YALE UNIVERSITY
LIBRARY

LETTERS AND OTHER DOCUMENTS

illustrating the relations between
ENGLAND AND GEEMANY

COMMENCEMENT OP THE THIRTY YEARS' WAR.

FROM THE OUTBREAK OF THE REVOLUTION IN BOHEMIA TO THE
ELECTION OF THE EMPEROR FERDINAND II.

EDITED BY
SAMUEL RAWSON GARDINER,
late student of christchurch.

PEINTED FOE THE CAMDEN SOCIETY.

M.DCCC.LXV.

WESTMINSTER
PRINTED BY JOHN BOWYER NICHOLS AND SONS,
25, PARLIAMENT STREET.

[no. xc]

COUNCIL OF THE CAMDEN SOCIETY
FOR THE YEAR 1865-66.

President,
THE MOST HON. THE MARQUESS CAMDEN, K.G.
ARTHUR ASHPITEL, ESQ. F.S.A.
WILLIAM HENRY BLAAUW, ESQ. M.A., F.S.A.
JOHN BRUCE, ESQ. F.S.A. Director.
WILLIAM CHAPPELL, ESQ. F.S.A. Treasurer.
WILLIAM DURRANT COOPER, ESQ. F.S.A.
JAMES CROSBY, ESQ. F.S.A.
THOMAS W. KING, ESQ. F.S.A.
THE REV. LAMBERT B. LARKING, M.A.
JOHN MACLEAN, ESQ. F.S.A.
FREDERIC OUVRY, ESQ. Treas.S.A.
EVELYN PHILIP SHIRLEY, ESQ. M.A., F.S.A.
WILLIAM JOHN THOMS, ESQ. F.S.A. Secretary.
WILLIAM TITE, ESQ. M.P., F.R.S., V.P.S.A.
ALBERT WAY, ESQ. M.A, F.S.A.
SIR THOMAS E. WINNINGTON, BART. M.P.

The Council of the Camden Societi desire it to be under
stood that they are not answerable for any opinions or observa
tions that may appear in the Society's publications; the Editors
of the several Works being alone responsible for the same.

PREFACE.

It is seldom that events which have taken place upon the Continent
have affected the course of English history so deeply as the struggle
between the two religious parties in Germany which lit up the
flames of the Thirty Years' War. ' The second growth of Puritanism,
and the anti-monarchial feeling which reached its culminating point
in the reign of Charles I., may be distinctly traced to the dis
satisfaction of the nation with the desertion by James of his
Protestant allies.
The general character of James's diplomacy has long been one
of the common places of history. What it was in detail no one
has yet inquired. And yet it would seem to be necessary to the
forming of a just estimate of the foreign policy of the Parliaments
of 1621 and 1624 to arrive at some correct idea of the real nature
of the diplomacy which they denounced.
The present volume is an attempt to fill up to some extent
this gap in our history by means of documents which, with three or
four exceptions, have been hitherto unpublished. The interesting
despatches of Doncaster were consulted by Mrs. Green, and quo
tations have been introduced by her in her Lives of the Princesses',
but she has almost exclusively confined her choice to passages which
relate to the personal history of the Electress Palatine.
This volume forms a complete work in itself, carrying down the
history of English diplomacy in Germany to a definite period.
Materials have however been collected for another series which will

VI PREFACE.
illustrate the missions of Dohna and Buwinckhausen to England, and
the vacillation of James consequent upon the acceptance of the
Crown of Bohemia by his son-in-law.
I have only to add, that, unless when I have specially noticed the
exception, Doncaster's despatches are all in the hand of his
Secretary Nethersole, and signed only by himself; and that the
marginal notes appended to letters received by Sir Eobert Naunton
are in his own handwriting. I have only printed them where
they seemed to throw light upon the letter on which they were
written. Sometimes they had reference to other subjects, or were
mere catch-words inserted to direct the reader's eye to certain
passages in the text.

INTRODUCTION.

In the history of religious liberty local toleration precedes personal
toleration. It was in the nature of things that, before individuals
were acknowledged to possess the right of believing and worshipping
as they pleased, it must have been decided whether States themselves
were to be allowed the right of adopting a religion which was
obnoxious to other members of the European commonwealth.
At one time it seemed as if the German States, in the midst of
which the Protestant doctrines had been first heard, would also have
been the first to establish complete protection to the several states in
their own religious developement. By the Peace of Augsburg
in 1555 each State of the Empire was acknowledged to have the
right of regulating its own religious affairs.
The celebrated maxim Cujus regio ejus religio is rarely mentioned
now except with obloquy. It is seldom remembered that in truth it
was a landmark in the path to freedom. For it was directed not
against the individual but against the Emperor. That individual
liberty was intolerable was acknowledged by every one. The only
question was who the persecutor was to be.
The smallness of the German territories was undoubtedly con
ducive to theological bitterness. Nowhere were clerical cliques
so narrow-minded, nowhere was the circle of orthodoxy fenced about
with such careful restrictions, as in the petty states of the Empire.
But the same cause which narrowed the creed and soured the
temper of the Gourt divines, rendered the lot of the persecuted

viii INTRODUCTION.
defender of uncourtly opinions comparatively easy. The Calvmist
who was unable to live peaceably at Dresden, and the Lutheran
whose existence was rendered miserable at Heidelberg, had only to
retreat a few miles across the border to find a new home where his
own mother tongue was spoken, and where he was sure to be
received with open arms by a band of sympathizing admirers, and to
be rewarded by the patronage of a friendly Prince.
But for the existence of the Ecclesiastical Principalities, the
Peace of Augsburg would probably have been accepted as a permanent
settlement, and in due course of time the Princes, ceasing to dread
attacks from without, would have removed the yoke which pressed
upon their subjects.
The Ecclesiastical Eeservation which forbade the further secu
larisation of Church lands was soon broken through at many points,
especially in the North of Germany. The greed for extension of
dominion by which the aggressors were actuated was excused in the
eyes of themselves and of posterity by the fact, that the Protestant
populations subject to Catholic prelates sympathized with the change.
At last a check was placed upon these gradual encroachments. An
attempt made to secularise the Electorate of Cologne and the Bishopric
of Strasburg failed. The Ecclesiastical States on the Ehine had the
Spanish armies in the Netherlands at their backs. Yet even this
resource might have failed in the end if the power of the sword had
not been sustained by the spiritual arms of the Jesuits. A Catholic
reaction spread gradually Northwards, and before the end of the
sixteenth century Protestant - preachers had been silenced and
Protestant congregations dispersed till the populations of the still
remaining Ecclesiastical domains were once more willing subjects of
the Eoman see.
It is not to the pressure of the governments alone that this change
was to be attributed. The selfishness of the Protestant Princes and

INTRODUCTION. IX
the wranglings of Protestant theologians were little calculated to
attract the hearts of men by the side of the devotion and discipline
of the Jesuits. " Order is Heaven's first law," and it was only when
they could oppose the Jesuits in the name of a higher and more
divine order than they could teach, that they had any chance of
success against them.
At the commencement of the seventeenth century the Protestant
States demanded a revision of the Treaty of Augsburg, so as to suit
the altered circumstances of the time. " Eecognize," they said in
effect, " the secularisations which have already taken place, and we
will engage that no further encroachments shall be made." In the
same spirit they approached the question of the Imperial Courts,
which, as experience had taught, were not to be trusted to decide
questions fairly to which a Protestant and a Catholic were parties.
They demanded that the questions then pending should not be
brought before the Courts at all, but should be made the subjects of
amicable negotiations, and that the Protestants should be admitted
to occupy their fair share of the Bench of the Imperial Courts.
These demands were so reasonable in themselves, and they were so
consonant to the settlement which was finally adopted at the Peace
of Westphalia, that their rejection by the Catholics is sufficient to
throw upon them the blame of being the principal originators of the
Thirty Years' War.
The reasons which induced the Catholic States to reject the
compromise thus offered were mainly two.
In the first place, though they had, as far as it was possible, to
discover, no intention at this time to recover by force of arms the
secularised property in dispute, they were unwilling to give their
formal consent to its alienation. What had been lost before 1555
was gone, and their fathers must answer for that. What was now
required was, that they should give to that which they looked upon
CAMD. SOC. b

INTRODUCTION.

as a fresh act of spoliation the sanction of the public law of the
Empire. This difficulty would, however, probably have been overcome in
time by some such compromise as that which was adopted at Miil-
hausen in 1620, if it had not formed part of another and larger objec
tion. For the Catholics saw well enough that they were required in
reality to decree the dissolution of the Empire. The authority of
that venerable institution had been deeply impaired by the, peace
of Augsburg. Would any remnant of it be left at all, if it were
once more summoned to relinquish its right to vindicate the legal
title of the suppressed Ecclesiastical foundations? It was not
simply party feeling which thus attached the Catholics to the
Emperor; it was also dread of the anarchy which must almost
inevitably ensue upon the dissolution of the Empire, which held
them back. What they were required to surrender was a legal
right, and, in their eyes at least, a legal right based upon the
eternal principles of justice. And this they were required to do not
in the name of any opposing theory of right and justice, but simply
in the name of what in the political jargon of the present day are
called " accomplished facts." If they yielded now, what possible
guarantee was there that in the next generation the Protestants would
not seize some favourable opportunity of making a fresh aggression,
and then appeal to the consideration of the Catholics to give them
a legal title to the property acquired by spoliation ?
Such reasoning as this must have been hard enough for the
Protestant Princes to reply to ; not because it was unanswerable,
but because the only satisfactory answer was based upon principles
which they themselves refused to admit. Their claim was in reality
in accordance with a higher justice than, any that could be invoked
on the part of the Catholics, not because they had a prescription
of forty or fifty years to their new possessions, but because the in-

INTRODUCTION. XI
habitants of those possessions were unwilling to submit to the
return of their ancient masters. If the Empire was blind to this
all-important fact, it must face the inevitable dissolution that was
before it.
For some years logic was bandied about from one side to the
other in vain. Both parties were thoroughly frightened. The
Protestants imagined that the Catholics were contemplating a
forcible seizure of the secularised domains. The Catholics believed
that the Protestants intended an equally violent aggression upon
the territories still remaining in Ecclesiastical hands. The Pro
testant Union, under the Elector Palatine, and the Catholic League,
under the Duke • of Bavaria, sprung into existence as defensive
associations, and glared defiantly at one another across the irregular
line by which the two religions were geographically separated.
Yet,' as years passed on, the prospects of the maintenance of
peace brightened. That the war caused by the disputed succession
in Cleves was brought to an end without any general outbreak of
hostilities was in itself a good augury for the future. The Union
and the League were, in fact as well as in name, defensive associa
tions, and, if only the next Imperial election could be wisely used
to force a compromise upon the Catholics, it was not impossible
that the peace of Germany might be maintained.
The candidate put forward by the Catholics to the Imperial
throne which might any day be vacated by the death of the Em
peror Matthias was the Archduke Ferdinand, by hereditary right
sovereign of Styria, Carinthia, and Carniola, and by the- choice of
the childless Matthias, and the voluntary cession of the childless
brothers of the Emperor, heir to the remaining dominions of the
House of Austria. He was known to be of firm and unyielding
temper, and his devotion to the cause of the Catholic reaction had
been proved by his violent suppression of Protestantism in his

Xll INTRODUCTION.
hereditary dominions, and by his refusal, as representative of the
Emperor, to accept the Protestant compromise at the diet of 1609.
If it had been possible to find another candidate, it would have
been worth while for the Protestants to vote against him. But as
this was not the case, as no Protestant candidate could by any pos
sibility gain more than three votes out of the seven, and as an
attempt made by the Elector Palatine to divide the forces of the
Catholics by offering his support to Maximilian of Bavaria had
failed altogether, there was nothing left but to accept the un
welcome necessity, and to be content with imposing reasonable
conditions upon Ferdinand.
Nor would this be by any means an unsatisfactory result. For
it could hardly be doubted that if the Protestants were unanimous
concessions would be made to them, and that when those concessions
were once made, Ferdinand, if he had the will, would be altogether
without the power to violate them.
But for the disturbing influence of the Bohemian Eevolution
therefore, it is not improbable that the election of Ferdinand would
have been celebrated by a grateful posterity as the commencement
of an era of peace. It was the condition of the hereditary dominions
of the House of Austria which precipitated the crisis which might
otherwise have been averted. ,
The fortunate marriages of the House of Austria have passed into
a proverb ; and it is seldom that any satirical distich has attained
such universal currency as that which asserted that the descendants
of Eudolplv of Hapsburg owed the crowns that they had won to
Venus rather than to Mars. Yet in sober truth m the greatness of
that House was owing to a very different cause. It was in vain
that the heiresses of each neighbouring kingdom and duchy were
wooed and won by successive Archdukes. The repulsion between
rival districts and rival races was too strong to be overcome in this

INTRODUCTION. Xlll
manner. The work of dissolution went on as rapidly as that of
annexation, and it was seldom that the second and third generation
did not see the tie broken and the work to be done over again.
What dynastic ambition was unable to effect was accomplished
by the fear of the Turkish power. After the terrible defeat of
Mohacs in 1526, Hungary and Bohemia threw themselves into the
arms of Ferdinand I., and as long as the conflict lasted they re
mained on the whole faithful to . his successors. It was not till the
peace of Sitva Torok in 1606 that the terror of a Turkish conquest
was finally removed, and scarcely was the ink dry upon that treaty
when the commotions which preceded the deposition of Eudolph
gave an unmistakeable sign that the light band which had held
together .the various races for so many years was being strained to
its utmost.
A necessary consequence of the opposition which thus sprung
up between the House of Austria and the races which submitted
uneasily to its sceptre was the struggle which had to be fought
out here, as it had to be fought out everywhere else, between
monarchy and the feudal aristocracy, by which in each separate
state the traditions of national independence were maintained.
That the political effects which would have resulted from a
failure of the House of Austria to accomplish its ends would have
been most disastrous, it is impossible to doubt. A dissolution of
the ties which bound Austria to Bohemia and to Hungary could
hardly fail to have been accompanied by a fresh and successful
attack from the Turks. The janissaries would have threatened
Europe from the walls of Vienna. Even if this miserable cata
strophe had been averted, it would only have been by the efforts
of men who would have allowed their country to waste away in
the miseries of a Polish anarchy till, in the fulness of time, their

XIV INTRODUCTION.
crimes had ripened to the harvest which would be gathered in by
the armies of the Czar.
It was the misfortune of Austrian Protestantism that its fate was
intimately united with that of the aristocracy. Nowhere in Europe
had the Protestant clergy so little influence. No Austrian Calvin
or Knox, not even a Eidley or a Cranmer, had ever sprung into
existence. The Bohemian confession of faith stands alone amongst
the countless confessions of the sixteenth century as the work
of a body composed entirely of laymen. That there were thou
sands amongst those vast populations whose faith was sincere
cannot be doubted for a moment. The little band of me
diaeval Puritans, the Bohemian Brothers, had long submitted to
an iron discipline, and in the midst of trials and persecutions had
proved their constancy long before the name of Protestantism had
been heard of. There were large numbers of Lutherans who, when
the day of trouble came, proved their attachment to their faith by
submitting to poverty and exile for its sake, and there were still
larger, numbers who returned to the Eoman Church only in name,
and who handed down their secret faith to their children to burst
forth once more when the edict of toleration was pubhshed by
Joseph II. Nor is it possible to estimate how far religion may
have exercised its influence upon the hearts even of those to
whom it chiefly appealed as being the watchword of a political
party. Yet when every allowance has been made, the dispas
sionate inquirer can hardly come to any other conclusion than that,
however badly he may think of the religious system by which
Protestantism was superseded in these territories, he cannot do
otherwise than rejoice at the defeat of the political system of the
men by whom Protestantism was mainly supported.
And if this is the view which sober historians in the nineteenth

INTRODUCTION. XV
century are inclined to take, with what eyes must the youthful
Ferdinand have looked upon the scenes which were passing before
him. His character and position have not received justice either
from the acrimonious attacks of his contemporaries, or from the
indiscriminate eulogy of his recent biographer. His distinct place
in the scale which leads from the loathing and unquestioning in
tolerance of men like our Henry V. to the large tolerance of men
like William III., has still to be recognised. Step by step, as
each generation took its place upon the stage, the political aspect
of ecclesiastical dispute presented itself more vividly to the minds
of the representative men of the age, whilst the theological aspect
was gradually sinking out of sight. The place of Ferdinand II. is
to be found between Philip II. and Eichelieu. To the Spaniard
of the sixteenth century Protestantism was still an odious heresy,
which if it were allowed to spread might perhaps be injurious to
absolute monarchy, and to Spanish supremacy, but which was chiefly
to be abominated as tainting the religious faith of Christians.
By the Frenchman of the seventeenth century it was altogether
regarded from the political point of view. Ferdinand occupies a
middle position. Protestantism is still an error hateful to God
and man; but it is. easy to see, from the expressions which he uses
in those chance utterances which betray character most readily,
that it is as a source of moral and political disorder rather than as a
spiritual poison that he is accustomed to regard it. " So lange,"
he wrote to his sister in 1547, " die Pradicanten walten, ist nichts
als Aufruhr und Unrath zu erwarten, wie man es da wo sie geduldet
werden taglich erfahren kann." In his will, drawn up finally in
1621, he charged the guardians of his son to banish from the land
all heretical doctrines, " woraus Ungehorsam und Schwierigkeit
der Unterthanen entspringt." His motto, " Legitime certantibus,"
was the truest expression of his mind, ever anxious for the orderly

XVI INTRODUCTION.
maintenance of justice, ever ready to submit to the restraints which
he believed to be legitimate.
To such a man the religious condition of the Austrian territories
must have appeared even more anarchical than it really was. That
the aristocracy should have taken possession for the Protestants of
the churches to which they had the right of presentation was, if
altogether indefensible on Ferdinand's principles, yet intelligible
enough when viewed from a certain point of view. That they
should seize upon neighbouring churches, the patronage of which
was not theirs, should drive out the priests, should maltreat persons
who refused to abjure their original faith, should carry off the altar-
plate, and convert the sacristy into a larder or a cellar, would
appear to him more disgraceful still. Such things indeed are only
what had taken place in- Scotland fifty or sixty years before. In
a sudden change carried out in a richly endowed church, such
abuses were in that age almost inevitable. The difference hetween
the ecclesiastical positions of Scotland and Austria results from
the fact that in Scotland there sprung up a Calvinistic creed,
and a Presbyterian organization, which, however harsh may have
been its rule when the day of trial was at an end, served un
doubtedly to give cohesion and moral discipline to those who. took
no part in the vices and avarice of the aristocracy. To play such a
part as this in the history of their country, the Austrian Lutheran
clergy had no pretensions. With the aristocracy they had risen to
importance, with the aristocracy they would fall.
Whether it would have been possible for a Protestant ruler to
introduce order among his nobles without riding roughshod over
the religious convictions of the majority of his subjects, must remain
a matter of conjecture. All that can be said is that it was impossible
for Ferdinand. That he was inclined to sweep' away Protestantism
by fair means or foul is a mere calumny which every fact in the

INTRODUCTION. XV1*»
history of his life contradicts. But it was certain that he would be
stopped by no consideration, excepting when he thought that he
had reached the utmost limits of the letter of the law; and, wide as
those limits were, his own interpretation of them pushed them wider
still. And so it was that he went from one step to another, never
ceasing to cherish the conviction that, at the very time at which he
was in' fact the great anarchist of Europe, he was the real foe to
anarchy. His expulsion of the Protestants from his hereditary
dominions, his confiscation of the privileges of the Bohemians
in 1621, his transference of the Electorate to the Duke of Bavaria
in 1623, his seizure of the territories secularised by the Peace of
Augsburg, by the Edict of Eestitution in 1629, were all from his
point of view strictly legal measures. The history of the man who
for the sake of order let loose the hordes of Wallenstein upon the
desolated Empire is probably the most conspicuous example known
of the ruin which may be brought down by a narrow and one-sided
mind animated by the conscientious belief that his own notions of
order and justice are identical with the Divine order of the world.
It was his firm belief not only that he was doing God service, but
that he was engaged in a beneficial and statesman-like task that
enabled him to look calmly from his palace at Vienna upon the un
utterable horrors which he was causing, like the Gods of the poet,
who smile in secret, looking over wasted lands,
Blight and famine, plague and earthquake, roaring deeps, and fiery sands,
Clanging fights, and flaming towns, and sinking ships, and praying hands.
But they smile and find a music centred in a doleful song
Steaming up, a lamentation, and an ancient tale of Wrong,
Like a tale of little meaning, although the words be strong.
If aristocratical Protestantism had been able anywhere to organize
itself it would have been in Bohemia. Cut off by a wall of moun
tains from the rest of Germany, and in a great measure- separated
CAMD. SOC. C

XV111 INTRODUCTION.
by race from their eastern neighbours, the Bohemians ought to have
formed a compact national body able to resist all attempts to dictate
to them the acceptance of a religion which they detested. Once
already they had shewn what a thoroughly aroused nation is capable
of. But that had been in the days which had long passed by, when
rich and poor had gathered in brotherly union round the cup as the
symbol of equality before God. The gigantic cups still held their
places outside the churches to which they had been elevated by a
past generation. To be " sub utraque " was still the official designa
tion of a Protestant. But the spirit of the Old Utraquism had
succumbed with its doctrines ; and, whatever enthusiasm might be
excited by the new Lutheranism which had too often been nothing
more than the cloak beneath which the great landowners had thrown
off all authority in church and state, it was certain that it was very
different from the wild fanaticism which had enabled the followers
of Ziska and Procopius to scatter the imperial hosts of Sigismund
like chaff before the wind."
The revolution which overthrew the tottering throne of Eudolph
II., had been a golden opportunity alike for the Protestants and for the
a Die husitischen Kampfe sind eine nationale Sache gewesen und die Erinnerung an
dieselben verwischte sich nie im Bewusztsein der Nation. Dichter und Maler entlehuten
denselben ibren Stoff, einige der trefflicbsten Volkslieder datiren aus jenen Zeiten, die
Manner jener Bewegung sind stets in Munde des Volke geblieben, und kein Bbhmischer
Konigsname ist je demselben so geliiufig geworden als der des blinden Anfubrers der
Husitenheere. Die Husitenzeit bildet den Ankniipfungspunkt an die altesten aber auoh
frischesten "Traditionen des Volkes und kaum gibt es einen Ort von Bedeutung in
Bohmen, fiber den die Sage nicht ein merkwurdiges Ereignisans jener Zcit zu erzahlen
w'uszte. Die gewaltsame Umwalzung unter Ferdinand II, die vielen Leiden im iister-
reichischen Successionskriege bei den Einfallen der Preuszen, Baiern, und Franzosen
sind kaum 100 bis 200 Jahre entfernt, und doch haftet die Erinnerung mit seltener
SchwSehe an ihnen. In beiden Fallen hat der Landmann nur gelitten, der Gewalt
seine Ueberzeugung oder seine Habe zum Opfer gebracht, nie sich zur Wehr gesetzt.—
Gindely Qeschichle der Ertheilung des Bohmischen Majeslaisoricfes, 116.

INTRODUCTION. XIX
aristocracy. By the Eoyal Charter which was extorted from the
falling monarch complete liberty of conscience was accorded to
every Bohemian, from the noble to the serf, who adhered either to
the Bohemian confession of 1575, or who belonged to the society of
the Bohemian brothers. But, as in England, liberty of conscience
was not held to imply liberty of worship. On the Eoyal domains
indeed Catholic and Protestant alike were to be allowed to build
as many churches as they pleased. But the lords of the soil were
not inclined to make the same concession to their dependants.
They were themselves to be free from all restraint, but they were
to continue as before to regulate the public exercise of the religion of
their vassals at their pleasure.
In many respects the principle thus adopted in Bohemia was similar
to the cnjus regio ejus religio which prevailed in Germany. But
there was one important - difference. The German Princes had
virtually become territorial sovereigns, and had taken upon them
selves the duties with the responsibilities of sovereignty. The
Bohemian nobles were still landowners and nothing more. Their
estates were too small, and Constantinople was too near, to render
feasible such a change in their position as would place them on an
equal footing with an Elector of Saxony or a Landgrave of Hesse.
A King of Bohemia must still be retained, but the King was one
who was far more opposed to the nobility on every possible point
upon which they could come into collision than James II. was to
the English people in 1688, or than Charles X. was to the French
people in 1830.
Under such circumstances a revolution was inevitable. Either
the nobility would set aside the King, or the King would beat
down the nobility. At first sight the former contingency might
have appeared unavoidable. Three-fourths of the population, and
all the military forces of the kingdom, were at the disposal of the

XX INTRODUCTION.
Protestants. They could count on the warm sympathy, if not
upon the active aid, of the great landowners in all the other States
of which the Austrian dominions were composed. But all this
would avail them little unless they could ripen in a moment into
wise and forecasting statesmen, and could bow their heads to the
stern yoke of discipline and selfdenial by which nations are founded;
unless, in a word, men, with all and more than all the failings of the
English Cavaliers, could learn to display the virtues of the burghers
of Leyden and the Ironsides of Cromwell.
They had already chosen the field of battle upon which the
conflict was to be waged. They had suddenly discovered that the
tacit permission by which the Eoyal Charter had accorded the
right of controlling the public worship of vassals to the landowners,
did not apply to the holders of ecclesiastical domains. These, they
argued, were in a position dependent upon the Crown, and the
towns upon their domains were therefore to. be considered as royal
towns, and, as . such, freed from the control of the lords of the
soil in religious matters. Matthias on the other hand resisted this
interpretation of the Charter, and apparently with justice." It was
indeed a point of vital importance from a political as well as from
a religious point of view. The ecclesiastical domains were almost
the last supports on which his throne rested, and to be deprived
of these was tantamount to surrendering his throne at once to the
nobility. In 1617 a golden opportunity was offered to the Estates of
fighting their battle on favourable ground. Ferdinand of Styria
was presented to them for their acceptance as their future King.
The terms in which the proposition was couched were sufficient
» That the Protestants were not warranted in their appeal to the Charter, seems to be
proved conclusively by Professor Gindely. Gesckichte der Bohmischen Bruder, ii. 406
and 507, note 105.

- INTRODUCTION. XXI
to show that the throne was now to be claimed by hereditary right
in virtue of the abolition of their electoral privileges by Ferdinand
I. after the rebellion of 1547. As there was much to be said
against the validity of that abolition, no better ground for oppo
sition could be afforded. To claim the acknowledgment of their
right to a free election, or to refuse to elect the candidate pro
posed to them unless concessions were made with respect to the
ecclesiastical domains, was the course prescribed to them by the
simplest rules of political tactics.
Yet knowing as they did what Ferdinand was, and thinking far
worse of him than he in reality deserved, the Bohemian nobles threw
away the chance which was thus offered to them. In spite of the
opposition of a small minority, they accepted him for their Sove
reign, without demanding anything more than a general promise
to maintain their privileges and to preserve the Eoyal Charter,
to which, as they were well aware, he affixed a signification totally
different from their own.
As might have been expected, the Catholics derived fresh courage
from the election. At Braunau the Abbot locked up the Protestant
church; and at Klostergrabe the Archbishop of Prague ordered
another church, which was in the course of erection, to be demo
lished. The news was received with indignation by the Protestant
nobility. The men who had done nothing, and foreseen nothing
at the time when foresight would have availed them, burst into
fury at what was nothing more than the natural consequence
of Ferdinand's election. They flocked to Prague to discuss their
grievances in common with .the representatives of the towns.
Matthias ordered the meeting to be suspended. The deputies of
the towns were inclined to obey the mandate, but the nobles were
unwilling to draw back. Armed with pistols, and followed by an

XXli INTRODUCTION.
excited mob, they made their way, with Count Thurn at their
head, into the room in which were seated the members of the
Eegency to which the government had been entrusted during the
absence of Matthias. Was it by their advice, they asked, that the
meeting had been suspended. Dissatisfied with the answers which
they received, they seized upon Martinitz and Slawata, the most
obnoxious members of the Eegency, and hurled them, together
with their secretary Fabricius, from the window. By a strange
fortune, which pious Catholics have been accustomed to attribute
to the interposition of Him without whose permission not even a
sparrow falls to the ground, the three men who had been preci
pitated from a height of little less than eighty feet were able to
crawl away from the spot on which they fell, and not a single life
was lost.
It was a wild deed of vengeance. Precedents of defenestration,
as it was termed, were indeed to be found in Bohemian history.
But it is not thus that successful revolutions are commenced.
Matthias looked anxiously around for help. Austria and Hun
gary, Moravia and Silesia, were, as he knew, honeycombed with
dissaffection. The Duke of Bavaria, the politic Maximilian, refused
to endanger his safety by aiding what seemed to be a falling cause.
Spain sent a paltry sum of 100,000 ducats, and talked of sending
some day 200,000 more.
The maintenance of the position which had been gained by the
Bohemians required other qualities than those which were needed
for a raid upon the unarmed Eegents. Statesmanlike wisdom and
•ready submission to discipline could alone bring them safely through
the trial which was before them. At home it would be necessary
to submit to hardships and privations, to give discipline to the
army and regularity to the government, to prove, in a word, by
action that they were capable of instituting a political organization

INTRODUCTION. XX111
which could secure order, even though Ferdinand and the Jesuits
had no share in it.
It was a difficult task. But it was still more difficult to watch
the tides of. German and European opinion, and to use them as
aids to the desired end.
Two different tendencies of thought were the moving agents of
the men of the past century, and their influences were still living.
On the one hand there had been the spirit of religious fellowship,
the conviction that agreement in religion formed the strongest
bond of union, and that it called upon all to suffer and to act on
behalf of their co-religionists in every part of the world. On the
other hand there was the belief in the Divine authority of govern
ment against intriguing priests and presbyters, and the conviction
that rebellion was in itself an evil. In Germany, at least, the two
ideas were divided from one another almost with the accuracy of
a geographical distribution. The Lutherans of the North, living
far from the sound of strife, and never catching sight of a Eoman
Catholic priest from one year's end to another, were apt to think
lightly of the fears and difficulties of the Protestants of the South,
and to preach submission to the existing governments as the one
remedy for the evils of the time. At their head stood John George,
the Elector of Saxony. He spent his days in hunting, and his
nights in deep carouses. -If he hated anything at all, in the
midst of the easy life which he led, it was war and Calvinism.
The politics of his family had always been Imperialist. It was by
the favour of one Emperor that his great uncle, Maurice, had
become an Elector. It was by the favour of another Emperor that
his brother and himself had prosecuted their claims to the Duchy
of Cleves. Yet it would be unfair to speak of his Imperialism as
if it had been altogether personal and selfish. It resulted in part
from the old feeling of attachment to the time-honoured institutions

XXIV INTRODUCTION.
of the Empire, and from a belief which he shared with the Catholic
Princes that in them might still be found a shelter against the
anarchy which appeared likely to set in if nothing better than the
law of the strongest was to be invoked in the disputes which arose
between the members of the Empire. Nor was he without a share
in that weariness of religious strife which thirty years later obtained
a public recognition at the Peace of Westphalia.
Very different was the position of the Southern Protestants, who,
with the young Elector Palatine at their head, formed the main
strength of the Union. Wedged in between Catholic Bavaria and
the Franconian Bishoprics on the one side, and the Ecclesiastical
States upon the Ehine on the other, they lived in daily appre
hension of danger. Their talk was ever of war, and in their fami
liarity with it, it lost all its terrors. Schemes of aggression which
would have revolted the common sense of the Northern Germans
were lightly talked of in the South, where they appeared to be
nothing more than the necessary means of defence against an inevi
table attack. Of all men Frederick was most unfitted to preside
over the fortunes of such a people. Too thoughtful to allow the
world's courses to pass unheeded around him, and too much in
earnest to be restrained from sacrificing himself for that which he
conceived to be the good of his people and his Church, he was
utterly deficient . in the wisdom which alone can guide great
enterprises to a 'successful end. He never knew exactly what it
was he wanted, and he was unable to understand either the means
by which his objects were to be accomplished, or the real nature
and strength of the obstacles which stood in his way.
At once there was a divergence between the Courts of Dresden
and Heidelberg as to the course to be adopted with respect to the
Bohemian revolution. The simple answer of John George to one
who asked him what he intended to do was, " Help to put out the

INTRODUCTION. XXV
fire." His offer of mediation was thankfully accepted by Matthias-,
and, as the Elector Palatine expressed his readiness to join him, he
was able for some time to flatter himself that his object would be
attained. It is obvious that there were two objects, either of which the
Bohemians and their friends might propose to themselves.
They might aim at a confirmation of the Eoyal Charter by Fer
dinand, accompanied by an explanation of it in the sense which
they themselves affixed to it.
Or, on the other hand, they might resolve to accept nothing
less than the dethronement of Ferdinand and the election of a new
King, who would be a puppet in the hands of the Bohemian aris
tocracy. The first policy no doubt had its disadvantages. It left the King
and the nation still in mutual opposition. It left many questions
unsettled which would have, perhaps at no distant day, to be re
opened. But it had one great advantage, that it was attainable.
It would unite Lutherans and Calvinists, Saxony and the Pala
tinate, in its defence. An extended religious freedom, guaranteed
by all Protestant Germany, was not to despised, and how effectual
such a support would have been is proved by the amount of
religious liberty retained by Silesia, even after the catastrophe of
1620, upon the sole guarantee of Saxony.
But if this policy was the best which could be adopted at Prague,
how much more was there to recommend it at Heidelberg. It
could not be long before the question of the succession to the
Empire would have to be settled. That Ferdinand would be chosen
was almost a matter of certainty. The only question was whether
the election should be preceded by a settlement of the disputes
which had so long separated the Princes of the two religions; and
the only real difficulty which stood in the way of such a settlement
CAMD. SOC. d

XXVI INTRODUCTION.
was the disunion amongst the Protestants caused by the not un
founded belief which prevailed at Dresden that Frederick was
careless of exposing Germany to the horrors of war.
Frederick was hopelessly undecided. On the one hand he put
himself forward as a mediator. On the other hand he accepted the
offer made to him by the Duke of Savoy (p. 4), the restless Charles
Emanuel, of some troops under the command of that unprincipled
adventurer Count Mansfeld, and sent them secretly to the assistance
of the Bohemians. His confidants, the Margrave of Anspach and
Prince Christian of Anhalt, went further still. They opened nego
tiations with the Duke with a view to gain his support. There
would be little doubt, they said (p. 5, note a), that Charles Emanuel
could be elected to the Empire. Frederick was to be King of
Bohemia, and a special onslaught was to be made upon the Ecclesi
astics in Germany. At first these schemes were kept from Fred.
erick's knowledge. But he soon grew accustomed to listen to them
without showing any distaste. A few months afterwards the sharing
of the spoil was confidentially discussed at Turin. The Duke
thought that he should like to have the kingdom of Bohemia for
himself. Frederick, if he pleased, might be King of Hungary.
He might annex Alsace to the Palatinate; and, if circumstances
proved favourable, he might even lay claim to a portion of Austria
for himself." That such plans should have been formed at Heidel
berg may serve to explain the distrust of Frederick which was
entertained at the Court of Dresden.
It was with no little anxiety that the Spanish Government
watched the progress of events in Bohemia. They were anxious to
uphold the authority of Matthias, and at the same time they shrunk
from exposing their ruined finances to a European war. In this
difficulty they were eager to discover what part England would
a Londorp, Acta Publica, iii. 596—621.

INTRODUCTION. XXV11
take, and hints were thrown out to Cottington, the English Agent
at Madrid (p. 4, note a), that the King of Spain would be glad
" that his Majesty should interpose himself for the accommodating
of the business of Bohemia."
The policy of James towards Germany had been on the whole a
wise one. He had entered into a treaty with the Union, engaging
himself to defend the Protestant States in case of attack, and had
discountenanced all aggressive projects on the nart of his son-in-
law.* But when he received from the Bohemians a request for
" The following is the letter which he wrote to Frederick on the subject of the
approaching election (State Papers, Germany,March 28' 1618) :
April 7,
Monsieur mon fils,
We do take it as an assured testimony of your love and respect to us that, as before
in other things concerning the estate of the Empire you have made us acquainted with
your proceeding, so now in this matter of the Electorall Dyett you desire to have our
advise for that which shall concerne your selfe or the Empire. What may be the chiefest
scope of that assembly is not yet oertainlye knowne to us, but as wee have perceaved by
former advertisements from your self, and likewise from other places, wee take the end of
it to be the eleccion of the King of Bohemia to be King of the Romanes; wherein, for so
much as concerneth you and our frends in the Empire, wee are of opinion that the best
way to be taken is to avoid any present eleccion , as a matter not being of necessitie during
the Emperor's life, and thereby to wynne time and to discerne further into the scope and '
proceeding of that familie in this warre of Italie, wherein, perhapps, if a principall partie
interessed be elected to such a place as a King of Romanes holdeth, the Empire may be
accidentally and unnecessarily engaged. This wee hold the safest and fittest for the pre
sent condition of things, if you shall find such concurrency therein as that it may be
effected, and without any speciall offence to yourself alone, if, notwithstanding your
endeavours, it cannot be avoided. But, if you shall find tbeire partye so made as that
the eleccion cannot be delayed, but will take place, in the second place our opinion is
that, because it is very likely that to settle the Empire by this eleccion in their familye
they will not sticke to yeald satisfaccion to those who may hinder it, that in giving your
consent you make as good conditions for your self and the Princes of the Union, and for
the common cause of religion, as you can ; wherein, because the particulars are better
knowne to you then to us, wee must referre them to your judgement and discretion and
the advise you shall receave from other Princes interessed in the same cause.

INTRODUCTION.

money to enable them to resist persecution (p. 1), and when he was
informed by his son-in-law (p. 6) that hostilities had already com
menced, and that there was every probability that they would not
be confined to Bohemia alone, it was absolutely necessary for him
to take some decided resolution in the course which he was to adopt.
The determination to which he came was to accept the King of
Spain's proposal, and to put himself forward as a mediator. On
the one hand (p. 13) he was ready to assist the Bohemians if they
were really persecuted for their religion. On the other hand he
was unwilling to give them any countenance if they were obstinate
in refusing just concessions.
The whole policy of James turned out so ill, and he so thoroughly
mismanaged everything that he had to do with, that it is worth
while asking whether his errors arose from his general conception
of the situation, or from his inability to work out successfully a
policy which had been rightly chosen. And if we test his
decision, not by any theories about intervention or noninter
vention which are generally only the passing forms into which
the partial experience of a particular age is apt to throw itself, but
by the broad principle that it is the duty of a nation, as it is the duty
of an individual, to do all the possible good which can be effected
without such evil consequences as shall outweigh the good that is
done, we can hardly avoid coming to the conclusion that his view
of the case was the right one. That his horror of the wickedness
and criminality of a war of religion, a war in which Catholic and
Protestant were to be ranged against one another through the
whole length and breadth of Europe, was not an unfounded fear can
never be doubted by any one who has the faintest conception of
what the Thirty Years War really was. Even if we suppose that
Matthias and Ferdinand would have steadily refused to yield more
than they were ready to promise already, namely, the exact observation

INTRODUCTION.

of the Eoyal Charter according to its literal interpretation, can any
one maintain that the miseries of the Thirty Years War would not
be too high a price to pay, simply to secure to certain Bohemians
who happened to live on the ecclesiastical domains the right, not of
liberty of conscience, which they possessed already, but of liberty of
worship, a right which no Protestant Government had ever thought
of conceding to their Catholic subjects? Nor is it possible to allow
any force to the argument that if James had declared himself in
favour of the Bohemians the danger of war would have been
averted, because the Catholic powers would at once have given way.
Not only would Saxony have been thrown as decidedly as in 1620
into the opposite scale, but there can be little doubt that such a
war as that which Frederick and his advisers contemplated, a war
of aggression directed upon the ecclesiastical territories on the Ehine,
as well as upon Vienna and Milan, would have called down the
power of France upon their heads. It does not follow that because
at a time when the Imperialists were dominant and when the
political danger to France had come into the foreground, Eichelieu
was able to lead the nation into a hostile attitude against Spain and
the Emperor, France would not have joined in defence of the
Ecclesiastical principalities if they had been seriously menaced by a
European coalition in 1618. Sir Edward Herbert's dispatches
written in the following winter, and the conduct of the French
ambassadors during the negotiations which preceded the treaty of
Ulm, are alike evidence that sympathy with the German Catholics
was very strong in France, and that it might easily have been roused
to fury by the sight of a war such as that which, with such allies
as he had, James would have had to wage if he was to fight at all.
James's real fault then was not in the conception but in the
execution of his policy. His ignorance of men and things led him
to underrate the difficulty of the work before him, and his vanity

XXX INTRODUCTION.
led him to overrate his own power of bringing men to his views by
the enunciation of a few truisms. The task which he had imposed
upon himself was indeed one which demanded all the abilities of a
William III. He had to effect a union between the discordant
Courts of Heidelberg and Dresden, to divine the secret machinations
of his son-in-law, and to induce him to act in concert with John
George in a policy which was not his own : and then, when this was
effected, to bring the united weight of Protestant Europe to bear alike
upon the proud Bohemian aristocracy and upon their indignant
sovereign. It is not likely that in such a work as this even the
ablest diplomatist would have succeeded. But it is certain that if
James did not mean to attempt this he had better have done nothing,
and what was of greater importance still, to have made it clearly
understood that he meant to do nothing.
What he did do, was simply fatuous. He proposed to send an
ambassador to mediate, without knowing what the merits of
the dispute were, and without the most distant idea what were
the feelings and passions of the men who were to be called upon
to submit to the award of this unexpected umpire. The only
comment worthy of this scheme for settling the great controversy of
the age with the ease with which the Court of King's Bench
settled questions of disputed property is to be found in the few calm
and contemptuous lines which Gondomar penned (p. 27) when he
heard of the proposal.
The next matter for consideration was the selection of an
ambassador. At first the King's choice rested upon Sir Henry
Wotton (p. 51), but the appointment was almost immediately revoked
in favour of Viscount Doncaster.
Doncaster, the Earl of Carlisle of later years, the " Helioo-abalus
Hay " of Mr. Carlyle, has been hitherto almost exclusively known
as an extravagant spendthrift, as the inventor of the notorious

INTRODUCTION. XXXI
" double suppers," and as the husband of the famous Lady Carlisle
of the Court of Charles I. The present volume presents him in 'a
different character. It will not indeed show him as a statesman or
a diplomatist. But it will allow him to exhibit the powers which
enabled him to retain the favour of two sovereigns and what was far
more difficult, the favour of their favourite. If his conversation was
at all like his letters, he must indeed have been a most pleasing
companion. No other despatches of the time form such agreeable
reading. The ease of the perfect gentleman, the ready tact of the
finished man of the world shine through every line. Nor was it
merely, to the great and powerful that his politeness was shewn.
Two letters of his which have been preserved in the Archives of
Venice, but which are of a date too late to be included in the
present volume, exhibit his courtesy in the most favourable colours.
After taking leave of the Emperor at Gratz in November 1619, he
made up his mind to employ a few weeks in a visit to Venice. On
the frontier at Pontebba he was stopped at the custom house, and
informed that, as he had come from a place where the plague was
not extinct, he could not be allowed to proceed. There are probably
few tourists at the present day who would nourish very kindly
feelings towards the official who might have caused them a similar
disappointment. Doncaster's first thought was to write to the
Venetian ambassabor at Vienna, begging him to see that the officer
suffered no harm from doing his duty.
If the work of mediation had really been what James supposed it
to be, a mere arbitration between two parties who were both ready
to refer their dispute to the English ambassador, Doncaster's
courtesy and tact would have stood him in good stead. As it was,
there was nothing to be hoped for him. What James really needed
was a shrewd impartial spectator who would penetrate the real
intentions of the various parties in Germany, and would bring him

XXX11 INTRODUCTION.
home a report which would enable him to see clearly what was
possible, as well as what was advisable in his future proceedings.
But to a character of this kind Doncaster had no pretensions what
ever. Like all the Scotchmen of his day he was opposed to the
Spanish alliance, and his utter want of those powers which enable
some men to divine as if by instinct the truth which is obscured by
the jarring passions of men, would be certain to throw him at once
into the arms of Frederick and his ministers. He would see with
the eyes and think with the thoughts of the Court of Heidelbero-.
If he had any idea of impartiality when he landed at Calais, he
would be a thorough partizan before he left the Palatinate.
We are left to conjecture the causes which led to Doncaster's
appointment. Buckingham's favour no doubt had something to do
with it, for Doncaster was evidently on the best possible terms with
Buckingham, who had, ever since his quarrel with the Howards in
the preceding spring, been drawing nearer to the anti-Spanish
party. But it is not impossible that James may have also been influenced
by news which reached him from Spain. Preparations were every
where in hand in the Spanish dockyards for fitting out a large fleet,
and it was known that the fleet was to carry a considerable body of
troops. The Spaniards protested that the fleet was destined for an
attack upon Algiers, and from documents still preserved at Simancas
it would appear that, officially at least, an attack upon Algiers which
should anticipate the unwelcome assistance of the English contin
gent which James had offered to send against the Barbary pirates,
was in reality in contemplation. But the Venetians, scarcely
recovered from the shock of the Bedmar conspiracy in the preceding
summer, believed that the expedition was intended for an assault upon
Venice, in order to make the captured city a base of operations
against the Bohemians. They accordingly appealed to James for

INTRODUCTION. XXX111
help. James, who had no scruples about going to war for the
defence of an actually existing government, showed unusual activity.
He ordered the fleet which was intended to co-operate with the
Spaniards against Algiers to be at once got ready for sea, and pro
posed to the Dutch that they should join him with a considerable
number of ships, and that the combined fleet should sail with secret
orders to turn against their Spanish allies if they saw any ap
pearance of their making sail in the direction of the Gulf of Venice-
This offer was declined by the Dutch, who were unwilling to
co-operate with the Spaniards under any circumstances whatever.
Before James had time to reconsider his position, information
reached England that the Spanish preparations had ceased entirely.
Doncaster's appointment therefore was at least coincident with
the rise of a feeling against Spain in the mind of James. It took
place almost immediately upon the conclusion of the first mission to
England of the Baron of Dohna, and upon the renewal of the de
fensive treaty with the Union. At the same time Dohna's hints as
to the possibility of his master being elected as King by the Bohe
mians were at once checked by James, (p. 33, note a) though he
seems to have said something about the possibility of his recognizing
such an election, if it were made under circumstances which gave it
a legitimate character."
Doncaster's departure was delayed by the serious illness of the
King, and by the news of the death of the Emperor, till the
beginning of May. Before he left England, Sir Isaac Wake was
despatched to Turin with orders to confer with the Elector Palatine
on his way. The object of his mission was to discover whether the
project of raising the Duke of Savoy to the Imperial throne was in
a The actual words used were the subject of controversy between James and his son-in-
law in January 1621, and cannot be recovered with any degree of certainty.
CAMD. SOC. e

XXXIV INTRODUCTION.
reality feasible, and to beg him to consider (p. 109) whether he had
sufficient strength to carry out the enterprise which he was reported
to be meditating. Wake found that the Duke, who cared far more
about annexing Milan or Genoa to his own dominions than he did
about the sufferings of the Bohemians, was not inclined to take any
further steps to put himself forward as a candidate for the Imperial
throne, and that the long intrigue had come to nothing.
Doncaster's instructions so far as they related to the affairs of
Germany have not been preserved. Those which refer to Bohemia
are now printed for the first time, (p. 64,) but they have only been
found in a Spanish translation.
The paper consists of two parts. The first portion is a watery
abstract of the Bohemians' own Apology, of which the writer, either
from ignorance or in the hope of making out a better case for them
than they could for themselves, has thrown his statements into such
confusion that it sometimes requires considerable trouble to disen
tangle the thread of his narrative. Its ingenuousness may be inferred
from the fact that the only mention of the defenestration is contained
in the statement (p. 68) that the Bohemians had "proceeded against
two of the principal men of the contrary faction, namely, Slawata
and Martinitz, whom, as disturbers of the public peace, they had
deprived of their offices." The second part contains James's own
hints for the pacification of Bohemia. To appreciate their ridi
culous absurdity, it is only necessary to read them. They could
only proceed from the same man who had attempted to put an end to
the fierce feuds which raged between his Scottish nobles by the
simple process of inviting them to shake hands with one another in
his presence.
Of Doncaster's mission it is not necessary to speak further. All
that is known of it, so far as relates to the time prior to the election
of Ferdinand on the IJ-th of August, will be found in the present

INTRODUCTION. XXXV
volume. It was predestined to failure from the first. But, even if it
had ever had a chance of succeeding, much could not be expected from
the man whose complimentary language inadvertently characterised
his own statemanship, when he informed (p. 132) the Elector Palatine
that he had been sent " as a white paper to receive impression from
his Highness," and whose amusing report of the effect of the Duke
of Bavaria's civilities upon him (p. 146) shows that he was equally
capable of being used as a sheet of white paper by others.

CONTENTS.

1618.
PAGE
i. The Estates of Bohemia sub utrdque to James I. June j-6 . 1
n. Francis Cottington to Sir Thomas Lake [extract] ^°^2^ . 3
m. Sir Isaac Wake to James I. [extract] July ^| .4
iv. Frederick V. Elector Palatine to James I. September ^ . 6
v. Francis Cottington to Sir Robert Naunton, Sept. ~7 . .9
vi. Francis Cottington to Sir Thomas Lake [extract] Se^'t2j! . 12
vn. The Marquis of Buckingham to the Count of Gondomar
[extract] !^?  13
vm. Frederick V. Elector Palatine to James I. Oct. ^g . .14
ix. Francis Cottington to Sir Dudley Carleton [extract] Oct. ^8 16
x. The Estates of Bohemia sub utrdque to James I. ^j^ . 17
xi. Sir Isaac Wake to Sir Eobert Naunton [extract] -S^i4 . 21
xn. The Marquis of Buckingham to Francis Cottington ? Nov. . 21
xm. Francis Cottington to Sir Robert Naunton [extract] Dec. ~ 25
• xiv. Francis Cottington to the Marquis of Buckingham Dec. - . 26
1619.
xv. Consulta by the Count of Gondomar Jan. ,-, . 27
14
xvi. Francis Cottington to the Marquis of Buclringham [extract]

Jan. I

32

CONTENTS.

xvn. Sir Robert Naunton to Sir Dudley Carleton [extract] Jan. || 32
xvm. Frederick V. Elector Palatine to James I. $^4-2 .
Feb. 1
xix. Don Juan de Ciriza to Francis Cottington f^ .

xx. The Dutch Commissioners in England to the States Ge
neral [extract] ^f ....
xxi. Francis Cottington to the Marquis of Buckingham [ex-
tract] *£» . . .
xxn. The Dutch Commissioners in England to the States
General Feb. ^
xxin. Sir Robert Naunton to Sir Dudley Carleton [extract]
Feb.i . . . .
xxiv. Frederick V. Elector Palatine to James I. Feb. k10
xxv. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sir Robert Naunton [extract]
Feb.L2 ¦ • •
xxvi. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sir Robert Naunton [extract]
Feb.g 
xxvn. Sir Thomas "Wynn to Sir Dudley Carleton [extract]
Feb.l| • •
xxviii. Baron Christopher Dohna to Sir Dudley Carleton [extract]
Feb. 23
March 5 "
xxix. Instructions to Sir Henry Wotton March j-
xxx. Sir Henry Wotton to James I. March j-6
xxxi. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sir Robert Naunton [extract]
March ^ . .
xxxn. Frederick V. Elector Palatine to James#I. March ^

22

xxxm. Frederick V. Elector Palatine to James I. March
xxxiv. Sir Thomas Edmondes to Sir Dudley Carleton [extract]
March §-?••••••
xxxv. James I. to the Estates of Bohemia March ^0 • 57

34 36
38 3940
4242 43 44 4545 46 4851 525557

XXXviii CONTENTS.

xxxvi. Frederick V. Elector Palatine to James I. ^pru 1
xxxvu. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sir Robert Naunton [extract]
March 30
AprU 9
xxxviii. The Estates of Bohemia sub utrdque to James I. April y2
xxxix. Sir John Finett to Sir George Calvert [extract] April ^
xl. Instructions to Viscount Doncaster April ^
xli. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Dudley Carleton April ^7
xm. John Chamberlain to Sir Dudley Carleton [extract]
April i-J 
xliii. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sir Robert Naunton [extract]
April 23
May 3
xliv. Lord Danvers to Sir Dudley Carleton [extract] A^27
xlv. James I. to the States General of the Netherlands J"...

9
19
10

58 6061 6364
74 75 75
7676

May 10
xlvi. William Trumbull to Sir Robert Naunton [extract]
May! .....
xlvii. The Estates of Bohemia sub utrdque to James I. May y-s
xlviii. Viscount Doncaster to Sir George Calvert May ^6
xlix. Nathaniel Brent to Sir Dudley Carleton [extract] May £8 81
l. Sir George Calvert to Sir Dudley Carleton [extract]
May^8
li. Sir George Calvert to Sir Dudley Carleton May
lii. Viscount Doncaster to Sir George Calvert May 20
liii. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Dudley Carleton May ^
liv. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Dudley Carleton May -^
lv. Sir Isaac Wake to Sir Robert Naunton May i? .
lvi. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Robert Naunton May i?
lvii. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Dudley Carleton May ¦

77
78 79

81 82 8384 868789 91

lviii. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sir' George Calvert 92
lix. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Robert Naunton 94
lx. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Dudley Carleton 97
lxi. Sir George Calvert to Sir Dudley Carleton 97
lxii. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Dudley Carleton 98
lxiii. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Robert Naunton 99
lxiv. Sir Isaac Wake to the Marquis of Buckingham 107
lxv. Answer given by the Elector Palatine, &c. to Sir Henry
Wotton . . . . .112
lxvi. Philip III. to James I. . . . .114
lxvii. The Princes of the Union to James I. . . 115
lxviii. Viscount Doncaster to James I. . 118
lxix. Viscount Doncaster to the Marquis of Buckingham' 120
lxx. Memoir given by the Elector Palatine to Viscount Don
caster ..... 121
lxxi. Viscount Doncaster to the Elector of Saxony . 127
lxxii. Viscount Doncaster to the Count of Ohate . 128
lxxiii. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Robert Naunton . 129
lxxiv. Frederick V. Elector Palatine to Sir Isaac Wake 139
lxxv. Charles Prince of Wales to Viscount Doncaster 140
lxxvi. Sir Isaac Wake to the Marquis of Buckingham 140
lxxvii. Maximilian Duke of Bavaria to James I. 143
lxxviii. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Robert Naunton 144
lxxix, John George Elector of Saxony to Viscount Doncaster 149

lxxx. James I. to the Princes of the Union 150
lxxxi. James I. to Frederick V. Elector Palatine 152
lxxxii. Ferdinand II. King of Hungary and Bohemia, to James I. 154
lxxxiii. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Robert Naunton 156
lxxxiv. Credentials given by Viscount Doncaster to W. Norry 166
lxxxv. Instructions given by Viscount Doncaster to W. Norry 166
lxxxvi. Sir Isaac Wake to Sir Robert Naunton 167
lxxxvii. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Robert Naunton 174
lxxxviii. The Baron of Meggau to Viscount Doncaster 179
lxxxix. Viscount Doncaster to the Count of Onate 180
xc. Answer given to Viscount Doncaster on behalf of Fer
dinand II. 181
xci. Memoir delivered to Viscount Doncaster on behalf of
Ferdinand II. 182
xcn. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Robert Naunton 188
xcm. Maurice Landgrave of Hesse Cassel to James I. 203
xciv. George Frederick Margrave of Baden- Durlach to James I. 204
xcv. Viscount Doncaster to Sir Robert Naunton 205

LETTEES AND OTHEE DOCUMENTS.

