No biog-hist was added to this collection during revision in 2010 as it was not necessary although it could be useful to add in the future -- aeb Nov 22, 2010
The Papers of the Cavendish-Talbot family were acquired in May 1961 from the booksellers Lionel and Philip Robinson.
The Papers of the Cavendish-Talbot family form part of the Phillipps' collection, nos. 20556-20558.
Many of the papers are included in Joseph Hunter's
Talbot Papers (MS 3192-3206) and Shrewsbury Papers (MS 694-710) at the
Account book of Elizabeth, Countess of Shrewsbury, kept by her steward Edward Whalley, 1589 September 9-1592 July 12.
Account book of Sir William and Lady Cavendish of Chatsworth, 1548 Michaelmas-1550.
E. Williams watermark collection, see Folger MS L.f.358 (Her answer to the bill of complaint of her son, Gilbert Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, January 30, 1605/6.)
Lease for lives from George Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, to Lawrence Stile and his wife, 1575 January 11.
Autograph letter signed from Gilbert Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, Sheffield Castle, to Sir Humphrey Ferrers 1594 June 3.
Autograph letter signed from Gilbert Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, to George Abell, ca. 1600 March 15.
Autograph letter signed from Gilbert and Mary Talbot, Goodrich Castle, Herefordshire, to George Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, 1575/6 January 12.
Leake, Thomas, d. 1598. Register of deer, hinds and stags, killed in Sherwood Forest, 1591-1598.
Letters signed from Gilbert Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, to Sir Richard Verney and Sir Humphrey Ferrers [manuscript], 1602-1605.
Letters signed from the Privy Council, 1596-1793 (bulk 1596-1634).
Copy of proclamation of Court of Claims to persons claiming the right to perform any service at the coronation of James I, King of England, July 13, 1603, 17th century.
Processed by Folger Shakespeare Library staff.
[Item title and date], Papers of the Cavendish-Talbot family, Folger MS X.d.428 [item number], Folger Shakespeare Library, Washington, DC.
Also available on microfilm, Film Fo 3721 (reduction ratio 14:1, 33 feet).
Also available as digital images in LUNA
Some letters are transcribed in Joseph Hunter's
Transcriptions of X.d.428 (64) and X.d.428 (73) appear on pages 318 and 322 of Hunter's
The Papers of the Cavendish-Talbot family contain 175 autograph letters signed, as well as various financial documents, warrants, petitions, orders, physician instructions and other miscellaneous documents relating to the Cavendish, Talbot, Wentworth, and Slingsby families as well as to Sir Humphrey Style, and Stanley Gower.
Divided into six series: Cavendish and Talbot family papers, 1548-1607; Wentworth family papers, [1542?], 1624-1705; Slingsby family of Scryven papers, 1586-1634; Sir Humphrey Style letter, ca. 1629; Stanley Gower papers, 1636-1658; and miscellaneous documents, 1500-1548.
Most of the papers are autograph letters; several are written by an amanuensis and signed by the writer. Well-known place-names and personal names are modernized. Dates when not given are supplied, often tentatively, with a few given as undated. If a wax seal on a letter is whole and undamaged, this is noted. Additional manuscripts relating to the Countess of Shrewsbury appear in the Related Materials section of this finding aid.
Series 1: The Cavendish and Talbot family papers contain letters and miscellaneous documents. The majority of the letters are addressed to Elizabeth Hardwick Talbot, Countess of Shrewsbury, either as Lady Cavendish, Lady St. Loe, or as Countess of Shrewsbury, and are from her family and friends. Many mention Lady Arbella Stuart, the Countess of Shrewsbury's grand-daughter. Some are instructions to her steward and men of affairs and mention matters concerning the running of the estates and the building of Chatsworth. Others, particularly those from her stepson Gilbert Talbot, her daughter Mary, and her sons Charles and William, give her a survey of the news of the day, and events at court. The Wingfields answer at some length enquiries as to suitable New Year's gifts for the queen. Though Mary, Queen of Scots, was in the keeping of her husband, the Earl of Shrewsbury, during much of the time covered by the letters, there are few references to her, although two well-known letters in which the Earl tells of the possibility and then the certainty of Mary, Queen of Scots, being put in his charge are in this collection. A few refer to the differences which arose between the Earl and Countess. There are several household accounts, and an inventory of the goods of Francis Talbot, deceased. Twenty-three of the letters are written by women, including the Countesses of Kent, Lennox, Northumberland and Shrewsbury (both Elizabeth and her daughter Mary); Grace Cavendish; Lady Frances Cobham; Elizabeth (Leake) Leche; Lady Frances Pierrepont; Lady Margaret St. Loe; Lady Dorothy Stafford; Anne Talbot; and Elizabeth Wingfield.
Series 2: The Wentworth family papers contain letters and miscellaneous documents. There were many Wentworths in Yorkshire, including the Wentworths of Elmsall and Broadsworth, the Wentworths of West Bretton, the Wentworths of South Elmsall, and the Wentworths of Woolley. Most of these letters are to and from the Wentworths of West Bretton and Woolley. There are two from William Wentworth, later 2nd earl of Strafford, and some accounts on matters affecting his estates. Two orders are signed by Sir Thomas Wentworth, later Earl of Strafford; one by John Lambert. Some letters bear postal markings: X.d.428 (149, 156, 158, 168).
Series 3: The Slingsby family letters contain letters of the Slingsby family of Scriven, Yorkshire. Most are to Sir Henry Slingsby (d. 1634, father of Sir Henry 1602-1658) from other members of the family. A number arise out of his vice-presidency of the Council of the North and concern parliamentary affairs. Correspondents include Sir Henry Slingsby, his father Francis, his brother Sir William, his nephews Guilford and Sir Robert, his cousins William Byrnand and Sir Francis Trappes-Byrnand, his son-in-law Sir Thomas Metcalfe, his grandson Sir George Marwood, and his cousin Henry, Earl of Northumberland. Other correspondents are Sir Charles Cavendish, Peter Benson, Thomas, Lord Fairfax, Sir John Gibson, Christopher Mather, Robert Norton, Phanuell Otbie, Sir Robert Cecil, later Earl of Salisbury, Christopher Wade, Thomas Wardropp, Edward Wilson, Samuel Wortley, and William Wycliffe. A few of the letters are sent to/from Dublin.
