Title: The Principal Navigations, Voyages, Traffiques and Discoveries of the English Nation — Volume 07
 - England's Naval Exploits Against Spain
Author: Hakluyt, Richard
Language: English
As this book started as an ASCII text book there are no pictures available.


*** Start of this LibraryBlog Digital Book "The Principal Navigations, Voyages, Traffiques and Discoveries of the English Nation — Volume 07
 - England's Naval Exploits Against Spain" ***


Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions.



** Transcriber's Notes **

The printed edition from which this e-text has been produced retains the
spelling and abbreviations of Hakluyt's 16th-century original. In this
version, the spelling has been retained, but the following manuscript
abbreviations have been silently expanded:

- vowels with macrons = vowel + 'n' or 'm'
- q; = -que (in the Latin)
- y[e] = the; y[t] = that; w[t] = with

This edition contains footnotes and two types of sidenotes. Most footnotes
are added by the editor. They follow modern (19th-century) spelling
conventions. Those that don't are Hakluyt's (and are not always
systematically marked as such by the editor). The sidenotes are Hakluyt's
own. Summarizing sidenotes are labelled [Sidenote: ] and placed before the
sentence to which they apply. Sidenotes that are keyed with a symbol are
labeled [Marginal note: ] and placed at the point of the symbol, except in
poetry, where they are placed at a convenient point. Additional notes on
corrections, etc. are signed 'KTH'

** End Transcriber's Notes **



THE PRINCIPAL

Navigations, Voyages, Traffiques,

AND

Discoveries

of

THE ENGLISH NATION.

Collected by

RICHARD HAKLUYT, Preacher.

AND

Edited by

EDMUND GOLDSMID, F.R.H.S.

VOL. VII.

ENGLAND'S NAVAL EXPLOITS AGAINST SPAIN.



ENGLAND'S NAVAL EXPLOITS AGAINST SPAIN

A voyage to the Azores with two pinases, the one called the Serpent, and
  the other the Mary Sparke of Plimouth, both of them belonging to Sir
  Walter Raleigh, written by John Euesham Gentleman, wherein were taken the
  gouernour, of the Isle of Sainct Michael, and Pedro Sarmiento gouernour
  of the Straits of Magalanes, in the yeere 1586.

[Sidenote: The gouernour of S. Michael taken prisoner.] The 10. of June
1586. we departed from Plimouth with two Pinases, the one named the
Serpent, of the burden of 35. Tunnes and the other the Mary Sparke of
Plimouth of the burthen of 50. Tuns, both of them belonging to sir Walter
Raleigh knight; and directing our course towards the coast of Spaine, and
from thence towards the Isles of the Azores, we tooke a small barke laden
with Sumacke and other commodities, wherein was the gouernour of S.
Michaels Island, being a Portugal, having other Portugals and Spaniards
with him. And from thence we sailed to the Island of Graciosa, to the
Westward of the Island of Tercera, where we discried a saile, and bearing
with her wee found her to be a Spaniard: But at the first not greatly
respecting whom we tooke, so that we might haue enriched ourselves, which
was the cause of this our trauaile, and for that we would not bee knowen of
what nation we were, wee displayed a white silke ensigne in our maine
toppe, which they seeing, made accompt that we had bene some of the king of
Spaines Armadas, lying in wait for English men of war: but when we came
within shot of her, we tooke downe our white flagge, and spread abroad the
Crosse of S. George, which when they saw, it made them to flie as fast as
they might, but all their haste was in vaine, for our shippes were swifter
of saile then they, which they fearing, did presently cast their ordinance
and small shot with many letters, and the draft of the Straights of Magelan
into the Sea, [Sidenote: Pedro Sarmiento the governour of the Straights of
Magellan taken prisoner.] and thereupon immediately we tooke her, wherein
wee also tooke a gentleman of Spaine, named Pedro Sarmiento, gouernour of
the Straights of Magelan, which said Pedro we brought into England with us,
and presented him to our soueraigne Lady the Queene.

[Sidenote: A ship laden with fish taken and released againe.] After this,
lying off and about the Islands, wee descried another saile, and bearing
after her, we spent the maine maste of our Admirall, but yet in the night
our Viceadmirall tooke her, being laden with fish from Cape Blanke, the
which shippe wee let goe againe for want of men to bring her home. The next
day we descried two other sailes, the one a shippe and the other a Carauel,
to whom we gaue chase, which they seeing, with all speede made in vnder the
Isle of Graciosa, to a certaine Fort there for their succour, where they
came to an anker, and hauing the winde of vs, we could not hurt them with
our ships, but we hauing a small boate which we called a light horseman,
wherein my selfe was, being a Musqueter, and foure more with Caliuers, and
foure that rowed, came neere vnto the shore against the winde, which when
they saw vs come towards them they carried a great part of their
marchandize on land, whither also the men of both vessels went and landed,
[Sidenote: One of the ships taken and sent away with 2. persons.] and as
soon as we came within Musquet shot, they began to shoote at vs with great
ordinance and small shot, and we likewise at them, and in the ende we
boorded one wherein was no man left, so we cut her cables, hoysed her
sailes, and sent her away with two of our men, [Sidenote: The Caravel is
taken.] and the other 7. of vs passed more neere vnto the shoare, and
boorded the Carauel, which did ride within a stones cast from the shoare,
and so neere the land that the people did cast stones at vs, but yet in
despight of them all we tooke her, and one onely Negro therein: and cutting
her cables in the hawse, we hoysed her sailes and being becalmed vnder the
land we were constrained to rowe her out with our boate, the Fort still
shooting at vs, and the people on land with Musquets and caliuers, to the
number of 150. or thereabout: and we answered them with the small force wee
had; in the time of which our shooting, the shot of my Musquet being a
crossebarre-shot happened to strike the gunner of the fort to death, euen
as he was giuing leuell to one of his great pieces, and thus we parted from
them without any losse or hurt on our side. [Sidenote: The prises sent
home.] And now, hauing taken these fiue sailes of shippes, we did as
before, turne away the shippe with the fish, without hurting them, and from
one of the other shippes we tooke her maine Maste to serue our Admirals
turne, and so sent her away putting into her all the Spaniards and
Portugals (sauing that gentleman Pedro Sarmiento, with three other of the
principal men and two Negroes) leauing them all within sight of land, with
bread and water sufficient for 10. dayes if neede were.

Thus setting our course for England, being off the Islands in the height of
41 degrees, or there about, one of our men being in the toppe discried a
saile, then 10. saile, then 15. whereupon it was concluded to sende home
those prizes we had, and so left in both our Pinasses not aboue 60. men.
[Sidenote: Two Carracks, 10. Gallions, 12. small ships.] Thus wee returned
againe to the Fleete we had discried, where wee found 24. saile of shippes,
whereof two of them were Caracks, the one of 1200. and the other of a 1000.
tunnes, and 10. Gallions, the rest were small shippes and Carauels all
laden with Treasure, spices, and sugars with which 24. shippes we with two
small Pinasses did fight, and kept company the space of 32. houres,
continually fighting with them and they with vs, but the two Caracks kept
still betwixt the Fleete and vs, that wee could not take any one of them,
so wanting powder, wee were forced to giue them ouer against our willes,
for that wee were all wholly bent to the gaining of some of them, but
necessitie compelling vs, and that onely for want of powder, without losse
of any of our men, (which was a thing to be wondered at considering the
inequalitie of number) at length we gaue them ouer. [Sidenote: The 2.
pinasses returne for England.] Thus we againe set our course for England,
and so came to Plimouth within 6. houres after our prizes, which we sent
away 40. houres before vs, where wee were receiued with triumphant ioy, not
onely with great Ordinance then shot off, but with the willing hearts of
all the people of the Towne, and of the Countrey thereabout; and we not
sparing our Ordinance (with the powder wee had left) to requite and answere
them againe. And from thence wee brought our prizes to Southampton, where
sir Walter Ralegh being our owner, rewarded vs with our shares.

Our prizes were laden with sugars, Elephants teeth, waxe, hides, rice,
brasill, and Cuser, as by the testimonie of Iohn Euesham himselfe, Captaine
Whiddon, Thomas Rainford, Beniamin Wood, William Cooper Master, William
Cornish Master, Thomas Drake Corporall, Iohn Ladd gunner, William Warefield
gunner, Richard Moone, Iohn Drew, Richard Cooper of Harwich, William Beares
of Ratcliffe, Iohn Row of Saltash, and many others, may appeare.

       *       *       *       *       *

A briefe relation of the notable seruice performed by Sir Francis Drake
  vpon the Spanish Fleete prepared in the Road of Cadiz: and of his
  destroying of 100. saile of barks; Passing from thence all along the
  coast to Cape Sacre, where also hee tooke certaine Forts: and so to the
  mouth of the Riuer of Lisbon, and thence crossing ouer to the Isle of
  Sant Michael, supprized a mighty Carack called the Sant Philip comming
  out of the East India, which was the first of that kinde that euer was
  seene in England: Performed in the yeere 1587.

Her Maiestie being informed of a mightie preparation by Sea begunne in
Spaine for the inuasion of England, by good aduise of her graue and prudent
Counsell thought it expedient to preuent the same. Whereupon she caused a
Fleete of some 30. sailes to be rigged and furnished with all things
necessary. Ouer that Fleete she appointed Generall sir Francis Drake (of
whose manifold former good seruices she had sufficient proofe) to whom she
caused 4. ships of her Nauie royall to be deliuered, to wit, The
Bonauenture wherein himselfe went as Generall; the Lion vnder the conduct
of Master William Borough Controller of the Nauie; the Dread-nought vnder
the command of M. Thomas Venner; and the Rainebow, captaine whereof was M.
Henry Bellingham: vnto which 4 ships two of her pinasses were appointed as
hand-maids. There were also added vnto this Fleet certaine tall ships of
the Citie of London, of whose especiall good seruice the General made
particular mention in his priuate Letters directed to her Maiestie. This
Fleete set saile from the sound of Plimouth in the moneth of April towards
the coast of Spaine.

The 16. of the said moneth we mette in the latitude of 40. degrees with two
ships of Middleborough, which came from Cadiz; by which we vnderstood that
there was great store of warlike prouision at Cadiz and thereabout ready to
come for Lisbon. Vpon this information our Generall with al speed possible,
bending himselfe thither to cut off their said forces and prouisions, vpon
the 19. of April entered with his Fleet into the Harbor of Cadiz: where at
our first entring we were assailed ouer against the Towne by sixe Gallies,
which notwithstanding in short time retired vnder their fortresse.

There were in the Road 60. ships and diuers other small vessels vnder the
fortresse: there fled about 20. French ships to Port Real, and some small
Spanish vessels that might passe the sholdes. At our first comming in we
sunke with our shot a ship of Raguza of a 1000. tunnes, furnished with 40.
pieces of brasse and very richly laden. There came two Gallies more from S.
Mary port, and two from Porto Reale, which shot freely at vs, but
altogether in vaine: for they went away with the blowes well beaten for
their paines.

Before night we had taken 30. of the said ships, and became Masters of the
Road, in despight of the Gallies, which were glad to retire them vnder the
Fort: in the number of which ships there was one new ship of an
extraordinary hugenesse in burthen aboue 1200. tunnes, belonging to the
Marquesse of Santa Cruz being at that instant high Admirall of Spaine. Fiue
of them were great ships of Biskay, whereof 4. we fired, as they were
taking in the Kings prouision of victuals for the furnishing of his Fleet
at Lisbon: the fift being a ship about 1000. tunnes in burthen, laden with
Iron spikes, nailes, yron hoopes, horse-shooes, and other like necessaries
bound for the West Indies we fired in like maner. Also we tooke a ship of
250. tunnes laden with wines for the Kings prouision, which wee caried out
to the Sea with vs, and there discharged the said wines for our owne store,
and afterward set her on fire. Moreouer we tooke 3. Flyboats of 300. tunnes
a piece laden with biscuit, whereof one was halfe vnladen by vs in the
Harborow, and there fired, and the other two we tooke in our company to the
Sea. Likewise there were fired by vs ten other ships which were laden with
wine, raisins, figs, oiles, wheat, and such like. To conclude, the whole
number of ships and barkes (as we suppose) then burnt, suncke, and brought
away with vs, amounted to 30. at the least, being (in our iudgement) about
10000. tunnes of shipping.

There were in sight of vs at Porto Real about 40. ships, besides those that
fled from Cadiz.

We found little ease during our aboad there, by reason of their continuall
shooting from the Gallies, the fortresses, and from the shoare: where
continually at places conuenient they planted new ordinance to offend vs
with: besides the inconuenience which wee suffered from their ships, which,
when they could defend no longer, they set on fire to come among vs.
Whereupon when the flood came wee were not a little troubled to defend vs
from their terrible fire, which neuerthelesse was a pleasant sight for vs
to beholde, because we were thereby eased of a great labour, which lay vpon
vs day and night, in discharging the victuals, and other prouisions of the
enemie. Thus by the assistance of the almightie, and the inuincible courage
and industrie of our Generall, this strange and happy enterprize was
atchieued in one day and two nights, to the great astonishment of the King
of Spaine, which bread such a corrasiue in the heart of the Marques of
Santa Cruz high Admiral of Spaine, that he neuer enioyed good day after,
but within fewe moneths (as may iustly be supposed) died of extreame griefe
and sorrow.

Thus hauing performed this notable seruice, we came out of the Road of
Cadiz on the Friday morning the 21. of the said moneth of April, with very
small losse not worth the mentioning.

After our departure ten of the Gallies that were in the Road came out, as
it were in disdaine of vs, to make some pastime with their ordinance, at
which time the wind skanted vpon vs, whereupon we cast about againe, and
stood in with the shoare, and came to an anker within a league of the
towne: where the said Gallies, for all their former bragging, at length
suffred vs to ride quietly.

We now haue had experience of Gally-fight: wherein I can assure you, that
onely these 4. of her Maiesties ships will make no accompt of 20. Gallies,
if they may be alone, and not busied to guard others. There were neuer
Gallies that had better place and fitter opportunitie for their aduantage
to fight with ships: but they were still forced to retire, wee riding in a
narrow gut, the place yeelding no better, and driuen to maintaine the same,
vntill wee had discharged and fired the shippes, which could not
conueniently be done but vpon the flood, at which time they might driue
cleare off vs. Thus being victualed with bread and wine at the enemies cost
for diuers moneths (besides the prouisions that we brought from home) our
Generall dispatched Captaine Crosse into England with his letters, giuing
him further in charge to declare vnto her Maiestie all the particularities
of this our first enterprize.

After whose departure wee shaped our course toward Cape Sacre, and in the
way thither wee tooke at seuerall times of ships, barkes, and Carauels well
neere an hundred, laden with hoopes, gally-oares, pipe-staues, and other
prouisions of the king of Spaine, for the furnishing of his forces intended
against England, al which we burned, hauing dealt fauourably with the men
and sent them on shoare. We also spoiled and consumed all the fisher-boats
and nets thereabouts, to their great hinderance: and (as we suppose) to the
vtter ouerthrow of the rich fishing of their Tunies for the same yere. At
length we came to the aforesaid Cape Sacre, where we went on land; and the
better to enioy the benefite of the place, and to ride in the harborow at
our pleasure, we assailed the same castle, and three other strong holds,
which we tooke some by force and some by surrender.

Thence we came before the hauen of Lisbon ankering nere vnto Cascais, where
the Marques, of Santa Cruz was with his Gallies, who seeing vs chase his
ships a shoare, and take and cary away his barks and Carauels, was content
to suffer vs there quietly to tary, and likewise to depart, and neuer
charged vs with one canon-shot. And when our Generall sent him worde that
hee was there ready to exchange certaine bullets with him, the marques
refused his chalenge, sending him word, that he was not then ready for him,
nor had any such Commission from his King.