No. I.
THE ESTATKS OP BOHEMIA SUB UTRAQUE TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Prague, June -j66, 1618.]
Serenissime et Potentissime Eex et Domine, Domine Clementis-
sime. Quanquam Vestras Regiae Majestati quid diebus praeteritis in hoc
Kegno Bohemias contigerit, aliunde innotuisse non ambigimus;
nihilo-minus rem, ut gesta est, plenius eandem per literas hasce
edocere, ex usu nostro judicaviinus. Quod dum facimus, nolumus
Majtem Vest™ latere, ab annis compluribus nos solius religionis odio,
a popularibus nostris Pontificiis (scelerata ilia Jesuitaram secta autore
et virulentorum eam in rem consiliorum subministratrice,) misere
afflictos fuisse. Cui rei medendse, annis abhinc octo a Divo Rodol-
pho privilegium pro libero religionis exercitio impetravimus, et
majoris securitatis ergo cum Pontificiis Ordinibus pacti sumus, ne
quis alteri convitiaretur aut minimum offenderet. Sed neque sic
nobis satis cavimus. Nam cum prsedicationibus turn scriptis evul-
gatis factio ilia Jesuitica et eorum complices nos et religionem nos-
tram libere proscindere, execrari, et diris devovere, dicto privilegio
peregrinum sensum affingere, subditos Eegios et Eeginse necnon ec-
clesiasticos et ordinum religionis pontificlae fructu ejusdem privare,
quin imo et Regi nostro quod sine auctoritate Pontificis Romani
(cui nullum in nos, longe minus in Regem nostrum est imperium,)
CAMD. SOC. B

2 LETTEES ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
libertatem religionis nobis largitus sit, litem movere non sunt veriti.
Et cum ex voto ipsorum res non succederet, aliam viam sunt in-
gressi, omnia vi et fraude agere, Regio nomine [. . . . tem]plaa
Evangelicorum claudere, recens extructa demoliri, sup[. . . .]a vin-
cula conjicere, defensores Consistorii et Academies nostrae prasfectos,
ne intercederent, minis et rescriptis Regiis absterrere, nostrates in
dignitatibus constitutos ob religionem loco movere, et alios homines
leves sui dogmatis ipsis sufficere, aliorum cervicibus, aliorum fortunis
insidiari, et tantum non coelum terras miscere.
Nee religionem solam turbare ipsis satis fuit, sed progressi longius
regimen politicum invadere, paucis aliquot Pontificiis nostris et
patrias juratis hostibus, fascibus Regni demandatis, per eos, nos
Evangelicos Ordines, cum Regno hoc, funditus evertere et pessum-
dare sunt moliti. Quae omnia posteaquam apud nos perpenderemus
altius, et in perniciem nostram et patriae conjuratum esse animad-
verteremus, necessarium duximus, extremis malis extrema adhibere
remedia. Quocirca, duos ex illis qui rerum potiebantur e loco quo
abusi Regem et Regnum perdere sategerunt, pro merito ipsorum,
per fenestram in fossas arcis Pragensis prascipites egimus. Jesuitas
vero homines sacerrimos, undiquaque ex hoc Regno, in aeternam
pacis et concordiae inter nos status Evangelicos cum Pontificiis stabi-
liendas ergo proscripsimus : Necnon Cassareas Majestatis et patriae ab
omni vi hostili defendendas gratia, cum domesticum turn stipen-
diarium militem cogere decrevimus. Et cum res hsec maxime reli
gionem tangat, sacri Romani Imperii Electores et Principes Unitos,
si quis ideo se nobis hostem declarare vellet, de auxiliis sollicita-
vimus. Cum autem et de Regia vestra Maj estate certam spem
conceperimus, eam pro amore quo erga religionem orthodoxam et
purum Dei cultum accensa est, nobis uti necessitas urserit opitulan
non dedignaturam ; Ea propter submisse precamur, ne Reg. V°
Majas sinistris de nobis rumoribus fidem adhibeat: Quia si quis in
nos ob religionem hostili animo insurgere voluerit, ex Regio suo
a The paper is torn where these omissions occur.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 3
aerario nobis certam summam pecuniae (Deo rebus nostris favente) a
nobis reddendam m[utu]are,a et tanquam defensor fidei nos tutari, et
omni dementia et favore suo^ prosequi clementissime dignetur. Id
quod nos devotissime erga Regiam Majtem Ves*™ demereri stude-
bimus: Et Regiae Vestras Majestati salutem longasvum, successus in
rebus gerendis prosperos, et perpetuam ex hoste victoriam a Deo ter
Opt. Max. exoraturi sumus. His Reg. Vam Matem cum serenissima
Regina, et inclyta prosapia, atque [subject]isa ejusdem universis,
clientelae DEI omnipotentis supplices commendamus. Datum in
Arce Pragensi xvi. Junii stylo novo. Anno M.DC.xviii.
Regiae Vestras Majes'1
devotissimi
Barones, Equites, Pragenses, Cutteni, et casteros
Civitates, omnes tres Ordines inclyti Regni
Bohemias, Evangelici sub utraque.b

No. II.
FRANCIS COTTINGTON c TO SIR THOMAS LAKE.d [Extract.]
[State Papers. Spain.] [Madrid, June25' 1618.]
July 5,
The stirrs in Bohemia were speedily advertised hither, and with
it they are here nott a little trobled ; as they who alreadie grone
under the excessive charge and expence which they are dayly at for
» The paper is torn where these omissions occur.
" " Prague, Cuttenherg, and the other cities," was the official phrase for the royal
towns. To this letter no answer was returned.
c Agent at Madrid.
d Secretary of State.

4 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
the subsistance of those Princes of Austria, and espetially this King
of Bohemia.51

No. III.
SIR ISAAC WAKE >> TO JAMES I. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Savoy.] [Turin, July JJ, 1618.]
That your Majestie may further see the devotion this Prince hath
unto your service and the desire wherewith he is inflamed to requite
in part the obligations he doth owe unto your Majestie for your
royall protecting his person and howse; as sone as hee understood
that the affaires of Germany did beginne to be imbroyled, and that
some dangerous innovation was threatened in those parts, he did
give me in charge to dispatch a currier expressly unto the Prince
Pallatine, and to make offer unto him of two thousand men payd
and defrayed, under the conduct of the Count Ernest Mansfelt, who
hath express order from this Duke to serve the Prince Elector with
his Regiment wheresoever his Highness shall be pleased to employ
him for the defence of the publique libertye,
It doth fall out very happily that these troopes are at this present
within three days jorny of the Palatinate, as having marched out of
the state of Berne shortly after the restitution of Vercelli, with pur-
. " Upon the receipt of certain letters from Mr. Cottington to the Lord Digby and Sir
Thomas Lake, bearing date the 9th of August, 1618, "signifying how willing that kinge
would be that his Ma* should interpose himself for the accommodating of the busines of
Bohemia, His Majesty commaunded Mr. Secretary Naunton to write to Mr. Cottington
that his MaUe could be content to employe himself therein so as he might be directly as
sured that it was a thinge hartely desired by the Kinge of Spayne."
The 3rd of September " his Matie sendeth the grievances of the Bohemians into Spayno."
—Notes by Sir Robert Naunton, Sept. $, 1619. State Papers. Germany.
b Ambassador at Turin.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. O
pose to retire unto theyr howses after the 24 July by this account,
at which time theyr month did expire; and they were to receave
their last pay. But uppon the newes of the troubles threatened in
Germany the Duke of Savoy hath retayned these troupes for a longer
time, and he hath anticipated theyr paye for the month of Augost,
that they may be the more willing to serve whersoever the Prince
Palatine shal thinke fitt to employ them.a
* The offer was thankfully accepted. With what views it was received may be judged
by the tone of a memoir drawn up by the Margrave of Anspach and the Prince of Anhalt
for the instruction of Mansfeld and Dohna, who were to be sent in August on a special
mission to the Duke of Savoy. The Duke, they were told, had held out hopes that the
Venetians might be induced to arm 16,000 men for the German Protestants, and they
were to ask the Duke to do what he could with that object.
" lis diront aussy a S. A. de Savoye que les intentions pour lesquelles cet armement
particulierement pourroit estre employe consisteront en ces trois evenements. Assavoir : 1.
Ou pour conservation du fait de Boheme et ce qui en depend. 2. Ou sur un evenement
tres considerable d'un Vicariat. 3. Ou pour Taccommodement des gravames des Protes-
tans en l'Empire. Et qu'autrement il ne falloit rien entre-prendre mal a propos et hors
de saison. En tous ces trois evenemens il est quasi impossible qu'il n'arrive pas qu'estant
aniu-, on n'entreprene aucunement sur les Ecclesiastiques et la prestraille, non seulement
a cause qu'ils sont fort contraires a ce party a [et ?] vrays autheurs des griefs et des
augmentations intolerables de TEmpire, mais aussy qu'il seroit impossible de nourir noz
gens de guerre sur nos mesme terre, et nous laisser manger d'eux." — Londorp, Acta
Publica, iii. 599.
A separate memoir, apparently kept from the knowledge of the Elector, is still more
worth reading : —
" lis diront a S. A. de Savoye comme tout ce qui a est£ compris dans le precedent
memorial, s'est fait avec 1'advis et adveu de S. A. Monseigneur l'EIecteur Pal. le quel
lesd. deux Princes tiennent fort excusable, que son Altesse ne se declare plus ouverte-
ment. Mais voyans la presente occasion, ils tiennent pour certain, que rien asseurera et
certifiera plus l'intention de S. A. de Savoye que l'armement propose, outre le particulier,
dont Monsieur le Comte de Mansfelt a eu charge empresse, principalement si cela pourroit
estre employe pour obtenir la Couronne de. Boheme pour S. A. Palatine encores que les
envoyez peuvcnt asseurer le Due que l'EIecteur y soit fort peu port£, tant pour son naturel
tresmodeste qu'aussi pour les considerations d'estat qui pourront estre representer de
bouche. Neanmoins ils pourroyerit faire entendre comme les estats de Boheme y sont
extremement portez, et que les diffioultez pour Ferdinand sont evidents. Si doncques
S. A. parvenoitpar laseule aide de Savoy a lad. couronne, infalliblement il faudroit recon
noitre le bien-faiteur led. Due de Savoy, et luy estre tant plus oblige^ joint qu'en tel eas il

LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS

No. IV.
FREDERICK V., ELECTOR PALATINE, TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.]
gIEE [Heidelberg, September Jjj, 1618.]
Encores que je ne doubte pas que Vostre Mate n'ayt este' jusques
icy bien informee des occurrences de 1' Empire et singulierement des
affaires du Royaume de Boheme: Si est-ce que je n'eusse pas differe
si long temps a vous donner advis particulier du train d'icelles n'eust
este que pour me tant mieux acquiter de ce mien devoir je
m'avoy propose' d'envoyer vers V. Mate le Sr Baron Dona, l'un de
mes conseilliers, sur ce suject et autre; mais, voyant ce voyage estre
aucunement recule par divers empeschements survenus inopinement,
j'ay estim£ n'estre hors de propos, ains chose convenable d'y supplier
cependant par cestes, et representer a V. Mate qu'incontinent apres
avoir apperceu que lesdits affaires de Boheme commencoient a s'en-
aigrir de plus en plus, j'ay contribue conjoinctement avec Monsieur
l'EIecteur de Saxe toufmon possible envers Sa Mate Imple, tant par
auroit moyens et puissance, de la pouvoir faire, ayant deux voix au College des Electeurs
et y pourroit joindre fort aisement celle de Monseigneur l'EIecteur de Brandeburg, qui
depend de luy entierement, et joindre encor a soy une des Ecclesiastiques comme Treves,
par le moyen d'Angleterre et de Messeigneurs les Estats. Et estant arme, ce la s'entr'-
aideroit sans doute ainsy qu'il ne faudroit attendre autre chose que la benediction de Dieu
pour accomplissement de lad. intention. ... Et en ce cas sera difficile voir inevitable
qu'on entreprise contre les Ecclesiastiques et Prestres qui tous son Espagnolisez et pro-
curent la monachie Espagnole. ... II faudra aussy dire a S. A. de Savoye qu 'encor que
le fait ne doibt estre du tout dissimule envers le Roy de la Gran Bretagne, "qu'il faudra
necessairement aller fort sobrement du commencement pour les causes qu'ils diront de
bouche, et feront aussy entendre que la Baron est prest d'estre envoye' bien tost en Angle-
terre et par les pais has, et montreront a S. A. la connexit6 et dependance avec l'appor-
tunite" de la d. negotiation." — Londorp, iii. 601.
Mansfeld was required to command the troops in Bohemia, and Dohna was not sent to
Turin till October. The next letter was written by the Elector to explain the delay in
his mission to England.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 7
lettres que par envoy, a ce qu'il luy pleust se servir de la voye de
douceur et de quelque interposition, pour composer a I'aimable et
non par la violence des armes, dont l'evenement ne peut estre qu'in-
certain et pernicieux, le differens suscite entr'elle et les Estats dudit
Royaume par quelques malaffectionez, et ce a la suggestion des
Jesuites, qui pour ceste cause en ont este dechassez. Les Estats de
Silesie, et autres, ont fait les mesmes devoirs envers sadite Mate
Imple, laquelle a fait ceste declaration, qu'elle n'avoit dessaggreable
de deferer a une interposition, pourvueu que les Estats de Boheme
posent premierement les armes: se soubmettent au bon plaisir de
sadite Mate: se deportent de toute conduite de gouvernement : et
restituent toutes choses en leur premier estat, sadite Mate ayant en
ce cas designe pour entremetteuers Messieurs les Electeurs de Saxe,
de Mayence, Due de Baviere et Moy: adjoutant qu'en defaut de ces
conditions elle ne pouvoit, sans diminution manifeste de son autho-
rite, laisser du tout impunie la desobeyssance commise envers elle.
Mais parce qu'il y a apparence que lesdits Estats, qui de tout temps
pretentent des privileges particuliers de liberty, immunite, et autres
confirmez par les Empreurs et Roys de Boheme; et specialement
une concession et octroy du libre exercise de leur religion, a. eux
renouvelle et donne" en termes encors plus forts par le feu Empereur
Rudolph de glorieuse memoire, et du depuis confirme par serment
en l'assemblee des-dits Estats par l'Empereur moderne, ne conde-
scendront pas si aysement ausdites conditions, veu principalement
que jusques icy ils ont proteste n'avoir rien attente, ni eu volonte
d'attenter chose quelconque, contravenante au respect et fidelite deue
a sadite Mate comme & leur Roy, ains seulement de maintenir et
conserver leurs vies, liberte et exercice de leur religion conforme-
ment audit octroy imperial, a 1'encontre deceux qui par malveillance
et surprise employoient toutes sortes d'artifices et de ruses pour les
en priver. Les desseings d'iceux s'estants desja avancez jusques-la,
non seulement que d'empescher et fermer, mais aussi que de demolir
actuellement certains nouveaux temples qu'on y avoit bastis en

8 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
vertu et suite dud' octroy imperial et a quoy les pays de V. Mate
mesme avoient confere leur charitd et liberality. Ceste procedure,
fomentee come dit est par les Jesuites, ayant fait le commencement
des troubles que s'en sont ensuivis : il est fort a. craindre qui lesdites
affaires ne se portent du tout aux extremitez de quelque dangereuse
tragedie et triste effusion de sang: et ce dautant plus, que I'armee
de sadite Mate Imple, estant desja entree dans le dit royaume, y a
exercd quelques actes d'hostilite', et que d'autre costd les Bohemiens
sont aussi assez bien pourvueus tant de gens de guerre souldoyez que
de l'assistance de la noblesse et des gens du pays, outre ce que lesdits
Estats de Silesie, en vertu des pacts de confederation hereditaire, ont
promis de leur porter secours au cas que l'on continue a les perse-
cuter et cercher leur ruyne. De sorte que si la resolution, le bon
conseil, et le bon ordre, requis en telles entrefaites ne leur manquent,
il semble selon le jugement d'aucuns qu'ils seront bastants pour se
defendre une espace de temps. Et comme il importe grantement a
toute la Germanie et singulierement a tous les Princes et Estats
Protestants que lesdits Estats de Boheme ne soient opprimez ni de-
pouillez de leur liberte et exercice de leur religion, aussi n'a-on pas
obmis d'y employer jusques icy tous bons offices autant qu'il a este
possible sans alterer le repos public, ni provocquer ceste guerre contre
lesdits Protestants. Pour a quoy adviser encores plus meurement, et
deliberer des affaires publiques de l'Empire, j'ay este conseille" de
convocquer une Assemblee des Unis en la Ville de Rodemburg pour
le 27e de ce mois, ou de ma part je feray tous devoirs' possibles pour
le bien commun, et apres la teniie d'icelle communicqueray plus
amplement sur ce suject avec V. Mate, m'asseurant que si par la conti
nuation des armes, ces feux allumez en Boheme portoient leurs
flammes plus avant (selon qu'il est bien certain si les conseils de la
Maison d'Austriche y sortissent leurs effects) Vostre Mate, qui m'a fait
prendre ceste confiance filiale de sa bienvueillance paternelle envers
moy, ne m'abandonneroit pas en uh cas de besoing, et ains qu'il luy
plairoit me departir son prudent conseil et me prester sa favorable

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 9
assistance, ayde et secours, c'est ce dont se supplie Vostre Mate
tres humblement. Considere qu'estant, a, raison du Palatinat supe-
rieur, le plus proche voisin du Royaume de Boheme et par conse
quent du danger (ainsi que par cydevant je l'ay desja fait esposer a.
V. Mate), et mesme le plus envi£, tant a, cause de la religion de la-
quelle je fay profession avec Vre Mate qu'a, cause de la direction de
l'Union, que come vous scavez lesdits Princes et Estats Protestants
m'ont fait l'honneur de me deferer, j'ay le plus de besoing d'estre
sur mes gardes. Vostre Mate s'obligera de plus en plus toute ceste
Maison, et je n'auray rien plus en recommendation que de m'en
rendre vrayment recognaissant par la bienhumble et filiale obeyssance
que jay voiiee a. vostre service, & laquelle je rapporteray toutes mes
actions, y disposeray des miens, et feray paroistre en toutes occasions
avec combien de zele et d'affection je suis et demeure k jamais,
Sire, De V. Maste,
De Heydelberg le Tresobeissant fils et serviteur,
10e Septembre, 1618. Frideric, E. P.

No. V.
FRANCIS COTTINGTON TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON."
[State Papers. Spain.] [Madrid, September $ 1618.]
May it please your Honour,
I have receaved your letters of the 9th and the 11th of August, ,
the first giving me directions and his Ma*3 pleasure touching the
* Secretary of State.
CAMD. soc. c

10 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
business of Bohemia, the other acquainting me with the escape
which Sr Walter Raleigh intended.
Upon receipt of this your honour's letters I repaired ymediatly to
the Escurial, where I found the King readie to have taken his coach
to have gone a hunting to a parke of redd deare he had about a
league and a halfe from thence. But, having acquainted the Sec™
Ciriga with my desire of audience, and with .all that I had somewhat
to say about the trobles in Bohemia, His Matte was pleased to call
for me before he came down.
I first took notice of the message and commandment I had
receaved from the mouth of the Seclie Cirica some few days past in
his Matiea name (which I advertised in my last letters to my Lo. of
Buckingham,) touching the troubles in Bohemia, and then ac
quainted him that I had now receaved directions and comaundment
from the King my master to lett his Matie understand, that,
howsoever those people who had taken armes against the King of
Bohemia pretended to have been forced thereunto, for the safeguard
both of their lives and estates, and to prevent the execution of a
cruell massacre intended against them meerly for theire religion,
which being the same the King my master professeth he could
neither with the saftie of his honor or conscience leave them to be
consumed by the sword, if what they pretended and alleadged were
true, yet such was his respect to the generall peace and quiet of Crist-
endom and to the perfect freindship and brotherly amitie which he
held and professed towards his Matie (who in respect of his nearness
of blood to the King of Bohemia held himselfe so farr interessed in
the business) as he was resolved to use his utmost endeavours and
to interpose his best credit and autoritie for compounding the diffe
rence (with that honour and safetie of both parties as was fitting)
if he should fynd the same disposition and inclynation in his Matie,
of which he nothing doubted, and soe I proceeded according to the
-tenor of your honor's letter; all which the King tooke extraordinary
well, and sayd that the King of Great Britaine did every way give

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 11
good demonstracions of his affection to the peace and quiett of
Cristendome, and that he himself did well understand the obliga
tions he had in his own particular unto his Ma4115, and so willed me
for myne answere to attend the Sec'r Cirica, with whom I had the
next day following a large discourse about the busines. He told
me that what the Bohemians pretended touching any massacre
intended against them was a meere cavill and without ground.
That theire rebellion against theire King and Soveraigne was
evident to all the world, and therefore till they did make appeare
some just cause for it they must necessarily be held for traytors and
rebells. He sayd he would show me a letter from Rome by which
it should appeare that amongst the Cardinal Glessellius a papers
were found divers letters from the principall leaders of this rebel
lion to the sayd cardinall corresponding with him touching theire
treason, and that the cardinall had been so far from plotting any
thing against them as he might rather be held the nourisher and
author of that rebellious disposition in them. But when (he sayd)
it should be granted that he had delt dobly with those people, and
plotted (as was given out) a massacre against them, yet his imprison
ment and punishment did sufficiently cleere the King of Bohemia
from having any hand in it, and might also give satisfaction to
those people, especially having now been so often invited and called
by the Emperor and theire King, both by letters and proclamations,
to exhibit theire complaints and receave, justice, the very refusall
whereof made theire offence inexcusable. Much to this effect he
sayd unto me, desiring me to represent it unto the King my master;
but not to understand it as my full answere to what I had now
sayd, for that he would speake with the King, and then lett me
understand his pleasure.
I acquainted the Secrie with the escape which S1' Walter Raleigh
intended to have made, as alsoe with his apprehention and imprison
ment againe in the Tower; and withall, that, not to detaine his Matle
a Cardinal Klesel, formerly prime minister of the Emperor Matthias.

12 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
from his sports, I had not imparted it to him. He sayed he was
sory I had not told the King of it, but that he would instantly tell
it him, for that he knew it would be wellcome newes to him.
All other occurrants of this place I have now advertised unto Mr.
Secrie .Lake; and so, with remembrance of my dutie unto your
honour, I committ you to God's holy protection.
Your honour's to be comaunded,
Fra. Cottington.*
Madrid, this 17 th
Sept. 1618. stilovet.
[N.] Rd from Mr. Vice Chamberlain,b
x° Octobris, 1618, late.

No. VI.
FRANCIS COTTINGTON TO SIR THOMAS LAKE. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Spain.] [Madrid, September 26, 161gJ
October 6,
They have here made now a new assiento with the Genoveses for
500 thousand ducketts, of which 300 thousand are to be payd in
Germany, and the rest in Mylan, butt all is for the helpe and assis
tance of the King of Bohemia. By which your honour may per-
ceave how much they take that business to hart, yet on the other side
they labour by all wayes possible to compound it by faire meanes, as
that which eles is likely to cost them many millions.
a " The first of October following, the Marquis of Buckingham was commaunded by his
Ma"e to write unto Mr. Cottington that he should let the King of Spaine know that his
Matie was very glad to understand that he was likewise willing that those businesses
should be friendly accommodated. — Notes by Sir Robert Naunton, Sept. J§ 1619. —
State Papers, Germany.
b Sir John Digby.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 13

No. VII.
THE MARQUIS OP BUCKINGHAM TO THE COUNT OF GONDOMAR.
[Extract.]
[Archives of Simancas, 2598, fol. 114,] September 30, ...o
October 10,
Su Magd Catolica ha pedido al Rey mi sefior que haga buenos
officios en este negocio, y su Magd ha prometido de hazer en ello
(muy honrradamente) todo quanto pudiere y fuere in su mano, y de
acabar el negocio con paz y quietud si los Bohemios le oyeron y si
quieren su consejo ; y de otra manera, en caso que sean obstinados y
pertinazes los dichos Bohemios, pedira a su hierno y a los demas Prin-
cipes de la Union en Alemana que no les den ayuda ni assistencia nin-
guna, y procurara que assi lo hagan : pero confiesa su Mag4 a V.
E. que se olgara mucho que los Bohemios se conform asen con lo que
fueso justo, y sentiria en sumo grado (por la conformidad que tienen
con el en la religion) el ver los destruydos y arruyanados en caso
que se conformasen con la razon.
His Catholic Majesty has requested the King my master to use his
good offices in the business of the Bohemians, and His Majesty has pro
mised (very honorably) to do all that he can and that lies in his power,
and to finish the business peaceably and quietly, if the Bohemians will
listen to him, and are willing to have his advice. And on the other hand,
in case he finds the Bohemians obstinate and pertinacious, he will beg his
son-in-law and the other Princes of the Union in Germany not to give
them aid or assistance of any kind, and he willjprocure that they act in
this manner ; yet His Majesty confesses that he will be very glad if the
Bohemians conform to what is just, and that he will feel it very deeply (on
account of their conformity with him in religion) if he sees them destroyed
and ruined in case they conform to what is reasonable.

LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS

No. VIII.
FREDERICK V. ELECTOR PALATINE TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Heidelberg, October ^, 1618.]
Sire,
Par mes precedentes, qui estoient du 10e de Septembre dernier,
V. Mate aura entendu plus particulierement l'estat present des affaires
de Boheme. Celles-cy sont pour vous donner advis qu'en 1' Assem
bled des Princes et Estats du S'. Empire unis, tenue ces jours passez
en la ville de Rotembourg, tant sur ce suject qu'autres occurrences
publicques de la Germanie, a est£ meurement consider^ combiensont
interessees toutes les Eglises Evangelicques en la cause de celles
dudict Royaume. Cest pourquoy en ladite Assembled on n'a rien ob-
mis de tous ce qui peut servir a moyener un accommodement amiable
desdites affaires : lesdits unis ayant entre autres represent^ fort vivi-
ment par lettres a sa Mate Imple les dangereux evenements que
peuvent trainer apres soy les grandissimes - extremitez ausquelles les
choses sont portees par ceux qui visent plus a l'agrandisement d'au-
truy, qu'a. raffermissement du regne, et manutention de l'autorite
et reputation de sa dicte Ma'e quoy que pour parvenir a leur but ils
se couvrent du nom d'icelle. Estant a craindre que si sa Mate Imple
ne defere a, la douceur et ne donne lieu a quelque interposition, sans
vouloir obliger les Estats de Boheme si estroitement aux conditions
que j'ay specialisees a V. Mate en mesdites precedentes, il s'en pour
roit ensuivre de pernicieux mouvements en plusieurs endroits, capa-
bles de mettre en combustion toute la Germanie. Les autres Princes
et Estats Evangeliques ont este' pareillement exhortez de contribuer
de leur part tout leur possible a, faciliter cest accommodement tant

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 15
necessaire. Mais dautant que ces extremitez sont fomentees par
autres que par sadite -Mate Imple, il y a apparence, que si Dieu ne
suscite au plustot quelque bon expedient pour pacifier le tout,
I'armee Imperiale qui est desja entree dedans ledit royaume et y a
(sans doute contre l'intention de sadicte Mate) exerce" et commis
divers excez de cruaute non ouye entre les Chrestiens, pourroit s'y
loger pour y passer l'hyver, et puis sur le printemps se renforcer et
a l'aide des estrangers recommencer a persecuter les Estats de Bo
heme, lesquels seroient par ce moyen contraincts d'entretenir sans in
terval leur armee, et se consumer eux-mesmes par fraiz insuppor tables,
jacoit que jusques icy ils ayent par une courageuse resistance em-
pesche une bonne partie des progrez que ladite armee Imp16 se pro-
mettoit. Ces considerations fondees sur l'importance doivent con-
vier tous ceux que affectionnent le bien et repos public, et sur tout
la conservation des Eglises Evangeliques de la Germanie, a y
avoir l'ceil, et veiller au danger qui les menace : et, scachant de
quel zele Vre Mate a acoustume d'embrasser la cause de la vraye reli
gion, mesme ayant est£ adverti particulierement de ses bonnes in
tentions a. employer son entremise en cesdites affaires de Boheme,
je la supplie bien humblement qu'il luy plaise de faire, tant envers
sadite Mate Imple que en toutes autres part qu'elle jugera selon sa
prudence, toute sorte de bons offices utiles a l'acheminement et entre-
tenement d'une bone paix, et a. la conservation des pauvres Eglises
dudit royaume de Boheme, puisqu'elle est si importante a, toutes
celles de la Chrestient^ ( lesdits unis ayants prise resolution de
n'abandonner lesdits Estats de Boheme,) au cas que sans donner lieu
a la douceur on voulust continuer de recercher et poursuivre la
totale ruyne d'iceux. Et singulierement je reitereray icy la bien
humble priere, que j'ay desja faite a, V. Mate de me tendre la main
de son assistance paternelle et bon conseil, au cas que ceste Maison,
laquelle, tant a raison de la religion dont elle fait profession, est la
plus proche du danger qui en peut rejaillir, en eust besoing. En
quoy V. Mate s'obligera de plus en plus le public, et moy particu-

16 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
lierement a luy en rendre bienhumbles services. Priant le Createur
vous avoir,
Sire, en sa digne protection et sauvegarde.
De Heydelberg, le 8e d'Octobre, 1618.
De V. Ma'e-
Tresobeissant fils et serviteur,
Frideric, E. P.

No. IX.
FRANCIS COTTINGTON TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Spain.] [Madrid, October $, 1618.]
The broiles in Bohemia are here much taken to heart, and this
Kinge professeth that he will understand that busines as his owne
quarell, and as anything that concernes him nearest, both in respect
of his alliance in blood unto the King of Bohemia, as also in regard
of the Emperour and the Empire when the cause of religion did
nothing move him. Nevertheles he hath ben pleased to move the
Kinge our maister for his best assistance in making some faire com
position, and without efusion of blood, which he seemes most to
affect and labour, but with a protestacon to sett his rest on it,* if
nothing but the sword may compound the difference. I have been
required thus to represent this King's desires and intention unto his
MaKe, which accordingly I have performed, and receaved so good an
answere declaring his Majesty's willingnes to mediat a peace, and
hath given here no small contentment.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 17

No. X.
THE ESTATES OF BOHEMIA SUB UTRAQUE TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] rD October 24, n«1Qn
I Prague,  1018.]
a November 3, J
Serenissime et Potentissime Rex, Domine, Domine Clemen-
tissime. Constat Regias Magistati vestras, et toti orbi Christiano, quomodo
Deo, pro sua immensa misericordia annis ab hinc plusquam ducentis,
per Johannem . Hussum placuerit majores nostros invisere, et, inter
densissimas tenebras Papatus, luce Evangelii sui illuminare. Cujus
sane lucis igniculos idem Hussus noster discipulus Johannis Wiclefi
inde in Boemiam nostram transtulit, et quidem tali progressu, ut
facta admiranda in Boemia repurgatione, ea deinceps etiam in aliis
regnis et regionibus Europasis subsecuta sit, excitatis a Deo singu-
laribus organis, et magnis Ecclesias luminibus, quas veluti universum
orbem Christianum propagarunt. Ac mira sane res est : cum olim
florente Papatu Pontifex Romanus distribueret titulos inter reges
Christianos, sic ut Regem. Gallias titulo Christianissimi, Hispanias
Catholicissimi, et Regem Anglias Defensoris fide, ornaret : id quod
nunc demiim sub hac luce Evangelii, vere in Majestate Vestra, pro
summis donis in eam collatis, singulari Dei providentia conspicitur,
nimirum insignis non modo zelus propagandas veritatis divinas, sed
etiam indefessum studium tarn ad sanctam concordiam et unionem
inter omnes Evangelicos conciliandam et stabiliendam, quam ad suc-
currendum illis consilio et auxilio, contra eos, qui veritatem Evan-
gelicam premere et opprimere, sanctamque .concordiam, ad pro-
movendum suum terrestre imperium, evertere nituntur. Ac si ullo
seculo, certe nunc Sathan per Jesuitas, organa sua, locustas nimirum
illas'in Apocalypsi prsedictas, miris artibus, hoc aggressus et in hoc
iniquitatis et hypocriseos mysterio ab illis administrato, longe late-
CAMD. SOC. D

18 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
que progressus est. Experta hoc est etiam Boemia nostra statim
ab initio istius Sectas Jesuiticas donee tandem post multa certamina,
singular! Dei providentia, a Rudolpho Secundo, Imperatore et Rege
nostro, beatas memoriae, non modo libertas Religionis nobis Evan-
gelicis concessa, sed etiam diplomate Caesario stabilita, et a moderno
etiam Caesare Domino nostro clementissimo sollenniter confirmata,
sanctaque pax et libertas Religionis inter nos Evangelicos sub
utraque et Pontificios sub una vulgo nominatos erecta fuit. Quam
sane pacem hsec mala et inquieta Jesuitarum progenies qualiter
variis technis turbare, cliim et palam evertere, et nos jugo Pontificis
subdere conata sit, et quomodo machinationibus illorum, Deo ita
disponente et auxiliante, a nobis obviatum fuerit, Apologia nostra
brevis, turn etiam proscriptio Jesuitarum, quodutrumque Majli Ves-
trae mittimus, demonstrat. Unde urgente extrema necessitate, de-
fensiva arma, contra adversarios solum nostros (excipiendo semper
allacriter Sac™ Cass™ Majtem Dominum nostrum clementissfmum)
apprehendere coacti sumus. De quibus omnibus, etsi tarn Sac™
Cass™ Mtem tarn Sacri Romani Imperii Electores, Principes, et Res-
publicas, non destitimus lnculentissime informare, adeo ut nobis id
ut antea sic etiamnum unice expetentibus, veluti Imperii membro,
spes facta sit, componendorum istorum motuum per interpositionem
Electorum et Principum Imperii, tamen, instigantibus malis consili-
ariis, exercitus Cassaris, praster opinionem nostram, et spem nobis
factam, ingressus Boemiam, eam ferro igneque, nee sexui, nee aetati,
nee ipsis infantibus parcendo, vastarit, et adhuc vastare non desinit:
idque sub hoc prastextu a malis consiliariis conficto, et passim in
vulgus sparso non agi hie de impedienda religionis libertate, sed de
coercendis castigandisque rebellibus. Qua in re et coram Deo, et
mundo universo, injuriam nobis faciant acerbissimam. Id quod
non modo patet ex Apologia nostra, sed etiam ex litteris quas Unio
Sacri Romani Imperii ad Sac™ Cass™ M'em dedit, turn etiam ex Sile-
siorum, Regno Bohemias incorporatorum, responso (quos adversarii
a nobis sub hoc jam dicto praetextu separare, im'o eosdem ad anna

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 19
contra nos capessenda hortari nitebantur) plusquam satis demon
strate : quae duo scripta Maj" Vra etiam mittenda censuimus : in
quibus quoque innocentias nostras testimonium, cujus jam supra me-
minimus, probatur. Hasc cum ita se habeant, hocque unicum ab
adversariis agatur modo,.ut, redactis nobis sub jugum horrendum
Pontificium, Monarchia Pontificia, quam tantopere quidam affec-
tant, promoveatur; invigilandum omnino nobis erat, et implo-
randa consilia et auxilia, ab iis quos Deus nutricios, Patronos, et
Defensores Ecclesias suae constituit. Inter quos siquidem Vestra
Regia Majestas, divina ita disponente providentia, primum locum in
Orbe Christiano obtinet, ut non modo titulo tenus, sed re ipsa De
fensor fidei et Religionis Christianas sit, non desinimus eandem, qua
par est submissione, humillime exorare: ut et nobis in hoc pertur-
batissimo et periculosissimo rerum nostrarum statu, in quo jam ad
extrema deventum est, suo consilio et auxilio, divina favente gratia,
succurrere dignetur: prassertim ciim tanta sit adversariorum nostro-
rum prassumtio, ut innixi auxilio, quod illis etiam ex remotissimis
locis a confcsderatis ipsorum, et milite, et pecunia (quas est nervus
rerum gerendarum) cum spe continuationis diuturni belli, promit-
titur, non modo nobis Boemis libertatem serviendi Deo, ex pras-
scripto verbi ejus, adimant, sed etiam longius in Europam pro-
positum hoc suum turbandi et apprimendi alios Evangelicos promo-
veant. Verum qualiter omnibus temporibus Deus talium hostium
Christi, et Evangelii ejus, consilia perversa detexerit, et in nihilum
redegerit, ut alia innumera exempla prastereamus, testis est astate
nostra c[lassisa] illius navalis Hispanicae stupendas (Regni Anglias
sceptra tunc prudentissime mod[erantea] Elizabetha Regina beatas
memories, cujus hasredem Deus Vestram Regiam Majesta [tem esseaJ
voluit) dissipatio : ubi sicuti Theodosio Magno Lmperatori, sic dilectis
Deo in Ang[lia mia]litabat aether, et conjurati veniebant ad classica
venti. Testis est ad hunc usque diem in tota Europa singularis ilia
a Filled up by conjecture, the paper being torn.

20 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
divina providentia et potentia, in excitando subinde pio aliquorum
zelo, qui sese iniquis Pontificiorum et inquietis consiliis machina-
tionibusque opponunt, ad conservandam orthodoxam doctrinam, et
pacem publicam, erigendamque inter Evangelicos sanctam et firmam
concordiam. Excitavit Deus ad id et Vestram Regiam Majestatem,
quam singularibus donis suis ornavit, regna ejus auxit, unione sancta
cum iis qui Deum in spiritu et veritate colere eique servire adni-
tuntur conjunxit. Cum autem et nobis divina gratia datum sit, esse
una cum illis quoque unita in vera Christi fide membra, idque sub
certa spe futuras glorias, in et per Christum Theantropon in nobis
revelandas; cum Deus verax in suis promissis, et admirabilis in
Sanctis suis, qui Evangelio ejus crediderunt, conspicietur : ne
de[sea]re quassumus, Potentissime Magnas Britanniae Rex, [nos]
vera et orthodoxas fidei, cujus Veram Regam M'em Deus Defensorem
constituit, participes ; sed consilio et auxilio nobis, prassertim -pecunia
mutuo data, succurrito : ne deficientibus legitimis mediis, nunc inter
horrendas tempestates, quas Sathan apud nos per sua organa exci
tavit, nos prasda hostium facti, omni libertate exercendae purae reli
gionis privemur, atque ita lux ilia Evangelii, quam nostri majores,
uti jam supra dictum est, ab Anglis, veraci e[t ia]mmoto verbo Dei
fundatam, mutuati sunt, iterum densissimis Papatus tenebris obscu-
retur, vel obruatur; et hinc hasc res aliis regnis et regionibus ec-
clypsin aliquam adferat. Communia certe imminent pericula; unde
communia quoque contra hasc mature adhibenda remedia; et qui
dem pras ceteris a te, Rex potentissime. Id quod non modo nos de-
mereri humillime studebimus ; sed sera et grata tarn nostra, quam
universi Orbis Christiani posteritas, hasc quas Deus per .V™ Majtem
peregit, celebrare gratis animis non desinet. Hisce offerentes Majfi
V" Regies nostra submissa et humillima, ea qua par est sumrna ob-
servantia, officia, eandem, cum Serenissima Regina, et inclyta sobole,
nee non florentissimis regnis, divinas protectioni, sinceris et assiduis
ad Deum votis, commendamus.
» Filled up by conjecture, the paper being torn.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 21
Datum in Arce Pragensi, iii Novembris stylo novo. Anno
m.dcxviii. Regias Majestatis Vestrae

Barones, Equites, et Civitates Regias,
omnest[res ora] dines InclytiRegni
Bohemias Evangelicam [Religi
onem profitentes.b

devotissimi

No. XL
SIR ISAAC WAKE TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Savoy.] ™ . October 24, . „» „ _
[Turin,  '- 1618.]
November 3,
Here is arrived the Baron Dona, who hath brought letters Unto
the Duke of Savoye from the Prince Pallatine, the Marquis of Ans-
bach, the Prince of Anhalt, and others; the some of his instructions
is to thanke the Duke of Savoye for the troops he was pleased to
send unto those parts, to let him know how well they were em
ployed, and what greate good they have donne, and lastely to desire
him to continue the payment as long as conveniently he may.

No. XII.
THE MARQUIS OF BUCKINGHAM TO FRANCIS COTTINGTON.
[Spanish Translation. Add. MSS. 14,015, fol. 75.]
[Undated [? November] 1618.]
En quanto al Negocio de Bohemia su Maga me ha mandado que
le escriva a V. M. lo siguiente para que se lo diga a esse Rey.
* Filled up by conjecture, the paper being torn.
b To this letter no answer was returned.

22 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
Primeramente que V. M diga a su Magestad Catholica que el Rey
Nuestro Sefior le da infinitas gracias por tanta llaneza y claridad
que ha usado con el en esse negocio. Y lo entiende por el mayor ar-
gumento y manefestacion que le ha dado jamas de su sinceridad, y
de la resolucion que tiene de guardar inbiolablemente esta verda-
dera correspondencia, pues se fia del en lo que toca a essa negocia-
cion: y podra estar seguro que hara en ella los mejores oficios que le
sera possible, y en qualquier ocasion que se offeciere o en su parti
cular o por sus amigos o aliados usara de la misma llaneza y con-
fidenzia con su Magestad Catholica. Y para que bea su Magestad
con claridad la justa y sincera correspondencia del Rey Nuestro
Sehor V. M. le ha de dezir que ha ya mas de tres mezes que su Ma
gestad recebio las cartas de los Bohemios en que le representan sus
agravios y piden ayuda y favor, pero hasta oy dia no les ha dado su
Magestad respuesta ninguna ni por escrito, ni por palabra. Y esso
en parte porque imaginava (y assi le avian intimado) que el Rey de
Esparia tenia intencion de emplear en ello la interposicion del Rey
Nuestro Senor y hazerle Medianero en el negocio ; y en parte porque
no estava aun tan bien informado de las circumstancias incidentes
que pudiera assentar su opinion, no aviendo oydo mas de una parte.
Y porque su Magestad no sabe si han llegado alia quexas de los Bohe
mios y las justificaciones y alegaciones que presentan en su disculpa;
ha me mandado que le embie a V. M. esta declaracion inclusa que es
la que ellos han publicado, y assi la embio aunque en lengua Alemana
por la brevedad del tiempo, y V. M. podra hazerla traducir y presen-
tarla alia en caso que no la avran bisto. Y su Magestad dessea que
el Rey de Esparfo fuesse servido de informasse con certeza de lo que
el Emperador y el Rey de Bohemia han respondido a esta declaracion
de manera que el Rey Nuestro Senor pueda entender el estado y fun-
damento de la question ; y proceder con entrambos partes con la
ygualdad que es justo, y cumplir en todo con la confianca que podra
tener del el Rey de Espaiia. Y para effectuar este mejor se huelga
mucho de que el ynbierno esta ya tan adelante que espera que les

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 23
impidera a entrambas partes de empeiiarse mas en materia de armas,
y dara tiempo competente a su Magestad para negociar alguna buena
acomodacion: en la qual su Magestad Catholica le hallara tan justo
y tan sincero como le hallo en el negocio de Juliers entre su Mages
tad y los Sermos Archiduques por una parte, y los Holandeses por otra.
Que luego tratara con el Conde Palatino y con los demas Principes
de la Union para que persuaden a los Bohemios de pedir, y acceptar
tales condiciones de paz, y concordia que estaran bien con la honra
del Emperador, y con el derecho y interes del Rey de Bohemia; y
tambien con la propria y necessaria seguridad dellos, Y en caso
que rehusaran de hazerlo, su Magestad no solamente dexara de ayu-
darles y assistirles, pero empleara todo su credito con el Conde Pala
tino y con los demas Principes de la union de dexarles solos, y de
declarar su desaprobacion de tan pertinaz y inobediente proceder.
Pero si los Bohemios se mostraran reducibles y inclinados a las per-
suasiones de su Magestad, y a tal obediencia al Emperador y a su
Rey qual conbiene a buenos bassallos, en tal caso espera su Magestad
que el Rey de Espaha dara lugar a tales y tan yguales condiciones
que el Conde Palatino y los demas Principes (obligados no solamente
por lavezindad, sino tambien por la profession de la misma religion)
pueden dar y recibir la satisfacion que es justo, y evitar por alii la
efusion de sangre Christiana, dandoles tambien seguridad del exer-
cicio de su Religion y de los otros previlegios y libertades que tan
constantamente ha gozado aquella gente ya tanto tiempo.
Y para que bea el Rey de Espaiia con quanta diligencia accude el
Rey Nuestro Senor a sus cosas, podra V. M. dezirle que ya su Ma
gestad ha hecho el despacho para su yerno, y comencado de hazer
sus diligencias en accomodar el negocio.
[Indorsed. Copia de carta que escrivio el Marques de Bucquingam
a D. Francis Cottinton.
Vea esto el Sr Conde de Gondomar y diga lo que sobre ello
se le offreze.
Rubricado del Juan de Cirica en Madrid a 8 de Henero 1619.]

24 letters illustrating the relations
Translation of the foregoing.
With respect to the business of Bohemia, His Majesty has commanded
me to write to you the following, in order that you may repeat it to that
King. First you are to say to His Catholic Majesty that the King our master
gives him infinite thanks for the great plainness and clearness which he
has used in this business. And he understands it to be the greatest proof
and manifestation that he has ever given of his sincerity, and of the re
solution which he has to keep inviolably that true correspondence with
him, that he puts confidence in him in respect to this negotiation. And
His Catholic Majesty may be sure that in this he will do all good offices
in his power, and that on every occasion which may offer, either as regards
himself, or his friends or allies, he will use the same plainness and confi
dence towards him. And in order that His Majesty may see clearly the
complete and sincere correspondency of the King our master with him,
you are to tell him that it is now more than three months since His Ma
jesty received the letters of the Bohemians, in which they represented their
grievances to him, and asked for his aid and favour, yet that to this day
His Majesty has never given them any answer, either by writing or by
wordl And this is partly because he imagined (and so it has been inti
mated to him) that the King of Spain had an intention of employing in
the matter the interposition of the King our master, and of making him
mediator in the business ; and partly because he was not yet so well in
formed of the circumstances of the case as to be able to form a decided
opinion, not having heard more than one side. And, because His Majesty
does not know whether the complaints of the Bohemians, and the justi
fications and allegations which they have drawn up to free themselves from
blame have reached Spain, he has ordered me to send to you the inclosed
declaration, which is the one which they have pubhshed, and, to save time,
he sends it as it is, although it is in the German language. You can have
it translated and presented there, in case they have not seen it. His Ma
jesty also desires that the King- of Spain will be pleased to inform himself
with certainty what answer the Emperor and the King of Bohemia have
made to this declaration, so that the King our master may be able to un-

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 25
derstand the state and foundation of the question ; and to proceed towards
both parties with fairness, and to act in everything in accordance with
the confidence which the King of Spain may repose in him. And in
order that this may succeed the better, he is very glad that the winter
is so far advanced that there is hope that both parties may be hindered
from engaging with one another any further by way of arms, and that
sufficient time may be given to His Majesty to negotiate some good
agreement, in which His Catholic Majesty will find him as just and as
sincere as he found him in the negotiation of Juliers, between His Majesty
and the Most Serene Archdukes on the one hand, and the Hollanders on
the other.
He will treat immediately with the Count Palatine and the other
Princes of the Union that they may persuade the Bohemians' to demand
and accept such conditions of peace and concord as will be likely to accom
modate the business.
[Indorsed. Copy of the Letter which the Marquis of Buckingham wrote
to Sir Francis Cottington.
Let the Count of Gondomar see this, and say whatever occurs to
him about it.
Indorsed by Juan de Ciriza a at Madrid, the 8th of January, 1619.]

No. XIII.
FRANCIS COTTINGTON TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON. [Extract.]
[Sta^e Papers. Spain.] [Madrid, December T33, 1618.]
Being lately with the same Seer™ Juan de Cirica, he told me
that they had long since made a large dispatch unto theyr agent b
ther, giving him order to acknowledge unto his Matie a great obli
gation from this King for his soe noble and re'all proceeding in that
* Secretary of State.
b Julian Sanchez de Ulloa, agent for the King of Spain in London since Gondomar's
departure. CAMD. SOC. E

26 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
business, and to desire him that he might be pleased to continue
his mediation for some good agreement. Butt withall he added
that it is lately hither advertised how that the Prince Palatine doth
therin no good offices, in which (he sayd) this King was much
assured he observed not the orders given him by the King my
master. They styll profess here that they desire nothing butt peace,
yet withall I must lett your honour know that they have lately
remitted thither 200 thousand ducketts, and are carefull to make
provision for payment of the armie ther this next sommar.

No. XIV.
FRANCIS COTTINGTON TO THE MARQUIS OF BUCKINGHAM. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Spain.] [Madrid, December Jj, 1618.]
I have now spoken with this King, touching the business of
Bohemia, and delyvered unto him the complaints or declaration of
this people (which your lordship sent me), desiring that he would
be pleased nott only to reade the paper (in case he had nott allreadie
seen it) butt allso to informe himself what aunswere had been given
to it on behalfe of the Emperor and King of Bohemia, and to lett
the King my master understand it, that soe having heard and under
stood both parties he might proceed with that equity and uppright-
ness as was fitting ; I sayd that, to the end his Matie might more
playnly and truly perceave the integritie and sinceritie of the King
my master in his proceeding in this business, and how well he takes
the trust his Ma'ie reposeth in him, I had translated into Spanish
the letter which (I sayd) I had newly receaved from my Lord
Marques of Buckingham signifying therein unto me his Maties pleasure
and commaundment touching that business, and soe I gave him a
copie of your lordship's sayd letter which I had fitted for the purpose.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 27
His Matie aunswered me with a free and generall acknowledgment
of his obligation to the King my master, and for this business of
Bohemia in particular. He sayd he did much esteeme the favor
doone him by the King of Great Brytayn, that he would reade the
papers and cause a speedie aunswere to be given me.
It remains that I doe now solycite this busyness with those
mynisters of this King unto whom it belongs, and give your lord
ship an accompt allso of my proceedings with them.

No. XV.
CONSULTA BY THE COUNT OF GONDOMAR UPON THE LETTER OF
THE MARQUIS OF BUCKINGHAM TO FRANCIS COTTINGTON.
[Add. MSS. 14,015, fol. 77.] [Madrid, January ^,, 1619.]
El Conde de Gondomar ha visto como se acordo en Consejo la
copia de la carta que el Marques de Boquingan ha escrito a Don
Francisco Cotinton Agente de Inglaterra en las cosas de Bohemia,
y cumpliendo con lo que se le manda que diga y lo que se le ofreze en
el negocio, dize que sin embargo dela union y parentesca que el Rey
de Inglaterra tiene con el Conde Palatino y hereges de Alemania,
y que por esto su yntercession y medio puede ser muy sospechoso a
la cassa de Austria y religion Catholica, el tiempo que el Conde de
Gondomar estuvo en Inglaterra particularmente en los ultimos aiios
vio y supo que aquel Rey desvio verdaderamente al Palatino de las
inquietudines que trataba en la elecion de Rey de Romanos, aconse-
jandole y aun reprehendiendole de lo que trato con el Duque de
Baviera y de Saxonia sobre esto, y a Don Thomas Hedmons su em-
baxador que era en aquel tiempo (que avra dos aiios) en Francia le
escrivio una carta de mucha reprehension porque avia ydo per la
posta a Sedan a verse alii con el Palatino y Duque de Bullon a tratar

28 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
destas materias del Imperio : — Y entiende el Conde de Gondomar que
estos officios del Rey de Inglaterra eran por su ynclinacion a la paz,
y por las dificultades en que le parezca que se metia el Palatino y
Protestantes de Alemania, y la obligacion en que el savia de ver en
ayudarlos; temiendo que se juntarian los Catholicos contra ellos, y
serian mas poderosos y que esto tenia en el mas fuer9a para los buenos
officios que la amistad de V. Magd, ni lo que el Conde de Gondomar
le represento para ello, y assi entiende que, a la medida que viere las
ventajas en el poder de una o otra parte, seran los officios que hi-
ziere, si bien tiene en el Rey que oy es de Inglaterra por tan pode-
rosala vanedad, que siempre tendria much a fuerca con el averse hecho
pazes por su medio, de que se le sigue autoridad, y assi pareze al Conde
de Gondomar que tomando fundamento del ofrecimiento que el Rey
de Inglaterra haze a su Mag6" se puede y conviene azetar, pues no
puede dariar ni obrar el peor por esta razon, que lo que haria sin
ella ; antes se puede sacar fruto y obligalle a que aya verguenza de
simismo y que realmente haga buenos y verdaderos officios para la
reducion de los Bohemios a la obediencia de su Magd Cessarea y
Rey Ferdinando, y para esto no le pareze al Conde de Gondomar mal
medio que el Rey de Inglaterra embiase luego un Embaxador a
Alemania a tratar desto, y se procurase Inglaterra que este Embax
ador fuese bien ynclinado a la religion Catholica y servicio de su
Magd que assi se procuro y consignio en la diferencias de los estados
de Juliers.
El modo de encaminar esto aqui pareze que podria ser escriviendo
el Senor Secretario Juan de Cirica un papel a Don Francisco Co-
tinton, Agente de Inglaterra, diziendole como aviendo visto y consi-
derado su Maga Catholica lo que dixo y ofrecio de palabra en nombre
de su Maga del Rey de la gran Bretafia, y el papel que le dio sobre
el acomodamiento de las cossas de Bohemia y el querer interponer su
autoridad y medios en reducir los Bohemios a la obediencia de su
Maga Cessarea y Rey Ferdinando, le ha ordenado su Magd que le
diga que escriva a su Rey la gran estimacion que ha hecho deste

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 29
ofrecimiento y voluntad, porque con ello se muestra y vee la real
intencion de su Magd del Rey de la Gran Bretana, y lo que desea y
procura la paz publica y bien universal de la christiandad, accion de
tan grande y buen Rey como el es, y juntamente el amor y amistad a
la cassa de Austria, y a que los Rey es no permitan introduccion tan
perniciosa como la rebelion y desobediencia de sus subditos, y que
assi hara su Maga del Rey de la Gran Bretana accion muy conforme
a todos estos fines en elegir y nombrar luego embaxador espresso que
vaya a Bohemia a tratar desta compossicion, y que su Magd Catholica
ordenara al Conde de Oiiate, su embaxador en la Corte Cessarea, que
haga de su parte para el mismo fin y buen acomodamiento de las cossas
todos los officios que sean possibles, guardando y teniendo con el
Embaxador que fuere de Inglaterra la buena hermandad intelligencia
y correspondencia que ay entre las dos Magestades y tanto conviene
para el buen fin, y que el Agente de Inglaterra escrivia al Rey de la
Gran Bretana que el vaya tambien viendo si de aca convendra que
su Magd Catholica haga algunos otros particulares officios, o si de la
parte del Emperador y Rey de Bohemia huviere difficultad en al
guna cossa que parezca razonable para que su Magd Catholica lo
facilite y procure reduzer de manera que ambas Magestades hagan esta
concordia y paz tan conviniente a todos y tan del servicio de Dios, y
el Rey de Francia no tendra causa de sentirse de que se admita lo
que Inglaterra ofreze, pues Francia no ha salido a ello : en Madrid a
14 de Hen° 1619.