Series 4: Sir Humphrey Style letter is to his wife Elizabeth.
Series 5: The Gower family letters are from Stanley Gower and his wife to their close friends John and Mary Stainforth of Darnall, Yorkshire, 1636-1658. Stanley Gower was rector of Brampton Bryan, Herefordshire, and his patron was first Sir Robert Harley and then Sir Edward Harley. Several letters refer to the disturbances of the civil wars, but not to the prolonged siege in 1643.
Series 6: The Miscellaneous documents consist of a copy of a lease, will, and receipt, apparently unrelated to any of the above families.
Originally bound in three volumes enclosed in a large red box resembling a volume. The papers had been numbered in pencil and were in sequence but as there was no discernible order in the arrangement and as many had become detached and were in need of repair, the volumes were broken up and the letters were divided into six series by family, with unrelated items placed in Series 6: Miscellaneous documents.
Within each series, the correspondence is arranged alphabetically by writer, with unidentified writers appearing at the end of the series, and then chronologically. Series 1: Cavendish-Talbot family papers and Series 2: Wentworth family papers are divided into two subseries: 1.1 Correspondence and 1.2 Other documents. The papers in the other documents subseries, as well as Series 6: Miscellaneous documents, are arranged chronologically.
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Acknowledges his grandmother's favors.
Seal intact.
Arundel had originally wanted the countess to be his son's godmother, but now the queen has requested to be the godmother.
Seal intact.
Refers to the differences between the Earl and Countess of Shrewsbury. The Earl has written to the Queen and some of the Privy Council "touching some harde and vnderect dealing, by my Lady and M[aste]r harry Cavendish." Make sure Lord Talbot goes to the Earl before he goes to the Countess. Business news.
Unable to leave for Sheffield because of an attack of gout.
Seal intact.
He and his brother William have been at Mr. Dales and have spoken with the old gentlewoman, who has promised the Queen not to conclude any marriage "with out makinge hir priuy vnto it soe that for that espetiall cause she wisheth your la[dyship's] presence," who is "best able to attayne it sonest." William bought a jewel and presented it in their mother's name, but "the mayd would receaue non with out hir mothers consent."
Seal intact.
Informs her of the arrival of her son-in-law and daughter, the Earl and Countess of Shrewsbury.
Seal intact.
Asks her aunt to deliver a letter from her husband about his suit "to my honorable good lady," to whom she also sends two fat capons and a hundred wardens (baking pears).
Refers to a letter received by the countess from Henry Cavendish, Grace's husband, on his way to Constantinople.
Informs her of the death of a servant in a duel. At the end of the letter is a note from Elizabeth to her husband, the Earl of Shrewsbury, with a request to "retarne thys."
Refutes rumors that his mother has heard that he is spending his time in London playing at dice.
Accompanies a simple New Year's gift.
Seal intact.
A request to take his niece, aged 18, into her service.
Asks her to pay eight pounds for certain oats.
Asks them to investigate the forcible entry of his house at Medowpleck (Derbyshire) by Henry Cryche and "dyvers mysdemeaned persons," who cast out the wife and children of Cavendish's shepherd, contrary to "certen statutes."
Requests that she ask his uncle, George Chaworth, to speak on his behalf to another uncle, Henry Chaworth, who is determined to settle his estate.
Seal almost intact.
Has enclosed the breadth and length of a caul for the queen of the same work. Is expecting the birth of a child (see X.d.428 (61)).
Understands from his cousin John Manners that a search may be made in certain grounds of hers for such black stone as he needs for his buildings.
Seal intact.
Gives his opinion on certain tutors for her sons. Mentions the paviour's progress at Chatsworth.
Details about the building of Chatsworth.
Has been preparing for his majesty's coming to this "ruinated place." The bearer will speak to her concerning his daughter.
Seal intact.
Has just brought George (a relative of hers) from Ely to Cambridge, and requests payment for George's expenses.
The Star Chamber is unable to hear their matter touching concealments that day. Reports on a case in Chancery involving Mr. Barlow and Mr. Blunt, who liketh to be defended by the earl of Shrewsbury. The queen is coming to Whitehall; the Moscovy ambassador is expected.
It is thought Parliament will end this Saturday. Four days ago lady Arbella spoke to the king on his behalf. The Earl of Pembroke's marriage is deferred by three months.
The judges have made stay for Basford's matter. This morning he was with the Master of the Pells. Lady Arbella is at Edmonton and is very well.
Names the godparents of Princess Mary, one of them being Lady Ar[a]bella [Stuart]. Has heard that the Earl of Shrewsbury was not able to travel. The Queen of Spain had a son, and the Spanish ambassador held a celebration with fireworks. The new Pope will favor the French more than the Spanish.
Recommends the bearer, Christopher Hannam, to her service. Lady of Kent and Sir John Wingfield also recommend him.
Recommends the bearer, a Mr. Candishe, a soldier, to his attention. Comments on the difficulty of training gentlemen of our nation to endure pains. Addresses the Earl of Shrewsbury as his "kinsman."
Survey of European and court news. Mentions Mary, Queen of Scots, the Earl of Sussex, the Earl of Lennox, and the Duke of Norfolk, in the aftermath of the Northern Rebellion.
European and court news. The duke [of Norfolk] was committed to the Tower, most likely because he sent money to assist the Scottish lords, who sided with Mary, Queen of Scots. The Queen is to go to Lord Burleigh's on Sunday, where the Earl of Oxford is to marry Burleigh's daughter. In news from France, there is "nothing spoken of the Quenes Maiesties marriage." The murderer of the Earl of Lennox has been executed.
