Royal MS 13 B I

REGISTER of letters, in Latin, addressed by Queen Elizabeth to foreign princes and others, together with letters of safe-conduct, &c.; 26 Nov. 1558-8 Oct. 1568. The whole of the letters were evidently composed by Roger Ascham, the Queen's Latin Secretary (d. 30 Dec. 1568), and a few are interspersed which were written by him (except f. 6 b) for other persons. The majority were copied by clerks, but some are in Ascham's own hand, e.g. ff. 1-6, 16-24 (cf. Lansdowne MS. 3, f. 61, and Add. MS. 35840, a similar Register of letters of Queen Mary), and in other cases he has added titles, dates, and marginal notes. Between 16 May and 18 Nov. 1560 (f. 33 b) there is a break, explained by a note in the margin (the first letter in each line cut away by the binder): 'Litteræ omnes a mense Iunio ad Nouembrem vsque sunt in manibus D. Cecilli [Sir William Cecill a me quidem non scriptæ, quia ab Aula, tum temporis duri, hectica febri fere consumptus, aberam. R. A.' Some of the letters (see references below) are printed by J. A. Giles (after Elstob's R. Aschami epistolarum libri quatuor, 1703, and from other sources) in The Whole Works of Roger Ascham, 1864-5, ii. The contents are as follows:

I. Letters in the name of Queen Elizabeth addressed to:

1. Maximilian, King of Bohemia and (1564) Emperor, (a) sending news of her accession by Sir T. Chaloner; 26 Nov. 1558. f. 1;-

(b) accrediting Hen. Knolles and Christ. Mont; 25 Sept. 1562. Giles, ii, p. 69. f. 83;-(c) asking that his physician Michael von Otthen may remain in England for the cure of [Elizabeth] Marchioness of Northampton (d. 2 Apr. 1565); 27 Nov. 1564. f. 124;-(d) acknowledging his letters delivered by his ambassador, Adam Schweckowitz, Baron Mitterburg; 5 Aug. 1565. f. 133;-

(e) accrediting Christ Mont; 22 Feb. 1565[6]. f. 154 b;-(f) explaining the delay in the retum of Philip Sauluage, Baron Rhingraff, from a visit to England; 25 May, 1566. f. 164b;-(g) sending by Oliver, Count of Arco, a reply to his letters; 14 Jan. 1566[7] f. 173 b.

2. Sigismund I, King of Poland, (a) requesting free passage for English merchants, &c. ; 26 Dec. 1558. f. 3;-(b) on behalf of Will. Dickenson and two others, of Danzig, condemned as sureties for Cuthbert Blunt, merchant, of Newcastle, now deceased ; 8 Feb. 1560[1]. f. 39 b;-(c) on behalf of Will. Martin, seeking to recover debt from citizens of Danzig; a^o4 [1562]. Giles, ii, p.80. f. 71 b;-

(d)on the case of W. Martin; 25 Apr. 1564. f. 116;-(e)on a debt incurred by him to Tho. Allen for woollen goods; 25 Nov. 1564 f. 123 b;-(f) complaining of a further grievance in the case of W. Martin; 17 July, 1565. f. 132;-(g) on behalf of T. Allen (see above, e); 8 Mar. 1565[6]. f. 155b;-(h) on wrongs done to English subjects at Danzig; 29 Sept., 1 Nov. 1567. ff. 194 b, 198, 198 b;-(i) on behalf of James Spenser, desiring to trade in Poland; 4 Mar. 1567[8]. f. 209;-(k) on behalf of Giles Grey, whose ship and goods had been seized at Danzig; 20 May, 1568. f. 223;-

(l) on the seizure of English ships by his fleet; 3 July, 1568. f. 230;-(m) cancelling a decree in the interests of W. Martin for the attachment of ships of Danzig; 3 Oct. 1568. f. 250.

3. The Polish lieutenant in Lithuania, asking free passage for English merchants and in favour of Phil. Alcok, merchant, of London; 26 Dec. 1558. f. 3b.

4. Albert, Duke of Prussia, (a) acknowledging a letter and gift of falcons sent to Queen Mary; 28 Dec. 1558. f. 4b;-(b) acknowledging his letters brought by Will. Barlow (whom she has designated as Bishop of Chichester), and on questions of religion; 2 July, 1559. f. 13 b;-(c) acknowledging gifts of falcons; 31 Dec. 1559, 10 Jan. 1560[1], 17 Dec. 1562, 16 Jan. 1562[3], 4 dec. 1565, 9 dec. 1567. ff. 25, 37 b, 68, 86 b, 140 b, 203b;-(d) on behalf of Will. Martin, seeking to recover his father's goods; 1562. f. 74-(e) on behalf of James Spenser, desiring to trade; 4 Mar. 1567[8]. f. 210 b.

5. Philip II of Spain, (a) accrediting Nich. Wooton, Dean of Canterbury; 1 Jan. 1558[9]. f. 5;-(b) eulogizing the count of Feria, Spanish ambassador, on his retirement; [17 May, 1559]. f. 8;-(c) accrediting Sir Tho. Chaloner (2); 8 July, 1559. f. 14;-

(d) concerning an embassy to Spain; 14 Dec 1559. f. 22 b;-

(e) in answer to a request for licence [Jane] Lady Dormer, grandmother of the Countess of Feria, and [Susan] Lady Clarence to remain abroad; 12 Dec. 1560. f. 34 b;-(f) on behalf of agents of Anth. Hickman and Edw. Cascelin, London merchants, Canary Islands; 12 Mar. 1560[1]. f. 44 b;-(g) asking for the maintenance of the old intercourse between the two nations; 7 July, 1561. Giles, ii, p. 43. f. 58;-(h) asking for justice for her subjects in Spain; 21 July, 1561. f. 61;-(i) accrediting Sir Tho. Chaloner as ambassador in place of Tho.Chamberlan; 5 0ct. 1561. f. 61 b;-