The Count of Gondomar has seen the vote of the Council relating to
the letter which the Marquis of Buckingham has written to Sir Francis
Cottington the English Agent about the affairs of Bohemia, and in com
pliance with the directions he has received that he should say what occurs
to him on the business, he says that in spite of the union and connexion of
the King of England with the Count Palatine and the heretics of Germany,
and though, for that reason, his intercession and mediation might be
regarded with great suspicion by the House of Austria, yet whilst the

30 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
Count of Gondomar was in England, and especially in the last years, he
saw and knew that that King really prevented the Palatine from throwing
impediments in the way of the election of the King of the Romans,
giving him counsel, and even blaming him for negociating with the Dukes
of Bavaria and Saxony on this matter; and he wrote to Sir Thomas
Edmondes, who at that time (two years ago) was his ambassador in
France, a letter in which he blamed him severely for having gone by
post to Sedan to meet the Palatine and the Duke of Bouillon with the
object of treating on these affairs of the Empire. And the Count of
Gondomar understands that these good offices of the King of England
were owing to his inclination to peace, and to his expectation of the
difficulties into which the Palatine and the Protestants of Germany would
bring him, and to the obligation to assist them under which he knew he
was, being afraid lest the Catholics would join against them and become
more powerful. It is this which has more to do with his good offices
than your Majesty's friendship or than the representations made to him
by the Count of Gondomar. The Count understands therefore that the
good offices which he will do will be in proportion to the advantage which
he sees to be gained by one side or the other, for he holds that the
vanity of the present King of England is so great that he will always
think it of great importance that peace should be made by his means, so
that his authority may be increased. It therefore seems to the Count of
Gondomar that, upon the basis of the offer made to his Majesty by the
King of England, it is possible and fitting to accept his mediation, since
it can not do any harm, or make things worse than they would be without
it : but that it is more likely that good will come of it, and that he will
be brought under an obligation by what he does, so as to be ashamed of
himself, and really and truly to do good offices towards the reduction of
the Bohemians to the obedience of His Imperial Majesty and the King
Ferdinand. And it seems to the Count of Gondomar, that it would not
be a bad way to obtain this object, that the King of England should
send immediately to Germany an ambassador to treat about it, and if
it could be arranged in England that this ambassador should be well
inclined to the Catholic religion and to His Majesty's service, as was
arranged and managed in the dispute about the States of Juliers.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 31
The best mode of setting this on foot here seems to be that the
Secretary Juan de Ciriza should write a paper to Sir Francis Cottington
the English Agent, telling him that his Catholic Majesty having seen and
considered what he has said and proposed by word of mouth on behalf of
the King of Great Britain, and the paper that he gave him about the
accommodation of the affairs of Bohemia, and about the King's wish to
reduce the Bohemians to the obedience of His Imperial Majesty and the
King Ferdinand, has ordered him to request him to write to his King tell
ing him of the great estimation which is made of this ready offer by which
is shown and seen the real intention of His Majesty the King of Great
Britain, and how much he desires and procures the public peace, and the
universal good of Christendom (an action worthy of so great and good a
King as he is), and withal his love and friendship to the House of Austria,
and that Kings should not permit so pernicious an introduction as
rebellion and disobedience of their subjects ; and that thus His Majesty
the King of Great Britain will do an action very conformable to these
ends by choosing and naming immediately an express ambassador who
may go to Bohemia to treat of this composition, and that his Catholic
Majesty will order the Count of Oniate his ambassador at the Imperial
Court, to do on his part, for the same end, and for the well compounding
of the business, all the good offices which may be possible, keeping and
holding with the ambassador who may be sent from England that good
brotherhood, intelligence, and correspondence, which is between their
Majesties, and which is so necessary to bring things to a good end ; and
that the English agent should write to the King of Great Britain to know
if it is there thought necessary that His Catholic Majesty should do any
other particular good offices, and he may add that, if on the part of the
Emperor or the King of Bohemia there should be any difficulty in any
thing which may seem reasonable, His Catholic Majesty will facilitate and
reduce matters in such a way that both their Majesties may bring
about this concord and peace so convenient for all, and so much for the
service of God. And the King of France will have no cause to complain
of the acceptance of the English offer, since France has not come forward
with any such proposal.
Madrid, 14th of January, 1619.

32 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. XVI.
FRANCIS COTTINGTON TO THE MARQUIS OF BUCKINGHAM. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Spain.] [Madrid, January^, 1619.]
I am now told by the principall secretarie that the Lords of the
Councell of State have sent a consulta to the King about the
aunswere which shall be given me in the business of Bohemia, and
that I shall receave it within three or four days ; in the meane
tyme, the Duke of Useda, the said Secretarie, and most of the Lords
have told me, that this King holdeth himself infinitely bound unto
his Majestie for soe free, real, and noble a proceeding with him in
the business, and that he wyll putt it wholy into his hands, and to
this effect the King himselfe hath told me. I hope within ten days
I shall be able to dispatch the post with an aunswere in the mayn
business, and by him I shall allso advertise that of Bohemia.

No. XVII.
SIR ROBERT NAUNTON TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Holland.] [London, January §}, 1619.]
By the Baron of Dona who hath lately been employed hither
from the Elector Palatin, his Ma'? hath understood so much of the
affaires of Germany, that he hath thought fit in his princely wisdom
both to take into consideration their present estate, and to pre
vent (as farr as may lye in him) such daunger as may perhaps fall
hereafter uppon some who rely wholie upon his royall protec
tion. His Ma'y could wish above all thinges to see those partes set
tled in a good and secure peace, as being a course most conforme to
his goodly disposicion, and to the profession he hath alwayes made ;
but if his desires therein cannot have their wished effect, he may

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 33
not neglect the care of those whom he doth the honour to love, and
is bound to protect. The Prince Pallatine, as thinges stand at this
present, is paries proximus, and the fier is so neare his house, that
reason of state will inforce him to stand uppon his guard for feare of
being surprised ; besides, the great age of the Emperor is accom
panied with such weakness and indisposition that it may be feared he
will not be able to hould out long ; and if he should chance to fayle,
the vicariate of Upper Germany must neades fall upon the Palatin,
as being the first elector of the Empier. That dignitie cannot be
maintained with such eminency and authority as is fittinge, unless
it be supported with power and strength that may inforce obedience,
especially consideringe that the state of the Pallatine is beseaged on
all sides by ecclesiasticall Princes, who, as they hate his religion, so
will they ever envy his greatness and doe their best to oppress him _
These consideracions will inforce the Palatin to have in readinesse
such strength and forces as may both secure his state at the present,
and enable him to maintaine the vicariat dignitie when it shall fall
uppon him ; and, because his own state will hardly support so great
a charge without some helpe and assistance of common friends, it is
his Mata pleasure that you sholde move the states of the United
Provinces to contribute for their parts the pay of 2000 foot for
some few months, in which time it may be hoped that all matters
may be quietly accommodated. His Ma'ie hath alreadie led them the
way by his renewinge the alliance with the body of the Union,
which will be no small incouragement to those Princes to stand
uppon the defence of the publique liberty, and if you can procure
of those states this small assistance which is desired, you shall doe
an acceptable service to his Ma'? in regarde of the care he hath of
the publique good.a
° The following is Dohna's own account of his mission , extracted by Voigt in Raumer's
Historisches Taschenbuch (1853), 126 :—
" Naoh dem ich bei dem Konige Audienz gehabt, haben Seine Majestiit mich an die
Rathe gewiesen, mit densclben in Unions-sachen wegen Prolongation des Biindnisses zu
CAMD. SOC. F

34 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. XVIII.
FREDERICK V., ELECTOR PALATINE, TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.]
[*— f^iT1619^
Sire,
Le sieur Baron de Dona aura desormais represent^ a Vostre Mate
I'estat des affaires de Boheme, par ou elle aura entendu les moyens
qu'on avoit propos^ pour avancer une amiable interposition. La
quelle bien qu'elle aye en quelque apparence d'estre recerchee, si
est ce que outre l'incertitude de son progrez, il y est ja alle une
tractiren, sintemal die Zeit des ersten Verbilndnisses zu Ende gelaufen. Es sind sechs
der kb'niglichen Rathe zu der Handlung verordnet worden. Der Erzbischof von Can
terbury, der due de Lenox, der due de Buckingham, welchen man Marquis genauut,
nebst drei Gelehrten (conseillers d'e'tat) welche, als sie versammelt gewesen, mir eine
Stunde benaunt, bei ihnen im koniglichen Palaste zu erscheinen. Als ich in deu Rath
gekommen, haben sie sich an eine Tafel niedergesetzt, mir aber die Oberstelle allein
zu sitzen angewiesen, und hat man also (in Abwesenheit des von Buckingham welcher
nicht bei der Hand sein konnen) die Handlung angefangen. Sie wurde bald verrichtet
und enklarte sich der Konig er wolle das Biindniss mit den Unirten noch auf einige
Jahre verliingern, also dasz ich meinen Zweck und was mir befohlen war, erlangte.
Daneben aber waren mir noch andere Sachen iibertragen, belungend den Zustand von
Deutschland und dasz es sich ansehen liesze, als ob nach Kaiser Matthias Tod die Stande
in Bohmen, Mahren und benachbarten Landschaften einen andern Herrn erwahlea
mochten, dabei denn etliche Leute sich die Einbildung machten, als ob solche Wahl auf
einen evangelischen Reichsfursten, und namentlich auf den Kurfiirsten Pfalzgrafen,
Seiner Majestat Eidam, sollte gebracht werden konnen. Dies Alles ist zwar Seiner
Majestat mit gebuhrendem Grund und mit Bescheidenheit vorgebracht, aber doch aller-
dings nicht wohl aufgenommen worden. Denn obwol Seine Majestat sich dahin erklarte,
dasz sie, wenn auf gemeldetem Todesfall eine electio legitima vorginge, alsdann ihres
Eidams sich anzunehmen nicht unterlassen wolle, so gab dennoch Seine Majestat zu
verstehen, er wolle von einen Kriege nichts hiiren. Er sehe wohl, wir gingen damit un,
einen Krieg anzuheben, aber er, der Konig, wolle damit nichts zu thun haben, denn er
merke, dasz sich etliche Fiirsten in Deutschland damit grosz zu machen suchten. Es
ware sein Rath, dasz sich sein Eidam wohl in Acht zu nehmen hatte, ehe er einen Krieg

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 35
bonne espace de temps en vain. Et cependant sa Mate Imperiale
se renforcant par les levees qui se font 5a et la, pour elle, il est a
craindre, que si ceux qui la conseillent et I'engagent a, ceste guerre
obtenoient le dessus, ils pourroient tirer en longueur ladite Inter
position, ou bien la rejecter du tout; ce qui en Tun et I'autre cas
rendroit de beaucoup pire la condition des Bohemiens. Lesquels
ne sont bastants de continuer d'eux mesmes leur defensive k l'en-
contre d'un si puissant parti, favorise et assist^ de la force d'Espagne
et des Papistes qui ne respirent que l'extirpation de la religion
Evangelicque. De sorte que si lesdits Bohemiens estoient con-
traints de ceder a la violence, il est tout certain, qu'alors les Evan-
gelicques de la Germanie seroient & la veille d'un grand danger.
Cest pourquoy je supplie Vostre Mate bien humblement qu'il luy
plaise embrasser de son coste1 cest affaire bien vivement selon sa
royal prudence et generosity pour le conservation du Bien et rafer-
missement du repos public. Les Electeurs Ecclesiastiques et autres
Princes et Prelats furent, ces jours passez, assemblez a Ober Wesel,
ou ils ont indubitablement conclu de prester secours contre les
Bohemiens. Dont j'ay estime devoir donner ce mot d'advis a
Vostre Ma'e, et par mesme moyen l'asseurer de mon obeyssance
filiale accompagnee d'un singulier desir de rencontrer les occasions
pour y joindre les effects et vous tesmoigner combien je suis,
Sire, De Vostre Mste,
Tresobeissant fils et serviteur,
De Heydelburg le Frideric, E. P.
22 de Janvier, 1619.
anhebe, er solle als ein junger Herr seinen Schwiegervater folgen, wie die Verse Virgil's
lauteten, welche Ihre konigliche Majestat mir vorhielten und vorsagten :
O prsestans animi juvenis, quantum ipse feroci
Virtute exsuperas, tanto me impensius asquum est
Prospicere atque omnes volventem expendere casus.
In the original (JEn. xii. 21) the last line stands " Consulere atque omnis metuentem
expendere casus."

36 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. XIX.
DON JUAN DE CIRIZA TO FRANCIS COTTINGTON.
[State Papers. Spain.] [Madrid, January2^' 1619.]
February 1,
Aviendo visto y considerado su Magd el papel que V. M. le dio
sobre el acomodamiento de las cosas de Bohemia, y lo que V. M. le
dixo y offrecio de palabra en nombre del Serm0 Rey de la Gran
Bretana, de que interpondria su autoridad y medios en reduzir a los
Bohemios a la obediencia del Emperador y Rey Ferdinando, me ha
mandado dezir, que V. M. responda de su parte la gran estimacion
que ha hecho deste offrecimiento y voluntad, por lo que con ello se
muestra, y vee la real intencion que tiene, y lo que dessea y procura
la paz publica, cosa digna de- tan grande y buen Rey como es, y
juntamente el amor y amistad a la casa de Austria, y a que los
Reyes no permitan introducion tan perniciosa, come la rebelion y
desobediencia de sus subditos, y que assi sera accion muy conforme
a todos estos fines el nombrar luego su Magd del Rey de la Gran
Bretana Embaxador expreso que vaya a Bohemia a tratar desta com-
posicion, y que su Magd Catholica ordenara al Conde de Oiiate su
Embaxador en la corte Cesarea que haga de su parte para el mismo
effecto y buen acomodamiento de las cosas, todos los officios que
sean possibles guardando y teniendo con el Embaxador que fuere de
Ynglaterra la buena hermandad inteligencia y correspondencia que
ya entre las dos Magdes y tanto conviene para el buen fin que se lleva,
Y que haziendo esto el Ser™0 Rey de la Gran Bretana de su parte, el
Rey mi Senor hara de la suya los officios que parescieren convi-
nientes para facilitar si hubiera alguna dificultad de parte del Empe-
ador y Rey Ferdinando en cosa que paresca razonable de manera
que sus MagdeB hagan esta concordia y paz tan conbeniente a todos
y tan del servicio de Dios, que guarde a V. M. como desseo. En
Madrid, a 1° de Feb0 1619. Ju° DE ClRICA.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 37
"His Majestie, having seene and considered the paper which you'gave
him touching accommodating the business of Bohemia, together with what
you offred and sayd unto him by word of mouth, in the name of the most
excelent King of Great Britaine, how that he would interpose his meanes
and authoritie, in reducing the Bohemians to the obedience of the
Emperor and the King Ferdinando, hath commaunded me to tell you,
that, on his behalfe, you should represent the great estimation which he
hath made of this offer and wyllingness, for that by it is playnly shewn
and seene his reall intention, and how much he desires and procures the
publike peace (a proceeding worthy of soe great and soe good a King as
he is), and withall his love and frendship to the howse of Austria, and that
kings should nott permitt soe pernitious an introduction as rebellion and
disobedience in theyr subjects ; and that therfore it shall be an action
very conformable to all these ends, that his MatIe of Great Brytayn doe pre
sently appoynt and send an express Embasador for Bohemia, ther to treat
of this composition ; and that his Catho. Mati0 wyll give order unto the
Conde of Oniate (his Embasador in the Emperor's Court) that to the same
effect and purpose, and for the well compounding of the business, he doe
all the good offices which shall be possible for him, holding and keeping
with the Embassador that shall be sent from England that good brother
hood, intelligence, and correspondence which is between theyr Maties and
is allso soe nescessary for the desired end. And that, his Majestie of
Great Brytain being pleased on his part to performe thus much, the King
my master wyll allso doe thos good offices which shall be thought
convenient for facilitating of the business, if on behalfe of the Emperor Or
the King Ferdinando any difficultie shall appeare, in that which shall seeme
reasonable, in such sort as theyr Majesties may effect this peace and
concord, soe convenient for all parties, and soe much for the service of
God, who preserve you as I desire. In Madrid this first of Feb. 1619.
Juan de Cirica.
a This translation is in Cottington 's handwriting. (State Papers, Spain.)

38 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS

No. XX.
THE DUTCH COMMISSIONERS IN ENGLAND- TO THE STATES GENERAL.
[Extract.]
[Transcripts from the Archives of the Hague. Add. MSS. 17,677. I. fol. 382, b,]
[London, -Lanuary2^ 1619.]
February 2,
Wij hebben eenige dagen geleden verstaen vuijt een van de
voornaemste heeren van den rade, dat ter instantie van den baron
Dona, van wegen die geunieerde vorsten van Duijtslant, d'alliance
ende ligne defensive met deselve bij zijne Ma4 was gecontinueert.
ende derhalven genochsaem geengageert in cas van necessiteijt de
saeche van Behemen te helpen maincteneren, voegende daerbij den
gemelten heere, dat seer dienstich soude sijn dat Uwe ho : mo : bij
dese goede occasie door een vigoreuse aenmaninge, zijne Ma* souden
esveilleren ende versoeken tot het datelijck secours van die van
Bohemen, oordeelende dat soodanige devoiren nijet onder merke-
lijcke vrucht ende effect souden sijn.

We understood, some days ago, from one of the principal lords of the
Council, that, at the instance of Baron Dohna on the part of the United
Princes of Germany, the affiance and defensive league between them and
his Majesty was continued, and that the King was therefore sufficiently
engaged in case of necessity to help to maintain the Bohemian cause.
The above mentioned lord added that it would be very serviceable that
your High Mightinesses should rouse His Majesty by a vigorous exhor
tation, and should invite him to the immediate succour of the Bohemians,
judging that if you performed your part in this manner it would not be
without marked fruit and effect.
• They had been sent to negotiate a treaty between the Dutch and English East India
Companies.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 39

No. XXI.
FRANCIS COTTINGTON TO THE MARQUIS OF BUCKINGHAM. [Extract.]
[State Papers, Spain.] [Madrid, J»"""y28.1619.]
u February 7,
In the mean tyme this King hath given me his aunswere in the
business of Bohemia, his pleasure being signified unto me in a lettre
from the Principal Secrie of State, as wyll appeare unto your lordship
by the copie of that lettre which I send you here enclosed ; and better
I cannott express what I am in that letter required to represent
unto his Matie then by referring him to the letter itselfe, which (for
his Majesties more immediat understanding of it) I have translated
into English on the backe of it.
After that the sayd written aunswere was delyvered me, the
Secretarie wrote me another letter (the copie wherof I allso send
your lordship here inclosed) desiring that I would forthwith dis
patch this messenger with that aunswere unto his Majestie, for that
it required hast, telling me withall that in the principall business
they went on apace, and that shortly another Correo should be
dispatched with that resolution, which request of his I could by
no meanes denie, butt resolved to dispatch this bearer accordingly.
If his Majestie shall be pleased according to the request of this
King (and therof they are here very confident) to send an Embas
ador into Bohemia, I have thought it my dewtie to putt your lord
ship in mynd how that the sending one whom they here under
stand to be well affected to the service of this King wyll give them
very great satisfaction, howsoever the business shall succeed; and,
on the contrary, they wyll ever be jelous that things might have
been better carried. I have the rather presumed to say this much
unto your lordship (which I humbly beseech you to pardon) for
that I perceave ther are nott many gentlemen of qualitie about that

40 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
Court of whose dispositions or inclynation they have nott made
some judgment ; I mean eyther of theyr affections or aversness to
the good of this state and to the continuance of this good corre
spondence which is now between theyr Matles.
% -K -H •$• -•-
Since the wrighting of this much I have seen (by meanes of a
confident frend) the dispatch which this bearer carryes from this King
to Julian Sanches his Agent ther,a in which his Majestie com-
maunds him exprestly to solycite the King my master's resolution in
the business of Bohemia, to acquaint your lordship with it, and to
pray your favorable remembrance of his Majestie in the business ;
to observe the qualitie of the person that shall be named for the
Embassage into Bohemia, and forthwith to advertise the Conde of
Oniate (this King's Embassador in Germany) of it, that he may
accordingly provide for the reception of him ther (the very words
of the dispatch) as from hence he hath instructions. And in the
sayd dispatch, they doe allso advertise the Agent, that within these
3 dayes they wyll send a Correo unto theyr Embassador in Ger
many, giving him in charge to prepare all things for this treatie, in
the best manner he may. Thes partyculars I have thought worthy
of your lordship's knowledge, and therfore I have been the larger
in them.

No. XXII.
THE DUTCH COMMISSIONERS IN ENGLAND TO THE STATES GENERAL.
[Transcripts from the Archives of the Hague. Add. MSS. 17,677, I. fol. 388.]
[London, February ^, 1619.]
HOOGE ENDE MOGENDE HEEREN.
Mijnheeren, die heer baron van Dona hebbende alhier sijn de-
pesche becomen, ende gaende in legatie naer U. ho: ende mo:
* Julian Sanchez de Ulloa, the Spanish Agent in London.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 41
heeft van ons begeert brieven van addres aen dieselve, die wij met
vougen niet wel en hebben connen weijgeren, hebbende verstaen
dat sijne Ma' die saecke beharticht, ende ten selven eynde aen den
heer ambassadeur Carleton geschreven, om sijn E. soo weel doenlijk
te seconderen. Denselven heer van Dona heeft alhier geobtineert
prolongatie van de alliance (gelijck wij voor desen geschreven) voor
den tijt van ses jaren, ende zedert ooch noch beloftenissen van
eenich secours van die van Beemen, gelijck wij van hem verstaen
ende U. ho. ende mo. van denselven breeder sullen connen verne-
men. Die heer Gabaleon, ambassadeur van den hartich van Savoien,
die voor desen lange verwacht, is op gisteren alhier gearriveert.
Ende wesende tegenwordich niet anders, bidder den Almogenden,
enz. Vuijt London, den 12en
February 1619.
J. Van Goch.
E J. Van Der Dussen.
Joachim Lienz.
Noel de Caron.

High and Mighty Lords.
My Lords. The Baron Dohna, having received his despatch here, and
going on an embassy to Your High Mightinesses, has demanded of us
a letter addressed to you, which we could not well refuse, as we had under
stood that His Majesty took the matter much to heart, and has written to
the same purpose to the Lord Ambassador Carleton to second his Excel
lency as much as possible. The same Baron Dohna has obtained here a pro
longation of the affiance (as we wrote before) for a period of six years, and,
since that, he has also got promises of some succour for the Bohemians, as
we understand from him, and as Your High Mightinesses will learn at
greater length from himself. Signor Gabaleone, the Duke of Savoy's am
bassador, who has been long expected, arrived yesterday. And as at pre
sent there is nothing more to write, we pray the Almighty, &c.
CAMD. SOC. G

42 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS

No. XXIII.
SIR ROBERT NAUNTON TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON." [Extract.]
[State Papers. Holland.] [London, February -j*,, 1619.]
The Baron Dona hath renued the treaty with the Princes of
the Union for sixe yeares more, and is now coming to solicit the
States, whom his Ma'? will have to assist him with all the best
offices you may do him there, and to use his name and credit to the
States for the speediest accomplishment of what he hath to propound
unto them.

No. XXIV.
FREDERICK V., ELECTOR PALATINE, TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Heidelberg, February ^, 1619.]
Sire, Vostre Mate est sans doubte bien informee par ses Ambassa-
deurs de I'armee navale et grands preparatifs de guerre que le Roy
d'Espagne fait faire tant en Italie, qu'en ses autres ports de mer, et
du passage qu'on demande de sa part a. la Republicque de Venise
pour mener par le Golffe ou la Mer Adriaticque un notable nombre
de gens de guerre en Austriche contre les Estats de Boheme. J'es-
time chose superflue de representer a, V.,M*e combien il importe au
Public d'avoir l'ceil sur tels desseings, et de tenir la main a la con
servation desdits estats, et mesmes de ladit Republicque, puis qu'elle
a jusque icy servi comme de contremine a, plusieures dangereuses
entreprises. Aussi suis-je tres asseure que Vostre Mate n'a rien plus
a Ambassador at the Hague.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 43
a cceur que l'avancement et entretenement du bien et repos de toute
la Chrestiente. Et neantmoins je me veux promettre de sa bonte natu-
relle et paternelle affection enuers moy, qu'elle n'aura desaggreable ce
mot que je luy fay pour luy tesmoigner que de ma part je porte mon
soing a ce mesme but : et qu'il est fort a, craindre que, si par le moyen
dudit passage ladite armee, ou une partie d'icelle, se transportoit dans
l'Empire, la faction d'Espagne auroit porte ouverte pour executer
divers desseings, non seulement au grand desavantage de toute la
Germanie, mais aussi et specialement de ladite Republique ; Cest
pourquoy je supplie Vostre Mate bien humblement, qu'il luy plaise
employer son conseil et authority a divertir la permission dudict
passage, pour les considerations susmentionnees= En quoy elle s'ob-
ligera de plus en plus tout le Public, et ce sera l'endroit ou, apres
vous avoir baise bien humblement les mains, je demeure a, tousjours,
Sire, De Vostre Ma'e
Tresobeissant fils et serviteur,
Frideric, E. P.
De Heydelberg le
5e de Febvrier 1619.

No. XXV.

SIR DUDLEY CARLETON TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Holland.] [The Hague, February $, 1619.]
The day following* I spake with the Prince of Orange concerning
the assistance of the Prince Palatin; which he did not thincke fittto
have mentioned to the States untill the returne of the Baron Dona ;
who came to this towne on Wednesday1* night late ; and this day he
hath audience of the States Generall. His busines is in some good
» Following last Sunday, i.e. Feb. fs. b February Jg.

44 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
manner prepared for him ; in that the Provinces have bene already
moved for the assistance of the Bohemians, towards which they are
well inclined to make a contribution in that manner as they did to
the Duke of Savoy by a monthly payment : and because the affaires
of the Prince Palatine and the Bohemians have some connection
one with the other, it wilbe the lesse difficultie to procure that the
money may be im ployed by the Prince Palatin, as may be best for
the common good of those parts.a

No. XXVI.
SIR DUDLEY CARLETON TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Holland.] [The Hague, February $, 1619.]
This day two of their deputies have bene with me, one of Holland,
an other of Zeeland, to acquaint me with their answeare which they
have given to the Baron Dona, and wherewith he departs this after-
noone. The effect thereof is that they have already written to their
provinces, and will now againe second their former letters touching
the Bohemians, not doubting but within few dayes they shall have
order from their principalis to give them assistance ; and touching
the succours of the Princes of the Union that they will readily per-
forme the same in conformitie to their treatie.
This being as much as was required of them by the Baron Dona,
I did not thincke it fitt for me to presse them to any further matter
in particular concerning the Prince his master, neyther did he desire
I should, but rather attend the States' resolution concerning the
Bohemians ; and by that time, hearing from the Prince Palatin, I
might according to his Majesty's order by your honour's former
letter of the 21st of the last governe myselfe as may be best for the
Prince's service. a Printed in the Carleton Letters (1780), p. 337.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 45
The States have advise that the preparations in all parts against
the Bohemians wilbe in readinesse in May next at the furthest;
against which time, as they will not be wanting to give assistance,
so they desire the Princes of the Union (who are paries proximus)
would in time resolve and putt in execution what belongs unto them
in a matter of that nature, wherein both the libertie of those parts
and the state of religion in generall is interessed, to which effect
they have desired me now by their deputies both to write to his Ma'y
as likewise to the Prince Palatin, to the end some good resolution
may be taken in common for the preservation of the Bohemians."

No. XXVII.
SIR THOMAS WYNN TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Domestic, cv. 117.] [February f, 1619.]
My Lord of Doncaster is to goe Embassador to the princes of
Germany, and soe to Bohemia.

No. XXVIII.

BARON CHRISTOPHER DOHNA TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Holland.] [Heidelberg, ^T^' 1619.]
March 6,
Monsieur,
Estant arrive icy pres de son Altesse, je n'ay point failly de
presenter et vos lettres et vos recomandations, qui ont este' tres-
agreeables. J'ay trouve' les nouvelles de'Boeme telles qu'il n'y a
nulle aparence de paix, ains la guerre continue non obstant les
traitez de composition. On a' acorde une Assemblee des Interposi-
teurs ou Entremetteurs a Eguer, pour le T*T d'Avril, mais ceux qui
1 Printed in the Carleton Letters (1780), p. 338.

46 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
entendent les afaires doutent fort si on y fera gran chose. Vous
obligerez le public infiniment, de faire advancer la resolution de
I'assistance. Car cela viendra fort a propos. Et je vous suplie, de
ne vous laisser etonner par ces bruits de la compositions. Car non-
obstant cette Assemblee, il semble qu'ils se frotteront bien en I'armee;
laissant cependant traitter et consulter les gens de robe. Aussy ne
peut ladite Assemblee sentir si tost son effet, car on veut que toutes
les Provinces des Archiducs d'Autriche, ou il y a des gens de la
Religion, y interviennent, nommement ceux de Silesie, Moravie,
Styrie, Carinthie, &c. II sera done bon de remonter aux Espagnols
que S. A. Palatine nommement a tant fait que les Bohemiens ne
refusent point de traitter. Mais qu'on ne pourra pas permettre que
sous ombre de composition on les engage en un traitte trompeux et
contraire a, leur liberty. Autrement si sous ombre de cette paix
l'Espagnol les veut opprimer, ils seront dechargez devant tout le
monde de se opposer a la tyrannie de tout leur pouvoir.

No. XXIX.

INSTRUCTIONS TO SIR HENRY WOTTON.
[State Papers. Germany.] [March -*T, 1619.]
Being now determined to call you from your residence in Venice,
our pleasure is that in your returne to us you take your journee
through the courts of such Princes and others, as you shall find
named in a postscript to these Instructions.
To them wee send you in quality of our Extraordinarie Ambassa
dor, which stih^ both your letters of credence doe beare, and which
also agreeth with the nature of your imployment. Wee doe there
fore depute you to this charge, as well because wee have in all
your negotiations evidently seene both your zeale to our service
and die care of the common good, (and this wee hope will proovc

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 47
of singular use to both,) as also because your journey lyeing
properly for those parts will by raising lesse noyse awaken the
fewer eyes over you, which both ourselfe and the quality of this
busines doe require.
Seeing the children of the world who inheritt the wisdome
thereof have much prevailed themselves of our owne native subjects
(which should have beene our proper instruments and strength, had
they not been by them seduced and degenerated unnaturally to
assault and weaken us,) by their planting seminaries for those whom
either errour or malice might dissever from us to their party, wheare,
being inebriated with their cupp, they forget all naturall duety
and affections, and are transformed and forged out into emissaries
for the disguising and effectuating of their such designes and pur
poses as are ashamed of the light. Wee therefore herein content
to imitate them (soe farre forth as the simplicity of our profession
may permitt) have thought it expedient for the common cause of
religion and state to erect some places founded for such as shall
be recovered from schism and rebellion, for the reliefe and instruc
tion of those amongst them who shall desire to come out of that
darknes wherein they live. To which proposition wee are mooved,
both out of wisdome and regard to our owne safety, out of charity
to our adversaries themselves, and out of zeale to the publick good.
And some shame it were to us that they who have the worst cause
•should so much excell us in the care of advancing it, that their
superstition should appeare more fervent then our zeale.
Wherefore you shall to these Princes and others in our name
propound, that they joyne with us and together their counsailes and
contribucions to this good worke, which may in time produce soe
many effects profitable to the christian world. All other arguments
arising either from religion or policie, of which this busines is
pregnant enough, as also the farther consulting with those where
you shall negotiate upon the most convenient places, and other
pertinent considerations and circumstances which wilbe incident to
the first foundation of this worke, wee leave to be farther enlarged

48 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
by your discretion as your selfe, upon such occasions as shalbe
offered, shall discover and judge to be most fitting and convenient.
The Princes and Citties of the Union to whom you are to have
letters of credence :
The Prince Elector Palatine,
The Elector of Brandenburg.
The Duke of Wirtemberg,
The Landgrave of Hesse,
The Prince Christianus of Anhalt,
The Marquis of Anspach, ^
The Marquis of Baden,
The Imperiall Citties and Republioues of Norimberg, Ulme,
Strasbourg. g>|

No. XXX.

SIR HENRY WOTTON" TO JAMES 1.
[State Papers. Venice.] [Venice, March £, 1619.]
Most gracious Soveraigne,
I have good occasion to addresse the present unto your Majesties
owne Royal handes. It maie therefore please youre Ma'le to under-.
stande that I was yesterdaie called heare to the Pallace, where by
order of Senate was reade unto me (as theire fashion is when they
will speake determinately) such a serious and fervent acknowledge
ment of theire obligations to your Matie as I have never before
heard anie thinge couched in so sensible and so abundant termes,
grounded up'on advice from theire owne Ambassadour, that youre
Matie had at his instance (fas I conceive them to take it) resolved to
send out some sufficient number of your owne shippes,b as likewise
a Ambassador at Venice.
b The ships were not sent, as the Spanish preparations ceased.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 49
other vessels belonging to the merchants of youre kingdome,
towards the coast of Spaine, to invigilate for the common safetie
over the preparations and designes of that King, who will thereby,
as they well imagine, be soe injealoused, as maie, peradventure,
keepe him from molesting thease nearer seas, which consequently
wil redound (saie they) not onely to the quiet of Italie, but like
wise to much advantage of the German affaires, as meaning that
without some such distraction of the Spanish power an attempt
perchaunce might be made to transport souldiers by the Gulfe to
Treiste in succour of the house of Austria against the Bohemians
whom the United Princes doe favour; and therefore for the fore
said resolution in youre Ma'ie ymplying directly or obliquely the
good of so manie of your freindes, they held themselves eternally
obliged, desiring mee likewise in termes of more then ordinary
vehemencie to concurre with theire Ambassadour in representing
to youre Majestie how tenderly and how sensibly they take this
greate argument of youre love and of youre care towards theire
estate and what a deep impression it hath made in the heartes of
them all. This was the substance, but I must humbly confesse
unto youre Ma*ie mine owne weakenes in the deliverie thereof.
Now having newly received an expresse commaund from youre
Ma'ie to intercede with this State in youre name, about the breeding
of a nearer correspondencie betweene them and the Germane
Princes by reciprocall instruments on each side, and observing by
that they sayd yesterdaie ¦ unto mee what a feeling they had taken
of youre Maties late kindnes, it moved me this verie morning to
returne upon mine owne demaund againe to the Palace, where
after I had dischardged youre Maties counsayle and desire, I con
cluded, that nothing in mine opinion cotdd ever happen more
seasonably, for having but the daie before professed unto mee how
Royal and howe true a freinde they founde your Ma*ie in this tyme
of theire doubtes, there was now a faire opportunitie offered unto
them to showe likewise on theire partes how much they respected
youre Ma'ies propositions, and the freindshippe of youre confederates.
CAMD. SOC. H

50 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
The Duke in his answere, after he had againe very sollemly pro
tested theire obligations to your Matie and theire generall inclination
to that which I had propounded in youre name, fell to aske me what
warrant I had of the like desire in those Princes; I replyed with
beseeching him to consider that this motion came not onely from
youre Ma'ie as you were King of Greate Britaine, or particuler
freinde to this state (which were individuall considerations), but
rather as you stoode in a communitie of affection towards them with
others, and as you were heade of the saide Germane Union, so as
youre Matie in that qualification could not be supposed to have
made a proposition of this kinde, without a well-informed fore
knowledge how the whole bodie did incline, which you had good
opportunitie to understande by a late Ambassadour sent unto youre
Court, namely, the Baron of Danahe from the Electour Palatine
youre sonne in lawe, director of the foresaid Union. Hereupon
the Duke told mee that it should bee putt into speedie consultation
and such care bee had of it, as is due to all your Mattes wise and
christian motions. Now, touching this matter, to speake with
humble freed ome mine owne poore conceipt. I finde by the Count
Palatine's lettres unto mee a good disposition there, and the like
here, by sundrie answeres from the Senate ; but I doubte it will
sticke upon who shall beginne; both parties would be woed for
reputation sake, and the Germane Princes as being manie seeme to
expect the first offer from a single Commonwealthe. On the other
side they would here perchaunce be glad of such a civil excuse (if
the Pope or the King of Spaine should be angrie or jealous at this
forayne amitie) to be able to saie that they were not the seekers.
Betweene which cerimonious respects the substantiall are drowned
both politique and spirituall, I meane, as I knowe youre Majestie
doth, as well the advancement of conscience as of state. Onely
now my hope is that youre Majesties intercession will import a
prioritie, and soe cease that scruple, which I will heere attend and
pursue in the best manner I can.
I must end with mine owne most humble and hartie thanckes

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 51
unto youre Matle about myselfe ; that it hath pleased you (for soe Mr.
Secretarie Naunton hath given me knowledge) to designe mee to
treate in youre Royal name betweene the Emperour and the Bohe
mians ; wherein, besides my zeale to youre Ma'ie and to youre owne
glorie, I have likewise a zeale to the cause, which I hope wilbe some
vaile to myne other infirmities. I doe therefore with all submission
expect the honour of youre Majesties commaundments and instruc
tions both in this and the rest of youre good pleasure, according to
the long devoted fayth and duety of
Your Majesties humble poore vasal,
From Venice this Henry Wotton.
5th of Marche, 1618,
Stile of England.

No. XXXI.
SIR DUDLEY CARLETON TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON. [Extract]
[State Papers. Holland.] [The Hague, March T85, 1619.]
The States are advertised of a suspension of armes betwixt the
Emperor and the Bohemians, and a day appointed for a treatye of
pacification the 12th of y" next month. They heare at the same
time of a succours prepared for the Emperour at the cost of Spaine,
but provided by the Archduke, of 12m foote and 2000 horse, which
makes them here despaire very much of the affaires of the Bohe
mians, in that their suspension of armes will separate their troupes,
and breede a slacknesin those whome they have moved to assist them,
whilst in the meane time their ennemyes will have leysure to prepare
themselves, and bring their forces from remote partes. The suc
cours of this State wilbe (as I conceave) 50m florins a monthe for the
space of a yeare, so to be continued according to occasions, to which
Holland and Zeeland have already consented, and those two Pro
vinces doe comonly give the law to the rest.3
" Printed in the Carleton Letters (1780), p. 347.

52 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS

No. XXXII.
FREDERICK V., ELECTOR PALATINE, TO JAMES I.
[Tanner MSS. Ixxiv. fol. 252.] [Heidelberg, March n, 1619.]
Sire,
Comme ce m'a este' un singulier contentement d'entendre par le
raport bien ample que le Sr Baron de Dona m'a faict a son retour
par deea la digne consideration et declaration qu'il a pleu a Vre
Ma'e faire sur les poincts de sa negotiation, et en outre favorizer par
le Sr Carleton Vtre Ambassadeur celle qu'il avoit pres de Messieurs
les Estats Generaux ; ensemble le bening acceuil dont vous l'avez
voulu honorer, et par ou je recoy nouvelles preuves, tant de vos
bonnes et tres louables intentions envers le bien public, que de vostre
paternelle affection envers moy particulierement. Aussy me sens je
oblige^ d'en remercier bien humblement Vre Ma'e : . et speciale-
ment de ce qu'il luy a pleu avoir aggreable la prorogation de nostre
alliance, dont je donneray advis a, Messieurs les Princes unis, tien-
dray la main a ce qu'ils en donneht et fournissent leur ratification au
temps prefix, et ne perdray cependant les occasions que le temps me
presentera de vous en rendre tres humbles services ; Ne doutant pas
que Vre Ma*e ne soit desja advertie par le dit Sr Carleton, de la
responce provisionelle que lesdits Estats ont donnee au dit Baron de
Dona ; et puisque je suis encores en attente de leur resolution, pour
alors la communicquer a Vtre Mate, et recevoir sur ce son bon conseil,
je ne m'arresteray icy plus long temps sur ce suject.
Quant aux affaires de Boheme Vre Mate scait que pour tenter un
accommodement et pacification, l'Empereur a consenti a, une inter
position de quelques Electeurs de l'Empire et du Due de Bavieres; en
suite de quoy, apres plusieures allees et venues, on a enfin assign^ aux
entremetteurs et aux interessez le quatrieme jour d'Avril prochain
styl ancien, affin de s'assembler a, Eger, ville de Boheme situ^e sur
les frontieres d'Allemagne, et acheminer lesdites affaires a, un traicte

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 53
de paix: y aiant apparence que ladite journee pourra avoir son pro-
grez, et qu'encores que d'avanture lesdites Entremetteurs ne s'y
puissent rendre en personne au commencement si-etre quTils ne
laissent d'y faire les preparatifs par leurs Ambassadeurs : et de mon
cost£ je n'obmettray rien de tout ce qu'y dependra de moy, utile a,
procurer la tranquility commune, me conformant aux bons advis que
Vre Mate m'a departis. Mais d'autant qu'il ny a encorres aucune
suspension d'armes ains qu'au contraire, on travaille chaudement a
faire soubs le nom de l'Empereur des levees de gens de guerre tant a
pied qu'a cheval, en plusieurs endroicts et nommement en Flanders,
Brabant, en la Franche Conte, es pays de Luxenburg, d'Elsce, et
allieurs, outre celles qu'y s'avancent en Espagne et Italie bien que
pour le regard des Bohemiens il ne soit aucunnement de besoing d'un
sy grand armement, veu que • leur armee s'est fort affoiblee par la
contagion quy y a regne\ II est a craindre que la plus grande partie
des Ministres de sa Mate Imple au desceu et pendant l'indisposi-
tion d'icelle, ne portent par la suggestion des Jesuites et autres mal-
veillins, leur conseils aux extremites, et qu'ils ne visent a ce but de
prescrire auxdits Bohemiens des conditions injustes, et insupportables,
affin de tirer l'affaire en longueur, pour les matter, et puis prendre
suject de rompre tout a- coup le fil du traicte' qu'on aura entame", et
les jetter par la force des armes en la derniere periode de leur totale
ruine, ou pour le moins les contraindre de recevoir les conditions
contraires a. leur liberte et incompatibles avec l'exercise de leur Reli
gion, et par consequent desavantageuse a, tous les autres Estats Evan
geliques. J'estime que pour obvier a, tels inconvenients et donner
plus de poids a ladite interposition Vre Ma'e feroit un tresbon ceuvre
et s'accroistroit la louange que ses sainctes et pacifiques intentions
luy ont j'a acquise par tout, s'il luy plaisoit de faire representer le
plustot que possible sera au Roy d'Espagne, tant par votre resident a
Madrid que par celuy d'Espagne estant pres de vous, que tout ainsy
que Vre Mate a faict plusieurs bons devoirs en la Germanie et singu-
lierement envers moy pour aider a faciliter les moyens dudit accom
modement, dont s'en est ensuivi cette preparation, et acheminement

54 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
a un traictd; de mesme aussy Vre Ma'e se veut promettre que le Roy
d'Espagne, qui l'a requise et sollicitee de ce faire, inclinera non
seulement de son coste' a. la voie de douceur, mais aussy y exortera
sa Ma'e Imple la maison d'Austriche et ceux quy la conseillent en cas
occurrences. Et s'il plaisoit a Vie Ma'e de contribuer par son Resi-
dant a, Bruxelles les mesmes bons offices envers l'Archiduc Albert,
y adjoutant ces motives, que la continuation des armes et la violence
ne peut sinon allumer dans l'Empire, au grand dommage tant du
chef que des membres d'iceluy, un feu plus difficile a, esteindre que
ne le pensent peut estre ceux qui le fomentent, attendre qu'en ce cas
d'extremite et d'oppression les Estats de Boheme pourroient trouver
de I'assistance pour opposer la defensive a, une si violente offensive,
je m'asseure que telles admonitions et autres semblables que je remets
a la prudence de V. Ma'e produeroient leurs fruiets au bien dadict
accommodement. Davantage encores que l'offre que le Roy tres-chrestien a faicte,
tant par son residant a Vienne que par le Due de Nevers, d'y entre-
rnettre son nom et authority se soit passee quelques espace de temps
soubs silence, sy-etre que V. Mate pourra voir s'yl luy plait par la
copie cy-jointe d'une lettre escritte na-gueres par ledit Residant a
l'un des directeurs de Boheme (laquelle je receu seulement hier) que
l'Empereur le Roy Ferdinand, et les estats de Boheme mesme
(jacoit que quant aux dits Estats je n'aie pas encores apris leur
declaration sur ce suject,) ont desja accepte ladite office, et que ledit
Due de Nevers et Residant aiant charge de vacquer a cesdites affaires
n'attendent que l'opportunite' de s'y employer. Cest pourquoy je
supplie Vre Mate de considerer sy pour aider a tenir l'equilibre et
favorizer le succez de ladite journee, elle ne trouveroit pas a propos
de deputer et envoyer suivant l'offre qu'elle en a voulu faire quelcun
de sa part ayant cognoissance des affaires, avec de prendre son che-
min par icy pour y recevoir toutte information necessaire, et corre-
spondre avec moy et ceux de mon conseil apportant avec soy outre
son instruction, des lettres de creance a l'Empereur, au Roy Ferdi-

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 55
nand, a ceux du conseil Imple deputes pour assister audite traicte aux
Estats de Boheme, et aux Interposants.
Pour fin de cestes j'y adjouteray encores ce mot, que je suis ad-
verti de la continuation des differents et mesintelligence d'entre les
Roy de Dannemarc et de Sueden au lieu que je me promettois d'ap-
prendre le succez d'une bone reconciliation par I'abouchement
qu'y en avoit este propose, mais quy n'a pas estd effective. Et puis
qu'il importe bien fort a tous les Etats Evangeliques, d'aider a,
addoucir aussy cest affaire, et que le credit et authority de Vre Mate
peut beaucoup envers tous les deux, je vous supplieray bien humble
ment de s'y employer, ce n'est pas que je ne me tienne de la bonne
volonte' de Vre Mate en cest endroit. Ains je pren cette franchise
envers icelle pour luy tesmoigner le desir que j'ay de la seconder en
ce qu'y concerne le repos publiq, et surtout de pouvoir meriter
l'honneur de Vle bienveillance paternelle par les devoirs et respects
que requiert le veu que j'ay faict de demeurer tel que je suis a tous-
jours, Sire, De V. Ma'e, Tres obeissant fils et serviteur,
De Heidelberg, le Frederic, E. P.
xime de Mars, 1619.

No. XXXIII.

FREDERICK V., ELECTOR PALATINE, TO JAMES I.
[Tanner MSS. lxxiv. fol. 250.] [Heidelberg, March £§, 1619.]
Sire,
Depuis l'expedition de ces mienes lettres j'ay receu celles qu'il a
pleu a Vre Ma'e m'escrire, en dates du 21 de Febvrier dernier, et
apres avec beaucoup de contentement, que Vre Ma'e continuant d'em-
brasser fort affectueusement et vivement le bien des affaires de Bo-

56 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
heme, envoye pardeca pour cest effect suivant son offre et declara
tion une sy signalee ambassade en la personne du Sr Viconte de
Doncastre, les merites duquel me sont cognues de longue main. Je
ne faudray en attendant sa venue d'employer tout mon possible,
pour aider a. preparer la voye d'un amiable accommodement, et paci
fication desdites affaires, n'ayant rien en plus grande recommenda
tion que le restablissement et entretenement du repos, et tranquility
publicque, le respect deu aux bienveillantes exhortations qu'il a pleu
a Vre Ma'e adjoute's en sesdites lettres et l'acquit .de l'obligation que
j'ay a. son service, m'asseurant que Vre Mate j ugera selon sa prudence
acoustumee que ce n'est sans apparence que quelques uns prennent
ombrage de tant de preparatifs de guerre quy se fort es endroicts
mentionne"s en mesdites lettres, et lesquelles ainsi que portent les
advis qu'y m'arrivent d'heure a autre se renforcent de plus en plus, au
lieu que cependant ceux quy y travaillent ne parlent que d'accom-
modement, et touttefois semblent viser a. un autre but. Estant a
craindre qu'iceux aiants avec le temps les occasions en main, ils ne
se departissent de leur declaration presente au desavantage de la
liberte", tant des Estats de Boheme, que de tous les Estats Evange"- p
liques, ainsy que plusieurs estiment tels preparatifs de guerre viser
principalement a, se maintenir en la possession de la grandeur et
authorite Imperiale, au cas que Dieu retirast sa Ma'e Imple. Cest
pourquoy je supplieray Vtre Ma'e de considerer si elle n'estime pas
estre d'autant plus a propos de faire envers le Roy d'Espagne et
l'Archiduc Albert les instance, dont j'ay requis V. Ma'e par mesdites
lettres, affin de les disposer a donner lieu a la paix et de tirer d'eux
quelques asseuree declaration sur ce suject, et en cest endroict je prie
le Createur, Sire, vous avoir en sa digne protection. De Heidelberg,
ce xii. de Mars, 1619. De V. Mate Tresobeissant fils et serviteur,
Frideric, E.P.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 51
No. XXXIV.
SIR THOMAS EDMONDES TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Domestic, cvii. 38.] [March $, 1619.]
My Lord of Doncaster maketh accompte to be ready to departe
from hence in the Easter weeke,a in his journey to Germany for the
accommodating of the broyles in Bohemia; but, for that it is
doubted that the Emperour may be dead before his arrivall there, he
caryeth a provisional! instruction to be applied to the present occa-

No. XXXV.

JAMES I. TO THE ESTATES OF BOHEMIA.
[Draft. State Papers. Germany.] [Westminster, March fg, 1619.]
Jacobus Dei gratia Magna? Britannia?, Francias et Hibernise Rex,
Fidei Defensor, etc. Nobilissimis et splendissimis inclyti regni Bo-
hemici Baronibus, equitibus, ac civitatibus, amicis nostris dignis-
simis omnique studio et officio ornandis salutem, et prosperos rerum
successus. Nobilissimi et splendidissimi ordines, amici clarissimi : —
Quod invitos vos arma sumpsisse significatis, quo liceret in pace
vivere fruentibus patrio jure, et privilegiis majorum vestrorum, spes
major nobis oboritus periculosum illud bellum, quod apud vos excita-
tum vicinos quoque populos afflavit, jam posse extingui. Nihil enim
obstare videtur, si vos parati estis honestum bellum honesto otio
commutare, quo minus Ecclesiee et Reipublicse sua restituatur tran-
quillitas, quum et Serenissimus Hispaniarum f ex nostram in ea pace
procuranda operam serio rogaverit. Ne igitur partibus nostris, quibus
jampridem nee sine voluptate assuevimus, nunc deesse videamur, et
vetus conciliandse concordiae studium deserere, quam sanctam tectam
» March 28— April 3.
CAMD. SOC. I

58

LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS

S. R. I. vica-
rios.11

S. R. I."

Cetera coram
intelligere erit
ex ipso vice-
comite, cui
eandem cupi-
mus haberi
fidem qua3
nobis ipsis
prsesentibusdeberetur. lete. Dat. A
clause of cre
dence.1'

Va-

apud Christianos Principes manere primum nostrum votum semper
fuit, secundum vero Isesam quam primum resarciri ; Nobilem hunc et
illustrern virum, Jacobum Haium, Doncastrias Vicecomitem, Consan-
guineum et Consiliarium nostram, compertae nobis fidei et industrial,
quern ad Ccesarem quoq. et regem Ferdinandum Legatum misimus,
vobiscum voluimus communicare consilia, discentem ex vobis quascun-
que ad pacem faciendam conservandamque futura sunt aptiora, et rebus
ipsis pro virili suo parte testantem, quanto nos affectu illustrissimos
Bohemici regni Ordines prosequamur; quos ut militia? laude, ita
observantise in Ccesarem nullis cupimus esse inferiores, easque
asquanimitate sua conditiones pacis mereri quas nee pudeat supre-
mam potestatem dedisse, nee subditos pceniteat accepisse, ut post belli
tempestates sudum videatis et fidum serenum nosque ex vestra? felici-
tatis constantia solidum et duraturum percipiamus gaudium. Datum
e Palatio nostro Westmonasterii vigesimo die Martii Anno 1619.

No. XXXVI.

FREDERICK V-, ELECTOR PALATINE, TO JAMES I.

[Tanner MSS. Ixxiv. fol. 207.]

SlRE,

[Heidelberg, March25' 1619. J
April 1,

Le Roy Ferdinand m'ayant notifie' par ses lettres, outre celles que
j 'avoy desja receues d'ailleurs, le trespas de l'Empereur advenu le
-i-s- de ce mois de Mars entre sept et huict heures du matin apres une
assez longue maladie et indisposition de sa Mate Imple, mon debvoir
me faict en donner a Vre Mate ce mot d'advis, lequel toutefois pourra
avoir este' parvenu (ainsi que je l'estime) par les advertissements de
a These two alterations must have been introduced afterwards, when the news of the
Emperor's death, on $th of March, reached England. The passages in italics are under
scored in the original.
b Marginal alteration.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 59
Bruxelles, puis que le courrier qu'on a envoys en Espagne pour y
porter les nouvelles, y a passe". Et comme un tel accident ne peut
sinon estre suivi d'un grand changement, aussy est il fort incertain sy
la journee qu'on avoit assignee en la ville d'Eger pour faciliter un
accommodement desdites affaires de Boheme par le moyen de l'inter-
position que Vre Ma'e scait aura son progres. Cest pourquoy je
differe d'y envoyer, et plus encores de m'y transporter, jusques a ce
que j'aye entendu les intentions tant dudit Roy Ferdinand, et des
conseillers de feue sadite Mate Imple, que des Estats de Boheme et des
autres entremetteurs touchant ladite interposition ; et je faudray de
tenir Vre Mate advertie de ce que j'en apprendray et des occurrences
que le temps produira. J'ay par cydevant inform^ V1'0 Mate de
la charge et dignite" du vicariat et administration de l'Empire
es pays du Rhin le Suevie et du droict Franconien (du resort
desquels dependent environ les deux tiers de l'Empire) que la
Bulle d'Or defere a, cette Maison Electorale en ce cas d'lnter-
regne, estant chose hors de doubte que, pour prevenir les effects de
ladite administration a, cause de la Religion dont je fay profession,
l'EIecteur de Mayence a l'instigation de ceux quy n'y portent pas
leur affection, diligentera tout aussy tost d'aider a advancer et ar
rester l'Election d'un Roy des Romains incontinent apres le temps
prescrit en ladite Bulle d'Or. Toutefois puisque je me sens oblige
envers ma posterity d'exercer et maintenir au possible un droit et
digrrite sy relevee, je suis delibere de ny rien negliger servant au
bien public et au particulier de cette dite Maison, me promettant de
la bienveillance paternelle de Vre Ma'e qu'il luy plaira ainsy que je
Ten prie bien humblement m'y tendre la main de son prudent con
seil et favorable assistance. Quant aux affaires de Boheme, les
levees faictes soubs le nom de l'Empereur en divers endroicts (selon
que par mes precedentes je' l'ay faict entendre a. V'e Mate,) s'avancent
fort. D'autre coste les Estats de ce Royaume ont en leurs dernieres
assisse prise nouvelle resolution d'employer leur vies biens et moyens
pour opposer de tout leur pouvoir le defensive a une si violente
offensive, cas qu'on ne voulait donner lieu a, l'equite et a la raison ;

60 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
ayant a, ces fins mande' outre leur gendarmerie le soiziesme homme
de chascune ville, et le vingtiesme des communautes du plat pays ;
les seigneurs et la noblesse estant resolus de monter tous a cheval.
Aussy ont lesdits Estats degrades de toutes charges et dignites les
Estats de la Religion Romairie, qu'y se sont separes d'eux, et bannis
ceux quy durant ces guerres se sont retires hors du Royaume avec
confiscation de leurs biens, quy est signe d'une grande resolution
desdits Estats a, contribuer le verd et le sec pour la conservation de
leur liberte et Religion. Le temps esclaircira bientost le trains des-
dites affaires, et le plis que prendront celles de l'Empire apres la
mort de sadite Majeste Imperiale. Davantage j'ay advis de divers
endroicts qu'accause de ces derniers troubles quy se meuvent en
France, le Roy tres chrestien est delibere' de se transporter a Metz
en personne ; qu'y est aussy une circonstance d'importance, et dont
je seray soignieux de signifier la suite a. Vre Mate, laquelle je sup-
plieray m'honorer cependant de la continuation de ses bonnes graces
et de croire que je suis a, tousjours,
Sire, De Votre Majeste
Tres-obeissant ills et serviteur,
Frideric E. P.
De Heidelberg, a 25me de Mars, 1619.