Suggests that the best place the two parties could meet in greatest secrecy would be at his cousin Anthony Wingfield's, where his unsuspecting cousin could have a sight of her [one of the daughters of the Countess of Shrewsbury?]. European and Irish news (mentions Count Montgomery, the Prince of Orange, the queen mother and her son the King of Poland).
Justifies his conduct as her gamekeeper.
The Queen has agreed to remove the chaplain to the Queen of Scots and let his elder son remain. The Queen of Scots suffers the religion patiently and he hopes to profit her further.
At the last audit at Tutbury, the auditor and receiver examined the locks of the castle gates. Postern gates were nailed up in their presence.
Informs his sister of business relating to a recognizance. His cousin Willoughby has married Mr. Littleton's (Lytelltons) daughter, of Worcestershire(?).
Business matters.
The bearer, Richard Lassye, is the poor man she has been so long desirous of helping.
Asks them on his behalf to arbitrate between Mr. John Lacy and Jesper and Hugh Blithman.
Recommends the bearer as a porter to her aunt. Apologizes for not writing in her own hand, but her finger continues so evil so that she cannot hold a pen.
Written from "my howse."
Has delivered the venison and round pies to Mr. Attorney and the others. The pies that were made "longewayes" were so little and moldy that they were not worth giving and in the future should be "newe baked," and "made of some reasonable bignes and well handled." Gives news of the trial held to try and settle a dispute about encroachments in the Duchy of Lancaster. Even though he had testified against the inhabitants, Mr. Sackford advised that she and her husband make sure that the "inhabitantes abowt the fforrest were well vsed," because he had heard some "very evill speaches of my Lord in the courte." (see R. Somerville,
Informs his mother that the plague has not increased in London. The Duke of Florence sent gifts to the king, queen, and prince. Mentions a recent wedding. Lady Arbella asked him to commend her to his mother.
Seal intact.
Some enclosures near Lincoln were thrown open by certain unruly persons. Parliament sits with little to do. A new Lord Chief Justice of England (Sir Thomas Fleming) and Lord Chief Baron (Justice Tanfield) were named. The King will soon go to Theobalds, and then the Isle of Wight, on a progress. The King has placated the Lord Treasurer with a diamond.
Sends New Year's greetings.
Sir Valentine Browne wrote to him from Berwick of the delivery of some prisoners taken at the capture of Edinburgh castle. May be some question of the safety of Shrewsbury's charge.
Refers to the differences between the Earl and herself. Advises her not to absent herself any longer. Lady Arbella was merry this evening, and ate her meat.
Encloses part of her principal jewels. She shall find all things at Wingfield in good order.
Mentions to his sister-in-law his disputed title to the lands he lately purchased from the Earl of Leicester, formerly part of the monastery of Croxton.
Informs her daughter that "my dowghteres Sayntloo" children and "my son Knystones" children are merry and in good health. She has sent some of her daughters to Chatsworth because the pox are rife in her neighbor's houses, while other daughters are still with her until the sickness is past. Asks about the health of other children.
Martinmas day.
Thanks her daughter for the kindness shown to her daughter Margaret. Asks her to lend her son so much money as a certain piece of land is worth because he is in immediate need of money.
Expresses his affection to his kinsman and his desire to serve him, and assures him of the Queen's good opinion of him. The Spanish ambassador is commanded to depart the realm.
Thanks her for lending her the litter for her journey.
Seal intact.
Begs her mother to no longer "exteme" such false bruits about her.
Reports on a dispute over land involving herself and others in which he is trying to act as an intermediary. Refers to her husband as "my Lorde your Beadfelow." Beseeches her to use the young gentleman, Master Pierrepont (Perpoynte), "as gently as ye can, that we may wynne hym." Has heard that Anne Perpont? is in love with one Texle; if this be so then the hope of Mr. Chaworth "that wayse ys dawnted." Master Perpont? has a book of his called "Gallen in Phesycke." Her two sweet children are in health. P.S., a proverb: "by close dealyng, a man may come to a kyngdom."
Asks after all at Hardwick, including Lady Arbella Stuart. Perhaps he would like to join him and others in procuring a pardon for Hollyngworth and Stafford condemned for the burglary in Glossopdale.
Inside: Cavendish drafts his reply stating that he has returned the supplication to which he has set his hand.
Answers her letter on behalf of Sir Edward Dyer.
Thanks her for her good wishes on the birth of this child, (his grandson John Manners, later 8th Earl of Rutland, b. June 10, 1604), and seeks her advice concerning the christening.
Seal intact.
On behalf of the bearer thanks her for her favor.
Reports on the children and matters concerning the Chatsworth estate--hedges, marble, orchards, and cattle. Has sent four pots with the carrier of this letter. Wishes "all my lyttell mistres encrease of learning which I trust to see." P.S., James Crompe was at Derby.
Has not been able fully to conclude with his tenants.
It is a very joyful matter to see how well the king, his lords, and commons do agree together in this parliament, particularly in the need to have some "seuere execution vppon the preests and recusants for the late executions of the traytors" (after the Gunpowder Plot). Henry Garnet or Walley has been apprehended.
The news here is all in parliament business (after the Gunpowder Plot.) Garnet is in the Tower, and the Earl of Northumberland is expected to be cleared. More arraignments are expected. The queen "groweth bigg."
Seal intact.
Announces the birth of a son to Lady Cobham (Henry, 11th baron, born November 22), and other court news. (See X.d.428 (16)).
Seal intact.
Asks for the restoration of certain cattle and land to the bearer and another.
Is anxious for news of him. Hopes that even though he is out of sight he is not out of mind. Lord Sussex is sick of an ague.
Informs him of the Lord Deputy's wish to educate his son, an ex-hostage, in his (the lord deputy's) household and of the advantages of such an upbringing.
