The Marrow of Ecclesiastical History Part 2, Book 1 · Biography 10
Q: ELIZABETH
The life of Queen Elizabeth, who died Anno Christi, 1602.
KIng HENRY the eighth being divorced from Katherine of Spain, who was his brother Arthurs Widow, married the Lady Anne Bullen, a godly, vertuous, and charitable woman, who was delivered of this Lady, September 7. Elizabeth.Anno Christi 1533. whose Godfather was Archbishop Cranmer, and her Godmothers were, the old Dutchess of Norfolke, & the old Marchioness Her education.of Dorset. She was brought up in the Protestant Religion from her childhood, and had for her Schoolmaster, Mr. Ascham, who instructed her in the knowledge of the Tongues, and Arts; and under whom she profited very much in learning. During all the reigne of her Father King Henry, and of her brother King Edward, she lived in a Princely fashion: But under the reign of her sister Queen Mary, she met with so many afflictions, that she well deserved the title of Elizabeth the Confessor. Yet those very afflictions, through Gods goodnesse, did her so much Benefit of her affliction.good, that it's hard to say, whether she were more happy in having a Crown so soon, or in having it no sooner, till affliction had first laid in her a low and therfore sure foundation of humility, for Highness to be afterwards built upon. By which means she was so ripened for her future Rule and Soveraignty, that Pope Sixtus the fifth professed, that amongst all the Princes in Christendome, he found but two which were worthy to beare command, if they had not been stained with Heresie, viz. Henry the fourth, King of France; and Elizabeth, Queen of England. But as in order of time her Sufferings preceded her Soveraignty; so we will first set them down to the view of the Reader.
When Queen Mary came first to the Crowne, she Hypocrisiepretended much love to her sister, the Lady Elizabeth: for before she was crowned, she would goe no whither, but she would have her by the hand, and send for her to dinner and Supper: But after she was crowned, she kept her aloofe from her: and shortly after, upon the rising of Sir Thomas Wyat, she with the Lord Courtney, were falsly charged to have a hand in it: whereupon the Lady Marie sent three of her councellers, with two hundred and fifty horsemen of their retinue to her, then lying at her house at Ashbridge, who found her very sick in bed, and very feeble and weak of body: yet they going up to her chamber, willed one of her Ladies to tell her, that they were sent to her with a message from the Queene: Her grace being told of it, said, she was glad of their coming, howbeit being very weak and it now ten a Incivility of the Lords.clock at night, she requested them to come againe to her the next morning: to which they replyed, that they must needes see her, and would doe it in what case soever she were, and with all hastily rushed into her chamber, whereupon she being not a little amazed, said unto them, Is the hast such that it might not have pleased you to have staid till the morning, they answered, that they were sorry to see her in that case: and I (said she) am not glad to see you here at this time a night: they said that they came from the Queene, whose pleasure it was, that she should be at London the seventh of that monethmonth: whereunto she said, Truly there is no creature more glad then I to come to her Majesty, and am sorry that at this time I am not in case to wait on her, as you see, and may testifie: They said, they were sorry to see it: yet their commission was to bring her either quick, or dead: she being troubled at this, asked, if their commission was Popish malice.so strict: they said yea, and withall called two Physitians asking them if she might be removed with life, or noe? which they affirmed that she might in their judgement; thereupon they willed her to prepare against next morning at nine a clock to goe with them: And accordingly at that time they took her forth, faint and feeble as she was, being ready to Her great weaknesse.swoune three or foure times betweene them. That night they brought her to Redborn, where shee was guarded all night: The next day to St. Albanes, where she was both feeble in body, and comfortlesse …n minde. From thence to Mimmes, and Highgate, where she being very sick, they tarried that night, and the next day.
From thence she was carried to the Court, many people by the way flocking about her, and being very sorry to see her in that case. At Court she was presently Shee is made a prisoner.shut up, and kept a close prisoner for a fortnight, seeing no friend all that time. Then came Steven Gardiner, with nineteen more of the Privie Councell, charging her with Wyats conspiracy, which she utterly denied, protesting her innocency. But after long debating of the businesse, they told her, it was the Queens pleasure, she should go to the Tower. At which she being agast, said, she trusted the Queen would be more gracious to her; still protesting her innocency, and intreating them to mediate for her to the Queen; that seeing she was a true woman to her Majesty, both in thought, word, and deed, she might not be committed to so notorious and dolefull a place: protesting that she desired no favour, if she were found guilty of these things. But the Lords told her, there was no remedy, for that the Queen was fully resolved that she should goe to the Tower, and so they departed. And about an houre after, came Steven Gardiner again with three other of the Lords, and Popish malice.the Guard, secluding all her Gentlemen, Ladies and Gentlewomen from her; and in stead of them, appointed three of the Queenes men, and three other waiting women to attend her, that none should have accesse to her grace. They set also an hundred Northern Souldiers to watch in the Gardens all night, and two Lords with their Companies in the House. The Saturday following came two Lords to her, telling her, that she must presently goe to the Tower, the Barge being ready, and the Tide serving, which would tarry for no body.
Hereupon she with sorrow intreated them, that she might stay but till the next Tide: But one of them answered, that neither time nor tide must be delayed. Then she requested, that she might be suffered to write to the Queen before she went; but that also was denied her by one of them: but the other (the Earle of Sussex) kneeling down, said, she should have liberty to write, and as he was a true man, he would deliver it to the Queen, and bring her an answer, what ever came of it. And so the time and tide passed away; but they privily prepared all things for her going the next tide, which fell out at midnight: yet fearing lest she should be taken away, they stayed till next day, and then these two Lords came and told her, it was time for her to depart: She bade them goe before, and since there was no remedy, she would follow, adding, that she wondred what the Nobility meant, to suffer her to be led into captivity, the Lord knew whither, for she did not. She shot the bridge with some danger, the Boat striking upon the Her danger.ground. When she came to the Tower, she refused to land at the Traytors staires; neither could she land, but she must be over her shooes. But one of the Lords said, she should land there. Whereupon shee coming out of the Barge, said, Here lands as true a Imprisoned in the Tower.Subject, being a prisoner, as ever landed at these staires, and before thee, O God, I speak it, having no friends but thee alone.
At her landing stood many Warders, and others in order; What needs all this, said shee? Going a little further, she sate down on a cold stone to rest her selfe: Then the Lieutenant said, Madame, you sit unwholsomly, you had best come out of the rain. To whom she answered, I had better sit here then in a worse place; for God knoweth, I know not whither you will bring me. Hereupon her Gentleman Usher wept: To whom she said, What mean you to use me so? I took you for my comfort, not thus to dismay me, seeing I know my truth to be such, that none shall have cause to weep for me. And so she went in to prison; The doors were locked and bolted upon her, which much troubled her. Then she called to her Gentlewoman for her Book, desiring God not to suffer her to build her Her prayer.foundation upon the sands, but upon the Rock, that so no blustring stormes might prevaile against her.
Two dayes after, command came that shee should have Masse said in her Chamber. In the meane time there was much examining and racking of poor men, to force them to accuse her, that they might put her to death. And five dayes after came Steven Gardiner▪ with others of the Councell, and examined her very strictly about divers things: to whom she at last replyed, My Lords you doe sift me very narrowly, but well I am assured you shall not doe more to me then Her faith.God hath appointed, and so God forgive you all. About that time diverse of her servants, having provided her Diet, brought it to the Tower gate, where the rascally souldiers received it, which so grieved them, that they desired to speake with the Lieuetenant of the Tower, whom they beseeched, that they might not deliver her Graces food to such desperate ruffians, A churlish Nabal.but that they might carry it to her themselves: but he very churlishly refused, saying, a prisoner she is, and she shall be served as other prisoners are: they replyed, that they expected more favour from him, and perswaded themselves, that the Queene and her Councell would be better to her Grace then so: whereupon he sware by God, that if they either frowned, or shrugged at him, he would set the where they should neither see Sun nor Moone.