[Sidenote: The Carack called the Sanct Philip taken.] Our Generall thus
refused by the Marques, and seeing no more good to be done in this place,
thought it conuenient to spend no longer time vpon this coast: and
therefore with consent of the chiefe of his Company he shaped his course
toward the Isles of the Açores, and passing towards the Isle of Saint
Michael, within 20. or 30. leagues thereof, it was his good fortune to
meete with a Portugale Carak called Sant Philip, being the same shippe
which in the voyage outward had carried the 3. Princes of Iapan, that were
in Europe, into the Indies. This Carak without any great resistance he
tooke, bestowing the people thereof in certaine vessels well furnished with
victuals, and sending them courteously home into their Countrey: and this
was the first Carak that euer was then comming foorth of the East Indies;
which the Portugals tooke for an euil signe, because the ship bare the
Kings owne name.

The riches of this prize seemed so great vnto the whole Company (as in
trueth it was) that they assured themselues euery man to haue a sufficient
reward for his trauel: and thereupon they all resolued to returne home for
England: which they happily did, and arriued in Plimouth the same Sommer
with their whole Fleete and this rich booty, to their owne profite and due
commendation, and to the great admiration of the whole kingdome.

And here by the way it is to be noted, that the taking of this Carak
wrought two extraordinary effects in England: first, that it taught others,
that Caracks were no such bugs but that they might be taken (as since
indeed it hath fallen out in the taking of the Madre de Dios, and fyreing
and sinking of others) and secondly in acquainting the English Nation more
generally with the particularities of the exceeding riches and wealth of
the East Indies: whereby themselues and their neighbours of Holland haue
bene incouraged, being men as skilfull in Nauigation and of no lesse
courage then the Portugals to share with them in the East Indies: where
their strength is nothing so great as heretofore hath bene supposed.

       *       *       *       *       *

A true discourse written (as is thought) by Colonel Antonie Winkfield
  emploied in the voiage to Spaine and Portugall, 1589. sent to his
  particular friend, and by him published for the better satisfaction of
  all such as hauing bene seduced by particular report, haue entred into
  conceits tending to the discredite of the enterprise and Actors of the
  same.

Although the desire of aduancing my reputation caused me to withstand the
many perswasions you vsed to hold me at home, and the pursuite of honorable
actions drew me (contrary to your expectation) to neglect that aduise,
which in loue I know you gaue me: yet in respect of the many assurances you
haue yeelded mee of your kindest friendship, I cannot suspect that you will
either loue or esteeme me the lesse, at this my returne: and therefore I
wil not omit any occasion which may make me appeare thankfull, or discharge
any part of that duetie I owe you; which now is none other then to offer
you a true discourse how these warres of Spaine and Portugall haue passed
since our going out of England the 18 of Aprill, till our returne which was
the first of Iuly. Wherein I wil (vnder your fauourable pardon) for your
further satisfaction, as well make relation of those reasons which
confirmed me in my purpose of going abroad, as of these accidents which
haue happened during our aboad there; thereby hoping to perswade you that
no light fansie did drawe me from the fruition of your dearest friendship,
but an earnest desire by following the warres to make my selfe more woorthy
of the same.

Hauing therefore determinately purposed to put on this habite of a
souldier, I grew doubtfull whether to employ my time in the wars of the low
Countries, which are in auxiliarie maner maintained by her maiestie, or to
folow the fortune of this voiage, which was an aduenture of her and many
honorable personages, in reuenge of vnsupportable wrongs offered vnto the
estate of our countrey by the Castilian king: in arguing whereof, I find
that by how much the chalenger is reputed before the defendant, by so much
is the iourney to be preferred before those defensiue wars. For had the
duke of Parma his turne bene to defend, as it was his good fortune to
inuade: from whence could haue proceeded that glorious honor which these
late warres haue laid vpon him, or what could haue bene said more of him,
then of a Respondent (though neuer so valiant) in a priuate Duell: Euen,
that he hath done no more then by his honor he was tied vnto. For the gaine
of one towne or any small defeat giueth more renoume to the Assailant, then
the defence of a countrey, or the withstanding of twentie encounters can
yeeld any man who is bound by his place to guard the same: whereof as well
the particulars of our age, especially in the Spaniard, as the reports of
former histories may assure us, which haue still laied the fame of all
warres vpon the Inuader. And do not ours in these dayes liue obscured in
Flanders, either not hauing wherewithall to manage any warre, or not
putting on armes, but to defend themselues when the enemie shall procure
them? Whereas in this short time of our aduenture, we haue won a towne by
escalade, battered and assaulted another, ouerthrowen a mightie princes
power in the field, landed our armie in 3 seueral places of his kingdom,
marched 7 dayes in the heart of his country, lien three nights in the
suburbs of his principall citie, beaten his forces into the gates thereof,
and possessed two of his frontier forts, as shall in discourse thereof more
particularly appeare: whereby I conclude, that going with an Inuader, and
in such an action as euery day giueth new experience, I haue much to vaunt
of, that my fortune did rather cary me thither then into the wars of
Flanders. Notwithstanding the vehement perswasions you vsed with me to the
contrary, the grounds whereof sithence you receiued them from others, you
must giue me leaue to acquaint you with the error you were led into by
them, who labouring to bring the world into an opinion that it stood more
with the safetie of our estate to bend all our forces against the prince of
Parma, then to folow this action by looking into the true effects of this
journey, will iudicially conuince themselues of mistaking the matter. For,
may the conquest of these countries against the prince of Parma be thought
more easie for vs alone now, then the defence of them was 11 yeeres ago,
with the men and money of the Queene of England? the power of the Monsieur
of France? the assistance of the principal states of Germanie? and the
nobilitie of their owne country? Could not an armie of more then 20000
horse, and almost 30000 foot, beat Don Iohn de Austria out of the countrey,
who was possessed of a very few frontier townes? and shall it now be laid
vpon her maiesties shoulders to remoue so mightie an enemie, who hath left
vs but 3 whole parts of 17 vnconquered? It is not a iourney of a few
moneths, nor an auxiliarie warre of fewe yeeres that can damnifie the king
of Spaine in those places where we shall meet at euery 8 or 10 miles end
with a towne, which will cost more the winning then will yeerely pay 4 or 5
thousand mens wages, where all the countrey is quartered by riuers which
haue no passage vnfortified, and where most of the best souldiers of
Christendom that be on our aduerse party be in pension. But our armie,
which hath not cost her maiestie much aboue the third part of one yeres
expenses in the Low countries, hath already spoiled a great part of the
prouision he had made at the Groine of all sortes, for a new voyage into
England; burnt 3 of his ships, whereof one was the second in the last yeres
expedition called S. Iuan de Colorado, taken from him aboue 150 pieces of
good artillerie; cut off more then 60 hulks and 20 French ships wel manned
fit and readie to serue him for men of war against vs, laden for his store
with corne, victuals, masts, cables, and other marchandizes; slaine and
taken the principal men of war he had in Galitia; made Don Pedro Enriques
de Gusman, Conde de Fuentes, Generall of his forces in Portugall,
shamefully run at Peniche; laid along of his best Commanders in Lisbon; and
by these few aduentures discouered how easily her maiestie may without any
great aduenture in short time pull the Tirant of the world vpon his knees,
as wel by the disquieting his vsurpation of Portugall as without
difficultie in keeping the commoditie of his Indies from him, by sending an
army so accomplished, as may not be subiect to those extremities which we
haue endured: except he draw, for those defences, his forces out of the Low
countries and disfurnish his garisons of Naples and Milan, which with
safetie of those places he may not do. And yet by this meane he shall
rather be enforced therevnto, then by any force that can be vsed there
against him: wherefore I directly conclude that this proceeding is the most
safe and necessary way to be held against him, and therefore more importing
then the war in the Low countries. Yet hath the iourney (I know) bene much
misliked by some, who either thinking too worthily of the Spaniards valure,
too indifferently of his purposes against vs, or too vnworthily of them
that vndertooke this iourney against him, did thinke it a thing dangerous
to encounter the Spaniard at his owne home, a thing needlesse to proceed by
inuasion against him, a thing of too great moment for two subjects of their
qualitie to vndertake: And therefore did not so aduance the beginnings as
though they hoped for any good successe therof.

The chances of wars be things most vncertaine: for what people soeuer
vndertake them, they are in deed as chastisements appointed by God for the
one side or the other. For which purpose it hath pleased him to giue some
victories to the Spaniards of late yeeres against some whom he had in
purpose to ruine. But if we consider what wars they be that haue made their
name so terrible, we shal find them to haue bin none other then against the
barbarous Moores, the naked Indians, and the vnarmed Netherlanders, whose
yeelding rather to the name then act of the Spaniards, hath put them into
such a conceit of their mightines, as they haue considerately vndertaken
the conquest of our monarchie, consisting of a people vnited and always
held sufficiently warlike: against whom what successe their inuincible army
had the last yeere, as our very children can witness, so I doubt not but
this voiage hath sufficiently made knowen what they are euen vpon their
owne dunghill, which, had it bene set out in such sort as it was agreed
vpon by their first demaund, it might haue made our nation the most
glorious people of the world. For hath not the want of 8 of the 12 pieces
of artillerie, which were promised vnto the Aduenture, lost her maiestie
the possession of the Groine and many other places, as hereafter shall
appeare, whose defensible rampires were greater then our batterie (such as
it was) cold force: and therefore were left vnattempted?

It was also resolued to haue sent 600 English horses of the Low countries,
whereof we had not one, notwithstanding the great charges expended in their
transportation hither: and that may the army assembled at Puente de Burgos
thanke God of, as well as the forces of Portugall, who foreran vs 6 daies
together: Did we not want 7 of the l3 old Companies, which we should haue
had from thence; foure of the 10 Dutch Companies; and 6 of their men of war
for the sea, from the Hollanders: which I may iustly say we wanted, in that
we might haue had so many good souldiers, so many good ships, and so many
able bodies more then we had?

Did there not vpon the first thinking of the iourney diuers gallant
Courtiers put in their names for aduenturers to the summe of 10000 li. who
seeing it went forward in good earnest, aduised themselues better, and laid
the want of so much money vpon the iourney?

Was there not moreouer a rounde summe of the aduenture spent in leuying,
furnishing, and maintaining 3 moneths 1500 men for the seruice of Berghen,
with which Companies the Mutinies of Ostend were suppressed, a seruice of
no smal moment?

What misery the detracting of the time of our setting out, which should
haue bene the 1 of February, did lay vpon vs, too many can witnes: and what
extremitie the want of that moneths victuals which we did eat, during the
moneth we lay at Plimouth for a wind, might haue driuen vs vnto, no man can
doubt of, that knoweth what men do liue by, had not God giuen vs in the
ende a more prosperous wind and shorter passage into Galitia then hath bene
often seen, where our owne force and fortune reuictualled vs largely: of
which crosse windes, that held vs two dayes after our going out, the
Generals being wearie, thrust to Sea in the same, wisely chusing rather to
attend the change thereof there, then by being in harborough to lose any
part of the better, when it should come by hauing their men on shore: in
which two dayes 25 of our companies shipped in part of the fleet were
scattered from vs, either not being able or willing to double Vshant.

These burdens layed vpon our Generals before their going out, they haue
patiently endured, and I thinke they haue thereby much enlarged their
honour: for hauing done thus much with the want of our artillery, 600
horse, 3000 foot, and 20000 li. of their aduenture, and one moneths
victuals of their proportion, what may be conjectured they would haue done
with their ful complement?

For the losse of our men at sea, since we can lay it on none but the will
of God, what can be said more, then that it is his pleasure to turne all
those impediments to the honor of them against whom they were intended: and
he will still shew himselfe the Lord of hosts in doing great things by
them, whom many haue sought to obscure: who if they had let the action fall
at the height thereof in respect of those defects, which were such
especially for the seruice at land, as would haue made a mighty subiect
stoope vnder them, I do not see how any man could iustly haue layd any
reproch vpon him who commanded the same, but rather haue lamented the
iniquity of this time, wherein men whom forren countries haue for their
conduct in seruice worthily esteemed of, should not only in their owne
countrey not be seconded in their honorable endeuors, but mightily hindred,
euen to the impairing of their owne estates, which most willingly they haue
aduentured for the good of their countries: whose worth I will not value by
my report, lest I should seem guiltie of flattery (which my soule
abhorreth) and yet come short in the true measure of their praise. Onely
for your instruction against them who had almost seduced you from the true
opinion you hold of such men, you shall vnderstand that Generall Norris
from his booke was trained vp in the wars of the Admiral of France, and in
very yong yeeres had charge of men vnder the erle of Essex in Ireland:
which with what commendations he then discharged, I leaue to the report of
them who obserued those seruices. Vpon the breach betwixt Don Iohn and the
States, he was made Colonel generall of all the English forces there
present, or to come, which he continued 2 yeeres: he was then made Marshal
of the field vnder Conte Hohenlo: and after that, General of the army in
Frisland: at his comming home in the time of Monsieurs gouernment in
Flanders, he was made lord President of Munster in Ireland, which he yet
holdeth, from whence within one yere he was sent for, and sent Generall of
the English forces which her maiestie then lent to the Low countries, which
he held til the erle of Leicesters going ouer. And he was made Marshall of
the field in England, the enemy being vpon our coast, and when it was
expected the crowne of England should haue bene tried by battel. Al which
places of commandement which neuer any Englishman successiuely attained
vnto in forren wars, and the high places her maiestie had thought him
woorthy of, may suffice to perswade you, that he was not altogether
vnlikely to discharge that which he vndertooke.

What fame general Drake hath gotten by his iourney about the world, by his
aduentures to the west Indies, and the scourges he hath laid vpon the
Spanish nation, I leaue to the Southerne parts to speake of, and refer you
to The Booke extant in our own language treating of the same, and beseech
you considering the waighty matters they haue in all the course of their
liues with wonderfull reputation managed, that you wil esteeme them not wel
informed of their proceedings, that thinke them insufficient to passe
through that which they vndertooke, especially hauing gone thus far in the
view of the world, through so many incombrances, and disappointed of those
agreements which led them the rather to vndertake the seruice. But it may
be you wil thinke me herein either to much opinionated of the voiage, or
conceited of the Commanders, that labouring thus earnestly to aduance the
opinion of them both, haue not so much as touched any part of the
misorders, weaknes and wants that haue bene amongst vs, whereof they that
returned did plentifully report. True it is, I haue conceiued a great
opinion of the iourney, and do thinke honorably of the Commanders: for we
find in greatest antiquities, that many Commanders haue bene receiued home
with triumph for lesse merite, and that our owne countrey hath honored men
heretofore with admiration for aduentures vnequal to this: it might
therefore in those daies haue seemed superfluous to extend any mans
commendations by particular remembrances, for that then all men were ready
to giue enery man his due. But I hold it most necessary in these daies,
sithence euery vertue findeth her direct opposite, and actions woorthy of
all memory are in danger to be enuiously obscured, to denounce the prayses
of the action, and actors to the ful, but yet no further then with
sinceritie of trueth, and not without grieuing at the iniury of this time,
wherein is enforced a necessitie of Apologies for those men and matters,
which all former times were accustomed to entertaine with the greatest
applause that might be. But to answere the reports which haue bene giuen
out in reproach of the actors and action by such as were in the same: let
no man thinke otherwise, but that they, who fearing the casuall accidents
of war had any purpose of returning, did first aduise of some occasion that
should moue them thereunto: and hauing found any whatsoever did thinke it
sufficiently iust, in respect of the earnest desire they had to seeke out
matter that might colour their coming home.

Of these there were some, who hauing noted the late Flemish warres did
finde that many yong men haue gone ouer and safely returned souldiers
within fewe moneths, in hauing learned some wordes of Arte vsed in the
warres, and thought after that good example to spend like time amongst vs:
which being expired they beganne to quarrell at the great mortalitie that
was amongst vs.

The neglect of discipline in the Armie, for that men were suffered to be
drunke with the plentie of wines.

The scarsitie of Surgions.

