. He will not there- 
 fore have this matter prosecuted in the Star Chamber to publish to all 
 the world that his government may not only be contemned but opposed 
 in this manner without further danger or penalty than a fine. But if 
 our laws admit no other proceeding against malefactors in this kind 
 His Majesty will have it prosecuted no farther, rather than make such a 
 precedent to encourage rebellion which beginneth by such actions. 
 Your Lordship shall do well to take this case into more serious con- 
 sideration. For the second offence in the pompous burial of the persons 
 which were executed, His Majesty holdeth it to be (as we conceived it) 
 an affront of justice in a very high nature, and if the Star Chamber cen- 
 sured a man (now of high rank) for asking but a question of a condemned 
 man at the place of execution, he doubteth not but that Court will be 
 fit for this business to which it being already referred by all our 
 directions he requireth the prosecution to be accordingly made with 
 effect by Mr. Attorney, Mr. Solicitor, and Mr. Recorder the next term. 
 In like manner His Majesty well approveth our proceedings in the 
 third cause of Lincoln's Inn and requireth a like careful prosecution by 
 them in that Court. 
 
 1629, August 17. Thomas Court near to Dublin. Henry Cary, 
 Viscount Falkland to Sir John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary of 
 State to His Majesty and one of the Lords of his most honourable 
 Privy Council. 
 
 These are the last letters I am likely to write out of this kingdom, 
 where my course is finished by decree : I hope with an intention to 
 bring me to a more happy and contentable condition of life than by
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 391 
 
 experience I find they can possibly enjoy who serve His Majesty faith- 
 fully separated from his sight. To yourself I hope I shall have no diffi- 
 culty of access nor want favourable reception at His Majesty's hands so 
 far forth as your friendly and powerful mediation may procure it for me, 
 Then I can make it perspicuous that though I have cast the care of 
 of myself on His Maiesty's gracious goodness I have been a very faith- 
 ful and vigilant minister. 
 
 1629, August 17. Westminster. William Boswell to Sir J. Coke 
 at Tottenham. 
 
 My Lord of Carlisle earnestly intreats that if Brook house be to stand 
 void after the French Ambassador's removal he may have it and he 
 will be sure to keep it free from Ambassadors hereafter. 
 
 1629, August 19. Sir Richard Harpur to Sir J. Coke at Tottenham. 
 
 I have restrained an aged popish priest and the man at whose house 
 he was apprehended. This I signify to you according to the duty of 
 my place. 
 
 1629, August -ff. A paper indorsed "Copy of a letter written by 
 Mr. Dudley Carleton, His Maiesty's Resident at the Hague now my 
 Lord Viscount Dorchester." 
 
 Right Honourable. On Monday night the 20th of this present in 
 haste I advertised your Lordship of the great and unexpected success 
 with which it had pleased God to bless this State by the surprisal of 
 Wesell. The project was framed by a young man called Wolf of the 
 garrison of Rees. The Count of Stirumb and Colonel Ghent was 
 employed in the execution. The foot were taken out of the garrisons 
 of Rees and Emerieh as also out of the towns on the Yssel, which 
 assembling at Skenken Sconce marched the 8th, and about midnight 
 arrived before Wesell, they put all the soldiers to the sword, took the 
 governor prisoner, and gave the burghers good quarter, who received 
 them with acclamations of joy for their deliverance from the tyranny 
 of the Spaniard?. Powder, corn, meal, ordnance and money and 
 exceeding much booty captured. Anticipated difficulties of Count H. 
 Vandenberg, commander of the Spaniards, may have to retire to 
 Dusseldorf and high into Bergland before he can cross the Rhine. The 
 besieged of the Busse when they see and hear the triumph the Prince of 
 Orange makes this night before their walls must receive great dis- 
 couragement and take good heed to compound betimes. Sir Edward Vere 
 is slain by casual musket shot in the head. General Morgan was 
 sent in post haste from hence as soon as he arrived from Luxstadt to 
 command at Amersfort. Afterwards he was sent to Naarden where 
 he now commands. At present our bells ring for ioy. At evening we 
 are to have public thanksgiving in all our churches, afterwards bonfires 
 and shooting of ordnance. 
 
 1629, August 27. Henton Daubeney. Sir Nicholas Hyde, Chief 
 Justice, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 His Majesty did graciously accept my endeavours in this late service. 
 If his Majesty so please the consideration of the offence in resistance 
 of my Lord Mayor may be referred to the Judges and I assure myself 
 that none amongst us will interpret their actions with any favour, for 
 they deserve it not. 
 
 1629, September 11. Canbury (Canonbury). Thomas Coventry, 
 Lord Keeper. [No address.] 
 
 Since your departure there hath been altum silentium. The Council 
 have not sitten this month. The King comes to Hampton Court the
 
 392 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 two and twentieth of this month. His Majesty is now at Wanstead 
 and did appoint to be at Theobalds on Saturday to continue there on 
 Sunday, yet I was told yesterday that it is not unlike that the King 
 himself will come to London on Saturday night and abide there on 
 Sunday and then again to his sports ; the cause why it is thought he may 
 come to London in respect of the Queen, who it was said would meet him 
 at Theobalds, will not go from Denmark House until Holy Rood day, 
 being a great day of devotion with her, be past. My Lord of Dor- 
 chester made appointment on Wednesday morning that we should meet 
 this afternoon in council where I purpose to be, and if your leisure 
 serve, it were not amiss you come also, for so you shall hear from them 
 that have been in progress how that sphere hath moved. I return unto 
 you the examinations you lent me. The King had some speech with me 
 and my Lord Privy Seal about that matter on Tuesday and as I think 
 doth see some reason not to press it further than the course into which 
 you put it. 
 
 1629, September. Mrs. Dorothy Carey (widow of Valentine Carey. 
 Bishop of Exeter) to Sir John Coke, Knight, at Tottenham. 
 
 Right Honourable, This bearer our Cousin Bussy desires to be an 
 humble suitor to you in the behalf of his brother Charles about a living 
 the which is bestowed on him, but there is some let in the settling of it 
 on him wrought by the now Dean of Lincoln, the which if you could 
 help him in, our poor sister would pray for you and her son be ever 
 bound to you for it. Mall and myself are glad to hear of your safe 
 return. 
 
 1629, October 1. Sir Robert Heath, Attorney-General, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The misdemeanour of the Earl of Fingal in marrying to his own 
 daughter the ward of Sir George Shurley should be punished, and the 
 grantee should have a good satisfaction for the marriage. 
 
 1629, October 7. Maw in Morvthen. Sir Thomas Lewis to Thomas 
 Gilbert of Lockoe. 
 
 I have heen in Lancashire with my daughter, her sister and their 
 friends where we had some conference for a match for myself. I will 
 meet you at Worksop if you and your friend desire being as yet free 
 from any promise or agreement with any, so that it be within this 
 month, for then I go towards London. Bashall is according to the 
 surveyance 2,230 acres long measure and 4,000 statute or thereabouts 
 free socage, holden of the Honour of Pontefract and the tithes holden 
 in capite. The gentlewoman is but little of growth, and if the gentle- 
 man you move for be of stature or years unfit, I doubt it will be a 
 great difficulty to proceed. 
 
 1629, October 9. Dorset House. Mary, Countess of Dorset (nee 
 Curzon) to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Kindred is so near a tie as I cannot but strive for the good of this 
 gentleman whose fortunes are at the lowest ebb. 
 
 1629, October 16. Hampton Court. George Lord Goring to Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 Having returned from northern parts I have found in my Lord 
 Carlisle's hands your singular care of me. Please to stay the signing of it 
 till Monday, when I shall attend you in London, and in the interim I 
 shall acquaint His Majesty therewith according to your wise friendly 
 advice.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 393 
 
 1629, October 20. Melbourne. Francis Astle to Sir J. Coke, at his Coke mss. 
 house on Garlick Hill. 
 
 Has spent 40/. 16s. 2d. in timber, and has hewn and gotten home 39 
 loads as much as will be needed before spring. Mr. Bainbrig says you 
 gave him great charge that the shoole a borde table be good and long. 
 Please to return me the plot. 
 
 1629, November 19. Sir Robert Heath, Attorney General, to Sir J. 
 Coke. 
 
 As to grant of Charter of Incorporation to the Company of Tailors 
 of the City of Oxford. I took order to insert a clause that it should no 
 way be prejudicial to the privileges or immunities of the said University 
 assuring you that no command fram His Majesty was cause of in- 
 terruption. 
 
 1629, November 13. Ludlow Castle. Sir Nicholas Overbury, 
 Marmaduke Horde, and Edward to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 We desire to know His Majesty's pleasure concerning the disposition 
 of tlie Groats [tax] deposited and hereafter to be taken, and to give life 
 to that business we have written to my Lord Keeper and my Lord 
 President. 
 
 1629, November 20. Thomas Alured to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Mr. Verney asked me whether your Honour had not asked me 
 touching the condition of the estate of one Mr. Savile lately dead, the 
 Clerk of the Peace for. the West Riding told me his estate was in 
 present at most 140/. per annum, 80/. a year after the Lady Monson's 
 term, and 200/. a year after young Sir Thomas Middleton's death who 
 married Sir George Savile's daughter. Either some of the kindred by 
 the mother have the wardship or the Lord President's Secretary of the 
 North who rode post for it. 
 
 1629, November 24. William Hele, Mayor of Plymouth, and his 
 brethren, Nicholas Sherwill and Thomas Sherwill, trustees for the 
 Borough, send to the Lords of the Council the examination of Gilbert 
 Brodyn, a Romish Catholic and seminary priest, who received his 
 orders from the titular Bishop of Limerick, and came with two other 
 Irishmen from Kinsale to Scilly and thence to Plymouth, going for 
 Brussels, with an intention to become friars of St. Francis' order or 
 Dominicans. They have not taken nor tendered themselves to take the 
 oaths of supremacy or allegiance. We have sent them all to the com- 
 mon gaol for the County of Devon. 
 
 1629, November 30. Drury House. Francis Manners, Earl of 
 Rutland, K.G., to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I am to entreat your lawful favour on the behalf of John Morecocke, 
 upon whom the late Duke of Buckingham bestowed the place of Cook 
 in His Majesty's ship now called the Triumph. I am persuaded of 
 the fellow's honesty and sufficiency in that place. 
 
 1629, December 1. Trinity College, Cambridge. John Whincop 
 to Sir John Coke, Secretary unto His Majesty, and one of His Majesty's 
 most Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 I was in good hope your son would not be sent for till some ten days 
 before Christmas : he hath promised me to perfect at home before that 
 time the two books not yet finished. 
 
 Your son hud order given in his letter to come in the coach, which he 
 had no mind to do, partly by reason of the tedious and wearisomeness of 
 the passage, sitting from 5 in the morning till almost nine at night, 
 plunging in the cold and dirt and dark, and that for two whole days
 
 394 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokb MSS. with strange company, and partly because he might have the company 
 otherwise of some of his acquaintance, fellow commoners of our own 
 college, and the carrier to lend them horses go along with them and 
 direct them all the best way, and so be but half the time that he should 
 have been in the coach. In these regards he was desirous to attend 
 your pleasure upon horseback which I have set forwards, and here pre- 
 sent him unto Your Honour hoping that as his behaviour has been 
 civil and studious here so will testify no less in his carriage with you 
 there. 
 
 1629, December 4. Sir W. Pitt's in Westminster. J. Rudhall to 
 Sir J. Coke, Whitehall. 
 
 For continuance of Richardson's patent of making saltpetre within 
 Hereford and adjacent counties, I do not think there is any of his frater- 
 nity but abuse both King and people. Yet there is a majus and minus 
 and I am inclined to believe the best of him for his friends' sake. To 
 serve the proportion by his patent enjoined him was an impossibility. 
 He hath bettered the works to enable him to serve in a greater propor- 
 tion hereafter. 
 
 1629, December 7. London. Edward Viscount Conway to Sir Isaac 
 Wake, Knight, His Majesty's Ambassador with the States of Venice, 
 the Duke of Savoy and other princes and States of Italy, at Turin. 
 
 Has had an access of sickness at Hampton Court, mistaken by the 
 physicians to be a spice of an apoplexy or a dead palsy, has remained 
 in London to timber up a decayed body ; will continue to apply him- 
 self to his gracious master's service. I have found to my great con- 
 tentment that you are in good estimation with His Majesty that you 
 have the powerful offices that my Lord of Carlisle can do for you. My 
 Lord Treasurer professeth that he hath done and is ready to do in con- 
 templation of your abilities employed in His Majesty's service all assis- 
 tance in his power. I went to my Lord of Porchester to understand 
 what was done for your support. He answered me Avith as good language 
 as I could expect, and did advise that all argument might be forborne 
 that did imply or threaten a failing of the service through a defect of 
 supply, and did conceive that you might, continuing your employment, 
 transfer your credit from one place to another. My Lord Treasurer 
 alleged that there had been formerly granted to you 1,000/., and that 
 since Michaelmas last he had appointed your assignations for 2,000/., 
 and that he was not without hope that monies might come in to furnish 
 you in some convenient time. This day I have received from my 
 daughter Wake a letter and motives to be presented to the King to stir 
 up his gracious consideration of your services and for your payment. I 
 will not fail to procure the King to read them. The success which the 
 States and Prince of Orange have had this year against the King of 
 Spain hath brought the affairs to such a state as the King of Spain may 
 need a peace or cessation of arms with them. Sir Francis Cottingtor;. 
 will sooner advertise you from Spain than hither. Don Carolo 
 Colomna hath been long expected. I profess ingeniously that I take as 
 much comfort in the virtue and goodness of my daughter, your lady, as 
 in any daughter I have. I will endeavour all the duties of love and 
 affection, to become worthy to be accounted your Lordship's loving 
 father, faithful friend, and humble servant. 
 
 1629, December 10. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke " Lands sold by the 
 Londoners." 
 
 "Of lands sold before 10th December 1629 no surveys appearing, 
 nor what estates were in the several manors it is hard to judge of the
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 395 
 
 over or underselling. It may seem fit to require the particulars CokeJISS. 
 specially of these great bargains 
 
 Yorkshire The Manor of Nunnington sold for 3687 7 6 
 
 Whereof in debts 187 9 8 
 
 Sundry particulars to the Countess of Winchelsea 
 
 sold for ..... 5099 15 
 
 The Manor of Ashburton in Devon and other 
 manors sold to Alderman Freeman and Alder- 
 man Parkhurst for ---. 9927 15 11 
 
 1629, December ^|. Dantzic. Sir Thomas Eoe to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of the principal Secretaries to His Majesty, in London. 
 
 Since I have been at the Court and Parliament of Poland and 
 there performed the commands of His Majesty with indifferent success 
 1 was received and used honourably. In that assembly was nothing 
 handled but matters concerning the truce ; the ratification levies 
 of moneys power to the King to constitute new commissioners with 
 plenipotence for the general treaty designed all of which were esta- 
 blished with the usual confusion in their Diets. I found the country so 
 wasted and spoiled for near 100 English miles that the few houses in 
 the villages had fewer inhabitants and they no meals the most miser- 
 able spectacle I ever beheld. As yet the King of Sweden exacts 
 upon all the trade before this port near 30 in 100 ; 12 and 14 before 
 the Pillau which is intolerable we are content to grant him 3 in both 
 so they may be equal and two to the Elector of Brandenburg at Kon- 
 ingsberg and as much to this City which is five in the whole and this 
 is also too great if he employ it not for the public from whom and his 
 friends he wringeth it ; and the hope whereof only hath made me linger 
 because he cloth prepare a mighty army which he doth design to main- 
 tain at the common charge and on the trades and I know not where 
 he can employ it having no enemy but in Pomerland where Walstein 
 both fears him and prepares for him. He makes war occasione tem- 
 poris and according to other conjunctures : he is a most brave and 
 glorious prince that hath higher designs than the world hath dis- 
 covered his word is he will die a King in the worst of fortune : and 
 I am persuaded in the spring he will act his part on a new theatre. 
 God send him good success. 
 
 1629, received 13 December. Sa. Va. Particulars concerning the 
 decay of navigation mariners and merchants, with considerations, &c. 
 upon the same. (2 copies.) (No signature). 
 
 Transportation of sea coal, red and white herring, pilchers and fish 
 from Newfoundland into foreign parts in foreign bottoms. 
 
 Hollanders have the whole trade of Ireland. Loss of His Majesty's 
 customs, of owners of ships and mariners, and of trade to the 
 merchant. 
 
 Mr. Boswel.- -Importation of 12,000 tuns of French wine yearly, 
 corrance (currants) and other commodities of the Levant. Strangers 
 carry away the coin and undo the merchants by interest. 
 
 1629, December 14. On board the Lion in the Downs. Sir Henry 
 Mervyn to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Sends particulars of victuals received and required to prevent such 
 extremities as we have lately suffered, which have much discouraged 
 our men and weakened our company by sickness. I set sail for Dun- 
 kirk, being advertised by Signor Don Carlos of purpose to be there 
 ready to take shipping on New Year's day by their account. 
 
 1629, December 14.- -Jacques de Primerose, Docteur en Medicine es 
 Universites de Montpellier and Oxford, offre volontairement d'ensei^ner
 
 396 
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. la medicine quatre fois la semaine constamment la plus grande partie 
 de l'annee ne desirant autre recompense que le contentement de profiter 
 au public et de posseder l'honneur d'etre Professeur de sa Majeste en 
 la ville de Londres. 
 
 Indorsed with "An Examination of Edward Wiggins concerning Mr. 
 Hawley" lodging in Moyle Street, which is in the same lane where is 
 Barber Chirurgeon's Hall. 
 
 In the same house are 14 or 15 persons ; none of them cometh to 
 church ; it is one of the best houses in the parish, and many coaches 
 come daily thither. The neighbours all suspect them, and desire to be 
 rid of them. Other adjoining houses belong to the Lord Windsor, and 
 are all popish. 
 
 1629, December 14. Ro. Booth to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 (A begging letter.) Turning my course again to Virginia and waiting 
 at the Downs for the ship, a vehement diarrhoea fell upon me. I could 
 not go to sea, but expecting this U\ixs *hws in the spring. I now 
 travel to the Bishop of Coventry. I desire your assistance proviatico 
 and that the Bishop be not offended de honestamento vestitus mei. I 
 esteemed your love and friendship the joy of my heart and the ornament 
 of my life. 
 
 1629, December 15. Thomas Alured to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The Lord is not come to town, though Sir William, his elder uncle, 
 stayed purposely to have seen him. I do perceive he is intent and bent 
 for a French progress ere he settle either himself or his estate which 
 is not much to the satisfaction of his friends nor (they fear) for his 
 safety. 
 
 1629, December 16. 
 
 Pintadoes received from Amsterdam out of the ship Morris and 
 conteyne by measure as foil. : 
 
 
 Length. 
 
 Breadth. 
 
 Yards 
 
 
 Square. 
 
 1 p ce with the king's armes, the Sunn and Moor.e, 
 
 ' 4 
 
 ^4 
 
 30i$ 
 
 lyned ahout the edge -with white callico cont. 
 
 
 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe, with personage and cont. 
 
 9 
 
 il 
 
 -s 
 
 25f 
 251 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe, with personage and cont. 
 
 9 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe, with personage and cont. 
 
 9 1 
 
 ^4 
 
 3 
 
 27} 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe, with personage and cont. 
 
 9f 
 
 3 
 
 29i 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe, with personage and cont. 
 
 9} 
 
 3 
 
 29i 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe, with personage and cont. 
 
 73. 
 
 ' 4 
 
 2 
 
 16-!- 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe, with personage and cont. 
 
 7| 
 
 2fk 
 
 16M 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe on hoth sides, with personage 
 
 9f 
 
 
 
 19J 
 
 for curtains. 
 
 
 
 
 1 p ce 6ne pintadoe on hoth sides, with personage 
 
 10 
 
 2 
 
 20 
 
 for curtains. 
 
 
 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe on both sides, with personage 
 
 8 
 
 2 
 
 16 
 
 for curtains. 
 
 
 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe for vallance cont. - 
 
 n 
 
 o-V 
 
 H 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe for vallance cont. ... 
 
 n 
 
 ok 
 
 H 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe for vallance cont. - 
 
 4 
 
 Ok fere 
 
 4 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe for a carpett or quilt cont. 
 
 H 
 
 9i 
 *4 
 
 6 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe for a carpett or quilt cont. 
 
 H 
 
 9i 
 -4 
 
 7 7TT 
 
 1 p ce fine pintadoe for a carpett or quilt cont. 
 
 H 
 
 21- 
 
 ' Ttf 
 
 1 p ce fine table cloath, bordered with pintadoe cont. 
 
 H 
 
 lf 
 
 S 1 a 
 
 18 p ces all sorts, amount to square yards 
 
 - 
 
 
 
 297|
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 397 
 
 Res d the 23 of December 1629, of Mr- Sectrey Coke. Coke MSS. 
 
 p. the hands of Mr. Thomas Rastell the sum of thirtie seaven pounds 
 three shillings nyne pence in full for the aforesaid pintadoes, r 3 I say. 
 p. Jo n Massingberd for Mr. Robert Bateman. 
 
 Thr. 
 
 Indorsed by S r J. Coke. " 1629, Dec. 1G. The Bill for pintados 
 bought of the East Indian companie." 
 
 23 die Decern. 1629. Received by me Sir John Coke/""] 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, of 
 Arthur Squibe, Esquire, one of the tellers of His Majesty's 
 receipts of the Exchequer by order dated the 4th of May 1629, 
 maintained by virtue of His Majesty's letters of privy seal 
 dormant dated the 4th of November 1625, the sum of one i 
 hundred three score and fifteen pounds in full of the said order ' ' ' 
 for payment of the 525/. parcel of my allowance of 700/. per 
 annum for intelligence and other secret services payable 
 quarterly, upon certificates or writing under my hand during 
 pleasure and due for three quarters of a year ended at our 
 Lady Day last 1629 . . . 
 
 1629, December 31. Sir J. Coke to Sir Nicholas Overbury. (Copy.) 
 New references have been procured on the behalf of the patentee 
 which keeps your business in suspense. It hath been objected that 
 yourself in your circuit hath displaced this suitor from some office he 
 held under you. You will do well to cjnsider whether it will not 
 nourish ill affection in that Lord upon whom he did depend. 
 
 1629. A paper endorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Copies of acquittances 
 given for my fee and intelligence monies due at Lady Day 1629." 
 
 24 die Decern. 1629. Received by me, Sir John Coke,"") 
 Knight, one of the principal Secretaries of State, of Arthur '. 
 Squibe, Esquire, one of the Tellers of His Majesty's receipt of ! 9 . 
 Exchequer the sum of 25/. parcel of my fee of 100/. per annum, j ' 
 due for a quarter ended at our Lady Day last, 1629. I say f 
 received the sum of - - - - - -J 
 
 (1629.) The answer of Sir Henry Palmer to the informations 
 against him taken at [Plymouth] by confession and upon examination. 
 To the first it savours of so much malice and falsehood, as by it your 
 Lordship may judge whereto the rest of these informations aim. For 
 whereas they affirm that in the cliase of the ten ships at Cape Hage, we 
 only took three and neglected the pursuit of the rest, I appeal to the 
 Earl of Danby and the other gent, on board me, who kept aloft on the 
 deck to observe the chase, whether we pursued them not further than 
 the allowance of our pilot and as long as daylight would permit, with 
 what care on my part I leave to their relation. (He further answers 
 various specific charges of misappropriation of the lading of the ships 
 taken.) 
 
 (1629.) Petition to the King of Captain Henry Keys. 
 
 The petitioner having a command in the Low Countries, left it to 
 serve his Majesty in the voyages to Cales [Cadiz] and the lie of Rhe 
 and Rochelle as captain of a foot company : and for reward of his 
 services the Duke of Buckingham obtained for him a blanc for makino- 
 a baronet, which the petitioner, in a dutiful conformity to his Majesty's 
 pleasure has resigned. He asks for the like employment, as he has 
 several times had in his Majesty's service.
 
 398 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1629. Entertainment of 5,000 foot and 500 horse [in Ireland as they 
 
 were allowed by the former establishment till the year 1629] within 
 ] added by Sir J. Coke 
 f 
 
 per hebdomad : azt. 
 ccxxxii. 
 
 per diem - clxxvi 
 176/. 
 
 per mens : 28 dier : 
 azt. c. 
 iiii. ix. xxviii. 
 
 4,928/. 
 
 1,232/. 
 
 azt. t , 
 per arm : 365 dierum lxiiii cc xl sterling. 
 
 64,240/. 
 
 About 1629. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. " Memorial for the Lord 
 Herbert." Rough draft, beginning "Tour Lordship may be pleased to 
 consider these particulars which being otherwise delivered may reflect 
 upon the State." 
 
 Sir J. Coke states the causes and provocatious which concurred to 
 press his Majesty to that resolution which was taken to defend those of 
 the religion, and to do right to his subjects who had suffered so much 
 wrong. He also makes observations on the stile and language of Lord 
 Herbert's work. 
 
 " The Duke in many places is honoured much : but this honour is 
 allowed with so many aspersions that in the end he gaineth nothing by 
 the bargain specially where it is said in the 7th chapter that his difference 
 with the Cardinal was the cause of this war and of the disturbance of 
 other countries : which cannot but reflect upon the honour of King and 
 State, and ought not to be published." 
 
 About 1629. The same amplified in a paper by Sir J. Coke, headed 
 " The Lord Herbert's Isle of Retz." 
 
 . Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. Seven manners of opposing an 
 
 enemy, collected by the Lord Herbert. 
 
 . Indorsement by Sir J, Coke, of which only " Douglas " 
 
 remains. 
 
 Explanation of cipher in a paper relating to the princes and statesmen 
 of the Empire of Sweden and of England. 
 
 . Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. "Sir Wm. More's propositions." 
 
 Propositions by Mungo Moore for an expedition against Taceres 
 
 (Terceira) and St. Michael's in the Azores. A description of these 
 
 Islands. 
 
 1629-30, January 5. 16 captains of vessels at Portsmouth to Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 Desire furtherance for victuals and pay. 
 
 Memorandum by Sir J. Coke endorsed. " Of the ships and arrears of 
 pay, some 15, some 25 months. Victuals ended 31 December." 
 
 1629-30, January 9, Dublin. R. Boyle, Earl of Cork, to Viscount 
 Dorchester, Principal Secretary to the King's Majesty at Court. 
 
 At my being in England I took into observation the sense of the 
 Parliament against the over bold liberty and presumption of the friars, 
 Jesuits, &c. in this city, not without tax to the government for not 
 restraining their unbridled liberty. I found by good intelligence 
 that there were by Christmas ten houses of friars, nuns, Jesuits, and 
 priests of several orders conventually gotten together in this city and 
 suburbs, each house having a head or governor with mighty resorts 
 unto them. And that in one of the houses erected by the Countess 
 Dowager of Kildare, and by her richly adorned and furnished for the
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 399 
 
 Jesuits, there were many active spirits descended of good houses who 
 held dangerous principles. And that in another of the nunneries there 
 was a governor brought from Dunkirk with one nun, the daughter of 
 the Earl of Westmeath, another of the Earl of Fingal, two of the Lord 
 Viscount Gormanstown, two of the Lord Viscount Dillon, and divers 
 young professed nuns being the daughters of divers prime gentlemen. 
 On St. Stephen's day we imparted our purpose to the Council, 
 where it received general allowance, and before it could be noised we 
 presently employed the Lord Archbishop, the Mayor, Recorder, and 
 Sheriffs of Dublin, who proceeded and were affronted as in our general 
 letters to the Lords is declared. I that have lived here above forty 
 years and not ignorant of the dispositions of this nation, who will show their 
 teeth and speak high words to uphold their superstitions, was nothing 
 appalled thereat, although my whole estate and fortunes depend upon 
 the peace of this kingdom. I advised and prevailed to cause all 
 the prime recusant aldermen, &c, to be called before the Council 
 Table. And thereupon six of the prime papistical offending aldermen 
 were committed, and some other offenders, who after some weeks re- 
 straint did by their petition for liberty protest much readiness in 
 his Majesty's service. They were enlarged upon bonds of 1,000/. 
 apiece, commanding that they should all in person attend the Mayor 
 and Sheriffs first to the house of friars, where the affront was offered, to 
 the Lord Archbishop and the Mayor, and to seize the same unto his 
 Majesty's use, and this done to proceed to another, and so from one to 
 one till they had cleared all those houses of Jesuits, friars, nuns, &c, 
 and seized all the houses (being ten in number) into his Majesty's 
 hands, which, God be praised, is this day done and the keys of them 
 presented unto us at the Table. I hope it will receive allowance 
 in his Majesty's gracious approbation, which if we maybe comforted 
 withal it will encourage us with much confidence to proceed by degrees 
 and to take the like temperate courses of reformation in all other cities 
 and chief places of this kingdom infected as this is with like con- 
 vents and the dregs of popish frenzy. If His Majesty command the 
 demolishing of that house of friars in Cook Street where there were 22 
 resident in their habits, and in which the Lord Archbishop and Mayor 
 were first affronted, I presume it would be done without noise ; and 
 some other of their superstitious houses made houses of correction and 
 places to set the idle poor people on work in which kind the city 
 abouudeth. 
 
 1G29-30, January 16. The Duchy House. Henry Cary, Viscount 
 Falkland (54), to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 His Majesty is pleased that I have the abstracts of the Remon- 
 strances and Examinations made by yourself put into my hands that 
 1 may be prepared to give answer to them. I beseech you send them 
 by the bearer. 
 
 1629-.K), January 19. Wakefield. An. Cressy to Mr. Fulwood at 
 Gray's Inn. 
 
 Having inquired for a particular of young William Savile's estate, 
 whose wardship Sir J. Coke hath, the collector of rents was pro- 
 hibited by the Monsons from giving it. Besides I have been already 
 crossed by Mr. Wentworth and Mr. Monckton in the draft and in some 
 particulars concerning the estate. 
 
 1629-30, January 27. [Endorsement by Sir J. Coke] : " Mr. 
 Fincham's relation read to His Majesty 27th January 1629."
 
 400 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. The causes of my imprisonment were, first, because I had received 
 
 divers letters of the Pope's Nuncio and other English priests in Paris 
 which should have been sent into England to the pretended Bishop of 
 Chalcedon and divers priests in England, which were never delivered, 
 but sent to His Majesty and his Privy Council in England. Second, 
 because Mr. Foster suspected me because I would not go with him in 
 procession publicly among the French to give thanks to God for the 
 first flight of the English from before Rochelle ; he was also fearful 
 and jealous of me because he had showed me very many patents and 
 charters of most of our maritime towns in England with their havens, 
 ports and creeks, works, sands and shelves, with their fortresses and 
 munitions in them, which he had furnished to Monsr. Ville aux Clerks. 
 He finding I did detest his speeches and actions wrote unto the 
 Bishop and priests into England against me, and receiving their 
 malicious answers sent them to Rochelle to Cardinal Richelieu, also 
 incensing Cardinal Berule and the Pope's Nuncio against me, who 
 before were my great and intimate friends. One other cause of my 
 imprisonment was because I would not consent to come over to Eng- 
 land to procure by all my friends if the King would desire the Queen 
 to write to her mother in making an overture of peace. As also 
 I refused the offers of the said Cardinal Berule, who assured me if I 
 would serve the King of France faithfully I should be furnished with 
 money to procure any government upon our sea coasts in England 
 with 20,000 crowns for my pains and a pension of 6,000 crowns for 
 my life, which motion of Cardinal Berule was since offered me in the 
 Bastile by Mr. Ville aux Clerks and Count de Tilliers. I assure 
 myself that these foresaid reasons were the causes of my long, cruel, 
 and most barbarous imprisonment. 1 being in prison was removed out 
 of one base chamber into another worse, where I found a French 
 gentleman called M. du Roche, imprisoned only upon a suspicion 
 that he held a private correspondence with the Duke of Savoy. He 
 told me and writ to me divers times how that the death of the Duke of 
 Buckingham was fully resolved, as also the death and destructions 
 of our King, his family, and kingdoms by the Cardinal Richelieu, 
 Friar Joseph, Boutilier the Garde sceau, Cardinal Berule, Mr. Fouquett, 
 and Trembley, governor of the Bastile and brother to Friar Joseph, a 
 Capuchin. He also told me how that they had gained one Fullerton, 
 a Scotchman, prisoner in the Bastile, to betray and deliver to them 
 the Isle of Guernsey and Castle Cornett, and they had sent one 
 Porsier to view the said island. He told me how the King of England 
 had a French doctor called Mayherne, which was as dangerous and 
 damnable a fellow as ever was Judas, and also one Mr. Primrose, a 
 minister, and that the said Du Roche had heard and seen such letters 
 of theirs as made his hair to stand upright. This he learned by a 
 Frenchman which was sometime his comrade called La Biviere, who 
 upon the beginning of this pretended peace was put out of the Bastile, 
 and sent privately into England to help them in their wicked designs, 
 and is now in London under pretence to practise physic. 
 
 [Du Roche became the chamber comrade of Fincham and made many 
 communications to him as to the feigned peace. Du Roche's wife was 
 admitted and took a packet from Fincham to Monsieur du Pont when 
 he took his diet, who should have sent it by a woollendraper in Paris 
 to Dieppe and so to England. The packet was taken and all 
 known. Du Pont put into the Bastile.] I being sick was searched to 
 my skin, all my trunks and apparel rifled and carried out of chamber, 
 my comrade put into a base cachot all alone, and my man taken from 
 me and put into another, used like a dog. I was most cruelly used
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 401 
 
 and interrogated about twenty times by two Masters of Requests, CokeMSS. 
 protesting to me on the part of the King of .France that his arms were 
 so long and strong as if ever I spake word of these affairs to any 
 creature living he would cause my head to be laid on the block were I 
 in any place of Europe. I told them God would defend my innoceucy. 
 When they saw that my Lord Ambassador urged my liberty poor 
 Du Roche was one night late fetched out of the Bastile on the sudden, 
 carried away secretly, no man knows whither. Fullerton was like- 
 wise carried out of the Bastile (upon the peace) to another base prison, 
 and upon our coming forth the Bastile he was also carried forth 
 that prison, no man knows whither; before my coming forth Fouquett, 
 he that interrogated me, came to me on the King's part, that he had 
 sent me his grace, my pardon, and liberty, upon condition I never re- 
 turn into France without being sent by the Kin of England. May 
 it please you to pardon my boldness and I will deliver my opinion of 
 the premises. I verily believe they will do their uttermost to make 
 an invasion and conquest of our kingdoms ; they do and will labour 
 tooth and nail to make a cabal both in England, Scotland, and Ireland, 
 for their parts as well with the iaics as with the priests and Jesuits ; 
 tliey do and will labour to put and place such about the King and 
 Queen in England as shall serve them for so many intelligencers and 
 to blow the coals of sedition between the King and his subjects. 
 Cardinal Berule oftentimes moved me to undertake to deliver Jersey, 
 and since my imprisonment Count de Tilliers has moved me to be 
 naturalized in France. Fere Saucy the Oratorian came also to 
 persuade mc to serve the French King and the Church of Rome ; he 
 told me that deed was not done nor word spoken by our King nor his 
 Council, but it was right well and soon known in Fiance that we 
 should be severely punished for our perfidies before it be long, he 
 meaning by an invasion. 
 
 1629-30, February 1. Wigan Hall. John Bridgeman, Bishop 
 of Chester, to the Lord Viscount Wentworth, Lord President of the 
 North, and one of His Majesty's most honourable Frivy Council. 
 
 I have with all faithfulness and diligence endeavoured to perform 
 your commands in Lancashire and would most gladly have continued 
 there but that 1 am amandntod from this place and must repair to my 
 house in Chester, for so 1 have received his Majesty's pleasure signified 
 by mv Lord's Grace of York. 1 shall conform myself unto his 
 pleasure although I am persuaded his Majesty would rather command 
 mc to stay where I am it' he knew how inconveniently I am seated at 
 Chester, and how my residence in Wigan (being near the centre of 
 my diocese) may stop those currents of popery and schism which had 
 I not lived here ere this would unavoidably have overflown this country. 
 But as there is a curtain drawn twixt our eyes in the country and 
 the reasons of state policy, so I know authority must have obedience 
 without any renitence or dispute. 
 
 1029-30, February 8. A paper indorsed by Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Considerations for the service of the Navy for this year. The same 
 care to be used for the year 1631. 
 
 Notes of matters resolved at a conference by Sir John Coke, Sir 
 William Russell and Mr. Burrell. 
 
 1629-30, February 3. Le Chevalier de Boisgandrie to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 La miserc enlaquelleje suis retenu sans savoir pourquoi on ne me 
 fait justice, de vous supplie de vouloir representer an Roi les services 
 que jc lui ai rendus et lui peux rendre. II ne se passera quoi que cc 
 U 24963. C C
 
 402 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION'. 
 
 Coke MSS. s it ties affaires des Recusans en ect etat que je ne vous en avertisse, et 
 
 vous jure que dans six mois je vous metterai es mains I'eveque de 
 
 Calseidon (Chalcedon) sachant ou il se retire. On a fait sortir le pretre 
 
 Mildecaif archediacre de I'eveque de eette prison et maintenant qu'il est 
 
 en liberte il fait faire forces ecrits pour envoyer au pape. 
 
 1G29-30, February 12. Petition to the Lords of the Council at 
 Whitehall of the Merchants of the Eastland Company complaining of 
 infringement of their privileges, referred to Viscount Porchester, 
 Mr. Secretary Coke, and the Vice Chamberlain. 
 
 1629-30, February 15. Evidence against Captain Dowell. 
 
 The examination of Captain Richard Dowell of Cowes in the Isle of 
 Wight, gentleman, taken before John Billinghurst, Deputy Coroner in 
 the presence of the Jury impannelled to inquire upon the view of the 
 body of Arian Finke. 
 
 * * 
 
 Christian Christiansen, gunner of Captain Finke ship, the deceased's 
 brother affirmeth on his oath by the interpretation of George Seaborne 
 one of the Jury understanding Dutch. 
 
 Who saith that the quarrel first began among the Flemings about 
 tobacco, and that the Flemings having their knives drawn Thomas 
 Drauffield the gunner coming by required the peace x thereupon some 
 of them fell upon him and laid hold of his sword and bid him be quiet 
 and that then the Captain which is in hold came to them and drew 
 his rapier and thrust the said Arian in with his rapier under the pap 
 whereupon the said Arian fell down flat on his back crying cut I am 
 thrust though and died presently. 
 
 Upon which evidence the Jury have presented that the said Captain 
 Dowell hath feloniously slain the said Arian. 
 
