Cotton MS Caligula D I

Volume of records and papers concerning England and Scotland, mainly between 1587 and 1589. Damaged and many sheets lost (see Planta).

Harley MS 4647, Add MS 4248, and Harley MS 6680-4684 contain transcripts from many of these papers.

ff. 1r-26v: Fragment of a treatise, titled ‘Detectio Mariae’. Latin.

ff. 27r-28v: Contract between Queen Elizabeth I and the nobility of Scotland. Against and invasion of French forces. May, 1560. With names subscribed in the hand of Francis Walsingham.

f. 29r: Letter from Rudolf II, Holy Roman Emperor, to John, Duke of Austria and Governor of the Low Countries. Vienna, October 4 1577. Latin.

f. 29v-31r: Letters patent of Mary, Queen of Scots. For a meeting at York. Perth, August 24, 1562.

ff. 31v-36r: Thirteen poems, attributed to George Buchanan. Latin and French.

ff. 37r-88v: Discourse titled ‘[A D]iscourse plainlie prooveinge that [as] well the sentence of death latelie given against that unfortunate ladie Marie late Queene of Scotts as also the execution of the same sentence were honourable just necessarie and lawfull’. March 1587.

f. 89r-89v: Letter from Henry de Lorraine, Duke of Guise, to the executors and council of the late Mary, Queen of Scots. Recommending her secretary Claude Nau. October 16 1587. French.

f. 89v: Extract of a letter from Henry de Lorraine, Duke of Guise, to William Erskine, Archbishop of Glasgow. In favour of Claude Nau. Joigny, October 16 1587. French.

f. 90r-90v: Paper of Mary, Queen of Scots. In favour of Claude Nau. Tutbury, September 29 1585. French.

f. 90v: Extract of a letter from Mary, Queen of Scots, to Henry de Lorraine, Duke of Guise. Recommending Claude Nau and Gilbert Curle. French.

ff. 90v-91r: Declaration by Gilbert Curle. Concerning certain letters and papers. August 6 1587. With a certification by Claude Nau that the five preceding articles are true copies from the originals. Paris, March 2 1605.

ff. 92r-93r: Titles of speeches by Queen Elizabeth I to Archibald Douglas. Concerning her dislike of the actions of King James VI. In the hands of William Cecil, Baron Burghley, and his secretary Henry Maynard. December 1587.

ff. 94r-95v: Letter from Roger Aston to Francis Walsingham. Concerning the intended marriage of King James VI, and attempts on the borders. August 19 1587.

f. 96r-96v: Commission of King James VI to Mr Carmichael, Mr Home, and Mr Young. To negotiate concerning the borders. Holyroodhouse, January 18 1587.

f. 97r-97v: Letter from Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon, to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Sending cautions concerning King James VI. Berwick, January 23 1587.

ff. 98r-99r: Notes sent to William Cecil, Baron Burghley, attributed to Archibald Douglas. Concerning advice. March 25 1587.

f. 100r-100v: Complaints from the Middle Marches, since the treaty of Berwick. 1587.

f. 102r-103v: Letter from King James VI to Queen Elizabeth I. Expostulating on the treatment of his mother. Holyroodhouse, January 26 1586. French.

ff. 104v-105v: Letter from King James VI to his ambassador in England. Concerning his mother’s sentence. [1582].

f. 106r: Letter from Sir Simon Musgrave to Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. Concerning crimes on the borders. Edenhall, November 16 1587.

f. 107r-107v: Letter from Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon, to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Sending intelligence from Scotland and the borders. Berwick, October 18 1587.

f. 108r: Notes from the above letters of Roger Aston and Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon of October 18 1587.

ff. 109r-110v: Letter from Sir Lewis Bellenden, justice clerk, to Archibald Douglas. Concerning affairs between England and Scotland. Holyroodhouse, October 24 1587.

ff. 111r-112v: Instructions of King James VI to Mr Carmichael, on his dispatch to Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon. March 10 1587.

f. 113r: Letter from King Henry III of France to one Courcelles. Concerning the conduct of King James VI with respect to his mother. Coutersigned by Brulart, secretary to King Henry. Paris, March 14 1587. French.

f. 114r: Letter from Brulart, secretary to King Henry III of France, to Courcelles. Concerning remittance of money, and advising him to continue his services in Scotland. Paris, March 17 1587. French.

ff. 115r-123v: Account of the trial of Mary, Queen of Scots. No date.

f. 124r: Fragment of a collection of paradoxes. Mainly the second paradox, which relates to liberty of conscience.

f. 126r: Letter from Monsieur de Chateauneuf to Courcelles. Concerning the accusation brought against him by Stafford and Moody. London, February 7 1587. French.

f. 127r-127v: Fragment relating to a meeting between the English and Scottish commissioners at Berwick. February 12 1587.