The want of carriages for the hurt and sicke: and the penurie of victuals
in the Campe:

Thereupon diuining that there would be no good done: And that therefore
they could be content to lose their time, and aduenture to returne home
againe.

These men haue either conceiued well of their owne wits (who by obseruing
the passages of the warre were become sufficient souldiers in these fewe
weeks, and did long to be at home, where their discourses might be wondred
at) or missing of their Portegues and Milrayes [Footnote: Coins current in
Spain and Portugal.] which they dreamed on in Portugall, would rather
returne to their former maner of life, then attend the ende of the iourney.
For seeing that one hazard brought another; and that though one escaped the
bullet this day it might light vpon him to morow, the next day, or any day;
and that the warre was not confined to any one place, but that euery place
brought foorth new enemies, they were glad to see some of the poore
souldiers fal sicke, that fearing to be infected by them they might iustly
desire to go home.

[Sidenote: Answere to the first.] The sicknesse I confesse was great,
because any is too much. But hath it bene greater then is ordinary among
Englishmen at their first entrance into the warres, whithersoeuer they goe
to want the fulnesse of their flesh pots? Haue not ours decayed at all
times in France, with eating yong fruits and drinking newe wines? haue they
not abundantly perished in the Low countreys with cold, and rawnesse of the
aire, euen in their garrisons? Haue there not more died in London in sixe
moneths of the plague, then double our Armie being at the strongest? And
could the Spanish armie the last yeere (who had all prouisions that could
be thought on for an Armie, and tooke the fittest season, in the yeere for
our Climate) auoyd sicknes among their souldiers? May it then be thought
that ours could escape there, where they found inordinate heat of weather,
and hot wines to distemper them withall?

But can it be, that we haue lost so many as the common sort perswade
themselues wee haue? It hath bene prooued by strickt examinations of our
musters, that we were neuer in our fulnesse before our going from Plimouth
11000. souldiers, nor aboue 2500. Marriners. It is also euident that there
returned aboue 6000. of all sorts, as appeareth by the seuerall paiments
made to them since our comming home. And I haue truely shewed you that of
these numbers very neere 3000. forsooke the Armie at the Sea, whereof some
passed into France and the rest returned home. So as we neuer being 13000.
in all, and hauing brought home aboue 6000. with vs, you may see how the
world hath bene seduced, in belieuing that we haue lost 16000. men by
sicknes.

[Sidenote: Answere to the second.] To them that haue made question of the
gouernment of the warres (little knowing what appertained thereunto in that
there were so many drunkards amongst vs) I answere that in their gouernment
of shires and parishes, yea in their very housholdes, themselues can hardly
bridle their vassals from that vice. For we see it is a thing almost
impossible, at any your Faires or publique assemblies to finde any quarter
thereof sober, or in your Townes any Ale-poles vnfrequented: And we obserue
that though any man hauing any disordered persons in their houses, do locke
vp their drincke and set Butlers vpon it, that they will yet either by
indirect meanes steale themselues drunke from their Masters tables, or
runne abroad to seeke it. If then at home in the eyes of your Iustices,
Maiors, Preachers, and Masters, and where they pay for euery pot they take,
they cannot be kept from their liquor: doe they thinke that those base
disordered persons whom themselves sent vnto vs, as liuing at home without
rule, who hearing of wine doe long for it as a daintie that their purses
could neuer reach to in England, and having it there without mony euen in
their houses where they lie and hold their guard, can be kept from being
drunk; and once drunke, held in any order or tune, except we had for euery
drunkard an officer to attend him? But who be they that haue runne into
these disorders? Euen our newest men, our yongest men, and our idelest men,
and for the most part our slouenly prest men, whom the Justices, (who haue
alwayes thought vnwoorthily of any warre) haue sent out as the scumme and
dregs of their countrey. And those were they, who distempering themselues
with these hote wines, haue brought in that sicknesse, which hath infected
honester men then themselues. But I hope, as in other places the recouerie
of their diseases doeth acquaint their bodies with the aire of the
countries where they be, so the remainder of these which haue either
recouered, or past without sicknesse will proue most fit for Martiall
seruices.

[Sidenote: Answere to the third.] If we haue wanted Surgeons, may not this
rather be laid vpon the captaines (who are to prouide for their seuerall
Companies) then vpon the Generals, whose care hath bene more generall. And
how may it be thought that euery captaine, vpon whom most of the charges of
raising their Companies was laid as an aduenture, could prouide themselues
of all things expedient for a war, which was alwaies wont to be maintained
by the purse of the prince. But admit euery Captaine had his Surgeon: yet
were the want of curing neuer the lesse: for our English Surgeons (for the
most part) be vnexperienced in hurts that come by shot; because England
hath not knowen wars but of late, from whose ignorance proceeded this
discomfort, which I hope wil warne those that hereafter go to the wars to
make preparation of such as may better preserue mens liues by their skill.

[Sidenote: Answere to the fourth.] From whence the want of cariages did
proceed, you may conjecture in that we marched through a countrey neither
plentifull of such prouisions, nor willing to part from any thing: yet this
I can assure you, that no man of worth was left either hurt or sicke in any
place vnprouided for. And that the General commanded all the mules and
asses that were laden with any baggage to be vnburdened and taken that vse:
and the earle of Essex and he for money hired men to cary men vpon pikes.
And the earle (whose true vertue and nobilitie, as it doeth in all other
his actions appeare, so did it very much in this) threw down his own
stuffe, I meane apparel and necessaries which he had there, from his owne
cariages, and let them be left by the way, to put hurt and sicke men vpon
them. Of whose honourable deseruings I shall not need here to make any
particular discourse, for that many of his actions do hereafter giue me
occasion to obserue the same.

[Sidenote: Answere to the fift.] And the great complaint that these men
make for the want of victuals may well proceed from their not knowing the
wants of the war; for if to feed vpon good bieues, muttons and goats, be to
want, they haue endured great scarcitie at land, wherunto they neuer
wanted, two daies together, wine to mixe with their water, nor bread to eat
with their meat (in some quantitie) except it were such as had vowed rather
to starue then to stir out of their places for food: of whom we had too
many, who if their time had serued for it, might haue seen in many campes
in the most plentifull countries of the world for victuals, men daily die
with want of bread and drinke in not hauing money to buy, nor the countrey
yeelding any good or healthful water in any place; whereas both Spaine and
Portugall do in euery place affoord the best water that may be, and much
more healthful then any wine for our drinking.

And although some haue most injuriously exclaimed against the smal
prouisions of victuals for the sea, rather grounding the same vpon an euill
that might haue fallen, then any that did light vpon vs: yet know you this,
that there is no man so forgetfull, that will say they wanted before they
came to the Groine, that whosoeuer made not very large prouisions for
himselfe and his company at the Groine, was very improuident, where was
plentiful store of wine, biefe, and fish, and no man of place prohibited to
lay in the same into their ships, wherewith some did so furnish themselues,
as they did not onely in the journey supplie the wants, of such as were
lesse provident then they, but in their returne home made a round
commoditie of the remainder thereof. And that at Cascais there came in such
store of prouisions into the Fleet out of England, as no man that would
haue vsed his diligence could haue wanted his due proportion thereof, as
might appeare by the remainder that was returned to Plimmouth, and the
plentifull sale thereof made out of the marchants ships after their comming
into the Thames.

But least I should seeme vnto you too studious in confuting idle opinions,
or answering friuolous questions, I wil adresse me to the true report of
those actions that haue passed therein: wherein I protest, I will neither
hide any thing that hath hapned against vs, nor attribute more to any man
or matter, then the iust occasions thereof lead me vnto: wherein it shall
appeare that there hath bene nothing left vndone by the Generals which was
before our going out vndertaken by them, but that there hath bene much more
done then was at the first required by Don Antonio, who should haue reaped
the fruit of our aduenture.

[Sidenote: Our men land within a mile of the Groine the 20 of April.] After
6 daies sailing from the coast of England, and the 5 after we had the wind
good being the 20 of April in the euening, we landed in a baie more then an
English mile from the Groine, in our long boats and pinnasses without any
impeachment: from whence we presently marched toward the towne, within one
halfe mile we were encountred by the enemie who being charged by ours,
retired into their gates. For that night our armie lay in the villages,
houses and mils next adioining, and very neere round about the towne, into
the which the Galeon named S. Iohn (which was the second of the last yeeres
Fleet agaynst England) one hulke, two smaller ships and two Gallies which
were found in the road, did beate vpon vs and vpon our Companies as they
passed too and fro that night and the next morning. Generall Norris hauing
that morning before day viewed the Towne, found the same defended on the
land side (for it standeth vpon the necke of an Iland) with a wall vpon a
dry ditch; whereupon he resolued to trie in two places what might bee done
against it by escalade, and in the meane time aduised for the landing of
some artillery to beat vpon the ships and gallies, that they might not
annoy vs: which being put in execution, vpon the planting of the first
piece the gallies abandoned the road, and betooke them to Feroll, not farre
from thence: and the Armada being beaten with the artillery and musketers
that were placed vpon the next shore, left her playing vpon vs. The rest of
the day was spent in preparing the companies, and other prouisions ready
for the surprise of the base towne which was effected in this sort.

There were appointed to be landed 1200 men vnder the conduct of Colonell
Huntley, and Captaine Fenner the Viceadmirall, on that side next fronting
vs by water in long boats and pinnesses, wherein were placed many pieces ol
artillery to beat vpon the tonne in their aproch: at the corner of the wall
which defended the other water side, were appointed Captaine Richard
Wingfield Lieutenant Colonell to Generall Norris, and Captaine Sampson
Lieutenant Colonell to Generall Drake to enter at low water with 500 men if
they found it passable, but if not, to betake them to the escalade, for
they had also ladders with them: at the other corner of the wall which
joyned to that side that was attempted by water, were appointed Colonell
Vmpton, and Colonell Bret with 300 men to enter by escalade. All the
companies which should enter by boat being imbarked before the low water,
and hauing giuen the alarme, Captaine Wingfield and Captaine Sampson
betooke them to the escalade, for they had in commandement to charge all at
one instant. The boats landed without any great difficulty: yet had they
some men hurt in the landing. Colonell Bret and Colonell Vmpton entred
their quarter without encounter, not finding any defence made against them:
for Captaine Hinder being one of them that entred by water, at his first
entry, with some of his owne company whom he trusted well, betooke himselfe
to that part of the wall, which be cleared before that they offered to
enter, and so still scoured the wall till hee came on the backe of them who
mainteined the fight against Captaine Wingfield and Captaine Sampson; who
were twise beaten from their ladders, and found very good resistance, till
the enemies perceiuing ours entred in two places at their backs, were
driuen to abandon the same. The reason why that place was longer defended
then the other, is (as Don Iuan de Luna who commanded the same affirmeth)
that the enemy that day had resolued in councell how to make their
defences, if they were approched: and therein concluded, that, if we
attempted it by water, it was not able to be held, and therefore vpon the
discouery of our boats, they of the high towne should make a signall by
fire from thence, that all the lowe towne might make their retreat thither:
but they (whether troubled with the sudden terror we brought vpon them, or
forgetting their decree) omitted the fire, which made them guard that place
til we were entred on euery side.

Then the towne being entred in three seuerall places with an huge cry, the
inhabitants betooke them to the high towne: which they might with lesse
perill doe, for that ours being strangers here, knew not the way to cut
them off. The rest that were not put to the sword in fury, fled to the
rocks in the Iland, and others hid themselues in chambers and sellers,
which were euery day found out in great numbers.

Amongst those Don Iuan de Luna, a man of very good commandement, hauing
hidden himselfe in a house, did the next morning yeeld himselfe.

There was also taken that night a commissary of victuals called Iuan de
Vera, who confessed that there were in the Groine at our entry 500
souldiours being in seuen companies which returned very weake (as appeareth
by the small numbers of them) from the iourney of England, namely:

Vnder Don Iuan de Luna.

Don Diego Barran, a bastard sonne of the Marques of Santa Cruz; his company
  was that night in the Galeon.

Don Antonio de Herera then at Madrid.

Don Pedro de Manriques brother to the Earle of Paxides.

Don Ieronimo de Mourray of the Order of S. Iuan, with some of the towne
  were in the fort.

Don Gomez de Caramasal then at Madrid.

Captaine Manço Caucaso de Socas.

Also there came in that day of our landing from Retanzas the companies of
  Don Iohn de Mosalle, and Don Pedro Poure de Leon.

Also he saith that there was order giuen for baking of 300000 of biscuit,
  some in Batansas, some in Ribadeo, and the rest there.

There were then in the towne 2000 pipes of wine, and 150 in the
  ships.

That there were lately come vnto the Marques of Seralba 300000
  ducats.

That there were 1000 iarres of oile.

A great quantity of beanes, peaze, wheat, and fish.

That there were 3000 quintals of beefe.

And that not twenty dayes before, there came in three barks laden with
  match and harquebuzes.

Some others also found fauour to be taken prisoners, but the rest falling
into the hands of the common souldiers, had their throats cut, to the
number of 500, as I coniecture, first and last, after we had entred the
towne; and in the entry thereof there was found euery celler full of wine,
whereon our men, by inordinate drinking, both grew themselues for the
present senselesse of the danger of the shot of the towne, which hurt many
of them being drunke, and tooke the first ground of their sicknesse; for of
such was our first and chiefest mortality. There was also abundant store of
victuals, salt, and all kinde of prouision for shipping and the warre:
which was confessed by the sayd Commissary of victuals there, to be the
beginning of a magasin of all sorts of prouision for a new voyage into
England: whereby you may conjecture what the spoile thereof hath aduantaged
vs, and prejudiced the king of Spaine.

The next morning about eight of the clocke the enemies abandoned their
ships. And hauing ouercharged the artillery of the gallion, left her on
fire, which burnt in terrible sort two dayes together, the fire and
ouercharging of the pieces being so great, as of fifty that were in her,
there were not aboue sixteene taken out whole; the rest with ouercharge of
the powder being broken, and molten with heat of the fire, were taken out
in broken pieces into diuers shippes. The same day was the cloister on the
South side of the towne entred by vs, which ioyned very neere to the wall
of the towne, out of the chambers and other places whereof we beat into the
same with our musquetiers.

The next day in the afternoone there came downe some 2000 men, gathered
together out of the countrey, euen to the gates of the towne, as resolutely
(ledde by what spirit I know not) as though they would haue entred the
same: but at the first defence made by ours that had the guard there,
wherein were slaine about eighteene of theirs, they tooke them to their
heeles in the same disorder they made their approch, and with greater speed
then ours were able to follow: notwithstanding we followed after them more
then a mile. The second day Colonell Huntley was sent into the countrey
with three or foure hundred men, who brought home very great store of kine
and sheepe for our reliefe.

The third day in the night the Generall had in purpose to take a long
munition-house builded vpon their wall, opening towards vs, which would
haue giuen vs great aduantage against them; but they knowing the commodity
thereof for vs, burnt it in the beginning of the euening; which put him to
a new councell: for he had likewise brought some artillery to that side of
the towne. During this time there happened a very great fire in the lower
end of the towne; which, had it not bene by the care of the Generals
heedily sene vnto, and the fury thereof preuented by pulling downe many
houses which were most in danger, as next vnto them, had burnt all the
prouisions we found there, to our woonderfull hinderance.