Thus taking their leave, they prayed God to make him of a better mind to their Mistris: Having thus continued in prison for a monethmonth, shee began to bee sickly, whereupon she requested the Lieuetenant that Popish cruelty.she might have liberty to walke out a little, but he denying her that favour, she requested, that at least shee might walke into the Queenes Lodgings, but still he pretended that he durst not permit it: Well then said she, if they be so strict, God comfort me: The next day the Lord Shandois came to her, and told her, that he had sued to the Councell for some liberty for her, and had at last obtained, that she might walke into those Lodgings, provided, that the windowes were kept shut, and that the L. Chamberlaine, and three of the Qs. women did attend her, for which she thanked him, and made use of that little liberty: Afterwards she had leave to walke into a little Garden, the doores being locked upon her, and the prisoners on that side Contentment.the house being straightly commanded not to speake, nor looke out at windowes, whilst she was there: for this she praysed God, and was well contented with it. During her imprisonment, a little boy foure yeares old, a mans child in the Tower, used sometimes to bring her some flowers, as he did to other prisoners: hereupon the boy, was sent for, and they promised him Figgs and Apples, and then asked him when hee was with the Lady Elizabeth; hee answered, every day: then they asked him, when hee was with the Lord of Devonshire, and what he sent by him to her Grace: the boy said, I will goe presently to him and know what he will send her: but upon this the Lieuetenant told him, he should be whipt, if hee came any more at them: But, said the boy, I will carry my Lady and mistris some more flowers: whereupon the childs father was commanded, that he should suffer him to goe noe more to their chambers: the next day her Grace walking in the garden, the boy peeped in at a hole, and said, Mistris I must bringe you noe more flowers: whereat she smiled, apprehending what the reason was: this so angred the Lieuetenant, that he commanded his father to put him out of the Tower: Shortly after, the Constable of the Tower was discharged, and Sir Henry Benefield put into his place, who brought with him one hundred souldiers, with which she was much troubled, and and asked, whether the Lady Ianes Scaffold was Her feare.yet taken away, fearing that she should have acted the same Tragedy. Then she enquired, what this Sir Henry Benefield was, and whether if her secret murthering was required, he was a man of that conscience to see it done. They answered, they knew not what he was; but they were perswaded, God would not suffer such wickednesse. Well, said she, God grant it: For thou, O God, canst mollifie such tyrannous hearts, and disappoint all such cruell purposes: And I Her prayer.beseech thee, to heare me thy creature, which am thy servant, and at thy command, trusting by thy grace ever so to remain.
Shortly after, she was told by the Lord Shandois, that she must be removed by the new Guard, but he knew not whither, except to Woodstock. This much She is removed to Wood stock.troubled her, desiring rather to stay there still, then to be led thence with such a sort of Rascals. But he told her, there was no remedy: Accordingly the Sabbath following, Sir Henry Benefield (being made her Jaylor) received her to his charge, with a company of Rake-hels for her Guard. The Lord of Tame also was joyned in commission with him: The first night they carried her to Richmond, where her owne attendance were removed into outward Chambers, and these rude Souldiers appointed to attend on her person.
Whereat she suspecting some mischiefe, called her Her fears.Ʋsher, desiring him with the rest, to pray for her: For this night (quoth she) I think to die. But he with many teares endeavoured to comfort her; and going down into the Court, hee met the Lord of Tame, and Sir Henry Benefield, walking there, and desiring to speak with the Lord apart, hee said to him, My Lord, you have alwayes been my good Lord, and so I beseech you to remain; I now desire your Honour unfainedly to tell me, whether any mischiefe be intended to her Grace this night, that I and my poore fellowes may A faithful servant.take such part as it shall please God to appoint: For certainly we will rather die then that she being innocent, should secretly miscarry. Mary (said the Lord) God forbid that any such wickednesse should bee wrought; and rather then it should be so, I and my men are ready to die at her feet also. And so through Gods mercy she passed that dolefull night with an heavie heart.
The next day, as she passed to Windsor, she spied some of her men standing in the way to see her: Wherupon she bade one about her to go to them, and to tell them, tanquam ovis, that she was led as a Sheep to the slaughter.
From Windsor she was carried to Mr. Dormers; and by the way some poore people presenting her A churlish Nabal.with some small trifles, Sir Henry Benefield was exceeding angry, calling them Rebels and Traytors, &c.
As she passed through some Townes, they rang the Bells, which so angred Benefield, that he sent his Souldiers for the Ringers, and set them in the stockes.
The next night she went to the Lord of Tames, where she was entertained in a very Princely manner. The Lord of Tames kindnesse to her.At which Benefield grunted and grumbled, saying, That they could not answer it, &c. But the Lord of Tame told him, that he knew what he did, and that her grace should be merry at his house.
The next day she went to Woodstocke, where she was imprisoned closely, the souldiers guarding both within, and with out the walls of the house day, and night: at last she was allowed to walk into the garden, which much refreshed her, yet all the doores were stricktly locked, Sir Henry himselfe keeping the Keies, whereupon she called him her jailor, but he desired her not to call him so, but one of her officers, to whom she answered; From such officers good Lord deliver me. After a time she made suit to the Councell, that she might have leave to write to the Queene, which at last was permitted, and Sir Henry Benefield brought her pen, ink, and paper, standing by whilst she wrote, and then requested that he might be the messenger to carry it: but she told him, she would send one of her owne servants with it: whereupon he replyed, that he thought none of them durst be so bold as to carry it, she being in that case: Yea (said she) I have none sodishonest as not to goe at my request.
Well (said he) my commission is to the contrary, and I may not suffer it. Her Grace replyed; you tell me oft of your commission, I pray God you may justly answer the cruell dealing that you use towards me. Yet he stopt her letters foure or five daies but at length sent for one of her Gentlemen, and asked him, if he durst be so bold as to carry her letter. Yea said he, that I dare, and will with all my heart: so with an ill will he gave him her letter: She being sickly the Queene sent two of her Physitians, to her▪ She is sickly.who staid foure, or fiue daies, till she began to amend, and then returned, reporting well of her mild behaviour, and humblenesse towards the Queene. About which time she was requested to submit her selfe to the Queenes Majesty: but she answered, that she would never submit to them, whom she had never offended, for said she, if I have offended, I craue no Popish malice.mercy, but the Law, which had I beene guilty of the breach of, I am sure I should have had it before this: About this time a Consultation being held Kinge of Spaines kindness to her.what should be done with her: One of the Lords said, that it would never be quiet with England, except her head were stricken off: whereunto the Spaniards God protects her from many dangersanswered: God forbid, that their King, and master should have a mind to consent to that mischiefe: and accordingly they perswaded their King, that he should never get so much honour, as by delivering the Lady Elizabeth out of prison, which at length he effected: Whilst she was at Woodstock, her life was oft in danger, first by fire kindling under her Chamber boards, which was verily supposed to be done on purpose, yet through Gods mercy, it was quenched: Also a ruffian, that was one of the keepers, was suborned to murther her, which the L. also discovered, and prevented: Also a darling of Steven Gardiners was sent to murther her, which was prevented by Sir Henry Benefields absence, who had commanded his brother to let no man whatsoever to come to her till his returned: Also whiles she was in the Tower, by Steven Gardiners procurement, a writ was sent for her execution, but the Lieuetenant presently going to the Queene with it, the Lord was pleased in mercy thereby to prevent the execution of it. At her departure out of Woodstock she wrote with a Diamond in the window.
Much suspected of me,
Nothing proved can be,
Quoth Elizabeth prisoner.