ff. 128r-129r: Paper containing matters proposed by the English commissioners, for which they require the assent of the Scottish commissioners in writing. February 22 1587.

f. 130r-130v: Articles of an agreement concerning border matters. February 24 1587.

f. 130v-131r: Note from William Cecil, Baron Burghley, to Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon. Containing instructions for a letter from Hunsdon to King James VI. February 3 1587.

ff. 131r-132r: Copy of the above instructions (ff. 111r-112v) of King James VI to Mr Carmichael, on his dispatch to Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon. March 10 1587.

ff. 133r-136v: Paper by Francis Walsingham justifying the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots. Sent to the Chancellor of Scotland, for the use of King James VI. March 1587. In the hand of Ralph Starkey (see Tite).

f. 137r: Letter from Sir Amias Paulet, Drew Drury and Robert Beale to Sir Richard Knightly, a Lieutenant of Norfolk. Summoning him to a county meeting. Fotheringay, February 1 1587.

f. 138r: Letter from King Henry III of France to Courcelles. Commending the conduct of King James VI with regard to his mother. Paris, February 1 1587. Countersigned by Brulart. French.

f. 139r: Letter from King Henry III of France to Courcelles. On the same subject as above (f. 138r). Paris, December 24 1586. French.

f. 140r-141v: List of counsellors established at the last Parliament in Scotland. 1587.

ff. 142r-148v: Summary of a discourse between Queen Elizabeth I and Archibald Douglas. Concerning offers made by King James VI. 1587.

f. 149r: Fragment concerning the embassy into Scotland of William Chisholm, Bishop of Dunblane. From King Philip II of Spain and Pope Sixtus V. 1587.

ff. 149r-155v: Collection of historical tracts, including: a charge against George Gordon, fifth Earl of Huntley, for sending letters into Spain, of which he was cleared; the brig of Dee; the first road of the abbey of Holyroodhouse, the murder of James Stuart, second Earl of Moray; the road of Falkland; the second road of the abbey of Holyroodhouse; the Spanish blanks; a tumult in Edinburgh on December 17 1597; the death of George Gordon, fifth Earl of Huntley; and a list of nobility. The final two pages (ff. 154-155) are probably in the hand of William Camden (see Tite).

ff. 156r-158v: Instructions from Queen Elizabeth I to Robert Carey. On his dispatch to King James VI. July 16 1588.

f. 159r: Account by Robert Bowes concerning £2000 sent into Scotland in July, and £3000 sent in September. 1588.

ff. 160r-167v: Instructions sent by the English ministry to Richard Wigmore. On his dispatch into Scotland. June 1588.

f. 168r-168v: Notes on letters sent in cipher by the Earls of Huntley and Morton, Claude Hamilton and Robert Bruce, to King Philip II of Spain and Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma. January 24 1588.

ff. 169r-170v: Instructions sent by Queen Elizabeth I to Robert Bowes. On his dispatch to Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon, and others, in the absence of King James VI in Denmark. December 1589.

ff. 171r-172v: Notes of instructions sent to an unnamed English ambassador in Scotland. Partly in the hand of William Cecil, Baron Burghley. December 1 1589.

ff. 173r-174v: Notes of a proclamation made at Edinburgh the day following the embarking of King James VI. October 22 1589.

f. 175r: List of Scottish nobility. September 1589.

f. 176r: Part of the below fragments (ff. 454-479), in the hand of Robert Cotton (see Tite).

ff. 177-178v: Instructions from King James VI to the Scottish commissioners sent to Denmark to conclude the marriage between the King and Anne of Denmark. June 1589.

ff. 179r-180v: Articles of indictment against the Earls of Huntley, Bothwell, and Crawford. May 24 1589.

ff. 181r-185v: Notes on the present state of the nobility in Scotland, with sketches of their descents in the margin. April 10 1589.

f. 186r: Copy of the above articles (ff. 179r-180v) of indictment, with an additional paragraph. May 24 1589.

f. 187r: Letter from the Francis Stewart, fifth Earl of Bothwell, to Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma. Concerning the state of Scotland. March 17 1589.

ff. 187r-189r: Instructions from the Earl of Bothwell to a messenger sent to Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma. March 17 1589.

ff. 190r-193r: Letter from Robert Douglas to Archibald Douglas, ambassador from Scotland. Edinburgh, March 8 1589.

f. 194r-194v: Letter from the Earls of Huntley and Morton, and Claude Hamilton, to King Philip II of Spain. On behalf of the Catholic gentlemen of Scotland. Edinburgh, January 24 1589. French.

f. 195r: Fragment of a letter from William Cecil, Baron Burghley, to Henry Radclyffe, fourth Earl of Sussex. Ely Place, December 2 1587.