The fourth day were planted vnder the gard of the cloister two demy-canons,
and two coluerings against the towne, defended or gabbioned with a crosse
wall, thorow the which our battery lay; the first and second fire whereof
shooke all the wall downe, so as all the ordinance lay open to the enemy,
by reason whereof some of the Canoniers were shot and some slaine. The
Lieutenant also of the ordinance, M. Spencer, was slaine fast by Sir Edward
Norris, Master thereof: whose valour being accompanied with an honourable
care of defending that trust committed vnto him, neuer left that place,
till he receiued direction from the Generall his brother to cease the
battery, which he presently did, leauing a gard vpon the same for that day;
and in the night following made so good defence for the place of the
battery, as after there were very few or none annoyed therein. That day
Captaine Goodwin had in commandement from the Generall, that when the
assault should be giuen to the towne, he should make a proffer of an
escalade on the other side, where he held his guard: but he (mistaking the
signall that should haue bene giuen) attempted the same long before the
assault, and was shot in the mouth. The same day the Generall hauing
planted his ordinance ready to batter, caused the towne to be summoned; in
which summons they of the towne shot at our Drum; immediatly after that
there was one hanged ouer the wall, and a parle desired; wherein they gaue
vs to vnderstand, that the man hanged was he that shot at the Drum before:
wherein also they intreated to haue faire warres, with promise of the same
on their parts. The rest of the parle was spent in talking of Don Iuan de
Luna, and some other prisoners, and somewhat of the rendring of the towne,
but not much, for they listened not greatly thereunto.

Generall Norris hauing by his skilfull view of the towne (which is almost
all seated vpon a rocke) found one place thereof mineable, did presently
set workemen in hand withall; who after three dayes labour (and the seuenth
after we were entred the base towne) had bedded their powder, but indeede
not farre enough into the wall. Against which time the breach made by the
canon being thought assaultable, and companies appointed as well to enter
the same, as that which was expected should be blowen vp by the mine:
namely, to that of the canon, Captaine Richard Wingfield, and Captaine
Philpot who lead the Generals foot-companie, with whom also Captaine Yorke
went, whose principall commandment was ouer the horsemen. And to that of
the Myne, Captaine Iohn Sampson, and Captaine Anthonie Wingfield Lieutenant
Colonell to the Master of the Ordinance, with certaine selected out of
diuers Regiments. All these companies being in armes, and the assault
intended to be giuen in al places at an instant, fire was put to the traine
of the mine; but by reason the powder brake out backewards in a place where
the caue was made too high, there could be nothing done in either place for
that day. During this time Captaine Hinder was sent with some chosen out of
euery company into the countrey for prouisions, whereof he brought in good
store, and returned without losse.

The next day Captaine Anthony Sampson was sent out with some 500 to fetch
in prouisions for the army, who was encountred by them of the countrey, but
he put them to flight, and returned with good spoile. The same night the
miners were set to worke againe, who by the second day after had wrought
very well into the foundation of the wall. Against which time the companies
aforesayd being in readinesse for both places (Generall Drake on the other
side, with two or three hundred men in pinnesses, making proffer to attempt
a strong fort vpon an Iland before the towne, where he left more then
thirty men) fire was giuen to the traine of the mine, which blew vp halfe
the tower vnder which the powder was planted. The assailants hauing in
charge vpon the effecting of the mine presently to giue the assault,
performed it accordingly; but too soone: for hauing entred the top of the
breach, the other halfe of the tower, which with the first force of the
powder was onely shaken and made loose, fell vpon our men: vnder which were
buried about twenty or thirty, then being vnder that part of the tower.
This so amazed our men that stood in the breach, not knowing from whence
that terror came, as they forsooke their Commanders, and left them among
the ruines of the mine. The two Ensignes of Generall Drake and Captaine
Anthony Wingfield were shot in the breach, but their colours were rescued:
the Generals by Captaine Sampsons Lieutenant, and Captaine Wingfields by
himselfe. Amongst them that the wall fell vpon, was Captaine Sydenham
pitifully lost; who hauing three or foure great stones vpon his lower
parts, was held so fast, as neither himselfe could stirre, nor any
reasonable company recouer him. Notwithstanding the next day being found to
be aliue, there was ten or twelue lost in attempting to relieue him.

The breach made by the canon was woonderfully well assaulted by them that
had the charge thereof, who brought their men to the push of the pike at
the top of the breach. And being ready to enter, the loose earth (which was
indeed but the rubbish of the outside of the wall) with the weight of them
that were thereon slipped outwards from vnder their feet. Whereby did
appeare halfe the wall vnbattered. For let no man thinke that culuerin or
demy-canon can sufficiently batter a defensible rampire: and of those
pieces which we had; the better of the demy-canons at the second shot brake
in her carriages, so as the battery was of lesse force, being but of three
pieces.

In our retreat (which was from both breaches thorow a narrow lane) were
many of our men hurt: and Captaine Dolphin, who serued very well that day,
was hurt in the very breach. The failing of this attempt, in the opinion of
all the beholders, and of such as were of best judgement, was the fall of
the mine; which had doubtlesse succeeded, the rather, because the approch
was vnlooked for by the enemy in that place, and therefore not so much
defence made there as in the other; which made the Generall grow to a new
resolution: for finding that two dayes battery had so little beaten their
wall, and that he had no better preparation to batter withall: he knew in
his experience, there was no good to be done that way; which I thinke he
first put in proofe, to trie if by that terror he could get the vpper
towne, hauing no other way to put it in hazzard so speedily, and which in
my conscience had obtained the towne, had not the defendants bene in as
great perill of their liues by the displeasure of their king in giuing it
vp, as by the bullet or sword in defending the same. For that day before
the assault, in the view of our army, they burnt a cloister within the
towne, and many other houses adioyning to the castle, to make it more
defensible: whereby it appeared how little opinion themselues had of
holding it against vs, had not God (who would not haue vs suddenly made
proud) layed that misfortune vpon vs.

Hereby it may appeare, that the foure canons, and other pieces of battery
promised to the iourney, and not performed, might haue made her Maiesty
mistresse of the Groine: for though the mine were infortunate, yet if the
other breach had bene such as the earth would haue held our men thereon, I
doe not thinke but they had entred it thorowly at the first assault giuen:
which had bene more then I haue heard of in our age. And being as it was,
is no more then the Prince of Parma hath in winning of all his townes
endured, who neuer entred any place at the first assault, nor aboue three
by assault.

The next day the Generall hearing by a prisoner that was brought in, that
the Conde de Andrada had assembled an armie of eight thousand at Puente de
Burgos, sixe miles from thence in the way to Petance, which was but the
beginning of an armie: in that there was a greater leauie readie to come
thither vnder the Conde de Altemira, either in purpose to relieue the
Groine, or to encampe themselues neere the place of our embarking, there to
hinder the same; for to that purpose had the marquesse of Seralba written
to them both the first night of our landing, as the Commissarie taken then
confessed, or at the least to stop our further entrance into the countrey,
(for during this time, there were many incursions made of three or foure
hundred at a time, who burnt, spoyled, and brought in victuals plentifully)
the General, I say, hearing of this armie, had in purpose the next day
following to visite them, agaynst whom hee caried but nine Regiments: in
the vantgard were the Regiment of Sir Roger Williams, Sir Edward Norris,
and Colonell Sidney: in the Battaile, that of the Generall, of Colonell
Lane, and Colonel Medkerk: and in the Rereward, Sir Henrie Norris, Colonell
Huntley, and Colonell Brets Regiments; leauing the other fiue Regiments
with Generall Drake, for the guard of the Cloister and Artillerie. About
ten of the clocke the next day, being the sixt of May, halfe a mile from
the campe, we discouering the enemy, Sir Edward Norris, who commanded the
vantgard in chiefe, appointed his Lieutenant Colonell Captaine Anthonie
Wingfield to command the shot of the same, who diuided them into three
troups; the one he appointed to Captaine Middleton to be conducted in a way
on the left hand: another to Captaine Erington to take the way on the right
hand, and the body of them (which were Musquetiers) Captaine Wingfield
tooke himselfe, keeping the direct way of the march. But the way taken by
Captaine Middleton met a little before with the way held by Captaine
Wingfield, so as be giuing the first charge vpon the enemy, was in the
instant seconded by Captaine Wingfield, who beat them from place to place
(they hauing very good places of defence, and crosse walles which they
might haue held long) till they betooke them to their bridge, which is ouer
a creeke comming out of the Sea, builded of stone vpon arches. On the foot
of the further side whereof, lay the Campe of the enemy very strongly
entrenched, who with our shot beaten to the further end of the bridge, Sir
Edward Norris marching in the point, of the pikes, without stay passed to
the bridge, accompanied with Colonell Sidney, Captaine Hinder, Captaine
Fulford, and diuers others, who found the way cleare ouer the same, but
through an incredible volley of shot; for that the shot of their army
flanked vpon both sides of the bridge, the further end whereof was
barricaded with barrels: but they who should haue guarded the same, seeing
the proud approch we made, forsooke the defence of the barricade, where Sir
Edward entred, and charging the first defendant with his pike, with very
earnestnesse in ouerthrusting, fell, and was grieuously hurt at the sword
in the head, but was most honourably rescued by the Generall his brother,
accompanied with Colonell Sidney, and some other gentlemen: Captaine Hinder
also hauing his Caske shot off, had fiue wounds in the head and face at the
sword: and Captaine Fulford was shot into the left arme at the same
encounter: yet were they so thorowly seconded by the Generall, who thrust
himselfe so neere to giue encouragement to the attempt (which was of
woonderfull difficulty) as their brauest men that defended that place being
ouerthrowen, their whole army fell presently into rout, of whom our men had
the chase three miles in foure sundry wayes, which they betooke themselues
vnto. [Sidenote: The notable ouerthrow giuen to the Spaniards at Puente de
Burgos.] There was taken the Standard with the Kings armes, and borne
before the Generall. How many two thousand men (for of so many consisted
our vantgard) might kill in pursuit of foure sundry parties, so many you
may imagine fell before vs that day. And to make the number more great, our
men hauing giuen ouer the execution, and returning to their standes, found
many hidden in the Vineyards and hedges, which they dispatched. Also
Colonell Medkerk was sent with his regiment three miles further to a
Cloister, which he burnt and spoiled, wherein he found two hundred more,
and put them to the sword. There were slaine in this fight on our side
onely Captaine Cooper and one priuate souldier; Captaine Barton was also
hurt vpon the bridge in the eye. But had you seene the strong baricades
they had made on either side of the bridge, and how strongly they lay
encamped thereabouts, you would haue thought it a rare resolution of ours
to giue so braue a charge vpon an army so strongly lodged. After the furie
of the execution, the Generall sent the vantgard one way, and the battell
another, to burne and spoile; so as you might haue seene the countrey more
then three miles compasse on fire. There was found very good store of
munition and victuals in the Campe, some plate and rich apparell, which the
better sort left behinde, they were so hotly pursued. Our sailers also
landed in an Iland next adioyning to our ships, where they burnt and
spoiled all they found. Thus we returned to the Groine, bringing small
comfort to the enemy within the same, who shot many times at vs as we
marched out; but not once in our comming backe againe.

The next day was spent in shipping our artillery landed for the battery,
and of the rest taken at the Groine, which had it bene such as might haue
giuen vs any assurance of a better battery, or had there bene no other
purpose of our iourney but that, I thinke the Generall would haue spent
some more time in the siege of the place.

The last two nights, there were that vndertooke to fire the higher towne in
one place, where the houses were builded vpon the wall by the water side:
but they within suspecting as much, made so good defence against vs, as
they preuented the same. In our departure there was fire put into euery
house of the low towne, insomuch as I may iustly say, there was not one
house left standing in the base towne, or the cloister.

The next day being the eight of May, we embarked our army without losse of
a man, which (had we not beaten the enemy at Puente de Burgos) had bene
impossible to haue done; for that without doubt they would haue attempted
something against vs in our imbarking: as appeared by the report of the
Commissary aforesayd, who confessed, that the first night of our landing
the Marques of Seralba writ to the Conde de Altemira, the Conde de Andrada,
and to Terneis de Santisso, to bring all the forces against vs that they
could possible raise, thinking no way so good to assure that place, as to
bring an army thither, where withall they might either besiege vs in their
base towne, if we should get it, or to lie betweene vs and our place of
imbarking, to fight with us vpon the aduantage; for they had aboue 15000
souldiers vnder their commandements.

After we had put from thence, we had the winde so contrary, as we could not
vnder nine dayes recouer the Burlings: in which passage on the thirteenth
day the Earle of Essex, and with him M. Walter Deuereux his brother (a
Gentleman of woonderfull great hope) Sir Roger Williams Colonell generall
of the footmen, Sir Philip Butler, who hath alwayes bene most inward with
him, and Sir Edward Wingfield, came into the fleet. The Earle hauing put
himselfe into the iourney against the opinion of the world, and as it
seemed to the hazzard of his great fortune, though to the great aduancement
of his reputation, (for as the honourable cariage of himselfe towards all
men doth make him highly esteemed at home; so did his exceeding
forwardnesse in all seruices make him to bee woondered at amongst vs) who,
I say, put off in the same winde from Falmouth, that we left Plimmouth in,
where he lay, because he would auoid the importunity of messengers that
were dayly sent for his returne, and some other causes more secret to
himselfe, not knowing (as it seemed) what place the Generals purposed to
land in, had bene as farre as Cadiz in Andaluzia, and lay vp and downe
about the South Cape, where he tooke some ships laden with corne, and
brought them vnto the fleet. Also in his returne from thence to meet with
our fleet, he fell with the Ilands of Bayon; and on that side of the riuer
which Cannas standeth vpon, he, with Sir Roger Williams, and those
Gentlemen that were with him went on shore, with some men out of the ship
he was in, whom the enemy, that held guard vpon that coast, would not
abide, but fled vp into the countrey.

The 16 day we landed at Peniche in Portugall, vnder the shot of the castle,
and aboue the waste in water, more then a mile from the towne, wherein many
were in perill of drowning, by reason the winde was great, and the sea went
high, which ouerthrew one boat, wherein fiue and twenty of Captaine
Dolphins men perished. The enemy being fiue companies of Spaniards vnder
the commandement of the Conde de Fuentes, sallied out of the towne against
vs, and in our landing made their approch close by the water side. But the
Earle of Essex with Sir Roger Williams, and his brother, hauing landed
sufficient number to make two troups, left one to holde the way by the
water side, and led the other ouer the Sandhils; which the enemy seeing,
drew theirs likewise further into the land; not, as we coniectured, to
encounter vs, but indeed to make their speedy passage away:
notwithstanding, they did it in such sort, as being charged by ours which
were sent out by the Colonell generall vnder Captaine Iackson, they stood
the same euen to the push of the pike: in which charge and at the push,
Captaine Robert Piew was slaine. The enemy being fled further then we had
reason to follow them, all our companies were drawen to the towne; which
being vnfortified in any place, we found vndefended by any man against vs.
And therefore the Generall caused the castle to be summoned that night;
which being abandoned by him that commanded it, a Portugall named Antonio
de Aurid, being possessed thereof, desired but to be assured that Don
Antonio was landed, whereupon he would deliuer the same; which he honestly
performed. [Sidenote: Peniche taken.] There was taken out of the castle
some hundred shot and pikes, which Don Emanuel furnished his Portugals
withall, and twenty barrels of powder: so as possessing both the towne and
the castle, we rested there one day: wherein some Friers and other poore
men came vnto their new king, promising in the name of their countrey next
adioyning, that within two dayes he should haue a good supply of horse and
foote for his assistance. That day we remained there, the Generals company
of horses were vnshipped.

The Generals there fully resolued, that the armie should march ouer land to
Lisbone vnder the conduct of Generall Norris; and that Generall Drake
should meete him in the riuer therof with the Fleete; and there should be
one Company of foote left in the garde of the Castle, and sixe in the
ships: also that the sicke and hurt should remaine there with prouisions
for their cures. The Generall, to trie the euent of the matter by
expedition, the next day beganne to march in this sort: his owne Regiment,
and the Regiment of Sir Roger Williams, Sir Henrie Norris, Colonell Lane,
and Colonell Medkerk, in the vantgard: Generall Drake, Colonell Deuereux,
Sir Edward Norris, and Colonell Sidneis in the battel: Sir Iames Hales, Sir
Edward Wingfield, Colonell Vmptons, Colonell Huntlies, and Colonell Brets
in the arrereward. By that time our army was thus marshalled, Generall
Drake, although hee were to passe by Sea, yet to make knowen the honourable
desire he bad of taking equall part of all fortunes with vs, stood vpon the
ascent of an hill, by the which our battalions must of necessity march and
with a pleasing kindnesse tooke his leaue seuerally of the Commanders of
euery regiment, wishing vs all most happy successe in our iourney ouer the
land, with a constant promise that he would, if the injury of the weather
did not hinder him, meet vs in the riuer of Lisbon with our fleet. The want
of cariages the first day was such, as they were enforced to cary their
munition vpon mens backs, which was the next day remedied.