(k) complaining of his ambassador, the Bishop of Aquila; July, 1562. Imperf. and obliterated. Giles, ii, p. 88. f. 76;-(l) concerning Guise factions in France, and aid towards the recovery of Calais; 22 Sept. 1562. f. 80;-(m) complaining of his ambassador, the Bishop of Aquila; 9 Jan. 1562[3]. Very similar to Giles, ii, p. 88. f. 85 b;-(n) on the recall of her ambassador on account of ill health, &c.; 12 Dec. 1563. f. 102 b;-(o) enclosing a complaint (f. 105 b) from John White and other London merchants of the seizure of their ships at Gibraltar and the imprisonment of their agents; 1563[4]. f. 108;-(p) on the imprisonment, &c., of English merchants; 17 Mar. 1563[4]. f. 114;-(q) on her ambassador's desire to return to England, &c.; 22 Dec. 1564. f. 125;-(r) on the conference at Bayonne, the relations between them, and her design to send a new ambassador in place of Sir T. Chaloner (d. 14 Oct.); 24 Oct. 1565. f. 137 ;-(s) complaining of the seizure of a ship of Henry Fallofelde, merchant, of London, on a wrongful charge of piracy; 22, Dec. 1565. Giles, ii, p. 122,. f. 143;-(t) asking for a cavalry command for Oliver, Count of Arco; 7 Jan. 1565[6]. f. 146;-(u) accrediting John Man, Dean of Gloucester, as ambassador; 26 Jan. 1565[6]. f. 146 b;-(w) demanding redress for injuries done to English subjects at Gibraltar (cf. ff. 105 b-108); 17 Feb. 1565[6]. f. 151;-(x) renewing her request for a cavalry command for the Count of Arco; 29 Mar. 1567. f. 181 b;-(y) declining his request for the restoration of Sir Francis Englefield's estates; 4 Mar. 1567[8]. f. 215;-(z) asking for a safe-conduct for the return of her ambassador, with whom he is displeased; 3 June, 1568. f. 224b.

6. Sebastian, King of Portugal, (a) complimentary; 15 Apr. 1559. f. 5;-(b) on her prohibition of trade with Portuguese settlements in India; 22 Nov. 1561. Giles, ii, p. 51. f. 65 b;-(c) on the reply given by her to his ambassador, Juan Pereira, etc.; 1562. f. 75 b;-

(d) on the seizure at Lisbon of an English prize, taken by Anth. Courtney; 2 Mar. 1563[4]. f. 113;-(e) on injuries done to Tho. Pope, John Kyrrie, and other English merchants by Luiz de Almeda; 22 Nov. 1565. f. 139;-(f) complaining of injuries to William and George Winter and other English subjects, with the petition (f. 188) of the brothers Winter, 10 Apr., enclosed (Giles, ii, p. 135); 6 May, 1567. f. 186;-(g) on the seizure of a ship of Eustace Oliver and John Walroun, of Exeter; 2 Nov. 1567. f. 202 b.

7. Catharine, Queen-regent of Portugal, widow of John III, complimentary; 15 Apr. 1559. f. 5 b.

8. Ferdinand I, Emperor, (a) complimentary; [Apr. 1559]. f. 7;-

(b) on his proposal that she should marry the Archduke Charles; 2 June, 1559,. f. 16;-(c) on her disinclination for marriage; 11 Jan. 1559[60]. f. 26;-(d) commending George, Count of Helfenstein; 16 May, 1560. f. 33;-(e) assuring him that no arms had been sent from England to Russia; 7 July, 1561. Giles, ii, p. 43. f. 57; -(f) accrediting Henry Knolles and Christopher Mont, LL.D.; 25 Sept. 1562. Giles, ii, p. 70. f. 82 b;-(g) in answer to his intercession for Catholic recusants; 3 Nov. 1563. f. 97 b.

9. Adolph, Duke of Holstein, (a) in the interests of English merchants ; [Apr. 1559]. f. 7 b;-(b) on commercial relations, his friendly attitude, &c.; 20, 22 Oct. 1559. ff. 19. 19 b;-(c) on his desire to visit England, &c. 10 Jan 1559[60]. f. 25;-(d) in favour of Will. Herle, sent to fetch material of war from Hamburg; 29 June, 1561. f. 54 b;-(e) on the case of H. Bullinghausen (cf. f. 99); 14 Nov. 1563. f. 100 b.

10. 'Mac Arte More' [Donyll M^cCarthy More], commending his loyalty, &c.; 4 June, 1559. f. 9.

11. 'Lordes and Gentlemen of Irelande', commending loyalty and threatening punishment for disturbance; [June, 1559] f. 11.

12. Anne, Countess of East Friesland [widow of Enno II, (a) asking licence for Tho. Tomson, merchant, of London, and his agents to purchase munitions of war, &c.; 17 June [1559]. f. 11 b;-

(b) accrediting Capt. John Brigantin; 20 Feb. 1559[60]. f. 31;-

(c) about two ships wrecked on the coast of East Friesland; 18 Nov. 1560. f. 33b;-(d) inquiring as to the authenticity of a letter purporting to be from her; 14 Jan. 1560[1]. f. 38;-(e) together with Edzard II, Christopher, and John, Counts of E. Friesland, her sons, on matters of commerce; 10 Feb. 1564[5]. f. 125b;-(f) together with Counts Edzard and Christopher, on matters of commerce; 27 May, 1565. f. 131 b. At f. 130 is a convention with Count John, 24 May, 1565.

13. John Frederic II, Duke of Saxony, (a) concerning religion 2 July, 1559. f. 12;-(b) accrediting Capt. John brigantin; 20 Feb. 1559 [60]. f. 30;-(c) accrediting Dr. Christopher Mont; 10 Jan. 1560[1], 22 Feb. 1565[6]. ff. 37, 154;-(d) accrediting Hen. Knolles and Christopher Mont, 1562. f. 78.

14. Augustus, Duke-Elector of Saxony, (a) concerning religion; 2 July, &c.; 2 July, 16 Nov. 1559. ff. 12 b, 22;-(b) accrediting Capt. John Brigantin; 20 Feb. 1559[60]. f. 30;-(c) accrediting Christ. Mont; 10 Jan. 1560[1], 22 Feb. 1565[6]. ff. 37, 154 b;-(d) accrediting H. Knolles and C. Mont; 1562. f. 77 b;-(e) on the confiscation of goods of James Hawes, Will. Mericke, and other London merchants; 3 July, 1568. f. 228 b.