St. Loe is to deliver one Gilbert, sometime servant to Sir Thomas Darcye, and now serving under St. Loe in Ireland, to the bearer.
Refers to the forthcoming sale of Shrewsbury's manor of Stockterden.
The letter accompanies New Year's gifts to her mother: a piece of lawn and a drinking glass.
A recent visitor, Sir John Hales, says that his majesty will be at Berwick Saturday next. He says all things in the Southern parts proceed peaceably, and hopes that (Edward Seymour) Lord Beauchamp's assemblies will dissolve into smoke.
Early April 1603.
Mentions his suit and the projected match between her daughter and his son (Frances and Henry.)
Further discussion concerning the match, a visit to Chatsworth, and the articles of agreement.
Requests her to consider favorably the claim of his kinswoman, an old servant of the late countess, her predecessor, to a piece of land.
Thanks her for her kindness to his cousin, Mr. Edward Talbot.
Seal intact.
Warrant authorizing Lady St. Loe to have certain game from the park of Clipstone, Nottinghamshire, where he (Byron) is master of the game.
Has heard of her son Edward's plot to poison Lady Elizabeth and Lady Elizabeth's husband.
General news. "The qvene yesterdaye her owne seylff rydeng apon the waye craved my horse, vnto home I gave hym." The almoner (of Eton) says that no gentlemen's boys in England shall be better welcome than their boys.
Has leave to come and wait upon her, so will respond to her letters in person.
Addressed to "My honest swete Chatesworth." Asks her to send linens for his use at Whitehall. Complains about the servants at Chatsworth, and his aching teeth. The Queen has found fault with his long absence, to which he replied to the Queen that when she understood the truth and cause she would not be offended, to which she replied, "verye well very well sowbeytt hand off hers did I nott kysse." Other news.
He (another William St. Loe, not Lady Elizabeth's husband) has been travailing in her matters. He is glad that she is in good health, and trusts that the near completion of Chatsworth will continue her health. She should forbear Sir William St. Loe more than she has. Salutes her brother and sister Kniveton.
Illegible signature of correspondent.
He has been persuaded to stand as one of the knights of the shire this next parliament and asks for his good help in Craven.
Notice to be ready with his draughts to plough.
Informs his stepmother of the sorry state of his brother-in-law Henry's finances, and of words spoken privately to Edward's servant by his sister and Henry's wife Grace, "which he [the servant] thought should not haue proceded from hir."
Seal intact.
Whitfield should look well to all things at Chatsworth until her aunt (Marcella Linacre) arrives, and cause Bronshawe to look to things at Pentrich. Lists specific tasks: restocking of beer, charcoal, and wood, improvements to be made in her bedchamber, and provision for her sister Jane's needs.
On overleaf, a note of things to do in another hand.
Worth, who says he will depart at Ladyday next, must be bound in an obligation; he lies like a false knave. Directions for the employment of certain builders at Pentrich, Medowpleck, and Chatsworth. She perceives that Sir James is much disliked for his religion but she thinks his wisdom is such that he will make small account of that matter. Tell her aunt Linacre to have the little garden by the new house made a garden this year. The carrier of this letter also brings three bundles of garden seeds.
Instructions for the erection of the battlement at Chatsworth. P.S. "tyll besse knolles and franke thatt I saye yf they pley their uergenalles [virginals] that the[y] are good gerles."
Hopes to be with her at Chatsworth late tomorrow. Thanks her for the bacon and capon.
Has received her letter of December 1. Thanks her for her puddings and venison. The plague is in London. Her majesty declared that before long he should well perceive she did so trust him as she did few, which he doubts is in reference to the custody of the Scots queen.
Early December 1568
Has received her letter of December 8. Discusses land leases. Reports that lord Sheffield and Lady Paget have died. "Your blake man is in helthe." P.S. Now it is certain the Scots queen comes to Tutbury to his charge.
He is so busy that he will not suffer the gout to settle itself in him.
Refers to a lady's correspondence (Mary, Queen of Scots?). He likes his wife's letters so well that he has sent them to Gilbert.
(Hunter dates it 1573?)
A request to help his cousin Vernon enter into the inheritance of Sir George Vernon, deceased.
Unsigned draft.
Mentions a possible pursuivantship for Anthony Barlow.
Has delivered 20 of the 34 dozen (does not say what) of him to the Scots queen.
Has sent her Thomas Kniveton's letter that she may peruse what is bruited of the young king.
John Kniveton came yesterday and brought papers and no money. Her plate is not come down according to her promise. The house is greatly troubled with the measles.
He has fulfilled her various commissions.
Discusses the problem of the Peak's men. Will provide plate for Gilbert. She should do something about Charles's escapades.
About iron at his smithies and oats for seed. This "lade" (Mary, Queen of Scots?) has been sick. He sends her letters that he received yesterday from Gilbert.
This "lade" is still sick. Asks to be commended to his daughter Talbot.
Refers to conflicts in their respective building projects. Does not like the way she hinders him and his works by keeping so many men. Asks her to take order for the plate, damask, diaper napkins and sheets, for there are no damask or diaper napkins in the house (Sheffield).
Seal intact.
Asks him to make a survey of the town fields in the township of Elland, Yorkshire preparatory to a partition.
On behalf of his cousin Edward Savile, Copley is to survey the town fields of Elland.
Her Majesty seems unlikely to allow "her" (Mary, Queen of Scots?), to go to Buxton. Will send some wine from Wingfield to Buxton.
To be delivered to his wife, Elizabeth, Countess of Shrewsbury. He has intercepted Bagshawe's letter. This and others have caused him great amusement.
He cannot write in his own hand because it is "so trobled with paine and stifnes." Returns the Earl of Leicester's letter, and asks his wife when she writes again to Leicester to say he (Shrewsbury) has no doubt of his remembering the grant of payment.
Seal intact.