 1629-30, February 19 e A paper signed by James Ussher Archbishop 
 of Armagh and indorsed by Sir John Coke " The Friar James Nugent 
 his confession received from the Primate.' 3 
 
 For the conversion of Scotland unto the Roman Catholic religion arc 
 sent from the Pope in Mission with the allowance of three score pounds 
 divisim or conjunctim for their maintenance to be paid by the Nuncio 
 of Brussels these of the Order of St. Francis made Doctors of Divinity 
 to that effect by his Holiness Father Patrick Hegactie Father James 
 O'Neile Father Edmund Canner Father Owen M c Ward, which Owen 
 now pr-isoner in England at his return from Rome about three years ago 
 opened unto Father Thomas Babe and me then confessors of the 
 English and Irish nuns of Gravelines and Dunkirk at Calais that 
 in that journey he was employed by the Roman Catholic nobility of 
 Scotland to offer their service unto his Holiness towards the conquest 
 of the kingdom of Scotland by any Roman Catholic Prince, which he 
 revealing after supper unto us and after many other trivial discourses 
 of that country bound us unto secrecy which we promised, both for that 
 as then we had no mind to come unto Ireland or any other of the King's 
 dominions being appointed to serve in our places as long as the unknown 
 will of our Superior would determine, which promise I have hitherto 
 observed moved thereunto by mere conscience, which finding through 
 the mercies of God to be erroneous I am not out of hope to be pardoned 
 for my silence which now I speak in the duty of my loyalty wherein
 
 HISTOKICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 403 
 
 God and nature hath tied me to my King and country, and will depose Coke MSS. 
 this against this party and parties whose persons I love and who never 
 offended me in any particular. (Signed) James Nugent. 
 
 This is a true copy of the confession acknowledged before me at 
 Drogheda the 27th of January 1629 by James Nugent late Friar of the 
 Order of S. Francis. Ja. Armachanus. 
 
 1620-30, February 21. Petition of Captain Richard Do well, who 
 having been called to rescue an officer of one of his Majesty's castles 
 who was like to have been slain by a company of Dutchmen and one of 
 the Dutchmen being slain, is to stand upon trial for his life at the next 
 assizes. Note by Sir John Coke "A warrant for his reprieve sent to 
 Judge Richardson and Baron Denham. February 22." 
 
 1629-30, February 27. The Duchy House. Henry Cary Viscount 
 Falkland to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Asks Sir J. Coke to dine with him at the Duchy, to-morrow, that 
 after dinner they may attend His Majesty at Denmark House, as all the 
 Council in town art; commanded to do. It is necessary to take order 
 that Owen Mac Warde a Franciscan friar be not released before His 
 Majesty understand the information. 
 
 1629-30, February 28. On board II.M. Pinnace the Ninth IJo?i\s 
 IVficlp in the River of Bristol. Captain Anthony Rice to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 If another is to have this ship it will be an utter undoing of me in my 
 reputation and withal such a discouragement as is not to be expressed. 
 I beseech your Honour to stick unto me. 
 
 1629-30, March 1. Dunkirk. Jacques dc Lange a Monsieur le Sieur 
 
 Jacques dc la Grange, chez le Sieur , Armorier en Holborn en 
 
 Londres. 
 
 Particulars of business matters. Marquis Spinola is returned. 
 
 1629-30, March 2. Indorsed by J. Coke, "Draft of a patent for 
 Phinees Pett," to be a Commissioner of the Navy at 200/. per annum. 
 
 1629-30, March 3. Newmarket, Dudley Carleton Viscount Dor- 
 chester to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries 
 to His Majesty. 
 
 Your letter concerning the company which would have stolen over with 
 Rubens came opportunely to meet with one from the Spanish Ambassa- 
 dor to my Lord of Suffolk desiring either their passport, to go over seas 
 or liberty lien; at home. His Majesty is not pleased to grant cither of 
 them till his coming to London. On Saturday His Majesty intendeth 
 to go through as he came in a day. Concerning the place of Surveyor 
 of the Ordnance, His Majesty doth persist in his good purpose not to 
 permit in I hat or any other belonging to his service buying and selling. 
 
 1629-30, March 7. Sir John Coke asks the Lord Steward to give order 
 to Mr. Cofferer (Sir Marmaduke Darrell) to pay his arrearages of board 
 wages (2.'5*/. 15. 3r/,) half before Midsummer and half before 
 Michaelmas. 
 
 1629-30, March 11. Trinity College, Cambridge. Samuel Brooke, 
 Master of Trinity, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of 
 His Majesty and one of his Majesty's Privy Council. 
 
 I take upon me to write in defence of the fame of that College which 
 your honour loves. Here the paper is now signed with four hands 
 of four that are Fellows chosen and are to commence Masters in Arts 
 this year.
 
 404- HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. [Incl-Dsure.] Whereas we the Bachelors of Arts of Trinity College 
 
 invited the Bachelors of St. John's College to supper in the hall this 
 last Christmas they having invited us before ; and whereas it is given 
 out that we then spent 30/. in wine we to clear ourselves of this false 
 imputation of excess laid upon us do witness upon our faith and 
 conscience that the supper that night cost but 3/., the wine but 1/. 1 5s. 
 at the most, and this we will avouch upon our oaths if need so require. 
 
 James Duport. Seth Kettlewell. Charles Procter. Nicholas 
 Longe. 
 
 The Bachelors of both houses at this supper were threescore persons 
 beside servitors as I believe and forgot to write in my letters to your 
 Honour. Samuel Brooke. 
 
 1629-30, March 11. London. Don Carlos Colonna, Ambassador for 
 Spain, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Ayant entendu qu'une damoiselle de cette ville, laquelle s'en allait 
 vers le Pays Bas en compagnie de mon gendre le S r Don Jean Vasquez 
 et le Sec re Rubens a dessein de se marier par de la avec un Cavalier, 
 seroit arretee avec une sienne servante et deux gentilshommes qui 
 l'accompagneraient par ordre du Conseil de sa majeste sur la presuppo- 
 sition du lieutenant de Douvres, je vous prie d'interposer votre autorite 
 afin que la dite damoiselle puisse suivre son voyage. 
 
 1629-30, March 12. Chatham. Sir Gylf. Slyngisbie, W. Burrell, 
 Phineas Pett, Officers of the Navy, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Only the want of Captains to the Whelps is a main hindrance, but 
 that the ships might fall over the Chain and be ready to receive their 
 ammunition. 
 
 1629-30,March 13. Ashton. Sir George Chudleigh to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Your favour is not least perspicuous in your noble descent to the 
 speedy and effectual answer of my over-bold desires. I humbly beseech 
 your Honour to concur with me in hope that I may one day have the 
 happiness by some real service to express my thankfulness. 
 
 1629-30, March 16. Chatham Hill. W. Burrell to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Having engaged in the affair concerning the Company of Shipwrights, 
 asks that the execution against Mr. Graves, Mr. Tinker, and John 
 Greenhouse may be respited ; unless that unruly party Robert Higdon 
 be checked for his insolency and his refractory disposition curbed by 
 authority all will be ruined by disorder. 
 
 1630, March 28, O.S. The Hague. Sir Henry Vane to Sir John 
 Coke. [Endorsed by Sir J. Coke] : Sir Henry Vane from the Hague. 
 
 Concerning the returning of the Amboyna witnesses for that I cannot 
 give his Majesty assurance of the issue thereof I conceive it to be my 
 part to endeavour La sortie de bonne grace. I am of opinion that as 
 soon as the witnesses shall be returned the judges of that cause Avill 
 put an end thereunto and release their own subjects interested therein. 
 My humble advise is that those propositions which are upon record in 
 their assembly should be annulled by a second which I would make unto 
 them before I return the witnesses, and that I would ground the same 
 upon the 30th Article and the explanation thereof in the treaty of 1619 
 that I conceive allows His Majesty co-equality in judicature, that 
 according to that Article allowing his Ambassador to be present they 
 assenting the witnesses to be examined. I am resolved neither to 
 return the witnesses nor proceed any further in the cause without 
 express order from His Majesty and your Honour.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 405 
 
 1630, March 28. The Tower. Sir Allen Apsley, Lieutenant of the CckeMSS. 
 Tower of London, to the Clerk of His Majesty's most honourable Privy 
 Council now attending or any other that is to attend. 
 
 I am so outbraved by the fishmonger, a yeoman warder of this place 
 as I think never Lieutenant was before. Under the colour that I owe 
 him money for fish for the prisoners, I having this day taken physic 
 
 1 sent him word by my man that I neither could nor was fit to 
 
 speak with him at this time, whereupon he forced my door upon me, 
 I thought he would have killed me, for he vowed by all the oaths under 
 heaven he would not out of my chamber until I paid him. My breeches 
 not fast I flew to my sword and he buckling with me I weak my man 
 thrust him out of my chamber, where he lies beating at my lodging 
 chamber will suffer me to take no rest. If I had money as I have nol 
 and should pay him by this forcible means all the creditors I have 
 would come and not depart from my door till they had killed me being 
 sick .... he hath served other men for mure than a year and. 
 followed them with his wife into the King's Bench making them- 
 selves their covenant servants, and when the prisoners were sent hither 
 for punishment and ought to come to th Lieutenant's table and pay 
 for their lodging and diet he lodges and diets them at an underhand 
 rate to the overthrowing of all precedent. I humbly beseech you move 
 one of the Secretaries of State to send a messenger for him to answer 
 such objections in His Majesty's behalf as I shall charge him with. 
 
 1630, April 3. Ham : Cusake to Sir John Coke, Knight, Secretary 
 of State to His Majesty and one of His most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Mr. Vice-Chamberlain prays your honour to give him meeting with 
 Mr. Justice Johns. My Lord Treasurer as yet hath sent no direction 
 into Ireland for the stay of passing under the seal there such particulars 
 of lands and other things as of late have passed the signet here. 
 
 1630, April 6. Preston. George Dickson, Vicar of Preston, to Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 I and mine are bound unto Tour Honour for the good which your 
 letters did me, the one to Mr. Powell to procure a presentation, the 
 other to myself , upon sight whereof the Bishop of Gloucester who before 
 was somewhat averse became very favourable. Some had basely offered 
 money which was such a strong temptation there was much ado to resist 
 it. 
 
 1630, April 6. Jo. Wolferston to Henry Lord Viscount Falkland, 
 one of the Lords of the most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Whereas I am questioned for some speeches touching your Lordship, 
 that your Lordship should have a blow given you and should not know 
 who gave it you. I do before God deny the same to be trne or that 1 
 ever had any such thought. As touching that I said God forbid, hearing 
 one say that your lordship was to be Deputy for Ireland, again [do con- 
 fess (hat the words passed hastily from me in respect of others depending 
 on your favour who have diversly injured me and my friends to your 
 Lordship in that Kingdom. I am heartily sorry that your Lordship 
 should conceive ill of me and humbly pray your noble furtherance for 
 mine enlargement. 
 
 1630, April 21. Whitehall. Sir William Alexander to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, His Majesty's principal Secretary and one of His most 
 honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Honourable Sir, Having heard thai the Committee for Ireland is to 
 meet this day these are only to recommend unto you the business con-
 
 406 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coze MSS. cerning ray son-in-law whereof I spake unto you, and his brother showed 
 you the petition before : entreating only your friendly adverting there- 
 unto that it may have way so far as justice and equity in like cases doth 
 allow. 
 
 1630, April . Whitehall. Dudley Carleton, Viscount Dorchester, to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I give you many thanks for the endeavour you have already used with 
 your Lady's kinsman [Captain Lee] Avhereby to recover unto me if not 
 my birthright yet natal e solum, and that which (because it holds the 
 sepulchres of my father and grandfather) I have more right to look 
 after than any other. I told you truly of somewhat which lies in the 
 hands of my nephew John Carleton's friends by the mother's side 
 [Elizabeth Brockett, of Brockett, Herts,] which might breed trouble to 
 a stranger. 1 will make his price good unto him. 
 
 1630, April . Adam Viscount Loftus, Lord Chancellor of Ireland, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State unto His Majesty 
 and one of the Lords of His Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 Sir James Ware having occasions which take him unto Court this line 
 accompanies him be pleased to receive him with the respect due to so 
 Avell deserving a servant and afford your favours for the presenting of 
 him and his suit unto His Majesty. 
 
 1630, May 2, Westminster. William Boswell to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal- Secretary to His Majesty, at his house upon Garlick Hill, 
 London. 
 
 His Majesty hath expressly set down 2 of clock to-morrow after 
 dinner for hearing of Pembroke Hall cause, and myself alone to appear. 
 I hope that His Majesty will do me so much favour as to let it be known 
 that I appear in obedience not affectation of such service. I am at my 
 wits end, especially because too suddenly surprised for such a business. 
 
 1630, May 5. Thomas Alured to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary of State. 
 
 To recommend this enclosed to the Lord Chamberlain the party being 
 both religious and understanding, neither factious nor ambitious. He 
 hath married my only sister. I presume my Lord of Pembroke will 
 upon inquiry find no man more fit or worthy in that kind. The Secre- 
 tary of Wales, which place the Lord Brooke had long and was continually 
 absent, is next the Chief Justice and before the rest of the Council learned 
 and hath a constant fee. I believe the custom of York concurs with 
 that of the Marches, for the Earl of Salisbury some 16 or 17 years agone 
 sent to the Lord Eure then Lord President of Wales to know what place 
 the Counsel learned took there. 
 
 1630, May 8. Petition to King in Council, of James Dawson, 
 Thomas Leigh, John Daniell, and Henry Maudesley, Clerks of the Peace 
 in Ireland. 
 
 1030, May 19. Portsmouth Dock. W. Burrell and Phinees Pett 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Graving the Swiftsure. The river leading to Fareham within a 
 mile of the town is an absolute good and safe place to moor ships and 
 in all respects as convenient and safe a harbour as Chatham. 2,000/. 
 yearly may be saved to the King in moorings and men. 
 
 16.30, May 21. Portsmouth Dock. Wm. Burrell and Phinees Pett 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 A Dutch ship fraughted with masts was east away near Arundel, and 
 part being cast ashore within a manor belonging to one Mrs. Thomp-
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPT3 COMMISSION, 407 
 
 son, she pretendeth a right to the same, but in the Court of Admiralty Cokejkss. 
 they have been adjudged no wreck, and the goods decreed to the pro- 
 prietors. She hath used very insolent words and menacing speeches 
 against any that should come to fetch them away. A good bargain 
 hath been made with the owners by Sir W. Russell for the masts for 
 His Majesty's use. We desire that letters be directed to the said 
 Mrs. Thompson from the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty com- 
 manding her to deliver the said masts for His Majesty's use. The 
 Navy men do complain that they are victualled so uncertainly which 
 hath caused some of the best men to forsake the service, 
 
 1630, May 27. John Fincham to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary of State. 
 
 I cannot get one penny of Sir W m Uvedall nor of Mr. Jay without 
 your honour speak presently and effectually to Sir William himself. For 
 my two years service and 19 months close and cruel imprisonment I 
 never received but 50/., although your honour was pleased to tell me I 
 should have 100/. a year. 1 beseech you move the King to bestow 
 some place upon me about the prince or princess when it shall please 
 God it be born, and that I may be the post and messenger that shall 
 first carry the King's letters unto France and Savoy : it would be a 
 great credit for me both in England and France and thereby I should 
 recover my reputation. 
 
 1G30, June 25. "Note of Priests and Jesuits delivered me the 25th 
 of June " (not Sir J. Coke's writing). 
 
 Extracts Father Mark Crowder, Provincial of Can- "j came into 
 
 terbury. ( England in 
 
 Father Claudius Bennett, Provincial of f February 
 York. J 1629. 
 
 George Gage, a priest of the English College in Rome, with a snipe 
 (snip) in his nose. 
 
 Father Price, alias Jones, President newly chosen of the College of 
 Douay by election of voices of the English, and further had a dispen- 
 sation from the Pope for six months time in England, and afterwards 
 if he did not appear and bring his monies then he should be suspended. 
 Moreover he hath divers legacies given him by Catholics that dieth 
 here in this kingdom, also carryeth a great hand with divers great 
 persons here in this kingdom, whereof if I be privately called I will 
 show who they are. 
 
 Father Captain Rawlins, alias Father Wright, he conveyed a gentle- 
 woman away with a thousand pounds, her name being Elizabeth Lyon, 
 which is in the nunnery at Brussels. 
 
 Father Mayfield, Archdeacon for the County of Lancaster, and as- 
 sistant to the Bishop of Chalcedon. 
 
 Father Doctor Worthtngton, of the house of Douay. He writ the 
 book against the Oath of Allegiance to His Majesty. 
 
 Father Captain Chamberlain, who was confessor to Count Tyller. 
 
 There was a priest executed within the County of Lancaster, his 
 clothes that he had on when he died, and the knife which ripped him 
 up, hangeth in a Chapel within the county for a relic. 
 
 Father Parkinson, he is a priest and keepeth a house for himself with 
 servants about him, as though he were a country farmer. 
 
 There is a house in the parish of St. Giles in the Fields which hath 
 a vault that is thought they use to bury in, the which if you please I 
 will do my endeavour to find it out. 
 
 L 630, June 26. Ropers Best (in Ireland). Bopcr, Viscount Balt- 
 inglass, to Sir J. Coke, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of 
 State.
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 408 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 I have been very unfortunate to have my pensions suspended. Take 
 me into your care by thinking upon some course either to put the ale- 
 house business on foot again, or that I may presently be compounded 
 with for my pensions, for I see no great likely to have a parliament 
 here. 
 
 1630, June f$. " Advice from Ratisbon." Particulars of the arrival 
 at Regensburg of thn Emperor and his Lady Empress with a train of 
 4,000 persons, and subsequently of the Electors of Treves, Cologne, 
 Mayence, Saxony, and Bavaria, and Deputies of the Elector of Bran- 
 denburg. Anticipated resolutions for war against France and the 
 Hollanders, and for somewhat to the Palsgrave for him to live upon. 
 
 163<>, July 5. Sir William Becher. Letter for Dame Agrippina 
 Bingley (for her jointure) of lands in the County of Donegal granted 
 by Sir Ralph Bingley to Sir Nicholas Gifborne, her father. 
 
 To our right trusty and well beloved cousins and councillors the 
 Lord Viscount Ely, Lord Chancellor, and the Earl of Cork, Lord Jus- 
 tices of our kingdom of Ireland and to the rest of our Councillors, there 
 or any Deputy. 
 
 The Lord Treasurer's house. The Lords Committees for Irish 
 Affairs do think fit that Mr. Secretary Coke do move His Majesty to 
 write his letters to the Lords Justices according to this amended copy. 
 
 1630, July 9. Theobalds. Dudley Carleton, Viscount Dorchester, to 
 Mr. Secretary Coke. 
 
 Letters of reprisal granted to the Scottishman against the Ham- 
 burgers suspended to see Avhat justice the Senate will do in the matter 
 complained of. This His Majesty is pleased you should put him in 
 mind of now at his return to London to the end a course may be taken 
 by his command to Sir William Alexander accordingly. The King 
 orders letters to Ireland to be signed by one of the principal Secre- 
 taries. Tomorrow (God willing) I begin my petty progress purposing 
 to fall in again with the King's at Windsor about the 22nd of this 
 present. 
 
 1630, July 12. Dublin. Sir George Shurley to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State in England. 
 
 I understand of your care and endeavour to continue unto me 
 the custody of the Seal of the King's Bench here in Ireland, which 
 next to my service under the King I do most esteem. It being the 
 only perquisite of the place I hold, and I should not think myself worthy 
 to live if I should deserve so great a disgrace to be done to me by my 
 master as to take that from me which all my predecessors have held, 
 and that above 100 years. I have heretofore sent a petition to be pre- 
 sented to the King which I desire you would be pleased now to peruse 
 and cause my son to present. 
 
 1630, Juillet 20. Londres. Philippe Burlamachi a Mons. Mons. 
 Jean Coke. Chevalier, Principal Secretaire d'Etat de Sa Majeste. 
 
 J'envoie mon frere avec les privie sccaux suppliant votre seigneurie 
 tres Illustre d'y vouloir apposer le signet et de prendre en bonne part 
 une petite reconnaissance que je lui envoye pour part des obligations que 
 je lui ai. Le reste demeurant imprime a mon cceur priant cependant 
 l'Eternel que de mal la garde. Monsieur Montague est retourne. 11 
 semble que les francais et Savoyards se sont battus et que les francais 
 ont eu la victoire. Le Roi de Suede a mis pied a terre ct poussc sa 
 victoire. Le Seigneur donne qu'on puisse voir une bonne paix a son 
 honneur et sa gloire.
 
 JIISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 409 
 
 1630, July 21. Aboard His Majesty's Tenth Whelp, Cattewater, coke mss. 
 Basque. Captain Gibbons to Richard Lord Weston, Lord High 
 Treasurer of England, Wallingford House, London. 
 
 Since nry last to your Lordship of taking the Biscay man-of-war 
 which is here with me, I have been at Helford in company with Captain 
 Plumleigh, where we found a French man-of-war with a Brazil man of 
 400 chests of sugar or thereabouts, and was set forth by Sir W. Alexander 
 for Canada, and had only his commission, which was not a sufficient 
 warrant to us, being not taken within the bounds or heights of America, 
 so we seized both man-of war and piece and have brought them under 
 the command of Sir J. Bagg, where we leave them for His Majesty's 
 use. Captain Plumleigh is gone with the convoy of sugar for the 
 Downs. I had kept the sea longer had I not spent my foretopmast and 
 sprung the head of my foremast. My humble suit is that your Lord- 
 ship would be a means unto His Majesty I might have the Biscay man- 
 of-war given me, the value of her being not above SO/, having done so 
 good service since I have been employed, I never received any gratuity. 
 
 1630, July 28. Knightrider Street against Doctors' Commons. 
 William Weston to Sir John Coke, one of the principal Secretaries 
 to His Majesty. 
 
 I received from your hands my Lord Viscount Chaworth's pass with 
 the King's hand to it. The very same night following after 10 of the 
 clock, being the 27th of July 1G30, Sir James Bagg brought me a 
 countermand letter from your hand for the re-delivery of it back again 
 by express command from His Majesty, the which I have done. I 
 therefore humbly desire a letter to my Lord Chaworh that I may be 
 freed for this delivery, which did so much concern his present occasions 
 and my trust he imposed upon me. 
 
 1630, July 29. The Court at Woking. Dudley Carleton, Viscount 
 Dorchester, to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal 
 Secretaries of State. 
 
 The King has signed a letter to the Lord Chancellor of Ireland for 
 delivery of the ship " St. John " of Hamburg. Lord Chaworth's pass 
 and safe conduct will be granted when he hath given satisfaction in some 
 matter of displeasure. I let you know in confidence there will be no 
 further stay of such grants. A French gentleman has been sent by 
 Monsieur, the King's brother, to congratulate the birth of a prince. 
 
 1630, July 30. Canbury. R. Willis to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The passing of the Charter of Huntingdon being committed to a 
 friend of mine he told me there was a necessity to use my Lord of Dor- 
 chester for getting it signed, for that his Lordship had gotten a direction 
 from His Majesty that whosoever else should get the book signed yet 
 he should have a fee of o/. for it. I give you this intimation thereof 
 that the impediment which would make all the grist go to the other's 
 mill might be discoverod and prevented. That single fee which was at 
 first destined to the other I humbly present to your Honour. 
 
 [This letter indorsed by Sir J. Coke with sums (including 51.) which 
 amount to 100/. 13*. 4r/.] 
 
 1630 (or 6?), July, August, and September. Captain Cooper's 
 Journals (of a cruise in the English Channel). His ship not named. 
 
 Conveys the Duke of Lennox to Dieppe : chases a Dunkirk man 
 and gives him a broadside twice ; goes to Stokes Bav ; anchors under 
 St. Helens.
 
 410 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. 1630, August 7. Lewisham. William Lord Hervey to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Concerning Mr. Rastall's matter in Virginia I have done according 
 to your request. The Governor I hope will do his best to give you 
 satisfaction as also to discharge that which his place requireth : matters 
 going through so many trusts and the debtors for the most part being 
 such as they are. 
 
 1630, middle of August.- -" Advice from divers parts beyond the 
 seas." 
 
 Movements of troops. French and Spanish at Carignan and Cassel, 
 the Po betwixt them. Peace between them is likely. Emperor and 
 Electors at Ratisbon will form a great army against the King of Sweden, 
 which the Emperor wishes Tilly to command. Walstein will not give 
 up command of his army without payment. The King of Sweden has 
 ordered days of devotion throughout Pomerania, and has made the 
 Bishop of Halle, Administrator of Magdeburg, where is great joy. The 
 King wins all hearts. 
 
 1630, August 16. Westminster. Edward Nicholas to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I understand by Mr. Fulwood your honour goes away to-morrow 
 morning into Derbyshire. I have addressed these two inclosures to 
 you that they may be signed, the one that Sir James Bagg may quietly 
 enjoy his office at Falmouth without the interruption of Sir W. Killi- 
 grew, the other is to restore to some poor men their small barque which 
 having been taken by the enemy was retaken by Captain Hooke. My 
 Lord Treasurer goes towards Winchester to-morrow and thence to 
 Court on Saturday. 
 
 1630, August 21. Tottenham. Richard Poole to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty at his house at 
 Melbourne, in Derbyshire. 
 
 After your going from Tottenham the maids found your honour's 
 ring on the cupboard head in your chamber. I have hen- inclosed tho 
 bill of the sickness. It hath pleased God to visit the next house to 
 Mr. Jermyn's out of which died a maid servant of the sickness. Mr. 
 Jerniyn, his wife, and child removed after she was churched the same 
 day to his chamber in the Temple. Mrs. Elizabeth and Mrs. Anne 
 remember their duty to your honour and my lady and their love to 
 their brothers and sisters. My humble service to my honourable Lady, 
 Mr. Elwes, Mr. John, Mr. Thomas, and Mistress Mary. 
 
 1630, August 29. The Court at Bramsill (Bramshill). Dudley 
 Carleton, Viscount Dorchester, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I send such news as my last letters bring from abroad, and you shall 
 hear continually from me during your absence. His Majesty and the 
 Queen remove together on Thursday to Windsor, and Monday to 
 London, and so govern themselves as the sickness will give leave ; but 
 neither of them have mind to be far from thence now they have such a 
 tie of their affections fastened at St. James', yet a journey is threatened 
 to Newmarket. 
 
 1630, August 30. Maidstone. Bartholomew Haggett to Sir J. 
 Coke at his house in Garlick Hill, in London. 
 
 A sudden fear upon the increase of the sickness struck my wife into 
 such a terror that I was forced to remove her and my family into the 
 country. My humble thanks for the favour done me in procuring me 
 my patent [for a pension]. I live in Maidstone with my wife's mother; 
 from my house in Drury Lane a message will be sent down.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 411 
 
 1630, September 4. The Convertine, in the Sound, ready to 
 sail. Captain Pluraleigh to Sir John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary 
 to His Majesty at Court. 
 
 How I have spent my time your Honour shall know by a journal. 
 
 The 29th of this month my victuals end. The 28th of August I 
 wafted the London come from Bantam into the Downs and gained this 
 port again the 2nd of September. This very hour I am plying it up 
 for the Lands End to open the passage for the Newfoundland ships: 
 from thence I intend to return hither again for the convoying safely I lis 
 Majesty's sugars and the Tin ships into the Downs. I beseech order 
 what shall be done with the ship. 
 
 1(5.30, September 4. The true Journal of His Majesty's ship the 
 Convertine, from the 15th July till the 4th of September 1630." 
 [It comes down to 19th August only.] 
 
 1630, September 7. Westminster. Edward Nicholas, " For your 
 honour." 
 
 Sir H. Vane, His Majesty's Ambassador in the Low Countries, has 
 made a proposition of truce between the States and the Spaniards, 
 which is better entertained by the Arminians than the Contra Remon- 
 strants and the English Colonels and Captains. The King of Sweden 
 prospers; it is apprehended by the Imperialists that Walstein, who is 
 discontented, will join him. The term is put otf to Allhallowtide. Sir 
 Francis Cottington hath written for the ships that transported him to 
 be sent to Cadiz, the Convertine and Tenth Wltelp, victualled to 
 go there. I beseech the Lord of Heaven to direct His Majesty's heart 
 in this great business. No ground for the report that the Lord Trea- 
 surer was in His Majesty's disfavour. Mr. Burrell the elder, going 
 into Lincolnshire about his design of inning the fens there, died of a 
 fever. I pray God the King's service in the Navy do not miss him. 
 My Lord Conway hath lost his daughter, Lady Smith. 
 
 1630, September 16. Chatwall. Thomas Garland to Anne Duffield 
 at Hilton. 
 
 Dear sister in Christ, I promised you if you did send mo any book 
 I would (1) diligently read it, (2) consider it, (3) let you understand 
 my judgment concerning it, (4) send it you safe back again. In which 
 of these have I failed ? You promised me that not a line of what I 
 would vouchsafe to write to you should suffer the least detriment but 
 should be sent back. I well remember I did not write much ; but little 
 as it was could I ever get it again, cither by my own entreaty or others ; 
 for three sheets which I writ I have twenty again. I have store of 
 scorns and taunts, besides as many frivolous digressions in praise of the 
 Romish religion with opprobrious speeches against us. What reason 
 then have you to desire again this idle bundle of scribbled paper, it 
 being without the compass of my promise. One thing 1 desire yon to 
 take notice of. That Reverend learned Bishop whom you call lying 
 Jewell did not afford me all my help in that pamphlet I sent you. No, 
 no, I had other sufficient authorities. Let my charitable answerer 
 examine Peter l)u Moulin's Buckler of Faith, and Usher's answer to 
 a .Jesuit in Ireland. Of your book I was more careful than you 
 perhaps think, and you shall receive it again with interest. 
 
 1630, September 26. Yarmouth. Dawtry Cooper to the Lords 
 Commissioners for the Admiralty and His Majesty's Royal Navy. 
 
 Describes capture of a Dunkirker by the Man/rose (('apt. Sydenham) 
 and chase of another, interrupted by a Hollander. This woful accident 
 befel His Majesty's pinnace the Seventh Whelp. My gunner's mate, not
 
 412 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 knowing what combustion we might have with that Hollander, hasting 
 to lade that piece again, came carelessly down into the powder-room to 
 fetch a cartridge and took a candle without a lanthorn and therewith 
 set fire of all and blew up the ship, which in an instant sunk downright; 
 and with her I lost 48 as able seamen and officers as ever sailed in her, 
 of which sad number there was a son and a nephew of my own who 
 were right dear to me, and such as woidd have proved apt for His 
 Majesty's service ; but viewing they are lost therein and not otherwise, 
 it hath taken off a great part of my grief for their loss, knowing they 
 must have died and not in a better cause except martyrs. Here are 12 
 of us yet living, but I fear they cannot all live. I was taken up out 
 of the sea, as I was prepared to fight without a doublet to my back, a 
 hat to my head, or a shoe to niy foot, which these townsmen do so com- 
 miserate that they have taken order to clothe me, to horse me, and to 
 furnish me fit to wait on your Lordships. 
 
 1630, September 29. Edmonton. Thomas Alured to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 On behalf of the Council of the Marches I entreat your favour to move 
 the Lord Treasurer to vouchsafe his direction in the matter. If the 
 monies be not paid as is accustomed, it will be no small prejudice to the 
 new Lord President for the future, and will occasion the dissolution of 
 that house for the present. 
 
 (1630, September, .) Sir Francis Coke. (No address.) 
 Eight Honourable, I am sorry that my occasions draw me towards 
 Chesterfield to-morrow for the musters, there being none to join Sir 
 Peter Fretchville but myself, and we must needs be two; but God 
 willing I will be at home again upon Saturday at the furthest, and the 
 next day wait on you at Melburne. I suppose that at this time 
 (your occasions drawing you away so soon) that there can be but a pre- 
 paration for the matter that must in further time be effected, and I do 
 assure myself that my cousin Gresley, my Lady Burdett's mother, 
 will always do her best endeavour to forward it. I pray you be wary in 
 your articles betwixt Sir "William Knyveton and you, for he holdeth but 
 by an extent of the lands of Damport, and there are so many questions 
 in such a holding that there may be great danger without good looking 
 to, and the grandfather of this youth is a very perverse man. 
 
 1630, October 5. Chatham. Sir Gylford Slyngisbie to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Difficulties from contradictions in the matter relating to victuals 
 between Wrothesley and Wright. Be pleased to move the Lords Com- 
 missioners for a captain's place for my son in the ships now preparing 
 for sea. 
 
 1630, October 11. Portsmouth. Edward Boat to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Mr. Burrell and Capt. Pett gave us warrant to place wooden claves for 
 the mooring of the five great ships. But after Mr. Burrell was dead we 
 received a letter from Sir Thomas Aylesbury forbidding the proceeding 
 therein. Concerning worm that hath appeared upon the Triumph 
 and some other ships, I never heard, nor on observation found, that 
 such worms should arise from these northern parts. Biding but six 
 weeks in the Garland in the same bay, but 10 leagues from the Isle 
 of Re, they were wonderfully eaten in their lower works with the like 
 worm : comparing that with six months of their ships riding at St. 
 Martins in the same bay, may seem very probable that she and "the rest 
 brought them from thence. My son Augustine Boat seeks your Honour's 
 favour in establishing him in a purser's place, which he hath bought of 
 the purser of the Siviftsure.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 413 
 
 1630, October 13. The Court. Draft by Sir Jobn Coke of a letter 
 from the Commissioners of the Admiralty to the Officers of the Navy. 
 
 His Majesty hath thought fit for your better strengthening in the 
 government of his Navy to join with you his servant Sir Kenelin Digby, 
 a gentleman of worth and well acquainted with the seas. How sensible 
 we have been heretofore of the prejudice done both to the service and 
 yourselves by many differences and questions raised amongst you, we 
 have upon your own complaining thereof not forborne to let you know 
 by former letters. We do admonish and entreat you that with united 
 councils and endeavours you will reform all such abuses and disorders as 
 have crept into any part of the service. 
 
 1030, October 14. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty at his house in Garlick Hyth, 
 London. 
 
 My Lord of Newcastle proceeding in Nottinghamshire as he did in 
 Derbyshire, amongst others there, my son William was questioned, where 
 he answered for himself, that he had but a small estate, and that at the 
 time of the Coronation he was not in commission of the peace, and a 
 great part of his now estate accrued unto him within these two years by 
 the marriage of his Avife. His Lordship and the rest of the Commis- 
 sioners have set him down 251. His Lordship will write to the Council 
 not only this bis answer but also will make known to them my pains in 
 this service. I am also to move you at my good neighbour's and 
 friend's request, which is Mr. Edward Bevell, of Brookhill, that you 
 would use your endeavour to keep him from being Sheriff. There is 
 two of the Morewoods, especially the elder, both fit men for that place, 
 and divers others. 
 
 1630, October 14. Holborn. Justice William Jones to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries. 
 
 I have according to your honour's directions diligently read and 
 perused the treatise concerning the Londoners Plantation in Ulster 
 exquisitely and with great judgment compiled by your honour. I can 
 add nothing thereunto neither (as 1 think) can any man else. I make 
 bold to leave the treatise behind me to be delivered to your honour. 
 
 1630, October 14. London. Sir Henry Mervyn to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Secretary of State. 
 
 1 am gone to Rochester, for that the papers of my Journal are on 
 board, which Iwill cause to be fair written fit for your honour's perusal 
 and attend you with them. 
 
 1630, October 16. John Mason to Viscount Dorchester, Principal 
 Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 The troop of horse entered into pay the 23rd May 1627 under the 
 command of the Earl of Newport. His Lordship by an account framed 
 since the return from the Isle of Key, reckoned for the whole troop 
 until 8th August, and upon the foot of that account claimed 600/. and 
 upwards. 1 paid the money claimed by his Lordship for himself and 
 them. The demands of Sir William Ewryn and the troopers under the 
 command of Sir W. Cunningham, Knight, deceased, from the said Earl 
 of Newport is for 5 weeks pay due to them before the division of the 
 troop. 1 know no better way to clear the controversy than by taking 
 the oaths of such of the claimers as are here present. 197/. being 
 half a Colonel's pay for vacation time betwixt the death of his Lordship's 
 brother, Sir Charles Rich, and the date of his Lordship's commission to 
 be Colonel of that Regiment, when the fleet went to Rochelle is by 
 command from His Majesty stopped in my hands to satisfy the claims 
 of the said troopers.
 
 414 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1630, October 18. Tewkesbury. Thomas Vaughan to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Please you to call to mind a suit made by me for your old servant 
 Truthgrow Martin that if we could find a minister that should affect 
 her and were so qualified that in preferring him God might be glorified 
 and his Church edified you would then move the Lord Keeper in his 
 behalf. The man is Edw. Hutchins, a M. of Arts, and the place the 
 Vicarage of Turly. 
 
 1630, October 18. Ledbury. Doctor John Hoskins to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Edw. Hutchins a Master of Arts and a grave man preached in 
 my charge at Ledbury while I was absent. I am told by such as I 
 trust that he is an orthodox divine regular and .settled in his conversa- 
 tion. You shall never find that I will abuse your affection towards me 
 especially when my misinformation may turn to the prejudice of God's 
 church and religion. 
 
 1630, October 20. Westminster. Edward Nicholas to Sir .1. Coke 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty at Tottenham. 
 
 I came last night from Court for that my Lord Treasurer bid me 
 attend yesterday, but their Lordships met not at all for that the King 
 and Queen went to Imber-court as soon as they had dined to a banquet 
 and entertainment prepared there for them by my Lord of Dorchester. 
 I send the enclosed precedent of a presentation to be altered only as 
 the occasion of title, death or resignation, may offer, and draft of a 
 warrant to the Officers of the JNavy for mooring the ships at 
 Portsmouth. 
 
 1630, October 27. London. John Skinner to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Secretary of State. 
 
 I was at Hampton Court to procure the Burghmaster of Embden's 
 address to His Majesty, and this mornirg the Merchants Adventurers 
 my masters hold a general court to hear the same Burghmaster. 
 
 1630, October 29. Sir Francis Coke to Sir J. Coke, at his house 
 in Garlick Hill in London. 
 
 To keep my loving neighbour and friend Edw. Re veil of Brookhill 
 from being Sheriff this year, he hath not a convenient house in this 
 shire but is building one, which you know will empty his purse. I writ 
 you of four names fit to be Sheriffs. 
 
 1630, October 30. London, William Ashwell to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, and Secretary of State to His Majesty of England. 
 
 My service waiteth upon you. You may please to understand I have 
 inquired concerning Sir Henry Mervyn's stay in the Sound, which, as 
 I can learn by shippers or merchants, was not above three days, and 
 from thence put to guard or secure the north coast of England. The 
 Komudoes (?) Company are very ancient as they report themselves, 
 some report 200 of years, others more. From Hamburg no news. 
 From the diet the princes have writ to the King of Denmark and to the 
 City to cease arms, and demolish the eight forts which disquiet the river 
 of Elbe, notwithstanding the King of Denmark proceeds in his former 
 courses stopping and levying custom at them, and all Hollanders may 
 pass to and again. I fear it will be troublesome for merchants there 
 unless these differences be reconciled. 
 