15. Philip, Landgrave of Hesse, (a) concerning religion; 2 July, 1559. f. 13;-(b) accrediting C. Mont; 10 Jan. 1560[1], 26 Mar. 1562, 22 Feb. 1565[6]. ff. 36 b, 67, 152 b;-(c) granting licence to Johann Godgasse to export 100 barrels of beer; 14 Jan. 1560[1]. f. 38;-(d) accrediting H. Knolles and C. Mont; 1562. f. 77;-

(e) thanking him for his zeal for the Protestant alliance; 26 Mar. 1563. Giles, ii, p. 86. f. 91.

16. The Hanse towns, (a) concerning their privileges [1559], 26 Mar. 1563. ff. 15, 95 b;-(b) concerning commercial relations; 31 Dec. 1559. f. 24 b;-(c) in answer to a complaint about their privileges; 7 July, 1561. f. 58 b;-(d) in commendation of their London representative, Peter Eiffler, on his recall; 28 May, 1566. f. 164;-(e) on behalf of Peter Schuibel, who has been reduced to poverty in their service; 1 May, 1567. f. 185 b.

17. Frederic, Count Palatine, Wolfgang, Duke of Deux Ponts, and Christopher, Duke of Würtemberg, concerning religion, &c.; 6 Oct. 1559. f. 18.

18. Gustavus I of Sweden, (a) refusing to marry his son Eric; 8 Nov. 1559. f. 20;-(b) commending his son Johgn, Duke of 19. Eric, Prince-Hereditary of Sweden, afterwards (1560) Eric XIV, (a) refusing to marry him; 8 Nov. 1559. f. 21;-(b) commending his brother John, Duke of Finland, ,&c.; 10 April, 1560. Giles, ii, p. 36. f. 32 b;-(c) on his accession; 1 Jan. 1560[1]. f. 34 b;-(d) on a false report that she contemplated marriage with him, &c.; 22 June, 1561. f. 50;-(e) rejecting proposals with regard to marriage; 14 Dec. 1562. f. 68 b;-(f) expressing surprise that he should recall his ambassador, Nich. Guldenstein, without informing her; 27 Mar. 1562. f. 70;-(g) on a complaint of injury done to his Chancellor by Francis Bertie, on questions of trade, &c.; 10 Feb. 1562[3]. f. 88;-(h) on a proposed visit to his sister Cecilia to England; 25 Feb. 1563[4]. f. 109 b;-(i) concerning money due to London merchants (cf. f. 120); 24 Sept. 1564. f. 122 b;-(k) on behalf of Tho. Alen [Allen], sent to buy shipbuilding material at Danzig; 5 May, 1565, 20 Mar. 1566[7]. ff. 128, 181;-(l) on the prospect of peace between Sweden and Denmark; 19 May, 1565. f. 129 b;-(m) in answer to his request for English aid against the Danes, and concerning his sister Cecilia; 25 Sept. 1565. f. 134;-(n) interceding for his brother John, Duke of Finland; 8 Oct. 1565. f. 135 b;-(o) on behalf of London merchants during his war with Denmark; 4 Dec. 1565, 16 Mar. 1565[6]. ff. 141 b, 159;-(p) on behalf of John Dymmock, ruined and imprisoned for a debt contracted on his account; 9 Dec. 1565. f. 142 b;-

(q) licensing the export of woollen goods to Sweden for his use; 28 Dec. 1565. f. 145;-(r) concerning a loan for his use made by certain London merchants to Nic. Goldinster (sic), his ambassador; 14 Mar. 1565[6]. Giles, ii, p. 109. f. 156 b;-(s) on the siezure of a ship of John Porter; 20 Jan. 1566[7]. f. 174;-(t) on behalf of the Company of London Merchants; 20 Feb. 1566[7]. f. 176 b;-

(u) on the seizure of three English ships; 8, 13 Oct. 1567. ff. 195, 196;-(w) on behalf of John Porter, merchant, of Lynn, asking restoration of his goods, &c.; 7 Feb. 1567[8]. f. 204;-(x) on the detention of goods saved from an English wreck; 26 Feb. 1567[8]. f. 208.

20. Frederic, Count Palatine, (a) accrediting C. Mont; 20 Dec 1559, 10 Jan. 1560[1], 26 Mar. 1562, 22 Feb. 1565[6]. ff. 23b, 36, 66 b, 153;-(b) accrediting H. Knolles and C. Mont; 1562. f. 78 b;-

(c) thanking him for his zeal for the Protestant alliance; 26 Mar. 1563. Giles, ii, p. 83. f. 94;-(d) on the religious wars in France and his request to her to intercede with the King of Spain for Counts Egmont and Horn; 23 Apr. 1568. f. 218.

21. Christopher, Duke of Würtemberg, (a) accrediting C. Mont; 20 Dec. 1559, 10 Jan. 1560[1], 26 Mar. 1562, 22 Feb. 1565[6]. ff. 24, 36 b, 67 b, 153 b;-(b) accrediting H. Knolles and C. Mont,. 1562. f. 78;-(c) thanking him for his zeal for the Protestant alliance; 26 Mar. 1563. f. 92.

22. Charles, Archduke of Austria, (a) on her disinclination for marriage; 11 Jan. 1559 [60]. Giles, ii, p. 9. f. 25 b;-(b) acknowledging his letters delivered by Adam Schweckowitz, Baron Mitterburg; 5 Aug. 1565. f. 133b.

23. Frederic II of Denmark, (a) accrediting John Spithove; 16 Jan. [1560]. f. 27;-(b) in reply to his commendation of Herbrad a Langen; 6 Feb. 1559[60]. Giles, ii, p. 1. f. 29 b.-(c) in reply to his complaint about taxes and harbour dues; 20 Jan. 1560[1]. f. 39;-(d) on behalf of Tho. Alan [Allen], sent to purchase shipbuilding material, and asking for the establishment of a fixed scale of harbour dues; 30 Mar. 1561. Giles, ii, p. 39. f. 46;-(e) on a complaint by Cuthbert Vachan [Vaughan] of injury done to him in Norway; 12 July, 1561. f. 60;-(f) on (i) complaints by Simon Sorbecke, merchant, of Wespend, of injuries from Englishmen, and (ii) an attack made by certain Scots upon Englishmen in the harbour of Wespend (Giles, ii, p. 49); 5, 8 Oct. 1561. ff. 62 b, 64 b; (g) in favour of Tho. Alen, sent to purchase materials for her fleet; 27 Mar. 1562, 5 May, 1565, 3 May, 1566, 20 Mar. 1566[7], 2 Mar. 1567[8]. ff. 71, 127 b, 162 b, 180 b, 211 b;-(h) on the confiscation of a ship belonging to Tho. Claybourne and others, of Lynn; 5 Apr. 1562. f. 74 b;-(i) on his complaint of the audacity of a young Englishman, Geoffrey Prieston (cf. f. 122), and on the seizure of a ship in Norway by Hen. Bullinghausen; 9 Nov. 1563. f. 99;-

