Attorney Gen. Yea , my Lord , you had three hundred Men
in Arms in your House ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.2)
why did you not dissolve them , being commanded upon your Allegiance
from the Queen to do it ? (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.3)
Essex . They hearing rumours of Men about my House
against them put them into such a Fear and Extasy , that it was not in
my power suddenly to dissolve them , or to quench their Passions ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.4)
and the rather , for that Sir Walter Raleigh desired Sir
Ferdinando Gorges to leave their Company , or else they
would all be lost ; so that they stood amazed , and knew not what to do
. (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.5)
Southampton . Mr. Attorney , you speak all this as if it
were as true as Gospel . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.6)
Essex . Good my Lord , let me intreat you to mark the
Circumstances : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.7)
Word was brought that Men were sent for into the Country , to take us
in our own Houses ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.8)
then we conceiving the thirsty Appetite of our private guard Enemies ,
took our selves to our Arms , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.9)
and were glad to stand upon our guard for our own Defence .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.10)
But as for the Lords of the Council that came to my House , we being
before advertised that we should be beset , thought it the securest way
for those of the Council to keep them there , not knowing what Mischief
would ensue . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.11)
Attorney Gen. My Lord , your Grace sees that this is
without Colour or Question ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.12)
for my Lord Chief Justice had proved it plain , that they would not
dissolve their Company that was up in Arms , being charged upon their
Allegiance so to do . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.13)
Essex . Good my Lord , know whether it were in my Lord
of Southampton 's power or in mine to withhold their
Purposes so suddenly : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.14)
For , not long before Sir Walter Raleigh had sent to my
House to have Sir Ferdinando Gorges come to him to
Durham-House ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.15)
and we fearing him to be a private Enemy , would not suffer Sir
Ferdinando to go thither , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.16)
but returned answer , that he would meet him on the Water upon equal
Terms : where Sir Walter Raleigh used the former
Speeches to Sir Ferdinando Gorges , wishing him to leave
our Company , or else he would be undone . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.17)
And whereas we are charged to have dealt with Papists , I assure your
Lordship , and it is most true , that Papists have been hired and
suborned to witness against me ; as by the means of one Sudall
, who was a Seminary Priest , and sent into Ireland
to deal with Sir Christopher Blunt , whom he
thought to be inward with me , to touch my Honour and Reputation .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.18)
Then Bales , the Scrivener in the Old Baily
, hath confessed under his hand to forge and counterfeit my
Hand in at least two Letters ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.19)
and these two honest Gentlemen can witness it .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.20)
Attorney Gen. Ay , by my troth this is true ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.21)
but it was by the Procurement of one of your own Men .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.22)
Essex . Thou swearest it , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.23)
but it is not on a Book ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.24)
that Man thou sayest I procured to do it , his name is John
Daniel , an arrant Thief , one that broke a Standard of mine ,
and stole a Casket of my Wife's , and many other things .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.25)
It is very probable that I should trust him so far , that had before
betrayed me , is it not ? (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.26)
But it is well known who set him at work to attempt against me so much
as he hath done , to procure my hand to be counterfeited ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.27)
and yet this Man , by your Judgment , must be a Practiser in such
Matters by my own Consent . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.28)
Well , Mr. Attorney , I thank God you are not my Judge
this Day , you are so uncharitable . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.29)
Attorney Gen. Well , my Lord , we shall prove you anon
what you are , which your Pride of Heart , and aspiring Mind , hath
brought you unto . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.30)
Essex . Ah ! Mr. Attorney , lay your Hand
upon your Heart , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.31)
and pray to God to forgive us both . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.32)
Raleigh . That Sir Ferdinando Gorges told
me upon the Water , that my Lord of Essex . had put
himself into a strong Guard at Essex-House , and this is
like to be the bloodiest day's work that ever was , wishing him to go
to Court with speed for prevention thereof : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.33)
Then Sir Walter wished Sir Ferdinando Gorges
to refuse their Company , else he would be undone .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.34)
To this Sir Walter was sworn . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.35)
Essex . Whatsoever Sir Walter Raleigh
hath said , differeth altogether from that which Sir Ferdinando
Gorges told us at Essex-House , upon his return
from the Water . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.36)
Attorn. Gen. Well , my Lord , what can you devise to say
for Sir John Davis , another of your Adherents , that
Papist ? (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.37)
for he hath confessed that he is a Papist and a Catholick , and drawn
in by Sir Christopher Blount , one of your chiefest
Counsel , and that he called for a Seminary Priest upon his Convertment
to absolve him . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,201.38)
Essex . If Sir John Davis were such a Man
, it $can $not {TEXT:cannot} be but strange to me to hear it ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.39)
altho' I $can $not {TEXT:cannot} search into the Secrets of his Heart
to accuse him inwardly , yet I have seen him dutifully come to Prayers
, and to the Service of God in my own House with me ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.40)
and behaved himself very godlily ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.41)