No. XXXVII.
SIR DUDLEY CARLETON TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Holland.] rrru tt March 30, , -n n t
[The Hague, -_ — — — ' 1619.]
April 9,
My Lord of Doncaster will find a house prepared for him and
his followers by the States; and mine likewise putt in the best
readines I shall be able for his Lordship's better commoditie ; to
which effect I write at this present unto him uppon the notice I
take from your Honour of his Lordship's cuming.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 6 1
The two Agents for the Bohemians (of whose cumming I adver
tised your Honour in my last of the 26th of this present and like
wise of theyr proposition to the States) as yet have no answeare, the
consent of this province of Holland touching a supplie of money
being conditioned that the like be performed by his Majesty and
the Princes of the Union : which hath spurred on these Agents to
sollicite my recommendation to his Ma*? in theyr master's favour ;
which as on the one side lean not denie them (and ther fore beseech
your Honour to make theyr humble sute knowen to his Ma'^) so on
the other I have done them the goode office to perswade his Excel
lency and the States to doe that of themselfs as they -thinck fitt to
performe for theyr - preservation ; as his Ma'^ will not be wanting
in that which shall depend uppon him. For yf they will attend
the time of a common consent theyr ayde will be lesse beneficial
then now, when the Bohemians are in most neede. This hastening
of the States resolution is much desired by the Prince Palatin, to
which effect his Highness hath written unto me, in which regard
I conceave it will be agreable to his Ma'?, thoughe I have no
expresse order for the same.

No. XXXVIII.
THE ESTATES OF BOHEMIA SUB UTRAQUE TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Prague, April T25> 1619.]
Serenissime et Potentissime Rex ac Domine, Domine
Clementissime. Magno nobis solatio est, in hac adversa fortuna, qua ob retinen-
dam purae religionis libertatem, Deo ita permittente, conflictamur,
Regia? Majestatis Vestrae benignissime faventis causae nostras sus-
cepta erga nos benevolentia. Ita enim nobis a certis hominibus
diversis ex locis nunciatur, ardentem exitiali bello patriam nostram
Majestati vestrae adeo curae esse, ut laborantis in ea Ecclesia? pericu-

62 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
losum statum sibi quoque aliqua ratione tuendum existimet, proque
eximia pietate vereque regia munificentia sua, nos commoda atn-
plaque pecunia? summa, tamquam belli pro religione gerendi nervis,
sublevare humanissime statuerit.3. Qua? quidem tanta tamque pra?-
stans et eximia subveniendi nobis periclitantibus voluntas si ita nobis
offeretur ut aliqua ex parte meritis quibusdam nostris tribui vide-
retur, haberemus fortassisin quo nobis ipsis jure gratularemur. Sed
cum nihil sit in nobis hujusmodi per quod Regia Majestas Vestra ad
tantam benignitatem adducta esse videatur; agimus quidem ipsi
gratias quantas possumus maximas, sed ita, ut sub hoc ipsa? gratia-
rum actionis gravissimo onere nos paene opprimi fateamur. Tanta
est ista bonitatis et beneficentia? magnitudo, nostraque in referenda
gratia tenuitas. Cum vero praterea, excelsus iste ac liberalis Regia?
Majestatis Vestra? animus juvanda? imprimis Ecclesia?, qua? nunc
apud nos grassantium hostium impetu et machinationibus quasi
procellis tempestatibusque jactatur, commodum spectet et complec-
tatur: agnoscimus in eo singularem immortalis Dei Domini nostri
providentiam, qui, ut nos sibi vere cordi esse ostenderet, etiam ex
remotissimis terris tantum Regem tantumque causae et religionis nos
tra? patronum excitavit: cujus excellenti subsidio et rem religionis
defendere, et vim atque conatum hostilem propulsare facilius liceret.
Postquam igitur divino plane munere id consecuti sumus, quod
principio horum motuum optare magis quam sperare, ob locorum
scilicet maxima intervalla, potuimus, ut in Regia? Majestatis Ves
tra? fidem clientelamque reciperemur, oramus eandem humillimis
animis ut, et eodem erga nos animo esse perseveret et oblata? illius
pecuniae beneficium quam maturrime nobis exhibendum clementem
instituat. In quo Majestas Vestra turn immortali gloria? laudique
sua? turn nostris hoc tempore angustiis et necessitatibus luculenter et
egregie satisfactum est. Et quamquam ilia istius vera? pietatis et
beneficentise sua? fructum a Deo Opt. Max. eum capiet, quo nihil po
test fieri praestantius ; nos tamen quoque debito Regii nominis
cultu et observantia aliisque officiis omnibus, in id dies noctesque
a This sum of money only existed in the imagination of the Bohemians.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 63
incumbemus, ne maximi Regis magnifica liberalitas benignitasque
in mgratos collocata esse umquam cuiquam videatur. Interim pre-
cibus assiduis, ut Majestati Vestra? perpetud bene sit, optataque
ipsius feliciter prospereque eveniat, a caslesti semper numine pete-
mus. Dab. in arce Pragensi xii die Mens. Aprilis. Anno MDCXIX.
Regia? Majes: Vtee devotissimi
Barones, Equites Pragenses, Cutteni, et caeterae Civitates
Regia?, omnes tres Ordines inclyti Regni Bohemise
Evangelicam religionem reformatam profitentes.

No. XXXIX.
SIR JOHN FINETT TO SIR GEORGE CALVERT." [Extract.]
[State Papers. Germany.] [Heidelberg, April u, 1619.]
I can perceyve little motion in this preynce and state farther
then wyshing well to the Boemians cause and provyding for his
owne countryes savegard, if the now assembling powres of the
Archdukes should (to shorten theyr way) force theyr passage
thorowe the skyrtes of his territoryes ; and as for what we talke of
in England, if his Ma** would helpe with men and mony (of the
latter wherof your honor best knowes our wants) how easy it were
to translate the Imperiall crowne from the head of Austria upon
this of the Count Palatin, I see no suche ambition heere, no more
then I heere there is in Saxony ; both loathe to embarke them
selfes in a busynes that is lyke to trayn wyth it a consequence of
continuall trouble and opposition, perhaps for many ages. And as
for the Archduke Albert (howsoever Ferdinand be in so fayr a
way of election as to be possest him self already, if the Estates'
caveat so forceably put in hinder not of the casting voyce of
Bohemia,) I could not heere at Brusselles that he him self (lookyng
* Secretary of State in Lake's place, since February 16th, 1619.

64 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
upon his age and bodyly indisposition) did anyway aspire to yt,
but that the Archduchess swells with the wrong she seemes to have,
that of a Kyng's daughter and syster shee cannot (because her hous-
band wyll not) be made the wyfe of an Emperor.

No. XL.
INSTRUCTIONS TO VISCOUNT DONCASTER.
[Archives of Simancas, 2599, fol. 103.] [Royston, April ^, 1619.]
Ynstruccion que el Rey de Ynglaterra ha dado al Vizconde de
Doncaster, su Embaxador extraordinario que va a Alemania.
Aviendo su Md dado al Vizconde de Doncaster todas las instruc-
ciones necessarias para Alemania juntamente con cartas a los Prin
cipes y Estados della de proposito para, dar breve fin a las rebolu-
ciones y discordias de Bohemia, y para persuadilles a que empleen
todas sus diligencias y medios para que la eleccion del Rey Ferdi
nando venga a tal effecto que sea nombrado por Emperador.
Y despues de aver hecho esto lo parecio a su Md que, aviendo el
mismo recibido los agravios o querellas de los Bohemios, entregarlos
al dicho Vizconde juntamente con su opinion y parecer, y con los
remedios que entiende son necessarios para la composicion de las
contiendas 6 pleitos de Bohemia, del qual parecer y opinion de su
Md se ha mandado al dicho Vizconde se aproveche segun viere que
es licito y conveniente para effecto de apaciguar las discordias que
ay entre los Bohemios y Rey Ferdinando.
Primeramente que por inducimiento y tracas de personas mala-
Quejas de los fectas, como son los Jesuytas entre otros, los de la religion de Bohe-
Bohemios. mja h^ sufH(]o por muy largo tiempo y por muchas vezes muchi-
simos agravios y injurias corriendo peligro de caer devajo de la
sujecion de Roma, no obstante que en el aiio de 1609 y de 1610
se ha servido el Emperador muerto por sus letras patentes, y de

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 65
la general Junta de Estados con parecer publico de entrambas
religiones, se sirvieron de ordenar y confirmar que asi la una como
la otra parte pudiesen quietamente en todo lugar y en todo tiempo
servir a Dios conforme & sus diferentes modos de religion, sin ninguna
interrupcion ni molestia causada de autoridad espiritual o temporal,
como mas largamente consta de las dichas patentes, acuerdos, y orde-
nancas confirmadas y ratificadas por el Emperador Mathias al prin-
cipio quando reyno en Bohemia.
No obstante esto, los dichos adversarios no solamente interrom-
pieron su quietud, reusanda. de firmar los articulos de amistad, mas a
lo contrario por palabras y escrito han publicado ser ellos notorios
herges,yque por estonoavia obligacion de guardalles feeni palabra,
incitando al Magistrado secular contra ellos con manifiesto peligro.
Y aviendo ellos escogido por general consentimiento a ciertas per-
sonas principales por protectores y defensores de nuestra religion, los
dichos adversarios suyos han buscado maliciosamente por varios me-
dios y diligencias con que irniesen en discordios y disinsiones, para
con mas facilidad arruynallos a ellos y a su religion, y con aver pro-
Duesto la indinacion del Emperador, para con algunos los han indu-
cido y persuadido con temor promesas y esperancas de honra y dig-
nidad a que dexasen su religion, contra toda conciencia y conoci-
miento de la verdad, y que se juntasen con ellos en contradicion de
los Bohemios.
Y los dichos adversarios hallaran favor para quitar los oficios a los
capitanes de la profesion de los Bohemios, y para meter en sus
plazas otras de su faccion, con mucha molestia de los de su profe
sion, y ni mas ni menos a sus Ministros se les han quitado sus
oficios, teniendo ellos licencia para predicar en los pueblos, po-
niendo en su lugar a Sacerdotes; como tambien en Praga alcanzaran
los dichos adversarios los principales oficios, de manera que por
amenacas y otros medios atrayeron muchos a su religion.
Con aquellos modos de proceder los Alcaldes y consejo de la
nueva, vieja, y pequefia Praga, siendo todos ellos de la religion refor-
mada, fueron compelidos a juntarse con los demas lugaresde su pro-
CAMD. SOC. K

66 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
fesion, y para sponerse a esta violencia la cual procedio de muchos
caminos y modos astutos sagazmente imbentados contra ellos en esta
junta, de los estados superidres los de la religion por si y en nombre
de los demas, se determinaron a suplicar a su Md Imperial por escrito
los tenga por desculpados si con peligro de sus vidas quieren se cum-
plan perfeciamente las dichas patentes, declarando tambien que les
es prohibido de edificar por autoridad pribata de los adversarios
Yglesias en lugares dependientes de monasterios, no obstante de que
fue acordado por las dichas patentes de otra manera como de ellos
consta. Y aunque los dichos estados estando juntos dieron al Emperador
noticia destos y otros agravios hechos a ellos en derogacion de las
dichas letras patentes, acuerdos, y ordenanzas, esperando buena res-
puesta con tiempo, fue de tal manera tratado el negocio por sus as
tutos adversarios que no fue posible tener respuesta mientras duro la
junta o consejo. El Emperador dixo a Mathias Duque de Turin,
protector de los protestantes, que no ha entendido su peticion de ellos,
y que por esto havia dado autoridad al Obispo de Praga para que
diese fin al negocio; diziendo su Mdque no queria ser mas molestado
con esto ; pero con todo eso a la humilde peticion del dicho duque fue
servido el Emperador de mandar a, su chanciller que pusiese a questa
SU respuesta por escrito ; mas aunque fue pedida con mucha instancia
no se alcanzo. En el interin, por orden del Arzobispo de Praga, la
Yglesia de Cloistergrave, edificada por los protestantes, a la qual obra
muchos Principes electores contribuyeron fue derribada : y por que
los de Brunano quisieron entregar al Abbad aquella yglesia, que les
fue permitido por las ordenanzas de la union, muchos de los princi
pales ciudadanos fueron citados y puestos en la carcel.
Y por quanto ciertos j uezes arbitros en nombre de entrambas partes
se juntaron en Praga, con esperancas de algun buen acuerdo, lo en
que se resolvieron fue que los protestantes hiziesen una humilde su-
plicacion al Emperador y otra al Regente, las quales fueron embia-
das a, Bianna asi para librar los prisioneros ciudadanos de Bruna,
Q.qmo tambien para informar los demas de otras muchas desordenes, y

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 67
para mejor efectuar esto desearan tener otras suplicaciones semejantes
de los estados de Moravia, Silecia, y Lesuitz, y luego despues el Empe
rador embio una carta aspera al Regente, en la qual condeno A los
protectores y a los tres estados ; los puntos de la qual carta son los
siguientes :
Primeramente entendio el Emperador que la Junta se hizo en
derogacion de la suprema autoridad de su imperial y real persona :
Y que asi la destruccion de la yglesia en la ciudad de Cloister-
grabe como el castigo de los desobedientes ciudadanos de la ciudad
de Bruna, perteneciente al monasterio, ha sido por orden y mandato
de su Md Imperial :
Y que havian procedido mas adelante en aquellos casos de lo que
les fue concedido por las patentes letras de su Md 6 de la autoridad
que los dos estados de entrambas religiones tuvieron del Emperador :
Y ultimamente, que havian entretenido estrangeros y aprovechan-
dose dellos en materias ilicitas, y que havian mantenido y defendido
una manifiesta desobediencia y motin contra su Md Imperial, y que
habian procurado defender los en ella, lo qual su Md nunca entendio
especialmente de algunos dellos que irniesen a ser autores de tal
negocio. Ariadiendo por conclusion que avian abusado su favor y cle-
mencia y que havian procedido mas adelante de lo que era razon, y
que por esto avia de mirar su Md mejor en el negocio, y castigar a
cada uno segun merecia, prohibiendo espresamente de hazer seme
jantes juntas, y mandando a los moradores de las ciudades que no se
hallasen presentes en ellas.
Por la qual carta constaba el poco respecto que usaban para con su
Md y los agravios y peligros que se havian hecho a los de la religion,
aviendo supuesto algunas faltas que son capitales segun las leyes del
Reyno por donde pudo acaecer que siendo inotentes fuesen puestos
en quistion y peligro.
Entonces dieron informacion de muchos abusos secretos hechos
fraudalosamente y por fuerza con proposito de desarraygar la reli
gion reformada, 6 por lo menos de arruynar los profesores della, y
ultimamente dezian que procedian contra dos de los principales de la

68

LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS

La intencion
del Rey de
Yngiaterra
sobre las que-
xas de los
Bohemios.

faccion contraria, que son Slauuatan y Borcitana, los quales como
perturbadores les havian quitado los oficios, y que querian castigar a
un cierto hombre que se llama Michna, el qual se ha ausentado, y
todo esto en sentimiento del Emperador, y para el bien y quietud de
la tierra, supuesto que la parte contraria quiere vivir en paz ; y asi
esperan que su Md no sera ofendido, siendole dada verdadera infor-
macion de sus razones, y de la paz que de alii sera continuada en el
Reyno. Siendo estos los principales agravios de los dichos Bohemios, ha
mandado su Md entregarlos al dicho Vizconde de Doncaster, para que
por alii tenga medios para usar dellos segun viere que conviene; y a
fin que su Jornada sea a proposito para lo que se trata su Md es de
opinion, —
Primeramente, que las condiciones de los Jesuytas sean limitadas
dentro de su funcion, y que no se metan en materias de Estado;
Que el Rey Ferdinando se acuerde del juramento que ha hecho en
su coronacion, el qual no debe ser quebrantado;
Y que los protestantes quietamente gozen de las patentes, acuerdos,
y ordenanzas hechas en tiempos pasados en su favor por los Empe-
radores, Reyes de Bohemia: y que se de libertad a los prisioneros
arriba nombrados, con restitucion de sus estados y bienes, con la con-
viniencia posible.
Que cada uno de los officiales de su parte sean puestos en sus
officios como de antes.
Y aviendose hecho esto no duda su Md sino que el negocio tendra
buen subceso,y que se veran las dos partes en paz con bastante poder
de los buenos intercesores que estan de por medio para resister a la
violencia del Turco, enemigo comun de todos ; y su Md ha dado poder
y libertad al dicho Vizconde de Doncaster para afiadir a estas
razones las suyas conforme viere que conviene para las ocasiones que
se ofrecieren.
Dada en Roistona 14 de Abril de 1619.
James R.

between england and germany. 69
Translation op the foregoing.
Instructions given by the King of England to the Viscount
Doncaster, his Ambassador-Extraordinary, going to Germany.
His Majesty having given to the Viscount Doncaster all the
instructions necessary for Germany, together with letters for the
Princes and States of that country, in order to put a speedy end to
the revolutions and discords of Bohemia, and to persuade them to
use every endeavour and means that the election of King Ferdinand
may be so managed that he may be named as Emperor : —
After he had done this, his Majesty determined to deliver to
the said Viscount Doncaster the grievances and complaints of the
Bohemians which he had received, and at the same time to declare
to him his opinion and advice, as well as the remedies which he
understands to be necessary for the adjustment of the opposing
claims put forward in Bohemia ; and his Majesty has commanded
the said Viscount to make use of this opinion and advice as he
shall see it to be lawful and convenient for the pacification of the
quarrel between the Bohemians and King Ferdinand.
In the first place that, by the inducement and plots of evil-disposed
persons, such as, amongst others, are the Jesuits, those of the religion SonB,Ih™ti. of
in Bohemia have suffered for a very long time again and again very
many grievances and injuries, running the risk of falling into sub
jection to Rome, notwithstanding that in the years 1609 and 1610
the late Emperor, by his letters patentb issued in the general diet of
the Estates, with the public approbation of both religions, was
pleased to ordain and confirm that both the one party and the
other should be able in every place and at every time to serve God
in quiet after their different modes of religion, without any inter
ruption or molestation caused by spiritual or temporal authority, as
is shown more at length by the aforesaid patents, agreement,6 and
1 Founded on, but not translated from, the First Apology of the Bohemians.
>> The " Majestatsbrief."
c The agreement between the Estates of the two religions drawn up after the signature
of the " Majestatsbrief."

70 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
ordinances, confirmed and ratified by the Emperor Mathias at the
beginning of his reign in Bohemia.
Notwithstanding this, the aforesaid adversaries not only inter
rupted their quiet, refusing to sign the articles of agreement, but on
the contrary have publicly declared that they are notorious heretics,
and that there is therefore no obligation to keep faith or promise
with them ; inciting the secular Magistracy against them to their
manifest danger.
And they having chosen by general consent certain principal
persons to be the protectors and defenders of our religion, the afore
said adversaries have maliciously sought by various means and
contrivances to bring about discord and dissension, in order they
may with the greater ease ruin them and their religion, and have
held before their eyes the Emperor's indignation, so as to have
induced some by fear, or by promises and hopes of honour and
dignity, to leave their religion, contrary to their conscience and
their knowledge of the truth, and to join with them in opposition
to the Bohemians.
And the aforesaid adversaries found favour so as to deprive of
their offices the chief men a of the confession in Bohemia, and to put
in their places others of their own faction,15 with great molestation
of those of the confession, and in the same way they have taken
away from the ministers their offices, though they had licence to
preach in the towns, and replace them by priests; in Prague
also the aforesaid adversaries have taken possession of the principal
offices, so that by threats and other means they draw over many to
their religion.
By this mode of proceeding the magistrates0 of the old, the new,
and the lesser city of Prague, being all of the Reformed Religion,
were compelled to join with the other cities of their confession, and!
in order to oppose themselves to this violence, which proceeded by
a " Auf Ihrer Kay. May. Herrschafften." Apol. Boh.
b In 1617 Thurn was replaced by Martinitz as Burggrave of Carlstein.
c " Burgermeistern und Raht." Apol. Boh.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 7 1
many ways, and by cunning methods craftily invented against
them , those of the religion in that diet of the superior Estates,a for
themselves and in the name of the remainder, determined to suppli
cate b in writing his Imperial Majesty to hold them free from blame
if at the peril of their lives they requested the complete execution
of the aforesaid patents, declaring also that they are forbidden by
the private authority of their adversaries to build churches in places
depending upon monasteries, notwithstanding that the right was
otherwise desided by the. aforesaid patents, as appears by them.
And, although the aforesaid Estates, being met, informed the
Emperor of these and other injuries done to them in derogation of
the aforesaid letters patent, agreements, and ordinances, hoping in
time for a satisfactory answer, yet the business was so managed by
their crafty adversaries, that it was impossible to have an answer
during the time that the meeting or council lasted. The Emperor
said to Mathias Duke ° of Thurn, protector of the Protestants, that
he had not understood their petition, and that he had therefore
given authority to the Bishop of Prague to bring the business to
a conclusion. The Emperor also said that he did not wish to be
troubled any more with this matter; yet, at the humble suppli
cation of the aforesaid Duke, the Emperor was pleased to command
his Chancellor to put this his answer in writing ; but, although the
fulfilment of this order was earnestly requested, it was not done.
In the meanwhile by the order of the Archbishop of Prague the
church at Klostergrabe, which had been built by the Protestants,
and to which many of the Prince Electors were contributors, was
pulled down; and because the people of Braunau sought to obtain
from the Abbot the delivery of the church, as was permitted to
them by the ordinances made at the accord, many of the principal
townsmen were cited and imprisoned.
1 The Herrenstand and Ritterstand.
b The supplication of the Diet held in 1615 referred to here is printed in " Die Grosse
oder andere Apologia." Beilage, No. 85.
r Count.

72 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
And, certain judges having met at Prague as arbiters in the
name of both parties, with hope of a good agreement, that which
they resolved upon was, that the Protestants should prefer a hum
ble supplication to the Emperor and another to the Regents,3 the
which were sent to Vienna to demand the liberation of the impri
soned townsmen of Braunau, as well as to give information of many
other disorders, and to effect this they desired to have other similar
supplications from the Estates of Moravia, Silesia, and Lusatia, and
immediately afterwards the Emperor sent a harsh letter h to the
Regent, in which he condemned the Protectors and the three
Estates. The chief points of this letter were the following :
In the first place the Emperor considered that the assembly had
met in derogation of the supreme authority of his Imperial and
Royal person : —
That both the destruction of the church in the town of Kloster-
grabe, and the punishment of the disobedient townsmen of Braunau,
a place which belonged to a monastery, had been in consequence of
the orders and commands of His Imperial Majesty : —
That they have proceeded further in these cases than could be
justified by the concessions made in the letters patent of His Majesty,
or by the authority which the two Estates of both religions had from
the Emperor: —
And lastly, that they had maintained strangers,0 and had made
use of them in unlawful matters, and had unanimously defended ma
nifest disobedience and rebellion against His Imperial Majesty; and
had attempted to defend them in it; the which His Majesty never
expected, especially of some of them who had just been the authors
of such a deed ; adding in conclusion that they had abused his
a " Den Herren Statthaltern." Apol. Boh. The ten Regents appointed during the
absence of Mathias.
b Printed in " Dei Andere oder Grosse Apologia." Beilage, No. 99.
c " Frembder Underthanen ;" i.e. vassals of others, viz. of the Archbishop of Prague
and the Abbot of Braunau.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 73
favour and had proceeded further than was right, and that His
Majesty would therefore have to look more closely into the affair,
and to punish every one according to his deserts, expressly prohi
biting the holding of such assemblies, and forbidding the inhabit
ants of the cities to be present at them.
By this letter appeared the little respect which was shown them
by His Majesty, and the injuries and dangers to which those of the
religion were exposed, charges having been brought against them of
certain crimes which are capital by the laws of the realm, whereby
it might happen that, though they were innocent, they might be
brought into question and danger.
Furthermore, they gave information of many secret attacks made
by fraud and force with the intention of rooting out the reformed
religion, or at the least to ruin those who professed it ; and lastly
they said that they proceeded against two of the principal men of the
contrary faction, namely Slawata and Martinitz,a whom as disturbers
of the peace they had deprived of their offices, and that they wished
to punish a certain man named Michna, who was absent, and that
all this was done in good feeling towards the Emperor, and for the
good and quiet of the land, if only the contrary party would be wil
ling to live in peace ; and so they hope that His Majesty will not be
offended, as they had given him a true account of their reasons, and
of the peace which from thenceforth will be kept in the kingdom.
These being the principal grievances of the aforesaid Bohemians, The intention
His Majesty has ordered them to be placed in the hands of the afore- Engiand'upon
said Viscount Doncaster, that he may then take means to use them "j6 c°mpiaints
r. t ¦ 1 • 1 1 1 • ¦ °f the Bohe"
as he may find convenient; and, in order that his journey may mians.
be effectual for the success of his negotiations, His Majesty is of
opinion, — ,
First, that the Jesuits should be limited to their own functions,
and that they should not meddle with matters of state ;
That King Ferdinand should remember the oath which he took
at his coronation, which ought not to be broken;
a Jaroslaw Borzita von Martin it z.
CAMD. SOC. L

74 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
That the Protestants should quietly enjoy the patents, agreements,
and ordinances granted in past times in their favour by the Empe
rors, Kings of Bohemia; and that liberty be given to the above-
mentioned prisoners, with restitution of their estates and goods, as
soon as may be conveniently possible;
That every one of the officials of their party be replaced in their
offices as they were before. '
And when this has been done His Majesty does not doubt that
the business will be brought to a satisfactory conclusion, and that
the two parties will agree together peacefully, sufficient power being
given to the good mediators who are to effect the accommodation
between them, to resist the violence of the Turk, the common
enemy of all: and His Majesty has given authority and liberty to
the aforesaid Viscount Doncaster to add his own arguments to
these, according as he sees fitting under the circumstances which
may arise.
Royston, the 14th of April, 1619.
James R.

No. XLI.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON.
[State Papers. Holland.] [April ?& 1619.]"
My Lord,
I have thus long deseried to returne your Lordship answere to
your loving and curteous letters, because I could not before advertise
you of the time of my departure hence, which is now prefixed about
Saturday next. Your Lordship shall hear from me agayne by the
first commodity I can make after I have taken my leave. In the
meane time it may please you to receyve my humble thankes for
your favor and curtesy, and to beleeve that I doe esteeme it a prin-
cipall happines that I shall have opportunity to confer with you
a A Letter received from Pembroke on the same day and by the same bearer, is of this
date.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 75
about the busnes imposed on me, and receyve your Lordshipes
advise for my government therin before I enter on it, whereupon I
doe build much of my hope of the successe. And so hoping very
shortly to have the honor to see your Lordship, and then to enlarge
further, I humbly rest
Your Lordship's very affectionate and faythfull servant,
Doncaster.
\_Indorsed.~\ From my Lord of Doncaster: received by my Lord
Lisle the 21 of April, 1619.

No. XLII.

JOHN CHAMBERLAIN TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON. [Extract.]
[State Papers, Domestic, cviii. 51.] [London, April %, 1619.]
The Lord Haya prepares to be gon the next weeke for Germanie,
whether Sir Isaac Wake is taking his journey this day by the way
of Antwerp and Brussels, then to Heidelberg and to the rest of the
Princes of the Union. The King knighted him in his bed, and told
him he was the first that ever he made in that manner.

No. XLIII.
SIR DUDLEY CARLETON TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.b [Extract.]
[State Papers. Holland.] [The Hague, APril f ' 1619,]
May 3,
Herewith goeth a letter to his Ma'? from the States written in
favour of the Bohemians, which is recommended to my convayance
1 Doncaster. b Printed in the Carlton Letters.

76 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
by the Bohemian agent, and I am likewise much and often sollicited
by him to further his Master's affaires with his Ma'r according to the
hope was given by the Baron Dona in his passage this way, of an
intention to help them by a lone of the cittie of London, which not
succeeding, the States begin to retract their graunt of a monthly
entertainement, having sent for him two dayes since into theyr
assemblie, to lett him know how little theyr assistance could serve
his master's turne, unlesse they were likewise ayded by his Ma'? and
the Princes of the Union ; yet to Captain Franche they have given
credit for some money for the raysing and arming of 1000 mus-
quetiers.

No. XLIV.
LORD DANVERS TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON. [Extract.]
[State Papers, Domestic, cviii. 82.] r April27, May 7,
The Viscount Doncaster is at this instant stayd for a few dayes
to receave further instruction upon these late advertisements from
the Palsgrave a although he had been dispach[ed] sithence if the
Kings sicknes h[ad not] hindred it.

No. XLV.
JAMES I. TO THE STATES GENERAL OF THE NETHERLANDS.
[Transcripts from the Archives of the Hague, Add. MSS. 17,677, 1, fol. 422.]
[Whitehall, April 30' 1619.]
' May 10,
Jacobus, Dei gratia Magnae Britannia?, Francia?, et Hibernia? Rex,
» On the -^ of May the Dutch Commissioners in England wrote that Plessen had
arrived as an Ambassador from the Elector Palatine, and that his coming has delayed
Doncaster's departure. (Add. MSS. 17,677, I. fol. 418.)

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 77
Fidei Defensor, etc. Illustrissimis atque amplissimis Dominis Confe-
deratarum Provinciarum Ordinibus, amicis suis dignissimis omni-
que officio et studio ornandis, salutem et prosperos rerum successus,
etc. Quum, plurimis inducti causis Bohemicum bellum quod Ger-
mania? tranquillitatem superiore a?state non leviter concussit, ex-
tinctam cupiamus, Nobilem hunc et illustrem virum Jacobum
Haium, Doncastria? Vicecomitem, consanguineum, consiliarium et
familiarem nostrum ab interiore cubiculo, comperta? nobis fidei et
industria?, quern ad Sacri Romani Imperii Vicarios eo praecipue no
mine legatum mittimus, ad amplissimum et splendidissimum vestrum
consessum voluimus accedere ; non solum, ut in transitu nostra
Vobis deferret officia, et Reipublica? Vestra? nobis conjunctissima?
prospera omnia et felicia nostris verbis optaret ; quanquam si nihil
aliud esset, non ingratam fore arbitremur sinceram hanc benevolen
tia? nostra? et amicitios significationem, sed etiam ut de magni mo-
menti rebus, quas ad vestrum senatum nostro jussu referet, benevole
illi et prompte vestrum impertiamini consilium; quod quin. eodem
affectu, quo a vobis jam petitur, pra?stituri sitis nullo modo dubita-
mus, mutuum hie, ut ca?teris in rebus, a vobis expectantes amorem
et studium. Caetera ex ipso Vicecomite licebit scire, et pari omnino
fide, ac si nos ipsi coram loqueremur. Valete, viri illustrissimi, et
prospere feliciterque agite.
Jacobus R.
Dat. e Palatio nostro Westmonasterii,
30° Aprilis, anno 1619.

No. XLVI.
WILLIAM TRUMBULL TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Flanders.] [Brussels, May ^, 1619.]
Sir Isaac Wake passed this way on Monday laste,a and before this
tyme (I hope) is at Cullen. » April 26.
May 6.

78 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. XLVIL
THE ESTATES OF BOHEMIA SUB UTRAQUE TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Prague, May ^, 1619.]
Serenissime et Potentissime Rex ac Domine, Domine Clemen-
tissime. Postquam multorum nunciis literisque cognovimus S[erenissi-
mam] Majestatem Vestram in ista sublimi et ard[ua re]rum max-
imarum administratione, ad cr[udelem et du]ram patria? nostra?,
inque ea afflicta? E[cclesia? con]ditionem oculos deflectere, nobisque
dud[um] pro aris et focis pugnantibus, ac priva[ ? ] bellum
diuturnum gerentibus [ ? ]tis suae a?rario certam aliquam
pec[unia? summam mitte]re velle ; egimus statim Deo Opt. Max.
| ?] maximasque gratias, qui in augustia conj [ectis fi] delibus
suis hanc subitam spem, haecque imp[ sub]sidia commonstra-
verit: egimus quoque per lit [eras Ma]jestati Vestra? easdem sum-
misque animis gr[atias pro] hac summa ac plena pietatis et benefi-
cent[ia? huma]nitate: qua? quidem facit ut Regii Vestr[i ] quasi
luminibus non officiat ista et fortu[nata dig]nitatis altitudo, quo
¦ minus Majestas Ves[tra nobis] respiciat, operaque et gratia, opibus
etiam [nos ser]vandos sublevandosque statuat. R[ogamusj Majes
tatem Vestram ut id quod facere sanctissime decreverat, faciat e6
alacrius quo magis quantum in subveniendi celeritate situm sit
intelligat. Verum sintne ea? litera? satis feliciter perlata?, ignora
mus : neque liberalis hujus et munifica? vereque regia? voluntatis
effectum hucusque vidimus. Constituimus igitur ad Majestatem
Vestram has alteras dare literas ; non ut eam hujus benignissime
oblati officii admoneremus, quam a succurrendi periclitantibus vera?
ecclesia? membris laudabili et pra?claro proposito latum unguem non
discessuram certo persuasum habemus : sed ut aliqua extaret nos-
trorum animorum significatio si forte priores ilia? literae interierint,
quanti faciamus Regis maximi et praestantissimi propensam ad nos

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 79
fovendos ac sustentandos voluntatem. Neque enim silentio prsete-
riri debet ista Majestatis Vestra? erga nos dementia, neque nos
committere decet, ut donationibus promissionem acceptio beneficii
nobis inurbane tacentibus pra?veniat. Ipsum jam beneficium ad
non longum tempus spe magna expectabimus, contendemusque
vicissim omni ope, atque elaborabemus ut nostra quoque officia et
studia erga Majestatem Vestram, si minus prater status nostri medi-
ocritatem eximpa] magnaque fuerint, a gratissimis tamen menti-
bus profecta videantur. Deus Regiam Majestatem Vestram ut
semper cura custodiaque tueatur. Dat. in arce Pragensi die xv
mens. Maii, anno M.D.CXix. Sereniss. Regia? Majest. Vre devotissimi
Barones, Equites, Pragen[ses, Cutteni] ca?tera?que
civitates Regia?, [omnes tres] Ordines Inclyti Regni
Bohe[mia? Evangejlicam Religionem reformatam
[profitentes].

No. XL VIII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR GEORGE CALVERT.
[State Papers. Flanders.] [Canterbury, May T«6, 1619.]
Right Honorable,
Your two letters of the 4th of this present came safely to my
hands at Gravesend the next day, at such a distance one after the
other as I suppose they were written, which I doe specifie thus
particularly to doe the messengers right.
For them both, and your affectionate care expressed in them to
let me understand his Majesties commandements both speedily and
fully, I am first to give you many humble and hearty thankes, and
then earnestly to pray the continuance of your favour in that kinde
hereafter, then which there can be none of stronger obligation
to me.
And now to answere your last first, though I presume his Ma1*

80 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
hath long ere this understood his commandements to hasten me
were given after my departure, yet I beseech you to give his
Highnes satisfaction therein from my owne hand, with assurance
that, if his Ma'y may please to forgive my other errors in this
great employment, I shall never aske his pardon for my indiligence,
and for my present justification in that poynt it may please you,
Sir, to remember his Ma'y that he never spake word to me of those
Jewells till Sunday. On Munday my Lord Chamberlayne and the
other Commissioners for that busines were at Theobaldes to receyve
the French Ambassador, which occasioned my stay that night; and
on Tuesday, though I might have pretended my attending the
returne of those Jewells from Court, and knew the shippe appoynted
for my transportation was still held in the river by vehement
contrary windes, yet for his Ma'ies better satisfaction I resolved to
set forward rather then linger any time at London, though I could
have there spent it more to my contentment and advantage then I
can lying idly here, as I feare I shall doe yet some dayes.
I must now goe backe to your former letter, though it be against
my heart, as appeares by my deferring to come to it. The place
where that unlucky letter from Mr Trumbull was found hath now
put me in remembrance that upon Saturday, when I presented my
selfe to receyve his Majesties directions to the contents, I had
taken the wicked paper out of my pocket in a readines, and his
Ma*y commanding me at the instant to fetch him a drinke, I layd
it downe on the table, and there his Ma'ies sudden going abroad
made me forget it then and ever since. I doe- here inclosed returne
it to you, wishing you better fortune in the keeping thereof, and
at my arrivall at Brusselles will give his Ma'? a further accompt of
his commandements therein.
Touching the overture made by the French Ambassador, let me
pray you to present my most humble thankes to his Ma*? for
honoring me with so early advertisement thereof, and rclye upon
your timely remembrance for my future information of the pro-
gresse and conclusion of that motion, if there result any more then

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 81
you have already delivered unto me, which I shall not fayle fayth-
fully to observe.
And so praying God to continue his Ma'? in perfect health and
happines, wherein my owne is included, I wishe you all your owne
wishes, and rest Your most affectionate tru friende and servant,
Doncaster.
Canterbury, this 6th May, 1619.

No. XLIX.

NATHANIEL BRENT TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Domestic, cix. 19.] [May fg, 1619.]
My Lord of Doncaster set forward for Bohemia on Tuesday
night a very late, or on Wednesday in the morning, exceeding
early. Some thinke his journie wil cost his Matie 30000 K at the
least, wherof he hath receaved good part alreadie.

No. L.
SIR GEORGE CALVERT TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Holland.] [May A, 1619.]
Some few days since His Ma'ie received/ Letter from the States
generall in favour of the Bohemians, tou/ ing which businesse my
Lord of Doncaster is furnished with ins/ dons sufficyent from his
Ma'ie, as hee passeth by that way. Bu/ the meane time his Ma*ie
hath commaunded mee to signify unto you his pleasure that to the
' May TV
CAMD. SOC. M

82 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
proposicion which the States have made for some succours and sup
port from his Mati0 to the Bohemians, hee would have you lett them
knowe, as you see fitt occasion, that hee cannot yet assist them
either with forces or money, in the tearmes hee now stands: for it is
well knowne that at the earnest request of the King of Spaine, and
seconded since with a desire from the Bohemians themselves, and
from the Count Palatine, his Ma'ie hath taken upon him to bee a
mediator of peace betweene King Ferdinand and them, and, that
depending, if his Ma'io should supply them with forces or money,
hee should make himself a party, and not indifferent for such an
office, wherein his honour is deepely engaged.

No. LI.
SIR GEORGE CALVERT TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON.
[State Papers. Holland.] [Theobalds, May & 1619.]
My Lord,
If by contrariety of wynds it should so fall out that my Lo. of
Doncaster should resolve to passe immediately for Brusselles, and
not come at all through the United Provinces; as for his speedier
dispatch his Ma'y hath commaunded him to do, rather then to loose
any tyme, the affaires of the Bohemians requiring necessarily his
instant repaire thether; in that case he is directed by his Ma'? to
send unto you as well his letters to the States, and to the Prince of
Orange, as also the Instructions which he received from his Ma'? for
his negotiation there with the Prince of Orange and them, which in
his steed you are to take as directions to yourself, and to proceade
with them accordingly, as likewise to deliver his Mata letters to the
Prince and the States which my Lord of Doncaster will send you,
and to make his excuse for his not passing that way in regard of the
great diligence he is to make to render himself in Germany with all

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 83
speede possible. And, this being as much as at this present I have
to recommend unto you, I rest
Your Lordshipp's very assured friend,
Geo. Calvert.
Theobaldes, 9 May, 1619.

No. LII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR GEORGE CALVERT.
[State Papers. Flanders.] [Canterbury, May Jg, 1619.]
Sir,
Before your. last of the 9th of this moneth came to my handes
this 10th in the morning, the winde is turned so well about that I
hope the ship appoynted to transport me is ere this well on the way
to Margate. Yet for more surety I have dispatched a messenger
expressly to the vice admirall, letting him know the commandement
I have receyved from his Ma*y unles he can be this night at Margate,
and another to the barke that is loaden with my baggage (which
hath beene likewise all this while held in the Thames) requyring my
servants to make all possible speede to Flushing, and unles they
receyve a countermand from me to goe from thence to Antwerpe,
and so to meete me at Brussells.
Myself am in the meane time this afternoone resolved to goe to
Dover, and there to attend the returne of my messengers, which I
hope will soone after overtake me. Thus much it may please you,
Sir, to let his Ma*? understand for his satisfaction of my diligence,
and so I rest Your most affectionate frende and servant,
Doncaster.
Canterbury, this 10 May 1619.

84 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. LI1I.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON.
[State Papers. Holland.] [Dover, May $, 1619.]
My Lord,
After I had lyen here neere the sea side six or seven dayes in
in expectation of a winde to transport me to Flushing and thence to
the Haghe, I have receyved a commaundement from his Ma4? to
passe over to Calais, and from thence to make all the speede I may
to Brusselles, and so forward on my journey.
Which, as it was and is a great griefe to me, in respect of the
losse I shall thereby sustayne many wayes, but principally in my
affectionate desire to have kissed your Lordship's handes and beene
advised by you how to beare myselfe under the waighty affayres
now on my arme, so on the contrary I cannot but rejoice, in con
templation of the good of his Maties service, that those things which
I had in charge to deliver to the States will by this occasion fall
into the managing of a hand both by nature and practice infinitely
more dextrous. For his Majesties pleasure is (as will more fully
appeare to your Lordship by the inclosed from Mr. Secretary Cal
vert) that your Lordship doe first excuse unto the States my not
coming to them according to their expectation and his Maj"08 pur
pose, upon the unhappy contrariety of windes and necessity of my
making all possible speede into Germany, having bene already long
retarded upon many occasions, and then that your Lordship doe fur
ther represent unto them as much as I should have done yf I had
found opportunity. And to that end I am commanded both to
send unto your Lordship his Maties letters to the States and the
Prince of Orange (which I doe here inclose) and also to acquaint
you with all the instructions towards them I receaved from his Maty
by word of mouth, which to my best remembrance were these:
1. First, to have saluted the States from his Ma'? in the most
affectionate manner, wishing unto them all prosperity, &c.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 85
2. Secondly, to have given them many hearty thankes for their
tender care of his Maties health, and loving congratulation of his
happy recovery.
3. Thirdly, to have made them understand how much discontent
ment his Ma*y hath receyved from the disagreement of their mer
chants and his after so long and paynefull a treaty of accord."
But that now his Maties health will permitt him to hearken agayne
to their differences, his Ma'y is nothing doubtfull but he shalbe able
to compound them with equity, and, their association being a matter
that so neerely and highly concernes the weale of both countries, his
Ma'y will neither spare any travayle to effect it, nor be in any thing
more partiall to either side, 'then if they were both his owne sub-
jectes. [4.] Fourthly, to have communicated with them his Maties intention
in sending me on this Ambassadge into Germany, which is to me
diate a peace in Bohemia, whereunto his Ma'y is moved at the ear
nest request of the King of Spayne concurring with his private affec
tion to the good of Christendome, and of the Empire in speciall, for
other waighty reasons, and that of their neighborhood not the least.
That his Ma'^ shall thinke it a great honor, and happines to him, if
he can bring this good worke to passe by his unworthy instrument,
upon such conditions as may be honourable for King Ferdinand,
and safe for the States of that countrey. But, in case his endeavours
shall not take this wished effect, that then, as his Ma'y had com
manded me now at my entrance on this high employment to be
informed and advised by the States, which your Lordship is now to
doe more happily in my stead, so if the issue should be so unhappy,
his Ma'y will then also consult with them what further resolution
is fitt to be taken.
Lastly, to have saluted the Prince of Orange from his Ma'^ with
his most affectionate commendations, and after hearty congratula
tions for the happy change his wisedome and courage hath induced
in that State, to have insinuated the confidence his Ma*"5 hath to
a On the East India Trade. The treaty was finally signed on the T| of June.

86 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
receyve hereafter better satisfaction thence, and to be cleared that
their former misunderstandings proceeded from no ill disposition in
that people towardes his Ma'», but from the malignity of those evill
instruments a which through their owne faults and his vertue are
now removed. These, my Lord, are the rude heades of his Ma"03
commandements, which I leave to your polishing, who can reduce
them neerer to the life they had from his Maties sacred lippes then
my pen, which shall now trouble your Lordship no longer, after I
have prayed you when you have given his Ma'y an accompt hereof
to honor me also with so much as may have any influence into my
negotiation, and this with such expedition that if it be possible I
may receyve it before my departure from Brusselles, where I will
attend this favor from you and your commandements as
Your Lo. most humble and most affectionate servant,
Doncaster.
Douer, 12th May,
1619.
My Lord, your Lordship hath here opportunity to oblige me if it
may please you to descend so low as to present my regret unto the
States that I misse the honor to be acknowledged by them as one of
their most affectionate and humble servants. The copy of his Maties
letters to them was not delivered me, by a mistake of the Secretary
for the Latin tongue, but I have prayed Mr. Secretary Naunton to
send it directly to your Lordship. The copy of the other to the
Prince of Orange your Lo. here receyveth.

No. LIV.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON.
[Holograph. State Papers. Holland.] [Dover, May J|, 1619.]
My Lord,
Now that by this packet you have all consernes the publique,
a Barneveldt and the Arminians.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 87
this inclosed shall present unto you what I had in charge for your
Lordship's pryvat, being desyrous for so worthy an instrument in
his Ma*lea servinge to be and prove in deed an Evangelist, for wich
cause I did desire to kno his M'ies resolutione to warts your Lordship,
who comandid me to assure you that he had your Lordship's great
parts and servisis in highe estimation, wich he would mak appeir to
your selfe, and to me as witnes of his royall promes, wiche to me was
never broken by him, suche testimony as should be worthy of the
gever and resever. This in haist from him that is infinitly your
Lordship's humble servant,
Doncaster.
Dover the tuelt of May.

No. LV.
SIR ISAAC WAKE TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Heidelberg, May ia, 1619.]
Right Honorable,
I made so much hast to come hither, that I rested in no place
more than a night betwixt London and this towne, and it was my
ill fortune to come to soone. For I found the Prince and his
Highness absent at Manohem, whether they were gone to accom
pany the Lady Harrington in her journey for England, so that I
was forced to languish here three dayes, and to lose so much time
which was very pretious unto me, considering the activity of this
season. As soone as their Highnesses did returne, I had audience of
them, and have ever since been treated with such extraordinary
respect that I should be glad your Honour would procure his Matio
to take notice thereof. For, notwithstanding that I had no quality
at all to dignifye mee, they have been pleased to lodge and defray

88 LETTERS illustrating the relations
me in the Court, and to grant mee free accesse unto their persons
without any reservation, and in matter of negotiation his Highness
hath proceeded with mee with all maner of freedom and confidence,
which I do account the greatest obligation of all the rest.
The Bohemians (as this Prince doth tel mee) are very strong,
their army consisting of 30m foot, and almost 8m horse. Moravia
is nowe wholy at their devotion, and it is not likely that province
will start any more, considering that the Jesuites are nowe banished
from thence, the Abbots and Popish Prelates brought under the
obedience of the temporall magistrats, the Cardinal Dietristairi a
confined to his house, and such of the Barons restrained as were
averse or suspected. The Upper Austria (which did consist most
of Papists) is joined with the Bohemians in a stout association, and
it is presumed that the Lower Austria, where the Protestants have
the upper hand, will soone followe the example. In Stiria and
Carinthia many of the nobility and gentry have combined them
selves together for the defence of the reformed religion and the
liberties of the country, and, if a revolt do insue in those parts, the
Archduke Ferdinand may thank himselfe, in that he hath unseason
ably urged those States to accept of the Jesuites as the fourth estat
dupais, when as hitherto those provinces have never acknowledged
but the clergy, nobility, and gentry for les trois estats. I know not,
at this distance, howe boldly I may affirme the truth of these
advertisements, for I take them as they are written to this Prince
from his correspondents in those parts. But it is likely that the
Bohemians have as yet the better of the game, in that they are
about to beseige Budweis, which doth argue that they are masters
of the feilde. On the other side, the Austriaci are not wanting to
helpe themselfes, for 1000 horse are already passed out of Flanders
to their succor, and 8m Wallons are now marching through Alsatia,
to joine with the Count of Burquoy.
The Archbishop of Mentz hath summoned the Imperiall Dyet at
Francfurt against the 12th of July, and he hath cited the Arch-
a Dietrichstein.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 89
duke Ferdinand to appeare as King of Bohemia. But it is thought
the. States of Bohemia will protest against him, and send Commis
sioners unto the Dyet, with power to dispose of that voice, as hath
been donne heretofore uppon the like occasions. The Princes of
the Union have prevailed so far with the Duke of Saxony, as that
he hath lately written a letter to the Bishop of Mentz, wherein he
doth desire him to call an assembly of the Electors before the
Imperiall Dyet, that the controversy of the Bohemians may first
be decided, and the Electors know whom to accept for their prin
cipal associat. But the Bishop hath absolutely rejected this motion,
alleaging that no doubt ought to be made of Ferdinand's right to
that crowne ; so that it should seeme they mean to cary the
buisnes d hault lut ; and it is feared that Saxony will not resent
this afront. This being all that I have learned in these parts worth
your Honour's knowledge, I humbly take leave, and rest,
Your Honour's most faithfully to command,
Isaac Wake.
From Heidelberg this 12 of May,
1619. st°. vet.

No. LVI.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Flanders.] [Calais, May Jj}, 1619.]
Right Honourable,
By the commodity of the returne of this worthy gentleman, the
vice-admirall of the narrow seas, who hath Jionored my passage
with his person, though he could not with the shippe made ready
for me, I am glad to advertise you of my safe arrivall at Calais,
where, though I were altogether unexpected, yet so soone as the
governor, Monsr d'Arquian, heard of my being in towne, he came
to salute me, and used me with all sort of humanity, and some very
camd. soc. N

90 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
extraordinary, as the leading me with many of my company into
the cittadell, which is here an unusuall curtesy to strangers of what
quality soever.
If the French Ambassadour have not yet taken leave, I should
be glad his Ma'y would be pleased to take notice of thus much to
him, but to conceale from him the author of the intelligence. The
governor hath in confidence deposed with me of the present estate
of the affayres of this Kingdome, which he pretendeth to have
newly receyved from the Kinges owne letters.
The summe wherof is, that the Queene mother, finding the con
ditions she formerly demanded likely to be granted her without any
great difficulty in respect of the King her sonnes good inclination
to give her all reasonable contentment, hath thereupon taken occa
sion to enhanse them to her further advantage, requiring now to
have the government of Anjou, and of the cittadell of Angiers and
Pont d'Arce, which keepes the whole river of Loyre in command,
together with the government of Guiene, also projecting thereby
to gayne a powerfull hand in those parts through the bordering of
those provinces upon Angolesme and Augoulmois, whereof the
Duke of Espernon is governor.
The King is very much offended and troubled herewith, and he
on the other side for the establishing of his Luynes is desirous to
seate him in the government of Picardie, as joyning to that he
hath already of the Isle of France, that so, his father in law being
governor of Amiens, they may be a mutuall strength one to
another in these quarters. And to this purpose the Duke of
Longueville is effectually dealt withall to accept of Normandie in
exchange of that his goverment, and is likely to embrace the con
dition. Yet notwithstanding all this affectionate care of the Kinges
to preserve his favorite's greatnes, it is here generally thought, and
rather hoped then feared, that he will runne the Mareschall
d'Ancre's fortune, as he is sayd to have done too many of his
courses. This accompt I thought myselfe bound to give his Ma'? of the

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 91
half day I spend here to repose myselfe and my company after our
commeng from sea, intending to dine to morrow at Grewling, if it
please God, to whose blessed protection I commend you and
myselfe. Your most affectionate and faythfull servant,
Doncaster.
Calais, this 13 May, 1619.
[Postscript.'] The King is at Tours with an army of 25000 foote,
besides 3000 horse, with the army which Monsr de Mayne hath in
Guyen of 8000 foote and 500 horse. Monsr d'Espernon hath only
5000 foote and 1000 horse as I am advertised.

No. LVII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON.
[State Papers. Holland.] [Calais, May JJ, 1619.]
My Lord,
I cannot satisfye my griefe with, complayning once, and that by
occasion of my ill fortune in missing the honor of wayting on your
[Lordship] in your kingdome now this second time, and will there
fore trouble your Lordship w[ith] thus much more upon no fur
ther busines, but only to assure you that as the ill hap is, so the
losse shall be only mine. For I pray your Lordshippe to beleeve
that I am not so lefthanded an interpreter of favors as not to esteeme
my selfe equally obliged to your Lordship fqr the honor I under
stand you intended to have done me above my merit, as if you had
performed it in effect. This if your Lordship doe now doubt of
you shall be satisfied to be  whensoever I may find the
happines  : your commandment to give you a demons [tra-

92 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
tion] thereof by my service. Meane while it may please you to
credit Your Lordship's most affectionate and humble servant,
Doncaster.
Calais, 13th May, 1619.
My Lord, I have taken the boldnes to write a few lines to the
Prince of Orange and his brother Count Henry, which I pray your
Lordship to deliver by one of your servants.