(k) on the seizure of a ship belonging. to Will. Peterson and other London merchants; 15 Dec. 1[563] f. 103;-(l) on the seizure at Elshorg of a ship belonging to Bertram Anderson and others, merchants, of Newcastle; 20 Feb. 1563[4]. f. 108 b;-(m) asking free passage for Cecilia, the King of Sweden's sister; 25 Feb. 1563[4]. f. 110 b;-(n) on behalf of English merchants during his war with Sweden; 25 Apr. 1564, 4 Dec. 1565, 16 Mar. 1565[6]. ff. 117, 141, 158;-(o) on the detention at Copenhagen of Tho. Valentine, sent on a mission to Sweden to recover money due to Will. Hewet, Lionei Ducket and others; 24 Sept. 1564. Giles, ii, p. 91. f. 120;-(p) on behalf of Geoffrey Preston, who had been arrested on his return from Sweden (cf. f. 99); 8 Nov. 1564. f. 122;-

(q) on the case of Tho. Valentine (cf f. 120); 3 Apr. 1565. f. 126;-

(r) complaining of excessive duties on cloth goods; 7 May, 1565. f. 128b;-(s) on the case of Henry Bullinghausen, &c. (cf. f. 99); 26 Dec. 1565. f. 143 b;-(t) asking free passage for woollen goods to Lübeck, Danzig, &c. ; 1 Jan. 1565[6]. f. 145 b;-(u) refusing to allow his agent James Cullan, a Scot, to hire sailors in England, and on the removal of maritime restrictions; 15 Jan. 1565[6]. f. 147;-(w) asking free pasnge for. John Keill on his way to Sweden to recover a debt; 14 Mar. 1565[6]. Giles, ii, p. III. f. 157;-

(x) on wrongs to English subjects, &c.; 22 Apr. 1566 (Giles, ii, p. 138), 18 Dec 1566. ff. 162, 171 b;-(y) on the seizure of a ship, and the imprisonment of Rich. Denys and Rich. Jordane, factors ; 28 Nov. [1566 ?], 7 Dec. 1566. ff. 167b, 170 b;-(z) on behalf of John Porter, who had signed a bond forfeiting vessel and cargo if he went to Sweden; 20 Jan. 1566[7]. f. 174 b;-(aa) on behalf of the Company of London Merchants; 20 Feb. 1566[7]. f. 176;-

(bb) answering his charges against Will. Winter, and complaining of outrages on English subjects; 4 May, 1567. f. 184;-(cc) on behalf of Tho. Allen, who sends a ship to Danzig; 13 May, 1567. f. 189 b;-(dd) acknowledging the release of Rodolph Clayton, and asking compensation for his ship; 1 June, 1567. Giles, ii, p. 146. f. 190 b;-(ee) asking free passage for a ship sent by the Company of Merchants; 10 Feb. 1567[8]. f. 207 b;-(ff,) on the detention of goods saved from an English wreck; 26 Feb. 1567[8]. f. 209;-

(gg) on behalf of James Spenser, desiring to trade; 4 March, 1567[8]. f. 211;-(hh) requesting that James, Earl of Bothwell, be surrendered to answer for the murder of Hen. Darnley; 29 Mar. 1568. f. 217;- (ii) on his complaint about the preparation of a fleet against him, with her consent; 14 May, 1568. f. 221.

24. Dorothea, Queen of Denmark, widow of Christian III, accrediting John Spithove; 16 Jan. 1559[60]. f. 27.

25. Margaret, Duchess of Parma, Regent of the Netherlands, (a) concerning the attachment by two Netherland merchants of a debt due to Elizabeth for corn supplied to Adolph of Burgundy; 26 Jan. 1559[60], Giles, ii, p. 10. f. 27 b;-(b) on behalf of Edward Southnorthe in his protracted suit against the heirs of Arnold van Dale; 30 Jan. 1565[6]. f. 148.

26. Otto, Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg [-Harburg], (a) sending articles of a treaty; 4 Feb. f. [1560]. Followed (f. 28 b) by the treaty, dat. 1 Feb. 1559[60]. f. 28;-(b) accrediting Capt. John Brigantin; 20 Feb. 1559[60]. f. 30 b;-(c) in favour of Will. Herle, sent to fetch material of war from Hamburg; 29 June, 1561. f. 55 b;-(d) in favour of Geo. Nedam, sent to purchase arms and powder in Germany; 18 Jan. 1563[4]. f. 105.

27. John [Count von Hoya], Bishop of Osnaburg, accrediting Capt. John Brigantin; 20 Feb. 1559[60]. f. 30 b.

28. Albert, Count von Hoya, to the same effect; 20 Feb. 1559[60]. f. 30 b.

29. Antony I, Count in Oldenburg and Delmenhorst, (a) to the same effect; 20 Feb. 1559[60], f. 31;-(b) in favour of Will. Herle.

24 Mar. 1562[3]. f. 90 b.

30. Cosmo I, Duke of Florence, (a) pressing for payment of money due to her; 28 Feb. 1559[60], 9 July, 1559 (Giles, ii, pp. 12, 16), 1 Jan. 1560[1], 22 Nov. 1563. ff. 31 b, 32, 35 b, 101 b;-(b) recommending Edward [Seymour], Earl of Hertford; 14 July, 1561. Giles, ii, p. 45. f. 60 b;-(c) in favour of Guido Cavalcanti, and concerning the duke's debt to her; 27 May, 1564. f. 118 b;-(d) on behalf of Alessandro and Julio Agostini, who seek recovery of property of their father Agostino Agostini, late physician to Henry VIII ; 7 May, 1565. f. 129;-(e) thanking him for expediting the case of the Agostini, and accusing their agent of fraud; 20 July, 1567. f. 193.