and of this I can be witness . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.42)
And as for Blunt God is my Witness I
have been so far from Popery , as I have so earnestly dealt with him to
reform himself , insomuch that he hath told me , I have been very
passionate . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.43)
But whereas you say , we have committed Treason , first prove that true
. (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.44)
Serjeant Yelvert. Why , my Lord , if you deny the
raising the Power , why should so many Men come to your House that day
? (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.45)
Southampton . By your favour , Mr. Serjeant
Yelverton , a word , I hope ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.46)
for my coming thither , it was not strange news ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.47)
and when I came that same morning to Essex-House , I
protest I had not above ten or twelve men attending me , which was but
my usual Company , therefore far from purposing to raise a Tumult .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.48)
Attorn. Gen. Why , the reason of that was , for that you
thought all London would have risen with you ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.49)
but , good my Lord , I beseech your Grace to hear the Oath of Sir
Ferdinando Gorges : whose Evidence was read ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.50)
and himself there in person did justify the same .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.51)
Sir Ferdinando Gorges his Confession .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.53)
He deposeth , That in January last the Earl of
Essex wrote to him a Letter , wherein he complained grievously
of his Misfortunes , and the miserable Estate he stood in , whereof he
purposed shortly to free himself , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.55)
and therefore prayed Sir Ferdinando Gorges to come up to
London to him : who coming accordingly , the Earl told
him how mightily he was crossed and discredited by his private Enemies
, which he could not endure ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.56)
for , saith he , I have Earls , Barons , and Gentlemen , that
participate in my discontented Humour , and will join with me ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.57)
and I desire your Help and Counsel therein . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.58)
One special Friend I have in the Court , whereby I have intelligence
from time to time : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.59)
And I hold our selves indifferently affected by the Citizens of
London , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.60)
and hope to have a good Party in Wales .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.61)
He confessed also , that they had two several Meetings at
Drury-House , to consult of these Matters ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.62)
and the Projects were , Whether it were better first to surprize the
Court , or to take the Tower of London , or to stir in
the City . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.63)
But most agreed , first to surprize the Court .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.64)
And then and there Sir John Davis took Pen , Ink , and
Paper , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.65)
and set down , That some should keep the Hall , some the Court-Gates ,
some the Guard-Chamber , and some the Presence-Chamber ; saying , many
of the Guard had been the Earl of Essex 's Servants ,
and were preferred to the Queen by him , and will be more indifferent
to deal with than others ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.66)
and so my Lord shall have a way thro' his own Guards to come to the
Privy-Chamber , and the Presence of the Queen .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.67)
And Sir Ferdinando Gorges said to the Earl of
Essex , Alas ! My Lord , what is so small a number of Men able
to do in so worthy an Action ? (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.68)
and so dissuaded the Earl from surprizing the Court ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.69)
and rather bade him submit himself to the Queen's Mercy , than proceed
any further . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.70)
And that the Earl of Southampton said at
Essex-House , Is it not three months since this Plot began ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.71)
and shall we resolve on nothing ? (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.72)
Then upon a sudden they all agreed , first to stir in London
, where they assured themselves of great Favour :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.73)
And after the Council was lock'd up , this Deponent followed the Troops
into London ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.74)
and after some advice the Earl of Essex sent him back
again with a Token to deliver to the Lord Chief Justice only , by
colour of which Token he set at liberty the Lord Keeper and the rest .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.75)
Lastly , he confirmed , that he told Sir Walter Raleigh
first , upon the Thames , of my Lord of Essex
's making his House a Guard , and putting his Friends into Arms
, as it is delivered by Sir Walter Raleigh .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.76)
Queen's Counsel . We desire , that the Examination of
Sir Charles Davers may be read ; which being
produced , was then read to this effect : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.77)
Sir Charles Davers's Examination .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.79)
He confesseth , That before Christmas last the Earl of
Essex entred into Consideration , how he might secure
himself to have access to the Queen's Presence without Resistance ; and
that the Resolution was agreeable to certain Articles written with the
Earl of Essex 's own Hand , and sent to the Earl of
Southampton to surpize the Court ; and that there were
divers Consultations about it , and the Points were these : First , to
take the Tower , for it would command London
, then to surprise the Court ; and after , the Court being
taken and possessed , to have assembled the rest of their Friends , and
to have presented themselves to the Queen : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.81)
and that being done , and the Guards secured , Sir Christopher
Blount should keep the outward Gates of the Court , Sir
John Davis the Hall and Water-gate , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.82)
Sir Charles Davers this Deponent should
keep the Presence and Guard-Chamber , and seize upon the Halberts and
Pensioners Battle-Axes . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.83)
The Intent was to surprize the Captain of the Guard at the Court , or
at his own House , and some others ; and then to surprize the Tower of