Spare not his purse and the regard of his honor and learn how long the Earl of Leicester will be there.
Particulars as to how he is to dispose of Mr. Savile's rent.
Written from the court at Greenwich. The queen "styrreth litell abrode." Much talk about "this Late proclamation for apparell which is thought shall be very severely executed" (STC 8066). Has written to his father concerning the brute at court of his being sick again, which he believes is "vtterly vntrew." Lady Cobham asks daily after her, and sends her commendations.
Seal intact.
All are well at Hackney (the Lennox's). Discusses "thos leude fellowes of the peake" and their suit. His sister Pembroke is strong again, and the Queen sends to her continually.
Seal intact.
Nothing worthy advertising. The Earl is at Wingfield, but returns to Sheffield tomorrow.
He delivered their packet to Leicester this morning. News of Leicester's plans on leaving Buxton for Chatsworth. Mentions the foul weather. Suggests he should defer Lady Lennox's suits to the Queen until he returns to the court.
Seal intact.
His father wanted to know what Gilbert had discussed with his mother, which Gilbert recounted to the Earl in great detail (concerning the bitterness between his parents, and a dispute over his mother's embroiderers). P.S. The letters from Sir John Constable were to warn her about two Scots that were travelling with linen cloth to sell, that had letters of importance to this Queen. Mentions also a letter from Lord Huntington.
News of her husband's movements. Recounts further conversations between him and his father concerning their parents' marital discord. P.S. their son George drinks to his grandmother, "Lady Danmode," every day.
Signed also by Mary.
Recounts the points of discussion between himself, his father, and the Earl of Rutland. Mentions a swelling in his father's body and other news. Asks if the Queen will be offended if he goes to Newark to the Earl.
Signed also by Mary.
News they have gleaned on the Queen's highway while traveling to Dunstable, mostly concerning parliament. P.S. in Mary's hand, written from Beskewod where they left Mrs. Markham, wishing a happy long life to the Countess, Lady Arbella and others.
Signed also by Mary.
Still delayed with daily promises in trying to dispatch their business. The Earl of Essex was going to renew his suit to the queen for Tutbury, but is willing to "surcease" his suit to further Gilbert therein. Description of the wicked murder of the French king, by a friar, it is thought. P.S. in Mary's hand: Nothing has been performed "for your ladyship's case;" concerning Welbeck, "it is much mor bacward then it semed;" the Queen has asked very carefully after Lady Arbella.
Signed also by Mary.
Informs his good friends in Derbyshire and Staffordshire that he (Shrewsbury) may be entertaining the King at Worksop, Nottinghamshire, and asks for their company. He will not refuse any fat capons, hens, partridges or the like if the King come to him.
This is a copy in the hand of John Curzon, who adds a P.S. stating that he had received the letter from his cousin Harpur so that his friends may consider it.
Informs him that Lord Berwick has bought the fee farm of the manor of Hartington, Derbyshire. Chastises him in a P.S.
True copy. Also, a true copy of a letter to his brother-in-law Henry Cavendish, of the same date and pertaining to the same matter.
Thanks her for the well wrought ermine (armen), which shall lie by her daughter of Arundel the day of the christening (of Lady Arundel's son James) but no longer. She is glad to hear that the countess's hip pain has declined. The Queen removed to Theobalds yesterday. The King, Queen, and Lord Chamberlain will attend the christening.
Sends New Year's greetings with the present of a cushion for her to use every day at prayer, which is in the same pattern as the bed of Mary's daughter, the Countess of Arundel.
Seal intact.
Has presented her and Lady Arbella's New Year's gifts to the Queen, who has taken a special liking to the Countess's gift. The Queen told Lady Stafford that she would be careful of Lady Arbella, to whom the Queen has sent a token "which is not so good as I Could wish it," compared to what Lady Arbella gave the queen. Asks her not to share the news of the Queen's expressing her care of Arbella with others.
Her sister of Pembroke has been extremely ill, but is now recovering and sends her greetings. A progress is imminent.
Seal intact.
She comes to the court so seldom that she can give her stepmother-in-law little news. Fears her sister Pembroke's delivery will not fall out so well.
Informs his father of French and Scottish news. The castle at Edinburgh likely to be taken very shortly. There is some talk of a progress to Bristol. Mr. Christopher? Hatton wants to go to the spa because of his great sickness.
Has learnt nothing of Corker (an ex-chaplain of the Earl of Shrewsbury's), who is still prisoner in the Fleet; the matter is almost forgotten. The Queen means to go to Bristol on her progress. King Phillip is going to Flanders, and the Queen's navy is preparing to go to sea.
The Earl of Leicester has departed toward the court to Sir Thomas Gresham's after being at Buxton, Derbyshire, to treat his boil. Has never heard Leicester commend Buxton half so much. The Countess of Bedford, the Earl and Countess of Cumberland, and Lord Wharton and his wife have arrived at Rycote, and "the fatte Erle cummethe this day." Leicester is very careful over his two young cousins, Edward and Henry, to have them placed at Oxford and will bring his "owld deade sewt vnto a newe lyffe" on behalf of her son Charles.
Asks her to lend her horse litter and furniture to his wife, who, failing to recover her health at Buxton, has decided to come home.
Anthony Wingfield (1506-1593) was a Gentleman Usher and Gentleman of the Black Rod. Married first to Margaret Blennerhasset, then ca. 1559 to Jane Purpett and then ca. 1562 to Elizabeth Leake.
Elizabeth Wingfield (b. ca. 1530) was a Gentlewoman of the Privy Chamber and Mother of the Maids. She was the daughter of Ralph and Elizabeth Leake and the half sister of Elziabeth Hardwick.
Informs his wife of the different suggestions of the Countess of Sussex and Lady Cobham as to a suitable gift for the Queen. A safeguard and a cloak described in detail.
Recounts further opinions of the Countess of Sussex on the New Year's gift. Recommends certain colours and embroidery designs. The Queen likes the pansy flower best.