31. The Senate, &c., of Revel, concerning an action for debt by Newcastle merchants against citizens of Revel; 6 Dec. 1560. f. 34, 32. Wolfgang, Count Palatine, Duke of Deux Ponts, (a) accrediting C. Mont, 10 Jan. 1560[1], 22 Feb. 1565[6]. ff. 36, 155;-(b) accrediting H. Knolles and C. Mont, 1562. f. 79.

33. Margrave of Baden, (a) accrediting C. Mont; 10 Jan. 1560[1]. f. 37 b;-(b) accrediting H.Knotles and C. Mont; 1562. f. 79b.

34. The City of Danzig, (a) on behalf of Will. Dickenson and two others (see f. 39 b), and as to the authenticity of two documents bearing their seal; 8 Feb. 1560[1]. ff. 40 b, 41;-(b) on behalf of Will. Martin, seeking to recover a debt from citizens of Danzig; 1562. Giles, ii, p. 82. f. 73;-(c) on the case of Will. Martin; 25 Apr. 1564. f. 116 b;-(d) requiring the release of Giles Graye and the restitution of his ship, &c.; 8 Dec. 1566. f. 166 b;-(e) on the seizure of a ship belonging to Robert Nayler merchant, of Hull; 6 Dec. 1566. Giles, ii, p. 79. f. 170;-(f) complaining of mercantile frauds; 20 Mar. 1566[7]. Giles, ii, p. 68. f. 180;-(g) complaining of injuries to Tho. Bowes and other London merchants; 18 Apr. 1567. f. 182 ;-(h) on the inconsistency of their words and their actions; 1 Nov. 1567. Giles, ii, p. 163. f. 202;-(i) on behalf of Tho. Alan, commissioned to procure material for the fleet; 2 Mar. 1567[8]. f. 212, b;-(k) on behalf of James Spenser, commissioned to make purchases for her use; 20 May, 1568. f. 222 b;-(l) on the seizure of English ships; 3 July, 1568. f. 231 b;-(m) cancelling a decree in the interests of Will. Martin for the attachment of ships, &c., of Danzig ; 3 Oct. 1568. f. 251 b.

35. The City of Lübeck, (a) in reply to their letter about a vessel sunk by John Asshe and others, English subjects; 8 Mar. 1560[1]. Giles, ii, p. 30. f. 41 b -(b) complaining of injuries to Will. Peter. son and other London merchants; 1 May, 1567. f. 189.

36. Catharine, widow of [John Ernest] Duke of Saxony [-Coburg], in reply to her letter about a vessel sunk by John Asshe and others, English subjects; 8 Mar. 1560[1]. Giles, ii p. 33. f.43.

37. Henry, Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg [-Danneberg], (a) on the detention of certain fire-arms ('tormenta longiuscula quae Curreyers nominantur') purchased for her in Germany; 12 Mar. 1560[1]. f. 44;-(b) in favour of Will. Herle, sent to fetch material of war from Hamburg; 29 June, 1561. f. 55 b.

38. Jeronimo Priuli, Doge of Venice, (a) on behalf of Guido Janetto, late servant to Henry VIII and Edward VI, imprisoned at the instance of the Pope's ambassador; 18 Mar. 1560[1]. f. 45;-

(b) in favour of Guido da Casonc, who desires leave to return from exile; 17 Apr. 1565. f. 126 b.

39. Ivan IV, Czar of Muscovy, (a) asking for a safe-conduct, &c., for Anthony Jenkinson; 25 Mar. 1561. f. 47;-(b) asking free passage, &c., for Raphael Barbarino, an Italian; 24 June, 1564. f. 119 b;-(c) accrediting Anthony Jenkinson, who is to communicate with him on various matters; 20 Apr. 1566. f. 160 b;-(d) about sending English artificers to Russia,and concerning malicious criticisms of the Company of Merchants by English subjects; 18 May, 1567. f. 189 b;-(e) on behalf of Laurence Manley and Nich. Procter, agents of the Muscovy Company; 14 Oct. 1567. f. 196 b;-(o) thanking him for his letters by Ant. Jenkinson, and sending Geo. Midleton to treat about the apprehension of Tho. Glover and other Englishmen, who have married Polish women; 10 Feb. 1567[8]. f. 206;-(g) on his friendly reception of English merchants, &c. ; 9 May, 1568. f. 220 b -(h) accrediting Thomas Randolph as her ambassador; 12 June, 1568. f. 225 b,-(i) on behalf of Tho. Bannister and Geoffrey Ducket, appointed to represent the Company of Merchants; [June, 1568]. f. 226 b;-(k) recapitulating her several missions to him, accrediting Tho. Randolph, her ambassador, and Tho. Bannister and Geoffrey Ducket, agents of the Company of Merchants, accusing certain Englishmen in Russia of fraud, slander, &c., and recounting the history of the Company and the encroachments on its privileges; 16 Sept. 1568. Followed (f. 241) by the same in English. f. 235 b.

40. [Thamasp I] Sophi of Persia, asking for a safe-conduct, &c., for Anthony Jenkinson ; 25 Apr. 1561. Giles, ii, p. 41. f. 49.

41. The Senate, &c., of Hamburg, (a) in favour of Will. Herle, sent to fetch material of war from Hamburg; 29 June, 1561. f. 55 -(b) in favour of Will. Herle, on business in Germany; 24 Mar. 1562[3]. f. 91;-(c) on matters of commerce; 30 Apr. 1564. f. 117;-(d) on behalf of Francis Robinson and Francis Benison, agents of the Company of Merchants, &c.; 8 Mar. 1566[7]. f. 177 b.

42. Francis I, Duke of Saxe-Lauenburg, in favour of Will. Herle (cf. 41 a); 29 June, 1561. f. 56.

43. All kings, princes, &c., denying that she was sending arms to the Czar; 29 June, 1561 . f. 56 b.

44. The chiefs, &c., of the Augsburg Confession, accrediting H. Knolles and C. Mont; 1562. The address crossed out. f. 76 b.

45. Isard, Count in Oldenburg and Delnienhorst, in favour of Will. Herle; 24 Mar. 1562 [3]. f. 90 b.

46. Ulric, Count Mansfeld, in answer to his recommendation of a person unnamed, experienced in war; 24 Jan. 1563[4]. f. 105.