London : And that the Earl of Essex
resolved these things being accomplished immediately
to have called a Parliament to reform Disorders and private Grievances
. That this Deponent utterly disliked of these Courses ; and after the
Alarm was given at Court , he persuaded the Earl rather to flee into
Wales , or other parts beyond the Seas for his Security
, and avoiding the imminent Danger he was fallen into , than to trust
to the City . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.84)
And lastly , he protested , for his own part , what he had done in the
business , was merely for the Love he bore to the Earl of
Southampton . , and not for any Malice or private Discontent
otherwise . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.85)
When this was read , Mr. Attorney General produced the
Examination of Sir John Davis , which contained in
effect as follows : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.86)
Sir John Davis's Examination .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,202.88)
He saith , That the Earl's Purpose was , to possess himself of the
Court , and to take the Tower of London ; and that they
had several Meetings of Consultation , together with the Earl
of Southampton , Sir Ferdinando Gorges , Jo.
Littleton , Sir Christopher Blount , Sir
Charles Davers , and this Deponent . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.90)
And these Matters he confesseth the Earl of
Essex set down all with his own Hand , viz. Sir
Christopher Blount to keep the outward Gate of the Court
himself , this Deponent the Hall and Water-gate , and Sir
Charles Davers the Presence and Guard-Chamber ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.91)
then my Lord of Essex and his Forces would have come by
Land , and so have possessed the Presence of the Queen .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.92)
The question was asked the Earl of Essex as this
Deponent saith , How he would deal with Offenders , and such
as resisted him , after he should be possessed of these things ?
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.93)
He resolved them by way of Answer , That he meant to admit them all to
an honourable Trial . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.94)
Then was produced the Confession of Sir Christopher Blount
, which was as follows . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.95)
Sir Christopher Blunt's Examination .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.97)
He confesseth that the Earl of Essex sent Wiseman
, about the of January , to visit his Wife with
Letters of Compliment , and to require him to come up unto him to
London , to settle his Estate according as he had
written unto him before some few days . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.99)
Being demanded to what End they went to the City , to join with such
strength as they hoped for there ; he confesseth , it was to secure the
Earl of Essex 's Life , against such Forces as should be
sent against him . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.100)
And being asked , What , against the Queen's Forces ? he answered ,
That must have been judged afterwards . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.101)
But being further asked , Whether he did advise to come unto the Court
over Night ? he saith , No ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.102)
for Sir Ferdinando Gorges did assure , that the Alarum
was taken of it at the Court , and the Guards doubled .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.103)
Being asked , Whether he thought any Prince could have endured to have
any Subject make the City his Mediator ? or , to gather force to speak
for him ? he saith , He is not read in stories of former times ; but he
doth not know , but that in former times Subjects have used Force for
their mediation . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.104)
Being asked , What should have been done by any of the Persons that
should have been removed from the Queen ? he answer'd , That he never
found my Lord disposed to shed Blood ; but that any that should have
been found , should have had indifferent Trial .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.105)
Being asked upon his Conscience , Whether the Earl of Essex
did not give him Comfort , that if he came to Authority , there
should be a Toleration for Religion ? he confesseth , he should have
been to blame to have denied it . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.106)
Counsel . There is another Examination of Sir
Christopher Blount 's ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.107)
I pray let that be read . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.108)
Sir Christopher Blunt's second Examination .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.110)
He saith , That four or five days before the Insurrection in
London , the Earl of Essex set down divers
Articles with his own Hand , with Petitions to the Earl of
Southampton , Sir Charles Davers , Sir
John Davis , Sir Ferdinando Gorges , Jo. Littleton
, and this Deponent ; which were to the effect before
remembered . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.112)
And further this Deponent remembereth , That the Earl of Essex
's Purpose was after these things should be over-passed
and settled to alter the State of Government :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.113)
And further this Deponent confesseth himself to be reconciled to the
Pope : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.114)
And moreover saith , that the Earl of Essex said , He
looked not that any should be troubled for Religion , and Liberty of
Conscience ; that he received Letters from the Earl of Essex
the of January , to come to London
, whereupon he came . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.115)
The Earl of Rutland's Examination .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.117)
He saith , That being in London , with the Earl of
Essex , he heard him cry out in the Streets ,
England is bought and sold to the Spaniard :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.119)
and confesseth , when they had been possessed of London
, their Purpose was to have taken the Lord Keeper with them to the
Court , with the Earl of Essex 's Company ; and that the
Earl of Southampton and Sir John Davis
were in special Confederacy and Trust with the Earl of Essex
in these Causes . Lastly , That the Earl of Essex
said , he was sure of Sheriff Smith :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.120)
and this Deponent specially noted , the Earl of Southampton
was very much discontented . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.121)
Lord Cromwel's Examination .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.123)
He saith , He never heard of the Matter till the same Sunday-morning ,
when the Earl of Essex coming thro' Fleet-street
, where this Deponent lay , and being sent for by a Man of my