In this march captaine Crispe the Prouost Marshall caused one who (contrary
to the Proclamation published at our arriuall in Portugall) had broken vp
an house for pillage, to be hanged, with the cause of his death vpon his
brest, in the place where the act was committed: which good example
prouidently giuen in the beginning of our march, caused the commandement to
be more respectiuely regarded all the iourney after, by them whom feare of
punishment doeth onely holde within compasse. The campe lodged that night
at Lorinha: the next day we had intelligence all the way, that the enemy
had made head of horse and foot against vs at Torres Vedras, which we
thought they would haue held: but comming thither the second day of our
march, not two houres before our vantgard came in, they left the towne and
the castle to the possession of Don Antonio.

There began the greatest want we had of victuals, especially of bread, vpon
a commandement giuen from the Generall, that no man should spoile the
countrey, or take any thing from any Portugall: which was more respectiuely
obserued, then I thinke would haue bene in our owne countrey, amongst our
owne friends and kindred: but the countrey (contrary to promise) wholly
neglected the prouision of victuals for vs, whereby we were driuen for that
time into a great scarsity. Which mooued the Colonell generall to call all
the Colonels together, and with them to aduise for some better course for
our people: who thought it best, first to aduertise the king what necessity
we were in, before we should of our selues alter the first institution of
abstinence. The Colonell generall hauing acquainted the Generall herewith,
with his very good allowance thereof, went to the king: who after some
expostulations vsed, tooke the more carefull order for our men, and after
that our army was more plentifully relieued.

The third day we lodged our army in three sundry villages, the one
battalion lying in Exarama de los Caualleros, another in Exarama do Obispo,
and the third in San Sebastian.

Captaine Yorke who commanded the Generals horse company, in this march made
triall of the valour of the horsemen of the enemy; who by one of his
Corporals charged with eight horses thorow 40 of them, and himselfe thorow
more than 200 with forty horses: who would abide him no longer then they
could make way from him.

The next day we marched to Lores, and had diuers intelligences that the
enemy would tary vs there: for the Cardinall had made publique promise to
them of Lisbon, that he would fight with vs in that place, which he might
haue done aduantageously; for we had a bridge to passe ouer in the same
place: but before our comming he dislodged, notwithstanding it appeared
vnto vs that he had in purpose to encampe there; for we found the ground
staked out where their trenches should haue bene made: and their horsemen
with some few shot shewed themselues vpon an hill at our comming into that
village; whom Sir Henry Norris (whose regiment had the point of the
vantgard) thought to draw vnto some fight, and therefore marched without
sound of drumme, and somewhat faster then ordinary, thereby to get neere
them, before he were discouered, for he was shadowed from them by an hil
that was betweene him and them: but before he could draw his companies any
thing neere, they retired.

General Drakes regiment that night, for the commodity of good lodging, drew
themselues into a village, more than one English mile from thence, and
neere the enemy: who not daring to do any thing against vs in foure dayes
before, tooke that occasion, and in the next morning fell downe vpon that
regiment, crying, Viua el Rey Don Antonio, which was a generall salutation
thorow all the Countrey, as they came: whom our yoong shouldiers (though it
were vpon their guard, and before the watch was discharged) began to
entertaine kindly, but hauing got within their guard, they fell to cut
their throats: but the alarme being taken inwards, the officers of the two
next Companies, whose Captaines (Captaine Sydnam and Captaine Young) were
lately dead at the Groine, brought downe their colours and pikes vpon them
in so resolute manner, as they presently draue them to retire with losse:
they killed of ours at their first entrance foarteene, and hurt sixe or
seuen.

The next day we lodged at Aluelana within three miles of Lisbon, where many
of our souldiers drinking in two places of standing waters by the way were
poisoned, and thereon presently; died. Some do think it came rather by
eating hony, which they found in the houses plentifully. But whether it
were by water or by hony, the poor men were poisoned.

That night the Earle of Essex, and Sir Rodger Williams went out about
eleuen of the clock with 1000 men to lie in ambuscade neere the town, and
hauing layed the same very neere, sent some to giue the alarme vnto the
enemy: which was well performed by them that had the charge thereof, but
the enemy refused to issue after them, so as the Earle returned assone as
it was light without doing any thing, though he had in purpose, and was
ready to haue giuen an honourable charge on them.

The 25 of May in the evening we came to the suburbs of Lisbon at the very
entrance whereof Sir Rodger Williams calling Captaine Anthony Wingfield
with him, tooke thirty shot or thereabouts, and first scowred all the
streets till they came very neere the town; where they found none but old
folks and beggars, crying, Viua el Rey Don Antonio, and the houses shut vp:
for they had caried much of their wealth into the towne, and had fired some
houses by the water side, full of corne and other prouisions of victuals,
least we should be benefited thereby, but yet left behinde them great
riches in many houses.

The foure regiments that had the vantgard that day, which were Colonell
Deuereux, Sir Edward Norris, Colonell Sidneys, and Generall Drakes (whom I
name as they marched) the Colonell generall caused to hold guard in the
neerest street of the Suburbs: the battell and arreward stood in armes all
the night in the field neere to Alcantara. Before morning Captaine
Wingfield, by direction from the Colonell generall Sir Roger Williams, held
guard with Sir Edward Norris his regiment in three places very neere the
town wall, and so held the same till the other regiments came in the
morning. About midnight they within the towne burnt all their houses that
stood upon their wall either within or without, least we possessing them,
might thereby greatly haue annoyed the towne.

The next morning Sir Roger Williams attempted (but not without peril) to
take a church called S. Antonio, which ioyned to the wall of the towne, and
would haue bene a very euill neighbor to the towne: but the enemy hauing
more easie entry into it then we gained it before vs. The rest of that
morning was spent in quartering the battell and arrereward in the Suburbs
called Bona Vista, and in placing Musquetiers in houses, to front their
shot vpon the wall, who from the same scowred the great streets very
dangerously.

By this time our men being thorowly weary with our six days march, and the
last nights watch, were desirous of rest; whereof the enemy being
aduertised, about one or two of the clocke sallied out of the towne, and
made their approach in three seuerall streets vpon vs, but chiefly in
Colonell Brets quarter: who (as most of the army was) being at rest, with
as much speed as he could, drew his men to armes, and made head against
them so thorowly, as himselfe was slaine in the place, Captaine Carsey shot
thorow the thigh, of which hurt he died within foure dayes after, Captaine
Carre slaine presently, and Captaine Caue hurt (but not mortally) who were
all of his regiment.

This resistance made aswell here, as in other quarters where Colonell Lane
and Colonell Medkerk commanded, put them to a sudden foule retreat;
insomuch, as the Earle of Essex had the chase of them euen to the gates of
the towne, wherein they left behinde them many of their best Commanders:
their troupe of horsemen also came out, but being charged by Captaine
Yorke, withdrew themselues again. Many of them also left the streets, and
betooke them to houses which they found open: for the Sergeant maior
Captaine Wilson slew with his owne hands three or foure, and caused them
that were with him to kill many others. Their losse I can assure you did
triple ours, as well in quality as in quantity.

During our march to this place, Generall Drake with the whole fleet was
come into Cascais, and possessed the towne without any resistance: many of
the inhabitants at their discouery of our nauy, fledde with their baggage
into the mountaines, and left the towne for any man that would possesse it,
till Generall Drake sent vnto them by a Portugall Pilot which he had on
boord, to offer them all peaceable kindnesse, so farre foorth as they would
accept of their King, and minister necessaries to all the army he had
brought; which offer they ioyfully imbraced, and presently sent two chiefe
men of their towne, to signifie their loyalty to Don Antonio, and their
honest affections to our people. Whereupon the Generall landed his
companies not farre from the Cloister called San Domingo, but not without
perill of the shot of the castle, which being guarded by 65 Spaniards, held
still against him.

As our fleet were casting ancre when the camne first into that road, there
was a small ship of Brasil that came from thence, which bare with them, and
seemed by striking her sailes, as though she would also haue ancred: but
taking her fittest occasion hoised againe, and would haue passed vp the
riuer, but the Generall presently discerning her purpose, sent out a
pinnesse or two after her, which forced her in such sort, as she ran
herselfe upon the Rocks: all the men escaped out of her, and the lading
(being many chests of sugar) was made nothing woorth, by the salt water. In
his going thither also, he tooke ships of the port of Portugall, which were
sent from thence, with fifteene other from Pedro Vermendes Xantes Sergeant
maior of the same place, laden with men and victuals to Lisbon: the rest
that escaped put into Setuuel.

The next day it pleased Generall Norris to call all the Colonels together,
and to aduise with them, whether it were more expedient to tary there to
attend the forces of the Portugall horse and foot, whereof the King had
made promise, and to march some conueuient number to Cascais to fetch our
artillery and munition, which was all at our ships, sauing that which for
the necessity of the seruice was brought along with vs: whereunto, some
caried away with the vaine hope of Don Antonio, that most part of the towne
stood for vs, held it best to make our abode there, and to send some 3000
for our artillery; promising to themselues, that the enemy being wel beaten
the day before, would make no more sallies: some others (whose vnbeliefe
was very strong of any hope from the Portugall) perswaded rather to march
wholly away, then to be any longer carried away with the opinion of things,
whereof there was so little appearance. The Generall not willing to leaue
any occasion of blotte to be layed vpon him for his speedy going from
thence, nor to lose any more time by attending the hopes of Don Antonio;
tolde them that though the expedition of Portugall were not the onely
purpose of their iourney, but an aduenture therein (which if it succeeded
prosperously, might make them sufficiently rich, and woonderfull
honourable) and that they had done so much already in triall thereof, as
what end soeuer happened, could nothing impaire their credits: yet in
regard of the Kings last promise, that he should haue that night 3000 men
armed of his owne Countrey, he would not for that night dislodge. And if
they came thereby to make him so strong, that he might send the like number
for his munition, he would resolue to trie his fortune for the towne. But
if they came not, he found it not conuenient to diuide his forces, by
sending any to Cascais, and keeping a remainder behinde, sithence he saw
them the day before so boldly sally vpon his whole army, and knew that they
were stronger of Souldiours armed within the towne, then he was without:
and that before our returne could be from Cascais, they expected more
supplies from all places, of Souldiours: for the Duke of Bragança, and Don
Francisco de Toledo were looked for with great reliefe. Whereupon his
conclusion was, that if the 3000 promised came not that night, to march
wholly away the next morning.

It may be here demanded, why a matter of so great moment should be so
slenderly regarded, as that the Generall should march with such an army
against such an enemy, before he knew either the fulnesse of his owne
strength, or certaine meanes how he should abide the place when he should
come to it. Wherein I pray you remember the Decrees made in the Councell at
Peniche, and confirmed by publique protestation the first day of our march,
that our nauy should meet vs in the riuer of Lisbon, in the which was the
store of all our prouisions, and so the meane of our tariance in that
place, which came not, though we continued till we had no munition left to
entertaine a very small fight. We are also to consider, that the King of
Portugall (whether carried away with imagination by the aduertisements he
receiued from the Portugals, or willing by any promise to bring such an
army into his Countrey, thereby to put his fortune once more in triall)
assured the Generall, that vpon his first landing, there would be a reuolt
of his subiects: whereof there was some hope giuen at our first entry to
Peniche, by the maner of the yeelding of that towne and fort, which made
the Generall thinke it most conuenient speedily to march to the principall
place, thereby to giue courage to the rest of the Countrey. The Friers also
and the poore people that came vnto him, promised, that within two dayes
the gentlemen and others of the Countrey would come plentifully in: within
which two dayes came many more Priests, and some very few gentlemen on
horsebacke; but not til we came to Torres Vedras: where they that noted the
course of things how they passed, might somewhat discouer the weaknesse of
that people. There they tooke two dayes more: and at the end thereof
referred him till our comming to Lisbon, with assurance, that so soone as
our army should be seene there, all the inhabitants would be for the King
and fall vpon the Spaniards.

After two nights tariance at Lisbon, the King, as you haue heard, promised
a supply of 3000 foot, and some horse: but all his appointments being
expired, euen to the last of a night, all his horse could not make a cornet
of 40, nor his foot furnish two ensignes fully, although they caried three,
or foure colours: and these were altogether such as thought to inrich
themselues by the ruine of their neighbours: for they committed more
disorders in euery place where we came by spoile, then any of our owne.

The Generall, as you see, hauing done more then before his comming out of
England was required by the King, and giuen credit to his many promises,
euen to the breach of the last, he desisted not to perswade him to stay yet
nine dayes longer: in which time he might haue engaged himselfe further,
then with any honour he could come out of againe, by attempting a towne
fortified, wherein were more men armed against vs, then we had to oppugne
them withall, our artillery and munition being fifteene miles from vs, and
our men then declining; for there was the first shew of any great
sickenesse amongst them. Whereby it seemeth, that either his prelacy did
much abuse him in perswading him to hopes, whereof after two or three dayes
he saw no semblance: or he like a silly louer, who promiseth himselfe fauor
by importuning a coy mistresse, thought by our long being before his towne,
that in the end taking pity on him, they would let him in.

What end the Friers had by following him with such deuotion, I know not,
but sure I am, the Laity did respite their homage till they might see which
way the victory would sway; fearing to shew themselues apparently vnto him,
least the Spaniard should after our departure (if we preuailed not) call
them to account: yet sent they vnder hand messages to him of obedience,
thereby to saue their owne, if he became King; but indeed very well
contented to see the Spaniards and vs try by blowes, who should carry away
the crowne. For they be of so base a mould, as they can very wel subiect
themselues to any gouernment, where they may liue free from blowes, and
haue liberty to become rich, being loth to endure hazzard either of life or
goods. For durst they haue put on any minds thorowly to reuolt, they had
three woonderfull good occasions offered them during our being there.

Themselues did in generall confesse, that there were not aboue 5000
Spaniards in that part of the Countrey, of which number the halfe were out
of the towne till the last day of our march: during which time, how easily
they might haue preuailed against the rest, any man may conceiue. But vpon
our approch they tooke them all in, and combined themselues in generall to
the Cardinall.

The next day after our comming thither, when the sally was made vpon vs by
their most resolute Spaniards, how easily might they haue kept them out, or
haue giuen vs the gate which was held for their retreat, if they had had
any thought thereof?

And two dayes after our comming to Cascais, when 6000 Spaniards and
Portugals came against vs as farre as S. Iulians by land, as you shal
presently heare (all which time I thinke there were not many Spaniards left
in the towne) they had a more fit occasion to shew their deuotion to the
King, then any could be offered by our tarying there. And they could not
doubt, that if they had shut them out, but that we would haue fought with
them vpon that aduantage, hauing sought them in Galitia vpon disaduantage
to beat them: and hauing taken so much paines to seeke them at their owne
houses, whereof we gaue sufficient testimony in the same accident. But I
thinke the feare of the Spaniard had taken so deepe impression within them,
as they durst not attempt any thing against them vpon any hazzard.