f. 196r: Letter from Richard Fletcher, dean of Peterborough, possibly to Henry Radclyffe, fourth Earl of Sussex. Sending thanks, and solicitations for further favour. Oatlands, September 3 1587.

f. 197r-197v: Letter from Francis Walsingham to Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. Concerning negotiations over Scottish affairs. Savoy, January 23 1587.

ff. 189r-199r: Letter from Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon, to an unknown recipient. Sending intelligence from Scotland. Berwick, November 25 1587.

f. 200r: Letter from William Stewart to King James VI. Recommending the Laird of Ladyland. Stein, November 13 1587.

f. 201r-201v: Letter from Henry Scrope, Baron Scrope, possibly to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence on Scottish affairs. Carlisle, November 15 1587.

ff. 202r-203v: Letter from Sir Henry Widdrington to Francis Walsingham. Concerning the charges brought against the Master of Gray. Berwick, May 12 1587.

f. 204r: Letter from Archibald Douglas to an unknown correspondent. Sending intelligence concerning Scottish affairs. London, September 5 1587.

ff. 205r-206v: Letter from John Erskine, Earl of Mar, to a unknown correspondent. Sending advertisements concerning the Scottish Parliament. July 17 1587.

ff. 207r-208r: Letter from Brulart, secretary to King Henry III of France, to Courcelles. On the death of Mary, Queen of Scots. Paris, March 20 1587. French.

f. 209r: Letter from King Henry III of France to Courcelles. Concerning the conduct of King James VI with regard to his mother. Countersigned by Brulart. Paris, March 28 1587. French.

f. 210r: Letter from King Henry III of France to Courcelles. Reproaching the cruelty of Queen Elizabeth I with regard to Mary, Queen of Scots. Countersigned by Brulart. Paris, June 11 1587. French.

f. 211r-211v: Letter from Brulart, secretary to King Henry III of France, to Courcelles. Urging that King James VI ought to revenge his mother’s death. Paris, June 11 1587. French.

f. 212r-212v: Letter from King Henry III of France to Courcelles. Discussing the death of Mary, Queen of Scots, and sending intelligence concerning the King of Navarre. Countersigned by Brulart. Paris, March 14 1587. French.

f. 213r-213v: Letter from King Henry III of France to Courcelles. Recommending an alliance between Scotland and France as advantageous to Scotland. Countersigned by Brulart. Paris, April 13 1587. French.

f. 214r-214v: Letter from King Henry III of France to Courcelles. On the expedition of Sir Francis Drake. Countersigned by Brulart. Paris, July 17 1587. French.

f. 215r-215v: Paper on propositions made in the council of Scotland. Concerning the administration of laws. The latter part titled ‘Regles pour le Roy et son pays’. April 1587.

ff. 216r-221r: Letter from William Cecil, Baron Burghley, to an unknown recipient. On some answers given by King James VI in response to representations from Queen Elizabeth I. April 5 1588.

ff. 222r-223v: Letter from Queen Elizabeth I to her ambassador in France. Concerning the confinement of Mary, Queen of Scots, in Lochleven. In the hand of William Cecil, Baron Burghley. 1567.

f. 224r-224v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that King James VI declares himself satisfied of Queen Elizabeth I’s innocence concerning his mother’s death, and discussing pensions. Edinburgh, August 8 1588.

f. 225r-225v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence, and discussing the same matters as above (f. 225r-225v). Edinburgh, August 6 1558.

ff. 226r-227v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that a Spanish ship had been wrecked in Ireland and others in Norway. With intelligence on the Scottish court and the Catholic faction. Edinburgh, October 13 1588.

ff. 228r-229v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that King James VI is reconciling all parties in his realm. Edinburgh, November 26 1588.

ff. 230r-231v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that the Scottish forces are discontented with England, sending news on Spanish citizens saved from the shipwreck in Ireland, and relating that the Earl of Huntley has submitted to the King. Edinburgh, November 6 1588.

f. 232r-232v: Letter from Roger Aston to his brother John Hudson. Reporting that King James VI is well disposed towards England, and that a Spanish ship has been blown up among the isles. Edinburgh, March 8 1588.

f. 233r-233v: Letter from Roger Aston to his brother John Hudson. Sending intelligence. Edinburgh, November 13 1588.

ff. 234r-235v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that the Earl of Huntley has been reconciled with King James VI and the church, that Francis Stewart, fifth Earl of Bothwell, is wilfully disobedient, and that two hundred Spanish citizens have landed in the West. Edinburgh, November 30 1588.

ff. 236r-237v: Letter from Roger Aston to his brother John Hudson. Sending intelligence on a convention in Scotland and reporting that an emissary has arrived from Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma, in the Spanish interest. Edinburgh, December 1 1588.