Lord's , he came into the Street to him ; where my Lord and divers of
his Followers took him by the Hand , and bade him welcome , praying him
to go along with him ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.125)
and the Earl of Essex cried , It is for the good of the
Queen , and of you all , my Masters . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.126)
First , he went to the Mayor's House , and then to Sheriff
Smith's House ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.127)
and being in Grace-Church-Street , and hearing of the
Proclamation , the Earl of Essex said , Where is the
Sheriff ? (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.128)
Let him bring Muskets and Pistols ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.129)
for I am credibly informed out of Ireland , that the
Kingdom of England is sold to the Spaniard
. (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.130)
And so upon the Proclamation the Deponent left him and his Company .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.131)
Lord Sandes's Examination .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.133)
He saith , He was sent for on Sunday-morning , the same day , by the
Earl of Essex ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.135)
and coming to Essex-House , he found then but a few
there : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.136)
but in a short time after , came the Earl of Southampton
with the rest . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.137)
This Deponent agreeth in divers other Circumstances with former
Examinations : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.138)
He confesseth , he went with the Earl into London , and
came back with him to Ludgate ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.139)
and there being repulsed , he heard my Lord of Essex cry
, Charge , charge ! and call for his Horse . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.140)
And he saith , that Sheriff Smith was as far in the
Matter as the best of them . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.141)
Mr. Attorney . Here Mr. Attorney urged ,
that there was a Combination ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.142)
and one Pashell affirm'd the burning of a black Purse by
the Earl of Essex , which my Lord confesseth ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.143)
but saith , that there was nothing in it , but a Key of an Iron-Chest ,
which he took out , and burnt a Paper in the same Purse , which did not
contain above five or six Lines of secret Matter : and , for that he
would not have so much as their Names drawn into question , which were
altogether ignorant of these Occurrents , did throw the Purse and Paper
into the Fire . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.144)
And also Pashell confesseth further , that when the Earl
of Essex came out of London to his House
, he told them , that he was beloved in the City .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.145)
Lord Monteagle's Examination .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.147)
He saith , He had no Foreknowledge of these Matters ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,203.149)
but confesseth , he followed the Earl of Essex
down Fleet-street , intending to go to the Mayor , and
so to his House in Seething-Lane .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.150)
And this Deponent being with the Earl of Essex in
Grace-Church-Street , confesseth he did hear the Earl
when the Lord Burleigh came with the Herald at Arms
command some of his Followers to bid the Herald stay ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.151)
for he would not hear him abuse the Queen's Name .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.152)
He saith also , he went back with the Earl to Ludgate ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.153)
and they were repulsed . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.154)
Mr. Attorney . Now , my Lord , I beseech your Grace ,
and you , my Lords , that be the Peers , let the due Consideration of
these several Examinations and Depositions enter into your Hearts ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.155)
and do but note , they have all agreed and jumped together in each
particular point , notwithstanding they were all severally examined :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.156)
but I must needs think it the just Judgment of God , in his mere Mercy
towards our Sovereign , to have the Truth so marvellously reveal'd ;
coming from them of their own accords , without Rack or Torture to any
of them . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.157)
Essex . Mr. Attorney , I answer , then ,
this for that point ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.158)
The self-same Fear , and the self-same Examiner , may make these
several Examinations agree all in one , were they never so far distant
; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.159)
but , good my Lord , let me intreat your Lordship to consider who they
be that testify this against me : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.160)
My Lord , they are Men within the Danger of the Law , and such as speak
with a desire to live ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.161)
but I think they have much to answer for between God and their Souls
and me . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.162)
I see they charge me with the surprizing of the Tower ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.163)
but upon what ground do they speak ? (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.164)
They had only some particular Notes of my Friends Names ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.165)
but ever very scornfully dashed at me ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.166)
for when my Friends persuaded me to any course , this was my purpose ,
to have come with eight or nine honourable Persons , who had just Cause
of Discontentment tho' not equal with mine unto her
Majesty , and so by Petition , prostrating our selves at her Majesty's
feet , to have put our selves unto her Mercy .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.167)
And the Effect of our Desires should have been , that she would have
been pleased to have sever'd some from her Majesty , who , by reason of
their Potency with her , abused her Majesty's Ears with false
Informations ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.168)
and they were Cobham , Cecil , and Raleigh :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.169)
For we {COM:sic} thought my Lord Cobham carried himself
in such factious and dangerous Courses , as he told her Majesty many
Untruths ; which was a principal Cause as I think of
withdrawing her Favour from us . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.170)
And to that intent , to remove such from her Highness I confess