47. Cecilia, sister of Eric XIV of Sweden, conceming her proposed visit, and the death of [Johann Baptist von Tenczin] Palatine of Bleisck; 25 Feb. 563[4]. Giles, ii,. p. 75. f. 111.

48. John, Count Thenczin [Tenczin]. concerning the death of the Palatine of Bielsck, and her [Elizabeth's] letter to Cecilia; 25 Feb. 1563[4]. Giles, ii. p. 77. f. 112 b.

49. George John, Count Palatine [Veldentz], and Anne, his wife, on the visit of Cecilia of Sweden [sister of the Countess] and her husband to England; 1 Feb. 1565[6]. ff. 149, 149 b.

50. Joachim II, Margrave of Brandenburg, accrediting C. Mont; 22 Feb. 1565[6]. f. 156.

51. Gerhard [van Groesbeck] Prince Bishop of Liège, on behalf of Walter Diepenraex, an English subject, imprisoned on religious grounds; 28 Mar. 1566. f. 161 b.

52. -, merchant (?), giving reasons for refusing a licence to export unwrought cloth; 15 Dec. 1566. f. 171.

53. The Senate, &c., of Stralsund, on a wrong done by Martin Swart to Geo. Norwood, agent of John Gilbert, merchant, of Sandwich; 12 May, 1567. Giles, ii, p. 140. f. 188 b.

54. Barnim XI, Duke of Stettin, on the same subject; 12 May, 1567. Giles, ii, p. 142. f. 189.

55. William IV, Landgrave of Hesse-Cassel, concerning a complaint of Adolph Zenck against Edmund Roberts; 10 Mar. 1567[8]. f. 216.

56. Edzard II, Count of East Friesland, in answer to his request for assistance in the event of trouble with Spain; 11 July, 1568. f. 232.

57. William, Duke of Cleves, on behalf of Walter Bailei, M.D., Professer at Oxford, who comes to secure his wife's inheritance; 14 July, 1568. f. 234 b.

58. The magistrates of Narva, Russia, asking them to expedite her letter to the Csar; 16 Sept. 1568. f. 249.

59. Fernando de Castro, Marquis of Sarria, thanking him for a present of scented gloves, &c.; 8 Oct. f. 255. II. Letters patent, commissions, safe-conducts, &c., viz.:

1. Safe-conduct for Sir T. Chaloner on his mission to the Emperor; 26 Nov. 1558. f. 1 b.

2. Letters commendatory for Christopher Mont, LL.D.; 14 Dec. 1558. f. 2 b.

3. Licence to John Spithove to receive during absence abroad the revenues of his prebend of Gillingham Major; 1561. f. 54.

4. Licence to Adrian Panelsenius, of Hamburg, to import yewwood for bows ; 4 Nov. 1564. f. 121.

5. Grant to Christopher, Margrave of Baden-Rodemachern, of a yearly pension so long as he allows his wife, Cecilia of Sweden, to remain in England; 22 Nov. 1565. f. 139 b.

6. Safe-conduct for Will. Gorge, about to fight against the Turks; 10 Feb. 1565[6]. Giles, ii, p. 106. f. 150.

7. Safe-conduct for F. Robinson and F. Benison, agents of the Company of Merchants in Eastern Germany; 8 Mar. 1566[7]. f. 179b.

8. Safe-conduct for Antonio de' Conti and Lucretia his wife, desiring to return to Italy ; 29 Sept. 1567. f. 194.

9. Safe-conduct for Laurence Manley and two others, travelling to the East; 28 Oct. 1567. f. 197.

10. Commission to Tho. Randall [Randolph], as ambassador to Russia; [June, 1568]. f. 227.

11. Commission to Tho. Bannester, Geoffrey Ducket, and Arthur Edwardes, of the Company of Merchants, as special envoys to Persia; [June, 1568]. f. 228.

III. Letters, &c., composed by Ascham (exc. no. 1) and addressed by:

1. Joannes Sturmius, letters commendatory for Christ. Threclus and his pupil Stanislaus Coniespolius ; Strassburg, 25 Apr. 1559. Probably only copied by Ascham as a model. f. 6 b.

2. Edward, Lord Clinton, Lord High Admiral, (a) to Eric XIV of Sweden, promising to move the Queen to permit pilots to be sent to him for his projected visit; 17 Jan. 1560[1]. f. 38b;-(b) to Frederic II of Denmark, on the imprisonment at Copenhagen of his servant Rodolph Clayton, &c.; 12, Nov. 1566. f. 165;-(c) to Albert Knopper, LL.D., of Denmark, on the same subject; 12 Nov. 1566. f. 166;-(d) to Everd Bilde, Lord Admiral of Denmark, thanking him for his services to R. Clayton, &c.; 5 June, 1567. Giles, ii, p. 147. f. 191 b;-(e) to Peter Oxe, Privy Councillor to the King of Denmark, on behalf of R. Clayton; 6 Feb. 1567[8]. f. 205.

3. Sir William Cecil (a) to Jacopo Ragazzoni, noble of Venice, on behalf of Guido Janetti (cf. f. 45); 18 Mar. [1561] Giles, ii, p. 34. f. 45 b;-(b) to Maurice Ranczow, knight, and Paul Brocktorp, postponing payment of a debt due to them by the Queen; 27 Jan. 1562[3]. f. 87 b;-(c) to Albert Knopper, LL.D., Councillor to the King of Denmark, (i) on behalf of Will. Rowle and Rob. Bestc, sailing with a cargo of cloth to Russia, and (ii) recommending the case of Cuthbert Vachan [Vaughan]; 21 Apr. 1565, 22. May, 1566. In margin 'for Sr. Th. Goldinge'. ff. 127, 163;-

(d) to the Burgomaster and Echevins of Dunkirk, concerning the success of their petition; 9 Nov. 1565. f. 138 -(e) to Gonsalvo Perez, Chief Secretary to the King of Spain, recommending the bearer [John Man], the new ambassador to Spain ; 20 Feb. 1565[6]. Giles, ii, p. 108. f. 159 b.