f. 238r-238v: Letter from Sir Henry Widdrington to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence concerning the court of Scotland, reporting that the Earl of Huntley is in favour, and more on the shipwrecked Spanish citizens. Berwick, December 29 1588.

ff. 239r-240v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting on the demands of King James VI, and various intelligence. Edinburgh, August 10 1588.

ff. 241r-242v: Letter from William Asheby to Queen Elizabeth I. Giving a favourable account of King James VI. Edinburgh, September 7 1588. Annotated by William Cecil, Baron Burghley (see Tite).

ff. 243r-244v: Letter from Robert Bowes to Francis Walsingham. Concerning the Spanish ships on the Scottish coast, and money remitted into Scotland. Berwick, September 10 1588.

f. 245r-245v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence concerning a convention, and the Spanish ships. Edinburgh, September 19 1588.

f. 246r-246v: Letter from Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon, to Francis Walsingham. Cautioning Walsingham against the sincerity of King James VI, and reporting the defeat of Henry de Lorraine, Duke of Guise. Berwick, January 17 1587/8.

f. 247r-248v: Paper of considerations concerning the present state of the borders, according to their members. September 20 1588.

ff. 249r-250v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence from Scotland, reporting that King James VI and the church are not well obeyed, and the King is well affected to England. Edinburgh, February 15 1588/9.

ff. 251r-252v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Concerning the intended marriage of King James VI, and the Spanish ships in Scotland. Edinburgh, February 8 1588/9.

ff. 253r-254v: Letter from Robert Bowes to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence concerning a proclamation against papists, and a convention. Berwick, May 25 1588.

ff. 255r-256v: Letter from Robert Bowes to Francis Walsingham. Reporting a conversation with Mr Carmichael concerning favours bestowed by Queen Elizabeth I on King James VI. Berwick, July 9 1588.

f. 257r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting on offers made to King James VI by himself, in the queen’s name, and by the Spanish. Edinburgh, August 3 1588.

f. 258r-258v: Letter from William Fowler to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence from Scotland concerning the Spanish delegation. Edinburgh, January 17 1588/9.

f. 259r-259v: Letter from Sir Robert Sidney to Francis Walsingham. Reporting his arrival in Edinburgh and the state of affairs there. Edinburgh, August 30 1588.

f. 260r-260v: Letter from Sir Robert Sidney to Francis Walsingham. On the pension expected by King James VI. Haddington, August 28 1588.

ff. 261r-262v: Letter from Sir Robert Sidney to Francis Walsingham. On a plot to kill John Maitland, Lord Maitland of Thirlestane and Chancellor of Scotland. Berwick, August 27 1588.

ff. 263r-264v: Letter from Sir Robert Sidney to Francis Walsingham. Reporting an audience with King James VI. Edinburgh, September 1 1588.

ff. 265r-266v: Letter from Sir Robert Sidney to Francis Walsingham. Reporting a conference with Mr Carmichael. Edinburgh, September 2 1588.

f. 267r: Letter from Roger Aston to his brother John Hudson. Reporting the good disposition of King James VI towards England. Edinburgh. November 13 1588.

f. 268r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Concerning money matters. Berwick, July 9 1588.

f. 269r: Letter from John Hudson to Francis Walsingham. Sending news from Scotland. Undated Saturday, 1588.

ff. 270r-271r: Letter from Roger Aston to his brother John Hudson. On the state of affairs in Scotland. 1588.

f. 272r: Letter from Francis Dacre to Francis Walsingham. Complaining of crimes committed on his tenants. July 25 1588.

f. 273r: Note containing intelligence on Queen Anne’s voyage from Denmark. October 11 1589.

f. 274r: Copy of a letter containing intelligence from Scotland. November 13 1588.

f. 275r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. On his return to court, and the favour of King James VI. Berwick, July 21 1588.

f. 276r-276v: Letter from Sir Henry Widdrington, possibly to Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon. Concerning the arrival of a Spanish ship in the Frith, and some resulting occurences at court. Berwick, August 11 1588.

f. 277r: Letter from John Selby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting an inroad on the borders. Berwick, October 6 1588.

f. 278r: Advertisements from the borders, concerning the proposed visit of King James VI. Carlisle, June 13 1588.

f. 279r-279v: Letter from Francis Walsingham to William Asheby. Instructing him to negotiate with King James VI. Greenwich, October 29 1588.

ff. 280r-281v: Paper containing intelligence from Scotland, and news that many lords and noblemen unite to resist the Spanish forces and papists. May 1588.

ff. 281r-284r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Concerning the bounty of Queen Elizabeth I to King James VI. August 30 1588.

f. 285r: Letter from King James VI to Francis Walsingham. Recommending the case of the bearer. Edinburgh, September 13 1588.