was the only desire we had to present our selves in all
Humility before her Majesty , but without any purpose of Hurt to her
Highness : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.171)
for , I protest before God , I do carry as reverent and loyal Duty to
her Majesty , as any Man in the World . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.172)
But now , my Lord , seeing that I have heard the Testimony of Sir
Ferdinando Gorges , and himself here in Court to testify
it , I will say no more , but that if it please her Majesty to be
merciful unto him , I will be glad , and pray for it ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.173)
yet whatsoever he hath said , let my Life and his Dealing testify the
Truth : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.174)
and , Sir Ferdinando , speak nothing to touch thy self ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.175)
and speak what thou wilt to me ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.176)
for I see thou desirest to live , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.177)
yet speak like a Man . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.178)
Lord Admiral . I desire , for the better Satisfaction of
my self and Fellow-Peers , that Gorges might unfold
openly what other Secrets have passed between him and my Lord of
Essex , touching the State . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.179)
Essex . Ah ! my Lord Admiral , assure your self , in
faith , no Treason : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.180)
But yet , I pray thee , good Sir Ferdinando , speak
openly whatsoever thou dost remember ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.181)
and with all my heart I desire thee to speak freely .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.182)
Gorges . All that I can remember , I have deliver'd in
my Examination ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.183)
and further , I $can $not {TEXT:cannot} say .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.184)
Essex . Yes , Ferdinando , if ever you
knew any other Matter , which contained any Thought of Treason or
Disloyalty , speak it ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.185)
for they are things not to be forgotten . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.186)
Southampton . Good Sir Ferdinando ,
satisfy the Court what was intended among all our Conferences ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.187)
and Talk of our Enemies , and Discontentments , and Consultations , and
what was our best Course for our Defence against them .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.188)
Gorges . Some delivered their Minds one way , some
another ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.189)
but , by the Oath I have taken , I did never know or hear any Thought
or Purpose of Hurt or Disloyalty intended to her Majesty's Person by my
Lord of Essex . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.190)
Lord Admiral . I desire to know , for the better
Satisfaction of my Conscience , whether my Lord of Essex
did at any time deliver out any Articles in writing under his hand ,
therein laying open the Projects of his Purpose for surprizing the
Court and Tower . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.191)
Southampton . It was a foolish Action , I must needs
confess , the going thro' the Town , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.192)
and that was suddenly passed over : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.193)
But my Lord's purpose to have Men planted at the Court , was in regard
he feared hindrance by private Enemies , that would have stopped his
Passage to the Queen ; which , I protest , he intended to no other end
, but to prostrate himself at her Majesty's feet , and submit to her
Mercy , as ye have formerly heard . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.194)
Cobham . My Lord of Essex quoth
the Lord Cobham , standing up , let me know , I
intreat you , why you lay such Imputations upon me , as you have
deliver'd . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.195)
Essex . My Lord , I have forgiven all the World ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.196)
and therefore you shall not need to insist upon these Circumstances ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.197)
for I lay not my Cause upon aught that shall do your Lordship any harm
for my sake : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.198)
For , I protest , my Heart bears you no Malice ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.199)
but what I spake was freely , and in God's presence , hoping her
Majesty would have heard us , and our Complaints being true .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.200)
And I do further assure your Lordship , that I never spake it out of
fear of Death , or desire of Life . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.201)
Bacon . My Lord , may it please your Grace , whatsoever
my Lord of Essex hath here denied , in my conceit it
seemeth to be small . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.202)
I speak not to any ordinary Jury , but to prudent , grave and wise
Peers : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.203)
And this I must needs say , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.204)
It is evident that you , my Lord of Essex , had planted
a Pretence in your Hearts against the Government ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.205)
and now , under colour of excuse , you must lay the Cause upon
particular Enemies . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.206)
You put me in remembrance of one Pisistratus , that was
come into a City , and doting upon the Affections of the Citizens unto
him he having a purpose to procure the Subversion of a Kingdom
, and wanting Aid for the accomplishing his Humour thought it
the surest means for the winning of the Hearts of the Citizens unto him
, (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.207)
and so in that hope he entered the City , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.208)
and cut his Body over-thwart , to the end they might conjecture he had
been in danger : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.209)
and so by this means held the same Conceit as you and your Complices
did ; entering the City of London , persuading your
selves , if they had undertaken your Cause , all would have gone well
on your side . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.210)
And now , my Lord , all you have said , or can say , in answer to these
Matters , are but Shadows ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,204.211)
and therefore , $me $thinks {TEXT:methinks} , it were your best
course to confess , and not to justify . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.212)
Essex . May it please your Lordship , I must produce Mr.