For, what ciuill countrey hath euer suffered themselues to be conquered so
few men as they were; to be depriued of their naturall King, and to be
tyrannized ouer thus long, but they? And what countrey, liuing in slauery
vnder a stranger whom they naturally hate, hauing an army in the field to
fight for them and their liberty, would lie still with the yoke vpon their
necks, attending if any strangers would vnburthen them, without so much as
rousing themselues vnder it, but they? They will promise much in speeches,
for they be great talkers, whom the Generall had no reason to distrust
without triall, and therefore marched on into their countrey: but they
performed little in action, whereof we could haue had no proofe without
this thorow triall. Wherein he hath discouered their weaknesse, and
honorably performed more then could be in reason expected of him: which had
he not done, would not these maligners, who seeke occasions of slander,
haue reported him to be suspicious of a people, of whose infidelity he had
no testimony: and to be fearefull without cause, if he had refused to giue
credit to their promises without any aduenture? Let no friuolous
questionist therefore further enquire why he marched so many dayes to
Lisbon, and taried there so small a while.

The next morning, seeing no performance of promise kept, he gaue order for
our marching away; himselfe, the Earle of Essex, and Sir Roger Williams
remaining with the stand that was made in the high street, till the whole
army was drawen into the field, and marched out of the towne, appointing
Captaine Richard wingfield, and Captaine Anthony Wingfield in the
arrereward of them with the shot; thinking that the enemy (as it was most
likely) would haue issued out vpon our rising; but they were otherwise
aduised. When we were come into the field, euery battalion fell into that
order which by course appertained vnto them, and so marched that night vnto
Cascais. Had we marched thorow this Countrey as enemies, our Souldiours had
beene well supplied in all their wants: but had we made enemies of the
Suburbs of Lisbon, we had beene the richest army that euer went out of
England: for besides the particular wealth of euery house, there were many
Warehouses by the water side full of all sorts of rich marchandizes.

In our march that day the gallies which had somewhat, but not much, annoyed
vs at Lisbon, (for that our way lay along the riuer) attended vs till we
were past S. Iulians, bestowing many shot amongst vs, but did no harme at
all, sauing that they strooke off a gentlemans legend, and killed the
Sergeant majors moile vnder him. The horsemen also followed vs afarre off,
and cut off as many sicke men as were not able to holde in marche, nor we
had cariage for.

After we had bene two dayes at Cascais, we had intelligence by a Frier,
that the enemy was marching strongly towards vs, and then came as farre as
S. Iulian: which newes was so welcome to the Earle of Essex and the
Generals, as they offered euery one of them to giue the messenger an
hundred crownes if they found them in the place; for the Generall desiring
nothing more then to fight with them in field roome, dispatched that night
a messenger with a trumpet, by whom he writ a cartell to the Generall of
their army, wherein he gaue them the lie, in that it was by them reported
that we dislodged from Lisbon in disorder and feare of them (which indeed
was most false) for that it was fiue of the clocke in the morning before we
fell into armes, and then went in such sort, as they had no courage to
follow out vpon vs. Also he challenged him therein, to meet him the next
morning with his whole army, if he durst attend his comming, and there to
try out the iustnesse of their quarrel by battell: by whom also the Earle
of Essex (who preferring the honor of the cause, which was his countreys,
before his owne safety) sent a particular cartel, offering himselfe against
any of theirs, if they had any of his quality; or if they would not admit
of that; sixe, eight, or tenne, or as many as they would appoint, should
meet so many of theirs in the head of our battell to trie their fortunes
with them; and that they should haue assurance of their returne and
honourable intreaty.

The Generall accordingly made all his army ready by three of the clocke in
the morning and marched euen to the place where they had encamped, but they
were dislodged in the night in great disorder, being taken with a sudden
feare that we had bene come vpon them, as the Generall was the next day
certainely informed: so as the Trumpet followed them to Lisbon, but could
not get other answere to either of his letters, but threatening to be
hanged, for daring to bring such a message. Howbeit the Generall had caused
to be written vpon the backside of their passport, that if they did offer
any violence vnto the messengers, he would hang the best prisoners he had
of theirs: which made them to aduise better of the matter, and to returne
them home; but without answere.

After our army came to Cascais, and the castle summoned, the Castellan
thereof granted, that vpon fiue or sixe shot of the canon he would deliuer
the same, but not without sight thereof. The Generall thinking that his
distresse within had bene such for want of men or victuals as he could not
holde it many dayes, because he saw it otherwise defensible enough,
determined rather to make him yeeld to that necessity then to bring the
cannon, and therefore onely set a gard vpon the same, lest any supply of
those things which he wanted should be brought vnto them. But he still
standing vpon those conditions, the Generall about two dayes before he
determined to goe to Sea, brought three or foure pieces of battery against
it: vpon the first fire whereof he surrendered, and compounded to go away
with his baggage and armies; he had one canon, two culuerings, one
basiliske, and three or foure other field pieces, threescore and fiue
Souldiours, very good store of munition and victualles enough in the
Castle: insomuch as he might haue held the same longer then the Generall
had in purpose to tarry there. One company of footmen was put into the
guard thereof, till the artillery was taken out, and our army embarked;
which without hauing that fort, we could not without great peril haue done.
When we were ready to set saile (one halfe of the fort being by order from
the Generall blowen vp by mine) the company was drawne away.

During the time we lay in the road, our fleet began the second of Iune, and
so continued sixe dayes after to fetch in some hulks to the number of
threescore, of Dansik, Stetin, Rostock, Lubeck and Hamburgh, laden with
Spanish goods, and as it seemed for the kings prouision, and going for
Lisbon: their principall lading was Corne, Masts, Cables, Copper, and waxe:
amongst which were some of great burthen woonderful well builded for
sailing, which had no great lading in them, and therefore it was thought
that they were brought for the kings prouision, to reinforce his decayed
nauy: whereof there was the greater likelyhood, in that the owner of the
greatest of them which caried two misnes, was knowen to be very inward with
the Cardinall, who rather then he would be taken with his ships, committed
himself vnto his small boat, wherein he recouered S. Sebastians: into the
which our men, that before were in flieboats, were shipped, and the
flieboats sent home with an offer of corne, to the value of their hire. But
the winde being good for them for Rochel, they chuse rather to lose their
corne then the winde, and so departed. The Generall also sent his horses
with them, and from thence shipped them into England.

The third of Iune, Colonell Deuereux and Colonell Sidney, being both very
sicke, departed for England, who in the whole iourney had shewed themselues
very forward to all seruices, and in their departure very vnwilling to
leave vs: that day we imbarked all our army, but lay in the road vntill the
eight thereof.

The sixt day the Earle of Essex, vpon receit of letters from her Maiesty,
by them that brought in the victuals, presently departed towards England,
with whom Sir Roger Williams was very desirous to go, but found the
Generalls very vnwilling he should do so, in that he bare the next place
vnto them, and if they should miscarry, was to command the army. And the
same day there came vnto vs two small barks that brought tidings of some
other shippes come out of England with victuals, which were passed vpwards
to the Cape: for meeting with whom, the second day after we set saile for
that place, in purpose after our meeting with them to go with the Iles of
Açores, the second day, which was the ninth, we met with them comming backe
againe towards vs, whose prouision little answered our expectation.
Notwithstanding we resolued to continue our course for the Ilands.

About this time was the Marchant Royall, with three or foure other ships,
sent to Peniche, to fetch away the companies that were left there; but
Captaine Barton hauing receiued letters from the Generals that were sent
ouerland, was departed before not being able by reason of the enemies
speedy marching thither either to bring away the artillery, or all his men,
according to the direction those letters gaue him; for he was no sooner
gone than the enemy possessed both town and castle, and shot at our ships
as they came into the road.

At this time also was the Ambassador from the Emperor of Marocco, called
Reys Hamet Bencasamp, returned, and with him M. Ciprian, a gentleman of
good place and desert, was sent from Don Antonio, and Captaine Ousley from
the Generals to the Emperor.

The next morning the nine gallies which were sent not fiue dayes before out
of Andaluzia for the strengthening of the riuer of Lisbon (which being
ioyned with the other twelue that were there before, though we lay hard by
them at S. Iulians, durst neuer make any attempt against vs) vpon our
departure from thence returning home, and in the morning being a very dead
calme, in the dawning thereof, fell in the winde of our fleet, in the
vttermost part whereof they assailed one stragling barke of Plimmouth, of
the which Captaine Cauerly being Captaine of the land company, with his
Lieutenant, the Master and some of the Mariners abandoned the ship, and
betooke them to ship-boats, whereof one, in which the Master and Captaine
were, was ouerrunne with the gallies, and they drowned. There were also two
hulks stragled farre from the strength of the other ships, which were so
calmed, as neither they could get to vs, or we to them, though all the
great shippes towed with their boats to haue releiued them, but could not
be recouered; in one of which was Captaine Minshaw with his company, who
fought with them to the last, yea after his ship was on fire, which whether
it was fired by himselfe or by them we could not well discerne, but might
easily iudge by his long and good fight, that the enemy could not but
sustaine much loose: who setting also vpon one other hulke wherein was but
a Lieutenant, were by the valour of the Lieutenant put off although they
had first beaten her with their artillery, and attempted to boord her. And
seeing also another hulke a league off, a sterne off vs, they made towards
her; but finding that she made ready to fight with them, they durst not
further attempt her: whereby it seemed, their losse being great in other
fights, they were loth to proceed any further.

From that day till the 19 of Iune, our direction from the Generall was,
that if the wind were Northerly, we should plie for the Açores; but if
Southerly, for the Iles of Bayon. We lay with contrary windes, about that
place and the Rocke, till the Southerly winde preuailing carried vs to
Bayon: part of our ships to the number of 25, in a great winde which was
two dayes before, hauing lost the Admirals and the fleet, according to
their direction, fell in the morning of that day with Bayon, among whom was
Sir Henry Norris in the Ayde; who had in purpose (if the Admirals had not
come in) with some 500 men out of them all to haue landed, and attempted
the taking of Vigo. The rest of the fleet held with Generall Drake, who
though he were two dayes before put vpon those Ilands, cast off againe to
sea for the Açores: but remembering how vnprouided he was for iourney and
seeing that he had lost company of his great ships, returned for Bayon, and
came in there that night in the euening where he passed vp the riuer more
than a mile aboue Vigo.

[Sidenote: Vigo taken.] The next morning we landed as many as were able to
fight, which were not in the whole aboue 2000 men (for in the 17 dayes we
continued on boord we had cast many of our men ouerboord) with which number
the Colonell generall marched to the towne of Vigo, neere the which when he
approched, he sent Captaine Anthony Wingfield with a troupe of shot to
enter one side of the same, who found vpon euery streets end a strong
barricade, but altogether abandoned; for hauing entered the towne, he found
but one man therein, but might see them making way before him to Bayon. On
the other side of the towne entred Generall Drake with Captaine Richard
Wingfield, whose approch on that side (I thinke) made them leaue the places
they had so artificially made for defence: there were also certaine shippes
sent with the Vice-admirall to lie close before the towne to beat vpon the
same with their artillery.

In the afternoone were sent 300 vnder the conduct of Captaine Petuin and
Captaine Henry Poure, to burne another village betwixt that and Bayon,
called Borsis, and as much of the country as the day would giue them leaue
to do; which was a very pleasant rich valley: but they burnt it all, houses
and corne, as did others on the other side of the towne, both that and the
next day, so as the countrey was spoiled seuen or eight miles in length.
There was found great store of wine in the towne, but not any thing els:
for the other dayes warning of the shippes that came first in, gaue them a
respit to cary all away.

[Sidenote: Vigo burned.] The next morning by breake of the day the Colonell
generall (who in the absence of the Generalls that were on boord their
ships, commanded that night on shore) caused all our companies to be drawen
out of the towne, and sent in two troups to put fire in euery house of the
same: which done, we imbarked againe.

This day there were certaine Mariners which (without any direction) put
themselues on shore, on the contrary side of the riuer from vs for pillage;
who were beaten by the enemy from their boats, and punished by the Generals
for their offer, in going without allowance.

The reasons why we attempted nothing against Bayon were before shewed to be
want of artillery, and may now be alledged to be the small number of our
men: who should haue gone against so strong a plade, manned with very good
souldiers, as was shewed by Iuan de Vera taken at the Groine, who confessed
that there were sixe hundred olde Souldiers in garrison there of Flanders,
and the Tercios of Naples, lately also returned out of the iourney of
England,

Vnder the leading of

Capitan Puebla,
Christofero Vasques de Viralta a souldier of Flanders.
Don Pedro Camascho, del tercio de Napoles.
Don Francisco de Cespedes.
Cap. Iuan de Solo, del tercio de Naples.
Don Diego de Cassaua.
Cap. Sauban.

Also he sayth there be 18 pieces of brasse, and foure of yron, lately layed
vpon the walles of the towne, besides them that were there before.

The same day the Generals seeing what weake estate our army was drawn into
by sicknesse, determined to man and victuall twenty of the best ships for
the Ilands of Açores with Generall Drake, to see if he could meet with the
Indian fleet, and Generall Norris to returne home with the rest: And for
the shifting of men and victualles accordingly, purposed the next morning
to fall downe to the Ilands of Bayon againe, and to remaine there that day.
But Generall Drake, according to their apointment, being vnder saile neuer
strooke at the Ilands, but put straight to sea; whom all the fleet followed
sauing three and thirty, which being in the riuer further then he, and at
the entrance out of the same, finding the winde and tide too hard against
them, were inforced to cast ancre there for that night; amongst whom, by
good fortune, was the Foresight, and in her Sir Edward Norris. And the
night folowing, Generall Norris being driuen from the rest of the Fleet by
a great storme, (for all that day was the greatest storme we had all the
time we were out) came againe into the Ilands, but not without great
perill, he being forced to trust to a Spanish Fisherman (who was taken two
dayes before at sea) to bring him in.

The next morning he called a council of as many as he found there, holding
the purpose he had concluded with sir Francis Drake the day before, and
directed all their courses for England, tarrying there all that day to
water and helpe such with victuall, as were left in wonderfull distresse by
hauing the victuals that came last, caried away the day before to sea.

[Sidenote: Their returne to Plimmouth.] The next day he set saile, and the
l0 day after, which was the 2 of Iuly came into Plimmouth, where he found
sir Francis Drake and all the Queens ships, with many of the others but not
all; for the Fleet was dispersed into other harbors, some led by a desire
of returning from whence they came, and some being possessed of the hulks
sought other Ports from their Generals eie, where they might make their
priuate commoditie of them, as they haue done to their great aduantage.

Presently vpon their arriual there, the Generals dissolued all the armie
sauing 8 companies which are yet held together, giuing euery souldier fiue
shillings in money, and the armies hee bare to make money of, which was
more then could by any means be due vnto them: for they were not in seruice
three moneths, in which time they had their victuals, which no man would
value at lesse then halfe their pay, for such is the allowance in her
maiesties ships to her mariners, so as there remained but 10 shillings a
moneth more to be paid, for which there was not any priuate man but had
apparel and furniture to his owne vse, so as euery common souldier
discharged, receiued more in money, victuals, apparel and furniture, then
his pay did amount vnto.

Notwithstanding, there be euen in the same place where those things haue
passed, that either do not or will not conceiue the souldiers estate, by
comparing their pouertie and the shortness of the time together, but lay
some iniuries vpon the Generals and the action. Where, and by the way, but
especially here in London, I find there haue bene some false prophets gone
before vs, telling strange tales. For as our countrey doeth bring foorth
many gallant men, who desirous of honour doe put themselues into the
actions thereof, so doeth it many more dull spirited, who though their
thoughts reach not so high as others, yet doe they listen how other mens
acts doe passe, and either beleeuing what any man will report vnto them,
are willingly caried away into errors, or tied to some greater mans faith,
become secretaries against a noted trueth. The one sort of these doe take
their opinions from the high way side, or at the furthest go no further
then Pauls to enquire what hath bene done in this voiage; where if they
meet with any, whose capacitie before their going out could not make them
liue, nor their valour maintaine their reputation, and who went onely for
spoile, complaining on the hardnesse and misery thereof, they thinke they
are bound to giue credite to these honest men who were parties therein, and
in very charitie become of their opinions. The others to make good the
faction they had entred into, if they see any of those malecontents (as
euery iourney yeeldeth some) doe runne vnto them like tempting spirits to
confirme them in their humour, with assurance that they foresaw before our
going out what would become thereof.