f. 286r-286v: Letter from Francis Dacre to Francis Walsingham. Concerning affairs on the borders. Carlisle, July 25 1588.

ff. 287r-288v: Letter containing intelligence from Scotland, concerning negotiations. No date.

f. 289r-289v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Concerning his reception in Scotland, and reporting that Courcelles departed without taking leave. Edinburgh, July 20 1588.

ff. 290r-291v: Letter from Francis Walsingham to William Asheby. Concerning the negotiations with King James VI. November 1588.

ff. 292r-293v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Sending various intelligence. Edinburgh, September 8 1588.

f. 294r-294v: Letter from Sir William Keith to Francis Walsingham. Concerning the matches proposed for King James VI. From the Scottish court, March 18 1588.

f. 295r-295v: Letter to Francis Walsingham, possibly from Rogert Aston. Sending intelligence on the Earl of Huntley and Sir John Seton. [1588].

f. 296r: Letter from Sir Henry Widdrington to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that the northern Lords plan to aid the Spanish forces. Berwick, June 29 1588.

f. 297r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting the arrival of a large Spanish ship at the Isle of Ella. Edinburgh, September 23 1588.

f. 298r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that Sir Robert Sidney has been well received with his ‘legion of angels’ and Mr Carmichael has been sent to the west borders to suppress dissent. Edinburgh, September 12 1588.

f. 299r: Letter from William Fowler to Francis Walsingham. Sending thanks for his good offices, and intelligence. Edinburgh, September 12 1588.

f. 300r: Safe-conduct for the Earl of Crawford and Lord Saneker, issued by Queen Elizabeth I. Edinburgh, March 1588.

f. 301r: Letter from Francis Stewart, fifth Earl of Bothwell, to his father in law David Douglas, Earl of Angus and ambassador in England. In favour of John Drury, whose ship has been pillaged in Southampton. Leith, September 19 1588.

f. 302r: Letter from Sir John Forester to Francis Walsingham. On border matters. Alnwick, December 16 1588.

f. 303r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that King James VI is disposed to act against Spanish forces on his coast. Edinburgh, August 3 1588.

f. 304r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Sending various intelligence, including on Sir Robert Sidney’s visit to Edinburgh. Edinburgh, August 26 1588.

ff. 305r-306v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that Sir Robert Sidney is expected with his ‘aurum potablile’, and discussing the Spanish fleet, and the disposition of the King and lords. Edinburgh, August 22 1588.

f. 307r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence and discussing the visit of Sir Robert Sidney. Edinburgh, August 18 1588.

f. 308r: Letter from William Fowler to Francis Walsingham. Reporting the suspicious movements of the Earls of Bothwell and Huntley. April 8 1589.

f. 309r: Letter from King James VI to Francis Walsingham. Sending thanks for his affection. Holyroodhouse, March 24 1588.

f. 310r: Letter from Archibald Douglas to Francis Walsingham. Consulting on some matters respecting his conduct, and some detained ships. July 26 1588.

f. 311r: Letter from Archibald Douglas to an unknown correspondent. Lamenting the enmity of his two uncles, which is detrimental to the service of the King. July 1 1588.

f. 312r: Letter from Archibald Douglas to Francis Walsingham. On the northern faction, and requesting a passport for one Hepburn and one Smeaton. June 7 [1588].

f. 313r: Letter from Archibald Douglas to Francis Walsingham. On his negotiations, and news from Scotland. July 8 1588.

f. 314r-314v: Paper containing intelligence from Berwick concerning exchanges between Francis Stewart, fifth Earl of Bothwell, his wife Margaret Douglas, Captain Carey and others. June 28 1588.

f. 315r-315v: Letter from Stephen Ellis to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence from the borders. Carlisle, November 19 1588.

f. 316r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. In commendation of Patrick Maurice, bearer of the letter. Edinburgh, August 1 1588.

ff. 317r-318v: Letter from one Atkinson to Francis Walsingham. Sending thanks for favours, and reporting intelligence on King James VI. Cannongate, July 1588.

f. 319r: Paper containing intelligence from Berwick concerning doubts about King James VI, reports of Spanish invasion, and the murder of Sir William Stewart by Francis Stewart, fifth Earl of Bothwell. August 1 1588.

f. 320r-320v: Letter from Robert Carey to John Maitland, Lord Maitland of Thirlestane and Chancellor of Scotland, and Mr Carmichael. Reporting that he cannot come to Scotland with £2000 he was due to bring, due to an accident. October 27 1588.

f. 321r-321v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting his notification of the Spanish fleet, the sending of French men out of Scotland, and the murder of Sir William Stewart. Edinburgh, July 30 1588.