Bacon for a Witness ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.213)
for when the Course of private Persecution was in hand , and most
assail'd me , then Mr. Bacon was the Man that proffer'd
me Means to the Queen , and drew a Letter in my name , and in his
Brother Sir Nicholas Bacon 's name ; which Letter he
purposed to shew the Queen , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.214)
and Gosnal was the Man that brought them unto me :
wherein I did see Mr. Bacon 's Hand pleaded as orderly ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.215)
and appointed them out that were my Enemies , as directly as might be .
Which Letters I know Mr. Secretary Cecil hath seen ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.216)
and by him it will appear what Conceit he held of me , and no otherwise
than he here coloureth and pleadeth the contrary .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.217)
Bacon . My Lord , I spent more hours to make you a good
Subject , than upon any Man in the World besides ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.218)
but since you have stirred up this Point , my Lord , I dare Warrant you
this Letter will not blush : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.219)
for I did but perform the Part of an honest Man ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.220)
and ever laboured to have done you good , if it might have been , and
to no other end ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.221)
for what I intended for your Good , was wished from the Heart , without
Touch of any Man's Honour . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.222)
Essex . Well , my Lord , I do here protest before the
living God , that an honourable , grave , and wise Counsellor hath
lamented and grieved at the Courses he hath seen taken , and therewith
hath wished himself often dead ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.223)
and this I speak upon credible and honourable Information :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.224)
But I can prove thus much from Sir Robert Cecil 's own
Mouth ; that he , speaking to one of his Fellow-Counsellors , should
say , that none in the World but the Infanta of Spain
had Right to the Crown of England .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.225)
Here Sir Robert Cecil stepped forth into the Court
having kept himself private till then
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.226)
and humbly desired leave to speak to Essex .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.227)
Sir R. Cecil . The Difference between you and me is
great ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.228)
for I speak in the Person of an honest Man , and you , my Lord , in the
Person of a Traitor : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.229)
so well I know , you have Wit at will . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.230)
The Preheminence hath been yours , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.231)
but I have Innocence , Truth of Conscience , and Honesty , to defend me
against the Scandal of slanderous Tongues , and aspiring Hearts ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.232)
and I protest before God , I have loved your Person , and justified
your Virtues : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.233)
and I appeal to God and the Queen , that I told her Majesty , your
Afflictions would make you a fit Servant for her .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.234)
And had I not seen your ambitious Affections inclined to Usurpation , I
could have gone on my Knees to her Majesty to have done you good ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.235)
but you have a Sheep's Garment in show , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.236)
and in appearance are humble and religious ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.237)
but God be thanked , we know you : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.238)
for indeed your Religion appears by Blunt , Davis and
Tresham , your chiefest Counsellors for the present :
and by promising Liberty of Conscience hereafter .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.239)
I stand for Loyalty , which I never lost ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.240)
you stand for Treachery , wherewith your Heart is possess'd :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.241)
and you charge me with high things , wherein I defy you to the
vttermost . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.242)
You , my good Lords , Counsellors of State , have had many Conferences
, (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.243)
and I do confess I have said the King of Scots is a
Competitor , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.244)
and you I have said are a Competitor : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.245)
you would depose the Queen , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.246)
you would be King of England , and call a Parliament .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.247)
Ah , my Lord , were it but your own Case , the Loss had been the less ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.248)
but you have drawn a number of noble Persons and Gentlemen of Birth and
Quality into your Net of Rebellion , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.249)
and their Bloods will cry vengeance against you .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.250)
For my part , I vow to God , I wish my Soul was in Heaven , and my Body
at rest , so this had never been . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.251)
Essex . Ah , Mr. Secretary , I thank God for my Humbling
; that you , in the Ruff of your Bravery , came to make your Oration
against me here this day . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.252)
Cecil . My Lord , I humbly thank God that you did not
take me for a fit Companion for you and your Humours ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.253)
for if you had , you would have drawn me to betray my Sovereign , as
you have done : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.254)
but I would have you name the Counsellor you speak of ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.255)
name him , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.256)
name him , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.257)
name him if you dare , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.258)
if you dare , I defy you ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.259)
name him if you dare . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.260)
Essex . Here stands an honourable Person meaning
the Earl of Southampton that knows I speak no
Fables ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.261)