 1630, October 30. "Account for Sea Services." A Report in Sir J. 
 Coke's writing of an inquiry into the Navy by himself and one or more 
 other Commissioners.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTG COMMISSION 415 
 
 By our former account your Majesty hath understood in what readi- Coke mss. 
 ness your ships and stores are for any service the next spring. The 
 other part remaineth, what ships and what commanders have been em- 
 ployed this current year, and what service hath been done. The move- 
 ments of Sir Henry Mervyn as Admiral of the Narrow Seas related and 
 commented on .sharply. Kecommends inquiry as to his alleged patent. 
 Describes qualities requisite in that office and change in the officer. 
 Many offices performed by deputy. Commissioners of the Navy live 
 far apart and do not meet. The house at Chatham occupied by the 
 Comptroller with his family. They differ about the confines and the 
 pre-eminences of their offices, and by their continual contestations let 
 fall their authority and reputation. 
 
 1630, October . Derby. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary unto His Majesty. 
 
 Both my Lord of Newcastle and the rest of us that were Commis- 
 sioners in Derbyshire touching the fines of those that did not appear 
 at the Coronation for knighthood have taken great care of His Majesty's 
 service therein, and have had an answerable success, we having agreed 
 for a good sum in our small county. Christopher Fulwood, eldest 
 son of Sir George, showed that his father was alive in the last year of 
 King James, and that he had no estate at all at that time, but we per- 
 suaded him, for example to the rest, to publicly say he would pay 25/., 
 and his precedent did much good to those that followed him, but it was 
 agreed upon by us that Mr. Fulwood should not lose the benefit of th.it 
 which he then offered for his own discharge, if Mr. Attorney General 
 should hold him a man not fit to be charged. 
 
 1G30, November 2. London. Matthew De Quester to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State unto His Majesty. 
 
 Last night I received these letters inclosed from Mr. G. Tucker with 
 a bag wherein are multitude of letters, and that by one Bailey, a tilboat 
 master. Presently after came Mr. Culmer with an outcry for his letters. 
 At my Lord Viscount Dorchester's I found .Mr. Culmer s man who had 
 caused Mi - . Nicholas, my Lord's Secretary, to inquire after these letters 
 saying there was a box with a wedding ring amongst his letters. I do 
 now send this bearer express with the great bag sealed up as it came 
 yesternight late to my hands. 1 refer and leave all unto your honour's 
 good pleasure. 
 
 1030, November 3. Annesley. Viscount Chaworth to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to I lis Majesty. 
 
 1 have received my pass with your letter. 1 will understand vour 
 letter literally, as 1 pray you to interpret mine which doth profess to 
 you that you have my heart and uttermost to command wheresoever I 
 am. I have in gratitude to you. sir, made what haste might well be to 
 provide you of a gelding which 1 had from a friend and a gent, that I 
 might not run the hazard of a market. I have not so much experience 
 of him as to commend him for other than his straight and easy foinir 
 his not being unhandsome and a good feeder, which makes me hope he 
 may prove in your hands such as I wish him. I shall wait on vou. sir. 
 long before my season to cross the seas. When I am a traveller 1 will 
 hold intelligence with none but you and diligently with you. 
 
 1630, November 6. John Yernev. 
 
 Draft petition (revised by Sir .1. Coke) relating to a settlement of'the 
 perplexed affairs of Richard Coffcrd and his wife, to which the King's 
 assent is asked.
 
 416 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1630, November 8. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke, Principal 
 
 Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I am earnestly moved by this bearer, Mr. Fisher, to request your 
 furtherance for him that you have any fit place for him. He hath 
 been a tradesman and well experienced in accounts and keeping books 
 of expenses or otherwise. 
 
 1630, November 8. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke. 
 
 My cousin, Bonington lying in prison, hath intreated me to move 
 you to be a means that Doctor Duck give my cousin's children their 
 legacies given them by their grandmother the Lady Booth. 
 
 1630, November 9. Sir Thomas Phillips. 
 
 Memorial to the King setting forth that the London Plantation in 
 Ulster proves now through their misplanting the danger of the whole 
 kingdom. Instead of 30,000 British in the escheated counties there 
 are not 7,000. If the Irish Begiment abroad consisting of the prin- 
 cipal heads of the ancient Northern displanted Lords have a mind to 
 return how easy is it for them assisted by their allies of the Scottish 
 Islands to prevail. 
 
 1630, November 9. Serjeant's Inn, Fleet Street. Sir George Crokc 
 to Viscount Conway, Lord President of the Council. 
 
 Particulars of the trial by him of Frances Cox convicted of bigamy 
 and sentenced by him to be hanged, but reprieved at the solicitation of 
 the son of her first husband, and her last husband, and divers others at 
 Warwick Assizes. 
 
 1630, November 10. Baggrave. Thomas Burrye to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I have been sick, my first journey abroad shall be to Sir E. Hartopp's, 
 at which time your honour shall receive satisfaction. I have sent your 
 rent for the township by Mr. Browne, the rent for the small closings 
 and the milne rent will be paid. 
 
 1630, November 11. Langley. Edward, Viscount Conway, to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of 
 
 State. 
 
 This bearer, Thomas Cox, comes a humble suitor to save his mother 
 from a shameful death to which she is adjudged for having two hus- 
 bands. They are my neighbours in Warwickshire, and the woman ever 
 of "-ood reputation. Judge Croke sent me this inclosed. Since the 
 Judges have reprieved her purposely to give her time to seek for grace 
 from a o-racious master I do beseech you to be a means to move for it. 
 And because commonly after the assizes there are pardons passed of 
 course for those that are condemned for offences not of the highest 
 nature you may be pleased to inquire of Mr. Attorney whether there 
 be now any such to be passed. If there be, that will be the most easy 
 way to get her name put in amongst the rest. If not, I do intreat you 
 to move His Majesty in it. 
 
 1630 November 11. Theobalds. William Cecil, Earl of Salisbury, 
 K.G., to Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 It being three years since the grant of my letter to Carey, and having 
 heard nothing all this time of the presentment or success of it, I con- 
 ceived it a thing given over. Yet I never intended that my later grants 
 should prejudice the former. I have renewed the same expressly in 
 his behalf by letter nominating him again to the College for the place 
 now void which will effect your desire and mine.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 417 
 
 1630, November 13. Exeter, Upon the way towards London. Sir CoKE MSS - 
 James Bagg to Sir J. Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal 
 Secretaries at Court. 
 
 For His Majesty's special service. At last I have found Captain 
 Quasch and his fleet who took the St. George, the Dunkirk, out of 
 Arme at Falmouth, where I have stayed the St. George. They endea- 
 voured in the night to dispossess my officers ; they will be busy with 
 their Ambassador. I must refer the Dutch Captain's boldness to some 
 other check than the stay of the ship. 
 
 1630, November 14. Aboard His Majesty's ship the Mary Rose 
 in Margaret lload. Captain Francis Sydenham to the Lords Commis- 
 sioners of the Admiralty. 
 
 The order to go to the Low Countries to bring Sir Hcyiry Vane was 
 not received. So soon as the wind and weather will give me leave I will 
 ply to the Downs. News by prisoners that there is 12 sails of Dunkirkers 
 gone out on Saturday last was a sennight, and there is 13 sails more in 
 the Channel. 
 
 1630, November 18. Ticknall. John Cross to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 For a ground in Melbourne Park, which Wilson men did rent the 
 last year: would give as much as any man for I had rather be your 
 tenant than any man's else in this kingdom. I have spoken with Mr. 
 Ward, and your servant, Francis Astle. 
 
 1630, November 18. Draft warrant for John Fincham to apprehend 
 Doctor Richard Smith, the pretended Bishop of Chalcedou, who 
 remaineth secretly in and about the City of London, and to lock up all 
 the doors of the house in which he shall be taken. 
 
 1630, November 24. The Court at Whitehall. P. Weston, Lord 
 Treasurer, The Earl of Lindsey, and Viscount Dorchester, Secretary of 
 State, Commissioners of the Navy, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary of State to His Majesty. 
 
 Pray you (calling to you for assistant Sir Kenelm Digby) to take into 
 due consideration and examination the present state of His Majesty's 
 forts at Milton and Tilbury near Gravesend, what you conceive fit to 
 be bestowed thereon for necessary reparation : to view and consider the 
 patents granted to the Captains of the said Forts, the motives that 
 induced the granting of them, and whether they were not granted in 
 trust for the use of others and to examine the sufficiency of the said 
 Commanders to perform the duty of those places. 
 
 1630, November 26. Lord Goring to Sir John Coke, Principal 
 Secretary to LI is Majesty. 
 
 I never could get sight of those papers, they have ever walked in the 
 dark and have no such clear dealing. If it may please His Majesty to 
 command Mr. Tyrwhit to cause Mr. Hanmer, the reviver and prosecutor 
 of this new office, to produce those first papers, and give him and me a 
 day of hearing either before his own sacred self or whom else he please, 
 then shall truth best appear. Might I be so blest as to have his 
 gracious Majesty the sole judge at once, it would be a happy expedition 
 indeed, for ihat clear judgment and justice of his would soon decide the 
 difference between us. Delay is all we fear, it breeds such disturbance 
 in that court as will not be easily rectified again, if not timely prevented 
 before the cry be up. 
 
 1630, November 26. London. Endorsed by Sir .1. Coke, " My letter 
 to the Lord President of the North : Lord Falconbridge." 
 
 It is true that a petition was presented to His Majesty concerning 
 some question arising upon a suit depending before your Lordship, but 
 U 24963. D i)
 
 418 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS, no ^ p ursue( j w ith any heart. Till your coming nothing will be done 
 upon it. I hope there will be no cause of any public debate or contes- 
 tation, but you may here reap the full fruit of your care and good success 
 in the service you have in hand. My opinion is that your nobleness in 
 this remission will add to your honour. 
 
 (Signed) J. Right. 
 
 [Endorsed upon a copy of a case for Counsel's opinion, on the rights 
 of presentation under a lease for 21 years, by a recusant convict who has 
 died within the term, of his son who is not conformable, and of the 
 Univerities, with opinion of Ro. Heath. John Bramston. 
 
 W. Hakewill. Raphe Whitfelde.] 
 
 1630, November 28. Durham House. Thomas, Lord Keeper Coventry, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 I have received a summons for meeting at Court to-morrow afternoon, 
 for rating the prices of wines for the year to come. I desire to hear 
 from you what you have been certified or can advertise me therein to 
 make me help touching that particular. 
 
 1630, November 28. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State at Court. 
 
 The enclosed is recommended by Mr. Devie, one of His Majesty's 
 Agents to this King. If during my abode here, which may be a year, 
 your honour may have occasion to use me I will be at your command. 
 The French cry out against us daily for not permitting them free trade 
 for their cards ; wherein they conceive the breach of the treaty so will 
 hinder the free bringing into France of our drapery, as I gave my Lord 
 of Dorchester to understand by a memorial before my departure. 
 
 1630, November 29. Torbay. Captain Plumleigh to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Secretary of State, and one of the Commissioners for [lis 
 Majesty's Navy and Admiralty, at Whitehall. 
 
 Journal from 13 to 18 from Portsmouth to Torbay, where he is 
 detained from proceeding to Spain by [S.W. wind, rain and flaws, and 
 pyrries from the hills. The Dunkirkers have reigned these last two 
 months on the Western Coast, they are all gone up the Channel. 
 
 1630, November 29. The Court at Whitehall. Dudley Carleton, 
 Viscount Dorchester, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to 
 His Majesty. 
 
 Finding myself unable to wait upon you at the Tower through a 
 double indisposition of the gout and gravel, I must prevent your trouble 
 in expecting me tomorrow. I am now going home to seek some ease. 
 
 1630, November 30. Receipt of Sir J. Coke's fee out the Exchequer 
 for 3 quarters ended at Midsummer, 75/. 
 
 1630, December 6. Sir Gylford Slyngisbie to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 If you command the Clerk of the Check at Deptford to give you an 
 account who are upon the ordinary, you will find a great deal of 
 unnecessary charge continues. If provisions taken up at London, such 
 as hemp, tar, timber, plank and deals, be presently sent to Chatham, 
 where it is to be used instead of first to Deptford, it would save a great 
 deal. Cordage kept a year is better than new. 
 
 1630, December 6. Westminster. Sir Robert Pye to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Sir Edward Leech expounded the buying of Ovcrhaddon at 1,220/., 
 and desired a price of the Wynland ; he said he had been with you but 
 you relinquish it.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 419 
 
 1630, December 13. Jo. Fincham to Sir J. Coke, Knight, and 
 Principal Secretary of State. 
 
 At Brainforde (Brentford) I saw his man with two spare horses. I 
 followed him into Fleet Street and he rid into Salisbury Court. I rid 
 on and set up my horse at the Belle Sauvage. I returned into Salisbury 
 Court, and going to the waterside I looked into the Ambassador's stables, 
 where 1 saw the three horses. In Fleet Street about the court I 
 remained in a chamber of purpose. On Friday morn they went away 
 and I am assured of the place where he will keep his Christmas in 
 Dorsetshire, where, if it please God, I will be sure of him and bring 
 you him up for a new year's gift. I beseech you to speak earnestly to 
 Sir \Y. Udall to pay me my bill, for 1 intend to ride after and hope to 
 meet him in Salisbury. I am resolved not to trouble your honour any 
 more until I bring this man unto you, and then I will prostrate 
 myself, my service, and endeavours at your feet. 
 
 1630, December 14. Certificate of 8 persons (signatures and marks) 
 as to failure 8 or 9 years since of the first engine for taking up of 
 gravel and sand out of the river of Thames, being weak and imperfect 
 in the main frame. 
 
 16.30, December 14. Blackfriars. Thomas Alured to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The humble desire of that Council (Judges in the Marches) that the 
 other may make his submission for the remission of his fine and eon- 
 tempt, otherwise it may occassion an insultation in him and a contempt 
 and neglect in others in those parts. 
 
 Indorsement by Sir J. Coke of draft letters for a patent to be granted 
 to the Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery, Lord Chamberlain, of the 
 ollice of Keeper of the Forests and Chases of Ponsett and Buckl olt. 
 
 16.30, December lo. On board H.M. Pink the Fortune, at Queen- 
 borough. Thomas Austin to Sir J. Coke, Knight, one of the Principal 
 Secretaries of State, and one of Her Majesty's Commissioners for the 
 Admiralty, at his house upon Garliek Hill. 
 
 The Sprat men told me that there is between Harwich and the Spits 
 certain Dunkirk sloops that hath taken small vessels, and there are in 
 the river of Thames small boats that do rob our hoys as they go to and 
 fro from London. 
 
 1630, December 18, stilo vet, His Majesty's ship the Convcrtine, 
 in Cadiz bay. Captain Richard Plumleigh to Sir J. Coke, Knight, 
 Secretary of State, and one of the Commissioners for His Majesty's 
 Navy and Admiralty at Whitehall. 
 
 The 1st December we set sail from Plymouth, and the 17th, which 
 wa< yesterday, we arrived safely in the Bay of Cadiz, where we were 
 welcome and well received, t tie Spaniards using us with all civility and 
 respect. The Governor sent his Alferez on board me to assure me of 
 all fair usage, and for my flag he left it wholly to myself in what sort 
 1 would salute the King his master, which 1 lowered a little and so 
 hoisted again and gave them 1.3 pieces of ordnance, to which 1 received 
 the like answer, and upon every bulwark and fort a standard of Spain 
 was set out. The Hollander hath surprised the fleet of Nova Hispania : 
 the Armada for Fermanbuck (Pernambuco) is almost ready at Lisbon , 
 this last week the Meet of the Terra Firma arrived at St. Lucar with 
 eleven millions of ducats. The Tenth Whelp sprang a leak within 
 ten leagues of the coast, and is bore up again for England. 
 
 d n 2
 
 420 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1630, December 19. Ticknall. Gilbert Ward to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Accounts by which appear divers arrears yet uncollected. A day 
 appointed for the arrears to be brought in. For the Lammas grounds 
 cast open we conceive a third part to be abated. 
 
 1630, December 23. York. Lord Wentworth, Lord President of 
 the North. [No address.] 
 
 I writ formerly unto you to desire a copy of a petition lately preferred 
 to His Majesty against me by the Lord Falconbridge ; secret as it is 
 made to me, that Lord and his agents make it no secret to others. They 
 publish it amongst their confidants how it contains a direct charge of 
 injustice upon myself in sundry particulars, brag of the advantages 
 Avhich are against me; carry themselves with personal neglect and 
 disregard towards me, nay towards the Government. These are cases 
 of much consequence to the State, much tenderness towards me, and 
 therefore it is my comfort I fall into the hands of so wise a man and so 
 good a friend as yourself. I shall be sure to demand public oyer of the 
 handwriting against me. I most earnestly again desire a copy may be 
 sent me down ; be pleased to move His Majesty in my behalf for it. I 
 am able to bear any reproof better than to be accused as a faithless 
 minister in those trusts which His Majesty shall vouchsafe betwixt him 
 and his people. 
 
 1630, December 24. John Griffith to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I have this summer at my own charge found two wardships for His 
 Majesty, which otherwise had been lost. I beg only his Royal support 
 without charge to His Majesty. 
 
 1630, December 29. Blackfriars. Thomas Alured to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Two places usually conferred by the Lord President on his servants 
 in the Court of the Marches have now passed the King's hand to one 
 Mr. Wigmore, the late Duke's servant. This will prove disgraceful 
 and discontenting to the future President, besides the inconveniency to 
 that Court and the justice of it. 
 
 1630, December 30. Hamburg. Sir Robert Anstruther to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretory of State and of His Majesty's most 
 honourable Privy Council. 
 
 My Secretary's arrival at Court will have informed you of every 
 passage in the course of my employment at the Diet and of any other 
 particulars which during my abode at Ratisbon I could observe. It 
 hath pleased God, though not without danger, to bring me safe hither 
 Avhere my Lord of Dorchester's commands by Serjeant Major Borth- 
 wick hath found me. I have taken the boldness to kiss your hands 
 with these few lines, the changing of the wind doth now call him on 
 shipboard. Be assured that my affectionate desire of serving your 
 honour doth increase daily by the continuance of your favours, which 
 I find so constant as I must needs acknowledge myself now and ever 
 tied to remain your honour's most humble servant at command. 
 
 1630, December 31. Charing Cross. George Verney to Sir J. Coke 
 Knight. 
 
 A present being sent out of the country of Essex I tender you the 
 same: by reason of my master's occasions, myself being debarred to 
 tender my service in person. I crave your favourable despatch con- 
 cerning the fellowship in Jesus College. If the letter from His Majesty 
 may be procured, Mr. May, your servant, may deliver the same to my 
 servant at my lodging. If your honour before His Majesty's going to 
 Newmarket obtain a reference unto poor Cosford's petition, it will 
 much avail the prosecution of his suit.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 421 
 
 1630, December. Case stated of a Patent granted in 1619, to 
 Gilbert, for sole making of an engine for 21 years, and assigned bv 
 him for valuable consideration to Gibson ; then in 1629 Gilbert, 
 alleging that the Patent is lost, offers to surrender it and procures the 
 inrolment to be vacated without the consent of Gibson. Is the 
 surrender and vacating valid ? 
 
 Opinions thereon, of Sir John Bankes, Attorney- General, and John 
 Glanville. 
 
 1630. Thomas Preston, Portcullis (Herald), to Viscount Dorchester, 
 Principal Secretary of State. 
 
 " Relation of the reception in Ireland of the news of the prince's birth, 
 27th June, 1630." 
 
 Full particulars of his mission loth June, arrived at Dublin 27th 
 dune. Reception in Council 29th June. Service of Thanksgiving in 
 Christ Church 15th July, when the Primate Doctor Usher preached, 
 and the same day a dinner in the great Hall. The Lords Justices 
 gave him 100, and my Lord Chancellor over and above 10 and one 
 horse. 
 
 1630. Monsieur Augier's Extraord: 
 
 Indorsed " Upon this bill my Lord Viscount Dorchester gave allow- 
 ance of 200 at Beaulieu the 21st August 1630." 
 
 Etat des depenses extraordinaires quej'ai faites pour le service du 
 Roi depuis le l{\ de Mai 1629 que je suis parti de Londres pour venir 
 en France jusqu' au premier d'Aout de Fannee ensuivante 1630 que 
 je me trouve a St. Jean de Morienne pour le meme service de sa 
 Majeste. 
 
 ^r * w "Jp vfc ~)f- 
 
 pour moil 
 
 En ports de lettres et autres menus frais extraordinaires 
 qui paraissent jiu detail de mes comptes durant huit 
 mois et plus avant mon partement de Paris pour Troves - 
 
 Pour neuf jours le louage d'un cheval 
 homme a trois shillings et demi par jour. 
 
 Achete un cheval pour mon homme a Troyes 16 16s. 
 seize livres seize shillings sterlings. 
 
 Donne aux serviteurs et servantes du Sieur Belin 
 Medeciu ehez lequelj'ai logo a Troyes 
 
 Donne aux serviteurs et servantes du Sieur Gautier 
 Auditeur des comptes chez lequelj'ai loge a Dijon 
 
 w # # * * 
 
 Achete un lit de camp ;i Lyon quatorze livres et demi 
 sterlings ------- 
 
 Achete un cheval a Lyon pour porter mon lit - 
 
 ***** 
 
 Donne aux serviteurs et servantes du Sieur de la 
 Sabliere procureur chez lequelj'ai loge a Lyon 
 
 Pour l'i'change de cent livres sterlings prises chez 
 Messieurs Burlamachi et Cenarai a Lyon le 8 Mai 1630 
 l;i sonnne de cinq livres sterlings ... 
 
 Ln depense de mes drux ehcvaux d'extraordinaire 
 depuis Lyon a Grenoble el du sejour de cinq jours a Lyoi; 
 a 6 shillings 6 deniers par jour - 
 
 # * # 
 
 
 
 d. 
 
 12 6 
 
 
 
 16 
 
 
 
 
 
 13 
 
 
 
 * 
 
 
 
 14 
 
 10 
 
 
 
 20 
 
 
 
 
 
 * 
 
 
 
 () 16 () 
 
 5 
 
 2
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 7 10 
 
 
 
 2 16 
 
 * 
 
 
 
 15 
 
 
 
 1 10 
 
 
 
 422 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Bailie aux serviteurs et servautes do Monsieur Pasqual s. d. 
 
 Maitre des Comptes chez lequel j'ai loge a Grenoble - 16 
 
 Paye a Conflars. 
 
 Change un de rnes chevaux contre un mulet rendu sept 
 l'vres dix shillings ..... 
 
 Paye au Mouslieur depuisle 2 e Juin jusqu'au 9 e que j'en 
 uis parti ...... 
 
 ***** 
 
 Achete un cheval de bat pour faire porter des vivres a 
 
 la suite de l'armee - 
 
 Achete deux paniers avec les sangles - - - 
 
 Paye (a Lyon) depuis le 18 e jusqu'au 28 e Juin que 
 
 je suis arrive a Grenoble - - - - -600 
 
 Pour la depense de mes trois chevaux d'extraordinaire 
 depuis le 28 e Juin jusqu'au 5 e Juillett que je suis arrive 
 
 a, St. Jean de Morienne - - - - -44 
 
 ****** 
 
 Un muletier que j'ai pris de surcroit pour la conduite 
 de mes hardes, les ferrures des chevaux, raccout rages 
 d'harnais et la cherte immense des vivres, en la Tarentaise 
 et Morienne m'ont coute d'extraordinaire - - 35 15 6 
 
 Monte le total de ma depense extraordinaire jusqu' a. 
 ee jourd'hui premier jour d'Aofit 1630, que j'ai arret e et 
 soussigne le present compte a, S fc Jean de Morienne a la 
 sommede - - - - - - 227 10 6 
 
 AuGIER. 
 
 1G30 ? Navy paper. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " His Majesty's ships 
 in employment, or in the harbour." 
 
 A note of the names of such of His Majesty's ships and vessels as 
 are now at sea, where they are employed and for what time ordered 
 to be victualled and continued abroad. 
 
 Under Sir Henry Mervyn, Admiral of the Narrow Seas. (7 vessels.) 
 ****** 
 
 Under Sir Thomas Button, on the Coast of Ireland. (2 vessels.) 
 
 W TP *?P "A" 'K TP 
 
 Fortune Pink is employed for guard of the River of Thames. 
 
 (1630 ?) A paper endorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Mr. Denzil Holies ". 
 
 Most gracious Sovereign, your Majesty be pleased to vouchsafe leave 
 to your most afflicted suppliant again to cast himself at your royal 
 feet, there still to implore your Majesty's Grace and favour, for he is 
 no longer able to bear the weight either of your Majesty's displeasure 
 or of his own grief; and he languisheth under it so much the more by 
 how much he hath been heretofore comforted with the sweet influence 
 of your Majesty's goodness to him, and gracious acceptation of him. 
 His younger years were blessed with his attendances upon your 
 princely person, and it was the height of his ambition to end his days 
 in your service, nor did he ever willingly entertain the least thought 
 which might move your Majesty to cast him down from that pitch into 
 this precipice of your indignation, but in anything he may have failed, 
 it hath been through misfortune, and the error of his judgment. Imitate 
 the Dread Sovereign the God of Heaven, whose image you bear here 
 upon earth, both in yourself in regard to your royal excellencies and in
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 423 
 
 relation to us your loyal and obedient subjects. He is best pleased with 
 the sacrifice of a sorrowful heart, and accepts only that person who 
 mourns because he hath offended Him ; and such a sacrifice do I here 
 offer myself unto your Majesty, a heart burdened with the sense of your 
 Majesty's displeasure, prostrate at your royal feet with all humble 
 submission waiting till your Majesty will reach out the golden sceptre 
 of princely compassion to raise me out of this lowest dust, and so by 
 breathing new life into me, make me able and capable to do your 
 Majesty some acceptable service. And as I am bound in duty I shall 
 ever pray for the increase of your Majesty's happiness and the con- 
 tinuance of your glorious reign. This is the humble petition and 
 prayer of Your Majesty's most obedient and loyal subject and servant, 
 Denzil Holies. 
 
 About 1630. Draft by Sir John Coke of " Order for the Ward- 
 robe." 
 
 The Lord Treasurer and the Oliancellor of the Exchequer commanded 
 to pay to the Master of the Great Wardrobe and to the Clerk of the 
 said Wardrobe 16,000/. yearly, to be kept in a chest with two locks, 
 having keys, to be kept by those two officers severally. " And because 
 we are given to understand that the stores and furnitures belonging to 
 our wardrobes are so much worn and decayed that a great supply must 
 of necessity be made with speed .... we require and command 
 them out of the said sum to pay such bills, wages, and liveries only as 
 shall be due for provisions delivered and to be delivered, and for 
 services done and to be done from and since the said date being the 
 15th of April 1630. Earlier debts to be paid by the Lord Treasurer 
 and the Chancellor of the Exchequer as soon as it may be spared from 
 our pressing and great affairs. The master and clerk of the Great 
 Wardrobe to give in due accounts at the end of every year. 
 
 (1630 or 1631.) A paper endorsed by Sir J. Coke, " President of 
 the North. A. letter sent to this effect." Another paper endorsed by 
 Sir J. Coke, " Letter to the President and Council in the North." The 
 latter is a draft in the writing of Sir J. Coke of a letter as to obtaining 
 payment of fines from persons compounding for not accepting knight- 
 hood at the Coronation in reference to a judgment in the Court of 
 Exchequer, " this last term." 
 
 1631. Hough draft in Sir J. Coke's writing of a letter from him 
 endorsed " Copy to the Lord Conway." 
 
 Du Molin was as far as Dover on his way towards France. There he 
 got knowledge that Short and his letters were intercepted. Yesterday 
 the Venetian Ambassador came to me and taking notice of Du Molin's 
 departure wished he might carry with him an affection of sweetening 
 rather than of exasperating offences ; that a post of his was imprisoned 
 at Dover Castle, and letters from the King of France and the Mother 
 to our Queen were taken from him. lie demanded whether the 
 releasing of this man might not be an obligation to Du Molin, and a 
 fit lenitive to take away all harshness which might make difficulty in 
 the accommodation betwixt the Kings. Considering Gcrbier's adver- 
 tisement from the Hague concerning this Ambassador and finding that 
 his letters out of France came in Du Molin's packets, and seeing him 
 already solociting on his behalf, I am induced to believe that, under the 
 name of an Ambassador for Venice, we shall hereafter have him 
 as Agent and Intelligencer for France. The deciphering of the 
 letters is not yet perfected. I find by a memorandum given by Du 
 Molin to Short, that the Chevalier tic Jars hath such interest in him
 
 424 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS that he trusteth him even in his petty affaires in France. Consider- 
 ing the banishment of Jars, and the public employment ofDuMolin, 
 this familier use of him and his repair to Du Molin's house may move 
 jealousy of some further engagement betwixt them. I further by the 
 cipher discover that Du Molin hath practised against the correspondents 
 of Burlamachi. 
 
 1630-1, January 1. Sir Henry Vane, Knight, Ambassador Extra- 
 ordinary for His Majesty to the States of the United Provinces, humbly 
 craveth allowance 
 
 (1> for new years gifts to divers of the King and Queen of Bohemia's 
 servants, Prince and Princess of Orange's, and divers officers and 
 others belonging to the States, the sum of 70. 
 
 (2) for a feast made to the King and Queen of Bohemia, Prince and 
 Princess of Orange with divers others of the best quality of the 
 Hague the sum of 100. 
 
 (3) for intelligences and other secret services from the 1st of October 
 1629 until the 1st of April 1630, the sum of 730. 
 
 Endorsed " Sir H. Vane's three general bills according to which 
 I made him allowance for one comprising all three amounting to 900 
 the 5th of April 1630, and this by His Majesty's command and my Lord 
 Treasurer's allowance." 
 
 1630-1, January 2. Manchester. William Burges to Humphrey 
 Davenport, Esquire, at Trafford. 
 
 I have inquired about estates of Mr. Davenport. He has at Henbury 
 Gayte and Belgrave about 500/. or 600/. per annum. Sir W. Kny veton 
 took out execution upon a statute acknowledged to him by Mr. Daven- 
 port the grandfather. He hath compounded with the young gentleman's 
 mother for her jointure in part of the estate for some yearly pension. 
 
 1630-1, January 8. Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland (5o), to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty at Garlick 
 Hithe. 
 
 When I perused the directions of His Majesty's letters for the Lord 
 Conway's foot company for me I observed it to be to the Lord Justices 
 and thereupon became doubtful that there was a failure therein, for I 
 suppose that it is proper to the Lord General and not the Lords Justices 
 to give the warrant for admitting of captains to companies. May it be 
 so framed as I may receive restitution to my own company in the hands 
 of Sir John Burlacy, and he have my Lord Conway's. And the clause 
 to be added, which must free me from check for the absence of my own 
 person and two soldiers, my servants, which is the ordinary course. I 
 hope to meet you sometime this day at the Court. 
 
 1630-1, January 11. Dublin. R. Boyle, Earl of Cork, to Sir J. Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State in England, 
 at Court. 
 
 The Lord Chancellor and I have received letters from the most 
 honourable Lords by which to my great and everlasting comfort, I 
 understand the gracious acceptance that His Majesty and the Council 
 have of my weak endeavours in this joint government. I shall make 
 it my first suit to you to move His Majesty to make choice of some fitter 
 person of better abilities and power than I am to manage this govern- 
 ment. And that I may have leave to retire to my country home which 
 1 have not seen these three years, and in all that time have paid 200 
 a week for workmen's wages. Neither doth the King's entertainment 
 bear half the charge that here I do necessarily expend. My studies and
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 425 
 
 endeavours are not accompanied with the good .approbation of some Coke Mss. 
 others here in chief places, for every good work I intend is made a 
 double travail unto me, yea many times when it is moulded and well 
 digested is contradicted and nipped in the bud : then I that am but as half 
 a man here am forced with grief to give over those good intentions. 
 I have not been the least means of extinguishing the petty rebellion 
 which was in the Ranelagh and the Byrnes country, which now God 
 be thanked is all quieted insomuch as the last of that rebellious crew 
 named Donnogh Duff O'Ryan came in this day to me and upon his 
 knees with a rope about his neck freely submitted himself without 
 condition to His Majesty's mercy and justice. And in the applause 
 thereof my colleague is contented to share. Phelim McFeagh is dead, 
 and God grant his sons and their sons give us no new work. But 
 in the great work of suppressing the overgrown pride and height 
 that the Jesuits, friars, and priests had exalted themselves, all their 
 conventual houses are seized into His Majesty's hands. In this service 
 the envy of the papists is cast only upon me as disclaimed by others 
 and I only libelled at. The discharging of that unarmed dangerous 
 eating Irish regiment consisting of ignorant recusants is divulged here 
 to proceed from my advice and solicitation. The regulating of the 
 King's receipts, and to cause the comings in of every half year to 
 defray the whole establishment for the same time, I acknowledge it 
 was my work. Yet it hath drawn upon me the malice and dis- 
 pleasure of the Lord Mountnorris, and those that are his partakers, 
 from whom I must expect all the mischief that their pens, tongues, 
 and displeasures can invent or heap upon ine. If His Majesty would 
 be pleased that Sir W, Beecher might be commanded to give instructions 
 to some of His Majesty's learned Counsel, and to give the Lord Mount- 
 norris his charge it would soon appear whether his service have 
 answered his high and large professions. I desire that no belief be 
 given to his verbal affirmations till they shall be transmitted hither 
 answered and testified by the several officers. I must ever acknowledge 
 that you have been pleased to do me all right and favour in the report 
 you made to the Lords, and in the real composure of their letters now 
 sent unto us. 
 
 1630-1, January 14. Ludlow Castle. Sir Jo. Brydgeman, Sir X. 
 Overbury, Edw. Watres, Justices of the Marches, to Sir J. Coke. 
 Certify that no fees were demanded or taken for making of billets. 
 
 1630-1, January 24. Justice Jo. Brydgemau to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Inclosing Certificate as to whether ofliee of entering causes for hearing 
 and warrants of attorney had been formerly granted by patent, with 
 reference to draft purporting a grant to Mi-. Wigmore. 
 
 1630-1, January 26. Mordaunt, Earl of Peterborough, to Sir J. 
 Coke, Knt., Principal Secretary of His Majesty. 
 
 I am sorry that this honest though unfortunate business of Richmond 
 and Middleham should occasion so much cost and trouble both to myself 
 and friends. Amongst the rest I shall ever confess that your real and 
 noble dealing therein both with His Majesty and the Lord Treasurer 
 deserves of me the same thankful acknowledgment as if it had been 
 effected. It was begun with his lordship's approbation and at my being 
 with his Lordship the last summer it pleased him to give me good 
 encouragement in it. 
 
 1630-1, January 27. Ticknall. Gilbert Ward to Sir .1. Coke. 
 Directions for levelling the court (at Melbourne) by next the gate 2 feet, 
 and so downward, have been prosecuted accordingly : the perfecting of the
 
 426 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Ooke MSS. bowl alley gone on with the removing of the earth in the conrt. The 
 stone got in the levelling of the court is almost answerable to the whole 
 charge. The great works are all done for substance. In Derbyshire 
 the Justices are not so forward in certifying and inhibiting inclosurers 
 as in some other counties. 
 
 1630-1, January 31. Ludlow Castle. Sir Jo. Brydgeman, Sir N. 
 Overbury, Edw. Watres, Justices of the Marches, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Further certificate that no fees were demanded or taken for making 
 of billets. 
 
 1630-1, January 31. Grays Inn. Chr. Fulwood to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I have desired Mr. Auditor Fanshaw to come with me and Mr. 
 Goodhand to wait upon you this night at supper that Your Honour may 
 speak with him in your business. 
 
 1630-1, February 5. Sir Eobert Pye to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 Since I spake with you I have attended my Lord Chamberlain last 
 night and this morning ; he doth send for Sir Edward Leech and let him 
 know his intention to pleasure you in that you desire. I would not be 
 over particular, but only spake in general and then will his Lordship be 
 ready for either you to speak to him or he to you. He is well informed 
 of your brother's love and doth desire to preserve it. My Lord of 
 Powes came while I spake, and did thank me, protesting the obligation 
 he had and your love to my Lord. He before did believe I did favour 
 Sir Edward Leech overmuch. I did not appear before either way, and 
 now will not, but upon need Sir James Palmer my Lord will see, when 
 himself and you have spoken. Take no notice of me to my Lord. This 
 much I thought to inform you that you may be prepared to tell his 
 Lordship your deeires and deal plainly now with Sir James Palmer if 
 you speak with him. 
 
 1630-1, February 8. Serjeants Inn. Sir Nicholas Hyde (Chief Justice 
 of the King's Bench) to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to 
 the King's Majesty (indorsed "Richard Lyde"). 
 
 I was bold to trouble your honour to deliver the enclosed letter to His 
 gracious Majesty and you were [torn] to read the same unto him and 
 subscribe His Majesty's direction and pleasure touching the same, and I 
 received it yesterday about noon and imparted the contents to my brethren 
 of the King's Bench, and thereupon we ordered the prisoner to be 
 executed accordingly. Yet this morning I received from the Master of 
 Requests a signification of His Majesty's command that execution be 
 stayed until His Majesty be made acquainted with the quality of the 
 offence. It seemeth that His Majesty did not remember that our former 
 certificate concerned the same matter. I doubt not but we shall receive 
 further directions which we shall be ready to obey. 
 
 1630-1, February 12. Dublin. Sir Charles Coote to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries, and of His Majesty's 
 Privy Council of England. 
 
 A countryman of mine, Stephen Cooke, had a suit depending in 
 the High Court of Chancery in this kingdom : his adversarv, Aldersie 
 was committed in execution until he should perform the decree. Not- 
 withstanding by some private and chambering miscarriage this decree 
 was nullified. Aldersie set at large, the whole proceedings vacated, and 
 all this done out of Court and without the knowledge ol Cooke or his 
 counsel. No redress unless he can procure especial directions from His 
 Majesty by your means.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 427 
 
 1030-1, February 13. Dublin. Stepbcn Cooke to Sir Jobn Coke, CokeMSS. 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries and of His Majesty's 
 Privy Council of England. 
 
 Thanks for your honour's last favour in procuring His Majesty's 
 letter to the Lord Chancellor. Asks that a second petition may be 
 presented to Viscount Falkland and to His Majesty. Asks a commission 
 and that the Lord of Cork, my Lord Ranelagh, and Sir Charles Coote 
 may be three of the Commissioners. I have humbly taken the boldness 
 to present to your honour by the hands of this bearer an acknowledgment 
 of my thankfulness. 
 
 1630-1, February 14. Howlett. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of the principal Secretaries of State and of His Majesty's 
 most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 I desire that your honour will afford me that assistance which I know 
 may much avail me in rectifying the opinion of His Majesty which from 
 these wrongful informations I fear I stand eclipsed in. Sir Guildford 
 Slingsby being in his recovery hopeless, of which place I having a 
 patent, in reversion, I should hold it a great misfortune to come to it 
 without the good opinion of my Master. 
 
 1030-1, February 21. Whitehall. Sir Benjn. Rudyer to Sir J. Coke. 
 A fit of an ague. I cannot be present at the commission but you will find 
 others that will be very careful of your business. 
 