f. 322r: Letter from Francis Walsingham to William Asheby. Sending instructions regarding the affairs of the United Provinces. Savoy, October 30 1588.

f. 323r: Letter from John Selby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting an inroad on the borders. Berwick, October 9 1588.

f. 324r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that John Maitland, Lord Maitland of Thirlestane, and Lord Weems are well disposed, and discussing a Spanish ship. Edinburgh, September 26 1588.

f. 325r: Letter from King James VI to Francis Walsingham. Recommending James Bannatine. Holyroodhouse, March 14 1588.

ff. 326r-327r: Draft letter from Francis Walsingham to William Asheby. Reproaching him for making unauthorised offers to King James VI. August 22 1588.

f. 328r: Letter from John Selby to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence on King James VI, and Lord Maxwell. Berwick, May 5 1588.

f. 329r-329v: Letter from Robert Bowes to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence on King James VI and the lords of Scotland, and reporting on the Spanish forces. Berwick, May 8 1588.

f. 330r-330v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Exculpating himself concerning offers he made without authority. Edinburgh, August 12 1588.

f. 331r: Letter from one Fowler to Francis Walsingham. Concerning money matters. Edinburgh, February 15 1588.

f. 332r-332v: Letter from Robert Carvil to Francis Walsingham. Concerning some English fugitives. Berwick, February 16 1588.

ff. 333r-334v: Letter to Sir Robert Sidney, possibly from Francis Walsingham. On the death of Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, and Asheby’s unwarranted offers in Scotland. September 7 1588.

f. 335r: Letter from King James VI to Queen Elizabeth. Tendering his best services, and desiring commissioners be sent to ‘perfect his satisfaction’. Edinburgh, August 1 1588.

ff. 336r-337v: Letter from Sir Henry Widdrington to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that King James VI has come to the borders, and holds a diet at Halidon Hill. Berwick, April 30 1588.

f. 338r: Draft letter from Queen Elizabeth I to John Maitland, Lord Maitland of Thirlestane and Chancellor of Scotland. Thanking him for his good offices with King James VI. August 15 1588.

f. 339r-339v: Fragment of a paper containing intelligence on the death of one J. Fletcher, Lord Herries, and the Earl of Bothwell’s affray at Leith. [1588].

f. 340r-340v: Letter from King James VI. Containg a safe-conduct in favour of Sir Robert Sidney. Edinburgh, August 25 1588.

f. 341r: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Thanking him for his mediation, and discussing money matters. Edinburgh, September 1 1588.

f. 342r: Notes concerning the requisition of some lands and timber. Made by Archibald Douglas, Scottish ambassador. 1588.

f. 343r: Paper of intelligence. No date.

f. 344r-344v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting on his first audience, and relating the arrival of Monsieur Clermont d’Amboise on the west coast. Edinburgh, July 25 1588.

f. 345r-345v: Letter from Queen Elizabeth to King James VI. Requesting he resist the Spanish forces on his coast, following the defeat of the Spanish Armada. August 14 1588.

ff. 246r-347v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence on King James VI’s pursuit of Bothwell and the confederate earls, and safe conducts for the Spanish. Edinburgh, April 10 1589. Annotated by William Cecil, Baron Burghley (see Tite).

f. 348r-348v: Letter from Robert Logan, Laird of Restalry, to Patrick Gray, Master of Gray. Sending intelligence and cautions concerning his affairs. Fastcastle, 11 April [1589].

ff. 349r-350v: Letter from one Henry L[…] to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Sending intelligence on the commotions in Scotland following the confederacy. 1589.

ff. 351r-352v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence on the movements of Francis Stewart, fifth Earl of Bothwell, the steadiness of King James VI in the protestant cause, the capture of the Earl of Huntley and the dispersal of the confederates. Edinburgh, May 4 1589.

ff. 353r-354v: Letter from Robert Bowes to William Cecil, Baron Burghley, and Francis Walsingham. On preparing ships to bring King James VI and Anne of Denmark from Copenhagen, a convention and the confederacy. Edinburgh, March 16 1589.

ff. 355r-356v: Letter from Robert Bowes to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Discussing the projects of Francis Stewart, fifth Earl of Bothwell, and a proposal with Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma. Edinburgh, March 24 1589.

ff. 357r-358v: Letter from Robert Bowes to William Cecil, Baron Burghley, and Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence on negotiations and certain people in Scotland. Edinburgh, March 20 1589.

f. 359r: Letter from one Fowler to Francis Walsingham. On the movements of Francis Stewart, fifth Earl of Bothwell, and measures taken by King James VI to resist him. Edinburgh, April 7 1589.

f. 360r: Letter from one J. Gray to an unknown recipient. Reporting that King James VI is resolved to break the confederacy, and gives orders for collecting troops. April 11 1589.