No. LVIII.
SIR DUDLEY CARLETON TO SIR GEORGE CALVERT. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Holland.] [The Hague, May if, 1619.]
With your honor's letters of comission bearing date at Theobalds
the 9th of this present, I receaved others of instruction from my
Lord of Doncaster from Dover and Callais of the 12th and 13th,
all which with his Mats letters to the States Generall- and the
Prince of Orange came to my handes the 16th, and accordingly
the day following I had audience of the States and his Excellency.
I began with the States with the presentation of my Lord of Don
caster's letters of credence, and alleadging the reasons of his taking
another way into Germany, and then indeavoured to make appeare
unto them as cleare as I could, taking lumen ex lumine, his Mats
affection : first, by his kind salutacons ; next, by his gratious accep
tance of their congratulating his recovery ; thirdly, by his good
intention in the business of the East Indies marchants ; and lastly,
by his confidence in communicating unto them the subject of my
Lord of Doncaster's Ambassage, which, as likewise the other points,
I expressed in those termes, as by his Lordship was prescribed unto
me; according as your honor may please to see in the extract of his

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 93
lordship's letters. The three first points answeared with due and
ample acknowledgement of his Ma*9 favor, insisting much in that
of the marchants of the East Indyes, which they earnestly recom-
ended to my furtherance with his Ma'? ; but in the last it seemes
they expected more then I had to deliver, for, howsoever they
approved his Ma'9 princely care of conducting the affaires of Bohe
mia to a peaceable end by way of Ambassage, yet it seemes both
their judgement and affection leades them to have the Bohemians
supported by some real assistance, to which purpose they declared
unto me what resolution they had taken in giving a monthly ayde
of money, and demanded of me whether I had any further matter
to open unto them of his Ma'3 intention in conformitie to the hope
that was given by the Baron Dona at his last returne this way out
of England; which when I sayde I had not, but that his Ma'? was
first to be informed by my Lord of Doncaster of the state of those
affaires, and that then (in case his indeavours to make such a peace
which might be honorable for King Ferdinand and safe for the
States of that country should not take this wished effect,) he would
advise with them de agendis, they seemed unto me rather answeared
then satisfied, for they apprehend that King Ferdinand's peace with
the Bohemians carries by consequence the Imperial crowne that
way, and, he being a stirring Prince and ruled by the Jesuits, they
dowbt will breede more businesse in Europe then the two last
Emperors, which were both faineants. This his Ex0^ plainly deli
vered unto me, but the States went not so far ; only they indea
voured to make appeare by the advertisements they have of the
conjunction of the' Moravians to the Bohemians, and a readiness
of other peoples adjoyning to runne the same course, that there is
great likelyhood of an important alteration in those parts for the
good of Europe, and advancement of religion, yf it were well che
rished and timely seconded.

94 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. LIX.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Flanders.] [Brussels, Ma?22' 1619.]
June 1,
Right Honorable,
By your letters of the 10th of this moneth, which I recayved
here late yesternight the 21st of the same, I perceyve both those
I sent to you from Canterbury came safely to your handes. And
I have no doubt of two I wrat to you afterwards, one from Dover
by the post (wherein I took notice of the receipt of your cypher),
and another from Calais by the Vice-admirall, although I finde it
expedient to make this mention of them, because if they ran no
misfortune they should have beene delivered to you much before
this bearer's departure from Greenwich, by whom I have receyved
no one word from you, though he sayth your servants were ac
quainted with his dispatching towards me.
The occasion Mr Trumbull hath to returne him presently into
England obligeth me to put you to this trouble, which I would
otherwise have forborne for a time, having as yet nothing further
to advertise you then of my safe arrivall at Bruxelles the 21st of
this moneth, and of the great honor hath beene already done and
more intended to his Ma'' in my person. For I was very sollemnly
met without the towne by the S1' de Maries, chef des finances,
appoynted to receyve me, being assisted by the Comte d'Embden,
the Comte de Solse, the Sr de Coupigny, second chef des finances,
and accompanied with a good number of the principall nobility in
towne, wayted on with some 25 or 30 coaches to accommodate my
trayne at my entrance. The Sr de Maries offered and indeede
pressed to have conducted me to the Prince of Orange his house,
which was here provided and exceedingly well furnished to have
lodged me and my company, where there was also supper made

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 95
ready for me, and order given for the continuance of that enter-
taynment during my abode here. But because the Comte de
Noyell was not lodged nor defrayed in England, I thought it more
for his Ma'les honor, and therefore my duty, handsomely and respect
ively to decline the acceptance of those favours, by pretending the
promise I had long since made to put myselfe under my master's
agent's roofe, where I had accordingly already bestowed my bag
gage. And, as I am nothing doubtfull but his Ma^ will be well
pleased with my refusall, so I must confesse their offer of these
curtesyes was the greater contentment to me, because I thereby
receyved cleare and full satisfaction that the shew of neglect I
found in my passage through this countrey, wherein I have not
beene so much as saluted by the governor of any towne, no nor by
the meanest burgomaistre till I came to Antwerp (and there not
by the Governor), proceeded from no want of due respect towards
his Ma'y in these Princes, but was occasioned by my taking another
way hither then was expected, and the affectation of state, more
then civility in this people, which is the hardest interpretation
that I did or that I thinke ought to be made of it. And here the
nice termes his Ma*? standeth in with the French King, — so farre
as is here, and I am bound to take notice of them, — makes it neces
sary to acquaint you with a rencontre I had at Antwerp; where,
being enforced to stay two dayes for my baggage, yet without
any losse of time in respect of the Archduke's present sicknes, it
happened that the Comte de Roche-guyon, Ambassador-extra
ordinary from that King to these Princ.es, returning into France
post, came also the first day after noone to that citty, and thought to
have lodged in the inne I had taken up before, whereby, though
he could not but knowe of my being in towne, and I needed not
to take notice of his, yet he sent not any man expresly to me, but
late in the evening came one of his trayne, and charging himself
with a commandement to present the Baron de Tour his recom
mendations to me, he let me know as of himselfe of that Ambas
sador's arrivall, and a distemper he had gotten by the way, which

96 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
would constrayne him to keepe his chamber, and take phisicke all
the next day. This I tooke to be an artifice to draw me to give
him the first visit, and because the rule which in those poyntes is
generall, that the last come ought to be first visited, obliged him
rather to begin that office, in my construction, as havinge beene so
long before me in these partes, then me for being a day before
him in the towne, I resolved to stand out with him in the cere
mony, least lookers on might make a wrong judgement of my
forwardnes; and yet, to prevent the danger of any unkindnes, I
sent a gentleman to see him the next day, and to make him an
offer of my phisitian and cookes, if his owne had not yet overtaken
him. He returned me thankes and the visit by his maistre d'hostel
and the best of his company late agayne that night; the next
morning I rejoyned the complement by Sr Robert Knollys,
attended with five or six gentlemen, laying my forbearance to
visite him in person upon his indisposition the day before and the
necessity of my going away early that morning, and in this manner
we parted without comming together.
I presume you have ere this receyved an accompt from Sr
Dudley Carleton (as I have done) of his discharge of that part of
his Ma*ies commandements which concerned the States and the
Prince of Orange, wherein I shall be very glad to hear that his
Ma*7 is satisfied with the instructions I gave him.
I feare the Archduke's sicknes will loose me here foure or five
dayes before my audience, which I will endeavour to regayne by
all possible diligence in my journey afterwards, and I wish my
hearty thanks to God and to you for giving me such particular
knowledge of his Ma'iea increase in health and strength, which
I beseech God dayly to continue. I take leave and rest
Your most affectionate friend and
faythfull humble servant,
Doncaster.
Bruxells, 22 May, 1619, old style.

- BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 97
No. LX.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON.
[State Papers. Holland.] [Brussels, ^ f • 1619.]
June o,
My Lord,
I have thus long attended some such commodity as this to give
your Lordship an accompt of the receipt of your letters of the 16th
and 17th of this moneth, together with my humble thankes for them,
and the honor it pleased yow to doe me in the delivering of mine;
but most especially for offering me some meanes to acknowledge
these and many other your favors by sending me your nephew, on
whose person I may expresse the affection I beare your Lordship.
I have gladly entertayned him for this journey in the quality that
your Lordship and he desire, and at my returne shall use him for a
guide to bringe me to your Lordship, that I may then at last have
the happines of kissing your handes and receyving your commande
ments for England, which no friends you have there shall embrace
with more zele or execute more faythfully to the uttermost of his
power then Your Lordship's most affectionate and humble servant,
Doncaster.
Bruxelles, 24th May, stilo veteri,
1619.

No. LXL
SIR GEORGE CALVERT TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Holland.] May 29,
[T * a ' 1619.]
LJune 8, J
I did in one day receive both your letters of the 18th and 20th of
May, and have acquaynted his Ma'? with the contents thereof, who
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98 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
is well satisfyed with your proceeding in the part you had to handle
of my Lord of Doncaster's ambassage, and I have nothing to recom
mend unto your Lordship from his Ma'? by way of further instruc
tion touching that businesse. Howsoever the States there appre
hend the consequence of the peace betwixt King Ferdinand and the
Bohemians, his Ma*? is of opinion that the embroyling of Germany
in a warre would doe them but little good.

No. LXII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR DUDLEY CARLETON.
[State Papers. Holland.] [Brussels, ^1619.]
My Lord,
I have no doubt but this bearer, your nephew, will doe me right
in letting your Lordship understand that I am in no part of the cause
of his desire to returne to yow, having offered him my purse, my
table, and any thing els in my power to have wun him to a willingnes
to have honored me with his company this journey. But, seing an
aversation in him to the voyage, I suppose occasioned by his long
ing to wayte on your Lordship, I would not keepe him longer from
his contentment, nor your Lordship from the happines I cannot
enjoy, and have therefore taken the advantage of this occasion to
gayne another by this losse, through the honor of kissing your
Lordships handes as Your Lordship's most affectionate servant,
Doncaster.
Bruxelles, 30th May, 1619.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 99

No. LXIII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON,
[State Papers. Flanders.] [Brussels, May 30' 1619.]
June 9,
Right Honorable,
The day of the date of my last to you, being the next after my
arrivall at Bruxelles, I sent a gentleman to Mariemont to enquire of
his Highnes health, and to solicit the Comte d'Anover, that, through
his favor, I might be admitted to an audience, as soone as his
Highnes indisposition would permitt. From whome I receyved
answere that his Highnes was upon amendment, and that, by the
ordinary course of his fittes, he made confident reckoning that
within foure or five dayes at the farthest his Highnes would be in
a state to give me accesse.
Accordingly upon Tuesday the 25th of this moneth I was con
ducted to Binche (a little towne ab'oute a league from Mariemont)
by Monsr de Rossignol, and the day following from thence to Court
by the Duke d'Aumale, governor of that towne. Where after I
had first saluted the Infanta (which is a respect here payd her by all
Ambassadors) I was brought with honorable attendance to the
Archduke, whom I found removed into a gallery for the convenience
of my reception, though he rose not from his bedde till that very
day. But to acquainte his Ma*y with the whole truth, as my duty
requireth, I found him also sitting in a chayre and no meanes pro-
vyded for me to receyve that honor, which I concevyed due to his
Ma'iea Ambassador. 1 had no will, nor I thinke reason, to shew
any ressentment of this neglect in publike, and therefore resolved to
swallow it for a while, yet not to digest it, but in due season and in
a temperate maner to take notice, and demand reason thereof, as I
did afterwardes to the Duke d'Aumale, and others. They at first
were about to excuse it upon the example of the late extraordinary

100 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
French Ambassador, who was used in the same manner at all his
audiences, and then upon his Highnes infirmity, who, they sayd, if he
had beene able would have entertained me standing, as the Infanta
had done. But when I replyed that the French Ambassador's actions
were no presidents to me; that it was not reasonable his Ma** should
suffer for his Highnes' weaknes ; that his Matles Ambassador could
sitt if his Highnes could not stand ; then, finding I would not take
such counterfeit coyne for payment, much lesse for contentment,
they forsooke those fayned pretences, and gave me the true cause,
which was that the Comte de Noyelles was used in the same fashion
at his first audience in England, that at my next I should (as I did)
flnde other; wherewith I was fayne to rest satisfied, though not
altogether pleased. And this I have almost generally observed in
my whole entertaynment here that, as in all thinges wherein they
might sett forth the glory of their owne magnificence they have
beene desirous to exceede the patterne of their Ambassador's usage in
Englande, so in the rest they have beene curious to keepe them
selves within that measure wherein I thinke his Ma'? and all the
world will judge there is a great overvaluation on their part. And
to exemplifye this by one instance more: At my first coming to
Binche, a gentleman, his Highnes' servant, let me understand, as of
himselfe, that the Comte dAnover had a purpose to invite me to a
dinner at the Court at my second audience ; whom I besought to doe
me the favor to prevent his offering me that honor and my giving
a negative to a person I respected so much, the curtesy being such
as I could by noe meanes accept, finding a necessity in myself to
retire and dispose my thoughts at that time for the discharge of my
master's commandments. The next day, when I had promised to
sup. at night with the Duke d'Aumale at his castle (where I was very
nobly and freely feasted), the same gentleman came to me agayne,
and told me the Comte d'Anover was nothing well satisfied with all
he was able to say to him, because it did cleerely appeare by my
acceptation of the Duke d'Aumale his entertaynment, that my refusall
of the Comte d'Anover was grounded upon some other punctilio

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 101
then I had declared. Wherupon I brake freely with him and said,
that if the Comte would invite me to'his house at Bruxelles I should
embrace the honor with all thankefulnes ; but to 'be invited by him to
the Archduke's house, I held to be a disparagement to the quality I
sustayned. He answered that the Comte de Noyelles had beene
entertayned at the Court of England by his Ma*ies officers; and I
replyed, that, if it were so, it was by occasion of his Ma'ios sicknes,
seing meaner Ministers of his Highnes had been admitted to his
Ma'les table of my knowledge, and that I was certayne the invitation
was at least made in his Matie8 name. And so, when they found me
unapt to swallow such gudgeons, I was at last invited with all re
spect from his Highnes, with an excuse that his indisposition would
not suffer him to entertayne me at his owne table, though I must
professe the cheare was royall, and I am even now also risen from
a sumptious dinner of the Marquis of Spinola.
But to bring you backe to the place where I went out of my way.
At this first audience (having received assurance of another next
day,) I only presented my letters of credence, discharged the cere
mony of condoleance for the death of the Emperor his Highnes' late
brother, acknowledged thenkes in his Ma'le8 name for the like office
performed on his Highnes' part toward his Ma'? for the death of the
late Queene, and in myne owne for the honor had beene done me by
his commandement in reference to his Ma*y, forbearing to adde any
business of moment at this time, that the complement of condoleance
might weigh the better. His Highnes seemed indeede, as he sayd,
to take the friendly respect shewed toward him by his Ma'? in very
thankefull part, as esteeming it a great honor to him. That which
he had performed toward his Ma'^ it pleased him to call his duty.
And for the honor done to me, he sayd, that it was not so much as
he intended, but, seing I would accept of no more, he was well
pleased for my contentment it should be such as I desired. This
was all that dayes worke.
The next I had accesse to his Highnes in private, as he had
desired by the Duke d'Aumale, and to that end was contented to

102 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
allowe me to speake French, and himselfe for my understanding to
use the Latin, which they say his Highnes is not remembered to
have done to any Ambassador that did not first begin that language
to him. The summe of that I delivered this audience was to this
effect : That his Ma*r, though he were sufficiently perswaded that
nothing concerning the house of Austriche was resolved or under
taken without his Highnes' knowledge and advise (being now the
oracle of that family for his wisdome and experience) , yet because
his Highnesses name had not beene used in the request made by the
King of Spayne to his Ma'? to enterpose his endeavours for the
mediation of a peace betweene King Ferdinand and his subjects, his
Ma'^ had therefore out of his respect to his Highnes commanded me
to acquaint him with that his desiring, in sending me his unworthy
instrument on that ambassage into Germany, and doubted not but his
Highness in sending forces to that Kinges assistance did by a divers
way ayme at the same end, and had therefore further given me in
charge to be counselled and directed by his Highnes, by what
meanes their common intention is likelyest to be obtayned.
My drift in this proposition was to put his Highnes a little to
open himselfe, that accordingly I might governe my future dis
course. And in conformity to this counsell, when I found by his
Highnes' reply, which consisted of an acknowledgement both of his
Matles Christian disposition and singular favour to their family in
this his purpose, and of an extenuation of his owne ability to con
tribute any more to so great and good a worke then his wishes and
prayers ; — when, I say, hereby and more cleerely by the manner of his
Highnes expressing himselfe, I was assured his Highnes fully con
curred in the same desire with his Ma'?, I took that fayre passage
humbly to intreate his Highnes, as of my selfe, to assist me with his
effectual letters to King Ferdinand for a cessation of armes, remem-
bring that to be the poynt which is principally required of me in
my instructions, and hath beene since agayne refreshed by Mr
Secretary Calvert from his Ma'?, as a point the gayning wherof
would be much to his Ma'ies honor. To this end I briefly repre-

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 103
sented to his Highnes how sutable the advancement of this worke
was to his piety, inciting him further by his Ma*iea example, who
was desirous to re-establish King Ferdinand in his kingdome, though
he were of a divers religion, and that therefore it would sound well
abroad to the terror of the common enemy, that his Highnes with
the King of Spayne enterchangeably laboured to avoyd the shedding
of Protestant bloud; and lastly promising my indefatigable travayle
with the Bohemians Estates to bring them to hearken to such an
agreement as might be safe for them, and honorable for King Ferdi
nand. And so, having with much forwardnes obtayned his Highnes'
most willing promise of these letters to King Ferdinand (the copy
whereof I send inclosed), I ceased to trouble his Highnes further
with that negotiation.
And from thence I fell abruptly upon the Earle of Argyle. Con
cerning whom I must first let his Ma1? understand that at my niew
arrival to this place he sent a gentleman to me to know at what
time he might come to visit me without my trouble. By whom I
returned this rough answere, that it would be a trouble to me to see
him at any time, though it were by rencontre ; that for other meeting
I would give him none, and then shun him too, as he did his coun-
trey. For which roundnes, though I have sufficient warrant in the
commandement layd on Mr. Trumbull (wherein I hold my selfe
included), yet it may be I should have spared some part of the
harshnes, if I had not beene before freshly informed that his L. hath
so farre abused his Maties goodnes in sending a gentleman to him, as
that he hath forced an argument from thence to magnify himself
here to his ManeB prejudice, which gave me just occasion of jealousy
that he might make the same use of any conference he could obtayne
of me upon what other pretence or discourse soever. And for this
cause, to call downe the value he hath here raysed of himselfe (though
he be of late fallen into much contempt, and I am of opinion his
Ma'ie9 neglect would bring him into skorne,) the best forme I could
think of to cast my speech of him in was this : That such a Lord
there was of good quality, but such as his Maty had many subjects

104 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
his equalls and some his betters, who as his Ma'? was informed had
put himselfe into the service of his deare brother the King of Spayne,
and lived here under his Highnes' protection. Concerning whom,
though his Ma'y did not hold him worthy of his regard for any end
of his owne, yet out of his affection to that King and his Highnes
he found himselfe obliged, before they entertayned him into any
neerer confidence, to let them understand his conditions, whereof his
Ma'^ had good experience by divers employments, in all which he
had betrayed his Ma'ie9 trust and sometime theirs also against whom
he was employed. That for a consumation of his treachery he had
now lastly run out of his countrey. That his Ma*? had commanded
me to deliver his Highnes this true character of the man, leaving it
now to his wisdome and the King of Spayne to make what use of
him they thought good.
At this last clause of the Earles being a fugitive his Highnes made
semblance to be a little astonished, and professed that he |was in
formed from the Comte of Gondomar that his Lord had licence to
be out of his countrey, which I confessed to be true also with a
distinction of times; and this addition, that it was obtayned by
treachery (which was one ingredient in all his actions), wherupon
his Highness concluded that he would signify thus much to the
King of Spayne, his lord, and that they would of niew advise
what to doe, secundum rerum statum. Those were his wordes.
I continued that I was unwilling to trouble the Infanta with
any such like discourse, but that his Highness might please to let
her also know that the Countesse of Argyle was no lesse unworthy
to be honored with any countenance from her Highnes, being a
woman that had so notoriously dishonored herselfe ; that their
Highnes would not repute me a defamer of ladies' reputations for
publishing it, if they would descend to enquire of her good name;
and yet I must confesse to his Ma'^ that I had some care of my
selfe in presuming to swarve from his Highnes' commandement to
say this to the Infanta, because the roome wherein she gave me
audience was very little and filled with ladies, who would have

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 105
censured me for a strange beast if they had by chance overheard
me entertayne her Highness with this argument. And so, after I
had craved his Highnes pardon for my importunity in pressing at first
unseasonably for an audience, and his permission to kisse his handes
without longer stay, in respect that I did both the one and the
other for the advancement of his Highnes and the King of Spaynes
service, I humbly tooke leave of his Highnes, of whom I may
truly, and therefore must, give this testimony, that, besides the
piety and goodnes of his nature, which appeare in his discourse,
and more quicknes of apprehension and expression then his yeares
and infirmities doe well beare, he spake of his Ma'? with all signifi
cation of respect and love, and evermore constantly in the termes
of service ; and since his Highnes hath now no minister in England
to whom his Ma'? can take notice of the honor done to me for his
sake, I could be glad his Ma'? would be pleased to doe it either by
immediate letter, or by commandement to Mr. Trumbull, as his Ma**
in his princely wisdome shall thinke most fitt.
Thus I have wearied you with an unmercifull dispatche, and not
withstanding I cannot yet shutt it up, for I am bound to give his
Ma*y an accompt of my opinion of the discoverer mentioned in Mr.
Trumbull's letter, and of his project, which I will deliver as quickly
as I conceyved it ; for, putting the fellow briefly to the extremity,
by offering him men of courage to execute the desseigne and his
demand of 2000 pistoles in his hand upon the performance, I had
great cause to apprehend a vehement suspition that he takes upon
him to know much more then he dares undertake to verifye ; yet
I thinke I shall speake with him once agayne late this evening, and
if I finde reason to change my judgement I shall be very glad to
retract my error; howsoever I purpose to leave him to treate more
at leysure with Mr. Trumbull, for whose direction in this and the
other poyntes I have delivered him a copy of Mr. Secretary Calvert's
letter.a 1 The man was a certain Nicholas de Laken, who had offered to discover the name of
the author of the Corona Regia, a libel at which James had been greatly offended. On
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106 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
For newes I must yet add that it is some weekes since the Arch
duke hath beene advertised of Don Roderigo Chalderon his close
imprisonment in such a strict manner, and with so much care, that
he may not have power to make himselfe away, as that no one
man is suffered to have the charge of his custodie above two houres,
and is then, though Chalderon be sleeping, to awake and deliver
him alive to the next commanded to take him into his keeping.
When Chalderon first found they took this severe course with him,
he smiled and sayd he had a protector would beare him out in all
that he had done ; but the Archduke hath freshly receyved letters
bearing this preamble, that if the former seemed to containe any
strange niews, his Highnes would very shortly heare of much
stranger, for that it was certainly thought to be fully discovered
that the Duke of Lerma had of himselfe contrived, and by Chalderon
practised, the late Queene of Spaynes death; that for his examining,
and the proceeding against him without offence to the Church,
there is a Cardinall sent for from Rome to interrogate him, but
that it is further imagined that for saving of the Cardinall's honor,
and reasons of state, the Duke is likely, either in the meane time
or soone after, to be delivered out of prison into heaven with a
cup of nectar.
The Comte de Solse is here designed Ambassador from these
Princes to the King of Polonia, upon pretence of christening a
child of his yet unborne, which appearing an improbable colour to
me, gave me occasion to enquire more diligently after the true end
of his employment thither, and I have learned from very good part
that it is to deale with that King to turne those forces he is calling
home out of Russia upon his neighbours the Silesians, whereunto
if he can be drawne it will give a greater terror and blow to the
Bohemians then any they have yet felt or feared.
King Ferdinand his Ambassador, who hath beene long in the
1,18 6th f J 1 ' Trumbu11 wrote to Naunton expressing his disbelief that De Laken
had any information worth buying.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 107
towne, hath not once come to visit me all this time of my being
here, which I finde very strange. His Master is here valued to be
but a silly Jesuited soule, and the Archduke hath absolutely
refused to transfer his estate in Austria upon him, but hath made
him governor for his Highnes.
I send his Ma'? here inclosed the Archduke's answere to his
letters, as also a letter from the Duke of Bouillon to me, contayning
his thoughtes upon the state of the affayres in Bohemia ; I shall be
very glad to understand his Ma*ies censure of them before my depar
ture from Heidelburg, being to sett forward thither early to-morrow
morning, if it please God, to whose blessed protection I coLimend
his Sacred Ma*? in my dayly prayers, and rest
Your most affectionate faythfull friende
and humble servant,
Doncaster.
Bruxelles, 30th May, stilo vetere, 1619.
[Postscript.] — Before this dispatche could be closed, I was here
presented with a Jewell from their Highnesses, which I send into
England by this worthy gentleman, Captaine Killigrew, and, if
you think fitt, it may please you, Sir, to shew it unto his Ma*? for
a verification of a passage in my dispatch.

No. LXIV.
SIR ISAAC WAKE TO THE MARQUIS OF BUCKINGHAM.
[State Papers. Savoy.] [flurin, June -ft, 1619.]
From Heidelberg I did make bolde to give your Lordship a par
ticular account" of what I treated with the Elector Palatine, at my
being in his Court, and if your leisure will permit you to peruse the
» This dispatch has not been preserved.

108 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
inclosed copye of my despatch to Mr. Secretary Naunton, you may
be pleased therein to see what occurrences I did meete withal by
the way.
The Prince of Anhalt, who came into Piedmont with a purpose
not to be knowen unto any but the Duke of Savoy in private, was
discovered by an unfortunate accident of sicknes which did inforce
him to admit physitians and apothecaryes to come unto him, from
whom he could not long conceale his quality; when he was once
knowen he did boldly pull of. his maske, and as soone as he had
recovered his health, he did shewe himselfe in publique; but his
negotiation, which is guessed at in general by all men, though the
particulers thereof are knowen to fewe, did consist of seven points:
1 . First he did desire this Duke to continue unto the Count of
Mansfelt the paye of that regiment which he hath in Bohemia, in
consideration of the great service those troupes have donne unto the
publique, and the benefit that may be hoped to redound unto the
Duke of Savoy hereafter in his owne particuler.
2. His second motion was to borrowe of the Duke of Savoy and
of the Venetians the summe of a million and a half of crowns to
wards the assistance of the Bohemians, for the repayment whereof he
did offer sufficient caution.
3. He did desire that the Duke of Savoy would employ his credit
in France to procure that, by the mediation of the French King, the
Imperiall Dyett might be putt of, untill such time as the affaires of
the Bohemians might be accommodated.
4. That by the Duke of Savoyes powerful mediation in France
they might be brought to followe the maximes and designes which
the late King had framed and projected for the liberty of Germany.
5. That he would procure the French King to contribute the best
of his power and strength to hinder the Empire from continuing to
be hereditary.
6. That for the more easy compassing of this point the French
King would trye if it were possible to get the Bishop of Triers to
give his voice to the Duke of Savoy.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 109
7. That the French King, at the Duke of Savoyes request, would
assist the Bohemians and the Princes of Germany, either with men
or money as best he might.
The Duke of Savoy did force himselfe to give the Prince of An
halt satisfaction, as far as his power did extend, and immediately he
did dispatch a currier to the Prince of Piedmont, with expresse
order that he should employ the uttermost of his credit in the French
Court to procure the effecting of so many of these articles as did
depend uppon the pleasure of that King. The loane of monny could
not be obtained, considering the hardnes of the Venetians, and the
barenes of the Duke of Savoy : but the Count of Mansfelt's regiment
is continued still by this Duke, until he shall see what plye those
affaires are likely to take.
At my first audience with the Duke of Savoy, after having pre- •
sented unto him his Ma'ies lettres, I did let him knowe the commis
sion I had receaved from his Ma'ie to passe such offices for him with
the Princes of Germany as the present conjuncture of affaires in
those parts did permit, wherein howe faithfully I had acquitted my
selfe of my duty I did desire him to see in a letter which I then
presented unto him from the Elector Palatine, a copye whereof your
Lordship shall receave here inclosed. I did further tell him that the
extraordinary affection his Matie did beare unto the person of his High
ness and to all of his howse had made him give a more willing eare
unto these overtures then he had been used to do to any newe pro.
jects. But, because these innovations did in his Matiea judgement
seeme to threaten a great deale of danger, he had given mee in
charge earnestly in his name to desire his Highnes to weigh in a just
and equal ballance his owne strength and the power of all his frends,"
and seriously to consider whither all of them togither had power
sufficient to wrest two such crowns out of the hands of the Princes
a In February the Duke had proposed that he should become Emperor and King of
Bohemia, whilst the Elector Palatine was to have Alsace, Hungary, and, if possible, part
of Austria. Londorp, iii. 611.

110 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
of Austria, who are and will infallibly be supported with all the
forces of Spayne. Above all I did most earnestly desire him to make
sure worke in France, and not to thinck that any good could be
donne in this busines, unlesse he could winne the French King to
favor the designe, assuring him that when it should appeare unto
his Ma'io that there was not onely possibility, but some probability
also in the designe, he would not be wanting to declare himselfe in
favor of his Highnes when he might do it to some purpose.
The Duke of Savoy in his answer did spend many words in ac
knowledging the great obligations he had to his Ma'le, and offering
by way of gratitude himselfe and all his children as ready to spend
their lives for his Ma*ie when any occasion of doing him service
should require it. But in the maine business I did not find him so
warme as he had beene figured unto mee in Germany : and I do
imagine that either the Prince of Anhalt hath cooled his desire, or
that he doth suspect the Princes of Germany do onely serve them-
selfes of him to beat the bush, and that they entend to keepe the
birds for themselfes if any may be gotten. All that he can promise
for France is onely a neutrality, not without some doubt whither that
may be assured or not. The Venetians will not be drawen to part
with any more money; and, although they desire more then any
other the weakening of the howse of Austria, yet would they have
it by an other way, desiring that the Bohemians might affranchise
themselfes, and establish their liberty in the forme of a Republique,
without choosing a newe king. He doth find that the Duke of
Saxony is resolved to concurre with the Ecclesiastical - Electors in
favor of Ferdinand, and that it will be impossible to gaine his voice,
considering that his greatnes was raysed by the howse of Austria,
and the conservation of his estate doth depend uppon their protec
tion. Notwithstanding all these difficultyes he tolde mee that if his
Ma'io, togither with the States of the United Provinces and the
Princes of the Union, would undertake the protection of the Bohe
mians, he would contribute likewise to their assistance, as much as
his ability would permit, without having regard unto any profit or

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. Ill
advantage that might redound either unto him or his howse ; add
ing withal (to use his owne phrase) that this busines was unjeu de
peu de tavoliers ; and that there was no time for long deliberation ;
but that the Princes of Germany, and all that wish well unto the
publique liberty, must be enforced to pull of their maskes and resolve
either to weaken the Austrians, in such sort that they may not here
after have the power to do hurt, or suffer them to growe more strong
and potent then they have been in those parts since the time of
Charles the fift.
I have safely delivered your Lordship's letter unto the Duke of
Savoy, which he did take very kindly, with protestation that it was
the most welcome letter he had receaved a long time, willing mee to
assure your Lordship on his behalfe, that, as he did worthily esteeme
those excellent virtues and abilities of your Lordship which had made
you gratious to his Ma'io and eminent unto the worlde, so he would
studiously seeke out some occasion which might make him merit
your Lordship's love, the happines whereof he doth earnestly desire
your Lordship to continue unto him, and that you will be pleased
to let him see the effects thereof, by your confirming him in the
honor of his Matios good opinion.
For my owne particuler, I do humbly beseech your Lordship that
you will vouchsafe to cast an eye sometimes uppon one that is your
onely creature, and that you will be pleased to perfect the worke of
your owne hands, when in your wisdom you shall think it fit. Sir
Henry Wotton is departed from Venice, without any purpose, as I
understand, to returne thither any more. If he continue in the
same minde, I do in all humility desire your Lordship to remember
the gratious promise you were pleased to make mee, of procuring
mee that employment, when it should be voide.
So, with my harty prayers unto Almighty God for your Lord
ship's increase in all happines and prosperity, I take leave, and rest
Your Lordship's most faithfully to honor and serve you,
Isaac Wake.
From Turin the T5T of June, 1619.

112 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS

No. LXV.
ANSWER GIVEN BY THE ELECTOR PALATINE, THE MARGRAVE OF
ANSPACH, THE DUKE OF WIRTEMBERG, THE MARGRAVE OF
BADEN, AND THE PRINCE OF ANHALT, TO SIR HENRY WOTTON.
[Londorp. Acta Publica, iii. 657.] [Heilbronn, June y, 1619.]
Messeigneurs les Electeur- Palatin, Marquis d'Anspach, Due
de Wirtemberg, Marquis de Baden, et Prince d' Anhalt, assemblez
en cette ville de Heilbron, ont entendu par la proposition que leur
a faite le Sieur Chevalier Wotton, Ambassadeur du Roy de la
Grand Bretagne vers la Republique de Venise, les ouvertures par
les quelles il a pleu a, S. Majeste leur rendre derechef un noveau
tesmoignage tant de son zele et tres louable intention au bien et
repos publique que de sa royale bienveillance en leur particulier,
dont ils se sentent grandement obligez a luy en rendre biens hum
bles services, ainsi qu'ils seront prests de sy porter tous entiers es
occasions qui s'en presehteront, et en l'attente desquelles elles remer-
cient bien humblement sa Majestd du soing qu'il luy a pleu prendre
en cest endroict ; la supplicans de continuer en un si sainct et si
louable propos.
Quant au premier poinct, concernant les moyens proposez par les
quel sa Majeste estime se pouvoir faire bresche et diminution a la
Papaut£, pour l'avancement et propogation de la Religion Evange-
lique, e'est a. scavoir les armes, et les livres, la predication, et une
intime communication, leurs Altesses seron bien ayses de se con-
former et accommoder cy apres aux bons et prudens advis de sa
Majeste lors qu'il luy plaira leur faire l'honneur de les leur departer
particulierement sur ce suject, pour y cooperer avec elle par toutes
voyes possibles.
Le second poinct, touchant les moyens de faciliter une alliance
entre la Republique de Venise et celle des Grisons, sera aussy mis

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 113
en digne consideration pour y apporter tous devoirs possibles, ainsi
que desja passe' plusieurs annees ou s'est travaille' d'acheminer et
mettre en bon train ladite alliance, laquelle jusqu' icy c'est trouvee'
empesehee' et acrochee' par les factions de ceux qui n'y portent
point d'affection : et encores que les Cantons de Zurich et de Berne
y ayent de leur coste" contribuee tout leur mieux, si est ce que leurs
dites Altesses n'ont laisse' pourtant de les y exhorter de nouveau par
lettres expresses, et ne perdront aucune occasion capable d'y pou-
voir servir. Esperans que sa Majeste continuera de mesmes a, y
employer son credit et authorite, puisqu' a, cause du passage par
lesdits Grisons c'est une chose qu'importe fort a. tous de les Evan
geliques de la Germanie.
Finalement leurdictes Altesses ont receu beaucoup de contente-
ment d'apprendre par ce que ledit Sieur Ambassadeur leur a pre
sent^, de la part de la dicte Republique de Venise, les bonnes
ententions qu'elle a d'entretenir une bonne intelligence avec tout
le corps des Unis, et de ne permettre au desavantage d'iceux aucun
passage par le Golf.
Ce que oblige particulierement leurs dictes Altesses a. les en
remercier par le moyen du diet Sieur Ambassadeur, et a, le requerer,
cc-mme ils font par cestes, de vouloir asseurer la dicte Republique
de la bonne volonte qu'ils ont d'y correspondre de leur cost£, par
toutes sortes de bons offices, lorsque les occasions leur en fourniront
les moyens, leurs dictes Altesses se promettans que la dicte Repub
lique, en conformite de ces siennes offres [et] declaration, ne
donnera et ne souffrira estre donne passage es lieux de leur obeys
sance, et sur tout par la Mer Adriatique, au prejudice du repos de
la Germanie, et specialment desdicts Unis, lesquels seront tousjours
soigneux de s'en revencher ; et quis que sa Majeste' de la Grande
Bretagne peut beaucoup pour les confirmer en un si bon propos,
leurs Altesses adjoutent encores ceste bien humble priere aux prece
dentes, qu'il plaise a, sad. Majeste' d'y tenir la bonne main; ce qui
accroistra des obligations envers icelle. Et le diet Sieur Ambassa-
CAMD. SOC. Q

114 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
deur se pourra tousjours tenir tres asseure de la bienvueiUance de
leursdictes Altesses envers luy.
Donne\Hailbronn, c. 12 de Juin, 1619.
Frideric, E. P. Joachim Ernst, Marquis
de Branburg.
G. F. M. de Baden. Le Due de Wirtenberg.
Christian Prince d' Anhalt.

No. LXVI.
PHILIP III. TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Spain.] [Belem, June |f, 1619.]
PhilippuS, Dei gratia Hispaniarum utriusque Sicilia?, Hieroso-
lumarum, Indiarum, &c. Rex, Archidux Austria?, Dux Burgundia?,
Mediolani, &c. Comes Abspurgi, Tivolis, &c. serenissimo et poten-
tissimo Principi ac Domino Jacobo Magna? Brittania?, &c. Regi,
fratri et consanguineo nostro charissimo, salutem et utramque felici-
tatem. Serenissime princeps, frater et consanguinee charissime, Julia-
nus Sanctus Ulloa mei legati secretarius fecit me certiorem de electione
et discessu legati extraordinarii Vestra? serenitatis, cui in mandatis
dederat ut suo nomine inviseret Principem Electorem Palatinum et
alios in Germania, suamque Regiam intercessionem interponeret
in negotio ele'etionis pro domo Austriaca et nominatim pro serenis
simo Rege Ferdinando, simulque ageret de compositione motuum
Bohemicorum ; qua? officia, etsi de vestra regia bonitate et in
bonum publicum recta intentione procedunt, mihi sunt gratissima ;
vicemque tamquam bonus frater et amicus in omni occasione repen-
dam, ut lathis ab. ipso Juliano poterit Serenitas Vester percipere.
Quam Deus Optimus Maximus omni felicitate cumulare dignetur.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 115
Datum in Monasterio Regio nostro Bethlem, die 25 mensis Junii,
anno Domini 1619. Serenitatis vestra? frater amantissimus,
Philippus. Joannes de Cirica.

No. LXVII.
THE PRINCES OF THE UNION TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Heilbronn, June $, 1619.]
Sire,
Nous ne doubtons point que Vostre M'e ne soit assez suffisam-
ment informee du dangereux estat auquel se trouvent pour ce
jourd'huy les affaires de l'Empire, et qu'elle ne compatisse de bon
creur avec nous, et ce d'autant plus qu'il y a apparence qu'en cest
estat si perilleux les choses sont reduictes a tels termes que le fait
de la Religion et de tous les membres d'icelle se recontre en un
aussy grand et evident danger qu'il ayt jamais este depuis qu'il a
pleu a Dieu esclairer le Germanie de la lumiere de son Evangile ; et,
ne voyant point d'autre expedient d'en pouvoir sortir qu' apres
avoir implore' l'ayde du Tout Puissant se resoudre promptement
et prendre de bonne heure les moyens et remedes en main, pour
divertir le malheur qui les menace et qui est proche de leur portes.
Estant aussy notoire par tout l'Empire et ailleurs que pendant cest
interregne et contre les constitutions de l'Empire on a conduict et
fait marcher grand nombre de gens de guerre, estrangers, et Espag-
nols, voire des armees toutes formees tant dedans que hors l'Empire,
contre les Estats de la Religion en Boheme, et qu'on est encor apres
pour en lever d'avantage sur les terres des Archiducs, pareillement
aussy qu'il se trouve sus pied un grand amas de gens de guerre en
Italie, pour le passage des quels on presse fort en divers lieux, a, fin
de leur faire tourner teste vers l'Allemagne: k cecy fault adjouster

116 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
que la pluspart des Electeurs et Princes Ecclesiastiques se fortifient
merveilleusement de gens de guerre tant de pied que de cheval, et
ne cessent encor de continuer leurs levees. Dailleurs Vostre Ma
jeste ne peult ignorer la grande meffiance et mesintelligence qui s'est
glissee entre les Estats des deux religions en l'Empire de puis la
derniere Diete Imperialle tenue en l'an 1613, en laquelle ceux de
la Religion demanderent assez serieusement qu'on voulust remedier
a leurs griefs ; et en vindrent jusques la que le feu Empereur de
tresheureuse memoire leur accorda l'interposition de son authority
pour parvenir a quelque amiable composition, la quelle neant moins
du de puis a tousjours este traversee et retardee par les violentes
et frequentes oppositions de I'autre party. Et mesmes on en est
venu si avant que les Estats Catholiques Romains se sont declarez
a. bouche ouverte de ne pouvoir ny ne vouloir en facon quelconque
entrer en aucun traicte avec les Estats de la Religion en ce qui
touche leurs griefs. De la il est ayse' a. croire que leur ferme et
finale resolucion ne tend qu'a vouloir espier l'occasion qu'ils verront
a propos contre les Estats de la Religion pour par-force attirer a
eux les cloistres, abbayes et autres biens Ecclesiastiques qu'ils pre-
tendent leur avoir este retrenchez. Et pour preuve infaillible que
leur dessein est tel, on le veoit apparemment par les discours et
libelles fameux publiez depuis quelque temps en 9a par de leurs
principaux conseillers et officiers, joinct a ce que leurs grandes et
subites levees et autres preparatifs de guerre non necessaires ne don.
nent pas peu d'ombrage et de soubcon, que cas advenant (ce qu'on
n'espere pas toutes fois) que les Estats de la Religion en Boheme
viassent a, estre opprimez et a avoir du pis, qu'indubitablement ils
se voudront prevaloir d'un tel avantage a, l'effect que dessus.
Considerans donques et voyants le danger tel qu'il est, nous nous
sommes assemblez derechef en ceste ville de Heylbron pour y deliberer
et resoudre ensemblement comment et en quelle facon ce mal pourra
estre prevenu ; et apres une bonne et meure deliberacion, nous
avons trouve" que la gloire de Dieu, la conservacion de nostre reli
gion et de la liberte que nos predecesseurs nous ont acquise au prix

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 117
de leur sang et perte de leurs biens, ne pouvoit estre autrement
maintenue, en un estat si evidemment dangereux, que par une
bonne resolucion de nous mettre en estat convenable et necessaire
pour nostre commune conservacion. Comme de faict et a ceste
occasion nous avons resolu voire sommes apres " de mettre sus pied
dix a. douze mille hommes de pied et trois mille bons chevaux avec
les despendances pour avec I'assistance Divine nous opposer et
repousser, en tant qu'en nous est, toutes forces et violences illegi-
times. Mais d'autant qu'il nous seroit bien difficile a, nous seuls de
supporter a, la longue un si grand faix et d'empescher un torrent
qui pourroit tomber tout a coup sur nous, et que pour la defense
de nos pays et sujects qui avoysinent la riviere du Rhin, celle du
Danube, et le Royaume de Boheme, ou il y a le plus d'apparence
de danger, il nous conviendra tenir sur nos gardes de tous cez costez
la, et par ainsy serions contraincts de diviser nos forces en divers
endroicts. C'est pourquoy nous avons creu estre le nostre debuoir
d'en donner prompt advis a, Vostre Majesty, et par mesme moyen la
supplier bien humblement qu'en consideracion du danger que nous
luy venons de representer et qui se fait desja veoir devant nos yeux,
il luy plaise, en vertu et conformement a l'alliance qu'elle a recipro-
quement contractee avec nous, donner tel ordre que le secours
promis en icelle soit prest et en tel estat, qu'a la premiere somma-
tion que nous en ferons, qui pourroit bien tost arriver, il puisse
estre envoye par deca aux lieux que nous specifierons ; offrans
d'observer sincerement de nostre coste et en cas de besoing tout ce
a quoy ladite alliance nous tient obligez. Vostre Majestd fera en
cela chose digne de sa grandeur, et qui redondera au bien et a la
conservacion de la religion et de la liberte commune. Surquoy
attendans au plus tost sa response benigne et favorable, nous l'asseur-
erons icy derechef de nostre entiere devotion au bien de son service,
et que nous demeurerons tousjours, Sire, de Vostre Majeste.
De Heylbron le 17 de Juin, 1619.
a Some words appear to have been omitted.

118 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. LXVIII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO JAMES I.
[Holograph. State Papers. Germany.] [Heidelberg, June ||, 1619.
MAY IT PLEASE YOUR MOST EXCELLENT Ma"0.
According to the Comandement I receyved from your Matie I
have endevored to sound this Prince your sone, and, if my short
understanding were a fit measure to judge any depthes by, I should
dare pronounce that his Highnes is muche beyond his yeirs, religious,
wise, active, and valiant, of all whiche noble and princely partes I
doubte not but he will very shortly give your Matie and all the world
good proofe by his braue carrage in the charge, wiche the Princes of
the Union yield to him as his ryght, of being generall of the forces
they are levying and resolvinge to send into the Upper Palatinat,
under colour of defence thereof, but indeed to be employed accord
ing as occasion shall offer. And if your Ma*? could heare with my
eares, how infinitely his Highnes is respected by all those princes,
how highly he is estemed and redowbted in all Germany, and how
extremly he is loved and honored by all his owne people, your
Maty would believe the testimony of Fame if you discredit myne.
Concerninge hir Highnes, if I can say no more then that she is
that same devoute, good, sweet princess your Matiea daughter should
be, and she was ever, obliging all hearts that come neere her by her
courtesy, and so dearly loving and beloved of the Prince her hous-
band, that it is a joy to all that behold them.
When I delivered your Maties pleasure to her Highnes concerninge
the reintertaynement of Mr. Elfinston, I found her Highnes ex-
treamly troubled- therewith, and spared not to expresse so much
dislyke as I was suspicious it was infused by his enimies, till, urginge
to be acquainted with the reasons of her Highnes' distast, for your
Ma'ies satisfaction, it pleased her Highnes to let me know that he
had caried himselfe in her service and departed from it in suche a

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 119
fashion as her Highnes would think it the greatest affliction could
befall her to be inforced to tak him agayne. And she farther
discovered to me divers particulars which are unfit to be committed
to paper, but suche as when your Ma*' shall heare yow will say her
Highnes hath reason for her passion. The Prince lykeways, whose
affection to him her Highnes willed me to search, discovered no lesse,
with sum more bitternes then her Highnes had wrapped up in sweet
termes. This I protest upon my faythe to God and your Ma'^ to be
most true, which I would think a most needless asseveration if at
the recept of this command I had not beene an humble suitor to ¦
your Ma*y for my servant Nethersole, and obtayned your gracious
promes for him in the second place." Whereof I most humbly
intreat your Ma^ to give me leave now to remember yow, and of the
surety I then gave you, who is still willing to stand engaged for him,
and if it will please your M. to settle him in this employment now
while I am in these partes, as I doe most humbly intreat, I will
undertak to leave him in so good intelligence with these princes as
shall not be unusfull for your Matios servise. And so, praying God to
blesse the Christian World, your Kingdomes, and me, with your
Ma"03 long and healthfull lyf, In all humble reverence I tak leave,
and rest Your sacred Matio9 most obedient humble subject
and faithfull servant,
Doncaster.
Heidelberg, 18th June 1619.
As I am closing up these letters I receyved the letters" from the
Princes of the Union, promised me by the Prince your sone, and,
since your Ma'io was pleased at my taking leave to honor me with
the office of Chancellor of your honor and conscience, give me leave
to mak a reference unto your Matie as first Master of the Chancery,
whether yow be not bound in bothe to grant there request.
a To be Secretary to the Electress in the place lately vacated by Sir Albert Morton.
b No. LXVII.

120 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. LXIX.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO THE MARQUIS OF BUCKINGHAM.
[Holograph. State Papers. Germany.] [Heidelberg, June $f, 1619.]
My noblest Lord,
Presuming on your Lordship's zele to his Majesties honor and love
to me, I will not be affrayed humbly to intreat your Lordship, when
yow shall take knoledge from my letters to his Ma'10 of this brave
Prince his makinge him selfe generall of the forces of the Union, to
considder with your owne wysdome whether it may not be an happy
oportunity for your Lordship to incit his Mtie to send him a secours
of men or money, wiche he may doe upon that occasion, without the
exception, if I may not say with the exspectation of all the world,
and then I leave the resolution of what is fit for your Lordship, to
your noble heart. Onley give me leave to adde this dilemma, that,
since the parties are now lyk to come to bloues, if without his Mto
appearinge either directly or indirectly in the Bohemians favor, they
get the upper hand, there can no part of the honor redound to his
Ma*ie, and if they should be defeat (wiche God forbid) now that the
Princes of the Union and his sone are forced by there actions to
declare themselves, thoughe under other pretences, his Mtie will
necessarily be engaged to releave them under the burden at the end
of the day; and, to tell your Lordship the plaine trewth, the reason
of his Ma'ies tenderness in respect of the mediation he interposeth is
not satisfactory heere, seinge the King of Spayne, who hath the
same reason, doth not spare notwithstandinge^ to assist King Ferdi
nand. But if his M"° will not harken to such language, at least,
my noble Lord, be pleased to think whether the sendinge of some
gentleman to this Prince, (and for my owne sake I wisse it wer the
rog Goring,) with sum gracious and promisinge message for the
tyme to come, or but with comission for me to doe as muche and to

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 121
speak loud and a chevall to King Ferdinand in the meane tyme if
he give jcause, may not be a poore meanes to uphold his Mties
honor and frendeship for a tyme, wiche I cannot forbeare to whisper
in your Lordship's eare suffers too muche already.
Be pleased, noblest Lord, to bestow a thought on these proposi
tions, wiche I trust yow are assured proceed from a heart faithfull
to his Mati0, and resolved to be eternally
Your Lordship's most faithful humble servant,
Doncaster.
Heydelberg, 18th June, 1619.
Now that it is certain Elfinston can not be welcome hither, give
me leave to put your Lordship in mynd of your favorable promes for
Nethersole, in the second place ; for whose beinge heir if your Lord
ship myght please to send me ordre whyll I am amonge these
Princes, I shall hold it for a syngular favour, an d will be bound his
sufficiensy and honesty shall deserve this high favour of your
Lordship. — [Postscript in Lord Doncaster's handwriting.]