 1630-1, February 28. Corpus Christi College, Cambridge. Dr. Henry 
 Butts (Pro Cane: Cant:) to Sir John Coke, Knight, principal Secretary 
 to His most excellent Majesty. 
 
 Your brother's proceeding Doctor was done upon the first opportunity 
 and with expressions on all hands of our respects as well to your honour 
 as to him. We acknowledge ourselves deep debtors to your honour in 
 the late question between my Lord Brooke and us touching the History 
 Lecture bequeathed to us by the Lord Brooke, last deceased. The time 
 limited by the will draweth to an end. 1 beseech your honour to perfect 
 the work which is in your hand. 
 
 1630-1, March 3. Gillingham. William Cooke to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, principal Secretary of State and of the Privy Council and one 
 of the Commissioners for the Admiralty, at his house on Garlick Hill, 
 London. 
 
 Your letter to Mr. Asten, he being gone out of the river of Medway 
 with the pink, I opened, and according to your honour's directions 1 
 have made stay of two ships. 
 
 [1630-1], March ,'>. Convertine under Portland. Captain Richard 
 Plumleigh to Sir John Coke, Knight, Secretary (if State, at Whitehall. 
 
 Having received my Lord Ambassador on hoard the 22nd Februarv, 
 the same evening we set sail and arrived at Portland where we now ride, 
 this 5th March. Tin; ship is very tight and sound. The If'/tc/p lias 
 proved leaky; at Lisbon and at Cadi/ we made shift to mend her and 
 bring her home. We have brought home in the Convertine in coined 
 plate 80,000/. sterling, and found in Spain extraordinary welcome and 
 much joy for the peace. 1 beseech you grant, me licence to come to 
 London. 1 hope to find this favour at your Honour's hands, which I 
 kiss. 
 
 1630-1, March 12. Sir Robert Pye to Sir J. Coke. 
 My nephew, Captain Beale, desires to go in a Whelp. My Lord of 
 Danby will be ready to give testimony of his can; and diligence.
 
 428 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1630-1, March 14. Sir Robert Heath, Attorney General, to Sir 
 
 John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal secretaries. 
 
 This gentleman, Mr. Nuthall, is one of those who my Lord Treasurer 
 desireth to take a journey to Newcastle to accommodate the business for 
 the salt, which stands very well for the King's profit and the advance of 
 his revenue. I beseech your honour therefore to despatch that letter 
 whereof I was bold to deliver your honour a minute. 
 
 1630-1, March 17. Copy of a letter to Mr. Brooke at Portsmouth. 
 He is not to enter shipkeepers without a warrant from one of the 
 principal officers for His Majesty's navy ; he is to carry himself more 
 modestly towards the master attendant there. From Mr. Goodin we 
 expect to hear of your future carriage. Thomas Aylesbury, Kenelm 
 Digby, Den. Flemyng, Phinees Pett. 
 
 1630-1, March 17. His Majesty's Castle of Dublin. Ad. Lord Loftus, 
 Chancellor, and Richard Boyle, Ear of Cork, Lords Justices of Ireland, 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Referring to their letter to the Lords of the Council concerning 
 Phillip Payne and G. Williams-on, showing how far others may 
 be prejudiced in their inteitst by granting the request of thote gentle- 
 men. 
 
 1630-1, March 18. London. Sir James Bagg to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The gentlemen that go to Newcastle for the business of the salt sup- 
 pose they will have a good success. Mr. Carr is a petitioner to have 
 leave to export 700 wave of salt ; there is a great scarcity of that 
 commodity. 
 
 1630-1. March 21. Henry Percy to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Euphuistic letter for recommendation to be Secretary to Mr. Chancellor 
 of the Exchequer, who is now reducing his family. Failing of success 
 of those precious gales of your honour's breath in my late suit to my 
 Lord Treasurer, I presume to solicit your noble continuance and convoy 
 to my new design. 
 
 1630-1, March 21. Chatham. Sir Gylford Slyngisbie to Sir J. Coke. 
 Further in behalf of his son, who is able to carry a ship to the coast 
 of Spain and back without a master. 
 
 1630-1, March 20. Sir Robert Heath, Attorney General, to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, one of his Majesty's principal Secretaries. 
 
 I have been visited by two fils of a gentle ague. I have sent unto 
 you the proclamation concerning the King's evil ; I had not heard a 
 word of it, but your letter did intimate that my Lord Chamberlain had 
 given directions therein. I have also sent another for prohibiting the 
 exportation of corn. But the third which concerneth wool, woolfells, 
 leather, &c. I have forebore till T receive further directions. 
 
 1630-1, March 24. Thomas Lake to Mistress Carey at her house in 
 Drury Lane. 
 
 I should too much forget good manners if I did not return my best 
 thanks upon all occasions to you by whose means I have made an 
 entrance (as I hope) into so happy a business. The present are only to 
 request you to hand for me to Mr. Secretary, your honourable brother, 
 these enclosed papers which I have sent according to his commands. 
 After he shall have determined what to do on his part I shall with all 
 diligence attend both his and your further directions.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 429 
 
 1631, March 27. Ipswich. Henry Dade to Sir John Coke, Knight, Coke mss. 
 one of the principal Secretaries to His Majesty. 
 
 I have caused two of the treatises which I thought to be most 
 material in my book to be transcribed, which I beseech you to accept of. 
 I pray you to pardon me if you shall perceive by the treaties that my 
 zeal to effect somewhat for the Admiralty is beyond my sufficiency. I 
 must say with Ovid, Est aliquid prodire tenus, si non datur ultra. I 
 beseech you to give countenance unto the petition preferred by me in 
 the behalf of one Bardwell against Sir William Whithepoll unto the 
 Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, your associates, which is promised 
 by Mr. Nicholas, Secretary to the Admiralty, to be followed unto your 
 honour. 
 
 [Indorsed by Sir John Coke with notes of numbers of backs and 
 breasts for lances : and also with a memorandum respecting the state 
 and reform of the Armouries at Greenwich and the Tower, where 
 formerly only tilting armours were kept, but now grown great and 
 furnished for martial service.] 
 
 1031, March 28. Philippe Burlamachi a Monsieur Monsieur Jean 
 Coke, Chevalier Principal Secretaire de Sa Majeste. 
 
 Je reviens de la inaison de Monsieur Le Tresorier, lequel j'ai trouvc 
 malade. J'y serai demain de bonne heure, comme je ferai domain de 
 ce que j'aurai traite avec lui. 
 
 1631, March 31. Chatham. Henry CJoddard to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 His son presents a model of a ship made by hunself, unplanked, that 
 all the orlops and beams and parts may be seen. Asks he may be joined 
 in pateut to succeed the father after his decease. Sets forth his own 
 services including the building alx)ve .5,000 tons of shipping for the 
 East India Company, (lives reasons for his having been hated by Mr. 
 Burrell. 
 
 1631, March 31. A list of such officers as have left companies and 
 places of command in the States service of the Low Countries to come 
 into His Majesty's service. 
 
 Colonel Courtney - A company in the States service. 
 
 Colonel Fryer - - A lieutenant in the States pay. 
 
 Colonel Fairer - - The same. 
 
 Colonel Hackbut - - The same. 
 
 Lieutenant Colonel Brett - Ar. ensign in the States pay. 
 
 Capt. Alcock - - The same. 
 
 Capt. Woodward - - A quartermaster there. 
 
 Captn. Boiler - - A lieutenant there. 
 
 Captn. Taylor - - Gent of the Ordnance there. 
 
 Captn. Boiler, junr. - - An ensign there. 
 
 Captn. Mouldsworth - - The same. 
 
 Captn. Powell - The same. 
 
 Captn. Gilpin - - A lieutenant there. 
 
 Lieutenant Colonel Hone. 
 
 Capt. Robert Dish - - A sergeant there. 
 
 Capt. Sibthorpe. 
 
 ('apt. Sherlie. 
 
 Capt. John Matdie - - A sergeant there. 
 
 1631, April 6. Sir John Kyrle to Sir John Cuke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary to His .Majesty. 
 
 Sir Giles Mompesson making his repair t<> \\ illon to the house of Sir 
 Giles Bridges did then and there in the behalf of the Lady Villiers
 
 430 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. consult and devise how and which way he might best improve a good 
 part of the Forest of Dean called Mailscott, which they pretend was 
 given by King James to Sir Edward Villiers. It was at length agreed 
 by Sir Giles and his associates to inclose it, which was begun, and he 
 eftsoones put men on work to dig for coals. The foresters grieved with 
 this attempt of his, some twenty persons threw part of the inclosure in 
 again, not without opprobrious words uttered by them against the said 
 Mompesson, whom they termed to be an odious projector. All this did 
 not qualify him, for he notwithstanding put men eftsoons on work there 
 to dig for coals. This did stir up and exasperate their giddy brains, 
 and seconded their first attempt by sound of drum and ensigns in most 
 rebellious manner, carrying a picture or statue apparelled like Mompesson 
 and with great noise and clamour threw it into the coalpits which the 
 said Sir Giles had digged. On the 5th April the commoners in a new 
 fury assembled together with sound of drums, ensigns displayed, 
 and in warlike manner did enter into the Forest and then and there 
 without any resistance have rommitted many insolent and fearful parts, 
 by breaking open the inclosures, destroying a ropehouse, burning some 
 houses, and proclaimed that they would assemble again upon Saturday 
 next, being Easter eve, with a far greater power to finish their work. 
 The number assembled were (as is conceived) 3,000. 
 
 1631, April 7. Canbury. R. Willis to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of the Principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 This worthy gentleman, Sir Wolstan Dixie, having notice of a 
 complaint lately made at the Board against my Lord of Stamford him- 
 self and other gentlemen of Leicestershire touching inclosing of the 
 commons there, is desirous to give your honour privately some satisfac- 
 tion concerning his own particular. I beseech you hear him deliver the 
 truth of his own case, that if there be a necessity of his attending the 
 Board therein, he may have your Honour's good word for his favourable 
 despatch. 
 
 1631, April 12. Sir Thomas Lake to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I am beholden to your sister (Mrs. Carey) for her great love to me. 
 My Father makes me demand 3,000 : you make offer to me of .62,000 ; if 
 the third thousand can be given on the condition of jointure I shall 
 enlarge myself to the uttermost to give satisfaction therein. I have 
 made choice to express myself by letter because it is free both of deceit 
 and mistake which may happen in speech, and withal though I would 
 not willingly see your honour upon any terms of breach but rather 
 receive it by a second means than yourself. 
 
 1631, April 19. Trinity College, Cambridge. Doctor Henry Groochc 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The sum for which I sue is valuable : but the expense in journeying 
 and the stay in London is extreme chargeable, and I may in conclusion 
 lose the principal. I put you in remembrance by writing until you 
 command my personal attendance, that if there be anything your honour 
 shall think requisite for me to do, therein accordingly I may proceed. 
 
 1631, April 25. Sir John Coke's note of charges against Sir Henry 
 Marvin [Mervyn] in the Report made to His Majesty for sea services 
 of the year 1630 and Sir Henry Mervyn's answer. 
 
 [Victuals for 28 more men than he hod on board. Neglect in con- 
 voying ships to Holland, Hamburgh, and Eastland ports. Staying at 
 Hull two months, and Elsinore one month, instead of scouring the seas.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 431 
 
 Giving a feast to Lady Mackey at Elsinore and bringing her home and coke mss. 
 landing her in Lee Road where never Admiral carried his ship into the 
 
 river so high. By continual complaints he excepted himself from doing 
 service and so spent the King's wages and victuals in the towns till his 
 coming into Chatham.] 
 
 1631, May 9. Chamber by Benard'3 (Baynard's) Castle at Mrs. Best, 
 right against St. Benard's Church. Sir John Peyton to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 About the reference upon Thomas Burton's petition against me I am 
 an humble suitor for your warrant to him to appear before your honour 
 with his counsel upon Thursday next where I will not fail to attend, 
 and humbly intreat that his not appearance may not hinder you report- 
 ing to the Board my answer to his petition. 
 
 1631, May 1 1. Chatham. Henry Goddard to Sir J. Coke. 
 The present state of our business at Chatham. His son capable of 
 the work Augustine Boat did. As to keeping a Counter Book. 
 
 1631, May 14. Durham House. Richard Willis to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 1 met my Lady Lake in her coach : she is troubled with the Commis- 
 sioners (for her appeal). When I pressed an accord betweeu her and 
 her son she said his own submission in a filial manner only will have 
 power to bring her about. There is a proverb I have long since read 
 " Duro con duro non fa mai buon muro." 
 
 1631, May 24. Chatham Hill. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of the principal Secretaries of State and of His Majesty's 
 most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 One Michael Cole of London hath begun to make a wharf into the 
 river and hath many men at work upon a brick building for a lime kiln. 
 A thing so unfit within the body of His Majesty's Navy that strangers 
 boats should have admittance both night and day, I assure myself your 
 Lordships will prevent it by your prohibition. Be pleased to direct 
 whether the Garland shall not be presently had into Chatham since their 
 men may prove useful to us for the works here, fifty of those returned 
 from the ships which came about being run away. 
 
 1631. May 24. Rochester. Captain Plumleigh to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, principal Secretary of State, at Whitehall, or his own house. 
 
 I find the Antelope unprovided of all things but her victuals ; the 
 gunners and sails and boatswain's stores are all behind. Except your 
 honour quicken these snail-paced people to do their duties I cannot see 
 any speedy hope to despatch her. To you therefore I make this address 
 as to one of whose power and will to advance the service I have had so 
 ample and true experience. 
 
 1631, June 1. H. Meautys to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 An inclosure (absent) to be signed by direction of my Lord Monteith, 
 who has signified His Majesty's pleasure unto me for the speedy dispatch 
 thereof. 
 
 1631. June 4. Lord Baltinglas to Sir John Coke, Secretary of State. 
 
 I am referred by the Lords of the Committee to your honour, the 
 Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Francis Cottington), and Justice 
 Jones. I make it my humble request you would nominate! a day and 
 place of meeting. If your honour please that the Lord of Mountnorris 
 and Sir William Beecher may likewise be there I will give them notice that 
 you may be thoroughly informed of the former passages and the true 
 state of the business.
 
 432 HISTORICAL MANU SCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. 1631, June 4. Chigwell. Peter Mease to Sir J. Coke, Principal 
 
 Secretary to the King, at his house iu Tottenham. 
 
 The suit is for a prebend, the value is not above 14 a year. The 
 incumbent being sick solicited my Lord of York for a resignation. My 
 Lord refused, in regard that he meant to gratify me therewith to recom- 
 pense my now eight years service. My Lord of York being determined 
 to confer one upon me almost at his first entrance upon that see, it was 
 intercepted by another through the mediation of my Lord Keeper his 
 letters. In the name of these two respects I doubt not but your honour 
 will prevail at the first motion. My Lord's corpse the next Wednesday 
 are brought hither to Chigwell to their more abiding place, By his 
 servants I shall have certain notice whether the report of Dr. Chad- 
 wick's [the Prebendaiy of Woodborough, Southwell] death be true. 
 
 1631, June 4. Portsmouth. Edward Boat to Sir J. Coke, at his houso 
 on Grarlick Hill. 
 
 Describes state of vessels and men employed ; asks notice of his 
 Majesty's coming down. James Robbins has in the Bishop of Win- 
 chester's woods already made into plank and timber 200 loads. The 
 provision might yearly be gained out of the New Forest, where the 
 timber decays and grows downward apace. 
 
 1631, June 5. Antelope. Captain Plumleigh to Sir J. Coke, at 
 Whitehall. 
 
 I caused my men to work day and night to make all things ready. 
 On Friday we warped half way down aud on Saturday got her over the 
 chain where she now rides. I will not trouble you again till I see the 
 Downs. 
 
 1631, June T 8 . Vienna. Sir Robert Anstruther to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State and one of His Majesty's most 
 honourable Privy Council, at Court. 
 
 Since my last I have been most of the time on my journey to this 
 place wheie I made mine entry the first of this month, having been met 
 and received with honourable respect. The 4th I had mine audience 
 of the Emperor and Empress before noon and of the King and Queen of 
 Hungary after dinner. I gave the Emperor at length a proposition 
 which your honour may find the contents of in the copy I send with 
 this conveyance to my Lord of Dorchester, and am in daily expectation 
 to see how it will work. I am not assured of the safety of the way 
 hence, and I have no settled cypher with your honour. This freedom 1 
 humbly beg you will take in good part as proceeding from my sincere 
 ingenuity. 
 
 1631, June 14. Greenwich. Dudley Carleton, Viscount Dorchester, 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 My own thanks and my wife's for care and pains in our business, 
 beseeching you to perfect the work by sealing and delivering the in- 
 closed with words fittest to satisfy the scrupulosity of the Attorney of 
 that Court who once before made more ado than needed. 
 
 1631, June 14. The Antelope in the Downs. Captain Richard 
 Plumleigh [no address]. 
 
 Right honourable, the whole fleet is now in the Downs and do little 
 or nothing. To-morrow the St. Claud goes amongst our own trawlers, 
 which have killed almost the species of fish upon the coast. The 
 pirates Nutt and Downes are upon the western coast, and have lately 
 been so bold as to put into Cawsand Bay, and questionless the country
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 433 
 
 people relieve them for gain with whatsoever they want. If your honour 
 thought it fit to dispense with my attendance here I make no doubt but 
 I should quickly fright them from that haunt and haply bring them to 
 Wapping. The Dutch are very strong upon the coast, but keep all 
 together on the French side, expecting as they pretend the descent of 
 certain Spanish bands in Flanders. For the French the cry is greater 
 than need to be. I hear only of four ships for the guard of their own 
 merchants from pirates which lie in the trade about Ushant. 
 
 1631, June 17. Blackfriars. Thomas Alured to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State. 
 
 Neither the Chancery or Common Law, I think, admit of suits 
 expressly in the name of legacies ; but of late years they have sued for 
 them as debts, I entreat that in your perusal of the names of the 
 Counsellors which are and will be added (which are at least 50), you 
 will please to name one Sir Philip Eyton in Shropshire, a gentleman 
 respective of at Court and well thought of in the country, of a fair estate 
 and one of the Deputy Lieutenants of the county. Since yourself have 
 the honour to be one of the Referees from His Majesty, you have 
 also the power to approve or recommend. 
 
 1631, June 22. Justice William Jones to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Has perused the two petitions of Anne Weston and William Weston, 
 concerning suits in the Court of Chancery in Ireland between them and 
 John Weston long protracted, and thinks that a letter should be written 
 to the Lord Chancellor of Ireland wishing him with all convenient speed 
 to hear the said causes, and that he shall take to his assistance the two 
 Chief Justices, the Chief Baron, and the Master of the Rolls, and thea 
 with their advice finally to end and determine the same. 
 
 1631, June 24. Doctor's Commons. Sir Henry Marten to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State and one of His Majesty's 
 most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 This bearer, the Register of the Admiralty, will acquaint your honour 
 with a petition that he hath to deliver to the Lords touching a business 
 that doth strike at the root of the Admiralty if it be not redressed. 
 
 1631, June 25. From the Audit. Adam Lord Loftus, Chancellor, 
 Francis Aungier, W. Shawler, William Parsons, Ri. Boston, Dudley 
 Norton, James Ware, to the Right Honourable our very good Lords 
 the Lords of His Majesty's most honourable Privy Council of England. 
 
 Relating to allowances to be made by and to the Accountant in respect 
 of payments in the time of Viscount Falkland and before him of 
 Viscount Grandison, Lords Deputy of Ireland. 
 
 1631, June 26. Middle Temple. John Verney to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 For the same Richard Cofferd asking a letter to the Lord Chief 
 Baron. 
 
 1631, July 4. Texel. Captain Richard Plumleigh to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Secretory of State, at Whitehall. 
 
 Upon sight of your order of the 25th of June by the Lord Marquis 
 Hamilton, his servant, I presently stood over for the Texel. The ship 
 expressed in the order is at Amsterdam, 1 8 leagues up the river. To 
 hasten the master away, I sent up my purser with the Lord Marquis his 
 servant, but as yet I have heard nothing from them. 
 
 1631, July 4. Durham House. R. Willis to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 one of the principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 I am suitor to your honour on the behalf of Mr. Richardson that he 
 may be employed himself in one of those places of deputy Saltpetre men 
 
 U 24963. E E
 
 434 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. now xo [^ j doubt not but Mr. Evelyn will join with me iu this humble 
 suit for him. 
 
 [Indorsed by Sir John Coke with " Copy of my letter to the Earl of 
 Cork for John Bourke's land to be granted to Mr. Edward Bead."] 
 [See reply below July 30.] 
 
 1631, July 5. Durham House. Richard Willis to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I have recommended Mr. Richardson for employment in the saltpeter 
 works. I now move for Mr. Jackson, " my old fellow at Deptford," 
 that he may dispose of his place as purser to a citizen of good credit. 
 
 1631, July 6. Whitehall. William Boswell to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary of State unto His Majesty. 
 
 I entreat your honour to give your warrant to this bearer to seal up 
 Edward Potter's trunks, books, and papers, and to bring them unto 
 your honour's chamber or me. If the trnnks be opened, having been 
 sealed up by my direction, your honour's warrant may be to bring the 
 party who opened them before your honour or the Lords. 
 
 1631, July 6. Fleet Street. Emanuel Downinge to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, principal Secretary of State. 
 
 I have delivered the King's letter to one Read in the Signet Office 
 to be entered, who told me your honour was to sign it before he could 
 seal it, for directions are sent into Ireland that such like letters shall 
 not take effect unless they be under one of the Secretaries hands. 
 
 1631, July 12. Westminster. Sir Ranulph Crewe to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, one of his Majesty's principal^Secretaries. 
 
 If the King be inclinable to the reference to the judges, I entreat you 
 that the motives of the reference may be expressed to be such as in the 
 draft of my letter be mentioned ; and that it may be made effectual, as 
 with your good affection to me it may be. If my Lord Keeper were in 
 the way when you move the King I hope he would add to the motion. 
 
 1631, July 14. Westminster. Sir Ranulph Crewe to Sir John 
 Coke. 
 
 I humbly thank you for your care of me. My desire was to have a 
 letter from the King, howbeit it may so fall out it will not be useful to 
 me. If it be so, the effect of the draft conceived for so much as you 
 thought to prevail for, it must satisfy me. Thus presenting my humble 
 service unto you with this poor and unworthy remembrance enclosed, 
 I take my leave. 
 
 1631, July 14. Aboard the Bonadventure in the Hope. James, 
 Marquis of Hamilton, K.G., to Sir John Coke, Knight, principal Secre- 
 to His Majesty at Court. 
 
 I have conferred with the captain and we think it very expedient that 
 a ketch may be sent down to wait upon the King's ship. I know not 
 how soon our departure may be. 
 
 1631, July 15. On board the Triumph in the Downs. A. Percy, Earl 
 of Northumberland [no address]. 
 
 My Lords, The Saly (Sallee) ships (the business which was com- 
 mitted to my care) are now fitted and stay only for a wind. If by the 
 middle of next month they be not at Saly, it will be to no end for them 
 to go ; for about that time Captain Rainborough must be coming from 
 thence. I have therefore given Captain Trenchfield, whe goes captain 
 in the Mary Rose, instructions to return to me again, if he kept in these 
 eeas past the 5th of May. His arrival there in time may further those
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 435 
 
 designs. By taking of a week's victuals out of some of the great ships 
 we have supplied this ship and pinnace. I durst not venture either of 
 the frigates in that open road at Saly. I have appointed the Roebuck, 
 being strong and able to endure any sea ; the principal use that will be 
 made of her there is to lie near the shore in shallow water thereby to 
 hinder the passing of small boats and in a calm to use their oars. I 
 made choice of the Mary Rose rather than any of the merchants. 
 Knowing that Captain Rainborough's ships have lost some men, I have 
 added 20 to their number. For the supplying of Captain Rainborough 
 I have as your Lordships directed sent 800J. in mouey. There are not 
 now above two or three frigates that belong to Calais. I shall do my 
 best to light upon some of them. I have here only the Swan frigate 
 that will be a serviceable vessel for such an occasion as this. The 
 Greyhound pinnace is employed to the West, the Roebuck is going for 
 Saly, the Nicodemus is grown leaky and defective. 
 
 1631, July 18. Oatlands. Henry Rich Earl of Holland, KG., to 
 Sir J. Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of 
 State. 
 
 I have not failed to move His Majesty's grace and favour for 
 Mr. Fulwood, and accordingly have an assurance of that place. At 
 the return of the progress his patent may be prepared for signature, 
 and as in this desire of yours now, so shall my readiness answer your 
 expectation in all other your commands, when you please to require your 
 affectionate humble servant. 
 
 1631, July 19. Westminster. David Ramsay to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty. 
 
 I beseech you, in the business of my wife's kinsman Poe, referred to 
 Mr. Boswell (who saith he had no order therein from the Loixl Privy 
 Seal and your honour), to the end that now at last he may get a 
 despatch after 8 months chargeable attendance to his near beggaring and 
 utter ruiu, be pleased to draw up a certificate according to the equity 
 and justness of the cause as you find it. 
 
 1631, July 19. William Lake to Sir J. Coke. 
 Is commanded by the Lord Treasurer, to send the draft which 
 he forgot to inclose with the answer he despatched by Mr. Stanley. 
 
 1631, July 25. Greenwich. William Laud, Bishop of London, to 
 Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary of State. 
 
 I heartily thank you for your care and pains in drawing the 
 letter for the repair of S. Paul's Church. This letter I desire 
 may be to the Lord Mayor and Aldermen only, to contribute out of 
 the city stock and for themselves severally, descending no lower. 
 
 (1631, July .) A paper endorsed by Sir John Coke, "Memorial 
 concerning the Lord Marquis' [Hamilton's] levies." 
 
 The Lords to point out ports for embarking the men to be raised in 
 the several counties. 
 
 A letter to be written to the Lord Marquis Hamilton inclosing the 
 schedule of the places of embarking. 
 
 Letters to be written as well to the magistrates and officers of those 
 ports as to some Justices of Peace next adjoining to give their assistance 
 for the orderly embarking of the levies, when 50 or upwards shall be 
 brought together. 
 
 That after embarking they be not suffered to come ashore. 
 
 That Captain Duppa or such other person as shall be chosen be 
 directed to have the shipping and provisions theie in readiness by a 
 certain day to be appointed by their Lordships. 
 
 e E 2
 
 436 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Cokb MSS. [1631], July 30. The Antelope in the Downs. Captain Richard 
 
 Plumleigh to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His 
 Majesty. 
 
 Right Honourable, It is now five weeks since I received an order 
 from your honour and the rest of the Lords Commissioners for the 
 wafting of the Lord Marquis Hamilton's arms from the Texel into the 
 Thames. The " Scot " which was hired by the Lord Marquis for this 
 purpose, like a knave, sought all means to protract time because he was 
 hired by the month. I protest before God that since my first coming 
 aboard at Rochester till this present day I have set my foot on no land 
 in the world. The 29th of June your warrant came to my hands. 
 The 1st of July I was at the Texel, and remained there till the 17th, 
 hourly expecting the "Scot" down from Amsterdam. He pleaded he 
 was not ready for eight days, and took seven days to stop a leak. The 
 19th of July we set sail and were beating up to Yarmouth till the 
 23rd, when we met a ketch with my Lord Marquis his warrant to turn 
 back for the Holy Island at the mouth of the River Elbe, which 
 warrant I send you here enclosed. The 26th we arrived at Holy 
 Island, where I delivered over my charge to the Commander of His 
 Majesty's pinnace the Henrietta, by order from my Admiral to that 
 purpose, and was to conduct her to Elsinore in Denmark where it 
 should seem the Lord Marquis intends to stop or land. The same day 
 I set sail back for England, and yesterday being the 29th arrived in the 
 Downs. I received your order to ply to the Westward for the sup- 
 pressing of Turks and pirates. The Hollanders grumble extremely at 
 us, and reckon us their enemies almost in as high a degree as the 
 Spaniards. Their people at Pernambuco are so hunger bitten they 
 must of force quit the place. They sent out all their men of war pre- 
 tending to impeach the passage of the Cardinal into Flanders, whom 
 they gave out in Holland is to be wafted by the King of England's 
 fleet, so fearful they are of our favouring the Spaniards. 
 
 Inclosure in the above. 
 
 1631, July 14. The Marquis Hamilton to Captain Plumleigh. 
 
 I hoped to have found you returned before my coming down. This 
 is to order you to meet me at the Holy Island at the mouth of the 
 Elbe. If we be come and past you shall have order whither to come 
 to us. Bring the bearer my servant along with you. From aboard 
 the Bonaventure in the Hope. If you suppose we are here yet 
 then come directly hither. If the other ships make difficulties to come 
 along with you use the King's authority and force them. 
 
 1631, July 30. Dublin. Richard Boyle, Earl of Cork, to Sir J. 
 Coke, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 Your letters of the 6th [see above] I received the 27th of this 
 month, with His Majesty's letters directed to the Justices for a grant 
 to be passed to Edmond Read of all such lands as escheated to the 
 Crown by the attainder of John Bourke, wherein I fear your friend 
 hath been put upon a harsh and unfit business. I lay open unto you 
 the true state of the matter. The lands were the ancient inheritance of 
 the Lord Baron of Cahir [Butler] who demised them to the parents of 
 John Bourke attainted. Differences did arise about the possession 
 between the Lord of Cahir and the Lord Bourke of Brittaa being the 
 Castle and Manor of Brittas. The Court of Exchequer, to stay the 
 actions of force which were grown high between the two lords and 
 their partakers, gave the Lord Bourke a custodian of the lands at 20/. 
 per annum and left him to his suit to His Majesty. Mr. Read's grant 
 will be pursued and opposed with much clamour and vexation especially
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 437 
 
 trenching upon the principal livelihood of a Baron of the Kingdom of Coke MS8. 
 ancient honourable blood and descent and of the religion. The estate 
 now in question is of the value of 4,000/. or 5,000/. English to be 
 sold. Lastly I beseech you to call upon Sir W. Beecher for certificates 
 and answers in the cause between Blacknall and me. I am withheld 
 from 7,000/. debt by the unwarrantable certificate of the Lord Chan- 
 cellor and Mastei of the Rolls. 
 
 1631, August 4. Aboard the Bonaventure near Woolgast. 
 James, Marquis of Hamilton, to Sir J. Coke at Court. 
 
 Having had experience of the ability and sufficiency of the bearer 
 John Vinch recommends him for a boatswain's place in the first 
 ships which have to be built for His Majesty's service. 
 
 1631, August 9. Cowes. Captain Richard Plumleigh to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State, at Whitehall. 
 
 By entremity of contrary winds it was seven days before I could 
 get the Isle of Wight. A little off the Island we met with an extreme 
 gust of wind in the nature of a tornado ; we were in great danger 
 of being overset. I thought fit to stop at the Cowes to take in two 
 or three boat's lading of ballast and water to stiffen the ship. I am 
 now ready to set sail to the Westward. 
 
 1631, August 9, London. Sir William Beecher to Sir John Coke 
 Knight, one of the Principal Secretaries of State to His Majesty. 
 
 Refers to the business of Lord Mountnorris. Commission for the 
 Army and for Londonderry now in Mr. Branthwait's hands. The 
 Commissioners (for Londonderry) are Sir John Jephson, Mr. Solicitor 
 of Ireland, and Sir Henry Tichborne. My Lord Mountnorris doth 
 besiege my Lord Treasurer so many ways I doubt the issue whether 
 it will fall out to my Lord of Cork's encouragement. But this 
 encouragement he hath beforehand that my Lord Treasurer hath 
 lately obtained the King's hand to a letter for the place of the Lord 
 Treasurer of Ireland for his Lordship for his good services there. 
 There are reports from Holland that my Lord Marquis Hamilton be 
 safe landed at Stralsund in Pomerania. The King goeth to Wood- 
 stock and back the 27th to Oatlands. 
 
 1631, August 9. Encyclical letter of Pope Urban 8 th . 
 Datum Romae apud Sanctum Petrum sub annulo piscatoris die 
 9 Maii 1631, Anno Pontificatus nostri octavo, Johannes Ciampolus. 
 
 (A tergo) 
 
 Venerabilis Fratri Ricardo Episcopo Chalcedonensi et dilectis Filiis 
 Angliae Presbyteris et Clericis tam regularibus quam Secularibus et 
 populo Catholico universe 
 
 Britannia non minus coelestibus excubiis cuslodita quam maritimis 
 circumvallata fluctibus, jucundum quondam spectaculum proebuit oculis 
 Pontifieiue sollicitudinis. Crux enini Calvarii felicius quam gladius 
 Capitolii in nobilissimo isto regno triumphavit. Laetifieabat (quondam) 
 plane Ecclesiam natio regnatrix Oceani, quae a caetero devicti Orbis 
 famulata in Insulam ipsam, quasi in libertatis arcam segrogata, dum 
 Caesarum fulmina parvi faceret, coluit tonitrua Apostolorum. Decor 
 Libani et gloria Carmeli floruit in Britannia^ senticetis . . Nunc 
 
 autem convertcre istuc oculos non possumus nisi lacrymantes. Nau- 
 fragavit Religio in portu : peccavit Adam in paradiso : v palatio in 
 carcerem sanctitas depulsa cogitur in patria vivere perinde ac in 
 exilio .... Omnes et singulas controversias inter Chalcedonensem 
 Episcopum et regulares sacerdotcs missionaries et Catholicos laicos
 
 438 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 
 
 coke mss. Angliae exortas motas et agitatas perinde sedari volumus. Earum 
 vere omnium cognitionem et judicium ad apostolicam auctoritatem 
 pertinere volumus et decernimus . . . volumus eos omnes libros ad 
 praBsentem dissensionem quolibet modo pertinentes et quocunque 
 idiomate scriptas a fidelium manibus extorqueri, tanquam faces dis- 
 cordiae et flabella seditionis. . . Declaramus coufessiones a regularibus 
 sacerdotibus hactenus auditas validas fuisse et in posterum fore. . . . 
 . . . Caeterum, venerabilis Frater, hortamur fraternitatem tuam ut, 
 memor regionis et tempestatis, haberi istic velis extinctor dissidiorum 
 et excitator dilectionis .... Vos autem, dilecti filii sacerdotes 
 et clerici, enitimini per nomen domini nostri Jesu Christ! ut id ipsum 
 dicatis omnes, et non sint in vobis schismata .... Vos autem, 
 dilecti filii Catholici laici, confortamini et estote robusti in fide, ne 
 hujusmodi dissidiis salus animarum vestrarum periclitetur . . . Com- 
 plectimur vos omnes brachiis apostolicae caritatis, populum Deo 
 placentem, funiculum Dominicae haereditatis, dispersos lapides sanc- 
 tuarii, et praecipuas curas custodientium Angelorum. Certified by M. 
 Angelus Cesius, Curiae Eminentissimi et R mi D. Almae Urbis Vicarii 
 Notarius, and by Martius miseratione divinia tituli S. Mariae Novae, S. 
 R. Ecclesias Diaconus Cardinalis Genettus, S mi D. N. Papae Vicarius 
 Generalis Romanasque Curiae ejusque districtus Judex Ordinarius. 
 
 1631, August 10. Westminster. Humphrey Fulwoode to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, His Majesty's Principal Secretary of State. 
 
 Relates his having delivered letters to Sir W. Beecher and the Lord 
 Treasurer, who went to the Isle of Wight, and next day was summoned 
 to Oatlands, and then went to Sir Richard Tichboi'ne's for 20 days. 
 The Lord Treasurer said (slightly) the business of the Lord Mount- 
 norris was considered of, by which I humbly conceive the Lord 
 Mountnorris will be rendered innocent. The letter, which touched the 
 continuance of the country's contributions, and consisted of many other 
 material particulars, was placed by the Lord Treasurer in his cabinet, 
 but is since missing. If your honour could send the draft, it would be 
 very acceptable to his Lordship. Advances to Sir Thomas Phillips and 
 Mr. Branthwaite for their journeys into Ireland. My Lord of Dor- 
 chester desires your Honour's notes for treating with Marquis Hamil- 
 ton about the levies. I understand them to be for Sir Pierce Crosby, 
 who now upon some dislike is utterly denied, and not permitted to raise 
 any. Sir Tbomas Conway is now upon that design, and is to receive the 
 Sweden moneys out of the hands of the Lord Mackay, who is discharged 
 the Tower, and confined to Greenwich, and two miles about. Mr. Max- 
 well also is confined to Richmond, and three miles thereabouts. News 
 of Don Ferdinando, Cardinal of Spain, being come into Italy, and thence 
 passing by land into Flanders. The Queen Mother of France is thence 
 fled, and arrived near to Brussels. Some of our merchants report they 
 met the Marquis passing through the Sound, he being prevented in his 
 place of landing by the enemy. The last week I was at Tottenham, 
 where I found Mistress Anne Coke, little Jack Elways and his sister, 
 with all the rest of your Honour's family, in very good health ; and in 
 like state I did also leave Mistress Carey yesterday at her house. 
 
 1631, August 10. Termonfeckin. James Usher, Archbishop of 
 Armagh, to the Lord Viscount Falkland, one of the Lords of His 
 Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 The last letters which I did receive from your Lordship in the behalf 
 of Mr. Raymond, I am now forced to answer by recommending him 
 back unto you again. I see sometimes there is so much made of His 
 Majesty's letters, that there must be no dispute made of them : simple
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 439 
 
 obedience they say is required, and not inquiry into the legalness of Cokk mss. 
 the command. Other times I see no such matter, but can observe that 
 even the entertainment of the King's letters themselves goeth by 
 favour, as well as other things. Your Lordship is he that nobly 
 conferred the place upon him ; and in seeing him righted, you do but 
 consummate your own work. He hath none to fly unto for sanctuary 
 but yourself; and to your protection wholly do I leave him. I profess 
 my unfeigned joy for the clearing of your reputation in that honourable 
 manner we have heard of. 
 
 1631, August 12. London. Sir Kenelme Digby to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's most honourable 
 Privy Council. 
 
 It was my bad fortune to wail upon your Honour at Garlick Hill, an 
 hour after you were gone from thence to Tottenham. My main object 
 was to give you thanks for the great obligations your Honour have put 
 upon me. I attended the King at Portsmouth by my Lord Treasurer's 
 command, and His Majesty had very good satisfaction in sight of His 
 ships there. Within 3 or 4 days I shall be gone to my brother 
 Fortescue's house in Buckinghamshire. 
 
 1631, August 16. Termonfeckin. James Ussher, Archbishop of 
 Armagh, to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Secretaries of 
 State. 
 
 It is now a year and more since I received your directions for the 
 prosecution of the business which concerned Owen MacWard. Where 
 the stop lay, I signified unto my Lord Falkland. This I discern that 
 all letters which come from thence are not entertained here with the 
 like respect, although they proceed from the same royal directions, 
 whereof the poor gentleman who is bearer hereof hath found experience 
 to his cost, being now forced to return again unto your honour for 
 succour. His suit seemeth unto me very reasonable, that he should be 
 put in possession of the office granted unto him by his Majesty, until his 
 letters patent be overthrown by course of law. 
 