Mr. Wingfield delivered the venison to the Queen and she talked one long hour of the Earl and Countess, saying of the Countess, "I haue bene glade to se my lady Sayntloa but now more dyssirous to se my lady Shrewsbury ... there ys no lady ys thys land that I beter loue and lyke." On overleaf, a list of women and men in the Countess of Shrewsbury's hand, headed by the Queen, ending with "countery wemen," and including various noblemen and women.
The Queen told the Earl of Leicester and the Lord Chamberlain "that she neuer had any [garments] so well lyked her" as the Countess's New Year's gift, and especially liked "the color and strange triminge." All are well at Hackney (the Lennox's), and Lady Arbella is a good child. Asks after Lord George (her grandson, the son of Gilbert and Mary, who died in 1577, age 2.)
Lady Cobham does not advise a gift in money. Lady Arbella is "so good a childe as can be." The tailor only has five and a quarter yards of green velvet for a gown for Lady Arbella, but they need seven yards. The Queen "gaue many good wordes what she woulde do for yow h[onour]," concerning "my lords harde dealinge."
Thanks her for her good opinion. Asks her to "dispose wholly of me as you wills doe of your owne sister, or what frend ells you make very deare reckninge of." Humbly thanks the Queen for her remembrance of the writer.
Unsigned, with numerous corrections, but sealed and addressed.
A list of payments for staff and others, including £4 delivered to Master Clement St. Loe from "my mastur & my lady" (presumably, Sir William St. Loe and Elizabeth, later Countess of Shrewsbury), and £21 10 shillings for 2 chains of gold, which "my lady dyd geve to my masturs systur."
List of items to be purchased to make nightgowns and coats for the children (all but Henry) of George, Earl of Shrewbury.
Mostly clothing material items. Includes two purses for the bride and bride's groom.
Concerning enclosures in the forest. Until the advent of the Countess of Shrewsbury the ancient customs were maintained. Over 4000 persons affected. Copy, possibly cancelled.
Listed day by day from Saturday to Saturday, "befor therle came of Sussex." Probably relates to the Earl of Leicester's visit.
A note of the speeches used to the countess of Shrewsbury's tenants at Chatsworth, "by my Lord my fathers Directions."
Also, another memorandum signed by Leonard Bamforth.
Cancelled with herring-bone incisions; seal removed.
Undated from the time of George, Earl of Shrewsbury. Mention of Gilbert Dickenson, a servant.
Two petitions concerning a dispute about copyhold land in Bradfield, Yorkshire, between two of his tenants, Bramall and Lionel Smylter. The later version, X.d.428 (143), has a memorandum from Gilbert dated September 8, 1593, referring the matter to the custom of his court whose order will be performed by his steward.
X.d.428 (142)
X.d.428 (143)
Concerning a close. A memorandum from Gilbert, dated September 25, 1597, turns the matter over to his bailiff.
For the periods October 10 to January 17, 1597/8, and overleaf, January 17 to March 11, 1597/8. Annotated and signed by William Cavendish, Earl of Devonshire, April 28, 1598. Refers to Cavendish's leadworks.
Owing on the death of Gilbert Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury; William Cavendish, Earl of Devonshire was executor to the Earl of Shrewsbury.
Writes on behalf of the Earl of Derby, concerning Lady Derby's business.
Seal intact.
Requests that he intercede with Sir George Savile, later Marquis of Halifax, to stop the building of a town mill at Oxspring, Yorkshire by Sir Francis Wortley, bart.
On the address leaf there is a forwarding address in another hand: "ffor Mistress Mary Wentworth at the Cat & fidell in the strand beyond St Clemon's Church," a postal stamp with the date "Mr 25," and the note, "latin for gloues is grotetarum [sic]."
Grace Montgomery, Countess of Eglinton, was the widow of Sir Thomas Wentworth, bart. and married to Alexander, 8th Earl of Eglinton.
From her physician, advising her on a kidney-related illness. Recommends going to Knaresborough spa, in Yorkshire, and taking Lucatella's balsam.
Seal almost intact. Note in pencil is in Sir Thomas Phillipps's hand.
Thanks him for entering into a bond on his behalf for the payment of his taxes to the king.
Sir Thomas Wentworth probably of West Bretton, Yorkshire.
From his physician, who has ordered balsam pills and syrup for him. Instructs him that the ale may be sweetened with the syrup of cowslips to taste.
Nathaniel Johnston name taken from the roll of the Royal College of Physicians, I, 453.
Instructions from his physician concerning his want of appetite. Includes a receipt for a drink to strengthen his head.
Requests Wentworth's opinion as to the appointment of his kinsman Sir Thomas Wentworth, bart. as captain of the trained bands of Barkston Ash and Skircoat, and of Sir Thomas Osborne, later Duke of Leeds, of those of Tickhill and Straffourd. Address leaf includes a note to the postmaster signed by Langdale, the notation "post paid," and "Ferribride" (i.e. Ferrybridge, West Yorkshire)
Several seals, one intact.
Concerns Rockley's dispute with Sir John Kay, bart. (the second husband of George's daughter-in-law).
Informs him that the decision of the court of King's Bench in the case involving him (Sir Thomas) and his brother, Sir Matthew Wentworth, 2nd bart., went against them. Address leaf includes a note to the postmaster of Ferrybridge and the notation "post paid. 3d."
Concerning payments out of his estate. Presses them to collect his arrears. Would like Thomas Edmunds to become his steward (Edmunds is a known person, d.1663).
Thomas Wentworth later Sir Thomas Wentworth, bart., of Bretton.
Asks his kinsmen to further his business concerning his estate and trust. He has written to his Uncle Clare to get passes for the Earl of Strafford's sisters to come out of England, and hopes that his uncle and aunt will come with them, but if in doing so or in staying at Woodhouse they "find any preuidice," he desires that his sisters entreat "My Lady" to be with them there. He has heard since that his uncle intends not to go away, of which he is glad. His sister Anne will acquaint them what money must be prepared.