Whilst she was there, hearing a milke maide in the Park singing merrily, she wished her self a milkmaid, saying that her case was better, and life more merry then hers in that state as she was. When she was sent for from Woodstock, she was by Sir Henry Benefield carried in a tempestuous day to Ricot, by the way her hood was thrice blowne off, and she desiring to She wisheth her selfe a Milkmaidgoe to a gentlemans house hard by, Benefield would not suffer her, so that she was constrained under an hedge to trimme her head as well as she could: from thence shewas carried to Colebrook, and by the way Popish cruelty.some of her servants meeting of her, which had not seene her of a long time, they were not suffered to speake with her, but were charged in the Queens name presently to depart, to their mutuall sorrow; she was still surrounded and guarded with souldiers, and close shut up in her chamber, as in a prison: From thence she went to Hampton Court, where for a fortnight she was shut up, and guarded with souldiers as before: Then came to her the Lord William Howard, who used her very honourably: whereup-she requested him to be a means that she might speake with some of the privy Councell; and shortly after, Steven Gardiner with some others of them came to her, to whom she said My Lords I am glad to see you, me thinks I have beene desolatly alone a great while: wherefore I desire you to mediate to the King, and Queene, that I may be delivered from prison &c. Then Steven Gardiner requested her to submit herselfe to the Queene, and then he doubted not but she would be good to her: to whom she answered, that Her courage.rather then she would doe so, she would lie in prison all the daies of her life; for she craved no mercy, but rather the Law, in case she had offended: for (said she) if I should yield to this, I should confesse my selfe to be an offendor, and might give the King and Queene occasion to judge evill of me ever hereafter: and so the Lords departed. The next day came Gardiner againe, and told her, that the Queene marvelled that she carried her selfe so stoutly, not confessing that she had offended; and therefore the Queene had imprisoned her wrongfully: Nay (said she) it may please her to punish me as she sees good: Well (said Gardiner) you must tell an other tale before you be set at liberty: the good Lady answered, that she had as leive be in prison with truth, and honesty, as abroad, and suspected of her Majesty.
A week after the Queene sent for her at ten a She goes to the Queene.clock at night, whom she had not seene of two years before, and so she was conducted to the Queens bedchamber; when she came in, she kneeled downe, and prayed God to preserve her Majesty, not doubting but she should proue as true a subject to her as ever any did, desiring her Majesty so to esteem of her, for she should not find her otherwise, whatsoever report she heard to the contrary: the Queene answered, you will not confesse your offence, but stand stoutly to your truth: I pray God it may so fall out: If it doe not (said the L. Eliz.) I neither desire favour, nor pardon, &c. and so after such like discourse, she was sent away with little comfort from the Queene: yet a week after she was freed from Sir Henry Benefield her keeper, and his souldiers: whereupon she went to refresh her selfe in the Countrey: but the Queene sent with her Sir Thomas Pope, one of her Councellors, who watched her narrowly all Queene Maries daies: Shortly after came someof the New troubles.Queenes servants, and carried one of her Gentlewomen to the Fleet, and three others to the Tower, which much troubled her Grace: But it pleased God Steven Grdiner dies.about this time to take away by a remarkable judgment that cruel persecutor Steven Gardiner, whereby the life of this excellent Princesse was preserved: Queene Mary dies.and shortly after dropped away by degrees diverse other of her enemies, wherby her danger decreased, and safety, and comfort began to appeare, as light out of a darke cloud: At last also Queene Marie dyed, at which time the Parliament was sitting at Westminster: and the Lords being informed of it, they communicated it to the Commons, and so both joyned together presently in proclaiming Elizabeth Queene of England &c. She was now about fiue and twenty yeares old, and by experience, and adversitie had gotten wisdome aboue her age: the next day She is proclaimed Queene.after she was proclaimed Queene, she came from Hatfield to London, and lodged at the Charter house: the next day she went to the Tower: and in her passage had diverse speeches made to her, and other expressions of her Subiects joy, and if ever person had the gift, or skill to win the hearts of the people, it was this Queene, she coupled mildnesse with Majesty; & stooped, yet in a stately manner, to the meanest sort. Her Character.All her faculties were in motion, and every motion seemed a well-guided action: Her eye was set upon one, her eare listned to another, her judgement ran upon a third, to a fourth she addressed her speech: Her spirit seemed to be every where, and yet so intire in herselfe, that it seemed to be no where else. Some she commended, some she pitied, some she thanked; contemning none, neglecting none: and generally casting forth such courteous countenances, gestures, and speeches, that thereupon the people redoubled the testimonies of their joy, promising themselves much happinesse under the government of such a Queen.
She was of stature tall, slender, straight, and of an amiable countenance: her haire inclined to a pale yellow, her fore-head large and faire, a seemly seat for Princely grace; her eyes lively, her nose somewhat rising in the middest, the whole compasse of her countenance somewhat long, but yet of admirable beauty.
In life she was most innocent, in desires moderate, in purpose just, of spirit above credit, and almost above the capacity of her Sex: of a Divine wit, as well for depth of judgement, as for quick conceit, and speedy expedition; very eloquent, of wonderfull knowledge both in learning and affaires: skilfull in Greek, Latine, and divers other forraigne languages.
She was very religious, magnanimous, mercifull, and just: She maintained justice at home, and Armes abroad, with great wisdome and authority; She desired those that repaired to her, if they would not be deceived in her, that they would not be the first to deceive themselves; that they would not prejudice her by immoderate expectations and hopes, promising to themselves out of a sudden liking, more then was fit, or peradventure possible to be performed: And lastly, that they would not rashly judge of her actions, as being privy neither to the occasions nor ends of them.
After some stay at the Tower, she removed to Sommerset house: She continued all the Councellors left by the deceased Queen; and to ballance them equally, Her Councellors.being Papists, she chose divers Protestants to joyn with them; and knowing that sudden alterations are dangerous, she did by degrees abolish Popery, Popery abolished by degreesand established the reformed Religion: then she summoned a Parliament. When she took Coach in the Tower, shee made a solemne thankesgiving to God, who had delivered her no lesse mercifully, and mightily, from her imprisonment in that place, then Daniel from the Lions Den: that had Her thanksgiving.delivered her from those dangers wherewith she was environed, and overwhelmed, to bring her to the joy and honour of that day.
As she passed through the City, the Recorder presented her with a curious purse, wherein were a thousand Markes in gold, desiring that she would be a gracious Mistresse to the Citie: She answered, that she was bound so to be, not for their gold, but for their good wills: And that as they had expended treasure to honour her, so she would be ready not onelyonly to spend her treasure, but the dearest drops of her blood to maintaine and increase their flourishing estate.
A Child from a Pageant let down in a silken lace, an English Bible richly covered to her: She kissed her She receives a Bible.hands, took it, kist it, laid it to her breast, then held it up, thanking the Citie, especially for that gift, and promising to be a diligent reader of it. She cheerfully received Nosegayes, Flowers, Rosemary from mean persons.
The Sabbath following, she was crowned at Westminster: then she appointed a publick disputation there, about matters of religion; but the Popish Disputants A disputation appointed.shewed themselves so crosse, and froward in it, that it came to nothing.
King Philip hearing of the death of his wife Queen Mary, he sent an Embassadour to propose his marriage King of Spain wooes her.with her, promising to get a dispensation from the Pope. This much troubled her, considering his quality, and how much he had deserved of her, and yet now she must reject his suit: Wherefore she resolved publickly to make profession of her Religion, and to hasten the Reformation, as the onelyonly meanes to take him off. In the Parliament was enacted, That Reformation of religion.the Lady Elizabeth was, and ought both by the Law of God, the common Law of England, and the Statute Law, to be the lawfull and undoubted Queen of England, &c. The Sacrament was appointed to bee used in both kindes, and divers such like Lawes for establishing the Protestant Religion. Then she concluded a peace with the French King.
The Commons by their Speaker, endeavoured to perswade her to marriage from many politick grounds. To whom she answered, That at at her Coronation Her answer concerning marriageshe had solemnly with a Ring espoused her selfe to the Kingdome, And (said she) every one of you, and every true Englishman, are my children, and kinsmen: But if God shall please, that I shall enter into another course of life, I promise you, that I will doe nothing that shall be prejudiciall to the Common wealth, &c. And to me it shall be full satisfaction, if when I have left my last breath, it be engraven on my Tomb, Here lies ELIZABETH, which reigned a Virgin, Her Mottoand died a Virgin.
By means of the alteration of Religion, this Kingdome became the most free of all the Kingdomes in Christendome, the Scepter being freed from servitude to the Pope: and more wealthy then formerly, an infinite Masse of money being staid at home, which was wont to be exported to Rome. She oft used to say, That the Common-wealth might be in safety, shee was never without care. Her Motto was, Semper eadem, Alwayes the same. Her study was, as to reform, so to establish the reformed Religion. When forraigne Princes interceded to her in the behalfe of the Papists, she answered, That they must not expect from her such things, as she could not grant with Toleration denied.the safety of her Kingdome, and without wrong to her own honour and, conscience.