f. 361r: Letter from James Murray to Francis Walsingham. Requesting his mediation for his reinstatement to an office. October 2 1589.

f. 362r-362v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the voyage of Queen Anne, which has been driven on the coast of Norway. Edinburgh, September 15 1589.

ff. 363r-364v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Reporting that King James VI considers himself craftily drawn into the match with Denmark, and sending cautions against Francis Stewart, fifth Earl of Bothwell.

f. 365r-365v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Reporting a new faction against John Maitland, Lord Maitland of Thirlestane and Chancellor of Scotland, and discussing the confederate lords. Edinburgh, August 22 1589.

ff. 366r-367v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the marriage of King James VI; he is disappointed as to the portion of Queen Anne. Discussing the movements of the King. Edinburgh, July 31 1589.

f. 368r: Letter from Archibald Douglas, possibly to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Concerning a declaration on the proceedings against Mary, Queen of Scots. July 1 1589.

ff. 369r-370v: Letter from Patrick Gray, Master of Gray, to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On some intrigues among the Scottish nobility. Edinburgh, June 16 1589.

ff. 371r-372v: Letter from one T. Fowler to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Reporting that the Master of Gray and the Chancellor of Scotland are at variance, that the Master of Gray has been obnoxious to the King, that Cockburn comes down with false reports and that the rebel lords find favour. June 22 1589.

f. 373r-373v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Reporting that King James VI and John Maitland, Lord Maitland of Thirlestane and Chancellor of Scotland, are favourable towards England, but the nobility are not. Edinburgh, June 28 1589.

ff. 374r-375v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Reporting that Sir George Beston has arrived with ships at Leith and some of the crew are badly treated, and sending news of the artful conduct of the Master of Gray. Edinburgh, June 8 1589.

ff. 376r-377v: Letter from T. Fowler to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the marriage of King James VI, and reporting that Patrick Gray, Master of Gray, confers with and John Maitland, Lord Maitland of Thirlestane and Chancellor of Scotland. Edinburgh, June 7 1589.

f. 378r-378v: Letter from Patrick Gray, Master of Gray, to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the stay of the match between King James VI and Anne of Denmark. Edinburgh, June 5 1589.

ff. 379r-381v: Letter from Patrick Gray, Master of Gray, to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the rebel lords, the marriage, and his own vindication. Edinburgh, June 4 1589.

ff. 382r-384r: Letter from T. Fowler to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On a tumult at Edinburgh following the delay of the King’s marriage, and the unpopularity of the English. Edinburgh, 28 [no month] 1589.

f. 385r-285v: Letter from T. Fowler to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the trial of some rebel lords, and the King’s disposition to pardon some. Edinburgh, May 26 1589.

f. 386r-386v: Record of the assize and indictments of the Earls of Huntley, Crawford, Bothwell and others. 1589.

ff. 387r-388v: Letter from T. Fowler to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the rebel lords’ solicitations for pardon. Sent by Joh Selby. Edinburgh, May 11 1589. Annotated by William Cecil, Baron Burghley.

f. 389r-389v: Letter from T. Fowler to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Reporting on intrigues in the Scottish court. Edinburgh, May 4 1589.

ff. 390r-391v: Letter from T. Fowler to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On proceeedings in the Scottish court. Edinburgh, May 10 1589. Annotated by William Cecil, Baron Burghley.

f. 392r-392v: Letter from T. Fowler to the English ambassador in Scotland. Sending intelligence on the Scottish nobility, and reporting the arrival of the Earl of Huntley and the Master of Gray. Edinburgh, April 30 1589.

ff. 393r-394v: Letter from T. Fowler to the English ambassador in Scotland. Reporting that King James VI pursues the Earl of Huntley, who surrenders. Sending information on the King’s proceedings with the lords. Strabogy, April 28 1589.

ff. 395r-397v: Letter from T. Fowler to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On occurrences in Scotland. Edinburgh, March 28 1589.

f. 398r-398v: Letter from Thomas Heneage, Vice Chamberlain, to Francis Walsingham. Reporting a conversation with Queen Elizabeth I about the affairs of Scotland. Chelsea, April 5 1589.

ff. 399r-400v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence on the rebel lords and proceedings with King James VI. Edinburgh, April 24 1589. Annotated by William Cecil, Baron Burghley.

f. 401r-401v: Letter from T. Fowler to the English ambassador in Scotland. Reporting on the proceedings of the court against the rebel lords. Aberdeen, April 22 1589.

f. 402r-402v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Sending intelligence on the rebellion, and Lindsay’s charges against John Maitland, Lord Maitland of Thirlestane and Chancellor of Scotland. Edinburgh, April 21 1589.

f. 403r: Letter from T. Fowler to the English ambassador in Scotland. Sending intelligence concerning the Spanish forces. April 19 1589.