4. The Governor and Company of Merchants of London to (a) Anne, Countess of E. Friesland, (i) concerning a loan, and (ii) in favour of Geo. Nedam and Geo. Roo sent by the Company to treat on questions of commerce; 13 Nov. 1562, 18 Jan. 1563[4]. ff. 83 b, 103 b;-(b) to the Senate, &c., of Hamburg, (i) sending their agents Francis Robinson and Francis Benison, and (ii) on their commercial relations ; 9 Mar. 1566[7] ff. 178, 178 b. The letters on ff. 103 b, 178 b are in the name of John Marsh, Governor.

5. Lord Hunsdon to Albert, Duke of Prussia, acknowledging a gift of falcons; 16 Jan. 1562[3]. f. 87.

6. Lords of the Council to Jeronimo Priuli, Dogeof Venice, on an affront to the Eari of Arundel by Daniel Foscarino at Padua; 3 Nov. 1566. f. 168.

7. Geo. White to the Count of Feria, asking (as nephew of [Susan] Clarenceux or Clarentius, late a member of his household) tor assistance against Geo. Kempe; n.d. Giles, ii, p. 112. f. 175.

8. [Thomas Howard,] Duke of Norfolk, to Evert Bell (cf. f. 191 b), Lord Admiral of Denmark, on behalf of John Hawkins, whose ship had been seized; n.d. f. 192.

9. Catharine, widow of Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, to Albert, Duke of Prussia, on behalf of James Spenser; 6 Mar. 1567 [8]. f. 213.

10. William Pelham to the same, on behalf of [James Spenser] his brother-in-law; 6 Mar. 1567[8]. f. 214. Included also are:-(a) Two versions in English of the beginning of a letter from the Czar to Elizabeth; Sept. 1567. f. 10;-(b) Part of a letter from Frederic II of Denmark to Elizabeth, on complaints of English merchants; 18 Oct. 1566. f. 256 f-(c) A quotation, 'Tush, Blinde fortune dotes on him that cannot blush'. f. 257 b.

IV. The rest of the volume, comprising copies of documents, many of which are connected with admiralty and trade matters, had originally nothing to do with what precedes. Contents.

1. Notification by john [Salcot]. Bishop of Salisbury, of a covenant between Edward Burbeche, perpetual vicar of 'Donyngton' [Dinton, co. Wilts.], and John Bygges, rector of the same, augrnenting the vicarage and making stipulations as to tithes, &c., and the ministrations of the chapel of 'Teffont' [Teffont Magna, co. Wilts.]; 28 Aug. 1540. f. 259.

2. Sentence by Hugh Weston [Dean of Westminster], Prolocutor of Convocation, and other commissioners appointed to examine Archbishop Cranmer and Bishops Ridley and Latimer at Oxford as to their heresy in regard to the Real Presence, &c.; [April, 1554]. Cf. Strype, Memorials of Cranmer, i, p. 479. In the margin is a note by Sir Robert Cotton, 'To be transcribed'.

3. Notification by the magistrates of Antwerp that Joyce, son of Peter Kennoy, merchant, at Flushing, has designated Marcel Pynnappell, his agent in London, as his attorney for recovering debts, &c.; 19 March, 1551 [? 1552]. f. 263 b.

4. Release by Joyce Mayne, 'Capitaneus Teutonicus', and Lemen Gisbris, captain of 'The Flye' of Middeborough [Middelburg], to Andrew Lespe, Spanish merchant, of the ship 'Angell' of Havre, lately captured; 29 May, 1555. With bond to observe covenants, 30 May. ff. 264, 264 b.

5. Certificate by the magistrates of Brussels, at the request of Gertrude van den Campe, widow of Paul van Vrylant, of a covenant by which the survivor was to enjoy the use of the other's goods, rents, &c., subject to the jurisdiciion of the town ; 25 Sept. 1554. f. 265 b.

6. Inspeximus by Edward VI of previous royal confirmations of letters patent of Richard II in I 394,-confirming to Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, and Sark exemption from harbour dues, with other ancient privileges, in retum for their services in defending Mont Orgueil Castle, &c.; 6 Mar. a^o 2 [1548]. f. 266.

7. Inspeximus by Queen Mary of inspeximus by Hen. VIII in 1510 of inspeximus by Hen. VII in 1486 of a bull of Sixtus IV, 1 Mar. 1483 (anno 10, sic), pronouncing the censure of the Church on piratical persons who plundered the Channel Islands, &c.; 19 Dec. a^o 1 [1553]. f. 270.

8. Order from Queen Mary to Sir Leonard Chamberlain,' Captain' of Guernsey, at the suit of Will. Wynter, Master of the Ordnance upon the Seas and Surveyor of the Admiralty, to investigate the said Wynter's claim to a cargo of French wines captured off Sark; 22 July, 1557. f. 280.

9. Notification by the Council to the same that they have given orders for the punishment of certain 'men of warr' in Guernsey reported by him as interfering with the privileges of the merchants; 8 March, 1557[8]. Cf. Acts of the Privy Council 1556-1558, p. 280. f. 281.

10. Original receipt by John Chamberlain, on behalf of the inhabitants of the Islands, to the Admiralty for the originals of the above; 17 July, 1559. f. 281 b.

11. Accompts, &c., of Roger Huntte, a notary of London and registrar of the Court of Admiralty, viz.:-(i) Accompt and partial acquittance for a process in the court between Will. Wodhows and Will. Carre, of Newcastle; 27 Dec. 1545. f. 282;-(b) General release by Huntte to John Cok, sen., and John Cok, jun., sailors, of Leigh, co. Essex; 1 July, 1546. f. 282 b;-(c) Sale by the same to the same of a third share in the ship 'Anthony' of London, with acquittance; 2 July, 1546. f. 283;-(d) Accompt of three hundred of 'waynescotts' bought [by Huntte ?] of Peter Skymhyll, merchant of the steelyard, and partly sold to Adam Hubert, joiner, of Holborn Bridge; 5 Nov., 9 Dec. 1544. f. 284 b.

12. Passport from the senate of Ludosia [Nylödese] in Sweden for Olavus Nicolai, merchant, sailing to Holland and France 1 Aug. 1562,. f. 287.

Artt. 13-37, relating to Admiralty court business, are copied continuously, beginning on the same sheet as art. 12,.

13. Notarial copy, 28 Aug. 1560, of letters of reprisal against the Portuguese granted by James IV of Scotland to Andrew Berton and his brothers Robert and John; 20 Nov. 1206. f. 287.