The King of France, notwithstanding his late made peace with her, yet levied great Forces of Horse and Foot, to be transported into Scotland: But whilst he breathed out nothing but blood, and slaughter against King of France his death.the Protestants, by Gods just hand his owne blood was spilt at the Nuptiall solemnities of his daughter, and sister.
About this time Religion was reformed in Scotland, Religion reformed in Scotland.which the Queen Regent much impugned; and for that end made use of French Souldiers to suppresse the Protestant Nobility, and others. Whereupon they sued to Queen Elizabeth for aid, and she enquired into their ends, which they proposed, which they professed were to advance the glory of Christ, the sincere preaching of Gods Word, the rooting out of Superstition, and Idolatry, and to preserve their ancient liberty against the oppression of strangers.
After the Queen had seriously considered all things, it was resolved, That the professors of the She relieves the Reformerssame Religion were to be relieved, and the French to be driven out of Scotland. Hereupon the Queen sent Mr. Winter with a Fleet into Edinburgh Frith, who set upon the French Ships of Warre, and upon one of their Garrisons. And the Duke of Norfolke was sent to Batwick, unto whom resorted many of the Scottish Nobility, where many Articles were agreed upon betwixt them. After which the Queen sent an Army into Scotland, consisting of one thousand two hundred Horse, and six thousand Foot, under the Lord Grey, a brave Souldier: They first besieged Leith; the French issued forth and skirmished Leith besieged.with them, but were beaten in againe. The siege continuing, the King of France sent to Queen Elizabeth, to treat of a peace; which at last was concluded, and proclaimed in the Camp, and Towne. Peace concluded.Hereby the ancient liberty of Scotland was retained, the dignity of England preserved, and the Scottish Protestants acknowledged our Queen Defendresse of their happinesse.
Shortly after, the Queen set forth a Proclamation, whereby she commanded the Anabaptists, and such like Heretickes, which had flocked to the Coast Heretickes banished.Townes of England from the parts beyond the Sea, (under colour of shunning persecution, and thereby had spread their poisonous opinions in England) to depart the Realm within twenty dayes, upon pain of imprisonment, and losse of goods.
The Abby of Westminster she converted to a Collegiat Westminster reformed.Church; instituting to Gods glory, and the increase of good learning, a Dean, twelve Prebends, a Schoolmaster, Usher, and fourty Scholars, six whereof at least are preferred to the Universities yearly, twelve Almesmen, &c. Money, which King Henry the eighth had embased, she restored to its just value.
Anno 1561. the Scottish Queen deferred the confirmation of the aforementioned Treaty: Whereupon the Queen sent into Scotland, to exhort the Nobility to mutuall amity, which is firmly founded in the unity of Religion.
Shortly after, the Scottish Queen, being now a Widow, and in France, sent to Queen Elizabeth for leave to passe into Scotland upon a safe conduct: Which she refused to grant, because she had not, according to her faith given, confirmed the aforenamed Treaty. But yet in a great fogge, shee passed by the English Ships, and so got into Scotland.
About this time the Pope endeavoured to perswade her, to send some to the Councell of Trent, for the taking away of dissentions in Religion, &c. Whereunto she answered, That she heartily wished for an She disclaims the Councell of Trent.Oecumenicall Councell, but to a Popish Councell she would not send, with the Bishop of Rome she had nothing to doe, whose authority was expelled out of England by consent of her Estates: Neither belonged it to him, but to the Emperour, to call Councels, nor would she acknowledge any greater authority in him, then in any other Bishop.
About this time the Spire of Pauls Steeple, which Pauls steeple burnt.was five hundred and twenty foot from the ground, and two hundred and sixty from the square Steeple, being framed of Timber, and covered with lead, was set on fire by lightning; and in five houres space, it was quite consumed, together with the roof of the Church: But by the Queenes bounty, and other large contributions, the roofe was soon repaired again.
Anno 1562. the Protestants in France being persecuted, She assists the Protestants in France.and oppressed by the Popish party, sent to the Queen of England, desiring aid from her: And after mature deliberation, she took into her protection the French Kings subjects in Normandy, contracting with the Prince of Conde, and other Noble men, to pay them an hundred thousand Angels, and to send them over into France, six thousand men. And the same day she published a Declaration, that she sent not her Army into Normandy to recover that Countrey, which anciently belonged to the Kings of England, but to preserve it for the French King, being not yet at age, and to defend it against the Guises, who had exercised barbarous cruelties against the Protestants, whom she could not neglect, without betraying her own Religion, security, and safety.
And shortly after, she sent over Forces under the Earle of Warwicke, to New-Haven: And the Queens Ships scouring the Seas, brought in many rich prizes.
Anno 1563. another parliament was holden at A Parliament.Westminster; where, amongst other good Lawes, it was ordained, that the Bible, and Service should be translated into the Welsh tongue. The yeare Her entertainmēt at Cambridg,after, the Queen in her progresse, went to Cambridge, where she was entertained with all kinds of honour, and with Comedies, Tragedies, and Scholasticall Disputations: She surveyed every Colledge, and in a Latine Oration she acknowledged their love, and kindnesse, commending their multiplicity of learning, exhorting them to bend their whole mindes, and studies to the improvement thereof; promising to be a Patronesse to them therein.
Anno 1566. she went to Oxford also, where she And Oxford.was magnificently entertained: There she stayed seven dayes, being much delighted with the pleasantnesse of the place, and beautifulnesse of the Colledges; and the wits, and excellent learning of the Students: She gave them large thankes in a Latine Oration, with singular sweetnesse of speech, and so bade them heartily fare-well.
Anno 1568. some godly Ministers sought earnestly A further reformation desired.for a reformation of our Church, for abolishing of Episcopacy, & for the setling of the Presbyteriall government in this Kingdome. But by the power of the Bishops with the Queen, they were imprisoned; yet had they many that concurred with them in judgement; which by the Prelaticall party were branded with the odious name of Puritanes.
About this time the Queen of Scots fled into England, and by the advice of the Privy Councel, was here detained.Queene of Scots imprisoned.
Also Pope Pius Quintus suborned one Robert Ridolph, a Florentine, who had lived a Factor in London a long time, to stirr up the Papists in England against Treason by the Popes meanes.Q. Elizabeth, which he most zealously, and closly prosecuted: yet the Lord prevented him: Also there was much underhand dealing, that the Duke of Norfolk might marry the Queene of Scots, & set her at liberty, whereupon she was removed out of the North (being a Popish countrey) to Tidbury Castle, under the custody of George Earle of Shremesbury: Persecution in France.Queene Elisabeth used great care for the safety of religion both at home, and abroad; and whereas in France edicts were published (contrary to the former Our Queene mediates for them.agreement) whereby the exercise of the reformed religion was utterly forbidden, the professors of it removed from all publick offices, and the Ministers of the word commanded to depart the Realme by a day prefixed, our Queene by her Embassador Norris earnestly solicited the King of France, that a sound and sincere peace might be made, advising the King, that he would not by unseasonable remedies incense his subjects minds, & that aboue all things She relieves the protestants.he would beware of those, which by rooting out his faithfull subjects, sought to weaken his Kingdom, that it might become a prey to others: but when he would not hearken to her Counsell, lest she should faile those that were joined with her in one common cause, shee sent one hundred thousand Angells, and munition for warr to the Protestants: she also entertained curteously such French Protestants, as fled into England, as also the Netherlanders, many of whom came hither also to withdraw themselves from the cruelty of the Duke de Alva, who breathed forth nothing but blood and death against them: and shortly after picking a quarrel with our Queene, he prohibited all commerce with the English, and commanded that nothing should be brought in, or carried forth of the Netherlands by the English: He also appointed searchers, amongst whom there was none so active, as one Iohn Story an English fugitive, who had before consulted with a Magician against the Queens life, and had provoked the Duke Story executed.de Alva to invade England but being allured with a wile into a ship, they presently hoised saile, and brought him hither, where he was afterwards executed for his treason.