 1631, August 17. Deptford. Ken: Edisbury to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty, and one of the Lords Com- 
 missioners of the Admiralty of England. 
 
 I relate some passages in our office since your departure into the 
 country. The last year's account is now delivered to the Auditors, 
 amounting to 100,778/. I intended to wait on your Honour on my 
 way to Wales, which for some reasons I have diverted another way, 
 purposing to see how forward Willoughby's provisions are ir the 
 forests of Shotover and Stowood, and then to proceed into the Forest of 
 Dean, to satisfy myself if any from thence to be had at easier rates than 
 elsewhere. I heard that His Majesty had good content at Portsmouth, 
 and was well pleased with the ships there. Sir Kobert Mansell and 
 Captain Pett had all the grace of speech with him ; as I heard by Sir 
 H. Palmer, who told me also that His Majesty sent for all the officers 
 at Godshouse in Portsmouth, and told that he meant to keep 12 ships 
 constantly in that Harbour, and that he would have a new dock made 
 there. If the officers proceed there, and at Chatham, on a charge 
 exceeding the ordinary demands, or this year's estimate, 1 do\ibt we 
 shall exceed our money, 2,000, so that some must fall short of payment. 
 Sir W. Russell and Sir K. Digby had order to computate the charge of 
 six of the second rank of ships to be continued at sea six months 
 manned with 1,500 men, which came to 30,000. I fear the officers 
 do not take business to serious consideration, but pass it over cursorily. 
 I must confess I am not of opinion that things will proceed neither 
 well nor frugally, unless more care and pains be taken in the execution.
 
 440 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CoeeMSS. 1631, August 31. The Antelope. Captain Eichard Plumleigh to Sir 
 
 John Coke, Knight, Secretary of State, at Whitehall. 
 
 From Stokes Bay I set sail on 29th August and arrived in the Downs 
 the last of the same. To-morrow my two months provisions will be 
 on board and I shall be ready for any employment your honour shall be 
 pleased to design me to. The surprisal of the Dunkirker at the Cowes, 
 I cannot certainly affirm : the drunken pilot imagines it to be so, 
 because they went away without him, whom most men think they left 
 voluntarily behind, being an Englishman, and of a most debauched con- 
 dition. The Newfoundland fleet is now upon coming in. The Antelope 
 or St. Claud might give them much security to lie in the channel's 
 mouth. Here is no news of the Bonaventure. God send she shall be 
 well. 
 
 1631, August Indorsed " This was presented to His Majesty, 
 August 1631, at Beiulieu," and by Sir J. Coke "Mr. Nicholas report 
 concerning the Admiral." 
 
 In obedience to your Majesty's command, I have here set down 
 briefly the several parts of the office of Lord High Admiral of England 
 and Ireland. 
 
 The first is that which concerneth tho government order and superin- 
 tendency of your Majesty's royal navy, and other matters of navigation 
 and sea service. 
 
 Secondly, that which concerns matter of judicature in maritime 
 causes and jurisdiction of Admiralty on all the sea coasts of England 
 and Ireland, except within the precincts of the Cinque Ports, and the 
 members thereof. 
 
 Thirdly, the Lord Admiral hath now given him by particular Letters 
 patents under the Great Seal to issue (as well in time of peace as war) 
 commissions to any persons to take pirates. And his Lordship usually 
 reserveth an 8th or 10th part (more or less) of the benefit thereof unto 
 himself. 
 
 Fourthly, the Lord Admiral hath by especial and particular Letters 
 patents, power to issue letters of marque and reprisal (in time of hos- 
 tility). 
 
 Now it rests in your Majesty's wisdom, to resolve when you shall 
 think fit to constitute such an officer, what part or parts of this office 
 you will reserve in your Crown, and what thereof you will bestow on 
 him. 
 
 What your Majesty shall reserve may be either not mentioned in the 
 Letters patents (whereby you grant that office) or if mentioned it may 
 be only exclusively which will the better clear your Majesty's intention 
 therein. 
 
 1631, September 3. Bagshot. Sir H. Vane to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 His Majesty, understanding that the Bishop of Man is lately dead, 
 His pleasure is that your honour attend my Lord Grace of Canterbury, 
 to receive from him directions for the preparing of letters concerning 
 the new election of the said Bishop for his Majesty to sign.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 441 
 
 1631, September 10. Extract of a letter from the Elector of Saxe Coke mss. 
 his Camp. 
 
 Having been here in person I write what I know. The King of 
 Sweden, knowing Tilly with his army to be before us, came to the 
 Elector, and helped him to put his army in battle a'ray. Tilly 
 appeared upon a hill near thegallone of Leipsic (for all the armies were 
 betwixt Leipsic, Halle and Eilenburg), and began to draw downward. I 
 heard the King say " We have not to hunt a hare, but a bear ; do you 
 but your duty, and assure yourselves that I know how to play the 
 hunter, that he shall not overcome you : for I am to defend a just cause 
 and withal a King's head and two Electors coats. How can I doubt 
 but God will assist me ? " Tilly gave a full onset on the Electoral army 
 with many regiments, and as it were defeated us : the brave King did so 
 favour us, as the enemy was wholly defeated. We got all his ordnance. 
 Tilly fled towards Halle. I have already told 150 cornets and colours, 
 yet I saw not all. The King having gotten the victory [torn] Army, 
 fell upon his knees and gave present [torn] to God for it. The King is 
 never angry nor troubled, still ready in his mind as if he knew all things 
 before they come to pass. The King had and yet hath about 17,000; 
 amongst which are 2,000 Finlanders,' who still fight where the King 
 fighteth, and whose courage cannot be comprehended. I do not think 
 that any of them ever fled, or can fly, and all his army are more 
 desirous to fight than to rob or play, as we and all the Imperialists have 
 always done. The word the King gave us was God with us. 
 Tilly had given Jesu Maria ... I do hear the ways betwixt Halle and 
 Moersburg are sown as full of dead bodies as betwixt the Camp and 
 Halle, where the battle was fought ... A horseman prisoner heard 
 Tilley say oftentimes, he would to God he had been slain. 
 
 A list of such eminent persons as were killed and hurt in the battle. 
 
 An Extract of several other letters. 
 
 (Many particulars of the war in other parts of Germany.) 
 
 It is hard to write where the King is, being one day in one action, 
 and that night riding post to another far off, for he loseth no time. 
 
 The King of Sweden hath sent Tilly's body up to Albstrat with his 
 own troops, with 18 trumpets and 3 kettledrums, which is there set in 
 the Great Church for all men to see. 
 
 1631, September 17. Westminster. Captain Thomas Chamberlayne to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries of 
 State, and one of His Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 His Majesty was pleased to give me his royal letters this last year 
 unto the Emperor of Russia, and the Patriarch, for the obtaining of a 
 licence that I might bring from thence 100,000 quarters of wheat for my 
 ready money, as also for the relief of this kingdom being visited with a 
 "Teat dearth. One Captain Steward by the indirect dealing of some 
 whom 1 employed came to the view of His Majesty's letters. He 
 procured other letters for Harvey and Which e, and three more letters 
 were obtained by other men, all for the same quantities of corn, which 
 coming unto the Emperor all at one instant did highly impeach the 
 honour of the King's letters. Those folks whom I employed, meeting 
 with Captain Steward at Elsinore, they associating themselves together 
 unto the confines of Russia, where they resided one month ; in which 
 time Captain Steward steals away from them suddenly, and did use his 
 best endeavours at the Moscow to stop my agents that they should not 
 present His Majesty's letters in my particular to the Emperor and
 
 442 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CoebMSS. Patriarch ; which was done maliciously to my utter overthrow, and to 
 hindrance of the relief of this kingdom, whereby many poor creatures 
 did perish which by my industry and just proceedings might have been 
 prevented by bringing in this proportion of corn. I have at this instant 
 presented unto His Majesty a service touching the bringing in of corn 
 yearly to raise unto the Crown 50,000/. per annum for ever. 
 
 1631, September 18, Chatham New Dock. William Cooke to Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 Asks that his brother James Cooke who has served boatswain of the 
 Moon may be boatswain" of the Conver tine. " Committing you to the 
 protection of the Almighty whom bless Amen, your Honour in all duty." 
 The 4th of this present month I entered aboard of the Hendereta ; 
 please God I will be careful in this employment. 
 
 1631, September 20, London. Emanuel Downinge to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty, and one of His Highness' 
 honourable Privy Council. 
 
 I grieve the Lord of B. is come over to purchase the land granted to 
 Mr. Read : but I hope no importunity of his shall frustrate this good 
 work which may be done by a plantation there. If your Honour 
 shall think fit to give him a recompence, as though the land were really 
 his and to be taken from him for His Majesty's service, and to be planted 
 with English, then your Honour may procure him a proportion in 
 Connaught, Wicklow, or Ormond, which will fall into His Majesty's 
 hands to be planted. Now by this removal you shall imitate the 
 ancient policy of this state there, as when a plantation was extended in 
 the East, then the principal heads of the Irish were removed and 
 planted in the West, and e contra ; so when Queen Elizabeth planting 
 the Queen's County removed the principal Irish into the County of 
 Kerry, where, being from their allegiance and friends, had no power to 
 do any hurt. A second benefit is this where such Irish are planted in 
 foreign parts among the English, they commonly take most if not all the 
 envy of the remaining natives from the English. Judge Mayart writes 
 to me out of Ireland, that a priest in Westmeath went into one of our 
 churches to say mass, and as he entered the church he said " Fogh ! I 
 smell the stink of a Protestant ;" and before he would say mass, caused 
 the people to dig up the body being buried there, and throw it into a 
 bog. 
 
 1631, September 21. Emanuel Downinge to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Priucipal Secretary to His Majesty and one of His Highness' 
 honourable Privy Council. 
 
 In the enclosed two things are that may make the Lord of Brittas be 
 well content to go away with the profits already received and be glad to 
 escape so. Please to read the indorsement and a few lines of the latter 
 end of the letter. 
 
 1631, September 23. His Majesty's ship the Antelope in Gore 
 end. Captain Richard Plumleigh to Sir John Coke, Knight, Secretary of 
 State, at Whitehall. 
 
 It was my fortune to speak with one of those two merchants from 
 whom the Frenches demanded their flag. They shot at the English some 
 dozen shots, and received from the English the like entertainment, with 
 the loss of one man by which they sat down and gave over their pretences. 
 Tis a wonder to me that they dare make use of the king's ports and 
 commit these insoiencies, without fearing to be there stayed and questioned 
 for them.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSORIVTS COMMISSION. 443 
 
 It hath always been my principal aim to preserve His Majesty's naval Coke MSS. 
 honour both in his own seas and abroad, and for my part I think it were 
 better that both I and the ship under my charge were in the bottom of 
 the sea, than that I should live to see a Frenchman or any other nation 
 wear a flag aloft in His Majesty's seas, and suffer them to pass unfought 
 withal. Of the Dragon which Captain Penington met I have heard, 
 and the Captain's liberal language, as that His Majesty's predecessor 
 had no right to the superiority of the Narrow Seas but by the pope's 
 donation, which ceased to be of force cum ipsi desierint esse Romanistae ; 
 and that his Master was resolved to shoulder for a share ere long, with 
 many such like French rhodomontadoes. 1 dare engage my head that 
 with five of His Majesty's ships I will always clear the way to all French 
 flagmaster3, yea, and make them strike to him upon those which they call 
 their own seas. I am persuaded they came to wait for Kirk's coming 
 from Canada ; he will make them take eggs for their money. This 
 summer I was at the Texel in Holland where come in divers French, and 
 though the Hollanders bade me domineer at home in England, yet I 
 forbore not to fetch down their flags with my ordnance. Of late I have 
 been very sickly and fear a consumption to which I have been often 
 subject. I desire that at my return I may be permitted to come to 
 London for a fortnight. 
 
 1631, September 25, Westminster. Edward Nicholas, Secretary to 
 the Admiralty, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State 
 to His Majesty, at Court. 
 
 When the order upon the business between the Portuguese and the 
 Hollanders should be signed my Lord Treasurer commanded it should be 
 brought this day to Court, and then he with the rest would set their 
 hands to it. My lameness disables me for the present. I have herein sent 
 the petition of the Portuguese and their Lordships order subscribed, which 
 I beseech your honour to present. The Portuguese press to have the 
 order despatched that the goods may be landed and put in safety before 
 the Michaelmas storms come. 
 
 1631, September 26. Strand. C. Countess of Huntingdon to Sir 
 J. Coke at Tottenham. 
 
 Asks that Sir J. Coke will do my Lord the favour to afford his 
 presence at the business concerning the forest, referred to Lord Treasurer, 
 Lord Privy Seal, Lord Dorset, Lord Dorchester and Sir J. Coke. 
 
 1631, October 12. Bolsover. W. Cavendish, Earl of Newcastle, to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to his Majesty, and one of 
 His Majesty's most honourable privy Council. 
 
 Give me leave to acquaint you with a foul accident lately fallen out 
 at Pomfret. One John Harecourt, a servant to my Lord Savile, was 
 arrested at my suit by one Bramam a serjeant of that town ; whereupon 
 Harecourt stabbed Bramam with a dagger, so that he died immediately. 
 The foulness of this fact being done in the execution of His Majesty's 
 writ, will scarce give encouragement to any one to favour such an 
 offender. Being moved by the wife and some other of his friends that is 
 thus slain, I entreat you to acquaint His Majesty therewith ; and if any 
 petition for His Majesty's pardon be preferred, to make stay of it, that 
 he who hath offended the law in so high a nature may by a legal course 
 make satisfaction. 
 
 1631, October 14. Chatham. Henry Goddard to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Sends his son to learn what rates of ships it is proposed to build, that 
 he be not unfurnished with a plot when called upon. As he has made 
 choice to build at Deptford Dock, desires to have a warrant to remove 
 thither before winter.
 
 444 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 CokeMSS. iQ 3 i f October 17. Dublin. H. Shurley, Lord Cbief Justice of Ireland, 
 
 to Sir Jobn Coke, His Majesty's Principal Secretary of State in 
 England. 
 
 Thanks for your many favours showed towards me, by which I have 
 been much encouraged to proceed with recusancy (?) in the King's 
 service. 
 
 1631, October 18. Trinity College, Cambridge. Doctor Henry Goche 
 to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I received your letter in behalf of my Lord Chamberlain. The Com- 
 pany of Seniors have read His Majesty's letters. In respect of their as 
 yet imperfect knowledge of the value of the lease, they crave pardon for 
 their resolution until our audit. The College, I doubt not, he shall then 
 find so respective unto his Lordship, that be shall have the first refusal 
 thereof. 
 
 1631, October 21. Thomas Morton, Bishop of Coventry and 
 Lichfield, to Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Salutem in Christo Jesu. I would be known to be by many bonds 
 of friendship obliged to your family original in Derbyshire, and in 
 testimony thereof do signify to you that the Lord Bishop of Bangor 
 [Lewis Bayly, Prebendary of Colwich], being, as I am credibly 
 informed not like to recover his health, you may obtain his prebendary 
 in Lichfield by His Majesty's mandate unto me for the prevention of 
 some other who are now about it. 
 
 1631, October 21 (O.S.). Vienna. Sir Eobert Anstruther to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State, and of His Majesty's 
 most honourable Privy Council, at Court. For His Majesty's special 
 service. 
 
 I wrote by an express of the |f ult. who should give your punctual 
 account of our business here, with my sense and observations upon it. 
 This express hath directions to His Majesty and my Lord Dorchester. 
 I am in hope that though the success and my expectations are different 
 somewhat, yet you will find my carriage to have been such therein as 
 will keep me in your good esteem. I humbly entreat your wonted 
 favourable audience to his relations, and I hope you will by him find 
 the particular atate of mine own affairs to be worthy of your considera- 
 tion and aid. 
 
 1631, October 26. His lodging. Captain Richard Plumleighe. 
 (No address.) 
 
 My lieutenant informs me that the 18th of this month, in the night, 
 the supplies designed for Flanders passed through the Channel for 
 Dunkirk, 16 Galleons, 10 men-of-war, and 4 merchants, all fraught 
 with soldiers and ammunition. The Hollanders, 12 in number, 
 descrying the Spanish lights, weighed anchor and stood after 
 them but did nothing, either thinking them no good bargain, or by 
 reasons of the weather. The Fifth Whelp company in Ireland are in 
 a mutiny, to be imputed to the indiscretion and want of judgment of 
 the commander. The Antelope is still in the Downs, crossed by 
 contrary winds from going to the westward. I thank God I am 
 somewhat recovered and hope speedily to return to her. 
 
 1631, October 30. Bolsover. W. Cavendish, Earl of Newcastle, to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty, and one 
 of His Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 I think myself much obliged to you for acquainting His Majesty 
 with that unfortunate accident, and am well assured through your
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 445 
 
 favour that nothing will he done in this particular to prejudice justice, coke MSS. 
 
 The widow, children, and father are very poor and simple, and for my 
 
 part in this, because it was my business, I mean to give them something 
 
 and leave them to themselves, so little malice have I, or thirsting after 
 
 life, for I protest to God I would not do it for a world. Some 
 
 did infinitely brag how soon they would have a pardon for him, and 
 
 they say that the man that committed the fact walked confidently York 
 
 Streets like an innocent. I beseech God hless the King and his to the 
 
 world's end, and make them the happiest monarchs in their due times 
 
 that ever reigned. 
 
 1631, November 6. Captain Richard Plumleighe to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State, Whitehall. 
 
 This inclosed letter came late last night to my hands from Captain 
 Stradling. If the contents be true I am heartily sorry for my Lord 
 Marquis his misfortune, to be thus dishonourably abandoned by his 
 soldiers ; and more sorry that so great a blemish should light upon our 
 nation as to forsake their Commander for a little sufferance. 
 
 1631, November 11. George, Lord Goring, to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty. 
 
 I shall here be an humble suitor to you for your favour in joining 
 with some other of my good friends for the procuring the Vice- Admiral's 
 place of Lincolnshire (which Sir Clement Cotterell lately enjoyed) for 
 Sir Philip Landon (?) one of His Majesty's gentlemen pensioners, and 
 as worthy an honest man as serves amongst us. 
 
 1631, November 12. Kingsland. Doctor John Hughes to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to the King's Majesty, at his lodging 
 in Whitehall, London. 
 
 I had no good success in my suit at Hereford. The next day 
 after you had written to our Dean for me, Doctor Skinner our 
 Chancellor went with all speed from London in company with our Dean 
 and got to Hereford one day before me. There being five voices in all 
 he got three, and was admitted by voices with little respect to the 
 statute. I have preached often every year this 12 year in that 
 Cathedral Church ; but Doctor Skinner never, nor elsewhere in that 
 Diocese : it may be he hath at some time preached in a benefice which 
 he holdeth in Kent, and that was all that could be said for his being 
 " concionator doctus et sedulus" according to the statute. I have 
 manifest wrong, yet I know not how to be righted. 1 rather incline 
 to entreat your honour's favour to the King and to my Lord Bishop of 
 London for Borne other spiritual preferment, as a prebend in Worcester, 
 or something in the Diocese of Bangor where I was born. I was 
 first crossed by Canons who were averse to the Bishop of Hereford, to 
 whose daughter I was sometime married, but at last by the Bishop's 
 friends, as by his Chancellor and his son Dr. Godwin who is one of the 
 Canons. 
 
 1631, November 15. Deptford. Edward Falkener to Sir J. Coke, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty, and one of the Lords Commis- 
 sioners for the Admiralty of England. 
 
 The many and unsupportable injuries which I have formerly 
 received and daily increase upon me by the froward disposition of Mr. 
 Wells enforce me to fly to your honourable protection for relief. You 
 know his opposition to my proceeding in a contract begun in Mr. 
 BurrelFs lifetime, for the taking in and issuing out all provisions for 
 His Majesty's service at Deptford at I2d. per ton or load. There
 
 446 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 were many provisions of several natures redelivered into His Majesty's 
 stores upon the return of the last three great fleets whereof no notice 
 was taken by any but himself (Mr. Wells) and what account could be 
 given thereof (if it were demanded) God knoweth. 
 
 1631, November 15. Preston. John Powell to his son-in-law Sir 
 J. Coke. 
 
 Thanks for procuring grant from His Majesty of the stumps and 
 roots of the trees in the Forest of Dean ; asks that the farmers of the 
 iron works there may be prevented, in taking benefit of the Lord 
 Treasurer's warrant, to take the best stumps and roots nearest to his 
 daughter's works, and force her to go further off for worse wood and 
 greater charge in carriage. They have lately given order to root up all 
 the oaken trees within their felletts and leave no stumps. 
 
 1631, November 18. Lockow. T. Gilbert to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, one of His Majesty's principal Secretaries of State. 
 
 I repaired to Risley, and told the knight I was now come according 
 to his appointment to know his resolution concerning the motion I made 
 for his daughter, whereupon he, pausing a little, told me it was a very 
 hard matter to find a religious staid young man, w T hich was a chief 
 part of his care. I made bold to tell him that God in this motion I 
 hoped had provided him such a religious young well staid gent for his 
 daughter as I thought he would not parallel for his time. He asked 
 me whether he did not or had not sometime belonged to the Earl of 
 Shrewsbury or Arundel. I told him he had never belonged to any 
 nobleman, but had spent his time in study and in Gray's Inn ; and 
 further I told him he had an uncle which those Lords did well love 
 and respect, which both in his life and death did well manifest his 
 religion of protestancy. He said it would be very difficult for him to 
 match with great men and privy Councillors. He thought there should 
 be an interview of the parties before any propositions were made ; and 
 that if liking or appearance of liking might grow or appear, the other 
 matters might sooner be agreed upon. He said my cousin should be 
 very welcome at his own time. I beseech your Honour when you 
 shall be pleased to send my cousin John into Derbyshire, let him 
 command my house for the time of his abode there. 
 
 1631, November 25. Durham House. R. Willis, Secretary to Lord 
 Keeper Coventry, to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the principal 
 Secretaries of State. 
 
 My Lord's Chaplain hath resigned back to him the Prebend of 
 Southwell, as being but a small thing, not worth his travel to York. 
 My Lord commands me to send you this message, that if you please to 
 send the party to him for whom you spake, his Lordship will presently 
 grant it to him. Whereof (if he be a friend of your Honour), I shall 
 also be glad, my son being lately installed in one of the prebends there, 
 and there is now in town one of the residentiaries that will be able to 
 give good light of the value of it. [Prebends of Woodborough and 
 North Muskham in Southwell Collegiate Church, granted to Peter 
 Mease (formerly tutor to Sir J. Coke's sons) and Henry Willis.] 
 
 1631 (?). The Earl of Lindsay's reasons in justification of his 
 patent concerning Shotover and Stowood. For the right honorable the 
 Lord AVent worth, President of his Majesty's Council at York. 
 
 There are now standing in Shotover and Stowood, in the County oi 
 Oxon, 26,000 oaks. Of these 14,000 are marked out for his Majesty's 
 navy : that is to say, 10,000 of a lesser gi-owth to serve for future
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 447 
 
 times, and 4,000 great trees to be cut down for present service if Coke^MSS. 
 occasion should so require. Of these trees were caused to be fallen by 
 a shipwright the last summer 400 of the very best in Shotover and 100 
 in StQwood. 
 
 Of the 400 in Shotover there are carried away 360, which have 
 yielded as delivered into his Majesty's Timber Yards but 179 load and 
 32 foot and ^ of plank, which would not yield here about London to be 
 sold above 400 J. The charge of working these planks and bringing 
 them up by land and water hath stood his Majesty and the country 
 in near about 400/. : so as, in effect, those 360 trees, which would have 
 yielded to his Majesty in the wood above 700/., are utterly lost, 
 
 I have now in possession by virtue of his Majesty's grant about 
 12,000 trees standing, but so unreasonably lopt and topt and cut off 
 in the middle by Sir Timothy Terrell and his keepers, that most of 
 them will suddenly die, and become decayed, and so wash all away 
 in officers fees ; but if they or any of them will serve for the King's 
 navy, I am very well content to sell them to any of his Majesty's officers 
 of the navy, so as I may have present money for the same. Whereas 
 the Doctors in the University have objected that if I enjoy my patent 
 it will much damage them, herein they are much mistaken, as I shall 
 show to the contrary. The underwoods are the main benefit that 
 concern the town of Oxon, and as for them I find them so shamefully 
 spoiled (as appeareth by returns of divers commissions) that they are 
 little worth, and yield unto the town but little relief of firewood. On 
 the other side, I am so bound by my patent to plant, -and do now 
 so order them for mine own profit, that, for every load they have now, 
 they shall have supplied very shortly four or five. 
 
 I have but 12,000 trees in all that will serve for the use of building, 
 and of them 6,000 are very unfit for that purpose : so no hurt can 
 come unto the Town, for they may buy as many as they will. I must 
 needs say the truth, they have no need of them ; for the Colleges have 
 in Stanton woods, in Tubny woods, in Bagly woods, in Fyfield woods, 
 and divers other woods, all near to Oxon, within the compass of 
 two, three and four mile3, many millions of oaks far better than any in 
 Shotover. 
 
 1631. Endorsed by Sr. John Coke, " William Willoughby's pur- 
 veyance in Shotover." An account of proceeds of 280 trees felled and 
 carried between May and December 1630, cost 177/., recouped by sales 
 86/., delivered at Deptford Yard 203 loads of plank and knee timber. 
 
 1630 (probably 1631-2), January 7, aboard the Great James in 
 Port Sualy. Tho : Kastell to Sir John Coke, Knight, and principal 
 Secretary to His Majesty of England, at his house in Garlick Hythe, 
 London. 
 
 [Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " 1631, January 7, Son Rastalf from 
 Surat in India."] 
 
 So many have been your Honour's favours in the ready furtherance 
 of my many troublesome suits at Court and so much to the benefit 
 redounding both to me and mine under the shadow of your protection 
 * * hereby you shall understand of our fleet's safe arrival here 
 in India * * we had to struggle with war and dearth * the 
 enemy being prevented of their dangerous fire plots on our ships in this 
 narrow pool of Sualy, and failed on the shore upon equal terms with 
 tho loss of 100 of their white Portuguese and 27 taken alive. Our 
 other general affairs made difficult by the universal famine over all this 
 continent and the King's war with Deccan. * * The delivery of 
 His Majesty's letter to the Mogul I have as yet deferred, partly
 
 448 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 
 
 Coke MSS. resolving to have the honour of its presentation myself, especially now 
 that he is so near as Burhanpoor within ten days travel from hence, 
 bordering on the Deccan's country, waiting on the event of the war 
 with his rebellious servant Khan Jehan. * The Persian confining on 
 the contrary part of India will doubtless distui'b the design. * He 
 may divert his force upon the Portuguese to castigate their late 
 insolent affronts against his regality, in which case he will expect 
 our naval aids, which I intend to avoid ; and therein I suppose the 
 Dutch will follow our example * * but they are a false people not 
 to rely on, no not so much as in a reciprocal defence ; who to expose 
 us to the single brunt against a never like expected force in India have 
 this year dispensed with all trade to their great disprofit and purposely 
 withheld their usual supply of shipping to these parts in hopes of some 
 fatal stroke that might extinguish all our encouragement. * * The 
 trade with Persia goeth prosperously on, if this year not hindered 
 by intestine war in Ghilan. * * Captain Bickel, commander of the 
 Discovery, will deliver a Japon Scrittore (Japan Escritoire) which 
 your honour will vouchsafe to accept as an acknowledgement of my 
 obligation. I recommend my disconsolate wife and little ones to your 
 favour. 
 
 1631-2, January 9. Donington. Henry Hastings, Earl of Hunting- 
 don, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 My wife at her return acknowledged how much you had obliged us 
 to you. I desire the continuance of your assistance, acknowledging 
 myself much bound both to yourself and the Lords, for so noble and 
 favourable an answer given to my wife, upon her moving and soliciting 
 my suit which hath been of many years continuance. Concerning 
 Melbourne I sought your convenience and profit with my own. The 
 inhabitants of Melbourne and I are at an end of all suits and in the 
 general agreed for a general inclosure. When the conditions are drawn 
 up I will send them to you. I pray you send word to your bailiff that 
 you are content to have your land admeasured. The next summer 
 at your coming down I make no question but there will be an absolute 
 conclusion amongst us all. There can be nothing done till the quantity 
 of every man's land be known. (Seal Earl's coronet, a bull's head in 
 a ducal coronet, " Honorantes me honorabo.") 
 
 1631-2, January 16. Drogheda. James Ussher, Archbishop of 
 Armagh, to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Secretaries of 
 State. 
 
 I find William Nugent to be uncle unto James Nugent the convert 
 who liveth in my house. He was first prior of the Dominicans in 
 Mullingar, and after at Dublin. He was bred at Salamanca, and is 
 esteemed a learned man and for managing of politic business thought 
 not inferior to any of that sort. Smith (otherwise called Gowan) is 
 supposed to be he who was bred at Douay, and was nephew to Hugh 
 Canell, the late Popish Primate. This is all for the present I can learn 
 touching these men. 
 
 1631-2, January 22. " Copy of an acquittance of Sir Charles Morgan 
 of several sums received in Amsterdam." Acknowledgment, in French, of 
 moneys received by order of Phillip Burlamachi de Londres to discharge 
 monies due to the Fourniers and the Coi-donniers of Staden and to 
 persons of Friesland amounting together to 4,967 Rix dollars. 
 
 1631-2, February 2. Dublin. Sir John Bingley to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 As to a business referred to Commissioners by order in the Star 
 Chamber. There are present eight of the former witnesses ready to
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 449 
 
 avouch what they formerly deposed, and more also if the interrogatories CoKE 5ISS - 
 lead them. If those drawn in England be not ample, I will supply 
 them to the full. 
 
 1631-2, February 4. Massachusetts Bay. Richard Saltonstall to 
 Emanuel Downing, Esquire, at the Bishop's Head in Fleet Street, 
 near the Conduit in London. Received 10th May 1632. 
 
 Since my arrival in !New England, I have endeavoured to give a true 
 and faithful relation of such things as come within my observation. 
 The country abounds with good creatures needful for sustentation of 
 the life of man. When we have liberty from building and inclosing 
 of grounds for the safety of our cattle from wolves, 1 doubt not but 
 we shall raise good profit not only by our fishiug trade, but by hemp, 
 flax, pitch, tar, potashes, soapashes, masts, pipestaves, clapboards, and 
 iron. Therefore, good Sir, encourage men to come over. If gentlemen 
 of ability would transport themselves, they might advance their own 
 estates, and might improve their talents and times in being worthy 
 instruments of propagating the Gospel to these poor barbarous people. 
 I pray you send over by some of your East country merchants to get 
 some few master workmen for the ordering of our potash work. 
 
 1631-2, February 5. Corpus Christi College, Cambridge. Doctor 
 Henry Butt, Vice Chancellor of Cambridge, to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 Lord Brooke sent Mr. Mallett and some others to our University 
 Counsel, Serjeant Byng, to consider of the Codicil of the late Lord 
 Brooke's will wherein the History Lecture is bequeathed. It appears 
 doubtful whether it could be made sure without an Act of Parliament. 
 Mr. Mallett seemeth confident it may be made good by a Decree in the 
 Chancery. If your Honour think it may and you will be pleased 
 to acquaint my Lord Keeper with it, if it may be done by decree of 
 Chancery we shall be right glad, otherwise it were much to the honour 
 of the Lord Brooke that now is to found it anew himself. 
 
 1631-2, February 22. Whitehall. Henry Rich, Earl of Holland, to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State. 
 
 Upon the petition of Sir Thomas Dutton, His Majesty is pleased to 
 recommend the consideration of his service, and the means and way of 
 his satisfaction, unto our very good lords the Lord Treasurer, the Lord 
 Chamberlain, and the Lord of Dorset ; and that you should certify so 
 much to their Lordships under his petition. 
 
 1631-2, February 23. Viscount Falkland to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Sole and Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty. 
 
 The points which remain to accomplish my business touching Sir 
 Arthur Savadge are these two. 
 
 1. Lord Keeper to be informed that it is His Majesty's pleasure that 
 Sir Arthur Savadge's fine be estreated into the Exchequer, and to pray 
 his Lordship's speedy and express warrant for it. 
 
 2. That Mr. Attorney do know it is His Majesty's will that he issue 
 process out of the Exchequer here into Ireland for the immediate levy 
 of it there, and that the process be delivered to me to send over and 
 prosecute to effect. 
 
 Hie labor hoc opus est. 
 
 1631-2, February 26. Middleton. Christopher Fulwood to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State unto His Majesty, at his 
 house at Garlick Hill near Cheapside. 
 
 The tenants of Overhaddon inform me that it is your pleasure I shall 
 draw a lease of your lands there unto them for three years, but I forbear 
 U 24963. f F
 
 450 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. until I hear from you. Mr. Herbert offereth to sell Brassiugton, and 
 if you can have it for 300 I think it well given. Your letter to 
 Mr. Gilbert I gave to my clerk to put up safe in the cloak bag. I am 
 afraid it is left in my chamber at London. I did lie with Mr. Gilbert 
 at my coming down, and told him that you had taken the pains to write 
 a letter of three sides of paper unto him, and I did acquaint him with 
 all the particulars of it, for by good fortune you pleased to read it to 
 me. Sir F. Coke and he have met. I perceive by Mr. Gilbert that 
 Sir Francis [Henry] Willoughby much desireth to have a meeting 
 sooner than your coming down. Mr. Gilbert tells me that Sir Thomas 
 Burdett hath sold so much of his land as he hath paid all his debts 
 and left a thousand per annum still, and besides hath some of the 
 moneys upon the sale left. He thinks if it be your pleasure a fitting 
 time to let somewhat be spoken touching a match between his son and 
 your daughter Mistress Mary, for he thinks no great portion will be 
 now stood upon. 
 
 1631-2, February 27. Viscount Falkland to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty. 
 
 Asks whether Sir Arthur Savadge's fine was ordered to be estreated. 
 I could wish you would demand of my Lord Treasurer what certificate 
 you shall make to the King on my daughter's petition in the name of 
 Thomas Phelps. I desire ail resolutions might come by you, that the 
 acknowledgments might be the more entire which are due and must be 
 tendered unto you by your honour's humble servant. 
 
 1631-2, March 1. Chatham. Sir Henry Palmer to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 The ships will be ready to go to sea as soon as your Lordships shall 
 be pleased to appoint commanders. I think it were very fit that the 
 masters were known to make choice of their mates and quartermasters 
 to make a survey of the contents and condition of the victuals. 
 
 1631-2, March 1. Dublin. Sir John Bingley to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 My last letters were by the Lord of Ranelagh. The articles and 
 Warrant sent by the late Lord Treasurer Salisbury to the Attorney for 
 the drawing of the Londoners' patent we have here but by a copy. I 
 have received many papers from Sir Thomas Phillips. I find wanting 
 the answers that the then Lord Deputy, Lord Primate, and most of the 
 then Commissioners agreed on and signed by the Lord Caulfield and 
 myself ; and also the paper of the admeasurements of 5 of the 12 pro- 
 portions signed by Mr. Raven the Londoners' then Surveyor. The 
 Commission was opened the 20th day of this month. All the six 
 Commissioners are here. Sir John Vaughan carries himself well, and 
 I think he will continue, for the Lord Justices did exceeding well and 
 worthily, and merit sending thanks, for they came to the opening of 
 the Commission in state. There was no authority to make good the 
 examinations taken upon the former Commission, aiul which 1 supplied 
 before the opening. I have prevailed with the Londoners' Agents to 
 open their duplicate at the Berry, the loth of March. I go northward 
 to prepare the witnesses and to countenance them, for some of those 
 that were examined upon the former Commission have been threatened, 
 quarrelled, and imprisoned. The Londoners' Agents desire to have 
 Sir William Parsons examined on their part, which he is not willing 
 unto: all that was done in the business when he was iu London was 
 in Council, in the Xing' s presence or the Lords.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 451 
 
 1631-2, March 3. Dublin. R. Boston (?), Lord Chief Baron in Coke_MSS. 
 Ireland, to Sir Henry Holcroft. 
 
 The bearer, Edmund Gessell, foreign opposer of the Court of 
 Exchequer iu Ireland, is deserving of a higher allowance. I desire 
 you will be pleased for my sake to intercede in his behalf with his 
 Majesty's Chief Secretary. 
 
 1631--2, March 6. John Waddon, Mayor of Plymouth, to Sir John 
 Coke, one of His Majesty's most honourable Privy Council and 
 Secretary of State. 
 
 You shall here inclosed receive the examination of Robert Dunster, 
 a scholar, apprehended here, having been bred in foreign universities 
 by the space of sixteen years, and now again about to travel without a 
 license from the Lords of the Privy Council. He hath taken the oath 
 of allegiance, but his examination shows no other cause of his travel 
 than to gain preferment at Rome. According to your and their 
 Lordships direction I have sent him to London by pass from tithing 
 to tithing there to answer. 
 
 1631-j!, March 7. Lincolns Inn. William Noye, Attorney General, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I have perused the contract which you sent, and have been bold in 
 some places to alter it a little. The paper book concerning the fishing 
 with the signatures sent from Scotland I delivered to Mr. Hay who was 
 very earnest to have them. The pay book, which was drawn by your 
 honour and was interlined by His Majesty, I sent to yourself, as many 
 things are before determining to be considered; as the laws of Scotland 
 inhibiting selling of lish to the English, whether they were repealed 
 there when many hostile laws were repealed here I know not. The 
 work is as good as great, and for effecting of it all must forego some- 
 thing that otherwise they would desire. I received letters out of Ireland 
 from Sir Thomas Phillips ; he sent inclosed a list of popish priests har- 
 boured in that plantation. 
 
 1631-2, March 13. East Hampstead Park. W. Trumbull to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty. 
 
 Sithenco the month of my last attendance, an order Avas left at my 
 lodgings, and a bond of 1,000/. entered into by Thomas Heath remaining 
 in my custody was required to be delivered to Mr. Mcauty's to be put 
 in suit by the Attorney General for the benefit of the Lady Slingesby. 
 But a warrant signed by your honour's own hand was showed unto me 
 containing a grant of the forfeiture of the same bond to the Muscovy 
 Company Adventurers to Greenland. I havo forborne to part with the 
 Bond. It is just and reasonable that my obedience should be warranted 
 by special directions to save me harmless. I beseech two words under 
 your hand to direct me the way I am to walk in, in a business so much 
 perplexed as this is. 
 
 1631-2, March 15. Sir Edward Bagshawe to Adam, Lord Viscount 
 Loftus of Ely, one of the Lords Justices and Lord Chancellor of 
 Ireland. 
 