14. Extracts on the civil law concerning theft, from Paul de Castro, &c. f. 288 b.

15. Letters of the magistrates of Antwerp to all mayors, &c., for examination of witnesses for Vincent Punguet in his suit v. François Thiery; 1 Dec. 1548. f. 289.

16. Passport from the magistrates of Hamburg for Johannes Wermerman, master of a ship called 'ein kreyer de Raue'; 30 Mar. 1552. f. 289 b.

17. Certificates by the same (a) that a ship or 'kreyer', whose master Johannes Boiemick was drowned off the English coast, belonged to Joh. Weruelman [? al. Wermerman] and Tho. Camerman; 16 May, 1552. f. 289 b;-(b) that the said Thomas has empowered the said Joh. Weruelman to sell the ship; same date. f. 290.

18. Certificate by the magistrates of Brussels of appointment of Johannes de Leewe as notary; 5 April, 1564[5]. f. 290 b.

19. Passport from the magistrates of Hamburg for Hans Bonnicke [? al. Boiemick], master and part-owner of a ship; Fri. after Misericordiae [17 Apr.], 1551. f. 290 b.

20. Commission by Henry VIII to Sir Robert Southwell, Master of the Rolls, John Tregunwell, esq., Master in Chancery, John Oliver and Anthony Bellasis, clerks, Masters in Chancery, to hear causes in the absence of Sir Thomas Wriothesley, Lord Wriothesley, Chancellor; 17 Oct. 1544. Noted in the margin by Sir Robert Cotton, 'To be transcribed'. f. 291.

21. Certificate by the magistrates of Wismar in Mecklenburg- Schwerin of proxy given by Henricus Duriar, Joachimus vom Zehe, senators, and six others, owners of goods in a ship (Johannes Wischendorff, master) trading in Scotland, to Nicolaus Eggebrecht to recover goods seized in England by 'magister Brun Withbnensis'; Mond. aft. S. John Bapt. [27 June], 1547. f. 292.

22. Conveyance by Giles Heron, esq., to Sir John Thymylbye, John Rowe, jun., son of John Rowe, Serjeant at law, and Hen. Marmion, gent.,of the next presentation to S. Paul's Cray parsonage, co. Kent, for the use of Edward Marmion, rector of S. Botolph's next Billingsgate, London; 13 May, 1528. f. 293.

23. Indentures of apprenticeship of M. L. to N. B. de W. in co. S., mariner, for 4 years, for his board and clothing and at the end of his term 20s., a bed, a 'dagyswayne' [coverlet], and holiday and working dress; 27 Nov., s.a. f. 293 b.

24. Certificate by Richard Reede, D.C.L., that W. Jeffery of B. in Essex, mariner, enrolled as his apprentice one Richard 'a Shaste', an Irish orphan from 'Lowsybaye', at an Admiralty Court held at B.

22 April, 1541. f. 294.

25. Certificate by Adrianus Shertogen, notary public of Antwerp, that Andreas Brondolo and Nicolaus de Franciscqui, Venetian merchants in Antwerp, appointed in Aug. 1554 arbitrators between Hieronimus Frisier and Thomas Canata, have settled their dispute about diamonds, &c.; 18 April, 1555. f. 294.

26. Duplicate of art. 16. f. 294 b.

27. Notarial attestation that Petrus Femandez, a Portuguese of Antwerp, has named Jacobus Roderici, of Arnemuiden in Zeeland, his attorney in the matter of a cargo of sugar and cotton on the ship, 'St.Christopher' bound from Lisbon to Arnemuiden; 12 April, 1549. f. 295.

28. Letter from the Emperor Charles V to Edward VI, on behalf of Hermann Hulsemann, of Lübeck, and his partner Henry Buencken, of London, who had received no payment for marten and lynx skins which they had sold to John [Dudley], Earl of Warwick; 11 Feb. 1549 [1550]. f. 296 b.

29. Duplicate of art. 5. f. 297.

30. Decree of the magistrates of Antwerp in a suit before the Amptmann between Johannes Bicherius, an Englishman, and Johannes Wyreus for a debt; 20 Mar. 1563[4]. f. 297.

31. Certificate by the magistrates of Middelburg in Zeeland of the ownership of the ship 'Pellican' (Jacobus Martini, master and part-owner) sailing from Arnemuiden to an English port and captured and abandoned by French ships of war off Lowestoft; 21 Mar. 1543[4]. f. 297 b.

32. Certificate by an Antwerp notary of the entry in the books of the imperial customs, 3 Nov. 1502 (sic, for 1552), of cupboards, linen, mercery, and tin shipped by johannes Stangers, of Calais, for Richardus Jansson; 10 May, 1553. f. 298.

33. Award by Bernardus Bosch and Godfridus Heylichsom, arbitrators between Bernardus Tenback, merchant, and his servant Petrus Bursken; n.d. f. 299.

34. Draft of licence from Edward Fynes [al. Fiennes de Clinton], Lord Clinton and Saye, K.G. [afterwards Earl of Lincoln], Lord High Adrniral, to Sir Hugh Willoughby, commanding three ships of the Company of Merchant Adventurers on a voyage of discovery [the Bona Esperanza expedition, in search of the N.E. passage], to 'take vpp, preste and prouide' shipmasters, mariners, shipwrights, gunners, &c., and to exercise discipline, &c.; - May, 1553. With a note from [the Lord Admiral to an officer of the court ?] concern ing restrictions necessary to be inserted in the commission before it can begranted; 17 May, 1553. f. 300.

35. Certificate of identity granted by the Senate of Cologne to John Diggons, of Chichester, co. Suss., a traveller in cloth; 6 July, 1566. f. 301 b.

36. Certificate by the magistrates of Danzig of the sale by Caspar Schachtman, scabinus, Henry Schulte and John Leuit, of a ship to John Boruel and Rob. Hilsen, Englishmen; 13 April, 1568. f. 302.

37. Certificate by the magistrates of Flushing of payment by John Bolinge, of Yarmouth, to Galen Christophori, sailor, of the price of a ship sold to him by the latter; 7 Oct. 1577. f. 302 b. On f. 258 b are notes of the capture of sturgeon in the Thames off Woolwich in a salmon-net.

Paper; ff. 303. Folio. Not in cat. of 1666; CMA.. 8679.