Be ye not therefore too credulous in beleeuing euery report: for you see
there haue bene many more beholders of these things that haue passed, then
actors in the same; who by their experience, not hauing the knowledge of
the ordinary wants of the warre, haue thought, that to lie hard, not to
haue their meat well dressed, to drinke sometimes water, to watch much, or
to see men die and be slaine, was a miserable thing; and not hauing so
giuen their mindes to the seruice, as they are any thing instructed
thereby, doe for want of better matter discourse ordinarily of these
things: whereas the iourney (if they had with that iudgement seene into it,
which their places required) hath giuen them far more honorable purpose and
argument of discourse.

[Sidenote: A worthy question dilated.] These mens discontentments and
mislikings before our comming home haue made mee labour thus much to
instruct you in the certaintie of euery thing, because I would not
willingly haue you miscaried in the indgements of them, wherein you shall
giue me leaue somewhat to dilate vpon a question, which I onely touched in
the beginning of my letter, namely, whether it bee more expedient for our
estate to maintain an offensiue war against the king of Spaine in the Low
countries, or as in this iourney, to offend him in his neerer territories,
seeing the grounds of arguing thereof are taken from the experience which
the actions of this iourney haue giuen vs.

There is no good subiect that will make question, whether it be behoofeful
for vs to hold friendship with these neighbours of ours or no, as well in
respect of the infinite proportion of their shipping, which must stand
either with vs or against vs; as of the commoditie of their harbors,
especially that of Vlishing, by the fauour whereof our Nauie may
continually keepe the Narrow seas, and which would harbour a greater Fleete
agaynst vs, then the Spaniard shall need to annoy vs withall, who being now
distressed by our common enemie, I thinke it most expedient for our safetie
to defend them, and if it may be, to giue them a reentrie into that they
haue of late yeeres lost vnto him. The one without doubt her maiestie may
do without difficultie, and in so honorable sort as he shal neuer be able
to dispossesse her or them of any the townes they now hold. But if any man
thinke that the Spaniard may be expelled from thence more speedily or
conueniently by keeping an armie there, then by sending one against him
into his owne countrey: let him foresee of how many men and continuall
supplies that armie must consist, and what intollerable expenses it
requireth. And let him thinke by the example of the duke of Alua, when the
prince of Orenge had his great armie agaynst him; and of Don Iuan, when the
States had their mightie assembly against him; how this wise enemie, with
whom we are to deale, may but by prolonging to fight with vs, leaue vs
occasions enough for our armie within few moneths to mutine and breake; or
by keeping him in his townes leaue vs a spoyled field: where though our
prouision may bee such of our owne as we starue ['staure' in source
text--KTH] not, yet is our weaknesse in any strange country such, as with
sicknes and miserie we shal be dissolued. And let him not forget what a
continual burthen we hereby lay vpon vs, in that to repossesse those
countreys which have been lately lost, wil be a warre of longer continuance
then we shall be able to endure.

In the very action whereof, what should hinder the king of Spaine to bring
his forces home vnto vs? For it is certaine he hath long since set downe in
councell, that there is no way for him wholy to recouer those Low
countries, but by bringing the warre vpon England it selfe, which hath
alwayes assisted them against him: and that being determined, and whereunto
he hath bene vehemently urged by the last yeeres losse he sustained vpon
our coasts, and the great dishonor this iourney hath laid vpon him; no
doubt if we shall giue him respite to doe it, but he will mightily advance
his purpose, for he is richly able thereunto, and wonderfull desirous of
reuenge.

To encounter wherewith, I wish euen in true and honest zeale to my
Countrey, that we were all perswaded that there is no such assured meanes
for the safetie of our estate, as to busy him with a well furnished armie
in Spaine, which hath so many goodly Bayes open, as we may land without
impeachment as many men as shall be needfull for such an inuasion. And
hauing an armie of 20000 roially furnished there, we shall not need to take
much care for their payment: for shal not Lisbon be thought able to make so
few men rich, when the Suburbs thereof were found so abounding in riches,
as had we made enemie of them, they had largely enriched vs all? Which with
what small losse it may be won, is not here to shew; but why it was not won
by vs, I haue herein shewed you. Or is not the spoyle of Siuil sufficient
to pay more then shall bee needful to bee sent against it, whose defence
(as that of Lisbone) is onely force of men, of whom how many may for the
present be raised, is not to be esteemed, because wee haue discouered what
kind of men they be, euen such as will neuer abide ours in field, nor dare
withstand any resolute attempt of ours agaynst them: for during the time we
were in many places of their countrey, they cannot say that euer they made
20 of our men turne their faces from them. And be there not many other
places of lesse difficultie to spoyle, able to satisfie our forces?

But admit, that if vpon this alarme that we haue giuen him, he tendering
his naturall and neerest soile before his further remooued off gouernments,
do draw his forces of old souldiers out of the Low countreys for his owne
defence, is not the victory then won by drawing and holding them from
thence, for the which we should haue kept an armie there at a charge by
many partes greater then this, and not stirred them?

Admit further our armie be impeached from landing there, yet by keeping the
Sea and possessing his principall roades, are we not in possibilitie to
meet with his Indian merchants, and very like to preuent him of his
prouisions comming out of the East countreys; without the which, neither
the subiect of Lisbon is long able to liue, nor the king able to maintaine
his Nauie? For though the countrey of Portugall doe some yeeres find
themselues corne, yet are they neuer able to victuall the least part of
that Citie. And albeit the king of Spaine be the richest prince in
Christendome, yet can he neither draw cables, hewe masts, nor make pouder
out of his mettals, but is to be supplied of them all from thence. Of whom
(some will hold opinion) it is no reason to make prize, because they bee
not our enemies: and that our disagreeance with them will impeach the trade
of our marchants, and so impouerish our countrey, of whose mind I can
hardly be drawen to be: For if my enemie fighting with me doe breake his
sword, so as I thereby haue the aduantage against him; what shall I thinke
of him that putteth a new sword into his hand to kill me withall? And may
it not bee thought more fitting for vs in these times to loose our trades
of Cloth, then by suffering these mischiefes, to put in hazard whether we
shall haue a countrey left to make cloth in or no? And yet though neither
Hamburgh, Embden, nor Stode doe receiue our cloth, the necessary vse
thereof in all places is such, as they will find means to take it from vs
with our sufficient commoditie.

And admit (which were impossible) that we damnifie him neither at sea nor
land (for vnlesse it be with a much more mightie armie then ours, he shall
neuer be able to withstand vs) yet shall we by holding him at his home,
free our selues from the warre at our owne wals; the benefit whereof let
them consider that best can iudge, and haue obserued the difference of
inuading, and being inuaded; the one giuing courage to the souldier, in
that it doeth set before him commoditie and reputation; the other a
fearefull terror to the countrey-man, who if by chance he play the man yet
is he neuer the richer: and who knowing many holes to hide himselfe in,
will trie them all before he put his life in perill by fighting: whereas
the Inuader casteth vp his account before hee goeth out, and being abroad
must fight to make himselfe way, as not knowing what place or strength to
trust vnto. I will not say what I obserued in our countrey-men when the
enemy offred to assaile vs here: but I wish that all England knew what
terror we gaue to the same people that frighted vs, by visiting them at
their owne houses.

Were not Alexanders fortunes great against the mightie Darius, onely in
that his Macedonians thirsted after the wealth of Persia, and were bound to
fight it out to the last man, because the last man knew no safer way to
saue himselfe then by fighting? Whereas the Persians either trusting to
continue stil masters of their wealth by yeelding to the Inuader, began to
practise against their owne king: or hauing more inward hopes, did hide
themselues euen to the last, to see what course the Conquerour would take
in his Conquest. And did not the aduise of Scipio, though mightily impugned
at the first, prooue very sound and honourable to his countrey? Who seeing
the Romans wonderfully amazed at the neerenesse of their enemies Forces,
and the losses they daily sustained by them, gaue counsell rather by way of
diuersion to cary an army into Afrike, and there to assaile, then by a
defensiue warre at home to remaine subiect to the common spoiles of an
assailing enemie. Which being put in execution drew the enemie from the
gates of Rome, and Scipio returned home with triumph: albeit his beginnings
at the first were not so fortunate against them, as ours haue bene in this
smal time against the Spaniard. The good successe whereof may encourage vs
to take armes resolutely against him. And I beseech God it may stirre vp
all men that are particularly interested therein, to bethinke themselues
how small a matter will assure them of their safetie, by holding the
Spaniard at a Baie, so farre off: whereas, if we giue him leaue quietly to
hatch and bring foorth his preparations, it will be with danger to vs all.

He taketh not armes against vs by any pretense of title to the crowne of
this realme, nor led altogether with an ambicious desire to command our
countrey, but with hatred towrrds our whole Nation and religion. Her
maiesties Scepter is already giuen by Bull to another, the honours of our
Nobilitie are bestowed for rewards vpon his attendants, our Clergie, our
Gentlemen, our Lawyers, yea all the men of what conditon soeuer are offered
for spoyle vnto the common souldier. Let euery man therefore, in defence of
the liberty and plentie he hath of long enjoyed, offer a voluntarie
contribution of the smallest part of their store for the assurance of the
rest. It were not much for euery Iustice of peace, who by his blew coat
proteceth the properest and most seuiceable men at euery muster from the
warres, to contribute the charge that one of these idle men doe put him to
for one yeere: nor for the Lawyer, who riseth by the dissensions of his
neighbours, to take but one yeeres gifts (which they call fees) out of his
coffers. What would it hinder euery officer of the Exchequer, and other of
her Maiesties courts, who without checks doe suddenly grow to great wealth,
honestly to bring foorth the mysticall commoditie of one yeeres profits? Or
the Clergie, who looke precisely for the Tenths of euery mans increase,
simply to bring forth the Tenth of one yeeres gathering, and in
thankfulnesse to her Maiestie (who hath continued for all our safeties a
most chargeable warre both at land & sea) bestow the same for her honor &
their own assurance, vpon an army which may make this bloody enemy so to
know himselfe and her Maiesties power, as he shall bethinke him what it is
to mooue a stirring people? Who, though they haue receiued some small
checke by the sicknesse of this last iourney, yet doubt I not, but if it
were knowen, that the like voyage were to bee supported by a generalitie,
(that might and would beare the charge of a more ample prouision) but there
would of all sortes most willingly put themselues into the same: some
caried with an honourable desire to be in action, and some in loue of such
would affectionately folow their fortunes; some in thirsting to reuenge the
death and hurts of their brethren, kinred, and friends: and some in hope of
the plentifull spoyles to be found in those countreys, hauing bene there
already and returned poore, would desire to goe againe, with an expectation
to make amends for the last: and all, in hatred of that cowardly proud
Nation, and in contemplation of the true honour of our owne, would with
courage take armes to hazard their liues agaynst them, whom euery good
Englishman is in nature bound to hate as an implacable enemie to England,
thirsting after our blood, and labouring to ruine our land, with hope to
bring vs vnder the yoke of perpetuall slauerie.

Against them is true honour to be gotten, for that we shall no sooner set
foot in their land, but that euery step we tread will yeeld vs new occasion
of action, which I wish the gallantrie of our Countrey rather to regard
then to folow those soft vnprofitable pleasures wherein they now consume
their time and patrimonie. And in two or three townes of Spaine is the
wealth of all Europe gathered together, which are the Magasins of the
fruits and profits of the East and West Indies, whereunto I wish our yong
able men, who (against the libertie they are borne vnto) terme themselues
seruing men, rather to bend their desires and affections, then to attend
their double liuerie and 40 shillings by the yeere wages, and the reuersion
of the old Copy-hold, for carying a dish to their masters table. But let me
here reprehend my selfe and craue pardon for entring into a matter of such
state and consequence, the care whereof is already laid vpon a most graue
and honorable counsell, who will in their wisdoms foresee the dangers that
may be threatned agaynst vs. And why do I labour to disquiet the securitie
of these happy gentlemen, and the trade of those honest seruing men, by
perswading them to the warres when I see the profession thereof so
slenderly esteemed? For though all our hope of peace be frustrate, and our
quarels determinable by the sword: though our enemie hath by his owne
forces, and his pensionaries industry, confined the united Prouinces into a
narow roume, and almost disunited the same: if he be now in a good way to
harbor himselfe, in the principall hauens of France, from whence he may
front vs at pleasure: yea though we are to hope for nothing but a bloodie
warre, nor can trust to any helpe but Armes; yet how far the common sort
are from reuerencing or regarding any persons of condition, was too
apparant in the returne of this our iourney, wherein the base and common
souldier hath bene tollerated to speake against the Captaine, and the
souldier and Captaine against the Generals, and wherein mechanicall and men
of base condicion doe dare to censure the doings of them, of whose acts
they are not woorthy to talke.

The ancient graue degree of the Prelacie is vpheld, though Martin raile
neuer so much, and the Lawyer is after the old maner worshipped, whosoeuer
inueigh against him. But the ancient English honour is taken from our men
of war, and their profession in disgrace, though neuer so necessary. Either
we commit idolatry to Neptune, and will put him alone stil to fight for vs
as he did the last yeere, or we be inchanted with some diuelish opinions,
that trauell nothing more then to diminish the reputation of them, vpon
whose shoulders the burden of our defence against the enemie must lie when
occasion shall be offred. For whensoeuer he shall set foote vpon our land,
it is neither the preaching of the Clergie that can turne him out againe,
nor the pleading of any Lawyers that can remoue him out of possession: no,
then they will honour them whom now they thinke not on, and then must those
men stand betweene them and their perils, who are now thought vnwoorthy of
any estimation.

May the burning of one towne (which cost the king then being six times as
much as this hath done her maiestie, wherein were lost seuen times as many
men as in any one seruice of this iourney, and taried not the tenth part of
our time in the enemies Countrey) be by our elders so highly reputed and
sounded out by the historie of the Realme: and can our voyage be so meanly
esteemed, wherein we burned both townes and Countreys without the losse of
fortie men in any such attempt?

Did our kings in former times reward some with the greatest titles of
honour for ouerthrowing a number of poore Scots, who, after one battell
lost, were neuer able to reenforce themselues against him; and shall they
in this time who have ouerthrowen our mightie enemie in battell, and taken
his roiall Standerd in the field, besieged the marquesse of Saralba 15
dayes together, that should haue bene the Generall of the Armie against vs,
brought away so much of his artillerie (as I haue before declared) be
vnwoorthily esteemed of?

It is possible that some in some times should receiue their reward for
looking vpon an enemie, and ours in this time not receiue so much as thanks
for hauing beaten an enemie at handie strokes?

But is it true that no man shall bee a prophet in his Countrey: and for my
owne part I will lay aside my Armes till that profession shal haue more
reputation, and liue with my friends in the countrey, attending either some
more fortunate time to vse them, or some other good occasion to make me
forget them.

But what? shall the blind opinion of this monster, a beast of many heads,
(for so hath the generaltie of old bene termed) cause me to neglect the
profession from whence I chalenge some reputation, or diminish my loue to
my countrey, which hitherto hath nourished me? No, it was for her sake I
first tooke armes, and for her sake I will handle them so long as I shall
be able to vse them: not regarding how some men in private conuenticles do
measure mens estimations by their owne humors; nor how euery popular person
doeth giue sentence on euery mans actions by the worst accidents. But
attending the gracious aspect of our dread Soueraigne, who neuer yet left
vertue vnrewarded: and depending vpon the iustice of her most rare and
graue aduisors, who by their heedie looking into euery mans worth, do giue
encouragement to the vertuous to exceed others in vertue: and assuring you
that there shall neuer any thing happen more pleasing vnto me, then that I
may once againe bee a partie in some honorable journey against the Spaniard
in his owne countrey, I will cease my complaint: and with them that deserue
beyond me, patiently endure the vnaduised censure of our malicious
reproouers.