About this time many rumors brake forth, that the Earles of Northumberland and Westmerland (zealous Papists) were raising a rebellion in the North, whereupon the Queene sent to them, to come up to London, and Northumberland was partly minded so to doe, but his friends and followers beseeched him, Treason in the Norh.that he would not faile them, nor the religion of his fathers: telling him, that the Catholicks were prepared all over England to assist him: that some were coming out of Scotland, others out of the Netherlands from the Duke de Alva to joine with him, whereupon he going to the Earle of Westmerland: they brake out into open rebellion, publishing these pretences: That they took Arms with no other intent, but that the religion of their forefathers might be restored, corrupt councellors removed from the Queene the Duke of Norfolk and other Knights that were put from their ranks, might be restored to liberty and grace: and that they attempted nothing against the Queen, to whom they vowed themselves now▪ and ever dutifull and obedient subjects.Popish profanenesse.
Their first march was to Durham, where they rent and trampled under feet English Bibles in as great a contempt as Iehoiakim did Ierem'ys rowle. At Darington they besprinkled the Army with holy water, and at Rippon they heard Masse to forward their treason: their Ensigne was the Crosse and fiue wounds of Christ: At Brampton Moore they mustered a thousand six hundred horse, and foure thousand foot, with which they fell upon Barnards Castell, which after eleven daies siege was yeelded to them: hereupon they were proclaimed Traitors, the Pope promised a hundred thousand Crownes to advance this designe, but before they received the money, the Earle of Sussex, Lieutenant Generall of the North, gathered some forces, and pursued them, whereupon the chiefe of them fled into Scotland to the popish party there, not bidding their deluded Traitors overthrown.followers farewell, who were presently surprized without resistance, and the ringleaders of them were executed by Marshall Law: Yet presently after Leonard Dacres began a new rebellion, and raised many New Treasonto revenge their friends death, but the Lord Hunsdon hasting against them, after a long and desperate fight, put them to flight, Dacres escaping into Scotland, and leaving his followers to the Law: Northumberland in Scotland was taken by the Regent, imprisoned, and afterwards sent into England, where (being attainted by the Parliament) he was beheaded at Northumberland beheaded.Yorke. The Earle of Westmerland, by Gods revenging hand, in the very time of his rebellion, was deprived of his Children; and afterwards wandring himselfe Gods judgement on traytors.in strange Countries, had his body consumed with venemous ulcers, whereof he died.
About that time, Pope Pius Quintus, at the instance of Nicolas Morton, an English Priest, sent forth his Bull against the Queen, whereby he deprived her of The Popes Bull.all Princely authority, as one uncapable of the Crown, or Government. Then were his Emissaries sent forth, some plotters of invasions, to lay our land wast; others, conspirators against her sacred person: And the Popes Bull was brought to London, and in the night time hung upon the Gates of the Bishops Palace by Pauls. Yet in the middest of these broiles at home, she failed not to relieve the Protestants of She relieves the French Pro…estants.France, who were in a most distressed state: And she exhorted all the Princes of the same profession, to take upon them the defence of the common Cause. The Queen of Navarre she supplied with monies, taking Jewels in pawne for it. She permitted Henry Champnour to lead into France and hundred voluntary Gentlemen upon Horsebacke, who were very serviceable to the Protestant party. Not long after were executed Sherwin, Campion, Kirby, for dispersing Traytors executed. God plagues them.& promoting the Popes Bull against the Queen. And Sanders, the Popes Legate in Ireland to raise rebellion, fell mad, and wandred succourlesse in the wast mountaines, where he miserably died.
Then John Summervile of Ederston in Warwickeshire, Summerviles treason.came to the Court, (provoked thereto by one Hall, a Seminary Priest) with a purpose to murder the Queen; but God discovering his treason, hee was committed to Newgate, where he desperatly hanged him selfe.
Many Priests and Jesuits repaired into England in the attire of Gallants, dispersing themselves, and endeavouring to withdraw the subjects from their allegaince: some of which were taken and executed, as Campion, &c.
Then Francis Throgmorton, solicited thereto by Throgmortons treason.Mendoza the Spanish Embassadour, undertooke to sound the Havens for the enemies entrance; to get a Catalogue of all the Popish Gentlemen in every County, that would assist: But God discovering his treason, he was apprehended, & in his study the catalogue was found, and the Havens for landing, &c. for which he was worthily executed.
Then one William Parry (whose life the Queen had Parry's treason.formerly spared, when he was justly condemned for burglary) vowed her death: and for this end, he went to the Queen, desiring to speak with her, and oft-times after having weapon, place, presence, and opportunity, intending resolutely to kill her, was ever daunted when he beheld the glory of her presence, and majesty in her face. Yet afterwards, reading Allens book, he was so fired with zeale, that he posted to a Gentleman, whom he thought as discontented as himselfe, opening his treason for the bringing in of forraigne invaders, and threatning with Dagge or Dagger, to kill the Queen: but the Gentleman revealing it to two privy Councellors, he was apprehended, and confessing his treason, was worthily executed. Hereupon her Majesty in a Parliament openly professed, that she knew no Creature breathing, whose life stood hourly in more perill then her owne: And that even at her first entrance into her estate, she entred into infinite dangers of life, as one that had to wrestle with many and mighty enemies; God protects his own.yet was she confident of her heavenly Fathers protection, &c.
Shortly after, as she was upon the Thames in her Barge with the French Embassador, and some others, a Serving-man with his Caleiver shot a bullet, which pierced both the armes of one of the Water-men; within six foot of the Queen: With which all in the Courage.Barge were astonished; but she being undaunted, and seeing the man bleed, threw him her scarfe, and with words of comfort, bade him be of good cheere, he should never want: for the bullet was aimed at her, though it hit him: yet afterwards knowing that it was done casually, she both pardoned the party, and commanded his master to keep him still in his service. She was of such singular clemency, that she never Clemency.heard of the capital punishment of offenders, even of such as had sought her own death, but it bred horror, and sorrow in her; so that had not her Councellors earnestly inculcated the necessity of such exemplary Justice, many dangerous attempts had escaped their due punishment, which moved her to say, that her reading of Seneca de clementia, had done her much good; but some would perswade her, it had done her State as much harm.
Her love to her people in generall, and tender care over the poorer sort, and oppressed, was incomparable: Her eares were alwayes open to their complaints, Love to her people.and her hands open to receive their petitions; and her manner was, alwayes to commend their causes to her-Councell, and Judges, to whom she used to say: Have care of my people, you have my place, doe Her charge to the Judges.you to them that which I ought to doe: they are my people, yet every one oppresseth and spoileth them without mercy: they can neither help themselves, nor revenge their quarrell: See to them, I pray you, see to them, for they are my charge; them therefore I charge you with as God hath committed them to me: I care not for my selfe, my life is not deare unto me; my care is for my people. If you knew my care for my people, you might discerne, that I take no great joy in wearing the Crowne, &c.
Anno 1585. Henry Percy, Earle of Northumberland, was gone so farre in disloyall practices against her, that he was committed to the Tower; whereby Northumberland kills himselfe.discharging a Dagge with three bullets under his left pap, he pierced his heart, and presently died.
Also Philip, Earle of Arundel, and Sir John Perat, late Deputy of Ireland, for plotting with Spain against the Queen, were imprisoned in the Tower; where, by course of nature, they ended their lives.