No. LXX.
MEMOIR GIVEN BY FREDERICK V., ELECTOR PALATINE,
TO VISCOUNT DONCASTER.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Heilbronn, June Jjj, 1619.]
MEMOIRE, pour servir d'information a Monsieur le Viconte de
Doncastre, Ambassadeur de sa Ma'° de la Grandee Bretagne, sur les
poincts touchant lesquels il a demand^ esclaircissement.
1. Premierement,que le but et intention de Messeigneurs les Princes
et Estats Unis est de restablir et entretenir la tranquillite publicque,
et se conserver au milieu des troubles et dangers que les menacent.
Pour l'effect de quoy ils ont prise resolution de leuer jusques a dix
CAMD. SOC. R

122 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
ou douze mille hommes de pied, et trois mille bons chevaux, pour
s'en servir en un besoing, avec les autres moyens que Dieu leur a
donne et donnera en main.
2. Secondement, que par les apologies, et par les comportements des
estats de Boheme, il appert manifestement, que leur intention ne
fust oncques de se rebeller contre l'Empereur defunct leur Roy.
Et que pour mieux comprendre cecy il faut entendre que les con?
stitutions du Royaume de Boheme sont reciprocquement obliga-
toires entre les Roys et lesdits Estats. D'avantage le[s] concessions
specialees, donnees jurees et confirmees ausdits Estats par les Rois
precedents, et mesme par sa Ma*° dernierement decedee, monstrent
non seulement quels sont leurs privileges, et sur tout l'octroy qui
leur est fait du libre excercise de leur Religion, mais aussi le pou-
voir qui leur est expressement donn4 et permis de se maintenir
contre tous ceux qui voudroient entreprendre de les y traverser ou
troubler. Au contraire, pour les frustrer de tout desdits privileges, libre
exercice de la religion Evangelicque et des concessions par eux
obtenues, on a allegue que les Rois susdits n'ont point eu la puis
sance de les donner sans la permission du Pape, et que, le Pape n'y
voulant consentir, telles concessions ne sont obligatoires. De la
sont ensuivres plusieures traverses et persecutions. Lesquelles se
sont tellement accreues de plus en plus par la malvueillance et ani
mosity des Principaux officiers de la Courone et autres creatures des
Jesuites autheurs et instigateurs, qu'en fin on en est venu si avant
que de defendre en divers lieux dudit royaume le libre exercice de
la Religion Evangelicque, chastier par emprisonnement les contre-
venants, et raser les nouveaux temples que les Evangelicques
avoient bastis a, grands fraiz en vertu desdites concessions, et de
leur fermer ceux a, la construction desquels sa Ma'° de la Grande
Bretagne mesme avoit fort liberalement contribute de ses deniers.
Toutes lesquelles rigeurenses procedures se faisoient et couvroient
du nom et authority de sa Mate Imperiale defuncte, laquelle par
surprise et faux rapports se laissoit aller et persuader de signer des

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 123
commandements et jussions derogeantes ausdites concessions, dont
lesdits officiers et leurs adherants se prevaloient audacieusement a,
I'oppression et ruyne totale desdits Evangelicques. Lesquels d'autre
costd, ne desirants rien plus que de jouyr paisiblement de leur
privileges, liberty et exercise de leur religion, se servirent premiere-
ment des moyens ordinaires, de remonstrances et treshumbles suppli
cations faites par eux de bouche et par escrits innombrables. Mais
voyants que tout accez leur estoit retrench^ envers sadite Mat0
Imp10, que leursdites supplications ne passoient que par les mains
de ceux que fabriquoient eux mesmes tels commandements pour en
leur pernicieux dessein abuser de l'authorite' Imperiale, et qu'il ne
restoit plus aucune esperance de se conserver par ceste voye, ils
furent contraincts de recourir a celle que lesdites concessions de
leurs Rois leur monstrent, et de reprimer eux mesmes l'audace et
insolence de leurs persecuteurs, avec protestation de n'entendre en
facon quelconque se departir ne soustraire de l'obeyssance et respect
deu a sadite Ma'e, a laquelle ils n'attribuent, ains a son mauvais
conseil et malueillants, la cause desdites persecutions, nonobstant
qu'il soit raisonable d'observer et faire observer inviolablement ce
que sadite Mato et ses predecesseurs leur avoient promis si solennel-
leinent par lettres, seaux, et par serment. Aussi leurs actions pen
dant ces troubles rendent tesmoignage qu'ils n'ont aucunement vise'
a se rebeller : car, nonobstant qu'on les ayt des le commencement
assailis par toutes sortes d'hostilite' par le fer et par le feu, sans
espargner hommes, femmes, ne mesmes les petits enfants allaitants
et attachez aux mammelles de leurs mere, si est ce qu'ils se
sont tousjours contenus es bornes de leur defensive, le seul respect
qu'ils portoient a sadite Ma*° (puis que tels actes se faisoient soubs
le nom d'icelle) les ayant retenues de se servir *de plusieurs avan-
tages qu'ils avoient alors, et de tailler en pieces, ou pour le moins
de chasser hors du royaume, les trouppes qui s'estoient hostilement
jectees dedans, jusques a, ce qu'au lieu d'un accommodement amiable
qu'ils esperoient on a porte les choses aux extremitez come elles
sont aujourd' huy. Par ou on veoit que lesdits Estats ne combattent

124 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
que pour garentir leurs vies, femmes, enfants, religion et privileges,
a l'encontre de l'indicible cruaute' et violence qu'on exerce main-
tenant et sans cesse contre eux, telle qu' entre les Barbares n'en
fust onque ouye' de semblable, et qui tourne a honte immortelle
a, toute la Chrestientd, et au grand avantage de l'enemy commun
d'icelle. Sur tout il plaira audit Seigneur Ambassadeur empescher de
tout son pouvoir le restablessement des Jesuites audit royaume,
puis qu'ils sont les allumettes de ces feux. et qu'il est impossible de
procurer une paix asseuree, s'ils n'en demeurent totalement exclus.
Pour fin de ce second poinct, au cas qu'on voulust objecter aux S1
Ambassadeur que le Roy Ferdinand s'est offert de confirmer aux
Bohemiens leurs privileges et concessions moyenant leur submission,
et qu'ils n'y ont voulu entendre, il se pourra faire representer par
lesdits Bohemiens mesmes ce qui s'est passe, et la raison de l'un ou
de I'autre, par ou il entendra que ceste offre ne s'est pas faite en
deiie forme, et qu'en un affaire de si grande importance il est ques
tion des effects et non de simples paroles.
3. Tiercement, quant aux raisons par lesquelles il seroit bien neces
saire de differer et proroger la Diete de Francfort, il faut considerer
que la puissance d'elire un Roy des Romains et le couronner Empe-
reur, appartenante aux sept Electeurs seuls, c'est l'un des principaux
et plus importants poincts des loix fondamentales de l'Empire, que
de leur conserver la liberty de leurs suffrages, et de ne souffrir qu'ils
soient extorquez par la force des armes, puis que ce seroit pour ouvrir
la porte a quelque usurpation ou tyrannie, et consequemment a la
ruyne et confusion dudit Empire. A quoy on a bien occasion de
prendre garde parmi ces occurrences presentes, ou pour le jourd'huy
soubs pretexte des differents de Boheme on a intreduict dedans
l'Empire un tres grand nombre de gens de guerre, la plus part es-
trangeres, et a la solde d'Espagne, form£ des corps d'armees tout
entieres, et qu'on ne cesse de continuer a, faire des levees en divers
endroits, estant beaucoup meilleur de travailler avant toutes choses a
assopir ce feu et appaiser les troubles de l'Empire que de precipiter

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 125
l'election d'un Roy des Romains, veu qu'avant telle pacification la
dite Diete ne se peut tenir qu'au milieu du bruit des armes, et dont
il s'ensuivroit, que ce n'auroit pas este' par liberte" de suffrages, ains
par la terreur et par force que ladite election se seroit faite, ce que
porteroitun merveilleux et notable prejudice, non seulement auxdits
Ellecteurs, mais aussi a, tous les autres Princes et Estats du dit Em
pire. Lesquels auroient juste suject de leur faire reproche d'avoir
ainsi precipite' ladite election, et de n'avoir plustot aidd a, appaiser
et faire poser les armes, pour pouvoir plus meurement et auec meil-
leure commodite adviser aux necessitez de l'Empire. Aussi ne dero-
geroit une telle prorogation aux loix fondamentales de la Bulle d'Or,
veu principalement qu'en ces dangereuses occurences on ne veoit
aucune persone capable d'appaiser tant de troubles estant eslevee en
ceste dignite, que ce ne soit avec manifeste partiality et au grand
desavantage de la plus part des Princes et Estats, voir de la liberte"
de tout l'Empire.
4. Le quattrieme poinct concerne une cessation d'armes en Bo
heme, et comment au cas qu'on y voulust entendre de part et d'autre,
elle se pourroit faire pour le bien des affaires dudit royaume. Pour
l'esclaircissement de quoy il seroit expedient d'entendre premiere-
ment sur ce l'advis des Estats du royaume. Du temps de feu l'Em
pereur dernier, lors que sa Ma'e Imperiale defera a Monsieur l'EIec
teur de Saxe la charge et commission de moyenner un cessasion
d'armes, remettant a sa pure volonte d'en faire et y proceder comme
il le trouveroit plus apropos, lesdits Estats proposerent les conditions
suivantes. 1. Que son Altesse de Saxe y interposeroit l'engagement de sa
parole, pour asseurance de l'observation.
2. Qu'ils fburniroient des lettres reuersales signees de la main des
Generaux de leur armee, pourveu que les generaux de I'autre partie
fissent le mesme.
3. Que i'armee Imperiale se contiendroit pendant ladite cessa
tion dedans l'enclos des places, lieux et terres qu'elle occupoit alors,
sans s'estendre ne eslargir plus avant, et que I'armee desdits Estats se

126 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
tiendroit de mesmes es lieux, places, et pays qu'elle tenoit tant en
Boheme que sur les terres d'Austriche.
4. Que durant ladite cessation I'armee Imperiale et autres
trouppes qui pourroient s'y venir joindre n'attenteroient aucune
hostility contre les pays de Moravie, de Silesie, de I'Ausuitz et
d'Austriche, et ne les incommoderoient par passages, places monstres,
ou autrement.
5. Qu'il ne seroit permis aux officiers de guerre moins encores aux
soldats de part et d'autre de se visiter ne converser par ensemble
durant ladite cessation d'armes, veu que de telles frequentations et
entreveues pouvoient s'ensuivre plusieurs inconvenients.
6. Que ceux du royaume que l'ont abandonne et se sont retirez
de hors, soient hommes ou femmes, ecclesiastiques ou seculiers, n'y
rentreroient point pendant ladite cessation, ains se tiendroient de
hors es lieux ou ils se trouveroient. Et ceux qui sans permission y
pourroient estre secretement rentrez seroient contraincts d'en des-
loger. 7. Qu'il ne seroit permis de part ne d'autre de faire nouvelles
levees de gens de guerre ni en prendre a solde, sinon pour remplacer
. et rendre complettes les compagnies qu'on avoit levees avant ladite
cessation d'armes.
8. Qu'au mesme instant que ceste cessation seroit publiee a son de
trompettes on cesseroit de faire aucunes nouvelles fortifications.
Finalement, que puis qu'il se pourroit facilement presenter des
occasions capables de donner suject d'alarme, par laquelle la cessation
d'armes seroit troublee, son Altesse de Saxe ordonneroit un Com-
missaire en un certain lieu commode, proche des deux armees, pour
ouyr de part et d'autre les pleintes qu'on pourroit faire, et alors par
le moyen des generaux tant d'une que d'autre armee (si besoing
estoit) composer lesdites pleintes, et en ce faisant tenir le main a
l'observation reciproque de ladite cessation.
Telles estoient, comme dit est, les conditions que lesdits Estats
proposerent alors; mais le temps ayant du depuis fait changer de
face aux affaires, le meilleur servit de scavoir d'eux et de leurs confe-

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 127
derez queues conditions ils y voudroient maintenant adjouter ou
diminuer. 5. Le dernier poinct tesmoigne a, son Altesse Electorale, et aux
autres Princes et Estats Unis avec elle, la charge que mon dit Sr
1' Ambassadeur a de sa Ma'° de la Grande Bretagne, de se declarer
pour les Bohemiens au cas qu*on voulust abuser de son entremise et
bonte", au prejudice desdits Bohemiens. De quoy sadite Altesse et
lesdits Princes et Estats sont tresaises, et se promettent que ceste
declaration, suivie de ses effects, portera quelque bon coup, tant pour
le bien desdits Bohemiens que pour la tranquillity publique, singu-
lierement au bien de tous les Evangelicques de la Germanie, veu que
tous les bons offices que sadite Mate contribue en cest affaire redonde
au proffit et a, Pobligation des uns et des autres. Fait a Heilbron ce
19 de Juin 1619.

No. LXXI.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO JOHN GEORGE, ELECTOR OF SAXONY.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Heidelberg, June £jj ? 1619.]
MONSEIGNEUR,
Les lettres que j'envoye a, Vostre Altesse Serenissime de la part
du Roy de la Grand Bretagne mon maistre vous feront paroistre
que la charge que j'ay d'implorer la favorable assistance de vostre
aucthorite', comme vicaire du S' Empire, pour 1'accommodement des
troubles de la Boheme, qui est le but de mon voyage. Et je supplie
treshumblement vostre Altesse Serenissime de "croire que mon affec
tion particuliere m'y convie avec autant de puissance que le com
mandement de mon maistre. Mais estant adverty que ces guerres
s'aigrissent de jour en jour, et que le Roy Ferdinand faict dessein
de s'acheminer dans peu de jours vers Francfort pour s'y trouver au

128 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
temps de I'election, je suis constrainct a mon regret d'aller droit a,
Vienne, m'asseurant qu'en consideration du bien public V. A. S.
aura pour agreable de pardonner ce deffaut de mon debvoir envers
elle pour le present, ce que je ne manqueray pas d'accomplir selon
que les affaires me le permettront, et par mesme moyen tascher de
me pouvoir qualiffier, Monseigneur,
deV A. S.

No. LXXII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO THE COUNT OF ONATE.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Heidelburg, June ? & 1619.]'
Monsieur,
Je m'asseure qu'il est notoire a Vostre Excellence il y a long
temps que le Roy de la Grande Bretagne mon maistre (a, la priere
de sa Ma*e Catholique) m'a command^ de correspondre avec vous
pour le mediation d'une paix entre le Roy Ferdinand et le Bohe
miens. Et d'autant que mon malheur a voulu que mon voyage
ait este" retards, en premier lieu par l'indisposition de mon maistre,
et en apres par la mort de l'Empereur, avec d'autres impourveiies
et inevitables occasions, j'ay trouve" qu'il estoit necessaire de vous
advertir que je suis en fin parvenu jusques icy, et qu'en passant
je n'ay point neglige de faire tout ce qui a este en mon pouvoir
pour l'accomplissement de l'affaire qui est le subject de mon voyage;.
car a Bruxelles, ayant re9eu commandement de sa Ma'e de prendre
advis et instructions de son Altesse Serenissime l'Archiduc pour ma
conduite en cette negotiation, j'ay obtenu de la piete" et bonte de
son Altesse une lettre au Roi Ferdinand, laquelle je m'asseure aura
beaucoup de force pour disposer sa Ma'e mon maistre envers son
Altesse Serenissime Monseigneur le Prince Electeur Palatine. Je l'ay

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 129
trouve de soy mesme aussi affecteueusement porte que j'eusse sceu
desirer, a me favoriser, et assister de tout son pouvoir et credit
aupres des Bohemiens de vouloir entendre a. un prompt et durable
accord. Je ne doubte pas que vostre Excellence n'aye este" aussi
soigneux d'y disposer le Roy Ferdinand selon les desirs et volontez
de noz maistres, et je me console et resjouys en ce que je seray
supporte soubz le faix de cet important affaire par la prudence d'un
personnage si capable et experiment^ aux affaires d'estat, dont le
bon jugement pourra soulager mon infirmite, et m'obligera par ce
moyen d'estre tel que la reputation de voz vertus m'ont rendu
devant que d'avoir eu l'honneur de vous cognoistre.

No. LXXIII.

VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Heidelberg, June £jj, 1619.]
Right Honorable,
That I may give his Ma'y an accompt of my diligence on the
way, as a thing concerning his Ma'i03 servyce in this my employ
ment, almost as much as my fidelity in the discharge of his com
mandements, it may please you, Sir, to excuse my troubling you
with so meane matter as my gistes.
The boatman, of whose undertaking to transport me from
Cologne to Francfurt in foure dayes I told you in my last of the
4th of this moneth, performed his word within halfe a daye more,
setting me downe at Francfurt the 8th of this June. There I
heard that this worthy Prince, the Elector Palatine, was already
gone in person to the assembly of the Princes of the Union held at
Heilburne, though the Marquis Brandeburgh a and Landgrave of
1 The Margrave of Anspach, who was of the family of the Electors of Brandenburg.
CAMD. SOC. S

130 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
Hesse thought it inough to appeare by their deputyes. Wherupon
I was the lesse grieved for the necessity I found of mispending a
day in that towne in attending the returne of wagons from fayres
abroad. Upon Thursday the 10th I removed to Bintheim, a little towne
upon the frontieres of this Prince his dominions, whither her High
nes sent her coaches to accomodate me ; from whence, upon certayne
information that his Highnes would not returne to Heidelberg before
Saterday, I dispatched Sir Robert Knollys to Heilburne with
letters to Monsieur du Plessin (then also there), humbly praying
him to addresse and assist Sir Robert in the presenting of my
humblest service to his Highnes and the rest of the Princes, toge
ther with my excuse for not posting to the place where I had so
fitt opportunity to wayte on them all together (having letters and
commandes from the King my master to every one of them),
because I feared the report of my being at their Assembly would
give a great alarme to King Ferdinand and his party, and rendre
me useles for their service in this my negotiation ; which reason of
my forbearance it pleased their Highnesses to approve, and to
signify so much to me by a gentleman sent the next day expresly
to me to that purpose.
The same day being advertised that there were lodgings prepared
for me in this castle, and order given for my being brought to them
at my first arrivall, notwithstanding the Prince his being at Heil
burne, I despatched my secretary early in the morning to the Prin-
cesse with charge to represent unto her Highnes how unfitt it
would be for me, not comming now to make a transitory visit, but
directed in quality of his Matiea Ambassador principally to this
Prince, as Chiefe Vicar of the Empire, to be so familiar with his
Highnes as to put my selfe into his house in his absence, what
perplexities it would entangle me in, by putting me to one of these
extremities, either not to goe forth to meete his Highnes at his
returne or els to deliver my errand in an unfit place, whereof I
knew not whether was worse misbeseeming me, what constructions

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 131
might be made of it by other Princes of Germany, and by this
Prince himselfe, if by kissing her Highnes' handes first (as the
manner at Bruxelles is) I should seeme as in his Ma'io9 name to
declare her right of precedence ; which unlucky difference was
heretofore so sweetely buried by their owne goodnes, that it were
a great sinne now to revive it ; humbly beseeching her Highnes
for these reasons to give me leave to lodge in the towne till the
Prince his returne, which I was els resolved to doe against her will,
seing that would be only to my owne losse and torment, of
wanting the happines of her seght when I was now so neere; all
this prevayled nothing against this most sweete Princesse, her
longing to speake with a man that came so neere from the King
her father since his sickenes; and therefore I was forced, contrary
to her Highnes' pleasure, to take up an inne in the towne, where
I was hardly set downe when the Barons of Donaw and Winnem-
berg came thither, charging themselves with a straight command
from the Prince to see that I lay not in the towne, and assuring me
that to that end they had forbidden the marketts to sell me any
provision, as they had indeede; wherupon fearing my obstinacy
might be worse interpreted by their Highnesses then my yielding
could be by others, I at last with all humble thankefulnes embraced
their favor both of lodging and defraying me, which I have here
receyved in such a royall fashion as (to expresse it in a word,) I
must say it is more fit for a Prince then for an Ambassador.
I forbare all the next day to doe my reverence to her Highnes
with her good liking, and with no distast to the Prince as I have
since percey ved. At ten of the clocke that night the Prince came
backe post expresly to heare his Ma'ios pleasure by me, and freed
me of my anxiety how to demeane my selfe toward him by stealing
secretly into his chamber before he was heard of. Next day, being
Sunday, his Highnes out of his desire to understand his Maties will,
appoynted me an audience early before sermon. And here agayne
his Highnes out of the excesse of his respect towards his Ma*ie9 shadow
surprised me by standing himselfe at the doore of the first ro£ime to

132 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
receyve me; which made me, with blushing for too much honor
done to me, present his Ma'ies letters and fatherly affection to his
Highnes and discharge the office of condoleance for the late
Emperor's death, holding it unfitt to say more at that time. I had
the honor that day to dine with their Highnesses, and after dinner
the Prince withdrawing me apart, I added thus much, only more
briefely, that his Ma'» ha'd sent me as a white paper to receyve
impression from his Highnes by the way of information, advise,
and commandement in whatsoever concerned either the affayres of
Bohemia, the election of the Emperor, the generall good of the
Empire, or his Highnes' owne in particular.
The inclosed from his Highnes will let his Ma'^ perceyve for
the matter how thankfully and kindely his Highnes tooke this
message, and for the manner it was beyond my expression. As to
the busines his Highnes let me know that which to my extreame
griefe I had heard before, that the Comte of Mansfelt being of late
sent for by the Comte of Holach (General of that part of the Bohe
mians' army which abides still neare Budewish a) to joyne with him
in some attempt against the Comte de Buquoy, he having some
way gotten notice therof, sent out 2000 horse and 1000 foote to
fall upon the quarter of the Comte Mansfelt soone after they should
be dislodged, wherof Mansfelt understanding returned in person
with 6 troupes of horse only and 6000 foote, was surprised by the
enemy, lost 4 of his troupes and 4000 foote upon the place after
they had bravely maintayned the fight above eight houres. Him
self being hurt escaped with one troupe, the rest were either taken
or scattered. On the other side that which I had before only
doubtfully believed upon common fame, that the Comte de Thurne
(Generall of that part of the Bohemians' army which is marched
into Austria) hath now a good while since lodged himselfe in the
fauxbourgs of Vienne, his Highnes assured me to be most- true by
letters he even then receyved from King Ferdinand signifying
so much, and praying his Highnes to employ his credit with the
* Budweis.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 133
Bohemians for procuring of the Comte his retraict, to the end that
his Ma'y might have safe passage to the election, the hinderance
wherof he tooke to be the Comte's chiefe desseing, although his
Highnes acquainted me with a much nobler, which is, by his
presence to animate those in Austria and Hungaria who favour the
Bohemians' cause to declare themselves on their part, from the
doing whereof they were awed before by that part of King Ferdi-
nandes army which remaynes in Austria under the conduct of the
Comte Dampiere. When his Highnes had made me this descrip
tion of the face of the troubles upon the field, in conclusion he
added that (which dayly beates my eares from all partes) that the
affayres of Bohemia were long so desperately embroyled, and the
humors on both sides so stiffend by those late advantages, that it
was the common judgement of all wise men here, my mediation to
perswade them to hearken to a treaty would prove a tough piece
of worke, and no way likely to take effect; that his Highnes and
the other Princes of the Union were now at Heilburne upon a
finall deliberation how to governe themselves for their owne defence,
and the maintenance of the Reformed religion; that so soone as
they were come to a full resolution (which he thought would be
within ten or twelve dayes), his Highnes would not fayle particu
larly to advertise his Ma*? therof by me. Wherupon I tooke occa
sion to make instance to his Highnes that, since the charge I had
from his Ma'? to use all possible diligence would not give me leave
to attend that time here, it would please his Highnes to deale with
the rest of the Princes, to send his Ma*y a full information at the
breaking up of the Assembly, both of the present state of the
affayres, and of their resolutions grounded on them, and this under
their owne hands, which I urged to be due to his Ma*? as head of
the Union. And for his Matie9 satisfaction I obtayned with all
forwardnes a promise hereof from his Highnes, to the comming
wherof I must refere his Ma'? and you till I can gather more cer-
taintyes by rouling onward on my journey, having no meanes to
informe my selfe further here, this Prince and his Counsell being

134 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
already returned agayne to Heilburne, and I suppose not knowing
much more yet then I have already sucked from them.
But to continue the Prince his reply. Touching the election of
the Emperor, his Highnes sayd, that to the proposition made to
him from his Maty by Sir Isaak Wake in the behalfe of the Duke of
Savoy, he had made answere by letters at the time. That since for
his part he found small hope to advance that Duke's ambitions,
though he were ready, and desirous, to contribute all his 'power to
that end in respect of his Ma"03 commandement. That there had
beene some thoughtes and underhand labouring likewise to promote
the Duke of Bavaria, and speeche also of the Archduke Albert, who
is here also concerned, as I .found at Bruxelles, not much to favor
King Ferdinandes election. But that, notwithstanding all this, and
all that yet appeared (unles it should please God to prevent King
Ferdinandes election by some such unforeseene and unhoped for
good accident, as the unpremeditated beginning of these troubles in
Bohemia was, when otherwise within sixe dayes he was to have
beene chosen King of the Romanes,) there is no doubt but he will
carry the Empire, though that King himselfe be not yet so well
assured of it.
Touching the estate of the Empire in generall, his Highnes tooke
paynes to make me capable in how great disorder it was, and that
the Protestant party was never since their first establishment neither
in so much danger, nor in such apprehension as at the present; all
the Ecclesiastical Princes being in armes, and, as it is feared, intend
ing to bring it to warre of Religion, being promised by the King of
Spayne all his best assistance for the recovering of all Spiritualties
out of the Temporall Princes' handes, so soone as the Election shall
be made to his minde.
And for his owne particular, his Highnes so lively represented to
me, that I must needes judge he was very sensible how neerely he was
interessed in the affayres of Bohemia by the bordering of the Upper
Palatinat upon that kingdome; and how much the choyce of the
Emperor imported his contentment, finding himselfe ever neglected

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 135
by those of the House of Austriche, when they are once made Em
perors, how willingly soever he assented to their making.
This free and large answere to my proposition yielded me infinite
satisfaction, both in respect of the confidence I found his Highnes
reposed in me, and of the maturity I found in his Highnes' discourse,
yet I thought it necessary to intreate a conference with his consellors,
which being granted me by his Highnes, they all in all poyntes held
the same language. Wherupon I was perplexed with many crabbed
thoughtes, from some part whereof I disincombred my selfe at last
by comming to a resolution which I pray God may be as well ap
proved by his Ma'y as it was ripely advised, and without all selfe
respectes entertayned by me.
It is, to presume so farre upon his Maties clemency, and I trust
beliefe of the sincerity of my intentions to doe that which my little
judgment perswades me to conduce most to his Ma1"09 service, as
contrary to his expresse command specified in my Instructions to lay
aside my journey to the Duke of Saxony, being at the least twelve
dayes journey out of my way. For the justification of which boldnes
I humbly pray you, Sir, if yow fmde it needfull, to fortifie these
reasons which induced me to it. First, the command so straightly
charged on me to use my utmost diligence and endeavour to pro
cure a cessation of armes in Bohemia, and those partes, lyes still upon
my heart. And, though for no other consideration, yet to the end
that his Maty may have the honor therof alone, I held it necessary
for me to take this resolution, hearing that the French King is dis
patching an ambassador to the same effect, who might well have
prevented me had I gone about by Dresden.
Next, for obtayning the cessation it selfe, it is highe time for me
to hasten to be upon the place, for feare these may be some greater
blow given on my comming then is yet heard of. And yet this
small defeate which Comte Mansfeld hath receyved is sayd to have
so much erected King Ferdinandes hope of victory, that I can devise
no other meanes left of strength to perswade him to hearken to lay
ing downe of armes, but by working upon his jealousy of missing to

136 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
be Emperor before he finde how sure his cardes are. And to that pur
pose, with the applause of this Prince and his Counsell, it hath come
into my minde to spende one of the blankes (wherewith his Ma'?
pleased to entrust me) upon a letter to the Duke of Bavaria, as the
Prince of whom King Ferdinand is and hath most reason to be
jealous, having one Elector a to his brother, and being descended of
another's house." If I finde no cause to change this desseing, I pur
pose to bestow one day in posting over to that Prince his court,
and yow shall then receyve a copy of the letter I intend to frame.
For I will not hazard the spoyling of a blanke till I come to the
very poynt to use it.
Thirdly, this Prince and his counsell (who speake the language of
Heilburne) are of judgment that nothing would be more advan-
tagious to their party, nor more usefull to the good of the Empire,
then if the Election could by any meanes be prorogued for a moneth,
or some such short breathing space, and have therefore dealt ear
nestly with me to draw King Ferdinand, if it be possible, to joyne
with them in the same request to the Princes Ecclesiastical!, which.
they imagine he may not be unwilling to give eare unto, while he
is yet doubtfull of the issue of the Election. And to this end I
have already courted the Count d'Oniat c with a messenger, and a
letter, (the copy wherof yow finde inclosed1,) because that Comte is
conceyved to have a great power with King Ferdinand, and it is
thought will accompany him to the Election.
These are the reasons which overswayed me to adventure on the
transgression of his Ma*"* commandment. Which, though I hope will
be strong inough to excuse the fact to his Matio9 goodnes now it is
done, yet they should never have had force to draw me to doe it, if
I could have foreseene any fruite of my going to Dresden worthy
the expense of so much pretious time as it would have cost me.
But this Prince among other freedomes hath opened to me that
» The Elector of Cologne.
b The House of Wittelsbach, to which the Electors Palatine belonged.
c The Spanish Ambassador at Vienna. d No. LXXII.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 137
since the death of the Emperor he hath more than once, both by
ambassages and letters, tempted that Duke's inclination to the con
curring with him in such things during this vacancy as might hap
pen to import either the publique tranquillity or the Protestant
party. That to some of his letters he had receyved no answere, and
to others such dilatory ones as gave him good foundation to build
a firme judgement that Saxe is no lesse inflexible then his name
beares to all correspondence with his Highnes. The solicitation
wherof in his Ma4109 name being all the busines I had in charge to that
Court, I hope his Ma'y will pardon my omission of the rest, being but
a complement upon the above written considerations. And yet for
the discharge of my duty in that also, I have sent his Matiea letter by
a gentleman, and taken the boldnes to write a few lines also from
my selfe,a wherein I promise to wayte on his Highnes at the first
leysure the publique occasions will allow me, which notwithstanding
I hope his Ma'^ will not require of me.
The Deputyes for the States of Bohemia now at Heilburne have
from thence by Sir Henry Wotton's handes sent me the coppy of the
two letters which his Ma'? hath formerly receyved from those States,
together with their earnest desires to understand what answere his
Ma*y had either himselfe made or given me commission to deliver
unto their expectation of secours of moneyes mentioned in them.
Which I have found better to suppresse and conceale from them,
because I feared they would not report it with such reasonable
satisfaction to the Bohemians as I shall endeavor to doe upon the
place. And in the meane time the knowledge thereof can doe no
good, and may doe hurt, by diminishing his Maties authority, and so
weakening my mediation. And here, because I finde the world hath
not so much hope of the effect of my negotiation as I have, and shall
have in God Almightyes blessing and his Ma'ies happines till I see
more cause to the contrary, give me leave to conjure you, by all your
care of his Ma'ios honor and love of me, to procure, and send me
with all possible speede by an expresse messenger, his Ma'les full and
» No. LXXI.
CAMD. SOC. T

138 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
cleere resolution what he will require me to doe in case King Fer
dinand should prove so obstinate as is here conceyved; because, if it
should so fall out for me to lye idly at his Court till my advertise
ments of his implacablenes have time to finde his Ma'* in his pro-
gresse, and his Matios commandements to come backe to me, will
shew more respect to that King in his Matios Minister then his
Minister hath expressed to our Master, and can in my poore opinion
admitt none but disadvantageous and dishonourable constructions,
wherof I should be loath to be the occasion. Though on the other
side I am resolved to be so curious in giving that King and those of
his party full measure of all respects due to them, that the most
punctilious criticall Spaniard shall have no just cause to compleyne.
The length of the journey I am to make before I shall have occa
sion to trouble you agayne hath made me at this time presume
thus much upon your patience in delivering you all I know con
cerning busines, and I will not vexe you with any ceremony, but
rest truly and eternally
Your most affectionate friende
and faythfull humble servant,
Doncaster.
Sir,
Since the writing of this dispatch I have receyved yours of the
2nd of June, wherunto I finde no occasion to make other returne
then of my joy to finde his Ma'? and you well satisfied with that I
had then done, as the conscience of my good meaning promiseth me
you wilbbe no lesse with that I did after at Bruxelles, and have
ventured one here, whereof I shall long to be assured from you.
I have beene put to open this packet once agayne by the receipt
of the inclosed from the Princes of the Union since it was shut up,
together with a libellous booke from Scioppius, and certeyne adver
tisement that King Ferdinand is preparing to come to Francfurt, if
he be not already on his way, which I hope will give his Ma'?
full satisfaction for my not going to Saxony, and shall make me
carefull to lay my gistes so that I misse not that King in my

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 139
journey towards him, which I begin within this hour if it please
God, to whose most blessed protection I commend you, and remayne
Your faythful servant,
Doncaster.
19 Junii, at Hydelberg.

No. LXXIV.
FREDERICK V. ELECTOR PALATINE TO SIR ISAAC WAKE.
[State Papers. Savoy.] [Heilbronn, June |g, 1610.]
Monsieur. Par la copie cy-joincte dela lettre que j'escri a Mon
sieur le Due de Savoy mon cousin, vous verrez plus particulierre-
ment les causes pour lesquelles je l'ay pri6, tant pour moy qu'au
nom des Princes et Estats Unis avec moy, de vouloir disposer la
Seignno de Venise a, nous entretenir pour l'espace d'environ six moise,
et nous envoyer au plustost la cavallerie Allemande qu'elle a pour
le present a sa solde. Et encores que je me tien bien asseure de la
bonne intention dudit Seigneur Due a, s'employer en un si bon
ceuvre, puisqu'il concerne l'interest commun : si est ce que pour tant
plus advancer ceste affaire, j'ay bien voulu, pour la ferme confiance
que j'ay de vostre sincere affection envers le bien public, et singu-
lierement en mon endroit, y adj outer ce mot expres pour vous prier,
comme je fay bien fort, non seulement de delivrer l'original de ma-
dite lettre, mais aussy de contribuer vos bonnes offices et tenir la
main, a, ce qu'elle puisse au plustost sortir l'effect esperd, et de me
procurer et faire tenir cependant la response dudit Seigneur, pour
selon icelle me regler : En quoy vous me ferez un singulier plaisir :
et l'obligation que je vous en auray me conviera a, la recognoistre
avec autant de bonne volonte" que je fay d'estime de vos merites ; estant,
Monsieur, vostre tresaffectionne ami,
Fkideric, E. P.
De Heilbron le fg- de Juin 16l9.a
1 Appended to this letter is a copy of the proposition made to the Venetian Ambassador
by Wake in accordance with the Elector's request.

140 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS

No. LXXV.
CHARLES, PRINCE OF WALES, TO VISCOUNT DONCASTER.'
[Holograph. State Papers. Germany.] [Greenwich, June 5' 1619.1
July 7, J
Doncaster,
I am verrie glad to heer that my brother is of so rype a judge
ment and of so forward an inclination to the good of Christendume as
I fynd by you he is. You may assure your selfe I will be glade not
onlie to assiste him with my countenance, but also with my person,
if the King my father will give me leave. For the seconde part
of your letter I assure you I lyke it verrie well. I hope you shall
fynde your olde frend (the Marquesse of Neuechattell) of the sam
opinion ye laste lefte him in ; if not, I would he wer. The Span-
yards intertaines us still with faire opes of real proceeding ; if they
deal honnestlie, it's weall ; housoever we will looke narrowlie to
them that the disseave us not. Don Diego a is not on his jurney
to cume from Spaine yet. So, assuring you I will stoppe my eares
lyke the serpents if they be inchanters, I rest
Your assured frende,
Charles, P.
Greenwich, the 27 of June, 1619.

No. LXXVI.
SIR ISAAC WAKE TO THE MARQUIS OF BUCKINGHAM. [Extract.]
[State Papers. Savoy.] ™ . June 29, , ,,,„ ,
[Turin,  - 1619.1
L July 9,
This weeke here is arrived a currier out of Germanie with newes
" Printed by Mr. Sainsbury in his Original Papers relating to Rubens, 118, note.
0 Gondomar.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 141
that hath somewhat afflicted the Duke. For having understood
of a great rout given unto the Count of Mansfelt by the Count of
Burquoy, and of the retraict of the Count de la Tour a from Vienna,
he doth feare that the Spanishe succors (which by this time wilbe
arrived with King Ferdinand) comming in so fatal a conjuncture
maye ad so much reputation to his affaires, and so farr dismaye the
Bohemians, that if they do not receave some present comfort and
incoragement from his Ma'10 and the Princes of the Union, togeather
with the States of the Lowe Countries, they will hardly be able to
subsist, and be inforced to yeld to disadvantagious conditions.
On the other side the Venetian Ambassador hath comforted him a
little with an advertisement which he hath receaved from his
masters, importing that the Duke of Saxony hath declared himselfe
in favor of the Bohemians, and that he hath sent them 500 horse
for their defence, which newes doth seeme unto this Prince to good
to be true, although he be loath to question the credit of it for the
author's sake.
The Count of Mansfelt hath dispatched a gentleman hither in
dilligence to desyre of the Duke of Savoy 100m crownes towards
the reinforcing of his broken regiment with newe recrewes, and the
Duke of Savoy hath returned him back this answere, that he had
promised to continue that Regiment onely so long as I might con
veniently go into England, and returne backe againe to Turin, and
and that now he doth account himselfe free from that ingagement,
considering that I have not moved him in his Ma'ioa name to con
tinue for any longer time the paye of those troupes. I must con-
fesse I have purposely beene silent therein, because I had no com
mission from his Ma'io to speake to that purpose, and, finding that
the Duke of Savoy hath already spent uppon those troupes 200m
crownes since I first sent them to the Prince Palatine, and that in
Germany they have not hitherto requited this singuler benefitt with
any eminent demonstration of gratitude, I dare not presume without
warrant from my master to passe anie such office in favor of third
• The Count of Thurn.

142 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
persons. For it is a charge that would be felt in the purse of a
greater and ritcher Prince then the Duke of Savoy; and, although
some hope of advantage that might accrewe unto himselfe or to his
howse did induce him at the first to imbarque himselfe in that
buisinesse, yet doth he putt it wholy to the account of his Ma'10,
professing that purely and simplye in contemplation of his Matl0 he
sent those troupes to the Prince Palatine, and that he wilbe ready
to continue the paye of them when he shalbe required in his Matiea
name so to do.
If this secours should be withdrawne from the Bohemians at this
time it would be a great weakening unto them, and therefore if his
Matio thinke fit to have the Duke of Savoy moved therein, it wilbe
very necessarye that I receave such order by an expresse currier,
for the ordinary posts do come so slowly that I cannot expect by
them anie answere of this letter in two months and more, which
would be to much time to be lost for the Bohemians, considering
how much they are streightened at present.
Perhaps I may shortly receave from the Prince Palatine and my
Lord of Doncaster some incoragement to drawe on the continuance
of this secours a month longer, and by that time, or shortly after,
I will hope to understand his Majestyes pleasure, and directions
from your Lordship how to governe my selfe herein.
The Duke of Savoy is of opinion' that if his Ma*"0 would move
the Venetians once more to contribute something towards the assist
ance of the Bohemians, he should find them in this conjuncture well
disposed to gratifie him therein, and I do find by the Venetian
Ambassador here, that they do wishe very well to the affaires of the
Bohemians, and are glad to heare when they do prosper. I dare not
of myselfe make this motion unto the Venetian Ambassador, notwith
standing that the Duke of Savoy doth much desyre it, and therefor
I will humbly desyre your Lordship that in this perticuler likewise I
maye receave his Maties commandements with convenient expedition.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 143
No. LXXVII.
MAXIMILIAN, DUKE OF BAVARIA, TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Munich, July £, 1619.]
Serenissime Rex,
Literas Regia? Dignitatis vestra? tradidit nobis admodum Illustris
vir Jacobus Haius Doncastria? Vicecomes, ab interioribus cubiculis
familiaris et in secretiore consessu consiliarius, legatusque Regia?
Dignitatis Vestra? ad Sacri Romani Imperii vicarios, atque simul,
tain de sua legatione in sedando Bohemia? bello et festituenda
Germania? tranquillitate, quam de Regia? Dignitatis vestra? benevo
lentia propenso in nos animo et singulari confidentia, uti in mandatis
habebat, coram exposuit; officioque suo pro ea qua pra?ditus est
insigni dexteritate apud nos egregie functus est. Ex quo cum
inprimis laudabilem vigilantiam ac solicitudinem Regia? Dignitatis
vestra? de procuranda Germania? et Imperii salute, turn etiam
mirificam in nos animi affectionem de qua nullum nobis unquam
dubium fuit animadverterimus, non solum ea res accidit nobis
perquam jucunda, verum etiam Regia Dignitas vestra majori
serviendi studio nos sibi devinxit, prout eidem obsequia nostra
omneque officii studium quacunque oblata occasione et ad nutum
promptissimo animo deferimus, ipsumque legatum ut Regiae Dig-
nitati vestra? nomine nostro ea pluribus renunciaret rogavimus.
Quam Deus Optimus Maxiraus rebus secundis cumulet et diutissime
incolumen servet. Datum ex civitate nostra Monachio, die 1 1 men
sis Julii, anno m.dc.xix. Majestatis Vestrae Regiae
Consanguineus et servitof promptissimus
Maximilianus.

144 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. LXXVIII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Munich, July & 1619.]
Right Honorable,
My last was from Ulme of the 24th June, sent by an expresse
post to Heydelberg, to be from thence conveyed to you by the
next ordinary. In that I gave you an accompt of my purpose to
have gone downe by the Danube to Vienna, and of my change
of that purpose upon the advertisement I receyved, both from
Heydelberg and Augusta, that King Ferdinand was then already
on his way to Francfurt. This was confirmed to me at Augusta,
where I had leysure to repose two dayes (one of them being Sunday
the 27th of June), because, according to the gistes I found there
of King Ferdinand his coming on to the election, I could not
meete him at any convenient place beyound Saltzburg, and should
be there before him though I made easy journeys. Munichen lay
now so directly in my way that I could not passe by the Duke of
Bavaria unsaluted without a manifest neglect of him, and losse of
much information I might draw from him, both of the disposition
of King Ferdinand and of the affayres, which I thought neces
sary to heare reported from both sides. And therefore I found
it behoofefuU in these considerations to hold to my purpose of
spending one of the blankes upon this Prince, though I had almost
layd aside the dessein which first made me thinke of going to
his court. For, by the way, I had found meanes to learne, without
enquiring, that this Duke, in respect of his sicklines and conse
quently love of a retired life, was altogether aliened from all
ambition of being Emperor though it should be offered him, and
hath declared himselfe so cleerely therein, that King Ferdinand
was for that cause more free from all jealousy of his competition
then he would have beene otherwise, for all their alliance and

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 145
brotherhoode. Wherefore I commanded my Secretary to draw
the inclosed letter,a by the patterne of those I have to other Princes,
in such a generall forme that I might by my discourse give it any
shape according as occasion should rise under my hand.
And thus provided I went on to Munichen, where I found our
great master's name so much and truly reverenced by the Duke
and all his servantes, as they have fully expressed it to me both in
wordes and deedes, that I cannot repent me, and I trust his Ma"
will not blame me for paying a respect so justly due to his High
nes, though I have presumed to doe it without warrant. I was
mett about a mile out of the towne by the Comte de Tilliers,b some
time Generall in Hungary, and now to this Prince, attended with
divers gentlemen of the best quality, and a brave troupe of horse
his Highnes entertayneth for his garde. At the Pallace (which
I thinke is second to none in Europe) I was receyved by the
Comte de Salerne, Grand Maistre, attended with the Prince his
foote garde, lodged there in the Duke's absence, notwithstanding
all I was able to say or doe to the contrary, royally entertayned
and defrayed during my stay, which by necessity was two dayes,
because his Highnes, being in a course of phisicke, could not come
» The following (State Papers, Germany) is probably the letter in question : —
"Jacobus Dei gratia Magna; Britannioe, Franciae et Hibernise Rex, Fidei Defensor, &e.
IUm° atque excellentissimo Principi ac Domino, Domino Maximiliano Comiti Palatino
ad Rhenum, Duci utriusque Bavarian, eonsanguineo et amico nostro charissimo. Illus-
trissime Princeps, consanguinee et amice charissime, Quum ea quae nos semper tenuit pro
Rep. Christiana solicitudo hortata sit nobilem hunc et illustrem virum Jacobum Haium,
Doncastrise Vicecomitem, consanguineum nostrum, ad Sacri Romani Vicarios Legatum
mittere, ut si qua fieri possit, illius nostro nomine studio aspirante horum autoritati,
depulsa belli Bohemici nube, universal Germanise tranquillitas reddatur, dedimus et
insuper in mandatis ad vestram quoque Celsitudinera, nobis multa, et sanguinis et affini-
tatis necessitudine conjunctissimam, officii et eonsilii cauVa accedere, simulque suam
operam ultro offerre sicubi Celsitudini vestra! esse possit usui, quod eum pro officio
sedule facturum uti nos certo scimus, ita eandem omniuo a Celsitudine vestra illi haberi
fidem ac si nos ipsi presentes loqueremur valde cupimus et rogamus.
"Deus Opt. Max. Celsitudinem vestram quam diutissime sospitem et florentem servet.
Dat. e Palatio nostro Westm. 28° Apr. 1619."
b Tilly.
CAMD. SOC. U

146 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
from his countrey house the first, and never useth to give audience
there. I will not adventure to send his Ma'? a character of this Prince
his excellent partes under my hand, which I am assured hath beene
ere this done more masterly by Sir Henry Wotton. But two
thinges I must say. First, that his Highnes is exceedingly mis
understood to their shame that have reported him to his Ma4* for
a Jesuited Prince ; from which imputation he is so innocent that,
were it not for the reverence of his yet living father who brought
that vermin into this countrey, they were it may be in some dan
ger of being driven out by his Highnes, who doth now only allow
and not favor them. Next, that no subject or servant of our
master's can make larger or stronger professions of honoring his
Ma'y then his Etighnes hath done to me, and yet if I have any
skill his complexion is nothing complementall.
That which I sayd to his Highnes was no more then a para
phrase upon the letter, with an addition of his Matles knowledge
and respect of his vertues, and an intreaty that, as he did simpathize
with his Ma'y in many of them, and particularly in his affection to
the publique tranquillity, so he would be pleased to shew it now
by concurring with his Ma'y in perswading King Ferdinand to give
way therunto. For in that day I spent here among his servantes
I got so much cleerenes of the truth of that I had heard before
concerning his Highnes abhorring all thoughtes of being Emperor,
that I resolved it could doe nothing but harme to touch never
so daintily upon that string. And if there be any humor of
jealousy in King Ferdinand, my comming hither from Heydelberg,
though saying nothing, will stirre it no lesse powerfully and much
more safely.
His Highnes' answere to the letter you finde inclosed. That which
he made to my enlargement began with a protestation that he es
teemed the letter from his Ma** delivered by me to be the greatest
honor he yet ever receyved ; that if God had blessed him with any
children he would have left it to them for a most pretious piece, and

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 147
charged them on his blessing to honor and serve his Ma'^ and his
posterity ; that himselfe should esteeme it the greatest happines could
befall him if his Ma'y could finde any occasion to make a tryall
whether he spake those wordes from his heart or not. And so, after
he had continued long in the same stile, in conclusion he required
me to employ the service I professed to him, in being his agent with
his Ma'y to assure him of his humblest affection and service. The
request I made to him he granted, by giving me commission to say
what I would as from him to King Ferdinand, wherein he promised
to avow me, but sayd he doubted not but I should finde his brother
so respective of his Maties mediation that I should not neede to use
his name, which would have lesse strength. This his Highnes was
bound to say for his brother. But the language of his court is quite
other; and the same I heard at Heydelberg -upon the very same
groundes, and this new one, that King Ferdinand challengeth that
kingdome as hereditarily decended on him, and if that be yet dis
putable, that he will at last so determine it by conquest. Touching
that King being on the way to Francfurt, and where, (wherof I
humbly prayed to be certainly informed, that I might accordingly
dispose of my journey,) he protested that he could give me no satis
faction, having heard no word neither from his owne agent, nor from
that King since the advertisement he receyved aboute a ten dayes
since of his purpose to lye here in his passage to the election, and of
his intention to goe about by Gratz, because he found the way
thorough Upper Austria unsafe for him. This he sayd he found as
strange as I could doe, but thought it was occasioned by the incer-
tainty whether the election be yet, or will be at all deferred, the reso
lution wherof was conceyved to be the Elector of Mayence his busines
at Heydelberg, but there is yet here no certayne newes of the issue.
In fine he came to say, the best advice he could give me was to abide
here in his house till I could informe my selfe better, for feare I
might make more hast then speede in going away, and pressed me
with infinite curtesy to accept this kinde offer, which notwithstand
ing I refused, because the least lingring bringeth me more vexation

148 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
of minde then any travell can give my body, and by conference with
the Comte de Tilliers (who doth most perfectly understand those
countryes) I am at least directed a way whereby I cannot misse of
King Ferdinand wheresoever he now be, the relation wherof I leave
My L. Lisle, to this my noble worthy brother-in-law, whom I beseeche yow, Sir,
to use with the same kindnes of affection you would do me, and to
intreat his Ma'y to give him thankes for honoring this legation thus
farre with his company, which he would have continued to the end,
but that he is recalled by privat urgent occasions.
Sir, you see with what stuffe I entertayne your time and mine
owne, which surely might be both better employed if my fortune
were no worse then my will. But I am bound to give his Ma** an
accompt how I spend it, though it be not to my minde. I hope I
shall one day send yow something better worth your trouble, if my
inabilityes doe not then make my paynes as unprofitable as my
idlenes is now. But I shall at least have more occasion to shew my
industry and fidelity in my master's service, which is all I have pro
mised, and can performe, except it be my prayers to God Almighty
to blesse his Ma'r and me for his sake with happy successe in this
employment, which I doe dayly begge upon my knees, and now in
that posture humbly kisse his Matios sacred handes, and rest
Your most affectionate and faythfull humble servant,
Doncaster.
Munichen, this 2d of Julie, 1619.
Sir,Let me humbly pray you to procure a letter of acknowledgment
from his Ma'y to this Prince, which avowment will cleere my con
science from the guiltines of having abused so worthy a prince. Sir,
as I was closing this packet, I receyved almost full assurance that
King Ferdinand is still at Vienna, and a reason therof, which I have
committed to my Ld Lisle.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 149
No. LXXIX.
JOHN GEORGE ELECTOR OF SAXONY TO VISCOUNT DONCASTER.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Dresden, July ¦& 1619.]
Dei gratia Johanes Georgius Saxoniae, Julia?, Clivia? et Montium
Dux, Sacri Romani Imperii Archimarescallus, Elector et ejusdem
Imperii iis in locis, qua? jure utuntur Saxonico, Vicarius, &c.
Nobilis et illustris Domine, sincere nobis dilecte, gratiam et bene-
volentiam nostram tibi denunciamus. Ex serenissimi Principis Do
mini Jacobi, Magnse Britannia?, Francia? et Hybernia? Regis, Domini
consanguinei et affinis nostri charissimi, transmissis Uteris Regiae ad
nos ablegationis causam, tuis vero quam ob rem iter ad Hungaria? et
Bohemia? Regem Ferdinandum fratrem nostrum charissimum sus-
ceperis cognovimus. Et sicut Regia? nobis fuerunt jucundissima?,
quippe pacificatoria?, et amoris benevolentia? et humanitatis plena?,
ita gratissimus nobis tuus fuisset adventus coram, ut benevolum Re
gia? Serenitatis animum percipere, mentem nostram Regiam erga
Serenitatem bene affectam declarare, et tibi tanquam legato Electo-
ralem favorem exhibere potuissemus. Cum vero adducta? causa?
pra?sentiam denegarint, te excusatum non solum habemus, verum
etiam ad tractanda et perficienda injuncta successus animi ex sen-
tentia optamus.
Laboravimus et nos in pace reducenda, et quidem strenue acta for-
tassis et probasset exitus, ni mors summi intervenisset Imperatoris,
etbonam nostram intervertissetintentionem. Laborabunt tamen hac
in re et Co-electores nostri absentiumque legati Francofurti jam con-
gregati, et eo diligentius quo impensius id efflagitat Electorale offi-
cium, Romani Imperii status, et summum imminens periculum.
Laudabiles quorum conatus et nos pro virili annuente Dei gratia
promo vebimus.
Ad Regias responsum distulimus tuo de adventu non certiorati.
Officio vero non deerimus nostro, si certi quid hac in parte nobis

150 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
constabit. Vale et quidem bene, et ab clementissimo Electore nil
nisi clementiam et Electoralem favorem expecta. Dabantur Dresdae,
3 Julii anno 1619. Johannes Georgius, Elector.

No. LXXX.

JAMES I. TO THE PRINCES OF THE UNION.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Oatlands, July ^, 1619.]
Messieurs nous treschers Filz et Cousins, — Nous avons
este" bien marris d'intendre par la lettre * qu'il vous a pleu nous
escrire de Heylbron le 17 Juin ce que vous nous avez represente
de I'estat dangereux des affaires presentes de l'Empire, et les fortes
apprehensions que vous avez que le feu qui est aUume" en la Bo
heme ne vienne a s'espardre et a. embraser toute l'Allemagne. A
quoy certes nous ne pourrions que compatir et porter nos sentiments
bien vifs avec les vostres, pour l'interest et l'affection commune que
nous avons avec vous a, ce que est de la conservation de la Religion
et les libertez dudit Empire. Et ne pouvons que vous exhorter, prier
et conjurer en tant qu'en nous est, de vouloir apporter tout ce qui
dependra de vostre soing, pouvoir et prudence pour empescher le
cours de ce mal, et le contenir, jusqu'a ce qu'il puisse estre assoupi,
dans les bornes du siege qu'il a pris, de peur qu'il ne vienne a trou-
bler le repos general de la Chrestiente, et faire ouverture aux mal-
heureux desseings de l'ennemi commun d'icelle. Nous avons a ceste
fin envoye un Ambassade expres et solemnel en vos quartiers avec
non moindres frais que nos eust peu couster un bon secours ; dont
nous esperons que le fruit et les effects seront tels qu'il aydera a
estouffer ce mal a. sa naissance. Mais vous nous permettrez de vous
dire qu'il nous a semble" un peu estrange que si soudainement apres
a No. LXVII.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 151
le renouvellenient recent de la ligue que nous avons faite avec vous
vous nous sommiez de vous envoyer secours; lequel par la nature et
conditions de ladite ligue ne doibt estre que pour vostre defensive,
et ne peut avoir lieu jusqu'a ce que vous soyez assailis, suivant les
termes expres d'icelle ; a quoy, graces a Dieu, nous ne voyons pas
que soyez encores reduits, et nous asseurons bien confidemment que
ne le serez pas, vous comportans avec la retenue et moderation que
nous nous promettons de vous ; puis que c'est a l'instante requisition
du Roy d'Espagne que nous nous interposons pour la pacification de
ces troubles, lequel aussy nous a depuis nagueres grandement remer-
ciez par ses lettres de la diligence que nous avons apportee a. ce bon
office par l'envoy de nostre dit Ambassadeur, se donnant asseurance
par la creance qu'il dit que nous avons tant envers la maison d'Aus
triche qu' envers les Princes de vostre Union et les estats de Boheme,
que personne ne peut operer avec plus d'efficace et de fruit a ce bon
effect que nous. Et tout recentement nous avons aussy regeu pa-
reilles lettres de remerciements sur ce subject de l'Archeduc Albert,
pour tesmoignage du desir que l'un et I'autre a de voir ces esmotions
accoisees en l'Empire. Avec quoy nous vous prierons aussy de con
sidered que tandis que nous faisons cest office, et tenons la qualite de
mediateur, ils n'est pas convenable que nous nous declarions pour
l'un ny I'autre parti; a fin de ne perdre l'authorite" et creance, et
avec icelle l'effect de nostre intervention. Mais s'il advenoit que;
l'entremise de nostre dit Ambassadeur ayant fait condescendre les
Bohemiens a l'acceptacion de conditions justes, c'est assavoir que
soyent raisonnables et seures pour eux, le Roy Ferdinand refusast de
se mettre a mesme raison de son coste, en ce cas nous sommes re-
solus et promettons de ne point abandonnez ceux de nostre profes
sion, mais d'agir a bon escient pour les secourir et defendre. Qui est
ce que Ion peut raisonnablement requerir de l'obligation de nostre
assistance. Et ainsy nous demeurerons, Messieurs nos tres chers Filz
et Cousins.
A nostre Maison d'Otelandes,
ce 4™= de Juillet, 1619.

152 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. LXXXI.
JAMES I. TO FREDERICK V. ELECTOR PALATINE.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Oatlands, July ^,1619.]
Monsieur mon trescher Filz, — Vous verrez par le lettre gene-
rallea que nons escrivons a. Messrs les Princes de 1' Union la reponce que
nous leur faisons sur l'instance que par la leur escrite b de Heylbron ils
nous ont faite de leur envoyer secours comme y estans tenus par les
conditions de la ligue que nous avons recentement renouvellee avec
eux. Et y avons bien voulu adj ouster celle-oy vers vous en particu
lier pour vous dire qu'ayant si sognoeusement fait entendre a vostre
Ambassadeur le Baron de Dona, estant dernierement icy, ce que
nous desirions vous communiquer de bouche a vous seul comme
l'enfant de la maison, sans que cela fust en aucune fagon publie par .
traite" ou autrement, C'est assavoir, que si lesditz Princes de l'Union
venoyent a, estre assaillis encores que par les articles de ladite ligue
lz pourroyent nous demander les secours stipulez, toutesfois parce
que I'estat de nos affaires estoit tel et nos finances tellement diminuees
par les occasions extraordinaires de despense qui nous estoyent sur-
venues tant au dedans comme au dehors que nous ne pourrions pas
fournir presentement aux frais et a la solde dudit secours, nous de
sirions, si dans un an la necessity se presentoit de nous faire ladite
demande, que lesditz Princes voulussent faire l'emprunt des deniers
en nostre nom pour la premiere annee, lesquels nous promettions de
repayer au bout d'icelle, et de continuer par apres nous mesmes le
payement dudit secours. Nous nous sommes un peu esbahis que
vous, a, qui nous avions donne" ceste cognoissance secrete de I'estat
pregnant de nous affaires, non seulement ne soyez alle' au devant de
cette instance desditz Princes que nous vient si hors de saison, mais
aussy avez permis qu'ilz ayent prevenu par icelle le juste temps de
» No. LXXX. b No. LXVII.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 153
la requisition qui ne doibt avoir lieu que lors qu'ilz se trouveront
assaillis, et mesmes apres qu'ilz nous auront rendus pleinement in-
formez et satisfaits de la justice d'icelle, ainsy que nous feismes aussy
entendre audit Baron de Dona par la bouche de nostre cousin le
Due de Lenox, et de nostre Secretaire d'Estat, parce qu' autrement
ledit secours pourroit estre employe au prejudice des traitez et de
l'amitie que nous avons avec d'autres princes. Nous luy dismes de
plus que, si de gayete de coeur ilz venoyent a provoquer leurs voisins,
nous ne nous tiendrions pas obligez de les defendre contre le juste
ressentement et vengeance qu'on en voudroit prendre, n'estant nostre
ligue fondee que pour la defense et manutention des droits et libertez
de l'empire ; outre que, pour le propre interest de la dignite" que nous
tenons, il ne nous seront pas expedient ny convenable d'animer par
un tel exemple les courages des subjetts a la re volte contre leurs
princes ny a des attentats extravagants et illegitimes. Ce que nous
vous avons bien voulu faire entendre a fin que, par l'authorite' que
vous avez maintenant en l'Empire, et principalement parmi les
Princes del'Union, vous taschier de lez contenir dans les bornes d'une
juste defence,' et qu'aussy par 1'affection filiale que vous nous portez
vous ayez soing a, l'advenir de mesnager tellement nos interests en
ces occurrences (sans prejudicier a celuy de nostre honneur) que
nous affaires en puissent recevoir le soulagement que leur est a.
present necessaire. Ce que nous promettans confidemment de vous,
nous prierons Dieu, Monsieur mon trescher filz, qu'il vous ait tous
jours en sa sainte garde. A nostre maison d'Otelandes ce 4omo de
Juillet, 1619.