 I received from your Lordship special letters from the Right Honour- 
 able i he Duchess of Buckingham her Grace concerning her affairs in 
 this kingdom in general and for the speedy effecting of some speeial 
 service therein expressed. What is required shall be effected within 
 the time limited. I intend with the first fair wind to be the messenger 
 myself for the delivery thereof. 
 
 f p 2
 
 452 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 1631-2, March 17. Prinknesh, Ludlow. Sir John Brydgeman to Sir 
 
 John Coke, Knight, His Majesty's Priucipal Secretary and one of His 
 
 Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 As I have many ways found your noble favours unto me so I must 
 ever acknowledge myself much obliged to your honour, for that I under- 
 stood by Mr. Solicitor at my last being in London, concerning a petition 
 preferred to His Majesty touching the deathof one John Owen of Mont- 
 gomeryshire, and a certificate made by myself and my associate to His 
 Majesty in that business, whereupon His Majesty was pleased to pardon 
 the offence. I was very desirous then to have waited upon your honour, 
 and had so done, but that being instantly to go into the country by the 
 command of the Lords of the Council, for the execution of a commission 
 of oyer and terminer about the riots in the Forest of Dean. 
 
 1631-2, March 19. Dublin. Richard Boyle, Earl of Cork, to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, His Majpsty's Principal Secretary at Court. 
 
 Having this day received from the Mayor of Waterford letters wherein 
 some things are related meet for your knowlege I transmit so much 
 thereof as this inclosed paper will discover unto you. I suspect that the 
 Turk will again attempt something this summer upon the western coasts 
 of this kingdom ; for prevention it Avere expedient Sir Thomas were 
 presently commanded over hither. Captain Hooke is now a graving 
 and rigging at Bristol. I am sorry I have no encouragement either to 
 command his service or diligence. It will be very expedient that he, 
 who loves to live and spend the King's victuals in harbour, be by some 
 express command hastened thence hither, for commonly in April the 
 pirates begin to appear here to impeach the passage and traffic, which 
 the presence of that ship, if returned timely, may prevent. 
 
 1632, April 4. Exeter. Christopher Manwaringe to Thomas Par- 
 ramore, Esquire, at his house in London. 
 
 I did the more pity you in this business to see into what labyrinth I 
 had cast you. All mediums in such cases are taken out of five or seven 
 years out of the Customs Book, cast up communibus annis, for those years 
 is still the true medium, and is done by one of the King's Auditors 
 offering a third part more than that medium shall amount unto for the 
 King's rent. And if you in your next letter do acquaint me what the 
 Lords are to have by agreement betwixt you, I shall then upon a true 
 ground rightly judge how that and the Kiug's rent shall be raised; as 
 also of the profit remaining yearly over and above all charges whatso- 
 ever. [Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Fish."] 
 
 1632, April 5. Canterbury. Sir Edward Dering to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Secretary of State to His Majesty. 
 
 Concerning Sir John Caswell, my deputy did endeavour, with what 
 secrecy might be, to make stay of him at his landing and to intercept 
 his papers. His Majesty's High Commissioner for Knighthood hath 
 called me again from the Castle. Two days before the date of your last 
 packet there passed over a young man clad in red, servant to Mr. 
 Montague, by virtue of a pass from His Majesty's most honourable 
 council, which may be doubted to be the person sought after. If he be 
 not gone already he shall not pass at this post, before your directions 
 are observed. The necessity of attending my commission out of the 
 Star Chamber and the annual session for Dover harbour (which without 
 my personal attendance cannot be held) will possess the next whole 
 week; which being passed over, I intend with my best service to wait 
 upon you.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 453 
 
 1632, April 6. The Star Chamber. R. Willis to " my very good Cokk MSS. 
 Lord aud Master the Lord Coventrye, Lord Keeper of the Great Seal of 
 England." 
 
 In this time of my long and dangerous sickness it hath been much 
 trouble to my mind that I was disabled to attend your Lordship in the 
 duties of my place and service. But now the term being so near at 
 hand and myself so little amended, and withal hearing the said report 
 of your Lordship's own indisposition of body, I could no longer forbear 
 to put up this humble suit to your Lordship to give me leave to be your 
 Beadsman at home, to pray for your Lordship my honourable Lady and 
 all your noble branches. My humble desire is my son may be continued 
 in your favour for pen employment as your Lordship shall find him fit 
 for. God of His great mercy to this commonwealth restore your Lord- 
 ship to perfect health, and long continue you therein to His glory and 
 the joy of all good men. 
 
 1632, April 11. Cheryton, Hampshire. Roger Andrewes to Sir John 
 Coke, Principal Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's Most 
 Honourable Privy Council. 
 
 I have received His Majesty's letter concerning my poor place in 
 Jesus College in Cambridge. Being grown in years and not able to 
 take long journeys I could contentedly address myself unto him (the 
 present Bishop) who is the local Visitor to whom I must leave it ac- 
 cording to my oath. I would be glad to leave it to my old good friend 
 Dr. Coke your brother, being so nigh his abode in Hertfordshire. 
 
 1 632, April 1 1 . London House. William Laud, Bishop of London, 
 to Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary of State. 
 
 Salutem in Christo. I have been a little crazy and have taken physic, 
 and do therefore pray you to excuse me both this morning at the Irish 
 Committee and in the afternoon at Council. I have likewise here sent 
 you back the copy of the letter concerning Oxford with very little 
 alteration. I heartily pray you to get His Majesty's hand to it that I may 
 have it to send away on Friday, else it will come too late. So I leave 
 you to the grace of God and rest your Honour's loving poor friend to 
 serve you. 
 
 1G32, April 11. Melbourne. Henry Cundy to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I have sent by this bearer as your Honour did appoint me the 
 bob nag, the bald nag, and the white mare. Sir Henry Agard doth 
 demand respite of homage for your lands at Melbourne, which was paid 
 in Sir Francis Nedham's lime as they say into the Duchy. It is 
 6*. ttd. a year that he demands. Mr. Ward thinks it must be 
 paid. 
 
 1632, April 12. Dover. Arnold Braems to William Ashwell, mer- 
 chant in London. By post of Canterbury. 
 
 I am heartily sorry to see you could have no better success in what 
 you desired, it hath so fleshed the Scot that whereas he was intended to 
 have gone for Scotland with that prize he hath taken, now he will stay 
 out, and hopes for twenty besides : hath got intelligence of some which 
 are daily expected from Spain, amongst the rest she from St. Sebastian, 
 and intends to lay between Dover and the Isle of Wight for them, so 
 that we are to expect much mischief to be done by him. God send 
 those good men to miss of him. An order might easily be obtained that 
 he should not meddle with such ships as had their lading designed for 
 those parts, which he pretends to be as good as all Hamburg goods. It 
 were joyful news to me to hear that the Scots' cunning might be cooled 
 again. 
 
 [Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, "Captain Bell."]
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 454 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 1632, April 13. On board His Majesty's pinnace the Tenth Lion's 
 Whelp in the Gore. Captain Henry Stradlinge to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary of State. 
 
 (To His Majesty these, haste, haste, post haste. 12 April, at 10 of 
 the clock in the morning. Received at Margate at 1 in the afternoon. 
 Received from Canterbury past 4 o'clock in afternoon. Sittingbourne 
 past 7 at night. Rochester, past 7 in the morning. Dartford past 8 of 
 the clock at night, 14th day of April 1632.) 
 
 A ship of Queensferry in Scotland came from Virginia laden with to- 
 bacco. The master brought her to an anchor in the Gore, and gotten a 
 barque which should have carried her tobacco for Holland. I am now 
 riding by this ship in the Gore, where I will make stay of her until such 
 time as I shall know your Lordship's pleasure. 
 
 1632, April 13. The Star Chamber. Richard Willis to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Secretary of Slate. 
 
 Dr. Andrewes, Master of Jesus College in Cambridge, having some 
 intention to give over that place to some worthy man, pitched upon 
 Mr. Boswell ; but he, upon His Majesty's disposing of him for foreign 
 employment, recommended in his stead to Dr. Andrewes one Mr. 
 Young, my honourable Lord's first chaplain. I am an humble suitor to 
 your honour for this worthy Doctor (Mr. Blackstone), to afford him all 
 lawful favour that, if it may be, his intentions upon Mr. Boswell's 
 mother for my Lord's chaplain may succeed. 
 
 1632, April 13. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 My cousin Gilbert hath written to you concerning my Lord of Ches- 
 terfield's land in Mapperley. I humbly pray you that whilst my cousin 
 your son is in this country that my poor house may be his rendezvous. My 
 son Gilbert is now come up to go to his place of service under my noble 
 Lord Vere in the Low Countries. I pray you extend unto him your 
 wonted favour, one word sometime from you may do him more good 
 than all I can do for him. My son Francis feareth that the Master of 
 the College will force him to commence Bachelor of Divinity at this 
 time by means whereof he will lose all hope of being Proctor, which 
 shortly will come to his turn. I pray you, good brother, do him some 
 kindness in this though he hath not deserved it. 
 
 1632, April 13. Dublin. Richard Boyle, Earl of Cork [to Sir John 
 Coke.] [No address.] 
 
 Recommends Sir Thomas Phillips for valour and good services done 
 in the wars in Munster in his younger years, and recently in the im- 
 portant service committed to him and Sir John Bingley. The Church 
 and Commonwealth suffer by the not planting of civil and religions 
 people in those great proportions of land bestowed on the City of 
 London. Any storm from foreign parts would light in that remote 
 corner of this kingdom where (so long any of Sept of the O'Xeils' live) 
 invasion will be practised. As to whether the works done by the 
 Londoners at Londonderry or mine at Bandon Bridge exceed one ano- 
 ther, judicial persons among the Commissioners affirm that the circuit 
 of my new town is more in compass than that of Londondex*ry, that my 
 walls are thicker stronger and higher. [A full description of Bandon 
 Bridge town follows.] No one recusant or unconformable novelist is 
 admitted to dwell within all the town. Asks to hasten over Sir Thomas 
 Button with the 9th and 5th Whelps, over long in furnishing at Bristol. 
 The time of year comes upon us wherein the pirates infest our seas and 
 traffic on the western coasts ; the attempts of the Turks are daily
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 455 
 
 threatened and feared. Sends copy of a second letter to Lord President Cork MSS. 
 
 of Munster to stir up his care and providence. Thanks [Sir J. Coke ?] 
 
 for so nobly declaring himself at the Board when the Lord Mount- 
 
 norris would have traduced me and my services, whereof Sir Kenelm 
 
 Digby, Sir William Beecher, and other my friends have given me a 
 
 sensible representation. 
 
 1632, April 1G. Ezechiel Harris and Thomas Greene, Bailiffs of Great 
 Yarmouth, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 You are no stranger to the unhappy cause which was lately in agita- 
 tion betwixt ourselves and our present Curate. Intercede on our behalf 
 for freeing of us from the charge of that suit awarded against the town- 
 ship, it being much exhausted by our haven and piers, and by the Dean 
 and Chapter of Norwich, who for the last seven years have not ceased 
 to weary us with expensive molestations. 
 
 1632, April 17. Whitehall. William Alexander Viscouut Steriine 
 (Stirling) to Captain Orork of a Scottish ship of war in the Narrow Seas. 
 
 Whereas you are entrusted Avith the letters of reprisal against the 
 Hamburgers, and have already (as is reported) taken and sent into 
 Scotland, ships and goods above the value of the losses sustained by the 
 late Captain Robertson. It is His Majesty's pleasure and I am com- 
 manded to signify unto you that with all diligence you retire yourself 
 home, without proceeding any further by virtue of the said letters 
 against the said Hamburghers, till your losses and the goods you have 
 taken be legally tried and determined by the Lords of His Majesty's 
 most honourable Privy Council, according to justice. And this you 
 fail not to do, as you would be answerable upon your peril. 
 
 1632, April 19. His Majesty's Castle of Dublin. The Lords Justices 
 of Ireland, Adam Viscount Loftus, Lord Chancellor, and Richard 
 Boyle, Earl of Cork, to Sir John Coke, Knight, His Majesty's Principal 
 Secretary and one of the Lords of His Majesty's most honourable Privy 
 Council. 
 
 Refers to His Majesty's letter of oth February, received the last of 
 March, concerning some new and dangerous opinions in religion, and 
 directing to examine the carriage of two sectaries, Leviston and Blair, 
 and of two others in the diocese of Connor, namely, Welsh and Dunbar. 
 Notwithstanding our constant vigilance in those affairs we found this 
 information presented to His Majesty by way of another kingdom, and 
 not from hence, whereof until that instant we never heard so much as 
 the least mention. The Archbishop of Armagh being in this city, we 
 understood from him that he being the Metropolitan of the Province of 
 Ulster, had formerly taken notice of those persons and causes, and had 
 taken some pains to reform and remove them. The Bishop of Down 
 and Connor presented to us in writing a declaration of the whole state 
 of that matter, which and a copy of the Archbishop's letters we send 
 you here enclosed. Whereunto we shall not need to add anything 
 more than to affirm that (if by Mayday next they reform not), we will 
 not fail to interpose His Majesty's authority with all care and diligence 
 for the better extirpation of those innovations : as upon all occasions 
 we will be ready to do, when we tind any attempt tending to the inter- 
 ruption of that uniformity in religion which by the mercy of God and 
 His Majesty's happy Government is now established in this kingdom. 
 We have required the Dean and Chapter of Kaphoe to certify us of what 
 leases or other grants have been made by them. 
 
 1632, April 21. Captain Thomas Chamberlain to Sir John Cuke. 
 Asks to have his " letters " signed as speedily as may be. Upon the 
 return of those whom I employ your Honour shall have justly and truly
 
 456 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. i w0 thousand pounds, as sure as if it were in your Honour's chest. I 
 served my country 18 years by sea and land, deriving my way from a 
 sentinel to an ensign, and so until a lieutenant, and so unto a captain by 
 sea and land. I never had pension or land in Ireland. I have not 
 trenched upon the King's honour, but Captain Steward and my Lord of 
 Dorchester did. 
 
 Endorsed by Sir J. Coke : " For a bad suit as appeareth by his 
 offer." 
 
 1632, April 25. Dover Castle. Edward Kempe to Sir Edward 
 Dering, Knight and Baronet, Lieutenant of Dover Castle, at the Lute in 
 Street, London. 
 
 This afternoon was chased on shore at the Pier Head by three 
 Holland men of war a small frigate of Dunkirk. The men of this town 
 before the Hollanders manned out their boats went aboard of her and 
 carried such things on shore as might have been taken by the 
 Hollanders. The captain of the Hollanders was with me much discon- 
 tented that he might not have her. I have caused her to be brought in 
 this night. Her captain is a Frenchman. I have used him fairly, not 
 making any stay of him. There is much and good news come from the 
 King of Sweden, but not any of Sir John Caswell. 
 
 1632, May 2. Cambridge. Doctor Thomas Bainbrigge, Master of 
 Christ's College, to Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I have received your letters in the behalf of your nephew for the 
 proctorship, eligible the next year, grounded upon a promise of a dis- 
 pensation. I must blame the suggestor, since neither I can give nor he 
 take it. [Incloses extracts from the College Statutes.] 
 
 1632, May 4. State of Mr. Keysar's account for 87/. 16*. lid. re- 
 ceived by him at Wakefield for the half year's rent of Mr. Savile's free- 
 hold and copyhold lands allowed by the Court of Wards, and ended at 
 Martinmas 1631. 
 
 1632, May 6. A paper indorsed by Sir John Coke, "Mr. Downing's 
 Memorial for Ireland. Points of reformation to be thought upon." 
 
 1. The Captains for the most pari entertain such as are in debt and 
 . other the like persons who, in regard of protection, are content to serve 
 
 without, or very small wages. 
 
 2. The army, as it hath been of late years and at this present, is most 
 contemptible, and much scorned by the Irish, partly in regard many of 
 these men are unfit for service and partly in respect of their poverty 
 and want of arms, they being sold, or pawned at the alehouse ; they 
 ordinarily borrowing one of another, yea sometimes of the Irish, when 
 they go to muster. 
 
 3. These poor and discontented soldiers gape for a rebellion, for then 
 will be their gain and hope of preferment. 
 
 4. There be of the army and others that are pensioners : now though 
 they die their pensions seldom die, but are translated to others that 
 never deserved any, and it hath been ordinary to sell them from one to 
 another. 
 
 The reformation must proceed from the King's own breast, for those 
 Lords that should be advised with therein, will be averse, because 
 hereby they find means to prefer and maintain younger brethren of their 
 kindred that otherwise would be a further care and charge unto them- 
 selves. 
 
 Recommends that a trained band be established and about 600 men 
 kept in pay to mainlain forts in which the arms will be kept. Billetting
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 457 
 
 and cessing will be abolished. Papists and English and Scots that are Coke MSS. 
 tenants at will to the Irish not to be admitted to the trained band. 
 
 1632, May 9. Henry Alleyn to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of the 
 Principal Secretaries of State at his honour's house upon Garlick Hill. 
 
 "With much difficulty in three days I have finished my answer to my 
 Lord of Lincoln's interrogatories, wherein I think no defendant was 
 ever morn stretched upon the tenters ; that my confession might run 
 clear I have not refused to answer all. Many impertinent questions 
 were asked, and those concerning no meaner persons than His Majesty 
 himself and His noble Councillors, whom the conspiracy pretended can 
 no way concern. I perceive by some questions not a passage in the 
 whole business among the Lords Referees but is revealed to his Lord- 
 ship, how else could they be interrogated as they were ? I have now to 
 crave license that fer this time I may depart. 
 
 1632, May 9. Sir Robert Heath, Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 About three years now past Sir Cornelius Varmeyden [Vermuyden] 
 my partner contracted with the King for his interest in Malvern Chase 
 in Worcestershire. There is a decree passed in the Exchequer to have 
 a proportion of the land parcel of the waste of the Chase in lieu of the 
 disaftbrestation for 5,000/. paid into the Exchequer. This is passed to 
 Sir Cornelius under the Great Seal. A commission went out of the 
 Exchequer to set out the King's part. The execution of this decree 
 hath been contemptuously and insolently opposed. The Court of Star 
 Chamber hath sent a Serjeant-at-Arms to apprehend the delinquents, 
 the late Ranger and Keepers of the Chase and their assistants, but 
 cannot do so. They are animated and maintained by Sir Thomas 
 Russell and Sir William Russell his son, late Master of the Game there, 
 which office is become utterly void by the disaftbrestation. Jt is given 
 out that these knights have thus done upon some letters obtained 
 by them from his Majesty. We beseech His Majesty to write his 
 letters to these two knights to give over their unjust pretences, and to 
 submit to the decree and to send up the Ranger and Keepers to be pro- 
 ceeded against, that these disorders and gross contempts may be rectified 
 and punished. 
 
 1632, May 9. His Majesty's Castle of Dublin. Adam Viscount 
 Loftus, Lord Chancellor, and Richard Boyle, Earl of Cork, to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, His Majesty's Principal Secretary and one of the Lords 
 of His Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Letters from the Bishop of Kaphoe and the Dean and Chapter of 
 that Diocese we send here inclosed. May Day (which is the time 
 assigned to those unconformable ministers mentioned in His Majesty's 
 letters to reform or remove) being now past we hear not of them as 
 yet. We may not omit upon all occasions to put you in mind of that 
 supply of His Majesty's shipping against the Turkish pirates. Some 
 other pirates are now observed to infest these coasts. 
 
 1632, May 16. Indorsed by Sir John Coke. " Copy of my letter 
 sent by Colonel Mustian concerning two traitors to Sir Henry Vane 
 together with a letter from His Majesty to the Lord Marquis Hamilton." 
 
 My former despatch was sent by your son and Sir Jacob Astley. 
 Your last gave notice of your departure from Frankfort towards the 
 King with whom I presume this bearer will find you. There is com- 
 from Brussels an Irish soldier, a resolute man very superstitious in the 
 Popish religion much addicted to the Jesuits, ami in all these respects
 
 458 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 chosen by them as a fit instrument to undertake the killing of the King 
 of Sweden. But this be saith he did refuse, and when they could not 
 prevail with him they dealt with two others both Irishmen of Tyrone's 
 company, and have already sent towards that King by the way of 
 Venice. The chief author of this practice is said to be the Cardinal of 
 Cuena who resideth at Brussels for the King of Spain. But to decline 
 suspicion of any Spanish hand they are sent by way of Venice and 
 Augsburg that the plot may seem to have derivation and authority from 
 the Pope. The first man who refused the enterprise came over hither 
 from Brussels and revealed it by the Earl of Carlisle to His Majesty. 
 The undertakers of this villainy, their names and personages, are thus 
 described. James Barry .... and Daniel Mackarty .... For 
 yourself you will so govern this business that the tenderness of our 
 Master may appear in the concurrence of his ministers in showing 
 themselves as secret and as solicitous in preserving the lives of Princes 
 as those locusts of the bottomless pit are to destroy them. 
 
 1 632, May 23, our style. Greenwich. Sir John Coke to Sir Isaac 
 Wake, Ambassador in France. 
 
 I have received your letters of \ May with the copy of the French 
 ratification and other documents. But that which is therein most 
 strange is the passage betwixt the two Ambassadors, which is either a 
 malicious or an ignorant fiction on their side. First that extraordinary 
 deputy, sent hither (as they say) upon the same errand Mr. Usberge 
 was sent thither, hath propounded nothing, nor for aught we know 
 hath any in commission, that hath any relation to either of those kings, 
 in favour of whom they say they can get no declaration. Secondly we 
 took occasion expressly to give the States ample thanks for the favours 
 and good offices they have done to the King of Bohemia, specially in 
 his convoy at his going into Germany. Thirdly they know well what 
 hath passed in the treaty now in hand by Sir H. Vane ; and how large 
 an auxiliary aid His Majesty doth condescend unto whereof I suppose 
 we shall shortly by Mr. Weston give particular notice to that King 
 with whom you are. The truth is this extraordinary deputy (assuming 
 the privilege of an Ambassador for which he hath no commission) was 
 not allowed to treat covered with Mis Majesty, which he saith Monsieur 
 Usberge doth in France. But that which troubleth them more, and 
 which seemeth to be the chief errand why he came to this Court, is 
 that he could not procure a categorical answer in favour of the Hol- 
 landers against our other allies their opposites in the use of our ports. 
 If the esclat be grown public it will befit for us to inquire into it. 
 The Marquis de St. Chaumont had audience yesterday and propoundeth 
 such overtures as may make us believe they are not confident in the 
 present state of things. 
 
 1632, May 25. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, Principal 
 Secretary of State, at Coui"t. 
 
 His Majesty's service and my country's good I prefer before my 
 particular, as the Duke of Buckingham, my old Lord Salisbury, Sir 
 Ralph Winwood, and my Lord of Denbigh well knew. Metz, Calais, 
 Boulogne now of all the frontier towns His Majesty is assured. This 
 king hath now about 100,000 horse and foot ready in Normandy, 
 Ficardy, Champagne, and Italy : and I account your honour hath been 
 advised of the danger the King of Sweden was in before Inglestadt 
 having his horse slain under him and the Marquis of Baden having his 
 head shot off by a cannon.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 459 
 
 1632, May 26. Dublin. Richard Boyle, Earl of Cork, to Sir John CoKE MSS 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary 1o His Majesty, at Court. 
 
 Notwithstanding the King's two ships paid cut of the revenue here 
 promised to return by the latter end of April yet they loiter at Bristol. 
 At this instant there is a Biscayner pirate and Captain Nutt an arch- 
 pirate hath done much harm on the western coasts. We have made 
 the best preparation that possibly we can to withstand any sudden 
 attempt of theirs. 
 
 1632, May 28. Wanstead. Francis Morice to Sir John Coke. 
 
 For his kinsman Robert Chamberlain to be a master gunner in one 
 of the new ships now building or in the Convertine of which the 
 master gunner is lately dead. 
 
 1G32, May 28. Rouen. Richard Began to Sir John Coke, Principal 
 Secretary of State and one of His Majesty's most honourable Privy 
 Council, at Court. 
 
 This King arrived at Calais. A lackey of the French Ambassador 
 sent to Rye to pass there was seized and by the Mayor of Rye his 
 packet and other letters taken and sent to Dover Castle. The people 
 here mutter much at it. 
 
 1G32, June 3. Trusley. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I have had conference with my nephew your son and also with my 
 cousin Cundy concerning the inclosing of Melburne according to your 
 letters: and I perceive that my Lord of Huntingdon is fully resolved to 
 go on (whether you agree or not) to inclose his own demesnes and hath 
 the consent of the freeholders : they think it will be beneficial for the 
 town ; but how it will be good for the poor, when the commons are 
 taken away, I yet see not. My cousin Cundy thinketh that it will be 
 rather profitable to you than otherwise, and 1 am also of that opinion, 
 if you make your agreement warily ; now you may make yourself a 
 better match than hereafter, for inclosed it will be without doubt in 
 time ; my Lord's heart is so set upon it. And if you mind to agree 
 thereto, you must survey yours to know what part you have of the 
 manor, that you may have answerable allowance of commons and wastes, 
 and for your field ground that you may have so many acres of like 
 value, joining to your park, as is offered as I conceive. Get a surveyor 
 that you may trust, which is hard to do in this country, my Lord being 
 so great an Earl. 
 
 Now for my nephew's business with Sir Henry Willoughby ; how it 
 goeth on, and with what hopes, my nephew can best tell you ; vet I 
 understand that Sir Henry hath used him as he could not do better to 
 the best man's son (being a subject) in this land. How the 
 young gentlewoman standeth affected my nephew can best relate. 
 She is 1 confess a great fortune, yet it is not in possession but after her 
 father's death who may live a great while : she may in the meantime die 
 without children, as her sister did; and it my nephew should die without 
 children by her, she would carry away a great pari of your land for 
 nothing during her life. This is the worst that can fall out for that, 
 estate, but I hope tied will bless it better than so. 1 wish it were 
 consummated, for in all likelihood it will be a great advancement to 
 your house. 
 
 1632, June 4. Northampton. Henry Alleyn to Mr. Secretary Coke 
 at his bouse on (iarlick Hill. 
 
 My Lord Bishop of Lincoln in Star Chamber brought in the same 
 letter that heretofore was exhibited against me in Parliament. The 
 clerk of the Parliament detains from me certain books, certificate of the
 
 460 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Leicestershire clergy on my behalf, and some other things, which I was 
 fain to shew for my own defence in Parliament. Sir Ralph Freeman, 
 Mr. Trumbull, and the clerk of the Parliament have all been assistants 
 to his Lordship and furnished him with such weapons as they had for 
 his Lordship's welfare. I pray your honour to move it to the rest of 
 the Lords Referees that I may have a warrant granted me for the 
 recovery of such defensive armour as remain in their hands. 
 
 1632, June 4. Greenwich. Sir John Coke to Philip Burlamachi. 
 
 Your letter gave hope that my Lord Ambassador's health was in a 
 good state of recovery. I am sorry by others of a fresher date to hear 
 of more doubt. I shall not need to persuade you to do all the good offices 
 you can to help and comfort so worthy a Minister of State. I have 
 written in his Majesty's name to assure him of his gracious favour and 
 care of him. His Majesty doth not a little marvel that you hasten not 
 your return. I told him you were gone to take your leave at Court. 
 By your present coming you will satisfy all misapprehensions. 
 
 1632, June 7. Canterbury. Sir Edward Dering to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I have this instant received this inclosed packet from Rye. If the 
 passage were well ordered these services would be easy : but as now (all 
 commands disputed and no rules observed) it is impossible but that 
 much more doth slide bye unseen than comes unto discovery. If this 
 care of intercepting letters be further necessary, I am most willing to 
 continue it, if you please to renew your commands. I can by no means 
 learn who were the passengers on Sunday last from Rye ; they may 
 have carried such letters as your honour commanded should be stayed 
 by me. 
 
 1632, June 7. Canterbury. Sir Edward Dering to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The Clerk of the passage at Rye complains that upon Sunday last at 
 night some passengers did there embark and were carried over by one 
 Edmond Harris of that town without any passport. The government 
 of passage is much unjointed and I much fear lest these wicked packets 
 have crept by unseen. 
 
 1632, June 9. Dividend at the Signet to Mr. Secretary Coke for the 
 month of January 1631. 3. 18. 8. (Sir R. Kyrkham.) 
 
 1632, June 10. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, Prin- 
 cipal Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's most honourable 
 Privy Council, at Court. 
 
 This King in returning from Calais hath taken good order for 
 Peronne, St. Quentin, and other places, and since at Rheims arrived. 
 Mr. Burlaniachi writes me he is gone to Rheims to take leave of this 
 King. My Lord Ambassador's Secretary adviseth me his honour is 
 upon recovery. 
 
 1632, June 11. Northampton. Henry Alleyn to Mr. Secretary 
 Coke, at his honour's house on Garlick Hill in London. 
 
 He that hath been weather-beaten and shipwrecked before is ever 
 afraid of another storm ; yet for the Church I am almost confident to 
 put forth one observation more, though with a timorous pen and 
 shaking hand. And it is this, that if my answer (to the seditious 
 epistles) which remiin in Sir Ralph Freeman's or the Clerk of the 
 parliament's hand, be perused, it will be easily evinced that therein I 
 deserved not to be complained of by his Lordship in parliament, (the 
 lower house I mean), as a perturbator of peace, but rather to be 
 counted a pacilier, and that therein I expressed my loyalty and fidelity
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 461 
 
 to the State and Church wherein I live. Secondly, Jf the accusation 
 of his Lordship and the puritanical helps were perused, it would 
 evidently appear which way his Lordship went and where his strength 
 lay, and from that might be deduced a manifest argument of his Lord- 
 ship's inclination and propensity to that side and that abuse. An eye 
 to some higher evidence sustaineth me in the midst of all these 
 tempests as assured that in time (though by winding and inscrutable 
 means) the equity and truth of the case will break out. Till when 
 henceforth I am resolved to be perpetually silent. 
 
 1032, June 12, noon. Calais. Da. Skynnor to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to the King's Majesty of Great Britain, cLc, 
 in London. 
 
 The French Ambassador (M. de St Chaumont) provisional governor 
 at Calais. Marseilles has revolted and declared itself for the Queen 
 Mother. The trade of Calais brought to Dover, thence to Dunkirk. 
 English ill used at Dunkirk, 10 or 12 barks taken. The Prince of 
 Orange hath taken Venloo. Movements of Dutch and Spanish forces. 
 The Duke of Larma (Lerma) passed towards Brussels to be General 
 for the King in the Netherlands. 
 
 1632, June 13. The Fleet. N. Steward to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Upon Monday last as 1 was coming to your honour's lodging, to 
 have informed you concerning the particulars of the matters in my 
 petition exhibited to His Majesty, I was arrested by certain of the 
 Warden of the Fleet's servants, and so carried to the Fleet, by virtue 
 of the order wherewith, in my petition in the last place, I found myself 
 grieved, and desired protection. I hope the reading of the first leaf 
 will give your honour full satisfaction that I was not in any contempt 
 by not paying the 1,450/. to my adversary, to the defrauding and 
 utter undoing of my poor grandchildren, which I pray you inform 
 His Majesty of. 
 
 1632, June 19. Sir Robert Heath, Chief Justice of the Common 
 Pleas, to Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary of State. 
 
 I humbly entreat your honour to cast your eye upon a letter under 
 the King's signet wherein then; is a small mistaking of a day in a 
 recital ; and that you will be pleased to give direction for the amend- 
 ment, thereof which alters nothing of the matter. 
 
 [Note subjoined. Perhaps written by King Charles I. "According 
 to our letters patent dated the 30th day of October, it should be It 
 is the twentieth."] 
 
 1632, June 23. Sir Robert Heath, Chief Justice of the Common 
 Pleas, to Sir .John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal 
 Secretaries of State. 
 
 The Serjeant at Arms' deputy who carried His Majesty's letters to 
 Sir Thomas Russell about the disorders in Malvern is returned. I 
 shall now humbly leave it to your honour's judgment whether this 
 carriage of Sir Thomas Russell be excusable. The offenders against 
 the decree of the Exchequer and orders of the Star Chamber are his 
 servants, encouraged by him to hold up the Chase to the affront of 
 justice. 1 humbly conceive if Sir Thomas Russell himself were ^ent 
 for, with command to bring his servants with him, it would be effectual. 
 
 1(532, .June 2 I. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke. Knight 
 and Principal Secretary of State and one of His Majesty's most honour- 
 able Privy Council, at Court.
 
 462 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 My last under covert of my good friend W. Ash well. From 
 Germany I hear all proceedeth prosperously with the King of Sweden, 
 as also in the Palatinate. The premier prudent of this parliament who 
 governeth this city in the absence of the governor, this morning shewed 
 me a letter from this King, in which His Majesty advised of the great 
 disloyalty which he had found in the Duke of Lorraine in not keeping 
 his word after he had redeemed him, so that at this instant his brother 
 was upon his frontiers of France with an army ; which moves this 
 King with a sore displeasure to march with all expedition with his 
 army into Lorraine to seek reason of that Duke. He hath caused this 
 parliament to publish this his letter that all may take notice of his 
 innocency. It is now at point in good earnest without mockery. Mr. 
 Burlamachi writes me he will be ready to depart in three days from 
 Paris. I send this by my Lord Wilmot's son. 
 
 1632, June 25. Risley. Sir Henry Wilughby (Willoughby) to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, His Majesty's Principal Secretary. 
 
 I Avas a glad man to see your noble son at my house. I never met 
 any young gentleman endowed with better intellectual parts. I have 
 examined my daughter to try how she stood affected towards your son 
 and find her love so cold as I cannot give him hope of better success, 
 yet if your son think good to come down again he shall have me ready 
 to further him in his suit. 
 
 1632, June 26. Robert Greville, Lord Brooke, to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, &c. 
 
 The tedious and troublesome business with much patience and 
 industry now at length is waded through. If to the sealing and 
 concluding all you can appoint any time before Saturday, in a place 
 convenient where my Lord of Bedford (a party interested) may wait 
 on you, I shall not fail God willing to attend you. I waited at White- 
 hull to have begged the favour, but being frustrated in my hopes, my 
 many businesses upon departure into the country enforce me to attend 
 in letter, not in person. 
 
 1632, June 26. Sir Robert Heath, Chief Justice of the Common 
 Pleas, to George Kirke, Esquire, of His Majesty's Bedchamber, at 
 Court. 
 
 When I was A ttorney there was a bill passed His Majesty's hand 
 for Henley Park in Surrey in the names of Mr. Tyrwhit, and Mr. 
 Squebb. There appeared a few mistakes by the writers' neglect, no 
 one of them being in any material point. I pray move His Majesty 
 for his hand to this note, which may warrant these amendments, that 
 the book may pass the Seals. 
 
 1632, June 26. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's most honourable 
 Privy Council, at Court. 
 
 Near the city of Troyes in Champagne, some of the King's brother's 
 troops have seized and taken five carts all loaden with rich goods bound 
 for Lyons. These acts of hostility make men now here to apprehend a 
 cruel war indeed. It is reported that those of the religion protestant 
 in Languedoc have been a long space debarred the free exercise of their 
 religion; they have sent one deputed express to the Cardinal, that, if 
 speedy redress be not, they must be constrained to do what they would 
 not. I send this to Dieppe after my friend. The rumour of Monsieur 
 de Rohan's troops continueth.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 463 
 
 1632, June 27. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, Knight, coke MSS. 
 Principal Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's most honourable 
 Privy Council, at Court. 
 
 By this inclosed you may perceive this King's proceedings in Lor- 
 raine. The victory remaineth to the King. 
 
 1632, July 1. Westminster. Sir Robert Pye to Sir John Coke. 
 
 There is a privy seal in the new Secretary's name for half the 
 intelligences from the death of Secretary Dorchester. My Lord 
 Treasurer told me he was of opinion you might move for the whole 
 as having foreign employment and my Lord did move and His 
 Majesty granted it. I know it hath of late been divided since 
 Salisbury's time. 
 
 1632, July 3. Dover. Richard Browne to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Inclosing letter of Signor Burlamachi being in attendance here at 
 Dover on the arrival of my late master's (Sir Isaac Wake) corpse. 
 
 1632, July 6, 10 at night. Dover. Sir Edward Dering. No 
 address. 
 
 The body of Sir Isaac Wake is at present landed of whose arrival 
 you pleased to require a present notice. The solemnity of his funeral 
 is prepared in the best manner I can design. The remaining cere- 
 monies shall be expedited with speed, and your honour shall have 
 a sudden relation of them. His landing was saluted with the great 
 pieces of this Castle and of the two bulwarks here. I have conferred 
 with Mr. Burlamachi about the papers in your last packet mentioned. 
 The body is now ready to be taken out of the boats, and the intend- 
 ment is to bury it this next morning between two and three of the 
 clock. 
 
 1632, July 6. Calais. Da. Skynner to Sir John Coke, Principal 
 Secretary unto the King's Majesty of Great Britain, in London. 
 
 The ordinary post of Paris is come, who tells me the corpse of 
 our late Ambassador was to come from Paris as to morrow, and we may 
 expect it will be here in four or five days ; which coming I will 
 according to your order acquaint the rest of our nation here residing, 
 who I make no doubt will be very willing to accompany him aboard 
 the ship. The King's forces were ready to besiege Nancy, but the 
 Duke of Lorraine is said to have pacified the King. Maestricht remains 
 besieged. Count Henry Van den Berghe hath made a manifest, and 
 doth levy soldiers to free the country of the Spaniards ; yet pretends 
 to maintain the liberties of the Catholic Roman religion. Last week 
 the effigy of the King of Spain and St. Ignatius were both pulled 
 down in the town of Brussels, upon which there was a great tumult. 
 
 16152, July 9- Inner Temple. James Chadwick to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Will confer with Sir Francis Coke and Mr. Gilbert touching the 
 things to be propounded to my Lord Goring. I doubt not but the 
 certain annual farm thereof will be well worth 100 or .500 pounds per 
 annum besides the honour and command. There is an Irish cause 
 between Jancye and Sir Thomas Staples, in which I implore Your 
 Honour's lawful favour for Sir T. Staples, not only for that he is my 
 client but also for the merits of his cause. 
 
 1632, July 9. Middle Temple. Richard Hadsor to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, His Majesty's Principal Secretary of State, at Court. 
 
 The Lord Lambert tells me that your honour desires me to certify you 
 whether his Lordship's suits concerning Royal fishings in the province 
 of Ulster will impeach His Majesty's intended fishing on the sea coast
 
 464 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MBS. of that realm, or His Majesty's late dear royal father King James of 
 1 dessed memory his grant by letters patent to the Londoners of the 
 fishings of the rivers of the Bann and Lough Foyle. I have perused 
 the draft of the letter which his Lordship desires to be signed by His 
 Majesty, and for His Majesty's better security 1 have inserted an ex- 
 ception in the said letters of the said fishings, the same now concerning 
 only inland fishings in the said province. 
 
 1632, July 10. Donald Mackay Lord Reay to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Incloses list of names to be surety. I am a stranger in this Kingdom 
 and it is not in my power to find them all English. I pray present the 
 names to His Majesty. The Attorney General says they must be bound 
 body for body, that I must not depart the Kingdom without His 
 Majesty's licence. 
 
 Note inclosed. The condition is that Lord Reay by himself or any 
 other of his procurement attempt nothing upon the person of Lord 
 Ramsey or any of his kindred. 
 