Then Anthony Babington, Esquire, and thirteene Babington and his complices.more, whereof one was a Seminary Priest, conspired against her, whereof seven of them undertooke to murther her: They held intelligence also with forraign Powers to invade the Realm; and with many Papists, in most parts of the Kingdome. But the Priest going to the Spanish Embassador Mendoza, to signifie that all things were now ready, was suddenly apprehended, and imprisoned: whereupon Babington and two others of them resolved immediately to kill the Queene: bu… (God protecting her) he was intercepted, and imprisoned, from whence he escaped, and intending to fly the land disguised himselfe by colouring his face and hands with walnuttree leaves, yet (through Gods mercy) he was discovered, apprehended, and brought to the Tower: the other conspirators hereupon dispersed themselves: yet were met with, and examined, who confessed their treasons, and were deservedly condemned, and executed: Then Stanly an English Fugitiue, suborned Stanly's treason-Patrick Cullen for thirtie pound to kill the Queene: yet God discovering his treason, he was apprehended and executed: Then Roderick Lopez a Physitian about her Majesty, was corrupted to give her poison in her Physick, and for that end had a Iewell of gold garnished with a great Diamond, and Lopez his treason.large Ruby given him, and fifty thousand Crownes promised when he should effect it: But Gods mercy brought to light the conspiracy: So that Lopez coming with his poisonous Physick to the Queene, she told him, he must goe to the Lord Treasurer Cecill, who had more need of Physick then she, whereupon he went to him with all diligence, to whom the old man said, what is your Physick Master Doctor: a Purge said Lopez: I think, said the Lord Cecill, I must be a Physitian to purge you, and so apprehended him for a Traitor, then other Doctors examining the ingredients, easily found that the potion was poison, for which he suffered death at Tyburne as he deserved.
Then two other English fugitives, York & Williams souldiers by profession, and desperate Papists, Yorke and Williams treason.were suborned to kill her, oaths of secresie administred to them by a Priest, who sent them away with his blessing: they came into England with a purpose to get entertainment with some great Courtier to further their designe, but their Treason being found out, they were condemned, and dyed like Traitors: Squires treason.Then one Squire, who belonged to the Queens stable, was hired to poison the pummell of her saddle: and by a Iesuit he was thus encouraged: God blesse thee, and give thee strength, my sonne, be of good courage, I pawne my soul for thine, and thou shalt have my prayers dead and alive: and thereupon he delivered him the poison, directed him how to apply it; and afterwards the Queene being to ride abroad, he pressed out the poison upon the Pummell of her saddle a little before she gat up, yet Gods wonted and wonderfull protection appeared; for though the season was hot, and her veines & pores open to receive any malignant tainture, yet her bodie felt no distemper, nor her hand more hurt then Pauls did when he shaked off the venemous viper: then with the same poison he anointed the pummels of a wodden chaire, wherein the Earle of Essex sate, purposing to destroy him also, but the Lord prevented the operation, as he did to the Queene: Hereupon the Iesuit suspecting Squires falshood: because the act was not done, sent information against him into England, whereupon he was committed to prison, and examined, who confessing all, was Worthily executed.
The Duke of Norfolk, who was prisoner in the Tower about the Queene of Scots, was after triall Duke of Norfolk executed.condemned, and executed: Anno 1572. the Regent of Scotland sent to her to crave aide, for the defence of the young King and countrey, endangered by Civill She relieves Scotland.broiles, whereupon the Queene sent him a thousand fiue hundred men, under Sir Wilam Drury, who Roiall exchange built.besieged the Castle of Edenborough held by some rebells, took it in, and so returned into England. The same yeare Sir Thomas Gresham built the royall Sir Francis Drake compasses the world.exchange for the commerce of Merchants. Anno 1577. Sir Francis Drake sailed about the world, returning anno 1580, to the great honour of the Queene Stukelies rebellion in Irelandand the English nation, being the first that ever attempted and performed such an enterprize.
Anno 1583 the Pope and King of Spaine joined together to send men and money, under Thomas Stukely into Ireland to stirr up rebellions there: but the Lord Grey, Deputy of Ireland quickly slew and took them prisoners: & Stukley, haunted with the Gods judgment on Desmondfuries of his owne conscience, died miserably. Also the Earle of Desmond, that had joined in the rebellion, wandring in the woods, was at last slaine by a common souldier: About this time the States of the Lowcountries joyning together to free themselves from the Spanish tyranny, sought to our Queene to be their protectresse: she permitted them to carry over many English volunteeres, and promised to mediate peace betwixt them and the King of Spaine, & so dismissed them well satisfied: but presently after Don John of Austria oppressing of them, they sued againe to the Queene, that by her meanes, they might enjoy the ancient priviledges of their provinces, and freedome of conscience from the Spanish inquisition, and by their lamentable complaints, they so prevailed with the pittifull Queene, that she sent into Spaine, to intreate the King to redresse their grievances; but hee She lends mony to the Hollanders.being deafe to that request, and planting his Garisons very suspitiously, she agreed with the States, and lent them an hundred thousand pound for their reliefe, Anno 1581. Francis Valois the K. of France his brother, came into England to woe our Queene; but she desiring to doe nothing that might grieve her subjects, after Princely entertainement dismissed him: shortly after the Prince of Orange being murthered, the She undertakes the defence of the Netherlands.States sued to her againe for reliefe and protection, and her Councell upon debate, resolved that for defence of the Gospell, and the professors of it, her Majesty ought to accept of the offer, and thereupon she undertooke to be their defender, but would not take the title of Soveraigne Lady thereof, which they would have setled upon her and her heires: then was Sir John Norris sent over with five thousand foot, and one thousand horse at her Majesties pay, for security whereof Flushing, Brill, and the Ramekins were delivered to her Majesties use, Anno 1585. This Philip of Spaine tooke very ill, and published Mendoza's Treason.two false Libells against her, whereunto shee returned a printed answer: Then Mendoza the Spanish Lieger Embassadour practized to bring in forraigne forces for the invasion of this Land, but the Lord prevented him.Eale of Leicester sent into the Netherlands.
Then the Queene sent Robert Dudley Earle of Leicester with a braue traine into the Low Countries, where he was joyfully, and honourably entertained, and the States tooke their oath to the Queene: Leicester presently attempted the taking in of Zutphen, where happened a fierce encounter betweene the English Sir P. Sidney slaine.and Spaniards, in which the brave Sir Philip Sidney, as he changed his horse, was shot with a musket bullet aboue the knee, which so shattered the bone of his thigh, that he died thereof twenty fiue daies after; yet the English tooke in a Sconse York and Stanley traitors.neere Zutphen; whereof Leicester made Rowland Yorke Governour, as also Sir William Stantley Governour of Deventer, contrary to the minde of the States; and these two men traiterously sold the places to the Spaniards presently after, which made the States very jealous of the English. Then was the Earle of Leicester Anno 1587. Q. of Scots beheaded.sent for back into England; and about that time, the Queene of Scots was beheaded at Fotheringhay Castle. In Leicesters absence, his officers, and souldiers grew very unruly, whereupon the States chose Maurice of Nassaw their Governour, yet Leicester returned into Holland, but the differences Betwixt him, and the states growing higher, the Queene caused him to resigne his Government, and returne popish perfidiousnesse.for England. Anno 1588 the Spaniard prepared for to invade England, yet held a treaty for peace, the better to make the Queene secure. His preparations were extraordinary, as may appeare by this list of his Navie.the Spanish navie.
The Admirall Galleon of St. Martins of 1000 Tunn, 177 marriners, 300 souldisrs, 50 Cannon &c.
Galleon of St. Iohns of 1070 Tunn, 160 Marriners, 231 Souldiers, 50 Cannon &c.
Galleon of St. Mark, of 792 Tunn, 117 Mariners, 292 Souldiers &c.
Galleon of St. Phillip, of 800 Tunn, 117 Marriners, 415 Souldiers, 40 pieces of Artillery.
Galleon of St. Lewis, of 830 Tunn, 116 Mariners, 376 Souldiers, 40 Gunns.
Galleon of St. Matthew, of 750 Tunn, 50 Marriners, 177 Souldiers, 40 Gunns.
Galleon of St. Iames, of 520 Tunn, 100 Marriners, 300 Souldiers, 30 Gunns.
Galleon of Florence, of 961 Tunn, 100 Marriners, 300 Souldiers, 52 Gunns.
Galleon of St. Christopher, of 352 Tunn, 90 Marriners, 300 Souldiers, 30 Gunns.
Galleon of St. Bernard, of 352 Tunn, 100 Marriners, 280 Souldiers, 30 Gunns.
1 Zabra of 166 Tunn, 55 marriners, 55 Souldiers, 13 Gunns.
2 Zabra of 166 Tunn, 50 Marriners, 60 Souldiers &c
Ship of St. Angell, of 768 Tunn, 114 Marriners, 323 Souldiers, 30 Cannon.
The Gangrin of 1160 Tunn, 100 Marriners, 300 Souldiers 36 Cannon.