f. 404r-404v: Letter from T. Fowler to William Asheby. Sending intelligence concerning his movements, and those of the Scottish nobility. St. Johnston, April 14 1589.

ff. 405r-406v: Letter from J. Gray to Patrick Gray, Master of Gray. Sending advice about some concerns with Lord Hume, and other intelligence. April 13 1589.

f. 407r-407v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Sending intelligence on King James VI’s visit to Norway. Edinburgh, October 30 1589.

f. 408r-408v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Sending cautions over T. Fowler. October 22 1589.

ff. 409r-410v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Sending intelligence about the friendly professions of the Scottish ministry. Edinburgh, November 7 1589.

f. 411r-411v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Reporting on the favourable dispositions of Francis Stewart, fifth Earl of Bothwell. Edinburgh, November 7 1589.

ff. 412r-413v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Sending intelligence about the Queen of Scotland having been driven into Norway, and the King’s intended voyage. Edinburgh, October 18 1589.

ff. 414r-415v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the voyage of the Queen of Scotland, and sinister omens. Edinburgh, October 8 1589. Annotated by William Cecil, Baron Burghley.

ff. 416r-417v: Letter from T. Fowler to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Sending intelligence on King James VI’s marriage, and court intrigues. Edinburgh, May 14 1589.

f. 418r-418v: Letter from T. Fowler to Francis Walsingham. On the intrigues and venality of the Scottish nobility. Edinburgh, March 26 1589.

ff. 419r-421r: Letter from T. Fowler to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Complaining of William Asheby. Edinburgh, October 31 1589.

ff. 422r-423v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the lenity showed by King James VI to the rebellious lords. Edinburgh, June 28 1589.

ff. 424r-425v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the disaffected lords. Edinburgh, April 2 1589.

f. 426r: Letter from Lord John Hamilton to Francis Walsingham. Sending thanks for good advice, and credentials. Hamilton, June 12 1589.

f. 427r-427v: Letter from George Tollye to Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon. Reporting various intrigues and feuds among the Scottish noblemen. November 17 1589.

f. 428r: Letter from George Talbot, ninth Earl of Shrewsbury, to Henry Radclyffe, fourth Earl of Sussex. Requesting advice concerning his charge of Mary, Queen of Scots. Wingfield, September 18 [1589].

f. 429r-429v: Letter from Francis Dacre to Queen Elizabeth I. Exculpating himself for leaving court. September 17 1589.

f. 430r: Letter from the Earls of Lennox, Hamilton, and Bothwell, to Queen Elizabeth I. Sending thanks for friendly messages, and professing their devotion. Edinburgh, January 2 1589/90.

f. 431r: Letter from King James VI to his council. Sending orders for ships to be sent to him. Copenhagen, March 4 1589/90.

f. 432r-432v: Proclamation of the Scottish council. For all persons to render an account of their faith. Edinburgh, March 6 1589/90.

ff. 433r-437r: Letter from the Earls of Lennox, Hamilton, and Bothwell, to Queen Elizabeth I. On the preservation of amity, and the preparations of the Spanish forces. Edinburgh, January 31 1589/90.

ff. 439r-440v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Sending reports from the Scottish court. Edinburgh, 3 June 1589.

ff. 441r-442v: Letter from T. Fowler to Francis Walsingham. Sending intelligence on some Scottish noblemen intending to attend the marriage: Maxwell, Dacres, and Whittingham. September 26 1589.

f. 443r: Letter from King James VI to the Scottish council. On his going to Norway. Leith, October 22 1589.

f. 445r: Paper containing the protestations of George Gordon, fifth Earl of Huntley, to the ministers, his profession of loyalty to the King, and his dislike of the Chancellor and others. May 1589.

f. 446r-446v: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. Concerning George Gordon, fifth Earl of Huntley. May 11 1589.

f. 447r: Letter from William Asheby to William Cecil, Baron Burghley. On the deputies appointed to fetch the Queen from Copenhagen. Edinburgh, October 15 1589.

f. 448r-448v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Concerning the match, an insurrection at Edinburgh, and the feeble authority of King James VI. Edinburgh, May 29 1589.

f. 449r-449v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Concerning the voyage of the Queen of Scotland. Edinburgh, October 11 1589.

ff. 450r-451v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Reporting that King James VI has called a convention to propose the match. Edinburgh, July 31 1589.

ff. 452r-453v: Letter from John Colvil to William Asheby. Reporting on the return of some deputies from Denmark. Aberdeen, July 22 1589.

ff. 454r-455v: Letter from William Asheby to Francis Walsingham. Sending news from the Scottish court. Edinburgh, [date damaged].

ff. 456r-479v: Fragments of letters, consisting of 23 leaves.