 1632, .July 14. Barbican. John Egerton, Earl of Bridgewater, 
 President of the Council of the Welsh Marches, to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 You may be pleased to remember that long since, in the gallery at 
 Whitehall, I spoke unto you for your favour unto the Council of the 
 Marches, in being a means to prevent the passing away of the Forests 
 of Mocktree and Bringewood intended to be granted to the Earl of 
 Lindsey. 1 have more than once spoken unto His Majesty, whose 
 gracious answers make me hopeful of good and desired success therein. 
 I did on Thursday last at Somerset House move His Majescy for re- 
 newing of his warrant to the Signet that nothing concerning the pro- 
 vincial Councils might pass before the President thereof were made 
 acquainted therewith ; to which purpose he then made known unto you 
 his royal pleasure in the presence of my Lord Keeper and myself. 
 
 [Indorsed, " A caveat sent to the clerks by Mr. Nicholas."] 
 
 1632, July 18. John Egerton, Earl of Bridgewater, President of the 
 Council of the Welsh Marches, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 At my being with you yesterday it was resolved to be fittest to speak 
 with my Lord Treasurer before I attended His Majesty. I purpose by 
 your good means to see the bill signed, that I may be the better enabled 
 to frame my discourse therein upon all occasions. 1 had been with you 
 this day, but that the earnest entreaty of my wife and the moist eyes of 
 my daughter (who is now to leave my house and to go from me with 
 her husband and to his friends) have made me perhaps to commit an 
 error, and to express thereby more affection than discretion. 
 
 1632, July 18. Emmanuel Downing to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Settlement of the fees of the Subpoena Office by a late agreement 
 between the Lord Chancellor, Master of the Bolls, Clerk of the Hanaper 
 "for the Seal" and the Clerk that makes the writ, viz. sixpence for 
 each. I understand the Master of the Rolls will listen to no composition. 
 I humbly entreat Your Honour that it may pass for sixpence to the 
 King for every seal as the letter is already drawn with Your Honour; 
 and for the 500 pounds to yourself it will be really performed so soon as 
 the grant shall be passed. 
 
 1632, July 22. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's most honourable 
 Privy Council.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 465 
 
 Coke MSS. 
 The Duke of Lorraine has performed what he promised to the King. 
 
 Mons-eur the King's brother being in Bourbonnais, he sent thither 
 Marshal Schomberg and Marshal la Force with troops. News come to 
 the Cardinal of the rendering of Maestricht to the Prince of Orange. 
 General misery in Spain. In the East Indies the Hollanders have taken 
 Goa. Here is maize corn derived from Ireland and Guernsey. In 
 regard of the uncertainty of the season, it were not amiss that we kept 
 our own old store as this people do. Quantity of butter, tallow, and 
 hides are brought here over by Flemings and French from Ireland, 
 which staple and necessary commodities, which are brought from thence 
 by permission of some. ill members, c luseth a dearth in our land. 
 
 1632, July 23. Norwich. Foulke Robartes, John Spendlove, 
 Nicholas Howlett, and Edmund Porter, Prebendaries, to the Bishop of 
 London. 
 
 We are now certified that a petition in the name of the town of Yar- 
 mouth to the King for a new lecturer is recommended to your Honour. 
 This attempt is the restless importunity of some few of the faction without 
 the general allowance. We the perpetual incumbents have there placed 
 two very able men the people are generally well satisiied and desire no 
 more. 
 
 1632, July 23. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 principal Secretary of State, and one of His Majesty's most honourable 
 Privy Council, at Court. 
 
 In mine of 22nd courant I advised of what passed concerning 
 Mastrike [Maestricht] of the rendering of it by composition, and since 
 the premiers prudents of this city had also advice of so much with 
 augmentation ; the conditions such as at Roermonde and Venloo. But I 
 have now letters fresh from Antwerp and Brussels, and they mention 
 nothing but (?) of the rendering ; but that it is thought it cannot be re- 
 lieved ; so I am in doubt, so cannot aver it, and so must hold the advice 
 of rendering in suspense. I am told it is thought the King will for 
 Poitou, but no certainty. 
 
 1632, July 26. Delft in Holland.- -Edward Misselden to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State, and of His Majesty's most 
 honourable Privy Council, at Court. 
 
 The Dutch merchants avoid the buying of these new searched and 
 sealed cloths, finding them now worse made and yet as faulty as before ; 
 whereby our English cloth grows more and more in disgrace, and 
 causeth the Dutch to go on with more courage in their making of cloth. 
 It hath added much to the fame of this worthy fellowship of Merchants 
 Adventurers that, besides the well governing of this great society, they 
 have ever maintained the ministry of God's word amongst them, that 
 so the young branch of the company, consisting of many knights' and 
 gentlemen's sons and others of quality, as well have good educa- 
 tion in religion, as in matters of merchandise and commerce with 
 foreign nations : that being well bred and seasoned in both they 
 might prove the better subjects to His Majesty at their return 
 home again. Our minister here concurreth not either with the 
 Church of England, or with the churches under the States Govern- 
 ment here, but is wholly for the Presbyterian kind of preaching and 
 government of the Church ; and will not preach on any solemn days, as 
 the Nativity and Passiou of Christ, the Gunpowder Deliverance, and 
 the like, nor will use any forms of prayer, but do all after his own 
 voluntary conceptions. Whereupon I have taken occasion lately to 
 admonish our preacher and company : but instead of reformation of 
 IT 249G3. G G
 
 466 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coks MSS. these miscarriages, the minister hath made a faction to plot with our 
 company at Hamburgh to remove me out of my place. The court at 
 Hamburg re-elected me to this place of government, yet the minister and 
 company here continue so violent in their faction and combination, that 
 they refuse to come to courts, and do as those that said " Nolumus hunc 
 regnare." I have thought it my duty to acquaint His Majesty and the 
 Lords therewith, that so the ringleaders of these rebellious persons may 
 be made examples to others ; and some Reverend and learned Divine 
 sent over to catechise these young merchants better to know and acknow- 
 ledge God and their King. For our minister, having put the company 
 into this distraction, is gone to the King of Sweden and left us desti- 
 tute. This is the 10th year wherein I have spent my time in this 
 government. Another great abuse of this government by His Majestv's 
 charters it is expressly provided for, that whosoever of a company shall 
 marry any foreign born woman shall ipso facto be disfranchised from 
 the freedom of this fellowship, because His Majesty loseth his subjects 
 by their alliance and incorporation with strangers : and next the secrets 
 and trade of our couutry, as the drapery and the like, are in danger to 
 be revealed and conveyed to the Dutch and other strangers, to the 
 public loss of our country and nation. I am a suitor to your honour 
 that if the charter in this particular be obscure it may be made clear. 
 
 1632, July 28. His Chamber. Sir Thomas Phillips to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, His Majesty's Principal Secretary of State and one of 
 His Privy Council. 
 
 Master Sewtas a very sufficient honest lawyer by Sir John Bankes' 
 approbation, is hard at work breviating of the books and I hope will 
 perform it to your honour's liking. The Londoners will rather seek 
 to compound than to endure a censure in the Star Chamber. They 
 now begin to know they have a foul business in hand which they are 
 not able to defend. The strength of their testimony is in their own 
 clerks and parties interested. At Greenwich in 1612 they informed 
 His late Majesty that they had spent '25,0001. whereupon to disprove 
 them His Majesty had caused Sir Josias Bodley to journey and estimate 
 what they had done and he could not find they had spent half so 
 much : and thereupon His Majesty was very angry, and swore that, 
 if they would be cozened, he would not. The London faction are more 
 bold to do all manner of wrongs than ever they were. There was an 
 injunction to restrain them from further spoiling of the woods, but 
 since my coming away they have made more spoil than was done a 
 1 on time before. There are many staves ready to be shipped away. 
 They make havoc as though they were to take their leaves. 
 
 1632, July 28. Farnham. Richard Neyle, Archbishop of York, 
 to the Bishop of London, one of His Majesty's most honourable Privy 
 Council, at the Court at Oatlands. 
 
 Mr. Smart, in confident expectation of the good success of his trial 
 to be held at Durham Assizes for the recovery of his prebend, came in 
 his surplice and hood into Durham choir, and there continued in his 
 stall ; and the Dean, being there, and knowing he is an excommunicated 
 person, endured him without any reproof. His Majesty's Commis- 
 sioners at York take this for a very great contempt. The common 
 lawyers at York are of opinion that the Higli Commission may not 
 meddle with Smart for his insolency, in regard that he is a prisoner 
 of the King's Bench removed by habeas corpus from York. If that 
 be avowed for good we may give up the High Commission. Another 
 business, which will concern my successors in the Bishoprick of Win- 
 chester, the town of Taunton obtained a corporation which may
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 467 
 
 become very prejudicial to the inheritance of the Bishopric. I hear Cokb MSS. 
 it said that the town of Farnham are now attempting the like ; it con- 
 cerneth the Bishopric of Winchester more than a little. I beseech you 
 obtain of His Majesty it may not be done this vacancy. His Majesty's 
 public services are little beholden to the headiness of such Corporations, 
 
 1632, July 28. Dover Castle. Theophilus Howard, Earl of Suffolk. 
 K.G., Warden of the Cinque Ports, to Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary 
 to His Majesty. 
 
 This day arrived at Hover an Englishman who came from Dunkirk, 
 and told me that a ship from Spain did report that war was proclaimed 
 against France ; likewise that he passed by Gravelines, where they 
 fortify exceedingly, and at Calais, which he also passed by. Maestricht 
 he also saith is not yet taken, but cannot hold out above 10 days if 
 Popinham [Pappenheim ?] come not in the meantime. 
 
 1632, July 30. Dover Castle. Sir Edward Dering to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 By order from my Lord of Suffolk, I am bold to present the con- 
 tinuing petitions of the poor prisoners who were here committed upon 
 suspicion of piracy near twelve months since. They have long suffered 
 in durance, and I doubt not but that the law -will acquit them. Those 
 papers about the passage within the ports which 1 delivered to you 
 at Whitehall, I pray you to make no use of them until I be so happy as 
 to attend upon you next. 
 
 1632, July 31. Draft Warrant for the Royal Signet dated at Oat- 
 ands, and signed " Abraham Williams," directing that a legacy by will 
 of James Blackleeche of 100/., "to be for and towards the maintenance 
 of Jdlis Majesty's wars now intended beyond the seas as is supposed for 
 the recovering the King's Sister's children their country" be paid to Sir 
 William St. John, Knight. 
 
 1632, August 2. London. Doctor G. Primerose to Sir John Coke, 
 Secretary and Councillor of State, at Court. 
 
 I shall carry your letter to the Duke of Soubise, who is yet in town. 
 I have letters from Bordeaux that the Duke d'Espernon is there in great 
 (juietness with his ordinary train. If the French King go to Languedoc 
 the Duke d'Espernon is not on Monsieur his side. At Bordeaux they 
 are all disposed to rebellion because the King hath taken all their 
 liberties from them, transported the customs to Blaye, and introduced 
 the Gabelle. 
 
 1632, August 3. Fulham. Sir Francis Windebank to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty, at the 
 Court. 
 
 His Majesty vouchsafes me liberty to retire to my home this progress. 
 You may give your letters address to my house Haines Hill in Hurst 
 parish, in the County of Wilts, near Twyford. There is a letter now 
 directed to my Lord Bishop of Ely, wherein there is a desperate com- 
 plaint against the Karl of Bedford, and though it be not without some 
 flashes of distraction, yet there arc some sad passages in it and that may 
 concern His Majesty's safety. You will please to represent them to His 
 Majesty, that there may be someway held for examining the party, and 
 preventing the danger. 1 have lately seen in the hand of Dr. Andrewes 
 the Physician, a letter from Edward Misselden, deputy agent for the 
 English merchants at Delft, where he complains much ot one Mr. 
 Forbes, a Scotchman, that opposes his government, and hath strangely 
 perplexed the affairs of the merchants in those parts. T hear very well 
 of the abilities and integrity of the man, and tha^ he is very comformable 
 
 G G 2
 
 468 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 to the government of England, both in Church and State, which is the 
 cause of Forbes his malignity. Accept my best wishes to you for health 
 and strength to endure the travail of the progress. 
 
 1632, August 4. Yarmouth. Ezechiel Harris and Ed. Greene, 
 Bailiffs, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 In pursuance of what it hath pleased the grave wisdom of the right 
 honourable Board to prescribe unto our assembly, we have despatched 
 this messenger to attend upon the pleasure of the Lord Bishop that upon 
 his report touching the persons already nominated we may order our- 
 selves accordingly. We shall still be humble suitors for such further 
 honourable favour as a cause tending so much to the honour of God the 
 furtherance of peace and piety amongst us may seem to stand in 
 need of. 
 
 1632, August 6. Salisbury. Draft by Sir John Coke. Indorsed, 
 ik Copy of my letter to the Bishop of Ely." 
 
 Right Reverend Lord, Having in your presence acquainted his 
 Majesty with the substance of that presentment which was made by a 
 minister at the last visitation held' in Cambridge, and transmitted by 
 some of his Majesty's Council to your Lordship, his Majesty, considering 
 that besides the inordinate expressions of the interests of the party, 
 there are some things reflecting upon the state of the ministry and 
 government of the church which are not to [be] neglected, hath there- 
 fore thought it fit that your Lordship, as Ordinary of that diocese, shall 
 cause your chancellor, together with some grave and learned divines and 
 lawyers of that University, to examine both the person and his cause, 
 and his manner of proceeding, and certify the true state thereof under 
 their hands. Whereupon, if it shall appear that the complainant by his 
 distresses is fallen into any distemper of spirit worthy of pity and com- 
 passion, then you shall out of your fatherly commiseration, both by mild 
 and tender admonition, recover and comfort him to a better estate of 
 mind also help and relieve his disease by such counsel and physic as the 
 university will well afford. But if it shall appear that his distemper 
 proceedeth from his own violent and disordered humours and any 
 refractoriness to the just proceedings of our laws ecclesiastical or 
 civil, then you are legally to proceed against him, according to the 
 merits of his offence. On the other side, if it shall be certified that his 
 presentment in the substance thereof isjust and that the Commissioners, 
 in respect of the greatness of the person complained of, did forbear to 
 enter into the examination thereof, then your Lordship shall acquaint 
 the Earl of Bedford therewith, and shall give nothing in his prejudice 
 before you hear his answer. He being so noble, so religious and so 
 favoured by his Majesty, that he cannot conceive he will refuse to 
 accommodate himself in such a case as this to give such maintenance as 
 by your Lordship, or any equal judge, shall be found reasonable and 
 just. Wherein nevertheless his Majesty expecteth a report from your 
 Lordship of your proceedings and of the issue ; that his gracious and 
 royal care of the church and government may provide as there shall be 
 cause for the indemnity thereof. So not doubting of your due corres- 
 pondence to his Majesty's religious and just directions, I remain your 
 Lordship's friend and humble servant. 
 
 1632, August 9. London. Lord Dungarvan to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State to his Majesty, at Court. [In- 
 dorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Son and heir to the Earl of Cork."] 
 
 As it was my father's command, so was it my desire, to wait upon you, 
 and according to my father's instructions above all others to make my
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 469 
 
 addresses unto you. The King being gone so far in his progress I was Coke MSS. 
 forced to make these lines the interpreters of my intentions. I beseech 
 you I may obtain His Majesty's pass for my travels, which you will be 
 pleased 1o direct to my Lord Goring, that if it be possible 1 may enjoy 
 Mr. BoswelFs company who is ready to go for the Low Counties. 
 
 1632, August 10. Bewiey (Beaulieu). 
 
 Charles R. Right trusty and right well beloved councillor We greet 
 you well. We had notice not long since of an information given by a clergy- 
 man of that our kingdom of Ireland against this bearer Robert Blare 
 [Blair] and some other Scottish ministers,wherein they were charged with 
 preaching and practising strange and fanatical doctrines and novelties, to 
 the great disturbance and affliction of our people in the churches where 
 they reside. And his information we caused to be sent to our Justices, 
 und to their Ordinary the Bishop of Down, and required them to bring 
 the parties before them ; and upon due examination, finding them guilty, 
 to proceed against them with such censures and punishment as the offence 
 deserved, and so as the scaudal thereof might be taken away from our 
 religion and government. Notwithstanding neither our Justices nor the 
 Bishop has as yet given unto us any account of their proceedings. And 
 this man, for himself and his fellows, appearing at our Court, doth 
 confidently avow that they have not as yet been examined or heard 
 upon the said information, and that they never held taught or approved 
 any such matters of doctrine or practice wherewith they are charged : 
 [and withal desired with great instance that you, our Deputy, calling 
 unto you the Primate of Armagh, the Bishop of Derry, the "Bishop of 
 Down their Ordinary, and whom else you think lit, will strictly examine 
 the truth of the said information made against them ; and punish, or 
 free them and continue them in their charges, as you shall find their 
 carriage therein hath deserved. This reasonable and just request we 
 think fit to grant unto them, and accordingly require you to proceed 
 with convenient expedition, that if you find them men of sacred doctrine 
 and honest lives, and such as carry themselves peaceably and orderly in 
 their callings, the Church may not be deprived of their labours in those 
 parts, where the great ignorance of many needeth as much help for the 
 planting of religion as may be had.] " Now since thease contrarieties 
 has beene informed to us We command you that you examin strictlie 
 which of thease informations bee trew, without giving credit to anie 
 syde untill the trewth show it selfe by proofe, and accordinglie either 
 to punishe or rewarde the severall parties as ye shall fynd them to 
 deserve." And for so doing these our letters shall be your sufficient 
 warrant. Given under signet at our Court at Bewiey the 10th day of 
 August the 8th year of our reign, 1032. 
 
 By his Majesty's Commandment, 
 J. Coke. 
 
 Note. This paper is endorsed " Coppie of his Majesty's letters on 
 the behalf of Scottish ministers in Ireland, corrected with his owne 
 hand." The portion of the letter within brackets [ ] is carefully lined 
 out, and the substituted part within " " is written by the King in the 
 margin. 
 
 1632, August 11. Cornwall. Charles Lord Lambart to Sir John 
 Coke, Principal Secretary of State, at the Court. 
 
 My Lord Robarts in a high manner of contempt, by the advice of 
 his son, hath refused to obey His Majesty's and your Honour's letters 
 and the Lords' Warrant, in hope his late custom of lying in his bed 
 shall be his protection. He is in perfect good health and eats and
 
 470 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPrs COMMISSION. 
 
 drinks as liberally as ever he did, and is able to travel, at the least in 
 his coach or horse litter. When I taxed him with his neglect he 
 made answer that his warrant was not of sufficient power. He has 
 sent his son to make his excuse, and by the mediation of my Lord of 
 Holland to get the King to take his hands off from this business. I 
 beseech you obtain that favour for your servant that a Serjeant at Arms 
 may be sent for the Lord Robarts, which will somewhat more terrify 
 his Lordship and doubtless give a final end to this business, and make 
 me a happy man, otherwise most unhappy. I have written to Mr. 
 Porter, who I know will make it his suit to his Majesty : if your 
 Honour be pleased to second him. 
 
 1632, August 13. Dover Castle. Theophilus Howard, Earl of 
 Suffolk to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 The bearer hereof hath presented me with a petition wherein he 
 complaineth of divers wrongs done him by the subjects to the Arch- 
 duchess. You are best able, both by your experience in like cases 
 and nearness to His Majesty, to put the party aggrieved into the best 
 or likeliest way of relief. 
 
 [Inclosures. Certificate of John Wallopp, Master of the Ship Mary 
 and John of Dover, that a Blankenberghe sloop belonging to the 
 Fort of the King of Spain took his ship and kept the crew and pas- 
 sengers prisoners at the Port four days and nights, and took some 
 goods and then dismissed them and it. Also Petition to the " Earl of 
 Suffolk, Baron of Waldon, Constable of Dover Castle, Lord Warden 
 Chancellor and Admiral of Cinque Ports, K.G., and P.C." of Peter 
 Letten, Ressiant and Commorant in Dover as a merchant trading into 
 foreign parts, for letters to the Judge of the Admiralty of Flanders to 
 restore his goods and merchandize.] 
 
 1632, August 15. Dorchester Gaol. Juan Bromaat to Mr. Coke at 
 his Chamber in Beaulieu. 
 
 My keeper, thinking that letter which you sent not sufficient to free 
 me, although His Majesty's hand and seal were annexed to it, still 
 detains me in prison ; telling me that without His Majesty's pardon 
 directed to the Vice-Admiral, or to himself, in express words, he will 
 not, cannot, free me. 
 
 1632, August 16. London. Colonel Ashton to Sir John Coke, 
 Chief Secretary of the State and one of His Majesty's most honourable 
 Privy Council. 
 
 I have received no answer unto my petition, neither my pass nor 
 His Majesty's letters for me unto the Emperor, for which occasions I 
 was lately at Oatlands. I make bold to send one of my officers unto 
 you, considering the winter is so nigh at hand. Also I entreat that 
 the King's letters may be framed according to this small draft enclosed. 
 [Endorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Letter signed."] 
 
 1632, August 18. Dover Castle. Theopliilus Howard, Earl of 
 Suffolk, to Sir John Coke. Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 News that Maestricht was surrendered the 13th of this month, 
 250 of the best men made a sally on the English, who had taken some 
 works, and gotten mastery of the galleries, but were beaten back into 
 the town. In the meantime General Pappenheim made his assault 
 upon the English quarters on the other side. He was constrained to 
 retire with the loss of 3,000 men slain upon the place, which ended 
 the town in four days. The French king is gone towards his brother
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 471 
 
 with 20,000 men. He gives his brother six weeks to come in, and 
 make his peace, and fifteen days to Montmorency. Count Henry de 
 Van de Berghe gives in his colours the red cros3 and the white 
 mingled together. His word is Fin de la guerre. 
 
 1632, August 18. Beaulieu. " Copy " (by Sir J. Coke) "of a letter 
 from the Lords of the Council to the Justices of Hampshire, signed, 
 Carlisle, Holland, Thomas Edmonds, P. Coke." 
 
 After our hearty commendations. Howsoever His Majesty, as other 
 his predecessors, in his times of progress applieth himself to these 
 princely exercises and disports which are requisite for his health and 
 refreshing, amongst his continual and weighty cares, yet. even therein 
 he intendeth specially to behold in his own person the state of his 
 subjects, how they are governed, and how they carry themselves in all 
 places, as well to encourage them where they do well, as also to redress 
 what he sees amiss. He had taken special notice in this county that 
 his people enjoy peace and prosperity. Noblemen, gentlemen, and 
 commons live quietly among themselves. New directions given for 
 transporting timber. Perverse and ill disposed workmen to be made 
 to accept of reasonable and ordinary wages. Sir William Dorington, 
 Mr. Munday, and such justices as dwell near, to assist our purveyor in 
 punishing this abuse. Liberty is taken in every market town suddenly 
 to enhance the prices of corn, flesh, and fish. Justices and corporated 
 authorities to take a stricter course to punish any slackness or corrup- 
 tion : also to keep a watchful eye upon all that passeth towards any 
 ports or creeks, corn and wool. Our ships at sea will be appointed to 
 make due search and seizure of all unlawfully exported goods to the 
 public damage of the land. 
 
 1632, August 21. Kouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty, and one of His Majesty's 
 most honourable Privy Council, at Court. 
 
 Incloses copy of a letter from Valenciennes, dated 18th current, as 
 to Couut Henry de Vandenbergh. Bouchain, mentioned in my friend's 
 letter, is, as men report, of importance, situated between Cambray and 
 Valenciennes. Troops are here levied daily, and two companies passed 
 yesterday towards Picardy. 
 
 (Inclosure in 11. Bogan's letter.) 
 
 1G32, Aout 18. Vallance (Valenciennes). 
 
 Monsieur, Cette ne sera que pour vous aviser qu'avons avis que le 
 Gouverneur de Bouchain et ses freres est declare pour le Comte Henry 
 de Vandenbergh et a fait entrer dans Bouchain 600 Francais qu'il a 
 envoyes querir sur les frontieres. Autres grands dc qualite, se sont 
 aussi declares mais ne savaient les nomsque des su^dils * lis font 
 
 plus de 10,000 homsues. et attendent encore o.OOO. 
 
 1632, August 21. Cork. II. Gosnold to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty in Court. 
 
 My suit tor tin' Beliefs and Ileriots l>ein reduced to a favourable 
 letter from the Lords to our designed Lord Deputy, hath long expected 
 his coming over. Be pleased to afford me a few lines to his Lordship 
 to refresh his memory, and to countenance me. the better on my repair 
 unto him. My petition to Hi- Majesty tor some 1,000 or 2,000 of acres 
 out of the next plantation is left in the hands of Sir Howard Zoueh. I 
 perceive that Sir \V. St. Leger, Lord President of this province, is the 
 only man that is able to lay open the King's title to the lands in 
 Ormond. S une have thought it policy to blank his help-, whereby 
 they have hindered the business. Mine opinion is that if you would
 
 472 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 lay bold on this fair opportunity, and make use of" that noble gentle- 
 man, who seems to love and honour you much, and by his means to 
 draw the thanks and benefit another way, it would be no hard matter 
 for you to crown that work. 
 
 1632, August 25. Sir Robert Heath, Chief Justice of the Common 
 Pleas, to Sir John Coke, Knight, one of His Majesty's Principal 
 Secretaries of State, at Court. 
 
 After His Majesty's own letters to Sir Thomas Russell, in the absence 
 of Sir Thomas and Sir William Russell, they yet continue their wonted 
 courses, insomuch as the Commissioners and Surveyors go about the 
 business according to the decree of the Court of Exchequer in much 
 danger and in more fear. They give out that His Majesty hath given 
 order that it shall stand a Chase. My suit is that His Majesty will 
 vouchsafe to write a letter directed to the Hi;h Sheriff and the Deputy 
 Lieutenant of the County of Worcester, commanding them to disperse 
 these riotous assemblies, and to commit the offenders or bind them over. 
 As for Giles King, the late Ranger, and the other ringleaders, that they 
 apprehend them and commit them safely to the custody of the Serjeant- 
 at-Arms. I beseech you to obtain this letter and to send it by my 
 servant to the Serjeant-at-Arms to be carried into the country. This 
 I am confident will settle the peace of the country. 
 
 1632, August 27. Alexander Stewart to Sir J. Coke. 
 
 I came to His Majesty at Nonsuch, and shewed him if he "Would 
 write to the Emperor of Russia and the State of Poland, that I might 
 have liberty to buy hemp and flax, and make it into cordage, I would 
 furnish His Majesty with 20,000 pounds worth of cordage at Michael- 
 mas come twelvemonth at 22 pounds the ton, whereupon His Majesty 
 commanded me to deliver the letters to your Honour. Your Honour 
 shall receive advertisement from me and the agent there, when I come 
 into Russia, that I have bought the hemp and am making of it into 
 cordage in April next, because then I must send hither for ships to 
 transport. I presume to present your Honour with 50 pieces as an 
 earnest of thankfulness. 
 
 [Endorsed, "Letters to the Muscovite."] 
 
 1632, August 27. Roehampton. William Lake to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty at the Court. 
 
 These two letters from Monsieur Augier and de Vic came inclosed 
 in my Lord Ambassador Weston's packet. I did carry them to 
 Nonsuch, and on Sunday last to Oatlands, in hope to have found you. 
 I have likewise command from my Lord Treasurer to recommend to 
 your honour's care a parchment, containing a dispensation for his 
 household chaplain (Mr. Dr. Halsey) for non-residing upon his pre- 
 bendary at Winchester, in regard of the poorness of his fortune and 
 means not exceeding 100/. per annum. 
 
 1632, August 28. His house. Richard Lord Weston, Lord Treasurer, 
 "for your Honour." 
 
 My son's letter to you from Paris the King opened and read at Oat- 
 lands. Nicobaldi was with me, he complained that the Emperor's letter 
 was given him without a copy. I shewed him that which you sent me. 
 He liked well the matter, and wished that some honourable mention 
 were made of himself; and that how r ever the answer was slow, he had 
 not been wanting in the diligent solicitation of it. I have sent you 
 the original letter to alter, if it please his Majesty. Mr. f^leming is 
 dispatched this day to his contentment, and carries to my son the Kind's
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 473 
 
 order to hasten into Italy. He may return back peradventure as soon coke MSS. 
 as we shall be able to make a reply to any proposition sent over by him 
 before he goes. 
 
 1632, August 28. A copy of the Lords Justices (of Ireland) letter 
 to Mr. Secretary Windebank. 
 
 Daniel Molyneux heretofore Ulster King of Arms being deceased, the 
 office is exercised, not by William Molyneux his son, as His Majesty 
 has been wrongly informed, but by Adam Ussher who was a patentee 
 therein with Daniel Molyneux. He is a gentleman by birth, being 
 son to Sir William Ussher, Knight, Clerk of the Council here. He is 
 a graduate in the University, and trained up at the Inns of Court in 
 England. 
 
 1632, August 29. Dublin. Adam Viscount Loftus, Lord Chancellor 
 of Ireland, to Sir J. Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty, 
 and one of His Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Inclosing the last above, and enforcing the maintenance of the patent 
 to the brother of the wife of Dauiel Molyneux, for the sake of a pro- 
 vision for her and her children. 
 
 1632, August 31. Draft (written by Sir J. Coke) of a letter to the 
 High Sheriff and Deputy Lieutenants of Worcestershire, prepared for 
 the King's signature. 
 
 Stating the resolution of the King to execute a Decree of the Court 
 of Exchequer for the disafforesting of Malvern Chase, and by the power 
 of the County to scatter and disperse all riotous assembly and practices. 
 And we require you to cause the person of Giles King, late Ranger, and 
 such others as are named in the warrant of our Serjeant-at-Arms, to be 
 found out and apprehended, to be disposed of as our Court of Star 
 Chamber shall direct. 
 
 1632, September 7. Yarmouth. Ezechiel Harris and E. Green, 
 Bailiffs, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State, to 
 His Majesty. 
 
 Some weeks since, according to the Order of the Lords, we 
 presented the names of two or three (as Ave conceive, able, and we 
 are sure, conformable) ministers unto the Bishop of London, that one 
 of them might be by the Honorable Board appointed as a town preacher 
 or lecturer amongst us. As God has already made you the instrument 
 of these hopes in which we do promise so much good unto ourselves 
 and our posterity, so by your honour's continued mediation Ave may 
 receive the fruit of our own desires and your good Avishes toA\\*irds 
 us. 
 
 1632, September 10. Aston. Henry Lee to Sir John Coke. 
 
 I presume the knowledge of mine and my wife's resolution to bestow 
 her daughter Mary Blunt in marriage with my ancient and worthy 
 friend, Richard Wilde. On Friday last there came into the country 
 one Holmested who pretends to challenge some kind of interest in my 
 said daughter's affection, and thereupon hath Avritten a threatening 
 letter to Mr. Wilde to dissuade him from prosecuting his intended 
 marriage. Forasmuch as the carriage of this unworthy man is of so 
 high a nature as if he be not made an example Your Honour nor any 
 man else that is a father of children can promise to themselves any 
 earthly comfort in them, I humbly entreat your Honour to vouchsafe 
 your noble favour and assistance herein as in your grave Avisdom you 
 shall think fit.
 
 . 474 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION". 
 
 okb MSS. 1632, September 11. London. Enilyrnion Porter to Sir John Coke, 
 
 Principal Secretary of State unto His Majesty. 
 
 This inclosed petition His Majesty commanded me to deliver unto 
 you : it concerns a gentleman and kinsman of mine and what favour your 
 Honour shall do him will be an increase of the many obligations I have 
 to be your Honour's true and humble servant. 
 
 1632, September 13. Portsmouth. Francis Brooke to Sir John Coke. 
 
 Inclosing a draft of the show of what he has conceived for the good 
 of the town. The inclosure is a petition of divers of the inhabitants of 
 Portsmouth, stating, An intent of making a joint stock towards the 
 attainment of trade, traffic, and commerce unto that town, to be employed 
 in the way of merchandizing. And asking letters patent to those 
 entering the Society for the sole disposing of the stock to be employed, 
 and authority to seize to their use goods imported into or out of the 
 harbour of Portsmouth, or within a compass of 10 miles on the sea by 
 any other persons. 
 
 1632, September 14. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, and Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty, at Court. 
 
 The inclosed declares what passed concerning the King's army 
 against his brother the Duke of Orleans in Languedoc. His Majesty is 
 now with the Queen at Lyons. Troops are raised here and pass 
 towards the frontiers of Picardy. Sixty of the Turk's Galleys are on 
 the coast of Cycillia (Scilly ?) Some 70 ships are speedy to enter the 
 Sleeve. God in mercy keep all good Christians from the Slaver. The 
 King by his declaration at Ccsne 23 August hath declared those of the 
 Religion to be his faithful subjects, which confirmeth their fidelity. 
 
 1632, September 20. London. Morris Abbott, Governor: 
 Christopher Clitheroe, Deputy ; Henry Garway, Robert Bateman, 
 and Thomas Noon, " East Indian Governors," to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty, at his house in Tottenham. 
 
 We have received late intelligence of the great dearth which hath 
 been in India, and of the great mortality by famine and pestilential 
 diseases which hath depopulated many places and hath swept away 
 30,000 people in the town of Surat ; in our English house 10, whereof 
 Mr. Thomas Rastal is one. You may make your lady and his daughter 
 acquainted therewith in such season and manner as your Lordship's 
 wisdom shall find most meet for the better qualifying of their griefs. 
 
 1632, September 20. London. Charles Powell. (Xo address.) 
 I came hither from the Forest of Dean on Monday. The inclosed 
 paper Mr. Broughton and I got with much ado, for the country were 
 to deliver one of them to Mr. Hamborough and another presently to 
 my Lord Treasurer, and we having notice of such a plot thought fit 
 that your honour should be made acquainted with it. I was informed 
 that Mr. Wintour is farmer to Mrs. James for her woods, paying His 
 Majesty his due and to her 280/. per annum, which was the best bargain 
 that she made. It seems that the country will fall on others (after 
 Mr. Gibbons) who have wronged His Majesty much in his Forest. 
 Some letters which are newly come to me enforeeth me to go with all 
 expedition to Amsterdam, where one is broken and oweth to me some- 
 what ; as also about my brother's employment. Though it be ill time 
 to travel I cannot avoid it. 
 
 1632, September 21. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight and Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty, at Court.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 475 
 
 This King's troops which were before Treves are come into Picardy. CokeMSS. 
 The Count de Soissons departed from Paris towards Picardy, having 
 principal command from His Majesty of all that army, so now we may 
 expect to hear of some effects daily. The Queen Mother, retiring from 
 Brussels to Ghent, coming to enter was denied ; and since the Arch- 
 duchess, sending thither a garrison, has been refused. The king is 
 gone towards Narbonne, there to assemble the Parliament of Languedoc. 
 The Duke of Elbceuf with his troops have been defeated by the Marshal 
 de la Force, who took divers prisoners of quality, who since have been 
 executed. Our gold here is brought in daily by great quantity. 
 
 1632, September 26. Canbury. Thomas, Lord Coventry, Lord 
 Keeper, " For yourself." 
 
 Sends a letter received from the Lord Mayor. The improbability on 
 the one side made me conceive it might be some false accusation against 
 an innocent man. But the weight and consequence of it on the other 
 sick' made me judge that it was not fit for me to be over secure. 
 Williams is servant of Mr. Gibbs, one of the Judges of the Sheriffs 
 Courts in London; he saith that the man hath been of a fair and honest 
 conversation, and about a mouth since went by his leave down into 
 Wales to see his friends. Whether it minister any cause of fear, 
 or means of discovery, I shall leave to you. (Indorsed by Sir John 
 Coke, " Concerning the libellous papers sent by Lord Mayor.") 
 
 1632, September 27. London. William Lord Hervey to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Councillor and Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 My wandering son being returned from Asia into Italy, he gave 
 me to understand from Zurich he would see the King of Sweden and 
 his army. Here is a report that he should he miscarried about 
 Noringberg. Be pleased to send me the words of Sir Henry Vane's 
 letter concerning that matter only. If it be true (as I fear it is) I may 
 then swallow up my grief at once, and after live a comfortless man the 
 small remainder of my life. 
 
 16:32, October 1. York. Lord Wentworth, " For your Lordship." 
 The Lord Falconberg, being enjoined by His Majesty the beginning 
 of the last progress to appear before this Council and put in his answer, 
 is gone up to London without doing anything, but falsifying his under- 
 taking to His Majesty and putting scorns upon us his ministers here. 
 My humble suit is that, with His Majesty's allowance. I may send the 
 Serjeant-at-Arms to take him and bring him down hither from London. 
 This you know is a public business, an I myself, heing to leave this 
 government for a while, am desirous to settle and establish this Council 
 in her just powers and credit, and would fain see it righted upon this 
 arrogant Lord; and so discipline all the rest upon his shoulders, as 
 T might well hope they should exercise their jurisdiction in peace 
 during the lime of my absence. The business proves marvellous foul 
 against all the rest ; ami as Mr. Attorney tells me will prove most foul 
 against him too; so as there is like to be a good fine gotten on him for 
 tlie King, which considering the manner of his lite were wondrous 
 ill lo-t, and lost it will he, if 1 be not here. 
 
 Inclosed is a paper indorsed bv Sir J. Coke, ' Lord Wentworth.'" 
 Lord Wentworth sets forth reasons for enforcing the submission of 
 Lord Falconberg to the Council at York, and that his answer be 
 not upon honour, but upon oath. 
 
 1632, October 2. Rouen. Richard Began to Sir .] . Coke. Kniylit. 
 and Principal Secretary of Slate to I Lis Majesty, at Court.
 
 476 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. News from Court by which our Governor here is assured that the 
 
 Duke of Orleans is gone to find the King his brother at Montpellier, in 
 such sort as we hold all business betwixt them concluded. 
 
 1632, October 4. R., Lord Treasurer Weston to Sir John Coke y 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I do riot well remember whether His Majesty gave you any order to 
 speak with the States Ambassador about this accident of the fishing. I 
 find the business either to be of very great importance or not to be 
 spoken of at all. It is the beginning of a great work, and therefore I 
 desire you to forbear to say anything to the Ambassador till I shall tell 
 you what I know. I shall be at Roehampton, and shall be glad that 
 you will please to meet the officers of the Navy there. 
 
 1632, October 4. Stanwick in Northamptonshire. R. Willis to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 The continuance of my many infirmities hath made me an humble 
 suitor to my honourable Lord for his dispensing with my attendance 
 this term. I do not think myself to be a man for any further employ- 
 ment in this world, and therefore have applied my thoughts in this 
 retiring place to prepare for a better. I humbly beseech your remem- 
 brance of me in your good prayers for God's blessing my weak desires 
 that way ; and your good word to my noble Lord and Mr. Alured for 
 my son John. I pray for your Honour as becomes both in respect of 
 my private interest in your favour, and of that public duty, which we 
 owe to those whom God hath made Patres Patriae under him and the 
 King. 
 
 1632, October 4. Canbury. Thomas, Lord Keeper Coventry, to 
 Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 It pleased His Majesty this morning to give direction uuto me for 
 the preparing two bills for the supply of the two Judges' places now 
 vacant. I have herewith sent the same ready drawn unto you to pre- 
 sent them timely to His Majesty's signature, and return them back to 
 me. 
 