St. Iames of 660 Tunn, 102 Marriners, 250 Souldiers, 30 Gunns.
Conception of 468 Tunn, 70 Marriners, 100 Souldiers, 20 Cannon.
2 Conception of 418 Tunn, 70 Marriners, 164 Souldiers, 24 Gunns.
Magdalen of 330 Tunn, 70 Marriners, 200 Souldiers, 22 Gunns.
St. Iohn of 350 Tunn, 80 Marriners, 130 Souldiers, 24 Gunns.
Mary of 165 Tunn, 100 Marriners, 180 Souldiers, 24 Gunns.
Manuell of 520 Tunn, 54 Marriners, 130 Souldiers, 16 Gunns.
Mary of 707 Tunn, 50 Mariners, 220 Souldiers, 30 Gunns; besides diverse others.
They had in all 130 ships of 57808 Tunn, 8450 Mariners, 19295 Souldiers, 2088 Slaves: 2630 Cannon, 7000 Muskets: 10000 Halberds, and Partizans: 100000 quintals of Biscuits: 147000 Pipes of wine: 6500 quintalls of Bacon, 3000 quintalls of Cheese. Besides fish, rise, banes, Pease, Oile, Vineger, &c. 12000 Pipes of fresh water. The Army cost every day 30000 Ducats: the Generall was the Duke of Medina Sidonia: there were in it 100 Friers: Physicians, Chirurgeons, Apothecaries, and foure and twentie noblemen volunteers: this navy was by them stiled the Invincible Armado: and had the blessing of the Pope along with it: To encounter with it, the Queene first appointed Generall Fasting and prayer publickly Fasting and Prayer.through the land: then she sent forth under Charles Howard Lord Admirall▪ and under Sir Francis Drake vice Admirall a hundred ships, as also forty little ships under Henry Lord Seimer lay about Dover: as the former lay at Plimmouth: in all our fleet were but three and twenty of the Queenes great ships: the rest were little ones.
The Prince of Parma in the Netherlands was to joyne with the Spanish Navie, and had prepared for that end two hundred and ten bands of old Souldiers, a hundred in each band, and foure thousand nine hundred horse for land service. In the English Fleet were but twelve thousand Marriners and Souldiers: July the 20. Anno 1588 the Spanish Navie came within the sight of England: and they were so confident of success, that they spared for no cost, intending that England should pay the reckoning. Besides what was mentioned before, they had 220000 great shot. Of Powder foure thousand two hundred quintals, every quintall containing an hundred weight. Of lead for bullets, a thousand quintals, of Match, a thousand two hundred quintalls; with murthering peeces, double Canons for battery: Field peeces for the Campe, with store of furniture for carriages, Mules and Horses: they had stoore of Torches, Hides, and Lead, to stop leakes, Whippes and butchering knives: The Army in all was thirty two thousand strong. The Prince of Parma provided 70 flat bottom'd boats, every one able to beare 30 horses for transportation, with bridges ready made to ship and unship them: Store of Piles sharpened at the ende with iron pikes to pile up the mouthes of Rivers; twenty thousand empty casks with cords, & other furniture fit to make floating bridges to stop up havens, &c. Towards this expedition the Pope sent out his Crusado, and contributed a million of gold: Our Queene besides her Navy, prepared a land Army under the Earle of Leicester Lievetenant Generall, which met at Tilbury in Essex, consisting of twenty two thousand foot, and one thousand five hundred Tibury Campe.Horse: her selfe like another Deborah, was Generall of the Army: the first of the Spanish Shipps, which fell into our hands was a great Galleon, which having lost her foremast, lagged behind the rest, whereupon Drake takes a Galleon.Drake sent to command them to yeeld, otherwise his bullets should force them to it; but Valdez answered, that they were 450. strong, and himselfe Don Pedro, and therefore expected honorable conditions; Drake replyed, that he had no leasure to parly, if they would yeeld presently, do it; otherwise they should prove that Drake was no dastard: as soone as they heard that terrible name of Drake, they presently yeelded: in the ship they found fifty five thousand Ducats, which they shared merrily amongst them, whilst the Armado lay at anchor neere Callis, the English Eight Fire ships.emptied eight ships, filled them with Gun-powder, pitch, brimstone, &c. which in the night they let drive with the winde towards the Spanish Fleet, which so frighted them with horrible feare, lest their ships should be fired, that they cut their Cables, and fled in such hast and confusion, that their greatest Galliasse fell foule on another ship, whereby shee was Spaniards beaten.taken by the English, and in her a rich booty; in briefe, God fighting from heaven by the winds against them, and prospering the English in their little nimble shippes, this Invincible Armado was so shattered, torne, dispersed, &c. that they came short home eighty one of their ships, and thirteene thousand, five hundred, and odd of their men. So that there was no famous and great Family in all Spaine, which in this expedition lost not a son, brother, or kinseman: Thanksgiving.Hereupon this Religious Queene caused publick thanksgiving to bee celebrated to the Lord of Hosts Concerning this wonderfull deliverance, Mr. Samuell Ward made these verses.
Octogesimus Octavus, mirabilis annus,
Clade Papistarum, faustus vbique pijs.
In Eighty eight Spaine arm'd with potent might
Against our peacefull land came on to fight.
The Windes, and Waves, and Fire in one conspir
To helpe the English, frustrate Spaines desire.
Queene Elizabeths fame was so advanced hereby, that Don Antonio, the expulsed King of Portugall came to her for reliefe, who granted it to him: shortly after the King of France, Henry the third, being murthered Don Antonio seekes reliefe.by a Jacobin Frier, the Guisian faction leagued together to keepe out Henry of Burbon, King of Navar, and next heire to the Crowne of France, from succeding in that Kingdome, because he was a protestant: hereupon he craved aid of our Queene to settle him in his throne, which she granted in respect of the common cause of Religion, and first sent him over two thousand pound in mony, Armes, ammunition, &c. then she sent him some ships: then a brave Army She helps the King of Franceunder the Lord Willoughby, then three thousand foot under Sir Iohn Norris: then an other Army under the Earle of Essex: all which stood him in great stead, and much forwarded his advancement to the Crowne: Afterwards she prepared, and sent forth a gallant Feet under the command of the Lord Admirall Howard for the Sea, and the Earle of Essex for the Land service: shee also published a Declaration of An. 1596.the occasion, viz. because she heard of the great preparation which the King of Spaine made for a second invasion of her Land, and when it was ready to set saile, she made this prayer: Most omnipotent maker and guider of the worlds Maisse, that only searchest and fathomest the bottom of our hearts, & in them seest Her prayer for her Fleet.the true Originalls of all our actions intended: thou that by thy foresight dost truly discerne, how no malice of revenge, nor requitall of injury, nor desire of bloodshed, nor greedinesse of gaine hath bred that resolution of our setting forth this Army, but a heedfull care, and wary watch, that no neglect of foes, nor over-surety of Haven, might breed either danger to us, or glory to them: these being our true grounds, wee humbly beseech thee with bended knees, prosper the worke, and with best fore-winds guide the journey, speed the victory, and make the returne the advancement of thy glory, the triumph of their fame, and surety to the Realme with the least losse of the English blood: To these devont Petitions Lord give thou thy blessed grant &c.
The Fleet, according to her prayer, saised with a prosperous wind to Cadiz, in whose haven lay ninty saile of Ships, and twenty Gallies: fiue of them of those which they called the Kings twelve Caidz taken by the English.Apostles: these were richly laden with ammunition, money, oile, waxe, silk, cloth of gold, quicksilver &c. with these our navy fought, beate them, then landed, assaulted the City, and tooke it: then the Generall made a proclamation, that none on paine of death should offer violence to any religious person, woman, or child: the Ladies and gentlewomen were sent away with their richest Iewells, and apparell: the spoile was given to the souldiers, and the Citizens paid 120. thousand Ducats for their ransom: The navy of the Spaniards valewed by themselves at twelve Millions of Ducats, was sunk, burned, or taken: our English souldiers were much inriched by this enterprise: then they marched up into the countrey without resistance, tooke many booties, and then returned to their ships, and so through Gods mercy, in safety to Plimmouth. Anno 1597 the Earle Essex was againe sent forth with a brave Fleet, with which he went to the Spanish Ilands, where he did great spoile, tooke rich prizes, and returned laden with honour, and treasure. After this, the King of Spanish Ilands invaded.Denmark sent Ambassadors to mediate peace betweene England and Spaine, whom she answered, and, concluded thus; I would have the King of Denmark and all Princes Christian, and Heathen know, Her answere to the K. of Dunmark.that England hath noe need to crave peace: nor my selfe endured one houres feare, since I attained the Crowne thereof, being (through Gods mercy) guarded with so valiant and faithfull Subjects.