CAMD. SOC. X

154 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
NO. LXXXII.
FERDINAND II. , KING OF HUNGARY AND BOHEMIA, TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Salzburg, July J,, 1619.]
Ferdinandus Secundus, Dei gratia Hungaria? et Bohemia?, &c.
Rex, Archidux Austria?, Dux Burgundiae, Styria?, Carinthia?,
Carniolae, Marchio Moravia?, et Comes Tyrolis, &c. Serenissimo
ac potentissimo Principi ac Domino Domino Jacobo, Dei gratia
Magna? Britannia?, Francia?, et Hybernia?, &c. Regi, fratri, consan-
guineo et amico nostro charissimo, salutem et felicitatem. Serenis
sime princeps, frater, consanguinee et amice charissime, tarn ex literis
Serenitatis vestra?, quam ad honorificam hanc ejusdem legationem
apud nos peragendam destinata? persona? nobilis et illustris viri
Jacobi Haii, Doncastriae Vicecomitis, &c. relatione, sufficienter non
minus quam perlibenter intelliximus bonam Serenitatis vestra? affec-
tionem erga nos et augustam domum nostram luculenter declaratam,
intentionem nimirum ac desiderium ostendendo, quatenus in alma
pace et quiete Regna et ditiones nostra?, opera quoque conciliationis
Serenitatis vestrae perdurare valerent; quo nomine ut pronum hunc
vostrum affectum arnica significatione nos suscepisse expertum esse
possit, omni occasione respondere handquaquam pra?termissuri sumus.
Et quidem circa motus Bohemicos planam et uberem omnium
notitiam, prasfato Serenitatis vestra? legato (ipso juxta desiderium
vestrum facile ad alloquium admisso et audito) fecimus, unde nimi
rum a quo Serenitatis quoque vestra? calculo et censura animum
nostrum pads amplectendae cum primis studiosum fuisse, nosque
clementiam rigori semper antetulisse, censeri nulli dubitamus:
omnem vero conatum eo nos intendisse Serenitatem vestram serie
volumus, ut dudum jam sopitis et compositis ex motibus suscitatis
incommodis quibus Reipublica? tranquillitas exagitatur et pertur-
batur, universa pristino statui reddita fuissent, adhibitis et tentatis
omnibus mediis qua? ad consequendum hoc intentum nostrum
proficua esse cognovissemus: prouti etiam inchoatum a defuncta

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 155
quondam Sacra Caesarea Regiaque Majestate sancta? memoriae per
certos Sacri Romani Imperii Electores, et alios summos principesque
viros, adhibendum interpositionem (etiamnum iteratis scriptionibus
ipsos Principes requirendo) sollicitavimus, quorum quidem operam
speramus salutaria et optima remedia secutura esse. Interim tamen,
si ex laudabili Serenitatis vestra? suscepto conatu et intento per
ablegates suos, nobis modi et media deinceps suggesta fuerint, ut
sine nostra et inclita? domus nostra? offensione admitti et suscipi
queant ea cognoscere, gratum nobis futurum est, neque intermitte-
mus nos aequis conditionibus propositis Serenitatis vestra? sententia
id statui debere, ut manifestum fiat, et animum nostrum ad pacem
sectandam unice affectum et inclinatum fuisse, et simul salutari
non minus ac laudabili vestro studio et desiderio tranquillitatis, quo
flagrat, nos accommodare et respondere contendisse. Porro de
tristi decessus casu sacra? quondam Caesaria? Regia?que Majestatis
Matthia? Romanorum Imperatoris, patris et patruelis nostri obser-
vandissimi ac charissimi, pio maeroris sensu Serenitatem vestram affici
non dubitamus. De caetero, posteaquam iter in Imperii partes per nos
susceptum acceleramus pro temporis moderni ratione (continuationi
itineris attendere necesse habentes) ad aliam aliquam declaratio-
nem nobis accedendi facultas haud dabatur ; ubi vero in Imperiali
civitate Francofurtensi constituimur, atque habita commoditate tem
poris in hoc negotio, ulterius quid per memoratum Serenitatis
vestra? legatum nobis expositum fuerit, eundem pari facilitate audi-
turi sumus, et pro rei conditione nos declarare non omittemus.
Ha?cque erant, qua? penes nuntiatum nostrum praefato legato Sereni
tatis vestra? datum paucis respondenda esse voluimus. Votis ejus
dem ut Deus praepotens aspiret, ipsam diutissime sospitem florentem
tueatur prosperisque rerum successibus beetj summo cum affectu
desideramus. Datum in Archiepiscopali civitate Salisburgo, 17
mensis Julii, anno Domini m.dcxix.
Serenitatis vestra? Frater et
Gonsanguineus amantissimus
Ferdinandus.

156 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. LXXXIII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Salzburg, July & 1619.]
Right Honorable,
Thes ar not yet jf my two last dispatches from Ulme and Munichen have not
received by me. J x
sufficiently expressed how much I have been perplexed with the
uncertainty and contrariety of reportes and advertisements con
cerning King Ferdinand his comming to the Diette at Francfurt,
these will at last make you capable thereof, and satisfy his Ma**
that my lingring on the way proceeded from no slackenes in my
duty toward his commandements, but from my just feare of that
which hath since happened.
I have not I -will presume that my Lord Lisle hath, before these come to
Lord Lisle's your handes, acquainted you at least, if not his Ma*?, with the
arrival. conjecturall advise of King Ferdinand his being at Vienne I recey
ved from the Duke of Bavaria the very morning I departed from
his Court; and with my resolution taken before, and then con
firmed, of directing my journey by water in such a manner that
I might be sure to meete his Ma*? whether he were on the way or
not. With all which care and providence I had notwithstanding
missed him, if I had stayed but that one day lesse at Munichen,
which I spent too much there as I thought. For the very day I
came to Wasserburg, having there made provision of boates to goe
downe the river, a discreete man of the Prince Elector Palatine's
(whom his Highnes hath lent me for a farrier) learned of a postilion
passing thorough that towne that his Ma'y would be at Saltzburg
upon Wednesday the 7th of this moneth, in conformity to the
advertisement I had long before receyved at Ulme. And yet I
know not whether I should have beene diverted a second time
from taking the speede of the river if the Comte de Sollern had not
early the next morning certified me as much by the Duke of

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 157
Bavaria his commandement, and the Bishop of Saltzburg likewise,
to whom I wrat the night before to that purpose. Upon which triple
consent I went on to Saltzburg, arrived there on Munday the 5th,
and, hearing the King riding post with not above 50 persons in his
trayne would be there also the next day by noone, I sent a gentle
man towards him with commandement to let his Ma'y understand
by some chiefe person about him that I attended his Ma'io3 com
ming to Saltzburg out of feare that my going forth to meete him
further would look more like importunity then duty, and humbly
desired to have an audience granted me at his first convenience;
which his Ma*? appoynted at two of the clocke the same day : sent
a Baron to salute me at his first arrivall to the towne, the same man
at the houre to bring me to my audience with coaches borrowed of
the Bishop, and I found his Ma'^ himself, with respect more then
enough, standing at the doore of the chamber where he had
appoynted privatly to heare me. But, before I relate what I sayd,
it will be needefull for me to make a briefe report of what I had
learned by the way of the present state of the affayres in Bohemia,
because I was to dresse his Matioa commandements by that glasse.
First, in generall, I found the voyce of fame constant in all places,
that since Comte Mansfelt his defeate the Bohemians are extremely
declined in their hopes, though not much in their courage; the
Kinges party so much puffed up therupon that their friendes every
where rejoyce already as in the day of their triumphe; and, if there
were no ebbes in the fortune of warre, they had reason. For on
the one side the Comte de Bucquoy hath since his victory put him
selfe out of Budewish into the field, burned above fifty townes and
villages, putting the people, without regard of sexe or age, to the
sword, and on some of them, especially ministers, his soldiers have
exercised more then barbarous cruelty, which he dischargeth wholly
upon the Hungars that came lately to him. It is sayd that he is
now marching towards Prague upon some great attempt, for the per
formance wherof he hath beene lately furnished from Vienna with a
great quantity of munition conducted safely to him by 600 mus-

158 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
katers. And since that, upon the King's removing into these
partes, he hath receyved plenary authority to governe the warre
absolutely according to his wisdome, and the occasion. They say
he hath given the King assurance to reduce that kingdome shortly
unto his obedience. For the administration of the other of Hun
gary, and witholding the adjacent partes from revolting during the
King's absence (which he intendes not above sixe weekes from the
day he sett forward), Archduke Leopold is left at Vienna with
full power and sufficient forces, but diversly reported. On the
other side the Comte de Thurne, of whose being lodged in the
fauxburgs of Vienna I advertised his Ma'r in my dispatch from
Heydelberg, and have since learned that he expected to have beene
lett into that citty by intelligence he presumed therin, being
deluded in that hope by a wile of King Ferdinandes, who called
the suspected burgers to a parley, and in the meanewhile tooke in
500 horse; that Comte is now a good space since retired with
shame enough to Bohemia, and joyned with the Comte de Holach,
who is sayd to be not above three Dutch miles from Bucquoy,
though we heare not of any thing hath passed betweene them.
The Comte of Mansfelt is in Prague, levying new forces, building
two great bulwarkes, and giving such other order for the defence
of that citty that it seemes they apprehend a siege, and are resolved
to die on the place if they should not be able to maintayne it,
rather then put themselves into the enemyes mercy, which hath
beene found so cruell. The Romane Catholiques of that citty are
sayd to be also combined with them by oath in the same resolution;
but the truth of this report, or sincerity of their intentions, I can
not assure.
Supposing, and I doubt too truly, this to be the face of the
affayres in Bohemia, and that the King will certainly be Emperor
in a short space, and be assured of it in shorter, there needed no
long deliberation to resolve me that unles I could make a good step
into the treaty at the first, it was likely afterward to goe slowly on.
And therefore, to loose no time, having craved leave in respect of

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 159
his Ma'ios short stay to speake of busines at my first audience, I
discharged the ceremony of condoleance in few wordes, and came
to declare the substantiall part of my errand, being, as I sayd, to
make offer of the King my master's interposition and of my service
in his name for the mediation of a Peace betweene his Ma'? and his
subjects of Bohemia; whereunto my master had beene earnestly
requested by his deare brother the King of Spayne, and easily
induced by the concurrence of his owne inclination to all workes
of this nature, in which he had beene hitherto evermore happy,
and wished he might be in this above any other, as concerning the
good of all Christendome in generall, of the Empire in speciall,
and more particularly the house of Austria and his Majesty therein,
toward whom the singular affection my master did beare, I sayd,
would be better testifyed by his letters then my wordes, and with
that presented them. His Maf demanded whether they contayned
any busines or were only to give me credence; and when I
answered both, it pleased his Ma^ to read them first, and then
after many professions of mutuall affection to my master, acknow
ledgements of his favor, and enquiry after his late sicknes and
present health, at last comming to the busines he sayd that he
thought his Ma*7 of Great Brittayne was not well informed how
the Bohemians his subjects had behaved themselves toward him.
And when I replyed that the particular knowledge thereof was a
poynt my master had given me in speciall charge to be at first
informed of from his Ma*y, he promised within an houre to send
one of his Counsell to me to that purpose. I instanced that in the
meane time I should be very glad to be assured from his owne
mouth of his good acceptance of my master's loving offer, and to
be directed how I should proceede further in the execution thereof.
Wherunto, finding his Ma*1159 answere more kinde then particular,
I craved pardon for my importunity, and excused it by saying,
that his Ma*? had the reputation of a good and of a gratious
master, that I served such a one too, and wished above all other
things to approve myselfe a good servant to him, which I could

160 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
not doe to my owne conscience unles I gave him a better accompt
of his commandements then I could doe yet upon his Matl0S wordes,
and therefore humbly prayed him to speake cleerely to me. But
his Ma'? herein also referred me to his Counsellor, and promised,
after I had spoken with him, to give me the next day another
audience, assuring me in generall that my master should receyve
full satisfaction, which was all I could obtayne, and so tooke leave
for that time.
The Counsellor came at last, though the Dutch houre were as
long as their mile. His information against the Bohemians con
sisted of a long recital! of his Ma'ies seeking to reduce them by
fayre meanes after the Emperor's death (for at that period he
began), and of their obstinate refusing to returne to his obedience,
which he aggravated at the end with a no shorter rehersall of
their severall practises to draw the Austrians, Moravians, and the
rest of their neighbors his subjects into the same rebellion. All
which he hath promised to sett downe in writing at his first com
ming to Francfurt, and therefore, fearing I may misfeport it, I will
till then fbrbeare to trouble his Ma*r therewith. This ended, he
acknowledged many thankes in his master's name for his Ma'ies
loving offer of his interposition, but sayd that other princes also
had done the like, and that he thought his Ma4? would give me
the same answere he had done to them, which was, that, since
the compounding of these troubles had beene formerly referred to
foure Princes of the Empire, the Elector of Mayence, the Electors
Palatine and Saxe, and the Duke of Baviere, his Ma'? could not
now withdraw it out of their handes without injury. I replyed that
there was a great difference betweene my master's entermise and
that of other princes, because they had offered theirs voluntarily;
but my master, though he came with as good a will as any other
prince, yet he had beene besides intreated therunto by the King
of Spayne, not without his Ma'ios knowledge and consent as there
was reason to conceyve, and that therefore that answere which
might satisfy other princes could be no way contentfull to his Ma'?-

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 161
That whereas he pretended the busines could not be taken out of
the Princes of the Empire their handes without wronging them,
seing it had beene only referred to them, but was never under
taken by them, I could not see why they should be offended ; and
that they would not I durst undertake for two of them, to wit,
the Prince Elector Palatine and Duke of Baviere, whom in my
passage I had found both glad of my master's intervention. All
this could not drive the Counsellor out of his first hold, but, finding
himselfe a little straightened, he enlarged thus much farther, that
his master should see most of those Princes or their deputyes at
Francfurt, and that the Spanish Ambassador would be there also.
That then his M.efi would be able to resolve better what to doe,
in the meane time prayed me to rest assured that my master should
have all satisfaction. I replyed this delay would give him little,
and to the end my master might not take it to imply a negative,
I desired to know upon what conditions his Ma'y would be pleased
to agree to a cessation of armes (that being the first step to a treaty
of peace), that I might against the meeting at Francfurt dispose
the Bohemians to accept of them. At this he was startled, rubbed
his fingers, sayd it was a new proposition, and now out of all
reason and season, his Ma'y having the Bohemians as it were in his
power; but at last upon my urging that it seemed then his master
would hearken to no peace but when he had ncede of it, he fell
at last to this excuse, that his Ma'^ had no counsell about him here
to advise of a matter of that importance. But to putt him by this
shift too, I offered, if his Ma'r would command me, to go post to
the Bohemians, and to bring from them the most moderate
demandes I could, upon promise that his Ma'y would at my
coming to Francfurt enter into a treaty. But I could get no more
of the Counsellor but this, that he would make a faythfull relation
to his master of my propositions, and that I should the next day
understand his Ma'9 pleasure therein from his owne mouth.
Accordingly yesterday afternoone, immediately before his Ma'ies
departure, I was admitted to a second audience. At the which
CAMD. soe. y

162 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
I pressed his Ma'? to the same effect I had done his Counsellor,
by all the niew arguments a nightes meditation could suggest to
me, taking notice at the beginning, from his Counsellor's informa
tion, of his Ma'109 former clemency and patience in persevering to
seeke to win his subjects by all the wayes of sweetenes notwith
standing their insolent neglect of him. But I sayd that those
motions might have beene then misunderstood by them, and be
still misinterpreted by others, to have proceeded at that time from
his want of power to bring them under his subjection by the way
of force ; that it would therefore make much for the manifestation
of his goodnes, for the unfayned obliging of his people's heartes,
and for the eternall glory of his name, if now, when God had
given him the better of the field in the eyes of all the world, he
would be pleased notwithstanding to trace over once agayne those
his owne royall steppes of being first in seeking to come to a recon
cilement, or if his subjects deserved that no longer, at - the least
to be willing to have their peace sought of him by my master's
intercession, who out of the common interest which all Kings have
in the honor and safety each of other, and out of his personall
affection to his Ma1?, would not so much as wishe the making of
a peace upon other termes then might be honorable for him to
grant, and had required me to declare so much unto his Ma'J.
I pressed him yet further by taking notice of the opinion generally
and indubitably conceyved that his Ma*? would be chosen Emperor,
touching on the common place of all wise Princes' affectation to
give demonstrations of their clemency at their entrance, and in
sisting more particularly upon the ill effects which might follow in
the Empire upon the continuance of a warre begun upon the
Breach of Priviledges. Concluding in the end that, since the
fortune of warre is al wayes aguish, and the event oftentimes not
answerable to the best grounded hope, his Ma'y should not be ill
advised to fixe the wheele while it standes in his favor, especially
seeing a higher elevation of his victory would in the end turne
but to his losse and repentance for having desolated and impover-

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 163
ished the kingdome wherof he is already invested, and by the
same meanes weakened and endangered the Empire wherof he
might, without vanity, be in expectation.
But neither my reasons nor instance could move his Majesty one
hayres breadth out of the circle wherein it seemes both he and his
Counsellor were charmed to keepe, which is a generall assurance
that at Francfurt, when the Spanish Ambassador and the Princes
nominated to be arbitrators shall meete, his Ma'? will harken further
to our Master's intervention and then give him satisfaction. But
what the meaning of that harkening and satisfaction is, they will
not yet declare otherwise then negatively that they doe not thereby
intend to oblige his Ma'y to enter into a treaty, nor to lay downe
armes what conditions soever may be proposed, although they doe not
absolutely deny it neither. And with this warines I thinke his Ma'?
will finde the inclosed from this King precisely penned. Wherof it
pleased the Counsellor to make the Kinges Secretary shew me the
rude draft yesterday morning, to the end that it might be altered,
as he sayd, if I did not finde it would be satisfactory to his Ma'y.
And then at my intreaty was the clause of remitting me to Franc
furt inserted, which my secretary who served me for interpreter de
livered in these words, promptissimi erimus de pace conciliandd
tractatum inire, which the Counsellor would not suffer to goe so,
but to my face dictated thus to the Secretary, non denegabimus au-
rem prehere, or some such other waterish phrase as I presume standes
in the letter. For, the King giving me the letter out of his owne
hand, his secretary not being by, I could not aske a copy of it.
Sir, you see how large and particular an accompt I have taken
paynes to give you, not to the matter only, but of the very wordes,
and almost syllables of all that passed in my negotiation here.
Which though it be both an unusuall and simple manner of rela
tion, yet I have not been ashamed to use it of purpose, to the end
that his Ma'y may by the same light I have upon the place judge of
a phancy wherewith both sleeping ajid waking I am troubled,
which I doe humbly submitt to his Matios all-discerning wisedome,

164 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
praying God he may both censure and finde it but an idle dreme.
It is that if this King (whom I conceyve, according to the reputation
held of him in the world, to be of a quiet and mild disposition,) were
left to the liberty of his owne nature and counsells, I should nothing
doubt to bring his Ma'? of from this Christian attempt with glory
and contentment. But, finding him as I thinke I doe plainly in all
his owne and his counsellors' discourse teachered a by some higher
directions (whether it be of Rome or Spayne or both in one), I am
very anxious of the issue, and suspitious that this putting me over to
Francfort is an artifice to protract time till the Comte de Buquoy
hath executed his dessein and the King is chosen Emperor, and that
then they will either amuse me with an endles treaty, or post me
over agayne to Vienne, or at the best quite reject his Mafiea inter
cession, which I doe the rather apprehend, because I understand
the Comte d'Oniat is immediately after the Election to goe away
into Spayne. If this be but a jealous imagination of mine, I trust
his Ma'y will judge it to arise from the fervency of my love, and
zele of his honor, and pardon me if against all adventures I humbly
desire to be instructed in three poyntes by the returne of this gen
tleman, of whom I have made choyce because there hath beene good
experience of his diligence.
1. First, If I can neither obtayne truce nor treaty at Francfurt,
whether my gracious Master will thinke it for his honor that I wayte
on further on his Ma'?. If not wait, whether I shall congratulate his
Election. If I shall congratulat I desire to be furnished with a
letter against the time. If not, to know in what maner and lan
guage I shall take leave.
2. Secondly, whether his Ma'y will admitt of any partner in the
honor of the treaty. Which I desire to know because your brother
Calvert in one of his letters while I was yet in England gave me an
inkling that the French King is likely to send an Ambassador to
the Election, which was confirmed to me at Brussells, but I have
since heard no more of it.
a The word " tutored " has been written above this.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 165
3. Lastly, whether his Ma'J will at all, and in what manner he
will, condiscend to be joyned with the Princes of the Empire in the
treaty. I shall not rest til I understand his Ma1109 pleasure herein by you.
In the meane time, that I may oaiitt nothing in my power, I pur
pose to dispatche one of my servants who is well known to the best
of the Bohemians, and knows the countrey, with commission to let
them understand what hath beene the effect of my negotiation here;
and an intreaty that they will send Deputyes to Francfurt furnished
with their apology to the King's accusation, with their recrimina
tion of his breache of their priviledges, and with such modest condi
tions of peace as may be fitt for their friends to presse in their be- scmcet the
halfe. I intend not to send the King's letter by this messenger, but ^mf3,our
either to deliver it to their Deputyes at Francfurt, or els deferre it letters to the
till my owne going to Prague, if I finde I may be likely to have eml n "
occasion. Sir, the bearer can tell you in what hast this was written, to the
end that if it be possible he might be with his Ma'? before the pro-
gresse begin, and with me agayne before the Election is ended.
Upon which reason it may please you to excuse both to his Ma1? and
your selfe all the markes of hast you have observed in. it; and so
with my incessant prayers I rest,
Your most affectionate faythfull friende
and humble servant,
Doncaster.
Saltzburg, 9th July 1619.

166 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
No. LXXXIV.
CREDENTIALS GIVEN BY VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO WILLIAM
NORREYS.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Salzburg, [?] July & [?] 1619.]
Quum nonnulla haberem qua?, dum ex mandato Serenissimi
Magna? Britannia? Regis Domini mei clementissimi ad nobilissimos
regni Bohemici ordines ipse possim accedere, interea cum splendi-
dissimis dominationibus suis communicata cuperem, nee satis scirem
ad quern unum pra?ter ceteros literas darem, ad universos vero scri-
bere nee mea? modestia? nee e re fortasse ipsorum esse ducerem, pro
optimo visum est generoso huic Gulielmo Norre'ys familiari meo
experta? fidei et industria? qua? vellem in mandatis dare. Cui ut
eandem fidei qua? mihi ipsi pra?senti deberetur universi singulique
praebere velint valde rogat
Nobilissimarum splendidissimarumque dominationum tuarum
humillimus et studiossimus servus,
Doncaster.

No. LXXXV.

INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN BY VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO WILLIAM
NORREYS.
[State Papers. Germany.]
Memoriall for Mr. Norry. [Salzburg, July [$, ?] 1619.J
To let them understand the effect of my Lord his negotiations
with King Ferdinand, and therupon to intreate them to send
Deputies to Francfurt furnished with sufficient autority to treate, and
instructed : 1 , with their apology to King Ferdinand his accusation
consisting of their refusall to hearken to a peace upon his often
letters and large offers : of their soliciting their neighbors his sub
jects to rebellion. 2dly, with a full information of such matter as

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 167
they are able to recriminate touching the breach of their priviledges
or other reasons for their taking and continuing of armes. 3dly, with
such modest conditions for the making of a peace as may render the
King inexcusable if he refuse to grant them.

No. LXXXVI.
SIR ISAAC WAKE TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Savoy.] [Turin, July J|, 1619.]
Right Honorable.
Since my last to your honour of the Af July, I have receaved a
dispatch from the Prince Palatine, the copy whereof I send here in
closed, that you maye see thereby how ernestly he hath required
mee to employ my credit with the Duke of Savoy, and to obtayne
his effectual mediation with the Venetians, for the procuring such
companies of Reisters as are at this present in Lombardy at the
service of the State of Venice to be sent into Germany for the assis
tance of the Princes of the Union.
These Commissions are sumwhat scrupulous to a minister who
doth not love excedere fines mandati, and, although at this present I
have indevored to give the Elector Palatine content, in regard that
he doth write in the name of the Union of which bodye his Ma'io is
the head, yet hereafter both he and all the rest shall pardon mee if
I do not obey theyr commandments, unlesse his Ma'f do give mee a
general order to execute such commissions as I shall receave from
them. It is likely that they will have recounse unto mee very often
for these services which they may require at my hands, considering
that his Matio hath no other minister on this side the mountaines, and
therefore it wilbe necessary that your honour do let me know how
farr I may imploy myselfe to serve them, because until I heare from

168 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
you againe I wilnot adventure to execute theyr orders without first
knowing his Matlos pleasure.
I must confesse I was not to trouble myselfe much in perswading
the Duke of Savoy to imbrace this motion, for I did find him most
ambitiously reddy to lay hould of any occasion wherein he might
gratifie the Prince Palatine, and those other Princes of the Union,
and that I might be a witnes of the reality of his proceedings he did
send for the Venetian Ambassador and mee togeatherto audience, and,
after having acquainted the Ambassador with the state of the buisines
in my presence, he did earnestly desyre him to represent unto his
masters the interest they had in the conservation of the publique
liberty, the advantage that would redound unto their state by fo
menting a warre on the other side the mountaines against their pro
fessed enimye, and keeping the fyer from theyr owne howse ; the
meanes those Princes had to requite such a kindnes when any occa
sion should be presented unto them ; the improbability that there
was of being troubled with anye innovation in Lombardy, consider
ing the modest disposition of the Duke of Feria, and the smal forces
that remaine on foot in the State of Milan, the best part of which
residue the Spaniards do pretend likewise to transport else where.
After the allegation of which reasons he did interpose his parti
cular ernest request to have those Princes gratified for his sake, and
did not onely offer to put the obligation of this -favour to his owne
account, but to oblige himselfe for the security of the Venetians
during the absence of these troupes, and to furnish them within the
space of 15 dayes with as much and as good cavalerie, if any occa
sion should require.
When the Duke of Savoy had passed this effectual office with the
Ambassador of Venice he did ernestly require mee to make the like
motion as from my selfe unto the sayde Ambassador, alleaging that
the sight of my proposition would cleare a great doubt which some
of those suspitious senators might conceave of his desyring those
troupes in the name of the Princes of Germany for the better com-

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 169
passing some private designe of his owne in those parts, which the
Venetians do not seeme much to favor.
I would willingly have excused my selfe, if with any honest cou-
lours I could, have refused to make the same motion in my owne person
which I had desyred the Duke of Savoy to make, and therefore to
satisfie him therein ; and, to let it appeare to the Prince Palatine that
I have not been wanting to employ my selfe as farre as I was able to
procure him contentment, I have by waye of letter to the Venetian
Ambassador expressed the desire of the Princes of the Union with
out once spending the name of his Ma'io, as by the copie here en
closed your Honour may be pleased to see.
I may not omit to let your Honour know that the Duke of Savoy
did unto mee in private shewe himselfe so forward to gratifie the
Princes of Germany in this lawful and honest request, that he did
offer to paye this cavallerie out of his owne purse, in case the Vene
tians should excuse themselfes uppon the great charge they are at
in mainetayning their fleete at sea against the Duke of Ossuna;
and to prevent the objection of their declaring themselfes against
the Spaniards or the howse of Austria, he hath offered likewise that
if they wil make a shew of dismissing those troupes, he wil inrole
them as for his service, and bestowe them uppon mee, as he did the
regiment of the Count of Mansfelt, that I may send them to the Prince
Palatine, to bee employed where he shall thinke fitt for his owne or
for the publique service. As soone as wee shal have an answere from
Venice, which cannot bee yet these ten or fiveteene dayes, your
Honour shalbe advertised with all speed of the successe of this nego
tiation, which I feare wil not bee to the satisfaction of the Princes of
Germany. In my last I did advise your Honour of a great alarme all our
neighbors had taken uppon the occasion of a general muster which
the Duke of Savoy had summoned to bee made of all the trayned
souldiers on this side the hills, but he hath now suspended his pro
ceeding therein for a time, and sent all the companies of horse and
foot to their severall quarters.
CAMD. SOC. Z

170 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
This muster was intended principally (as I formerly advertised^
to mortifie the violent humor of some factious persons in Mondovi
who did countenance the banditi in those parts in all their outra-
gious excesses, and would not suffer the Justice to proceede against
them. But the wiser sort have uppon better advise sent the Bishop
of that cittie with commission to cast himselfe at the feete of the
Duke of Savoy, and to demaund pardon for the folly of those
wilful persons whose obstinacye had justly drawne the displeasure
and indignation of this Prince against the whole citty ; uppon
which humiliation and promise of future submitting themselfes in
obedience unto the lawes of the country and the pleasure of the
Duke, their further persecution hath beene deferred, the Prince
Cardinal having made himselfe a pledge and caution for theire
modest and sober behavior hereafter.
Signor Scaramuzza Visconti, who came from Milan hither (as,
hath been advertised) to informe the Duke of Feria aright of the
intentions of the Duke of Savoy in that intended muster, having
receaved very good assurance from this Prince that he had no
purpose to make anie innovation, did immediately after his first
audience dispatch a courrier to Milan, and uppon the returne of
his messager, who arived here uppon i| of this month, being
admitted to his second and last audience, he did formally, in the
name of the King of Spaine, demande passage thorough Piedmont
and Savoy for 2500 men which the Governor of Milan had
order to send out of the State of Milan into the Lowe Countries.
The Duke of Savoy, finding himselfe surprised with so unex
pected a motion, was somewhat troubled howe to make a satisfac-
torie answere thereunto. For he could not with honesty graunt
it for feere it might prejudice his frends on the other side of the
hills: whereuppon, after a ceremonious and complimental declara
tion of his readines to gratifie the King of Spaine and his Ministers
in any thing that they might require at his hands, he tould the
Ambassador that he needed not doubt of his realty in observing
such capitulations as were stipulated betwixt the King of Spaine

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 171
and him, but that he did desire to know the precise number of
these troupes that were to passe through his State, the time when
they did intend to march, and the order which they would observe
in their passage, and that before they should depart out of the
State of Milan he might have time sufficient to give warning
thereof unto such others of his frends and allyes as have terry to-
ryes confining with his State, as namely, the French King, the
State of Berne, and the citty of Geneva: with this answere the
Ambassador is departed to Milan, and wee expect dayly to heare
from him againe, and to receave a second summons for the
passage of these souldiers.
The Duke of Savoy would willingly perswade himselfe that this
office hath been passed per modum tentationis, and the Duke of
Feria doth not really intend the transportation of these troupes,
but that his purpose was to make trial whether this Prince would
refuse the passage in case the King of Spaine should have occasion
to require it, that so uppon his denial the Spaniards might take
unto themselfes a colour of quarreling with him for breaking the
covenantes unto which he was bound, or uppon his granting the pas-
sidge they might calumniate him to the Princes of Germany as
partial against them, and so weaken that good correspondence
which is betwixt him and those princes at this present. He doth
ground this conjecture uppon two contrarieties which this motion
doth seeme to include, whereof the first is that it cannot stand
with reason that the Spaniards should send any forces out of the
State of Milan at this time when they designe to drawe downe
the most part of the army of Naples into Lombardie, as he is
advertised that they intend to do ; the second is that there cannot
bee any appearance of their intending to send these forces into
the Lowe Countryes, considering that they do treat the proroga
tion or perpetuation of that truce or peace.
But I do doubt for my part that they do intend in good earnest
to transport a good strength of souldiers to the other side of the
mountaines, and that their purpose is to make these forces coun-

172 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
tenance and make way for the incorronation of Ferdinand at
Francfort, in case the Protestant Princes should make any difficulty
to accept him in the Electoral College before the troubles of
Bohemia bee accommodated. For it is confidently advertised that
he is resolved to passe to Francfort, and to take to himselfe the
Imperial Crowne in virtu of his owne voice and the suffrages of
the Ecclesiasticall Electors, wherein if he should meete with any
contestation it would be hard for him to carry the businesse a
haulte lutte unlesse he have an army neere ; and, because it is not
likely that he will weaken his army in Bohemia by causing any
of those troupes to march so farr backwards, nor that the Archduke
will suffer the army that he doth mainetaine about Wesel to passe
so farr upp into Germany, it may be, with probability enough,
concluded that these forces, which are idle in the State of Milan,
may be imployed to assure his corronation.
I have dispatched a gentleman in great dilligence to Heidelberg
expresly to warne the Prince Palatine of this designe, and I pre
sume his Highness wil not be wanting to send this dispatch with
all speed to your Honour. For if the Governour of Milan do
presse this motion againe, I shalbe able to prevaile with the Duke
of Savoy so farr as to procure him to suspend his definitive answere
fifteen dayes, and when the troupes shal beginn to march they
cannot traverse Piedmont and Savoy in lesse then twenty dayes ; so
that, if I can understand his Ma*109 pleasure within the space of a
month, it wilbe possible to make a staye of this army in case his
Ma'i0 shall require it. The Duke of Savoy of himselfe is willing
enough to hinder theyr passage if he might be sure of a good
support, but the Venetians wilnot assist him therein, considering
that they desire nothing more than to have Lombary discharged
of the souldiers that remayne, and of himselfe he hath not the
meanes to oppose himselfe against the King of Spaine, neither wil
reason of state permit him to draw a new warre uppon himselfe
to pleasure other Princes unto whome he hath no manner of
obligation.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 173
If, therefore, the Princes of Germany and the States of the
United Provinces do doubt that these forces may turne to their
prejudice, it wilbe necessarie for them to declare themselves first,
and when they shal desire this Prince to assist them they must
supplye him with meanes that may inable him so to do ; for,
although his will be very good, yet he hath not power sufficient
to resist the Spaniards if they should uppon this occasion set uppon
him anewe.
So humblye desyring your Honour to let me know his Ma'io9
^pleasure in sufficient time, I take leave, and rest
Your Honour's most faithfully to command, Isaac Wake.3
Turin, Af of July, 1619. Received by
Quester this
[Indorsed in Naunton s hand].— 18 Julii, 1619, Sir Isaac Wake 23ofAusu3t-
to mee; sent by the way of Heidelberg, but delayed tyll this 23. wayof Ant-
of the same, a full weeke, and came after his last packet of the wel'P-
26, which I sent you upon Sunday was a sevenight.
It seemes this packet stayd with the Prince Palatin where he is.
It stayd allmost a weeke at Calis for a wind.
The Prince Palatine's letter to him.
His proposition to the Venetian Ambassador.
• On the 26th of July Wake wrote again to Naunton the letter referred to in the
indorsement. He says that it is almost a fortnight since the return of the Duke of Feria's
Ambassador to Milan, and that "this letting runne so many dayes without further
pressing that motion which Signor Visconti at his beeing here did sett on foot with
extraordinary heate, doth confirme the Duke of Savoy in his former opinion that the
Governor of Milan did never really intend any such thing." Wake proceeds, however,
to say that he doubts this, as he hears " that in the State of Milan they do levye men
apace, and that the last weeke there hath been remitted thither from Genoa the sum of
150m crownes."

174 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
NO. LXXXVII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Hanaw, Jul? 2i> 1619.]
L August 3, J
Right Honorable,
Though for no other cause, yet for this, that you may give his
Ma'y an auditt of the time I have spent since Mr. Peter Killigrewes
dispatche, I cannot suffer this ordinary to goe without my letters.
It cost me seven dayes, at twelve houres travelling the day, to
reach from Saltzburg to Norimberg. There understanding that
I was gotten .before King Ferdinand and the Spanish Ambassador,
(who, in respect of the strange unseasonable raynes we had here
without intermission three weekes together, tooke more liberty
then I durst to make easy journeys), I resolved to send the greatest
part of my trayne directly to Hanaw, where, by the Prince Elector
Palatine's favor and Monsieur de Plessen his care, I am well lodged
during the time of the election. My selfe with the Lordes and
Knightes only that honor me with their company went a dayes
journey about by Heydelberg, that I might acquaint that Prince
with the answere King Ferdinand had given me, and receyve his
Highnes' commandements before my going to Francfurt.
The Marquis of Ansbach lay now just in my way, whom I
therefore thought it my duty to visit one night for the delivery of
Anspach. his Majesties letters and receyving.his Highnes' advise. He enter
tayned me very princely, and, unles I would ungratefully conceale
truth, I must beare record that he is extreamly his Ma*109 servant,
and well worth the cherishing, being a brave, noble, active prince,
as the Spanish regiments would have felt in their passage from
Archduke Albert to King Ferdinand, if all the Union had beene
of his spirit.
And now that I have done him right, 1. may not wrong the
Archbyshop of Wirtzberg by passing over in silence the noble
entertaynment he had provided to have given me, not knowing of

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 175
my diversion till the day before: which I have the more reason
to marke and mention because it is the first respect I have found
from any ecclesiasticall person since I came into this country.
Betweene Ansbach and Heydelberg I did by meere chance meete
your letters of the 28th of June, and for my owne future discharge
upon this warrant I am bound now to tell you that the hast you
used in their dispatche hath made you forget to signe them, as
well as I did to date those they answere ; I was not so glad at This seemes to
first of this recontre, as I was sorry afterwards when I saw it dupHcattflsent
would put me to a necessity of equivocating at Heydelberg in after °y tne or-
\ T1 . J , x ' o t> • ? xi dinarie, and that
saying that 1 had as yet receyved no answer to the rnnces ot tne which I sent
Union their letters. For that which you give me I take to be fira'by Cooke
. . .. (which I am
for my privat information and instruction, since you doe not sure I signed)
require me to represent it to their Highnesses or any of them, as ™^_bemlsca"
not imagining it would have found me in so fitt a place. And
though you had done so, yet I know not whether I should not This is particu-
have taken the boldnes to conceale it till a more proper time. For yf t^thembyYis
King Ferdinand can be perswaded now at Francfurt to yield to a ces- ^,8s°™h he
sation of armes and treaty in respect to our master's entermise, his wrot unto those
Ma1? will have meanes to give the Princes of the Union a more *™ ^™* l
contenting answere, and then I will represent unto them those Mr. Williams.
exceptions his Ma'? taketh to their demande, and rectify their
understanding of the termes of the league if they doe mistake it.
And if no peace can be gotten of King Ferdinand, then, seeing his
Ma'? persisteth in his resolution to ayde those of his owne profes
sion, and hath by you renewed my commission to declare as much,
his Ma'y may then kill two birdes with one bolt, and lay a double
obligation on the Princes of the Union by sending assistance to the
the Bohemians thorough their handes. So that in both cases I thinke
it best to suppresse the answere you have made'me for a time. Besides ^ ^ ^ ^
that under correction, I thinke that the Princes may justly, and I am the copie9 J his
sure'they doe, expect his Ma"09 resolution to be signified in a letter im- ^j"
mediatelyto themselves. Wherein I desire, and most earnestly intreate t^tJnton were^
your care.that there maybe no notice taken of anythoughtes they may ^J^p by Mr!
Killigrew.

176 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
have had to proceede further then to their owne defence ; because
they have neither expressed more in their letters, nor meant, unles
they were strongly invited by manifest occasion, which is all I did
intimate in my letters to his Ma'?, and therefore the justice of
their request cannot be avoyded upon that poynt. The Prince
Elector Palatine and his brother, Prince Lodowick, are already
gone to the army the 19th of this moneth, and had done the day
before but for my comming to Heydelberg ; where I found the same
Ambassador of King Ferdinandes who neglected to visit me at
Brusselles, and withall that change of place hath not changed his
manners, if that be the cause of his bestise toward me. I call him
still Ambassador for his Ma*?, or I have beene much misinformed
of the quality of his employment at Brusselles, and, his brother
being a Prince, advanced to that dignity by the Emperor Rudolphe
for changing his religion, I am almost confident I am in the
right, but would not have troubled his Ma'? with him agayne if
I could have escaped it. The Secretary of Comte d'Oniat had
beene also at Heydelberg a few dayes before, and delivered letters
from the King of Spayne. The errand of them both was to intreate
that Prince to be present at the Electoral! Diett in person, which
his Highnes excused upon the necessity of his going to secure the
Upper Palatinate, and hath therefore only sent his Ambassadors,
as the Duke of Saxony and the Marquis of Brandeburg have done
likewise. What hath passed at the Diett, or rather the reason why
I have received nothing hath yet passed, I have prayed Monsieur de Plessen (who
nothing from d[r\ me ^he favor to come yesterday to informe me) to make a
M. de Plessen '
yet. I suppose relation from himselfe, because it would have come to you with
he writes to Mr. losge through my hand.
T. Murrey. ci
On Sunday the 18th of this moneth, being the day that King
Ferdinand entered into Francfurt, there happened to be a little
tumult in that citty, which, because it may be growne greater by
the way, I hold it my duty to acquaint you with. Some forty of
the Archbishop of Mayence his servants, and as many of the Arch
bishop of Cologne's, well mounted, pretending to goe forth out of

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 177
the towne, whether to meete and conduct the Kinge in, or upon
what other occasion soever (for of divers reported that is the most pro
bable), made a stande in the porte in such a fashion as gave suspi-
tion that they intended to force the guard. Wherupon being com
manded by the souldiers to retire, and refusing to obey, they came
to a contestation of wordes, and one of the Bishop of Cologne his
men speaking rougher then his fellowes, and, as many say,
offering to discharge his pistoll, was stroken into the belly with a
partisan, and dyed upon the place; the rest were conducted to
their lodgings by the soldiers, and threatened at every halte. The
Bishoppes themselves were in a bodily feare, but there was no
more harme done. The King came in peaceably, with as little shew
of royalty as he still appeares in there ; yet is he sure to be
Emperor, for, though the Infanta of Brusselles be ambitious to
vayle her selfe with' the Imperiall Crowne against her widowhood,
and hath wrought so farre upon the Archduke that he would not
refuse it if he were elected (wherof they say there is assurance), yet
that house will not be divided against it selfe.
The Spanish Ambassador came hither* upon the 23th of this
moneth, three dayes after me. He demanded by a currier to have
beene admitted into the citty, but, being refused, is lodged by the
Bishop of Mayence about a Dutch mile off. I sent to him yesterday,
to-morrow am to visit him, and shall then presse him home to use
the authority I know his master hath over King Ferdinand. As
soone as I can see day thorough this adjournment I will spedily
advertise his Ma'^ by an expresse.
From the fielde, all the newes wee heare is that the armyes are
both ill payd, and full of sicknes. The Comte of Buquoy hath of
late made an inrode into Austria, and committed as much outrage
there as he had before in Bohemia. If the 700 Hungars were only
guilty of the cruelty he charged on them, the hand of vengeance
hath already overtaken them ; for, being called home, the Comte
of Bucquoy, whether suspecting they would revolt or for what other
cause is not knowne, sett upon them as they were marching away,
CAMD-. SOC. 2 A

178 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
and hath killed to the number of 300 of them. The Comte of Dam-
piere hath beene also troubled with the mutining of his Hungars,
wherupon after wordes proceeding to strike one of their commanders
he had a blow with a Hungarian masse returned him, which they
I send you the say hath well nigh broken his backe.
mmute of what rpj^g Bohemians are here assured to be in better state then was
I wrote
according to my figured unto me in the partes from whence I am come. The gen-
fromUhis°Matie tleman I sent to them is not yet returned. They have sent an ill
HisMato letters choyce of Ambassadors to Francfurt to protest against King Ferdi-
may beare date . , ..... -,-. . . ' ... .
since the Era- nand, and mamtayne their priviieges. But it is yet m dispute whe-
perordied, but tker tk gkav| -be Emitted or not, as 1 assure ray selfe Monsr de
yet not since the J •>
notice of it Plessen hath particularly related.
him- or°the date ^he defence you furnish me withall for the convenience of his
may be altered MatI0S letters to them cannot be mayntayned, because they beare
blankes. Sure I date after the Emperor's death ; and therefore if you thinke fitt it
am I have kept may p]ease vow t0 propound it once agayne to his Matios considera-
my instruction. .
Mr. Read there tion.
Ws^opfeTfAe ^ir Isak Wake hath let me understand of the Duke of Savoy his
Latin letter if refusall to reenforce Count Mansfelt's regiments unles he be required
it. by the Kings Ma'10, and as a vigilant and a carefull minister hath
Of this pomt offered, if I found it necessary for the publique service, to endeavor
I have written ' .
his Ma'» own to passe that office upon my letter. But I dare not presume to give
james10Wakeir n^m any su°k "warrant, and thinke the King our master himself can
which I received not yet resolve what answere to make till the owne time.
Theobaides. I have acquainted her Highnes with the retardment of his Ma"09
resolution concerning my servant Nethersole. She protesteth that
if his Ma'^ have seene any such letter of her writing in favor of Mr.
Elfiston it is forged, and hath commanded me to pray you to solicit
his Ma*y for the searching out of that practice, as concerning both
her honor and service. Let me adde my owne earnest request that
you would doe it speedily, for the reason I have already given his
Ma'y and you.
I send you here inclosed the Duke of Saxony his letter to me,
that his Ma'y may see his Highnes is well satisfyed with my absence;

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 179
having otherwise little reason to bragg of the honor he hath therein
done me, writing himselfe, and to me, in the same stile he would
have done to his meanest vassall, which for the person I sustayne I
doe a little resent. Sir, I see I cannot part with you ; but to deliver
you of my importunity, after I have made my dew prayer for his
Ma**, I will take leave for this time, and rest ever
Your most affectionate and faythfull friend and servant,
Doncaster.
Hanaw, 24th July, 1619.

No. LXXXVIII.

THE BARON MEGGAU TO VISCOUNT DONCASTER.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Francfort, July2f, 1619.]
Aug. 5
ECCELLm0 SlG1.
Subito che mi capito la gratissima di V- E. feci l'effetto ch'ella mi
commandava con la M'a del Re mio Signor, la quale sicome ha gra-
dita sommamente la buona volonta di V. E. cosi ha resoluto di
mandare un suo cavaliero della cammera ad abboccarse seco. E
poiche dal dette Signor sentira ella tutte quelle occorre di piu, resto
de soggiongere altro con questa, salvo che per quelle tocca la scnt-
turaa che V. E. desidera, quella sta ponendose assieme, e tbsto che
sia compita se le mandera, Fra tanto, con baciar a V. E. le mano, le
bramo dal Cielo compita felicita.
De V. S. Eccell. Humeliss. et aff110
Leonardo Elfrido B. de Meggau.
De Francfortt, le 5 Ag°. 1619. » No. XCI.

180 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS

Translation.
As soon as I received your Excellency's letter, I made application,
according to your request, to His Majesty the King my master. He
accepted with great pleasure the assurances of your Excellency's good
will, and has resolved to send one of the gentlemen of his chamber to treat
with you. As you will hear from him every thing that remains to be
said, I have only to add that the writing for which your Excellency asks
is being put together, and that it will be sent to you as soon as it is
finished. In the meanwhile, kissing your Excellency's hands, I pray
heaven to grant you perfect felicity.
Your Excellency's most humble and affectionate
Leonhaed Helfried Baron or Meggau.
Francfort, Aug. 5, 1619.

No. LXXXIX.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO THE COUNT OF ONATE.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Hanau, July 31' ? 1619.]
August 10,
Monsieur,
Vostre Excellence me pardonnera s'il luy plaist si je vous impor
tune par ce mot de lettre de me faire scavoir par ce porteur si vous
aves retire du Roy Ferdinand la resolution de sa Ma'0 touchant la
proposition que je vous feis lors que j'eu l'honneur de vous voir chez
vous, ayant trouve un si grand contentement en vostre entretien qu'il
me faict le desirer avec impatience, estant d'ailleurs il me semble a
blasmer de laisser passer tant de temps sans faire rien pour le service
de sa Ma'° Catholique, et pour me descharger des commandemens de
mon Maistre. Je m'en iray en poste vous trouver demain ou apres
demain selon que vous me donneres l'assignation, et vous tesmoigne-

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 181
ray que je suis, Monsr, de vostre Excellence tres humble et tres affec-
tionn£ serviteur.
De Hanaw le dernier
d'Aout,a 1619.

No. XC.
ANSWER GIVEN TO VISCOUNT DONCASTER BY BARON TRAUTMANNS-
DORF ON BEHALF OF FERDINAND II. KING OF HUNGARY, &c.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Frankfort, August -^, 1619.]
Serenissimus Hungaria? et Bohemia? Rex, Dominus meus cle-
mentissimus, quemadmodum Serenissimi Magna? Britannia? Regis
optimam et propensissimam in concilianda pace Bohemica volunta-
tem grato animo interpretatur, ita pra?clarum istud studium quod
Regia? illius bonitati et prudentia? adscribit, modis omnibus et qua-
cunque se offerente occasione vicissim promereri non intermittet.
Etsi vero Majestas sua Regi discussionem praetensorum gravami-
num Bohemicorum et eorum qua? inde subsecuta sunt jampridem
quatuor Principum interpositorum arbitrio permiserit, unde nequa-
quam sibi abscedendum judicat, nihilominus tamen (citraprejudicium
verbi illius Regii jam dati) oblatum a Serenissimo Rege Magna? Bri
tannia? interpositionis studium sincera ilia voluntate et candore quo
ipsi offertur libentissime acceptat, sua ex parte curatura uti negotium
hoc ita dirigatur, quo debitus interpositionis tractatui locus detur,
atque eidem Serenissimo Regi totique mundo quanti pacem et tran-
quillitatem publicam a?stimet exinde constare possit.
Cum vero hactenus Serenissimo Regi meo nulla per Bohemos pacis
conditiones sint oblata?, exercitus utrinque .validus et numerosus in
Regnum Bohemise penetraverit, qui indies etiam augeatur, adeoque
* This is an evident mistake. Doncaster was not at Hanau on ugUS ' — -' and Fer-
September 10,
dinand had become Emperor. The letter must be the one referred to in the despatch of
August T7,.

182 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
nullam pads securitatem Serenissimus Rex meus habeat, ipsimet
Domino oratori pro singulari prudentia sua perpendendum-relinquit,
quo pacto Majestas sua in propositam armorum suspensionem pro
hac vice condescendere queat.
* Ca?teroquin habet Majestas sua Regia causas gravissimas, habet
media per Dei gratiam sufficientia quibus subditorum suorum Bohe-
morum rebellionem debita in auctores poena statuta compescat, re-
spectu tamen interpositionis Serenissimi Regis Magnge Britannia? et
pro singulari dementia Augusta? Domui Austriaca? innata pacem
Regno Bohemia? justis et rationi consentaneis conditionibus restituere
parata est, eumque in finem non gravatim intelligat qua? a Domino
oratore Serenissimi Magna? Britannia? Regis circa eandem ipsi pro-
ponentur idque cum interventione Domini oratoris Hispanici. Pos-
tulat enim, pra?ter singularem fiduciam sanguinis et necessitudinis
vinculum quo Serenissimo Regi Hispaniarum Catholico Serenissimus
Rex meus conjunctus est, ut omnia qua? ad ejusdem domus conserva-
tionem pertinent cum arnica et sincera illius interventione tractentur.

No. XCI.
MEMOIR DELIVERED TO VISCOUNT DONCASTER ON BEHALF .OF
FERDINAND II. KING OF HUNGARY, &c.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Received August $, 1619.]
Compendiosa narratio eorum qua? ab obitu gloriosissimi Impe-
ratoris Matthia? inter Serenissimum Regem Ferdinandum 2m in
Regno Boemia? legitimum successorem et rebellantes ibidem subditos
acciderunt.

Posteaquam Divina? voluntati invictissimum ac gloriosissimum
Principem, Regem et Imperatorem Matthiam vigesima die mensis
Martii anni pra?sentis millesimi sexcentesimi decimi noni ex hac
serumnosa vita ad alteram longe beatissimam evocare visum; et a
tali obitu nihil mediante, ut nonnulke alise terrae ac regna, ita etiam
inclytum regnum Boemia? cum annexis provinciis ad Serenissimum

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 183
et Potentissimum Principem Ferdinandum 2m Hungaria? et Bohe-
miae Regem, tanquam in publicis Regni Comitiis die 7 Junii anni
1617 unanimi ordinum voto et consensu in Regem receptum decla
ration et pronunciatum, et eodem mense die 29a ritu solenni unctum
et coronatum, cui etiam dicti ordines sacramento consueto fidelitatis
et subjeetionis sese obstrinxerunt, pleno jure devolutumfu.it: Regia
sua Mataa ea? primo omnium curae sibi habuit qua? in tam subita
rerum permutatione omnium maxime necessaria esse judicaverat.
Et quia jampridem magno tenebatur desiderio juvandi dictum
Regnum Bohemia? ab aliquo tempore gravissimis belli incommodis
obnoxium: nulla mora interposita huic operi manum admovit. Li
teras ad Regni Vicarios a Divo Imperatore Matthia huic muneri
adhuc pra?fixosa mox 21a Martii dedit; quibus imprimis luctuosam
mortem Csesaris et Regis eorum nunciavit: eos praeterea in officio,
ad id tempus donee aliter de rebus omnibus disponat, confirmavit ;
tertio sese declarat intra praescriptum tempus quatuor hebdomedarum
se vigore reversalium suarum Statibus daturum, confirmationem au-
thenticam privilegiorum Regni ad manus supremi Burggravii trans-
missurum, seduloque curaturum ut afflicto Regno pristina quies et
tranquillitas restituatur, et inter regnicolas cuncta ex jure et a?quo
agantur, quemadmodum tam prsetactis Uteris, quam reversalibus
plenius ha?c omnia continentur. Atque, ut Rex subditos memora-
bili exemplo praeiret, eisque viam restauranda? pad commonstraret,
inter alia primum etiam hoc fuit quod turn in Boemia turn in Aus
tria de armis cohibendendis et suspendendis expressum mandatum
dedit; Hungarique excastris reversi sunt. Et de hoc ipso Bohemos
cum spe indubitata idem ut illos facturos certiores reddi jussit, et
seorsum etiam eorum militia? Pnefecti per Comitem Bucquoi hujus
commonefactisunt: a quibus autem hoc solum responsi accepit, se
de suspendendis armis a Directoribus suis nihil in mandatis habere.
Exinde certe pacem ipsis magis odio quam amori esse manifeste
colligipotu.it; quod et re ipsa comprobarunt quando, paucis diebus
- Those of the ten members of the Regency who still remained at Prague.