Thomas Wentworth, Esq., later Sir Thomas Wentworth, bart., of Bretton.
Asks him to make his (William's) children his heirs, to keep the estate in the Wentworth name. The funeral was magnificent, costing £1200 (possibly Sir Thomas Wentworth's, d. 1675).
Seal intact.
Suggests a marriage between Sir Matthew's son and one of Whitehead's nieces. Describes the various nieces and their fortunes. He has taken his wife and daughter to London, so "that they may see this Famous Citty."
Seal intact (slightly damaged).
Warrant to arrest anyone whose lands are worth less than £100 per annum found with the means for destroying game. Means of destruction include guns, bows, greyhounds, ferrets, dogs.
Signed: Thomas Wentworth, at W[entworth] Woodhouse [Yorkshire]. Seal intact.
Gives news of the arrival of the French ambassador, who will remain incognito until his large retinue comes, and of the navy's preparations during the Second Dutch War. Also, describes a comet.
On address leaf: "post paid -3d:" "fferrybrigg" (i.e. Ferrybridge, West Yorkshire), stamped with date "Ap 8." Seal intact (black). Letter damaged.
And in particular to Aymer Rich (i.e. Eymer Ryche) at Bulhouse (Bethane's Baronetage V, 451).Written from Wakefield, West Yorkshire. Signed by Sir Thomas Wentworth, later Earl of Strafford, as custos rotulorum, Sir Richard Beaumont, and another Thomas Wentworth.
Acquittance for the discharge of £10 in composition money paid for not attending and receiving the order of knighthood at the king's coronation.
Signed: Wentworth, [Sir Thomas, later 1st earl of Strafford].
Acquittance for the discharge of £15 in composition money paid for not attending and receiving the order of knighthood at the king's coronation. Signed: Wentworth, (Sir Thomas, later 1st earl of Strafford).
They are not to seize the horses or goods of Thomas Wentworth of Bretton, Yorkshire, Esq., later Sir Thomas Wentworth, bart. A note in another hand states: "Remember to search for Bradshawe will Swinburne and Payler."
Touching the forfeited and settled estate. Signed: William Taylor. Also, an incomplete rough draft of a bond between John Haigh the elder and John Haigh the younger, undated.
Written from Barnsley, South Yorkshire. By act of Parliament, Commissioners are to collect one month's assessment to the king and pay it to the head collector, who adds a note overleaf.
Signed: T. Wentworth and J. Wentworth. Two seals, one intact.
Advises on the action to be taken by Lady Wentworth, concerning the publication of anonymous scurrilous verses against her late husband, Sir Thomas Wentworth, bart. (d. December 5, 1675) which had been sent to his brother, Sir Matthew Wentworth, 2nd bart.
Asks that he arbitrate between himself and Sir Henry Slingsby.
See also X.d.428 (188, 189).
He has received the surrender from Ralph Mawtus and forwards it to Francis, his uncle.
Has asked Sir Ferdinando Fairfax to hear and determine the matter concerning the arrearages of tithe due to him (Sir Charles).
Seal intact.
Mentions his (Fairfax's) new office, as sheriff for Yorkshire. The bailwick of Claro has already been given to Sir Henry Goodwick (or Goodricke) and Sir Peter Middleton of Stockeld, (kinsman to Thomas Wentworth); if Slingsby had asked sooner, he would have granted the bailwick to him.
Baron Thomas Fairfax was later the Viscount Fairfax of Elmley, in the Irish peerage.
Sir John Bingley will bring Captain Skipwith to Sir A[rthur] Ingram's. The new lord chief baron of the Exchequer (Sir Humphrey Davenport) "goes rowndly to worke," fining the sheriffs for their "negligent returns about knightinge." Fears that Master H. Stapleton will be fined. Hopes to attend him soon in Yorkshire.
Seal almost intact.
He has learned from a gentleman of Lord Fairfax's that his son is prisoner, because of a "trifling Debt," in the Marshalsea at London, where "the Company may easily make a young man worse addicted." Desires Slingsby to pay the money, thought it be £5, to release him, for which he will be reimbursed. Letter unaddressed, assumed to be to Sir Henry Slingsby.
Informs his [grand]father-in-law of certain business matters in London, including Widow Darnton's rent, a letter to John Todd, a letter served to the Duchess of Lennox, and a privy seal served to "one of the Defendants." Sir William Fitch is not in town, Sir William Slingsby is at Richmond but returns to London tomorrow, Master Dymock promises an answer, and his (Marwood's) brother Slingsby is with Master Vincent.
Written on St. Thomas' eve. Gives the date on which the commissioners will meet. Hopes Master Robert Oglethorpe will accept his (Mather's) bond.
Informs his father-in-law of the status of his court case against his tenant, one Robinson of Thorneton, and asks for his assistance in procuring the orders entered for the discharge of Clotherom, in order for Metcalfe to relieve himself and his family. Mentions Baron Denham, Justice Chamberlain, Lord Montgomery, Lord Haddington, and James I in connection with the case. His cousin, Thomas Musgrave, will fully inform Slingsby about the grant for the recognizance.
Seal intact.
Asks his cousin to be a member of the commission which is to hold courts of survey in each of his manors.
Seal intact, (reproduced in Smith,
On estate matters at Red House, Yorkshire; discusses a shortage of capons and hens and how to provide better provisions for his young master for this Christmas.
Date: endorsed as 1632, signed as 1623.
Concerning management of his woods, orchards, and hedges at Red House.
About the election of burgesses to the next Parliament. Otby's son-in-law has been informed concerning Sir Henry's request. He will do his best. Asks Sir Henry to assist the bearer of the letter in his suit. (Otby, rector of Staveley, Yorkshire, had been tutor to Sir Henry's sons Henry and Thomas).