Anno 1600 Tir-Owen, and others rebelling in Ireland, were much encouraged by the Pope: and the King of Spaine sent Don Iohn De Aquila into Ireland with two thousand old trained souldiers to joine with them, who landed at Kinsal in Munster, and after came a new supply under Don Alphonso, who was himselfe taken prisoner, and many of his Spaniards Tir-Owens rebellionslaine at his first landing, and Don Iohn so closely besieged, that he was glad to sue for peace, and upon articles to surrender all he had, and so to returne home againe. Finally God intending to advance this nation under her Government, as she had beene Piety rewarded.carefull to advance his glory, and the Gospell of Iesus Christ she, prospered in every thing at home and abroad; the great affaires of Europe chiefly depended upon her directions, who sitting at the Helme arbitrated and guided their estates, both in peace and Her great acts.warr: Spaine seeking to overflow all, was by her beaten back, and scarsly able to maintaine his owne banks: In France the house of Valois was underpropped Never did any Commonwealth doe such things.by her councell; and that of Burbon advanced by her countenance, forces, and treasure: Scotland releived by her love: Netherlands by her power: Portugalls King by her bounty: Poland by her commiseration: and Germany, Denmark, Swedeland often took up, and laid downe Armes at her beck: she extended her trade and fame into Russia, Asia, Africk, America: was highly honoured by the great Turke, Persians, Barbarians, Indians: She had warriers like to the worthies of David: renowned Captaines for Sea and land: by a powerfull Navie she attained the Soveraignty of the Sea: her Temperance was such, that Her Character.her brother King Edward usually called her, his sister Temperance: She was famous for piety, Iustice, and clemency: Her Court was an Academy of honorable Councellers, Illustrious Peers, Gallant Courtiers, Learned Professors, Intelligent statists, and a Sanctuary where the meanest might find refuge: As she was learned, so she tooke much paines to improve her learning, by reading over authors in their Originalls, whereby she was able to answer the Embassadors of most Nations in their owne languages: She (with Titus) thought that day lost, wherein she either did not, or received not some good: So that laying aside her great affaires, she spent some houres everie day in reading, or hearing learned Readers.
But above all, her piety was most remarkable; for the sacred Scriptures were her greatest delight, Her Piety.wherein she read often, and heard them frequently preached, to which she attended with much reverence, and the pious fruits thereof shined brightly in the whole course, as well of her privat life, as of her publ…ck actions: Prayer, sobriety, purity, charity, Chastity.and chastity, were her inseparable companions, never suffering any Lady to approach her presence, of whose stain she had but the least suspition. The distressed she relieved, the oppressed she succoured, the over-born Princes she aided, the proud she amated, and alwayes over-mastred, through Gods assistance, to her lasting memory, and Englands glory.
Her zeale to God appeared in preserving his true Church and worship from the pollutions of Idolatry: her Kingdome and Court was a sanctuary to banished Protestants and persecuted Christians, so that by forraigne Churches her losse was much lamented, and she was stiled the Nursing-mother of the French, Dutch, & Italian Exiles for Christs name, and the unconquered Defendresse of the whole true Christian Religion.
Her last sicknesse was accompanied with a deep melancholy; wherein, as she gave signes of death to Her last s…cknesse.her Physitians, so great assurance of eternall life to those godly Divines that were about her, manifesting by her fervent prayers, and by lively signes at their prayers, and speeches, how she rejoyced with the Apostle, That she had fought a good fight, finished her course, and kept the Faith, hoping for the Crown of Righteousnesse, which the Lord the righteous Judge had laid up for her against that great day. And so she resigned up her blessed Soule into the hands of her faithfull Creator, and mercifull Redeemer, March Her death24. Anno Christi 1602. of her age threescore and nine, six moneths and seventeen dayes, and of her reigne foure and fourty. She was as well beloved, and her death as much lamented, as ever any Prince was.
King JAMES erected for her a Princely Monument, whereon he caused to be inscribed this Epitaph.
Sacred unto Memory.
REligion to its primitive sincerity restored, peace throwly setled: Coine to the true value refined: Rebellion at home extinguishe: France neere ruine by intestine mischiefes, relieved: Netherlands supported: Spaines Armado vanquished: Ireland with Spaniards expulsion, and Traitors coercion, quieted: Both vniversities revenewes by a Law of provision, exceedingly augmented: Finally all England enriched; and fiue and forty yeares most prudently governed: Elizabeth, a Queene, a Conqueresse: a Triumpher: The most devoted to Piety: The most happie after seventy yeares of her life, quietly by Death departed, hath left here (in this most famous Collegiat Church, which by her was established, and refounded) these remaines of her mortality, untill at Christs call they shall againe arise immortall &c.
By her abstinence from wine, and most temperate Diet, she had preserved her health till her very latter end. A little before her death, she caused that Ring wherewith at her inauguration she was, as it were, married to her Kingdome, and which she had never after taken of, to be filed of her finger; she had a good vaine in Poetry. In the time of her sisters reigne, when a Popish Priest pressed her hard to declare her opinion of Christs presence in the Sacrament, she truly and warily answered him thus.
Twas God the word that spake it,
He tooke the bread and brake it;
And what the word did make it,
That I believe, and take it.
And at an other time, a little before the Spanish Invasion in eighty eight, the Spanish Embassador summing up his masters demands thus in verse;
Te veto ne pergas bello defendere Belgas:
Quae Dracus eripuit nunc restituentur oportet:
Quas Pater evertit jubeo te condere cellas,
Religio Papae fac restituetur ad nugnem.
These to you are our commands
Send no help to the Netherlands.
Of the treasure took by Drake
Restitution you must make.
And those Abbies build anew
Which your Father overthrew,
If for any peace you hope,
In all points restore the Pope.
Our Queene ex tempore returned him this answere; Ad Graecas, bone Rex, fient mandata Calendas:
Know, O great King, that this your will
At latter Lammas wee'l fulfill.
Concerning that wonderfull deliverance, that God gave to our Queene & Kingdome from the Spanish invasion in eightie eight, the learned and acute Beza made these verses.
Straverat innumeris Hispanus classibus aequor,
Regnis iuncturus sceptra Britanna suis.
Tanti hujus rogitas quae motus causa? superbos
Impulit Ambitio, vexit Avaritia.
Quam bene te Ambitio, mersit, vanissima, ventus,
Et tumidae tumidos vos superastis aquae!
Quam benè raptores Orbis totius Iberos
Merfit inexhausti justa vorago maris!
At tu, cui venti, cui totum militat aequor,
Regina, O mundi totius una decus.
Sic regnare deo perge, Ambitione remota,
Prodiga sic opibus perge ju vare pios:
Vt te Angli longum, longum Anglis ipsa fruaris
Quam dilecta bonis, tam metuenda malis.
Spaine with his Fleet the Seas did cover o're
Thinking to Spaine to joine the Brittish shore:
If you ask, why? Ambition of rise
Forc'd the proud fooles, vexed with Avarice:
How well, Ambition, did the winds thee drowne
And tumid waues, thy tumid mind bring downe?
How well the al-devouring Seas did curb
The Spaniards, Ravishers of the earths whole Orb?
But thou, for whom the winds, and Seas doe fight,
Great Queene: the worlds sole glory and delight.
Still maist thou reigne from foule Ambition freed,
Still with thy bounty to help them that need.
Long maist thou England; she long thee possesse.
Belou'd of good men, fear'd of wickednesse.
Collected out of Speeds Chronicle, the Booke of Martyrs, &c.