he heard it as well as I . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.262)
Cecil . Then , my Lord of Southampton , I
adjure you by the Duty you owe to God , Loyalty and Allegiance you owe
to your Sovereign , by all Tokens of true Christianity , and by the
antient Friendship and Acquaintance once between us , that you name the
Counsellor . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.263)
Southampt. Mr. Secretary , if you will needs have me
name the Counsellor , it was Mr. Comptroller .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.264)
Whereupon the Secretary falling down upon his Knees , said , I thank
God for this day ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.265)
and upon his knee desired the Lord High Steward , that a Gentleman of
the Privy-Chamber or one that might have access to the Queen
might go , and humbly intreat her Highness to command Mr.
Comptroller to come before his Grace . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.266)
Hereupon the Lord High Steward calling Mr. Knevet
a Gentleman of her Majesty's Privy-Chamber said unto
him , Go , Mr. Knevet , unto her Majesty ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.267)
and let her understand Mr. Secretary's Demand .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.268)
Cecil . Mr. Knevet , you shall have free
access unto her Majesty ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.269)
tell her , that I vow before the God of Heaven , that if she refuse to
send Mr. Comptroller , whereby I may clear my self of these open
Scandals , I will rather die at her foot , as her Subject and
Vassal than live to do her any more Service in this honourable
degree , wherein her Highness employs me . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.270)
And withal , let me adjure you , Mr. Knevet , that you
do not acquaint Mr. Comptroller with the Cause why you come for him .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.271)
Mr. Knevet went , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.272)
and not long after return'd with Mr. Comptroller , to whom the Lord
High Steward repeated the Cause why he was sent for ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.273)
and desir'd him to satisfy the Lords , whether Mr. Secretary did use
any such Speech in his Hearing , or to his Knowledge .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.274)
Mr. Comptroller . I remember that once in Mr.
Secretary's Company , there was a Book read , that treated of such
matters ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.275)
but I never did hear Mr. Secretary use any such words , or to that
effect . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.276)
Whereupon Mr. Secretary thanked God , that tho' the Earl stood there as
a Traitor , yet he was found an honest Man , and a faithful Subject :
withal saying , I beseech God to forgive you for this open wrong done
unto me , as I do openly pronounce I forgive you from the bottom of my
Heart . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.277)
Essex . And I , Mr. Secretary , do clearly and freely
forgive you with all my Soul ; because I mean to die in Charity .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.278)
Bacon . My Lord , you may now perceive that my Lord of
Essex went about to procure matter , and to give over on
the instant . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,205.279)
South. Well , I beseech your Lordship , let me satisfy
your Lordship and the rest thus much , that for my own part , I did
never know the Laws . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.281)
Now , to shew the Causes that made me adventure so far as I did :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.282)
The first occasion that made me adventure into these Courses , was the
Affinity betwixt my Lord of Essex and me , I being of
his Blood , and marrying his Kinswoman ; so that for his sake I should
have hazarded my Life : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.283)
But what I have by my forwardness offended in Act , I am altogether
ignorant , but in Thought I am assured never .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.284)
And if thro' my ignorance in the Law I have offended , yet I humbly
submit my self to her Majesty , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.285)
and from the bottom of my Heart do beg her gracious Pardon , if it
please her : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.286)
and I hope that neither your Lordship nor any of the Peers will hold
any of the former Resolutions spoken of by these Orators for any
certainty , which depends no otherwise than one upon another .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.287)
For if any foolish Speeches have passed , I protest , as I shall be
saved , that they were never purposed by me , nor understood to be so
purposed by me , to the hurt of her Majesty's Person .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.288)
Essex . I beseech your Lordship to understand me , and
assure your self , that what I now speak , is not with any desire
I protest to spare one drop of my Blood ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.289)
and because some Honourable Persons are interested in the Cause , I
would under favour signify , because the Point hath
been so much urged by Mr. Attorney , that at our being
in London when we were past Pauls , word
was brought me , that the Chain was drawn at Ludgate ,
and that my Lord of Cumberland was there : which when I
heard , I was right glad ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.290)
for if there had been cause , I would have been glad to put my self
into so honourable a Person's hands as his : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.291)
but it was a false Report , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.292)
for my Lord was not then come thither . After which I sent to Sheriff
Smith 's House , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.293)
and after my coming thither , I sent the Sheriff and Mr. Alderman
Watts to my Lord Mayor , desiring him to come to us ; if
he would not , to send four of his Aldermen to see if we demeaned our
selves loyally , with intent to put our selves into their Hands to use
us as they would , or to put us into any Prison ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.294)
yet in regard of our private Enemies , and the fear of their Treachery
, we desired them to shut their Gates : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.295)
and this was the end for which we went into the City .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.296)
Attor. My Lord , if you had no other Purpose , why did
you go into Grace-Church-Street and
Fen-Church-Street , crying out all the way you went ,
England is bought and sold to the Spaniard !