 1632, October 9. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " David Ramsey's 
 discharge signed by His Majesty and sent to Mr. Attorney." 
 Two drafts by Sir J. Coke. 
 
 1. Order for discharge of David Ramsey. 
 
 2. Letter (apparently from Sir J. Coke to the Lord Treasurer), that 
 if David Ramsey sign an abjuration of His Majesty's dominions, he is 
 to have his liberty, and your Lordship must supply him with 500 for 
 his passage. His Majesty further commandeth me to tell you that you 
 have not yet performed your promise for the money you know of, for 
 which he is earnestly pressed. 
 
 [This draft is scored across.] 
 
 1632, October 10. Bourton-on-the-Hill. Sir Nicholas Overbury to 
 Sir John Coke, Knight, Secretary of State unto His Majesty. 
 
 I have been importuned by this bearer Joseph Masey to signify unto 
 you my opinion touching his sufficiency, who I have known more than 
 seven years, he being a Clerk at the Council, and in my particular do 
 wish him all good successes. 
 
 1632, October 11. Indorsed by Sir J. Coke. ''Copy of His 
 Majesty's letter to the Commissioners for Sedgmoor."
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 477 
 
 1632, October 13. London. W. Noye, Attorney-General, to Sir Coke MSS. 
 John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I signified His Majesty's pleasure unto David Ramsey. He was 
 very pensive and much abased of his accustomed firmness. He said 
 that in obedience to His Majesty's command he was ready to go unto 
 any part of the world and not to return : that his debts amount to more 
 than 500, and they being paid he should he humbly thankful for that 
 sum. He is a suitor to His Majesty that he might repair to his 
 lodgings in King Street, and would promise on the faith of a Christian 
 and the word of a gentleman not to move from thence without license. 
 
 1632, October 15. Waterford. Captain Richard Plumleighe, to Sir 
 J. Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State, at Whitehall. 
 
 By my last general letters I gave notice of my encounter with Nutt 
 and his consort, since which he himself hath not been heard of en this 
 coast and 'tis presumed by many that he is foundered in the sea. His 
 consort having received some shot from us, of which one struck out a 
 plank of 8 feet long, put himself into the Isle of Valentia to repair his 
 ship. The day that I set sail towards him he put to sea with his ship 
 half mended, leaving behind him nine of his men ; of which I have two 
 on board me from whom I have learned these particulars. 
 
 (Men and ammunition on board the two ships : Nutt has two Turks 
 with him, and his consort one ; and since our meeting, when each of 
 them shifted for himself, they never heard of Nutt and give him lust.) 
 I never saw people in whom one disaster had settled so deep an impression 
 as the Turks last descent hath done in these Irish : every small fleet they 
 see on the coast puts them into arms, or at least to their heels. A report 
 that seven sail of Turks had put into Beerhaven. I found them 
 honest Flemings come to lade pilchards and pipestaves. Certainly I 
 find this coast has of late been very ill guarded. For my own part I 
 have never spent more than one ten days in harbour since my coming 
 from the Downs, and that to ballast, wash and refresh my sick men. 
 I have coasted above three parts of Ireland, and the west coast seven 
 times over. Your honour's favours towards me I Avill always 
 confess, as Ausonius did to the Emperor Gratian, Turn stans, turn sedens, 
 et cum voce patui, et cum meditatione secessi, omni loco, actu, habitu, et 
 tempore. 
 
 1632, October, 15. T. Gilbert. (Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, " Cousin 
 Gilbert from Lockow, Peverel." 
 
 Mr. Chadwick is of opinion it is a " nemo scit," because of the wardships 
 and other accidental profits which are uncertain. He snith further that 
 the licences or dispensations for eating of flesh on fish days will amount 
 to 300/. a year, at 5s. or 6s. Hd. a house : he saith Mansfield and Worksop 
 are within Broxtow Hundred. He can procure a farmer to Mr. Secre- 
 tary, if so he please, that will give 800/. per annum : but I think it will 
 be better after a year or two year's usage of the place. I would 
 Mr. Secretary had it under seal, and then he might say he hath such a 
 command in his country as no subject in England hath. For your 
 loving kind of apples and pears my wife and myself give you many 
 hearty thanks. 
 
 Iuclosure, signed " da. Chadwick," stating that if Mr. Secretary obtain 
 the grant, there he three or four men will be his tenant and give him 
 400/. p. a. rent, so that they may have the profits and the bestowing 
 of offices. 
 
 1632, October 15. Westminster. Humphrey Fulwood, " For vour 
 Honour." 
 
 States delivery of various letters for my lady at Tottenham. Mistress 
 Elizabeth, Mistress Ann, Mistress Elways, and the rest of your family
 
 478 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Core mss. there are in good health. Mrs. Manners lodgeth in Westminster near 
 me, ill affected with the King's evil, as she feareth. I have heen often 
 called to for a privy seal concerning moneys to be issued for the 
 furnishing forth of' the four ships now prepared. My Lord Heath doth 
 desire your honour that the king's letter about Kings Sedgmoor may be 
 opened sealed again and a copy sent to his Lordship. Petition of one 
 Fincham concerning the estate of one Cobham Doves a pirate living 
 obscurely. Sir John Caswell hath earnestly entreated me to move your 
 Honour that his friends ma)' have leave to visit him, and himself not be 
 kept close prisoner. 
 
 1632, October 16. London. Richard Poole, to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary of State. 
 
 This day I met with Mr. Burlamachi at Sir Robert Pye's. He 
 promiseih me I shall receive your money within two or three days. I 
 shall receive the 50/. out of the Exchequer tomorrow. Mr. Fulwood is 
 come to town and purposeth to set forward your businesses here. Mine 
 honourable lady is at Tottenham in good health (God be blessed) with 
 all the children. 
 
 1632, October 16. Westminster. Humphrey Fulwood to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty, at Court. 
 
 Upon enquiry of Mr. Burlamachi what should be the cause why 
 letters have not of late come from Germany, the Hague, and Brussels, 
 as usually, he entered into a large relation of the present disorder of 
 the posts. He imputed the fault merely to the posts who have hereto- 
 fore bought their places. They more minding their own peddling 
 traffic than the service of the State or merchants, omitting many 
 passages, sometimes staying for the vending of their own commodities, 
 many times through neglect by lying in tippling houses. The opinions 
 of Mr. Burlamachi and Mr. Peter Ryeaut favourable to Mr. Withering 
 and Frisel in 1heir places of postmasters. For reformation they both 
 agree in one, and that with the proposition wherewith Mr. Withering 
 hath formerly acquainted your honour. The displacing of these posts 
 and laying of' certain and sure stages, whereby His Majesty will save, 
 as Mr. Burlamachi will make appear, above 1,000/. or 1,500/. yearly 
 now expended for expresses, &c. 
 
 1632, October 16. Christianus Rex serenissimo Principi Domino 
 Carolo Magnae Brittanniae, Franciae et Hiberniae Regi Fidei Defen- 
 sori Nepoti et Fratri Nostro Carissimo. 
 
 Christianus Quartus Dei Gratia Daniae Norvesiae Vandalorum 
 Gothorumque Rex Dux Schlesvici Holsatiae Stormariae ac Dithmarsiae 
 Comes in Oldenburgh et Delmenhorst Serenissimo Principi Domino 
 Carolo Magnae Brittanniae Franciae et Hiberniae Regi Fidei Defensori 
 Nepoti et Fratri nostro carissimo salutem et continuum felicitatis 
 incrementum. 
 
 Serenissime princeps Nepos et Frater carissime qui hasce ser tJ Vae 
 tradet nostrae legionis liberi vexilli capitaneum egit Franciscus Hamond 
 nomine. Et quia manipulos ejusdem legionis aliis subdere signis 
 necesse erat cum ipso et quibusdam aliis officiariis ad quatuor mille 
 thaleros imperiales omnino convenimus. Quando autem earn summam 
 in Anglia ex Ser tis Yestr : aerario accipere voluit rogamus Vest : 
 g er tem dicto Capitaneo de tantillo ex aerariis quibuscunque nobis 
 debitis satisfieri et ad rationes aerariorum nobis debitorum ascribi 
 jubere velis. Deus Opt : Max : "V m S. tem semper incolumem prosper- 
 rime agere clementissime faxit. Dabantur ex Regia nostra Rendes- 
 burgi 16 Octobr : Anno 1682. Christianus Rex.
 
 HISTOBICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 479 
 
 1632, October 17. Joan Lady Coke to Sir John Coke. Coke ms. 
 
 I have received your kind letter whereby I understand of your good 
 health, for the which I give God humble and hearty thanks, beseeching 
 Him in mercy long to continue to His glory and our comfort. God 
 make us thankful we all enjoy health, though the weather be much 
 changed, for we have had a great deal of rain which makes great 
 floods. If you have had the like I hope it will cause the King and 
 Queen to return the sooner to London, which I should be glad of that 
 I might enjoy your company here. My brother and sister Lee is come 
 to London, and they remember their services to you, and all the 
 children their duties, and little John Elways asks when his grandfather 
 will come home. I pray remember my love to my son John Coke. 
 Thus praying to God to keep you in health and send us comfortable 
 meeting, I rest your loving and faithful wife. 
 
 1632, October 17. Hartlebury. John Thornborough, Bishop of 
 Worcester, to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His 
 Majesty. 
 
 I was glad to receive letters from your Honour, but more grieved 
 that I could not give content as you desired. These two contraries 
 gladness and grief fight a duel within my bowels. Gladness must be 
 the conqueror, grief the conquered. The reason I refer to be related to 
 your Honour, by this bearer, Mr. Button. 
 
 1632, October 21. Thomas Comber, Vice Chancellor of Cambridge, 
 to Mr. Lucas, Secretary to the right honourable the Earl of Holland. 
 
 I desire you to acquaint our honourable Chancellor with the un- 
 fortunate escape of Mr. Bernard, who this Sunday, whilst Mr. Buck our 
 senior beadle (bedell)attended upon me to St. Mary's sermon, hath made 
 a secret escape from the servant that had the charge of him. We have 
 sent many horsemen after him with hue and cry. Good Sir, I beseech 
 your care and furtherance, as well in the informing our Chancellor, 
 and by him His Majesty herewith, that such further course may be 
 token by his power for his apprehension as may be thought fit in this 
 case. I am much disturbed with this accident, and wholly rely upon 
 our honourable Chancellor's favour, in pacifying his Majesty, and 
 directing what he thinketh safest and fit for me to do herein. 
 
 1632, October 21. Draft by Sir John Coke of the King's lelter to 
 Francis, Lord Cottington, Chancellor and Under Treasurer of our 
 Exchequer. 
 
 Sir John Coke and Sir Francis Windebank, our Principal Secretaries 
 of State, and William Xoy, Esquire, our Attorney General. To 
 examine upon interrogatories Sir John Caswell, Knight, lately by our 
 order committed to the custody of John Penial, one of the messengers 
 of our Chamber in Ordinary, upon information against him that he 
 hath committed sundry offences tending to the prejudice of our honour 
 and sendee, which deserve particular and strict examination. 
 
 1632, October 22. London. Sir Francis Windebank, Secretary of 
 State to Mr. Secretary Coke. Indorsement by Sir J. Coke, "your 
 faithful brother." 
 
 1 recommended Mr. Lasley's protection to the Board, it had a fair 
 passage. The weekly Gazettes put down by the Lords of the Council. 
 For jurisdiction of Courts, the .Judges did attend : they and Sir Henry 
 Marten, and the Attorney-General, appointed to confer for settling the 
 business of prohibitions. For the city magazines and regulating the
 
 480 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. prices of corn, the Lord Mayor, Aldermen and Justices have desired a 
 longer day. Keepers of prisons sharply reprehended, who have promised 
 more strictness. Conge d'elires and letters sent for Bath and Wells, 
 Peterborough and Bristol. The last being for an enemy of yours, your 
 Honour may lay aside and defer it. [It was for Doctor George Coke, 
 the Secretary's brother]. Here are likewise two privy seals, one 
 for the Queen's Majesty, the other for Mr. Ramsey, the clockmaker. 
 
 1622, October 23. Newmarket. Draft by Sir John Coke, of His 
 Majesty's letter for John Croft of Lincoln College, to be Fellow 
 of All Souls in Oxford, hearing that he is " a student of special hope, 
 and by the statutes of your house, he ought to be preferred before others 
 in respect of his kindred." 
 
 1632, October 29. Yarmouth. Thomas Thompson and Giles Call, 
 Bailiffs, to Sir John Coke, 
 
 We are thankful that by your furtherance, we have obtained the 
 effect of our late petition to the Board for establishing a Lecturer in 
 our town. According to an order made, we are now provided of so 
 worthy and able a person chosen to that place as upon trial made 
 amongst [us ?] is found every way fit and accordingly approved of both 
 by us, and our Reverend Diocesan. We have now returned an instrument 
 under our common seal to the Board for his allowance of a hundred 
 pounds per annum with articles for the executing of his place which 
 we pray may by their order be confirmed. 
 
 1632, November 9. York. John Jobson certifies an order .sub- 
 scribed by the Right Honourable Thomas Viscount Wentworth, 
 Lord Lieutenant and President of His Majesty's Council in the North, 
 and delivered to Sir William Pennyman, Baronet, determining that the 
 towns of Clifton, St. Mary Gate, Osterwick, Heworth, and Roclift, 
 
 being annexed to the liberties of the City of York, continue to pay to the 
 Constables of the North Riding their several rates for His Majesty's 
 service, saving only to the prisoners in the Castle of York, for lame 
 soldiers, and for the House of Correction in the North Riding, and 
 that their show of arms shall be in the County of the City of York, 
 aud not with the North Riding. 
 
 1632, November 12. Robert Sparke to Sir John Coke, Chief 
 Secretary of State to His Majesty, at his lodging in Court 
 
 When I despaired of any order or relief from your Honour (your 
 letters staying so long), I repaired to Bangor, and there did tell my 
 Lord how I and others were oppressed with variety of suits commenced 
 as I said bj' his Lordship's direction. His reply was that these suits 
 were strange to him, and that he was never principal in them, nor so 
 much as privy to them, and that he would charge all these whom I did 
 then nominate not to molest any man in his name. I see and now 
 believe that my Lord of Bangor was not privy to the greatest part of 
 our troubles. He wondered why I should inform such things against 
 him : my answer was, that the height of my grief and the heat of my 
 fury was then such that, being blind, I struck him who was next unto 
 me. Sir, I am weary in opposing greatness, and may no longer resist 
 my Ordinary. All that I desire of Mr. Weckerlin is, that he continue 
 to me as I have proved to him. I wish the great Judge to reveal the 
 truth, and to give every one his due and to your honour long life here, 
 and eternal hereafter. 
 
 1632, November 16. Dublin. Indorsed by Sir J.Coke, "Letter 
 from the Lords and others in Ireland concerning the statutes 
 penalties, &c."
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 481 
 
 Right Honourable, Coke MSS. 
 
 Having long sithence understood His Majesty's princely design- 
 ment of your Lordship to undertake the charge of this Government, 
 we daily expected your happy arrival, with confidence that we should 
 reap thereby a large portion of comfort and content. But forasmuch 
 as your Lordship's coming is retarded, we have thus presumed to 
 declare, that some here have procured the execution of a statute made 
 in the Second Year of Queen Elizabeth against recusants, which is 
 followed with much severity, and imprints a general fear that your 
 Lordship's Government will be unpleasing; which statute, since the 
 enacting, was never put into execution until now, only once in the 
 happy reign of our Sovereign, Lord King James of famous memory, 
 and that permitted for a short time, iu which it begot so general poverty, 
 devolutions and so many effects of misery, as His royal Majesty, in 
 commiseration and pity of his people, did quickly recall it ; and 
 the labour of many years did not repair what that little time did 
 ruin the plenty and prosperity of the commonwealth : besides the 
 distraction and amazement it struck into the people that were there, as 
 now, all carefully busy in repairing and building what the wars destroyed. 
 And if by the now proceeding, they be again disummated (decimated ?), 
 we can expect but perpetual affliction, and never hope to see the 
 commonwealth in so iikely a frame and way to flourish as now it is. We 
 most humbly beseech your Lordship to mediate with his sacred Majesty 
 to avert this calamity, to whose mercy we solely appeal. We conceive 
 that your Lordship will find the execution of that statute will be the 
 open way to disable and impoverish the people so far as there Avill 
 not be left unto them either to serve His Majesty, or to relieve; 
 their own necessities : but the gaols and prisons may be filled with 
 those that ever have been faithful and loyal servants to the Crown at 
 all times and upon all occasions, and will ever so continue. And it was 
 set on foot (as we think), in an unreasonable time before the last 
 payment was made of the six score thousand pounds lately given unto 
 His Majesty, although the subject hath not received the whole benefit 
 of His Majesty's grace and favours transmitted by the agents, but 
 have new afflictions raised in fee places. And therefore we are 
 likewise humble suitors unto your Lordship to give and procure for 
 this distressed people the full benefit of those graces and favours 
 already bestowed by His Majesty, and such further, as your Lordship 
 will think meet for their relief. Our distress hath need of much, 
 and yet, being sensible of His Majesty's expense for our safety and 
 common good, we, who take the boldness to present this letter, do 
 hereby promise for ourselves, that we will be found among the forwardest 
 of His Majesty's subjects of this realm to pay our parts of twenty 
 thousand pounds in an equal contribution, to serve His Majesty's 
 occasions, not doubting but upon your Lordship's happy entrance into tin- 
 possession of this government w T c shall have a period set unto our 
 sufferance. We have entreated our very good Lord, the Earl of Weflt- 
 nieath, to present this unto your Lordship and to receive your Lordship's 
 answer. And so we must humbly take our leave and ever rest. 
 Dublin, the 16th of November 1G32. 
 
 Westmethe. Fingall. Gormanston. 
 
 John Netterviil, Oliver Louithe. Nettirvill. 
 
 Luke Nettervill. Ja. Dillon. Taaffe. 
 
 Jam. Flemingc. L. FitzGerald. Fitzwilliain. 
 
 Tho. Nugent. Ricd. Beaker. Shine. 
 
 U 24963. H Ft
 
 482 
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. 
 
 Ric. Barnewall. Ja. Plunkett. 
 
 Nich. Darcy. 
 
 Valo. Wesly. 
 
 Lu. Delahyde. 
 
 James Bathe. 
 
 John Talbott. 
 
 John Shee. 
 
 Marc. Chevers 
 
 R. Ferall. 
 
 Mich. Rochfort. 
 
 Henry Crompe. 
 
 Hugh o'Connor. 
 
 Thadeus Ruairk. 
 
 Morgan Ferrall. 
 
 Geralt McNawa his x mark. 
 
 Dom. Lynch. 
 
 An. Kirwan. 
 
 Charles Dowd. 
 
 Dunsany. 
 Robt. Talbott. 
 William O. Shaghnessy. 
 Oliver FitzGerrald. 
 John Kelly (or Relly). 
 J. Hose (?). 
 Bryan Birre. 
 Connor Connor. 
 Cahell McDonnaghy. 
 Farrell McManus. 
 Hugh o'Connor. 
 Wm. o'Dowd. 
 Erihna o'Hana. 
 John Gara. 
 Foger Grara. 
 Sheane oge o Roirke. 
 Da. G-aurane. 
 Cormicus Moghary. 
 Hen. McDonogh. 
 Tho. Flemynge. 
 
 .1632, November T %. Aboard His Majesty's pinnace the Second 
 Whelp in the Downs. Captain Simon Digbye to Sir John Coke, 
 Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty, at his house on Lambert 
 Hill, in London. 
 
 Captain Plumleigh has by letter pretended their Lordships' pleasures 
 to stay a ship called the Salutation coming from Zante Cephalonia, 
 the Merchant's name William Burnet, the Master's Andrew Batten. 
 I do entreat your confirmation or otherwise. It is reported that 
 Captain Nutt is taken at the Groyne. The Wesinde fleet of Hollanders 
 passed by the 16th, reported with pillage of a town in the West Indies. 
 My Admiral is still at Luckstadt. Most of the Burduse fleet is come 
 home. 
 
 1632, November 19. Dublin. John Pollexfen to (his cousin) 
 Emmanuel Downing at his house at the sign of the Bushel near Fleet 
 Conduit. 
 
 I have written to my friend Sir W. to solicit the obtaining 
 
 of Sir Christopher Sipthorp's place in the King's Bench who is lately 
 dead. If there shall be any need of money, if it exceeds not 50, do me 
 the favour to lay it down for me. 
 
 1632, November 21. Dublin. Richard Boyle, Earl of Cork. (No 
 address.) 
 
 The Earl of Westraeath is preparing to the Court, to make a tender of 
 some propositions to divert the proceedings against ihe recusants upon 
 the statute of 2nd Elizabeth, which is set on foot through all the king- 
 dom and went on so peaceably and quietly, as we could not despair, but 
 the course we were in would have procured very good effects of con- 
 formity in many, and legal fines for such as should continue refractory, 
 and those to be gotten in seasonably towards the payment of His 
 Majesty's army. I beseech you take into your consideration how 
 inconvenient it may prove to God and His Majesty's service to admit 
 of any stay or alteration in the present proceedings. None or very few 
 of the other three provinces are in the tender. I being of opinion, that 
 it will be safer that a present letter from His Majesty should be sent 
 over to countenance and encourage the work now in agitation than
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION'. 483 
 
 anywise to hinder. I understand that what offer he shall make will be Coke MSS. 
 but a personal charge for one year, unto which the Protestants have 
 given no assent, neither hath it been required of them. 
 
 Sir J. Coke to the Earl of Cork. (Copy.) 
 
 To your Lordship's letter of 28th November, I cannot give a clear 
 answer without taking the freedom to deliver my opinion and reasons 
 why I conceive the statute penalties for not coming to the church not 
 to be so convenient at this time for the public service as the common 
 contributions. Wherein I build upon the same foundation His Majesty 
 propoundeth and professeth, your Lordship insisteth upon, and from 
 which it is not fit for any to recede ; namely, that such a power and 
 order must be established in Ireland as may produce conformity in 
 religion and the church, and both justice and civility in the common- 
 wealth. That such order cannot be settled without countenance of 
 an army your Lordship and the general vote of that Council do confirm. 
 And, you also grant that the army may be maintained either upon the 
 country by cess, to which His Majesty in grace to his subjects is not 
 willing to be forced, or by common contributions, or by the new way of 
 statute penalties, Avhich your Lordship and that Council have not only 
 advised, but have put the state upon ; having (as is said) both before 
 and against the order given from hence both delayed the collections, 
 and levied the penalties ; which ought not to have been pressed, as I 
 conceive, otherwise than heretofore was done to induce the contributions, 
 and not in anywise to cast the support of the army upon them, which 
 ought not to be done for weighty considerations. [Here follow wise 
 and well argued grounds for not maintaining an army at the special cost 
 of the Papists or by an uncertain revenue such as fines for non-con- 
 formity.] The priests, when they find that by tolerating their going to 
 church where little preaching is, they may have means to put the army 
 in disorder for want of payment, they will do again what heretofore 
 they have done. It will, therefore, be no safe counsel for the King to 
 leave in their power the subsistence of the army, and for God's part I 
 doubt it will prove of as little effect to bring the Irish to conformity in 
 religion. If then your Lordship, upon pretence of religion, or the 
 King's service, shall indeed to free yourselves charge the army upon 
 these fines, and shall defer the levies of former contributions, and so 
 make it difficult to take any other resolution, you must make account it 
 will be esteemed a disservice to hazard the army, and by consequence 
 both the religion and the peace of that kingdom. If you apply to the 
 Lord Deputy in the King's way, you will find him a man not only of resolu- 
 tion, but of wisdom and moderation. Your interests are great. Be 
 careful, therefore, to settle them in the King's way, which is not only 
 the safest but the best, and those that run out of it will in the end lose 
 themselves. Pardon this boldness in him that will on all occasions 
 approve himself your Lordship's humble servant. 
 
 1632, November 21. John Verney to Sir John Coke, Knight, 
 Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I am pi ven to understand that amongst some of my Lord Brooke's 
 works now printed and ready to be sold is a letter of directions for 
 travel and this should be a letter written to my brother Sir Greville 
 Verney. The beginning of it doth intimate that my brother should be 
 of charge to my uncle. Your Honour well knows of what charge the 
 breeding of my brother hath been to my father, and that it never did 
 cost my Lord Brooke a penny. This is some trick put upon my brother, 
 as to possess the world with an opinion that my Lord Brooke should be at
 
 484 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 great charge with breeding my brother and so take off the charge of the 
 world for what injury he hath otherwise done my brother. I well am 
 assured that this letter was not written to my brother, but to my cousin 
 John Harris then residing in France. I humbly desire that, because it 
 toucheth my father and my brother, they may be stopped coming out 
 till I make my brother acquainted with it, and that you may see the 
 truth of this. 
 
 1632, November 22. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty, at Court. 
 
 I have now prevailed here with the Judge of the Council that he 
 hath prohibited the exporting of our English gold. He condemned a 
 Fleming in 5 sterling amend for proffering it in payment ; by which 
 means not having free course may return from whence it came. News 
 is come that Monsieur de Toran, Governor of Casall, hath rendered it in 
 possession to the Spaniard; he is brother to the Bishop of Alba, who 
 was of the Duke of Orleans his part, but is retired into Spain. This 
 news proving true may make new wars, for there is great discontent for 
 the death of M. de Memorency (Montmorency ?). 
 
 1632, November 23. Rouen. Richard Bogan to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary of State to His Majesty, at Court. 
 
 In my last 1 advised of what reported concerning Casall in Italy. I 
 have now certain notice of the sudden death of Marischai Schomberg in 
 his government of Languedoc ; and of the indisposition of the Cardinal 
 passing towards Rochelle, but since recovered but much weakened. 
 The Duke of Longueville, Governor of this province, confined to his 
 house at Collombiers, till the king's further pleasure. r ihe Duke of 
 Memorency and he loved entirely. The King's Attorney General 
 telleth me to have prevailed with this parliament to defend the exporting 
 of English gold. 
 
 Mr. Burlamachi assured me that the warrant for taking- away the 
 patent for cards was signed. I presumed to buy some, which I will 
 send that they may see the effect of your Honour's promises ; by which 
 means they here may permit our merchants free passage, and liberty to 
 bring in our manufactures. 
 
 1632, November 26. Whitehall. Sir John Coke's draft of his letter 
 to Sir Robert Anstruther, Ambassador Extraordinary for His Majesty 
 of Great Britain in Germany. 
 
 I write to acquaint you with his Majesty's pleasure for your staving 
 in those parts till you receive further instructions from him. The change 
 of the present face of the affairs causes this alteration, which as it is an 
 assurance to you of his Majesty's trust in you, and how he values your 
 service, so it may give you reason of extraordinary merit in it. I write 
 in haste to require you to stay at Hamburg. 
 
 1632, November 25. Bishop of Durham's House in St. John's. 
 Thomas Morton, Bishop of Durham, to Sir John Coke. 
 
 " Salutem in Christo Jesu." I present unto you a subject of great 
 commiseration in this bearer whom I know to be able and painsful in 
 his ministry, and I intreat you to give him your best furtherance. 
 
 1632, November 29. Brainfort (Brentford). Mary Lady Anstrmher 
 to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State and of His 
 Majesty's most honourable Privy Council. 
 
 Having heard by an uncertain rumour that m}' husband's return for 
 England is stopped by a countermand from His Majesty, I desire that
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION 485 
 
 you would be pleased that I may know whether it be so or not and Coke mss. 
 whither His Majesty's commands do lead him. 
 
 1632, November 29. His Majesty's ship Victory in the Downs. 
 Captain Richard Plumleighe to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary of State, at Whitehall. 
 
 Leaving behind me the St. Denys and the Dreadnought, myself 
 with the Bonad venture arrived this 29th in the Downs, where I will 
 attend your further pleasure. We find here only 2 States men-of-war. 
 I have not yet inquired what order Captain Digby hath left here for 
 the Salutation of Yarmouth. 
 
 1632, JSovember 29. Durham House. Thomas Alured to Mr. 
 Secretary Coke. 
 
 I thank you for the noble favour you have done my friend and 
 neighbour Mr. Temple : he hath som friends, as my Lord of Carlisle 
 and others, who know his breeding and abilities have fitted him for other 
 employment than only to bear a battle axe as a Pensioner. In Irish 
 business his experience as well as his breeding hath been much. 
 
 1632, November 30. H.M.S. Victory. Captain R. Plumleighe to 
 Sir John Coke. 
 
 I received your honour's letter for the discharge of your kinsman 
 Captain Kirke out of the St. Denys. I have addressed a letter to 
 him for his discharge without contradiction, and on the arrival of the 
 St. Denys here (in the Downs) I will take him into my own care. 
 
 (1632, November .\ Sir Francis Coke (brother) to Sir John 
 Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 By your letters I received a great deal of solid comfort as well to ease 
 me in my own present griefs in the loss of my dear wife (though I 
 account her not lost who is in Cod), as also in my present ill health, and 
 it also did greatly rejoice my heart to hear of my brother's great 
 advancement to be made Bishop of Bristol. This we must first acknow- 
 ledge to come from Cod, next from His Majesty, by your only means. 
 I pray Cod bless you for it and grant that your friends and the State 
 may long enjoy you. I thank you for Mr. Revell. Your servant 
 Mr. Newton came by Melbourne, and desired me to certify you that 
 your tenants are backward in paying. It is alleged that they are 
 poor cottiers, but Mr. Newton saith that many of those which are behind 
 with rent are such as take ground of you, and cannot be so poor. 
 
 1632, December 1. Annesley. Lord Chaworth to Sir John Coke, 
 Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 I am an humble suitor unto you, Sir, to move His Majesty grant me 
 have to bring my wife up with me to the physicians in London for the 
 great necessity of her health That this is no idle excuse yourself 
 knoweth by the trouble you had about her pass to the Aspa (Spa in 
 Belgium) which truly did her more good than all other experiments, and 
 His Majesty also knows that, in opinion it was the Evil, she hath tried 
 the cure of his hand. I do presume His Majesty will not deny me the 
 comfort, or her the means to health, the rather for that, in obedience to 
 proclamation, we leave our son ai one of my houses, with a competent 
 family for house-keeping in the country. 
 
 1632, December 4. Plymouth. Philip Andrews, Mayor, and 7 
 aldermen of Plymouth, to Sir John Coke, Principal Secretary to His 
 Majesty.
 
 486 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke mss. Your love and zeal to the spiritual welfare of this Corporation in the 
 
 recommendation of Mr. Gross to the Lord Bishop of our diocese, 
 challenge from us a dutiful acknowledgment of our obligement to your 
 honour. We have appointed the bearer to acquaint you with the truth 
 and justice of all our proceedings, and we doubt not but you will still 
 remain a constant friend to equity, justice, and truth, and in that to us. 
 
 1632, December 5. Victory in the Downs. William Cooke to Sir 
 John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 Having been appointed Master to the Victory, which may be called 
 in, asks that he may have his employment confirmed from January next, 
 and not lose his turn to be employed in the river. 
 
 1632, December 6. Victory in the Downs. Captain Richard Plum- 
 lei ghe to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretory of State, at 
 Whitehall. 
 
 The Dreadnought and St. Denys arrived. The whole fleet is ready to 
 put to sea whensoever we shall receive directions from above. Captain 
 Digby not yet returned. I sent, by your honour's kinsman, to Captain 
 Roiden and provided him of what was necessary for his journey. 
 
 1632, December 12. Westminster. "A draft of a letter to the 
 Lords Justices for staying their proceedings against the Recusants." 
 " To the Lords Justices alone." 
 
 Whereas by letters unto our Treasurer of England of the 26th of 
 February last you gave advice for the levying the 12c/. a Sunday imposed 
 by statute upon such as forbear to come to church towards the main- 
 tenance of our army there. Now we understand that, both contrary to 
 your own original counsel and our express pleasure, you have before the 
 28th of October last given direction for levying the duty upon divers 
 our subjects within the County of Wicklow, which we cannot take nor 
 esteem other than a very unadvised part. These are therefore straitly 
 to charge and require you that you forthwith rectify this your great 
 error, by calling in and superseding all warrants and other proceedings 
 had upon the presentments taken upon the said statute. We are also 
 given to understand that, being further required by our said letters of 
 14th of April, to enter the same in our Council Book and Signet|Offiee 
 there, .... you of yourselves have seemingly entered it into the 
 Council Book indeed, but presently sealed it up again, and kept it ever 
 since concealed and secret. We do not in these particulars know how 
 to interpret your meaning, but sure we do conceive that our service and 
 ministers here have suffered very much thereby, and therefore do now 
 again require you to publish the same, and to admit as many as will to 
 have copies thereof. 
 
 1632, December 14. London. William Astell to Sir John Coke. 
 
 The Earl of Roxburgh hath given me free leave to dispose of my suit 
 for subpoena as I shall think good. If I find a fair and free passage with 
 the Lord Keeper I then count it effected and hope to execute the place 
 at 500/. per annum or to have 200/. per annum out of the profit . of the 
 suit. The further consideration 1 leave to your Honour's wisdom. 
 
 1632, | de Decembre. Dit et donne par ecrit a son Excellence 
 Monsieur le Prince d'Orange a la Haye par Francois de Netheisole. 
 
 Sa Majeste m'a commande de condouloir de sa part avec votre 
 Excellence de la mort inopinee du feu son tres cher beau-frere votre 
 neveu. Quelles sont les intentions et conseils de sa Majeste je
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 48? 
 
 viens de declarer tout au long a Messieurs les Etats Generaux, et Coke MSS 
 vous prierai de la part de sa Majeste de les assister de votre prudent 
 avis, et de les porter, par votre credit et autorite aupres d'eux, de faire 
 la dessus une bonne et forte declaration de leurs intentions en faveur de 
 la Reine votre niece et de Messeigneurs les princes vos arriere-neveux. 
 Four fin sa Majeste na'a conamande de remercier votre Excellence de 
 tant des demonstrations de votre courtoisie amitie et respect envers la 
 dite Reine sa soeur, et du soin de ses enfants durant leur sejour en vos 
 pays, et de vous prier d'y vouloir perseverer tant plus qu'ils en auront 
 dorenavant plus de besoin. En quoi V. E. obligera sa M. de s'en 
 revancher en toutes occasions aux quelles elle pourra temoigner au mondo 
 l'estime qu'elle fait et de la personne de V. E. et de sou amitie. 
 
 1632, December 19. Victory in the Downs. Captain Richard Pluni- 
 leighe to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal Secretary of State, at 
 Whitehall. 
 
 Your letters of the 16th present came into the Downs the 18th at 
 night. Presently upon the receipt I caused Captain Sydenham to 
 supply the Whelp with 14 days victual, and the 19th early in the morning 
 she set sail for Dunkirk. Such is the weather here that sometimes for 14 
 days together we can take in nothing without endangering the loss of 
 the bark or hoy that brings it. There ride at this instant 7 sail of 
 Dunkirkers without the South Foreland, which the last week fell into a 
 fleet of Hollanders bound for Rouen, and forced two men-of-war their 
 wafters to make haste into the Downs and leave their convoy to 
 discretion, most of which they have disposed of into Dunkirk. 
 
 1632, December 21. Wallingford House. 
 
 Copy of an order of Lord Weston [Lord Treasurer] and Lord Cot- 
 tington to Customer, &c. at port of Saudwich to take notice of perform- 
 ance of letters patent for licence to merchants of Belgium living under 
 the obedience of the King of Spain to transport beyond the seas gold or 
 silver not above 2,000 in one ship. 
 
 1632, December 23. Dieppe. M. Montigny, Gouverneur de Dieppe, a 
 Monsieur M. Coke, Conseiller et Secretaire du Roi de la Grande 
 Bretagne, a Londres. 
 
 J'ai recu votre lettre du 12 me de Novembre et vu comme le Roi de 
 la Grande Bretagne desire qu'on execute l'intcntion des conges que 
 Monsieur sou Ainiral des Cinq Forts renouvelle tous les aus, ce que 
 j'estime tres juste et raisonnable, et ii l'effet duquel je me porterai avec 
 grand soin. Les bateaux dont nous avons la permission ne vont quasi 
 point du tout a la cote d'Angleterre. 
 
 1632, December 23. Sir Edward Doling to the Earl of Suffolk, 
 Lord Warden of the Cinque Forts. 
 
 The propci tion of powder in Dover Castle is so small that after fresh 
 occasion as this there will not be a corn of powder left, if it will hold 
 out so loug. But for the castles in the Downs and the two bulwarks in 
 Dover, none of them have any sufficiency of provision of powder, and 
 some; of them are so distinguished that they must be silent whilst others 
 gratulate Her Highness' landing. For Walmer Castle had no other 
 powder but three pieces only loaded about a twelvemonth time as your 
 Lordship knows. If any supply be sent 1 suppose it will be near twenty 
 barrels to each of the little castles, and above fifty into Dover Castle. 
 Whether the Queen of Bohemia be entertained in jour Lordship's or in 
 the King's lodgings within this castle, much preparation will be neces- 
 sary, as well for furniture and utensils of all kinds, as for repairs of
 
 488 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 Coke MSS. leads and windows. I do not know what warrant the Merchant Be la 
 Barre had, but in April last he did send over into Marseilles in France 
 121 pieces of iron ordnance and 30 tons of shot. 
 
 1632, Becember. Sir Francis Coke to Sir John Coke, Knight, Principal 
 Secretary to His Majesty. 
 
 As for your occasions at Melburne this bearer can inform you fully 
 and for anything I can perceive, it will behove you to take some 
 order for the settling of your estate there in some certainty with my 
 Lord of Huntingdon and the freeholders or to suffer loss still. They 
 are a multitude of stubborn people, and with forbearance they are made 
 worse. I thank you for the comforts you vouchsafed to my son Francis. 
 
 LONDON: Printed by E t r, e and Spoiiiswooiie, 
 
 Printers to the Queen's most Excellent Majesty. 
 
 For Her Majesty's Stationery Office.
 
 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 
 
 TWELFTH REPORT, APPENDIX, PART I. 
 
 THE 
 
 MANUSCRIPTS 
 
 OF THE 
 
 EARL COWPER, K.G., 
 
 PRESERVED kT 
 
 MELBOURNE HALL, DERBYSHIRE. 
 
 VOL. I. 
 
 Pre&titrtf to iatl) ^outfoi 0{ parliament fig Command of f&er tfrlajcsiti!. 
 
 LONDON: 
 PRINTED FOR HER MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE, 
 
 BY EYIiE AND SPOTTISWOODE, 
 PRINTERS TO THE QUEEN'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY. 
 
 And to be purchased, either directly or through any Bookseller, from 
 
 EYRE and SPOTTISWOODE, East Harding Street, Fleet Street, E.G., and 
 32, Abingdon Street, Westminster, S.W. j or 
 
 ADAM and CHARLES BLACK, 6, North Bridge, Edinburgh ; or 
 
 HODGES', FIGGIS, & Co., 104, Grafton Street, Dublin. 
 
 1888.
 
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