Seal almost intact.
Expresses gratitude to Cecil for presenting him to the queen in the garden at Greenwich, who gave him her hand to kiss and thanked him for his service. Asks him to be one of the hearers of his petition to the queen.
Sir Robert Cecil, later Earl of Salisbury.
Apologizes to his uncle for a letter of his which never arrived at Red House. Reports that Sir Henry's letter to Master Wansforth was well-received. Wansforth has assured Guilford that he will move Lord Cottington again, either by himself or jointly with Sir Roger Palmer.
Seal intact.
Asks his uncle if there is any possibility of recovering his horse from his cousin and selling it, since he has not received any money out of England since coming to Ireland. "My lord" has employed him for the Vice-Admiralty of Munster and recommended him to be chosen a burgess in the present Parliament. Refers to the troubles between his uncle Sir Francis and his wife, and the "misfortune concerninge there sonne," which "was the occasion, (as I enterpret of it) of his late goinge to see her to comforte her."
Seal intact.
Informs his uncle that he is still without employment; the cardinal is coming by land; he has heard no more of Sir Kenelm Digby's voyage. He hopes for employment soon, however, since the king is building ships. He has been learning Spanish, so that "if any Embasador should be sent thither, I might be fitt to attend him."
Seal intact.
He has sent his tomb "packt vpp in two great sugar-Chestes," and needs his brother's help in transporting it from Hull to the chapel at Knaresborough, where their father's tomb lies. Mentions the European travels of his nephew Francis, his dispute with the archbishop of York concerning a lease, and Sir Walter Bethel's (Henry's son-in-law) trip to the Forest of Dean with Henry Rich, Earl of Holland.
Seal intact, (reproduced in Smith,
Apologizes to his cousin for not writing, but "sorrow is an ill secretary." Upon the serving of the king's letter yesterday, he wrote to Peter Benson that he could say nothing, and if nothing but his oath will satisfy Benson, Benson must procure a commission. Requests that Sir Henry return Peter Benson's letter and asks him how to "prevent contempt for I cannot ryde to yorke." He has been told that Anthony Craven had not bought Stavely nor was it sold.
Seal intact.
He cannot write much because he has "such a payne in my head." Henry Benson has brought him a letter, dated April 1612, from Sir Francis to his father Peter Benson, in which Sir Francis declared Sir Henry's consent to "certayn thinges agreed to betweene your self and him." Henry Benson would not show him the letter until Sir Francis promised to return it to him undefaced, and mentioned another incriminating letter in Sir Henry's hand to Sir Francis. This requires consideration, and he wishes that they might all speak together.
Seal intact.
Discusses estate matters, such as bonds, the sowing of beans, Sherriff Hodgson, barley, the building of a stone wall, woodcutting.
Discusses particulars of the raising of the aid due to the king for the knighting of his son (i.e. Prince Charles).
Discusses estate matters. Informs him that Master John Pascoll has begun to plow the forty acres of marshland "which is in Controversie" between Sir Henry and Pascoll, despite Wilson's having forbidden him to do so. Wilson is now so troubled by Master Pascoll and one Master Porter that they will not allow him passage "either to Market or mill." The chimney has been pulled down and a new brick one built for £12.
Endorsed: "Edwarde Willson my Tennant at 'Stewe marris'" (i.e. Stow Maries, Essex). Hand of endorsement similar to that in letters to Sir Henry Slingsby.
Hall's kinsmen seek money owed to them from Hall, which Wortley urges him to pay, "for sutes is good for nobody."
See
Asks him to help further the collection of the fines in Northumberland. He understands Slingsby has received the rents from the Earl of Cumberland and Lady Lennox.
There is no news "but of horses and dogs." Instructs his wife to go to Lady Prescott's (Prescots) house on Saturday, March 2, where she should stay until he comes to fetch her when the assizes are ended. Details concerning servants, an order to the haberdasher, and the outfitting of horses and riders, that "wee maye make the better showe."
A conventional letter of love and gratitude to their son and daughter, beginning "Children are the liuing images of theyr parents." This and the following letters speak of his (Gower's) indebtedness to Stainforth. Mention of his wife's godson and his goddaughter (the children of the Stainforth's) and of Gower's patron, Sir Robert Harley.
Signed also by Sarah. Seal intact.
Repeats his indebtedness to Stainforth, promising to repay him soon. Calculations of sums of money on overleaf. Presumably to John Stainforth.
Repeated assurances of repaying the debt, beginning, "Pitty the condition of your poore but louing parents, that are not able to lay vp for yow, but yow for them." Stanley has sent his goddaughter "a little psalme booke, which I hope by this tyme shee can make vse of," and Sarah has sent her godson an "AEols blast out of a payre of bellows."
Answers his request for help in placing his (John's) daughter here. "Our plundered condition maks vs keepe but one mayd," but John's daughter's ability in reading, writing, sewing, and starching "will render hir acceptable in very good places." They expect the arrival of the Scottish Commissioners, "then both kingdoms send propositions to the King." Some members of the House of Commons have ordered Sir Thomas Fairfax to send soldiers into Ireland: the Presbyterian party obeys, the Independents demur and prepare a mutinous petition.
Signed also by Sarah. Seal intact.
They will continue to try and obtain Stainforth-'s discharge through the good offices of his patron, Sir Edward Harley. Wishes he was lord Arundel when his son traveled with him to Shrewsbury, so that he could have commanded him to go to Brampton where Gower would have been able to pay him, and entertain him. Laments "that nonpayment of our debt."
For land in Blackbowrow Hawse (i.e. Blackborough House, probably in Kentisbeare, Devon). Dated: 7 Edward III. Paper copy.
Acknowledgement of the receipt of £5, 13 shillings, 4 pence from Alice White (Whyett, Whyeghtt), sometime wife of the late John Bromehead of Burwell Mary, Cambridgeshire, bequeathed him in Bromehead's will.