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.297)
Southamp. Mr. Attorney , I protest
as I hope to have Mercy in Heaven I never heard my
Lord speak any such Word , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.298)
neither did I hear of the Proclamation you speak of , made by my Lord
Burleigh and the Herald at Arms ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.299)
neither did I see them : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.300)
and I deny my Soul and Conscience bearing me Witness
that I ever knew of any Intent and Meaning , or did ever mean or intend
any Treason , Rebellion , or other Action against my Sovereign or the
State ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.301)
but only what I did , was to assist my Lord of Essex in
his private Quarrel ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.302)
and therefore , Mr. Attorney , you have urged the matter
very far , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.303)
and you wrong me therein , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.304)
my Blood be upon your Head . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.305)
As for my Lord of Rutland , whereas he inferreth against
me to be a persuader and inviter of my Lord of Essex to
these Actions , he wrongeth me exceedingly ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.306)
for he was never the Man that saw me once discontented ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.307)
and therefore had small ground or reason so to say .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.308)
And you , Mr. Attorney , whereas you charge me for a
Papist , I protest most unfeignedly , I was never conversant with any
of that sort ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.309)
I only knew one White , a Priest , that went up and down
the Town , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.310)
yet did I never converse with him in all my Life .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.311)
Essex . My Lord , and you that be our Peers , I beseech
you give me hearing thus far ; not that I will speak it for the
safeguard of my Life , but with this my desire ,
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.312)
I charge the Souls of all them that be our Censurers or Triers :
because out of a Form and Custom of speaking , these Orators would make
them more odious that come to the Bar , that I may not be thought to
have done this upon Revenge : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.313)
for within these few days I purposed to have received the Communion ,
to be a Testimony that I was far from bearing of Malice to any , not so
much as {I_would_bear} to my private Enemies .
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.314)
But the falling out between the Earl of Southampton and
the Lord Grey , happening on a Sunday ,
hindered my Intent ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.315)
for so soon as I knew of it , I found my Affections to stir on it
exceedingly : (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.316)
yet I have since that time laboured , and by my Prayers to God
earnestly desired , that I might be armed with Patience to endure all
Afflictions . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.317)
And here I protest before the ever-living God , as he may have Mercy on
me , That my Conscience is clear from any disloyal Thought or Harm to
her Majesty ; (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.318)
and my desire ever hath been to be free from Bloodshed , as Mr.
Dove can witness . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.319)
But if in all my Thoughts and Purposes I did not ever desire the good
Estate of my Sovereign and Country , as of my own Soul ; I beseech the
Lord then shew some Mark upon me and my Soul in this place , for a just
Vengeance of my Untruths to all the World . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.320)
And God , which knoweth the Secrets of all Hearts , knoweth that I
never sought the Crown of England , nor ever wished to a
higher degree than a Subject . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.321)
I greatly endeavoured to have brought my Conscience to peace , only by
seeking to secure my Access to the Presence of the Queen , that I might
speedily have unfolded my Griefs unto her Majesty against my private
Enemies ; but not to have shed one drop of their Blood :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.322)
And this , my Lord , I speak , to the end I might put off all
imputation of being an Hypocrite , or an Atheist ;
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.323)
for I was never Papist , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.324)
neither did I ever favour any Sectary as my Lord of
Canterbury knoweth , and can testify :
(ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.325)
for my Religion , it is sound , (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.326)
and as I live , I mean to die in it . (ESSEXSTATE-E2-P2,206.327)