184 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
post, militem Regium pro advehendo comeatu omissum, nihil hosti-
litatis vel suspicantem vel metuentem adorti, ca?sisque aliquot illorum,
ipsis omnem comeatum ademerunt. Ciim vice versa Rex pads cu-
pidissimus omnino sibi persuasum habebat, seditiosos mutato Regni
statu consilia quoque sua mutaturos, Majestati suae a qua nunquam
la?si, debita fidelitatis et obsequiorum officia pra?stituros, et tranquil-
litatis atque reconciliationis recuperanda? et obtinenda? optimam sibi
oblatam occasionem amplexuros. Veriim his omnibus frustratus est.
Nam postquam feria 2da Pascha? a pra?fecti Regni Vicarii Regias illas
literas hominibus nomen Directorum praetendentibus communica-
runt, illi primo paucitate sua, postea gravitate rei, quo minus tam
citb respondere possint, sese excusarunt ; primo quoquo die se tamen
negocium ponderaturos et responsum daturos esse polUciti sunt, quod
ne quidem in hanc usque horam factum est.
Hoc tamen non obstante, Rex promissis suis in reversalibus
factis stetit, et mature confirmationem privilegiorum et immuni-
tatum Regni in omnibus verbis punctis et clausulis Caesaris Mat-
thia? confirmationi conformem, et quidem duplicatam, si forte
alteram harum per quempiam intercipi contingeret, supremo Burg-
gravio, unaque obsignatas credentiales ad omnes eo tempore Praga?
ex Ordinibus congregatos transmisit ; quibus Rex muneri suo
satisfactum esse attestatus, atque ut et ipsi fidei suae data? me-
mores esse velint, eos adhortatus est. Sed tanta fuit hominum
istorum circa Regem proprium irreverentia, quod literas ad ipsos
exaratas acceptare recusaverint, hanc nempe ob causam quod ipsis
titulus inquit [sic] Directorum et partis sub utraque communi-
cantis non fuerit attributus. Ciim tamen Directorum nomen nun
quam legitime assecuti nee etiam ab Imperatore Matthia tales com-
pellati fuerunt, cujus nihilominus Uteris quia eas acceptarent ad
illasque responderent nunquam contradixerunt ; multo minus etiam
litera? ad illos solos dirigi poterant, siquidem privilegia quorum
confirmatio transmissa fuit omnes et universos ordines turn sub una
quam sub utraque concernebant. Remissis itaque Uteris, interea
a Easter Monday,

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 185
publicis suis decretis totum Regnum in armis esse jubent et cogunt,
simulque exactionibus tantis et tam gravibus onerant, quales a
memoria hominum nullus Regum vel petere ausus fuit, Regem
etiam apud Electores seculares in odium suis inducere nitun-
tur Uteris; turn quod priores de novo constituerit Vicarios, turn
quod militem ex Regno non educat sed augeat; et affingunt pra?-
terea, imo fals6 asserunt quasi sibi gubernationem Regni non adim-
pletis requisitis vendicet. His tamen omnibus, quae ipsi optime
perspecta fuere, Rex minime commotus, Vicarios de urgendo res
ponse Uterarum promisso admonet; ad quod iterum nihil secutum
est. Quin potius dum inani spe responsi dandi Regem lactant, et
omnes seditiones suas fovendi et prosequendi vias, de quibus Regi
optime constitit, inquirant. Sed nee adhuc Regia Sua M*as eo
adduci potuit, ut quicquam de innata sua dementia remitteret:
im6 spretis iis omnibus qua? in contemptum sui scribi et fieri vidit
et scivit, denuo Uteris ad Bohemos datis, amorem suum erga
Regnum et omnes regnicolas vere paternum contestatus, eosque
benignissime adhortatus est ut ad sedandos istos motus, vel, felicis
principii saltern faciendi causa, aliquos de suo numero (securitatem
accedendi et recedendi ipsis verbo Regis promittendo) ad aulam
suae Ma*i9 mittere nee in mora esse vellent; fore enim, quod res
ha?c Regno et ipsismet magnum sit commodum allatura. Verum
neque hoc apud illos locum habuit, et quod magis ne responso qui
dem vel ad ha?c vel ad priora omnia Regem hucusque dignati
sunt. Dum ha?c ita aguntur Bohemi militem suum domi collectum et
coactum lustrant, et in circulos distribuunt.
Comes Henricus Matha?ua de Turri, adducto secum partim con-
scripto, partim domestico milite, Moraviam ingressus, ibi, quod
multoties antea a Bohemis tam per literas quam per ablegatos qua?-
situm et solicitatum est, Moravos contra Regem stimulavit, et ut
se illis conjungerent, omnibusque modis ursit et institit, idque
effecit quod nonnulli ad seditionem proniores, debita? erga Regem
suum observantia? et legum immemores, praesidio mille equitum
CAMD. SOC. 2 B

186 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
ad Marchionatum Moravia? defendendum nequaquam verb a tumul-
tum concitandum collectorum et juramento obstrictorum cincti,
civitatem Regiam Brunam alteram post Metropolim, ubi dum
propter conventum indictum Ordines frequentes convenerant, ex
inopinato vi adorti, et occupatis portis extorsisque civitatis clavibus
in potestatem suam redegerunt. Neque hoc contenti mox capi-
taneum Marchionis locum et vices gerentem, et alios primarios
Marchionatus illius proceres et officiales, Regia? sua? M'19 fideles
ministros, nullo habito respectu Religionis in a?des illorum irruentes,
verbis et minis indigne tractarunt: personas Religiosas cum scitu
Statuum ante plurimos annos in provinciam introductos nullo alle
gata causae exemplo Bohemorum exterminarunt et proscripserunt,
eorumque bona sibi mendicarunt : templa parochialia, de quibus
nulla unquam lis vel controversia fuit, et in qua? nullum prorsus
jus ipsis competit, prim6 ibidem Bruna? postea Oloraucii civitate
metropoli ausu novo et temerario occuparunt : cives in officio sena-
torio nomine Regis positoS removerunt; monasteria et eorum reli-
giosos, aliosque ecclesiasticos omnibus modis divexarunt: Directores
administrando toti Marchionatui, jus et potestatem legitimo Mar-
chioni et Domino suo adimendo, ad instar Bohemorum praefecerunt :
et multis aliis in rebus scriptis et factis suis ita se gesserunt,
tametsi omnia ipsis licerent, nullique vel superiori vel Regi sub-
jecti essent.
Ha?c pra?fatus Comes de Turri mox Directoribus suis Bohemicis
magno cum applausu perscripsit, et se tantorum ac tam praecla-
rorum facinorum authorem jactitavit. Eosdem vero etiam in
Austria successus et eventus sibi pollicendo primo civitatem Laa
proxima? Moravia? ipsum admittere nolentem obsedit; et, licet vix
manipulus de milite Regio eo positus fuerat, nihil tamen aliquot
dierum spacio cum abductis copiis suis efficere potuit.
Tandem Rex, civium ibidem et aliarum hoc jure interpositarum
precum intuitu, paucos suos milites inde educi et loco illorum
* There seems to be something omitted here.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 187
Austriacorum militem cui nihil tamen negocii cum Bohemis esse
deberet intromitti consensit.
Post ha?c ejusdem Comitis de Turri audacia et temeritas eo usque
excrevit quod Viennam versus, qua? urbs contra hostem Christiani
nominis praecipuum propugnaculum, cum copiis suis processerit;
ibidemque Danubio trajecto in suburbiis militem collocaverit.
Illuc vero suam haud dubie et consilio sociorum et confaederatorum
suorum statim atque provenit, non obscure constat, eum sibi indu-
bitatum in urbem ingressum fuisse pollicitum, eamque spem Direc-
toribus suis fecisse, qua? illos tamen omnes fefellit. Ubi itaque
technas suas detectas esse, eaque qua? in animo habebat minime ex
voto suo succedere velle cognovit, tentavit quidem qua? potuit,
militem suum ostentandi causa a longe conspiciendum in campum
produxit, posteaque aliquot dierum spacio ibidem in suburbiis deti-
nuit et diligenter excubias habuit: globos etiam non solum ad
mo?nia, sed et arcem, usque ad locum residentia? eo tempore Regiae
emittendo, liberum ex urbe exitum et in eam ingressum impedi-
endo, homines rebus suis spoliando, et quam plurima alia mala
perpetrando nihil hostilitatis praetermisit : postremd tamen, magna
offensorum hominum cum qua?rimonia, eadem via qua? inconsiderate
venit contumeliose reversus est. Fecerunt interea Directores Bohe-
mici bona omnia monasteriorum scripto publico in Bohemia vena-
lia; ex ipsis nonnulla vendiderunt. Indixerunt etiam conventum
generalem ut Bohemis ita etiam omnibus adjunctis Provinciis. Ad
quem magno numero postquam convenerunt, quid pro vero amore
patriae, pro pace publica, pro fide Regi et Domino suo retinenda
et non violanda, quid denique boni egerint tractaverint et conclu-
serint, imprimis verb et ante omnia an solo (ut populo persuadere
nitantur) Religionis amore ad hos toti Reipublicae Christiana? conatus
adeo perniciosos devenerint, ex consilio illorum tam privatis quam
publicis et eorum effectu facile innotescet. Hoc saltern inter alia
inde emanasse comperimus quod Regem et Dominum suum rite
unctum et coronatum et ad omnia jura Electoralia exercenda a
Divo quondam Imperatore Matthia plene investitum, ac proinde

188 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
jure optimo et inevincibili*ad praesentem Regis Romanorum Elec-
tionem a Domino Electore Moguntino Francofordum citatum et
accersitum, a voce et voto Electionis (quod tamen minime in illorum
potestate situm est) excludere velle praesumant, et tam facto quam
scripto suo limites debita? modestiae et fidelitatis excedant.
Rex vero his omnibus non attentus, etsi miUtem suum, cum
secus facere non possit, ad bonos tuendos et malos coercendos in
campum eductum habeat, publicis tamen suis postremo editis man
datis, omnibus iis qui se fideles et obedientes subditos profiteban-
tur gratiam et clementiam suam offert et pollicetur, in eoque propo
siti) firmiter etiamnum perseverat.

No. XCII.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Hanau, August T7„ 1619.]
Right Honorable,
In my last of the 24th of July I mentioned my purpose to visit
the Spanish Ambassador, which I did accordingly upon Munday
the 26th, having advertised him of my comming two dayes before
hand, not out of respect only, but to give him that time both to
conferre with King Ferdinand and advise with his owne instruc
tions how to yielde the King my master the best satisfaction. And,
because I consider him as a person of more principall regard to
me then King Ferdinand himselfe, I thinke it my duty, for his
Ma'ios cleerer information, not only to relate the effect of the pas
sage betweene us, but to marke out all the severall stepps.
I skipp over all ceremony, though if I had any malitious affection
I have good occasion to insist on some parte thereof. That done,
I could not thinke of any fitter entrance into discourse with him
then by making a briefe relation of that which had passed both
betweene King Ferdinand himselfe and betweene his counsellor

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 189
and me at Saltzburg; whereunto I added this in conclusion, that
I should have beene very ill satisfied with the answere I there
receyved if I had not in the end gotten a reason why it was no
better, which was the absence of the Comte d'Oniate. And there
I left to see what he would say of it, expecting that he would have
gone about to excuse, but not as he did to maintayne so fading a
colour as the pretence of a former reference to the four Princes of
the Empire heeretofore named ; which, notwithstanding he thought
to have made hold by taking upon him to know that all those
Princes, and particularly the Prince Elector Palatine, had embraced
the motion with much signification of willingnes to undertake the
worke, I could have opposed my more certayne knowledge of that
Prince his unwillingness to be so unequally yoked.
But. I had a readier way to beate him of this ground, by de
manding why my master's intervention had beene so earnestly
intreated by his master, if it could not now be accepted? with
which downright question he was not a little staggered, but in the
end recovered this weake footing, that those princes being all of
so greate power in the Empire, and three of them Electors, King
Ferdinand had at this time especiall reason to be carefull not to
discontent them, but that my master's interposition should be also
admitted, and that his Ma'io, being both in his state and person in
so high a degree above them, would have all the glory of the
peace when it was made, though they had their part of travell in
the making.
It had bene easy for me to have made him confesse that, since
my master had not only assented to the King of Spaines request,
but designed me to this employment with strict commandement
to use all diligence in the journey, a full moneth before the late
Emperor's death, his Ma'ie had not beene much beholding to King
Ferdinand for being so hasty to putt himselfe into these Princes'
handes before my comming, and less to Comte d'Oniati for having
never advertised this into England. But I had no mind to put
him thus hard to it, and therefore only desired to knowe what I

190 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
had then at the present to doe heere for the King of Spaines
service. In answer wherunto he had it seemes a minde to give
me worke inough, entring into a deepe discourse that the peace
would easily be concluded if three things were done before hand.
First, if the Evangeliques could be perswaded to believe that the
King his master had no other dessein upon the Empire then the
seeking of the peace therof. Secondly, if the misunderstandinges
and exacerbations betweene the Ecclesiasticall and Evangelicall
Princes (for so he termed them) could be rectified and mitigated.
Lastly, if there were an Emperor chosen as a head to keepe all the
partes of this great body in order. I had no disposition to follow
him farre in this wilde fielde, which I saw tended but to come to
a new pretext to delay me ; and therefore, to bring him soone backe,
sayd only, that I quite contrary was of opinion that while his
master's forces and the warre continued in Bohemia it was impos
sible to effect his two former propositions, and unseasonable to goe
about the later, as I thought all uninterested lookers on judged
now, and I feared King Ferdinand and his friendes would finde
hereafter, with repentance for having dearly purchased the wearing
of the Imperiall Crowne a few moneths sooner, with God knew
how many years after-trouble at the cheapest. He would have
maintained this latter of his propositions by shewing that the
making of a peace would require a great length of time; that the
Election could not be deferred without violation of the Sulla Aurea ;
that if there were once a breach made in that, being the foundation
of all order in the Empire, nothing but universall confusion could
ensue. But I interrupted him, telling him there were many ex
amples to the contrary, and one of so fresh memory as that of
Charles the Vth, the most glorious Emperor of the House of
Austria; but that this dispute belonged to the Electors; and that
for me, seeing he wisely foresaw the making of a peace would cost
so much time, I had reason to spende as litle as might be idly, and
therefore prayed him without speeche of attending the issue of
the Election (wherewith I had nothing to doe) to procure me an

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 191
answere the soonest was possible;" which (since King Ferdinand
had made him his oracle, and subsisted meerely by his master's
forces, which the Ambassador confessed were in his handes to dis
pose of,) I made no doubte it would be such as might give satis
faction to his maister's best friende.
And then, upon his request to be informed what it was that I
would require, I made this demande; to have in the first place
assurance of a present cessation of armes, upon usuall and reason
able conditions, and then of a treaty to ensue, with persons, time,
and place appoynted for it. These appeared to be all poyntes of
hard digestion, especially that of the cessation, for he chewed long
upon it with confessed distast, in respect of the present advantages
he sayd King Ferdinand now had gotten, and by that meanes
should loose the fruite of. But in the end he putt it over roundely,
with this corrective, that when the Election was past, upon con
dition that King Ferdinand might enjoy his kingdom in the same
manner that his predecessors had done before him, he would under
take his Ma'y should condiscend not only to a cessation from all
acts of hostility, but to a licentiating of the army. This I could
take to be no other then a faire bayte to make me swallow the
Election. But to make my best profitt of it, I asked what assurance
I should be able to give the Bohemians of this franke offer. He
offered, first, his owne word in the name of his master, then Arch
duke Albert's, and at last would have beene promising for our
master too. But I thought it unsafe to have his Ma'? stand
engaged without better security of being borne harmles, and there
fore, withdrawing his Ma'?9 name as having no commission to use
it, I desired to have this promise under King Ferdinandes owne
hand, and the Ambassador's, but to have it presently, to the end
that I might goe in diligence to the Bohemians, and, after I had
done my best endeavours with them, returne agayne hither before
the Dyet dissolved, that so further order might be taken for the
accommodation of the troubles. I saw him plainely pinched with
1 Some words have been carefully erased here.

192 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
this, yet he promised me fayrely, but rather, as it seemed then, and
hath since appeared, out of shame to eate his owne wordes so hott,
then out of any good affection to satisfye me, and so we brake off
for this time.
There was now nothing in the world I longed for so much as the
knowledge of his Maties resolution upon the questions I propounded
in my dispatch from Saltzburg, because by this proceeding I found
they were not altogether impertinent. And thorough this gentle
man's diligence (who I know needes no other commendation to
make him wellcome to you agayne) I receyved it happily the very
next day in your last letters of the 20th of July, wherein I am sory
to find the misbehavior of my servant I sent formerly to yow, which
letts me see a foole is ever an unfitt rhessengeiy though he may have
diligence, and there be no more left to him.
I was now being thus armed in no lesse impatience to receyve my
answere. But, notwithstanding that I did at severall times solicit
both the King by his counsellors, and the Ambassador likewise, first
by message and after by letter (as the inclosed a will give sufficient
evidence if it be needefull) , yet I neither receyved answere nor ex
cuse for the delay till Tuesday the 3rd of August.
On that day the Baron of Trautsmerstorff came to me from the
King and delivered me his Mano9 answere, first by word of mouth,
and after in the inclosed writing,b which he brought with him, being,
as by perusall you will find, in stuffe the very same with that I had
at Saltzburg, and surely not much mended in fashion. I receyved
also by the Baron's handes the long promised information ° against
the Bohemians, which you doe alsoe receyve with the other.
I was not a little jealous that this answere had been made thus ill
at first out of dessein that the Ambassador might have that fayre
occasion both to magnify his procuring a better, and to amuse me
till the Election. The best was that I could not be long in this
feare. For the Ambassador had appoynted to returne me my visit
next day. And then, after he had lett me understand his minde-
¦ No. LXXXIX. b No. XC. « No. XCI.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 193
fulnes of my request at my being with him, and excused the delays I
had receyved in my desires, not thorough his faulte. He asked me
if there had not at the last beene a minister of the King with me,
and how I was satisfied with the answere he had given me.
I returned his complements, and then shewed him the answere,
praying him to take the payns to read it, to the end that being ( as I
was assured) well acquainted with the matter he might see whether
it were well and fully expressed in wordes, because I was to send it
to the King my master. He did this at my intreaty, and then sayd
it was just as was resolved in all poyntes. I had heeretofore sayd as
much as I thought fitt touching the reference to the foure Princes,
and therefore now insisted only upon the answere to the cessation
from armes, and particularly upon those words hac vice which I de
sired to have explained. Representing further unto him that since
the late Emperor had yielded to a cessation when the Duke of Saxe
was by him made sole arbitrator of the differences ; and King Fer
dinand himselfe had before my master's intervention expressed so
much care of preventing the spoyling of the countrey by armes,
(first by often offering his subjects conditions of peace, and then by
referring himselfe to the four Princes,) unles I being knowne to have
bene sent on this employement in King Ferdinandes behalfe, after
so long time waiting on him, might at last goe to the Bohemians
with as fayre an olive branch in my mouth as they had ever seene
(which was an accord to a cessation of armes at least) it was impos
sible that they should thinke either my master their friende or me
their servant, or consequently send me backe with any other then a
flatt denyall to harken to my perswasions. And that besides, since
the treaty was referred to the foure Princes, unles his Ma'' might
have the peculiar honor of making a truce, I saw not what
parte of the peace worthy of his Matie could be ascribed to his
intercession. In answer to this remonstrance it pleased the Ambassador to deale
cleerely with me, telling me most ingeniously that there was a greate
difference betwene the times I mentioned; for that at the times I
CAMD. SOC. 2 C

194 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
spake of, in the late Emperor's life, and of King Ferdinand's raigne
since, the war had then cost little, and the countrey receyved as little
harme. But that now when the King had bene at the expense of
introducing and maintayning a greate army, when the kingdome
was already so much ruined that it was now too late to seeke to pre
serve it, and when the victory inclined so much to the King's partie
that he was no longer in doubt of the event, there were but
two wayes of comming to a peace, one by treaty in which the
Bohemians as having the worst and being subjects must begin to
offer conditions, and the other by subduing the kingdome by the
sword, which he said King Ferdinand hath sufficient power to doe,
and doth not clayme that Crowne by vertue of his Election (which
he saith was only for a forme) but by right of a donation from the
King of Spaine, on whome both that, and the other of Hungarie are
hereditarily descended, as he promised to make me understand by
writing, and I shall then send the title to his Matio. But how his
Mati0 shall be able to perswade the Bohemians to a peace without
a truce first accorded on the King's part, or what reputation shall
redound to our greate master out of my negotiation, it pleased the
Ambassador to passe over in silence, and I thought it best to leave
it there too.
But tooke this fayre occasion to examine the truth of a very
particular advertisement from Naples, that the Duke of Ossuna is
ready to send 10000 men into Germanie, which verifyeth the jea-
lousie the Venetians have long had, that the bruite which hath
bene dispersed in all Europe of that Duke's revolt was raysed by
collusion to drowne the noise of some great dessein. For the
discovering of this misterie I only sayd this, that before they were
too farre engaged to persist in this violent course they had begun,
they might doe wisely to be well resolved that the advantages they
presumed so much on were not more in conceipt then in truth,
which, for ought I heard, they might have cause to suspect, unlesse
they had fresh succours comming out of Italy, as I had beene
advertised. Wherupon he made no scruple to confesse the advise

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 195
to be true, and laughed at the rumor of the Duke of Ossuna, who
he assured me is so faythfull, and so affectionate a servant to their
master, that he hath offered to serve in these Germane warres as a
privat soldier.
Sir, it was happy for me, that I had so long before receyved and
disgested your reiterated admonitions to beware of expressing any
resentment. For if I had not bene more restrayned by obedience
then discretion, I know not whether I should have contayned from
bewraying some passion at this time. But now I forced my selfe
to come of thus fairely, that it was at the King of Spaines suite,
and in King Ferdinandes behalfe, that my master had sent me on
this employment of intercession. But that if they had since gotten
so much the better by a contrary way, that my service was heerin
of no more use to them , I thought my master out of his love to
that house would be well contented they should make the best use
they could in their wisedomes of the advantages which their vertue
and fortune had acquired. And that for my owne part I only
desired to know wherein els I might be usefull to their endes.
Herupon the Ambassador fell to request me to employ all the
strength of my master's credit, and of the little prudence it pleased
him for his owne reputation to laye to my charge, toward the doing
of good offices at the election. I told him that although I had
made no wordes of it to him, yet I had acquainted King Ferdi
nand at Saltzburg that I had a speciall commandement of the King
my master to dispose his sonne the Prince Elector Palatine to
favour aU the endes of the House of Austria in Germany, so farre
as might come within his power. That I had accordingly dis
charged my duty herunto, at my first comming into this countrey ;
but found that prince so well inclined of himselfe to tread still (as
in his minority he had begun) in the steppes of his auncestors by
all good correspondence with that familie, so farr as he might with
out prejudice to his religion and vicariat (which boundes my master
could hot wishe him to transcend), that I had by this office only
given a useles testimony of my master's wel wishing to that house,

196 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
and knew not what other service I could now contribute to them
at the election. Yet he forbore not to instance me still, as if my
presence there might be of some, he would not say what, great
avayle to them ; and told me that I should then after the election
finde King Ferdinand gratious, and the Bohemians pliant to a
peace; which I was not willing to understand, nor have much rea
son to beleeve.
For to come now to give his Ma'J an accompt of that party ; my
servant, William Norrys, whom it may be his Ma'? may know, and
of whom I made choyce because he had beene my interpretor to
King Ferdinand, beside the reasons hertofore specified, is a few
dayes since returned to me. His instructions, and a copy of the
credentiall letters I gave him, I send inclosed; if there be any
faulte in the forme, it was committed for want of better counsell.
For having beene informed from King Ferdinand's counsellor that
those States had refused to open some of his master's letters because
they were not inscribed in due manner, my selfe being in danger
to comitt that error out of ignorance which it may be his minis
ters did out of willfulness, thought it the surest way to furnish my
messenger with a patent commission, that it might serve him either
to the whole body or to any one leading person among them,
according as he should on the place finde reason to employ the
creditt I gave him. Accordingly he having learned of Comte
Mansfeldt (to whom he is knowne) that the Baron de Rupa is at
the present a chiefe guider among them, made his addresse to him,
delivered his errand, which was at first in private very kindly
receyved by him. But as jealousy upon all propositions and slow-
nes in resolutions are two unseparable humors of all populaces, after
that the Baron had imparted the summe of my advertisements to
the body of the Directors, and my servant afterward by their com
mandement, they discovered no small dislike of my not comming
to them in person, but going with the King to Franckfurt (for so
they would needes conceyve it, notwithstanding all that my servant
was able to demonstrate to the contrary) ; and to tell you the whole

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 197
truth there were that sayd the mighty Monarch of Great Britayne
might have done better to have assisted them with men or money
then with an Ambassage which would prove in the end of no
benefitt to them. But that since his Ma1? had thought otherwise,
that he and all the world should see them sacrifice their lives, for
tunes, wives and children, for the liberty of their religion and
countrey, in no base nor unworthy fashion. This I have mentioned
that you may see they were disabused of their hopes of money
sooner then was needefull for his Matios service. At last after many
days stay at Prague, in continuall expectation of a dispatche, my
servant was at last dismissed without any manner of answere, or so
much as thankes for my advertising them so carefully what had
passed betweene the King and me. I did not expect much better
from a beast of so many heades, and was not therefore much
troubled at it, yet made a complaine hereof to their Ambassadors,
who seemed very sensible of the injury, and promised me to make
their principalis capable how much they have bene in the wrong,
and have since indeavoured this by their letters, but with what
effect I cannot yet expect to heare.
By this messenger (whom I commanded to be curious to informe
himself by his acquaintance of the true estate of their strength on
both sides) I am assured that, there being much mortality in both
campes, the Bohemians are yet the more in number, being about
22000 in paye, and about 6000 volontiers, whereof 10000 brave
horse; whereas the King's are about 19 or 20000 in roll, and 4000
or 5000 others. And whereas they have bene reported to be much
dismayed since Comte Mansfeldt's defeate, and Comte Thurn's re-
tray te from Vienna, he assures me they expresse still as much
confidence as is possible, and ascribe their having thus long at
tempted nothing against the enemy to the opunsell of their fri endes
exhorting them to proceed with moderation, that otherwise they
would long ere this have brought the deciding of their case to the
greate assise of a day of battell, which hath bene their ancient and
ever happy ward against their oppressors. And I am here told

198 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
from very good part that a Prince (whose name is concealed from
me) hath of late sent them their old famous commander Zisky his
sworde with a comfortable message.
Besides, while my man was at Prague there was, in the presence
of at least 15 hundred persons, a confederation betweene the Bohe
mians and the Moravians, Silesians, lower and upper Lausuits, so
lemnly ratified by oath unto very many articles, whereof he could not
before his comming away gett a copy, but remembreth two prin-
cipall; that they should never admitt any King but upon stipu
lation first made by him not to reentertayne the Jesuites, so much as
to be his domestiques, nor in his lifetime to proceede to the nomi
nation of his successor. He doth yet further advertise me that he
heard there, as I have also done here from a very good hand, that
the Prince of Transylvania, whose nephew is bredde at Heydel
berg, and who, being of the religion, hath beene heertofore forced
to put himselfe under the protection of the Turke for his security
from the invasion of the house of Austria (as I presume you know),
hath now an army of 30000 men, and it is thought will either
leade them directly to the Bohemians' assistance, or els against
some part of the Austrians' territories, which is all one in effect.
He doth likewise assure me the uniting of the Roman Catholiques
with the Evangeliques in Prague and the burning of townes to be
so true, that he saw above 24 gentlemen of good quality come to
aske releife of the Directors as having all they had in the world
taken away and consumed. He addeth that it is there vulgarly
sayd that there hath bene a commandement from the King to
Count Dampiere to use this cruelty intercepted in an Agnus Dei.
But for this I leave you to the liberty of your beleefe.
This is certayne that in Vienna Archduke Leopold hath dis
armed all the Protestants and burned their books.
Out of like bitternes of spirit a servant of one of the ecclesiastical
Electors at Francfurt, being present at a Protestant sermon, ap-
proched to the preacher and gave him publiquely the lye.
The Prince Elector Palatine lying with his army in the Upper

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 199
Palatinate, doth by that meanes stoppe that passage into Bohemia.
His Lieutenant, the Marquis of Ansbach, did of late sett upon a
regiment of foote going that way without leave to King Ferdi
nand's party, under the conduct of Colonell Fulkes, and killed
160 of them; and we are yesterday certainly advertised that 500
horse marching for that party from Archduke Albert attempted
to have gone thorough the Marquis of Ansbach his countrey with
out leave, which was offered them upon condition that they would
disarme. But refusing peremptorily, they were charged by the
Prince Elector Palatine, who was there in his owne person. There
are foure skore and ten slayne, many taken, and the rest routed.
On the other side the King of Polonia is sayd to have offered
to send the Prince his sonne with 8000 men to King Ferdinandes
succor ; but that he hath thanked . that King for his favour, out of
jealousie that having some pretensions on Silesia it may be but a
fayre colour to invade and possesse himselfe therof.
It is now about ten dayes since the Ecclesiasticall Electors dis
patched two curriers, one to the Prince Palatine, and another to
the Duke of Saxe, inviting them earnestly to render themselves yet at
this Diett, or at least to send their plenary commissions and inten
tions to their deputyes. These curriers are not yet returned, but
the Ecclesiasteks are resolved to proceede to the election upon the
10th of this moneth, and there is still no doubt how they will
give their voyces.
This meane time King Ferdinand hath taken his pleasure in
hunting with the Bishop of Cologne, and hath had the ill fortune
shooting at a deare to kill a man.
The common people of Francfurt doe imagine that some greate
alteration in the Empire to be portended by a swarm e of bees
ominously setting downe before their towne house, and they are
now not a little confirmed in that superstition by a word that
lately chanced to escape a servant of King Ferdinand's, that the
Marques of Spinola would come up into Germany with an army.
That the Marquis himselfe would come to Francfurt, there hath

200 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
long beene speech at Brusselles, though not well beleived, and if
true supposed to be but to congratulate. The rest may be addition,
yet because it is a matter of so great importance, I have by this
bearer written to Mr. Trumbull to informe himselfe diligently
thereof, and to give his Ma'^ a speedy accompt of what he findes is
true of this boast ; this is all I know of niewes.
And now to returne to the mayne business, when in my most
fixed and impartiall thoughts I doe weigh this second answere,
and finde it to my sense in substance not one dramme better then
the former, it may be many worse in the Bohemians' opinion for
the Spanish Ambassador comming in to be a treater, his master
being a party; and then examining the circumstances finde it by
them so much impayred in goodnes as the allay of 14 dayes attend
ance amounteth too; and after all this, at last reade over and
neerely observe the signification of his Ma'io9 pleasure by your well
made penne, truly I conceyve my selfe sufficiently directed what
to doe; but because I feele my owne weake discretion unable to
stand upright under the weight of so important a resolution as it
hath pleased his Ma'' to impose on me, I have devised to ease it
of the mayne burden by this meanes: I have told the Spanish
Ambassador that finding myselfe useles here till the Election be
past, I would crave the Kinges leave and his to make a steppe to
kisse her Highnes' handes, and from thence for my health to goe
drinke the waters of the Spaw for the few dayes yet remayning of
their season. And for the better avoyding of all suspition, I doe
intend to leave the body of my trayne heere behinde me as a pledge
of my returne. This was the best colour I could think of for my
departing from this place, and that place the fittest to retire too,
being farre inough off to defend his Ma'J from any dishonor in case
the Bohemians should receyve any blow during my mediation with
King Ferdinand, and yet not so farre off but that I may returne
hither agayne if his Ma'? doe yet thinke there be any life in the
business, which as I doe wholly submitt to his Ma'ios infinite wise-
dome. Now that I have discharged one part of my duty mingendo

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 201
dare (that I may use your phrase), so I doe thinke there remaynes
yet another, in setting downe my observations upon the pulse of the
affayres which I am neerer to feele.
And first, when I resume into my thoughts King Ferdinandes
referring the accommodation of these troubles to the four Princes,
just against my comming; his Ambassador's neglecting to visitt
me at Bruxelles ; his owne first purpose certainly to have discharged
me at Saltzburg upon that pretence he had provided if I had
not wrested more from his Counsellor ; and now the Spanish Am
bassador maintayning that flatt answere, and producing the
unheard of title to the Crowne of Bohemia, with many other
arguments which you can better collect out of my relation;
putting all these together, I am not afrayd to say that I feare
the King of Spaine never intended to make other use of our mas
ter's interposition then by that meanes to diverte his royall inten
tions to assist the Bohemians, out of knowledge of his owne fayre
and direct proceedings.
Secondly, though our master's intervention were at first sincerely
desired, yet it is too apparent that whatsoever they use to doe in
other affayres, in this they intend to governe their counsells by
their present advantages, not their past engagements. And they
may possibly have some inducements herunto strong inough to
sway inclined mindes, which I have written in a note apart as
unfitt matter for a dispatch.
Lastly, though King Ferdinand and his party were still in truth
desirous of a Peace, yet unles they would mend their marche
toward it, I see little hope of ever bringing the Bohemians and
them together. And this I dare confidently prognosticate, that
if his Ma'y shall command me to returne to Francfurt to congra
tulate with King Ferdinand when he shall be elected King of the
Romans (the Bohemians having protested against his usurpation
of the Electorall voyce for their State, and this with reason, as you
will finde by a well written remonstrance to the Elector of Mayence),
I shall not afterward finde much better welcome at Prague then
CAMD. soc. 2 D

202 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
my servant did. I protest by that fayth to his Ma'? which I shall
never violate, that I have no other endes in propounding of these
difficultyes to his Mattes most excellent wisedome then the dis
charge of my conscience in giving him notice of those rockes,
which feare, more then foresight, hath made me discover, being
now equally ready to returne hither or to England according as
his Ma*y shall judge best for his honor and service, which shall ever
with me waighe downe all privat respects.
The celebration of the 5th of August with due solemnity hath
beene cause that these goe hence a day later then they should other
wise have done, which I hope the bearer's speede will redeeme on
the way, and his Ma*? excuse; the time having been spent in
praying and drinking to his health, which I beseech God long to
continue, and so having wearyed you, I will now rest
Your most affectionate and faythfull friende
and servant,
Doncaster.
Hanau, 7th August, 1619.
I had almost forgotten to intreate you, in case his Ma'y shall
resolve to recall me, to send me by this bearer his commandements
and directions in these three mayne points:
1. First, whether I shall take any other leave of King Ferdinand
and the Spanish Ambassador then I have done allready; and if I
shall, in what wordes.
2. Secondly, whether I shall send his Ma*09 letters to the States
of Bohemia, or rather some other in my owne name ; which if his
Ma*? hold fitter, I desire to have them drawne to my hand.
3. Thirdly, whether I shall returne by the States of the Low
Countries, according to the promise made to them by Sir D. Car-
.leton in excuse of my diversion to Brusselles, which was not only
that I should at my returne pay them that intended respect, but
(in case his Ma^9 mediation should take no effect) consult with
them what was then further to be done for the publique good.

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 203
And upon this occasion I cannot be so ill a wisher to the late
happy conjunction his Ma4' hath established betwene his subjects
and them, as to forbeare to tell you that, howsoever the body of
those States did not in Senate bewray any other then good satisfac
tion for my going by them (as Sir D. Carleton truely advertised
his Maty and me) , yet I was then infallibly assured that very many
good patriotes among them expressed to their confidents no little
discontentment at it, as well for the honor they conceived so
solemne a legation would have bene to their State, as also out of
some misconceyved causes of my diversion. If his Ma'? thinke
it fitt to cleere them therein by effects, I pray remember the pro
curing of a letter of credit. And because his Ma"09 being in
progresse may retard the dispatche thereof, I have thought that
if a draught only of that letter be sent me, I can fitt it with a
blanke intended for the States of Bohemia. Sir, I am
Your servant,
Doncaster.
[Let me ons more pray you to remember my servant Neather-
soll.a]

No. XCIII.
MAURICE, LANDGRAVE OF HESSE CASSEL, TO JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Eppstein, August ^§, 1619.]
Serenissime et potentissime Rex, Domine ac consanguinee plu-
rimum observa nde. Exhibita? nobis sunt Serenitatis vestra? literae
duplici potissimum de nomine nobis gratissima?, turn quod ex iis
Serenitatis vestra? indefessum studium ad procurandam et conser
vandam Christiani orbis tranquillitatem abunde perspexerimus, turn
» Autograph.

204 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
quod Serenitas vestra ejus qua? inter nos intercedit necessitudo recor-
dari voluerit. Et sane maxime optandum fuisset motus illos supe-
riori anno in Bohemia concitatos citius sopiri et Germaniam nos
tram qua? exinde non parum periclitatur in tuto collocari potuisse.
Verum cum utraque pars indies magis exacerbetur eo majorem
difficultatem transactio ilia modo habere videtur. Jucundum nobis
fuisset cum Serenitatis vestra? legato domino Jacobo Haio coram
conferre, ipsique nostram mentem plene exponere. Verum et ipsius
et nostra negotia facultatem illam in praesentiarum a nobis adimerunt;
interim Serenitas vestra sibi de nobis promittat, nos omnibus viribus
et conatibus nostris eo laboraturos ut pax et tranquillitas iUis pro-
vinciis reddi, religioque vera conservari et propagari possit. Sere-
nitati vestrae vicissim omnia officia et obsequia deferimus; Deum-
que Optimum Maximum precamur, ut eam quam diutissime sospitem,
et florentem conservet. Dabantur in arce Epponis, xiii Augusti,
anno 1619. Serenitatis V. Regia?
Ad omnia officia et obsequia paratissimus consanguineus,
Mauritius Hessls: Landgravius.

No. XCIV
GEORGE FREDERICK, MARGRAVE OF BADEN-DURLACH, TO
JAMES I.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Baden, August & 1619.]
Serenissime Rex, literas S. Vra5 Regiae ad me perscriptas nobilis
et illustris vir Jacobus Haius Doncastria? Vicecomes, consanguineus,
consiliarius et familiaris ab interiore cubiculo regius, aliis detentus
mihi per Thomam de Ralenson hac die reddi curavit. Ex quibus
de S. V™ Regia? singulari et benevola sollicitudine pro Romano
Imperio ejusque membris potioribus uberrime constat, cujus memo-
1 There is something omitted here, probably " rerum statu."

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 205
riam gratam apud me nunquam intermorituram recipio. Summam
ipsius rei autem quod attinet Evangelici Principes et Status haotenus
nil magis in votis quam pacem habuere, nee etiamnum aliud nisi
eam a?quam et securam expetunt. Quam alieni vero ab hac Pontifi-
corum sint animi, qui nil prater necem et sanguinem Evangelicorum
sitiunt, ex horum continuis et indefessis studiis atque actionibus
magis quam notorium. Nee quippiam in omnium adversariorum ore
quam bellum, bellum contra nos quos malitiose Haereticos indigi-
tare assolent, prout S. Vr£S Legatus ha?c plenissime explicabit. Ter
maximus Dominus Exercituum, in cujus omnipotenti manu et pax
et bellum, ipsorum conatibus resistat, ac omnia ad sui nominis glo-
riam, nccnon Ecclesia? salutem dirigat ! Caeterum S. Vra pro indu-
bitato habeat me quoque nil quod ad aequam ac tutam pacem
obtinendam ullomodo facere existimavero praetermissurum. Tandem
S. V™ Uni et Trino pro valetudine prosperrima, vita longissima ac
regimine felicissimo, eidemque me meosque officiose commendo.
Data? Badensis, xv Augusti, anno m.dcxix.
S. Vr!B addictissimus,
G. F. Marchio Badensis.

No. XCV.
VISCOUNT DONCASTER TO SIR ROBERT NAUNTON.
[State Papers. Germany.] [Cologne, August ^, 1619.]
Right Honourable,
Although I am in no great doubt but Mr. Peter Killigrew is ere
this arrived safely in England, having heard of him from Bruxelles,
beyond which he apprehended no danger} yet, because there can
be no caution too abundant in a busines of so high importance as
my dispatch by him contayned, I am much the rather induced to
advertise you of other occurrences by this second expresse, that
I may withall send you by the same meanes a double of those my
letters to you of the 7th of August.

206 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
On which very day, about twelve hours after Mr. Killigrewes
departure, the Spanish Ambassador sent his secretary to me with
a letter of credit, upon which he sayd so little, and so little to the
purpose, that I had reason to conceyve his principall errand was
to espye whether I held my resolution for the Spaw, and whether
I had made any dispatch into England, it may be out of dessein
that he might send another in like diligence to amuse his Ma'y
with vayne hopes of a better answere. Wherein if my jealousy
hath made me a true prophet, I shall humbly crave that, before his
Ma*y settle on a resolution of continuing me in this employment
upon such suggestions, I may have leave, leaving my trayne here,
to goe alone in post to kisse his sacred handes, and then when his
Ma'y shall have understood all that I am able to say, and is unfitt
to be written, to the contrary, if I cannot make it appeare that I
have reason, I will adde no more but ecce me ; and, if it shall
so please his Ma'y, returne hither in the same speede without so
much as once seeing either wife or children.
The next day we had confident newes that they of the religion
in Hungaria had, by expulsion of the Romanistes, seased themselves
on the citty and castell of Pretzburg, where the crowne of that
kingdome is kept ; and that the Comte Dampiere, having been
commanded to make an inroade into Moravia, had there a battell
given him, wherein he lost 2500 men, his canon, and the fielde;
and that though the victory were bloudy on the Moravians' side,
yet they forced that Comte to retire out of their countrey. These
I held to be matters worthy of a speciall advertisement, but because
they were only attested by fame, which had freshly before abused
me with the report of the Marquis of Ansbach his having defeated
Coronell Fulkes his regiment (which proves altogeather a tale), as
also with the amplifying of the number of the horsemen slayne by
the Prince Palatine, who are now found to be not above 18, and not
many more taken, though it be true that the whole 500 were so
broken, that halfe of them have beene since hardly rallied upon
the Lordship of Wurtzburg his countrey. This recent experience,

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 207
I say, of the uncertainty of fame's trompet upon the first sound, in
matter of warre especially, made me then so wise as to attend a
second before I gave his Ma'y the alarme; and now repent me of
it, hearing the niewes of Moravia confirmed from all partes, and
particularly from the Bohemian Ambassadors, who were advertised
thereof by an expresse currier ; with this particularity, that the
Baron of Ziettenbach (who it seemes was a chiefe commander on
the Moravians' part) wanne himselfe much honor that day.
And as touching the niewes of Hungaria, Sir Albertus Morton
(who hath used more diligence in his journey to recover his deten
tion in England then I feare may be for his health,) is now come
to me from Heydelburg, and bringes me word from Comte John
de Nassaw, who lives there in the Prince his absence, that the Hun
garians have chosen the Prince of Transylvania for their King,
which he affirmes to be most certaine, and is the more credible for
the conformity it hath with former advertisements.
This hath stirred an apprehension in me that the Bohemians may
have also a purpose to proceede to the election of a Kinga at the
Assembly which is at the present held at Prague, though the
making of some Prince their generall be only pretended. And
this with some attempt to establish their act may very well be the
meaning of the generall wordes which their Ambassadors used to
me at my taking leave of them, that I should within not many
dayes heare of a brave resolution their masters had taken, which
they were strictly charged to reveale to no person living as yet,
but promised that I should be the first they would disclose it unto.
Sir, I doe my selfe censure this for no more then a wild imagina
tion, yet, as it is, thought it not unfitt to be propounded to his Ma'y
as a thing that, if true, will put a finall end to all mediation ;
as I doubt the speeche of crownes being hereditary hath done
already. In my last I forgat to give you an accompt of your letters to Sir
» The Elector Palatine was being chosen King at Prague on the day on which this was

208 LETTERS ILLUSTRATING THE RELATIONS
Isaak Wake, which were not then gone to him, but were sent
within two dayes after by the returne of a gentleman of the Duke
of Savoy from the Princes of the Union. The reason why I
attended that commodity, which I expected would have bene much
sooner, rather then dispatched one of my owne servants to him,
you will easily collect by the note I annexed to my last, inscribed
pour le cabinet du roy.
I have receyved the duplicats of your two dispatches by Mr.
Killigrew and Cooke, as also your last letters of the 30th of July,
with the inclosed provisionall congratulation, which I thinke his
Ma'y would spare if it were to write agayne, and I shall forbeare to
deliver till I receyve a speciall commandement. But the election
is not yet made, though the burgers were sworne for the security
of the electors upon the 10th of this moneth, as I mentioned in
my last.
And so, with my accustomed prayers for his Ma'y, I rest
Your most affectionate and faythfull friende
and servant,
Doncaster.
From Cologne this 16th August,
1619.
Sir,
These were written, as they are dated, at Cologne. But the
copy of my last could not be gotten ready till I came to this place,
which I am the lesse sorry for, because I doe even now receyve
letters from my servant Norry (whom I have left for my intelli
gencer neere Francfurt) that there is there an unchecqued report
these three or foure dayes that the Count of Mansfelt hath had a
revenge on the Count de Buquoy, who thought to have surprised
Coronell Frank serving under the Count Mansfelt his charge. But
he being advertised thereof sent for ayde to the army. Count
Buquoy informed hereof fled, but was pursued, and in the flight
lost, as is sayd, about 500 men. This I found written by mar
chants to Cologne from Prague and Norimberg, but would not

BETWEEN ENGLAND AND GERMANY. 209
beleeve till it was confirmed by my servant. He writes me also
that the Princes of the Union are presently to assemble agayne at
Mulhaussen, whither he found the Lantgrave of Hesse going, when
he delivered his Matios letters to him, the answere whereunto you
receyve inclosed. I bidde you once ageyne heartily farewell, and
rest ever Your faythfull humble servant,
.Doncaster.
From Aix the 18th of August,
1619.
Sir,
I have presumed to retayne Sir Albertus Morton with me till
Mr. Killigrew returne, because I conceyve there may then be
occasion to advance- his Majesties service, more by the opportunity
of his going to the Princes of the Union, then it can be hindered
by his stay till that time.

CAMD. SOC.

INDEX.

Albert, the Archduke, does
not aspire to the Empire,
63 ; his reception of Don
caster, 99
Anhalt, Christian Prince of,
his instructions to Dohna
and Mansfeld, 5; his visit
to Turin, 108
Anspach, Joachim Ernest,
Margrave of, his instructions
to Dohna and Mansfeld, 5 ;
his reception of Doncaster,
174
Argyle, the Earl of, Doncas
ter's opinion of, 103
Bohemia, Estates of, give
James an account of the
Revolution, 1 ; ask for as
sistance, 17, 61, 78; agree
to a suspension of arms, 50 ;
their complaints against the
Emperor Matthias, 64; pro
mising condition of their
affairs, 88 ; send a message
to Doncaster, 137 ; their
Ambassadors at Frankfort,
178 ; their treatment of
Norry, 196; probabilities of
their electing a new King,
207
 Royal Charter of (Ma
jestatsbrief), appealed to
by the Estates, 1, 65
Buckingham, George Villiers,
Marquis of, informs Gondo
mar of the determination of
James about the mediation,
13 ; authorises Cottington
to lay the offer of mediation
before the Spanish -Govern
ment, 21

Bucquoy, Count, his victory
over Mansfeld, 157; his in
road into Austria, 177
Carleton, Sir Dudley, conver
sation with the Prince of
Orange, 43; is empowered
by Doncaster to deliver a,
message to the States Gene
ral, 84; excuses Doncaster's
inability to visit the Hague,
92
Ciriza, Juan de, his conversa
tion with Cottington on
Bohemian affairs, 10; for
wards Buckingham's letter
respecting the mediation to
Gondomar, 23; informs Cot
tington that the proposed
mediation will be supported
by Spain, 36
Charles, Prince of Wales,
writes to Doncaster, 140
Charles Emmanuel, Duke of
Savoy, offers Mansfeld's
troops to the Elector Pala
tine, 4; his negotiation with
"Wake, 107; hesitates to
continue his support to
Mansfeld, 140 ; urges the
Venetians to assist the
Elector Palatine, 168; is
asked to allow Spanish
troops to pass through his
territories, 170 ; refuses to
reinforce Mansfeld, 178
Cottington, Francis, acquaints
Ciriza of the desire of
James to mediate in Bohe
mia, 10 ; is empowered to
lay the offer formally before
the Spanish Government,

19 ; his interview with the
King of Spain on the sub
ject, 26 ; forwards the
King's reply to England,
39
Dohna, Christopher Baron of,
.» instructions for his mission
to Savoy, 5 ; proposed em
bassy to England delayed,
6 ; arrives at Turin, 21 ;
his mission to England, 32;
procures the renewal of the
treaty with the Union, 38,
42; prepares to leave Eng
land, 41 ; negotiates at the
Hague, 44 ; acquaints Car
leton with news from Bohe
mia, 45
Doncaster, James Hay, Vis
count of, named as Ambas
sador to Germany, 45; pre
pares for his journey j 57 ;
his letter of credence to the
Bohemians, 57 ; a house
prepared for him at the
Hague, 60; his instructions,
64 ; his journey delayed,
76; his^letter of credence
to the States General, 76 ;
he reaches Canterbury, 79 ;
is prevented by the wind
from crossing to Holland,
83 ; empowers Carleton to
deliver a message to the
States General, 84 ; ex
presses his friendly feelings
towards Carleton, 86; his
reception at Calais, 89 ; his
arrival at Brussels, 94 ; his
interview with the Arch
duke Albert, 99 j urges the

INDEX.

211

King to send help to the
Union, 120 ; begs the
Elector of Saxony to excuse
. his not visiting him, 127 ;
his journey to Heidelberg,
129 ; his reception- by the
Elector and Electress, 181;
relinquishes his visit to
Saxony, 135 ; his answer
to the Bohemian deputies,
137 ; his visit to Munich,
144 ; his reception by Fer
dinand at Salzburg, 157 ;
presses him to grant a ces
sation of arms, 162 ; sends
Norry to Prague, 166 ; his
return from Salzburg, 174;
asks On'ate to procure him
an answer from the Em
peror, 181 ; his conference
with On'ate, 188 ; his deter
mination to go to Spa on
account of his dissatisfac.
tion with On'ate's treatment
of him, 200 ; thinks the
Bohemians may elect a new
King, 207
Eger, proposed negotiation at,
45
Elizabeth, Electress Palatine,
Doncaster's account of her,
118
Ferdinand, the Archduke,
King of Hungary and Bo
hemia, his prospects of the
Empire, 63, 134 ; his right
to vote at the Imperial elec
tion questioned, 89 ; pre
pares to come to Frankfort,
138 ; his reception of Don
caster, 154, 157; refuses to
treat till he reaches Frank
fort, 163; his entrance into
Frankfort, 176 ; sends an
answer to Doncaster, 181
Finett, Sir John, gives an
account of his visit to Hei
delberg, 63
Frederick V., Elector Pala
tine, his iutrigues with Sa
voy, 5 ;" appeals to James
for help, 6, 14, 34 ; re
quests him to protect Venice

against the Spanish fleet,
43 ; informs James of the
state of the Empire, 52 ;
thanks him for sending an
Embassy, 55 ; announces
to him the death of the
Emperor, 58 ; supports the
Bohemians in their appeal
to the Dutch, 61 ; account
given of him by Doncaster,
118; his memoir to Don
caster on the affairs of Ger
many, 121 ; his conversa
tion with Doncaster, 132;
urges Doncaster to hasten
to the Emperor, 136; asks
the Duke of Savoy to urge
the Venetians to help him,
139, 167
Gondomar, Diego Sermiento
de Acun'a, Count of, his
comments on James's pro
posed mediation, 27
James I. receives information
of the Bohemian revolution,
1 ; acceptance of the King
of Spain's proposal that he
shall mediate, 4, 10, 13, 14,
21; renews his treaty with
the Union, 33; his propo
sal for a college for converts,
46 : sets forth a basis for
negotiations in Bohemia, 68;
refuses to assist the Bohe
mians till mediation has
been tried, 82 ; informs the
Princes of the Union that
he cannot send them aid,
150 ; writes to the Elector
Palatine on the subject,
152 ; refers to a message
sent to Dohna, 153
John George, Elector of Sax
ony, Doncaster's letter to
him, 127 ; his behaviour
towards the Elector Pala
tine, 136 ; he writes to Don
caster, 149
Mansfeld, Count Ernest, of
fered by the Duke of Savoy
to the Elector Palatine, 2;
proposed mission to Savoy,
5 ; defeated by the Impe.

rialists, 132, 157 ; his ac
tivity at Prague, 158
Matthias, Emperor, his deal
ings with the Bohemians,
65 ; death of, 58
Maurice, Landgrave cf Hesse
Cassel, his. letter to Don
caster, 203
Maximilian, Duke of Bavaria,
his letter to James I., 143;
his reception of Doncaster,
146
Meggau, Leonhard Helfried,
Baron of, his letter to Don
caster, 179
Netherlands, United Provinces
of the, negotiate with
Dohna, 44 ; send assistance
to Bohemia, 51 ; ask James
to join them in supporting
the Bohemians, 75
Nethersole, Francis, recom
mended by Doncaster for
advancement, 119
Norry, William, sent by Don
caster to Prague, 166; his
treatment by the Bohe
mians, 196
On'ate, the Count of, Doncas
ter's letter to him, 128 ;
his arrival at Frankfort,
177; his conference with
Doncaster, 188
Palatine, Elector; see Frede
rick V.
Philip III., King of Spain,
proposes that James shall
mediate in Bohemia, 4 ;
receives from Cottington the
acceptance of his proposal,
26 ; agrees to favour the
mediation, 36 ; thanks
James for sending Doncas
ter to Geimany, 114
Raleigh, Sir Walter, his in
tended escape from the
Tower, 10
Savoy, Duke of ; see Charles
Emmanuel
Spain, anxiety in, at the news
of the Bohemian revolution,
3 ; money sent from to
Germany, 12

212

INDEX.

Spain, King of; see Philip
III.
Spinola, Ambrosio Marquis of,
entertains Doncaster, 101
States General, see Nether
lands, United Provinces
op
Thurn, Matthias Count of,
protector of the Protestants
in Bohemia, 66; his attack
upon Vienna, 132, 158
Tilly, Count, meets Doncaster,
145
Trautmannsdorf, Baron, gives
Ferdinand's answer to Don
caster, 180

Union, Princes and States of
the, Assembly at Rothen-
burg, 8 ; their treaty with
England renewed, 38; their
answer to Wotton, 112 ;
their desire to form an al
liance with Venice, 143;
they ask James for assist
ance, 115
Veniee, apprehends danger
from Spain, 43, 49 ; is
ready to enter upon a
treaty with the Union, 50;
is urged by the Duke of
Savoy to assist the Elector
Palatine, 168

Wake, Sir Isaac, his mission
to Heidelberg and Turin,
75 ; passes through Brus
sels, 77; gives an account
of his visit to Heidelberg,
87 ; his negotiation with
the Duke of Savoy, 107,
167 ; communicates news
to the Elector Palatine,
172
Wotton,Sir"Henry, instructions
to, 46 ; named Ambassador
to Germany, 48 ; his nego
tiation at Ileilbronn, 112

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