If I haue seemed in the beginning hereof troublesome vnto you, in the
discouering of those impediments, and answering the slanders which by the
vulgar malicious and mutinous sort are laid as blemishes vpon the iourney,
and reprochse vpon the Generals (hauing indeed proceeded from other heads:)
let the necessitie of conseruing the reputation of the action in generall,
and the honors of our Generals in particular, bee my sufficient excuse: the
one hauing by the vertue of the other made our countrey more dreaded and
renowmed, then any act that euer England vndertooke before. Or if you haue
thought my perswasible discourse long in the latter end; let the
affectionate desire of my countreys good be therein answerable for me. And
such as it is I pray you accept it, as only recommended to your selfe, and
not to be deliuered to the publique view of the world, lest any man take
offence thereat: which some particular men may seeme iustly to do, in that
hauing deserued very well, I should not herein giue them their due
considerations: whereas my purpose in this priuate discourse hath bene
onely to gratifie you with a touch of those principall matters that haue
passed, wherein I haue onely taken notes of those men who either commaunded
euery seruice, or were of chiefest marke: if therefore you shall impart the
same to one, and he to another, and so it passe through my hands, I know
not what constructions would be made thereof to my preiudice; for that the
Hares eares may happily be taken for hornes. Howbeit I hold it very
necessary (I must confesse) that there should be some true manifestation
made of these things: but be it far from me to be the author thereof, as
very vnfit to deliuer my censure of any matter in publique, and most
vnwilling to haue my weaknesse discouered in priuate. And so I doe leaue
you to the happy successe of your accustomed good exercises, earnestly
wishing that there may be some better acceptance made of the fruits of your
studies, then there hath bene of our hazards in the wars. From London the
30 of August 1589.

       *       *       *       *       *

The escape of the Primrose a tall ship of London, from before the towne of
  Bilbao in Biscay: which ship the Corrigidor of the same Prouince,
  accompanied with 97 Spaniards, offered violently to arrest, and was
  defeated of his purpose, and brought prisoner into England.

Whereunto is added the Kings Commission for a generall imbargment or arrest
  of all English, Netherlandish, and Easterlings ships, written in
  Barcelona the 19 of May 1585.

It is not vnknowen vnto the world what danger our English shippes haue
lately escaped, how sharpely they haue beene intreated, and howe hardly
they haue beene assaulted: so that the valiancie of those that mannaged
them is worthy remembrance. And therefore in respect of the couragious
attempt and valiant enterprise of the ship called the Primrose of London,
which hath obteined renowne, I haue taken in hande to publish the trueth
thereof, to the intent that it may be generally knowen to the rest of the
English ships, that by the good example of this the rest may in time of
extremitie aduenture to doe the like: to the honor of the Realme, and the
perpetuall remembrance of themselues: The maner whereof was at followeth.

Vppon Wednesday being the sixe and twentieth day of May 1585, the shippe
called the Primrose being of one hundred and fiftie tunnes, lying without
the bay of Bilbao, hauing beene there two dayes, there came a Spanish
pinnesse to them, wherein was the Corrigidor and sixe others with him:
these came aboord the Primrose, seeming to be Marchantes of Biscay, or such
like, bringing Cherries with them, and spake very friendly to the Maister
of the ship, whose name was Foster, and he in courteous wise, bad them
welcome, making them the best cheere that he could with beere, beefe, and
bisket, wherewith that ship was well furnished: and while they were thus in
banquetting with the Maister, foure of the seuen departed in the sayd
Pinnesse, and went backe againe to Bilbao: the other three stayed, and were
very pleasant for the time. But Master Foster misdoubting some danger
secretly gaue speech that he was doubtfull of these men what their intent
was; neuerthelesse he sayd nothing, nor seemed in any outward wise to
mistrust them at all. Foorthwith there came a ship-boate wherein were
seuentie persons being Marchants and such like of Biscay: and besides this
boate, there came also the Pinnesse which before had brought the other
three, in which Pinnesse there came foure and twentie, as the Spaniards
themselues since confessed. These made towards the Primrose, and being come
thither, there came aboord the Corrigidor with three or foure of his men:
but Master Foster seeing this great multitude desired that there might no
more come aboord, but that the rest should stay in their boates, which was
granted: neuerthelesse they tooke small heede of these wordes; for on a
suddaine they came foorth of the boate, entring the shippe, euery Spaniarde
taking him to his Rapier which they brought in the boate, with other
weapons, and a drumme wherewith to triumph ouer them. Thus did the
Spaniards enter the shippe, plunging in fiercely vpon them, some planting
themselues vnder the decke, some entring the Cabbens, and the multitude
attending their pray. Then the Corrigidor hauing an officer with him which
bore a white wand in his hand, sayd to the master of the ship: Yeeld your
selfe, for you are the kings prisoner: whereat the Maister sayd to his men,
We are betrayed. Then some of them set daggers to his breast, and seemed in
furious manner as though they would haue slaine him, meaning nothing lesse
then to doe any such act, for all that they sought was to bring him and his
men safe aliue to shore. Whereat the Maister was amazed, and his men
greatly discomfited to see themselues readie to be conueyed euen to the
slaughter: notwithstanding some of them respecting the daunger of the
Maister, and seeing how with themselues there was no way but present death
if they were once landed among the Spaniards, they resolued themselues
eyther to defend the Maister, and generally to shunne that daunger, or else
to die and be buried in the middest of the sea, rather then to suffer
themselues to come into the tormentors hands: and therefore in very bold
and manly sort some tooke them to their iauelings, lances, bore-speares,
and shot, which they had set in readinesse before, and hauing fiue
Calieuers readie charged, which was all the small shot they had, those that
were vnder the hatches or the grate did shoote vp at the Spaniards that
were ouer their heads, which shot so amazed the Spaniards on the suddaine,
as they could hardly tell which way to escape the daunger, fearing this
their small shot to be of greater number then it was: others in very
manlike sort dealt about among them, shewing themselues of that courage
with bore-speares and lances, that they dismayed at euery stroke two or
three Spaniards. Then some of them desired the Maister to commaund his men
to cease and holde their handes, but hee answered that such was the courage
of the English Nation in defence of their owne liues, that they would slay
them and him also: and therefore it lay not in him to doe it. Now did their
blood runne about the ship in great quantitie, some of them being shot in
betweene the legges, the bullets issuing foorth at their breasts, some cut
in the head, some thrust into the bodie, and many of them very sore
wounded, so that they came not so fast in on the one side, but now they
tumbled as fast ouer boord on both sides with their weapons in their
handes, some falling into the sea, and some getting into their boates,
making haste towardes the Citie. And this is to be noted, that although
they came very thicke thither, there returned but a small companie of them,
neither is it knowen as yet how many of them were slaine or drowned, onely
one English man was then slaine, whose name was Iohn Tristram, and sixe
other hurt. It was great pitie to behold how the Spaniards lay swimming in
the sea, and were not able to saue their liues. Foure of them taking hold
of the shippe were for pities sake taken vp againe by Maister Foster and
his men, not knowing what they were: all the Spaniards bosomes were stuft
with paper, to defend them from the shot, and these foure hauing some
wounds were dressed by the surgion of the shippe. One of them was the
Corrigidor himselfe, who is gouernour of a hundred Townes and Cities in
Spaine, his liuing by his office being better then sixe hundred pound
yerely. This skirmish happened in the euening about sixe of the clocke,
after they had laden twenty Tunne of goods and better out of the sayd ship:
which goods were deliuered by two of the same ship, whose names were Iohn
Burrell and Iohn Brodbanke, who being on shore were apprehended and stayed.

[Sidenote: The Corrigidor of Bilbao taken and brought to London.] After
this valiant enterprise of eight and twentie English men against 97
Spaniards, they saw it was in vaine for them to stay, and therefore set vp
sayles, and by Gods prouidence auoyded all daunger, brought home the rest
of their goods, and came thence with all expedition: and (God be thanked)
arriued safely in England neere London on Wednesday being the 8 day of Iune
1585. In which their returne to England the Spaniards that they brought
with them offered fiue hundred crownes to be set on shore in any place:
which, seeing the Maister would not doe, they were content to be ruled by
him and his companie, and craued mercie at their hands. And after Master
Foster demaunded why they came in such sort to betray and destroy them, the
Corrigidor answered, that it was not done onely of themselues, but by the
commandement of the king himselfe; and calling for his hose which were wet,
did plucke foorth the kings Commission, by which he was authorized to doe
all that he did: the Copie whereof followeth, being translated out of
Spanish.


The Spanish kings commision for the generall imbargment or arrest of the
  English, &c.

Licentiat de Escober, my Corigidor of my Signorie of Biskay, I haue caused
a great fleete to be put in readinesse in the hauen of Lisbone, and the
riuer of Siuill. There is required for the Souldiers, armour, victuals, and
munition, that are to be imployed in the same great store of shipping of
all series against the time of seruice, and to the end there may be choise
made of the best, vpon knowledge of their burden and goodnesse; I doe
therefore require of you, that presently vpon the arriuall of this carrier,
and with as much dissimulation as may be (that the matter may not be knowen
vntill it be put into execution) you take order for the staying and
arresting (with great foresight) of all the shipping that may be found vpon
the coast, and in the portes of the sayd Signorie, excepting none of
Holand, Zeland, Easterland, Germanie, England, and other Prouinces that are
in rebellion against mee, sauing those of France which being litle, and of
small burden and weake, are thought vnfit to serue the turne. And the stay
being thus made, you shall haue a speciall care that such marchandize as
the sayd shippes or hulkes haue brought, whether they be all or part
vnladen, may bee taken out, and that the armour, munition, tackels, sayles,
and victuals may be safely bestowed, as also that it may be well foreseene,
that none of the shippes or men escape away. Which things being thus
executed, you shall aduertise me by an expresse messenger, of your
proceeding therein: And send me a plaine and distinct declaration of the
number of shippes that you shall haue so stayed in that coast and partes,
whence euery one of them is, which belong to my Rebels, what burden and
goods there are, and what number of men is in euery of them, and what
quantitie they haue of armour, ordinance, munition, victuals, tacklings and
other necessaries, to the end that vpon sight hereof, hauing made choise of
such as shall be fit for the seruice, we may further direct you what ye
shall do. In the meane time you shall presently see this my commandment put
in execution, and if there come thither any more ships, you shall also
cause them to be stayed and arrested after the same order, vsing therein
such care and diligence, as may answere the trust that I repose in you,
wherein you shall doe me great seruice. Dated at Barcelona the 29 of May,
1585.

And thus haue you heard the trueth and manner thereof, wherein is to be
noted the great courage of the maister, and the louing hearts of the
seruants to saue their master from the daunger of death: yea, and the care
which the master had to saue so much of the owners goods as hee might,
although by the same the greatest is his owne losse in that he may neuer
trauell to those parts any more without the losse of his owne life, nor yet
any of his seruantes: for if hereafter they should, being knowen they are
like to taste of the sharpe torments which are there accustomed in their
Holy-house. And as for their terming English shippes to be in rebellion
against them, it is sufficiently knowen by themselues, and their owne
consciences can not denie it, but that with loue, vnitie, and concord, our
shippes haue euer beene fauoruable vnto them, and as willing to pleasure
their King, as his subiectes any way willing to pleasure English
passengers.

       *       *       *       *       *

The voiage of the right honorable George Erle of Cumberland to the Azores,
  &c. Written by the excellent Mathematician and Enginier master Edward
  Wright.

The right honorable the Erle of Cumberland hauing at his owne charges
prepared his small Fleet of foure Sailes onely, viz. The Victorie one of
the Queenes ships royall; the Meg and Margaret small ships, (one of which
also he was forced soone after to send home againe, finding her not able to
endure the Sea) and a small Carauell, and hauing assembled together about
400 men (or fewer) of gentlemen, souldiers, and saylers, embarked himself
and them, and set saile from the Sound of Plimmouth in Deuonshire, the 18
day of Iune 1589, being accompanied with these captaines and gentlemen
which hereafter folow.

Captaine Christopher Lister a man of great resolution, captaine Edward
Carelesse, _aliàs_ Wright, who in sir Francis Drakes West Indian voyage to
S. Domingo and Carthagena, was captaine of the Hope. Captaine Boswell, M.
Meruin, M. Henry Long, M. Partridge, M. Norton, M. William Mounson captaine
of the Meg, and his viceadmirall, now sir William Mounson, M. Pigeon
captaine of the Carauell.

About 3 dayes after our departure from Plimmouth we met with 3 French
ships, whereof one was of Newhauen, another of S. Malos, and so finding
them to be Leaguers and lawful Prises, we tooke them and sent two of them
for England with all their loding, which was fish for the most part from
New-found-land, sauing that there was part thereof distributed amongst our
small Fleet, as we could find Stowage for the same: and in the third, all
their men were sent home into France. The same day and the day folowing we
met with some other ships, whom (when after some conference had with them,
we perceiued plainly to bee of Roterodam and Emden, bound for Rochell) we
dismissed.

The 28 and 29 dayes we met diuers of our English ships, returning from the
Portugall voiage which my lord relieued with victuals. The 13 day of Iuly
being Sonday in the morning, we espied 11 ships without sight of the coast
of Spaine, in the height of 39 degrees, whom wee presently prepared for,
and prouided to meet them, hauing first set forth Captaine Mounson in the
Meg, before vs, to descry whence they were. The Meg approching neere, there
passed some shot betwixt them, whereby, as also by their Admiral and
Vice-admirall putting foorth their flags, we perceiued that some fight was
likely to follow. Having therefore fitted our selues for them, we made what
hast we could towards them with regard alwayes to get the wind of them, and
about 10 or 11 of the clocke, we came vp to them with the Victory. But
after some few shot and some litle fight passed betwixt vs, they yeelded
themselues, and the masters of them all came aboord vs, shewing their
seueral Pasports from the cities of Hamburg and Lubeck, from Breme,
Pomerania and Calice.

They had in them certaine bags of Pepper and Synamon, which they confessed
to be the goods of the Iew in Lisbon, which should haue bene carried by
them into their countrey to his Factor there, and so finding it by their
owne confession to be lawful Prise, the same was soone after taken and
diuided amongst our whole company, the value wherof was esteemed to be
about 4500 pounds, at two shillings the pound.

The 17 day the foresaid ships were dismissed, but 7 of their men that were
willing to go along with vs for sailers, we tooke to help vs, and so held
on our course for the Azores.

The 1 of August being Friday in the morning, we had sight of the Iland of
S. Michael, being one of the Eastermost of the Azores toward which we
sailed all that day, and at night hauing put foorth a Spanish flag in our
main-top, that so they might the lesse suspect vs, we approched neere to
the chiefe towne and road of that Iland, where we espied 3 ships riding at
anker and some other vessels: all which we determined to take in the darke
of the night, and accordingly attempted about 10 or 11 of the clocke,
sending our boats well manned to cut their cables and hausers, and let them
driue into the sea. Our men comming to them, found the one of those
greatest ships was the Falcon of London being there vnder a Scottish Pilot
who bare the name of her as his own. [Sidenote: 3 ships forcibly towed our
of harbour.] But 3 other smal ships that lay neere vnder the castle there,
our men let loose and towed them away vnto vs, most of the Spaniards that
were in them leaping ouer-boord and swimming to shore with lowd and
lamentable outcries, which they of the towne hearing were in an vprore, and
answered with the like crying. The castle discharged some great shot at our
boats, but shooting without marke by reason of the darknesse they did vs no
hurt. The Scots likewise discharged 3 great pieces into the aire to make
the Spaniards thinke they were their friends and our enemies, and shortly
after the Scottish master, and some other with him, came aboord to my lord
doing their dutie, and offering their seruice, &c. These 3 ships were
fraught with wine and Sallet-oile from Siuil.

The same day our Carauel chased a Spanish Carauel to shore at S. Michael,
which caried letters thither, by which we learned that the Caraks were
departed from Tercera 8 dayes before.

The 7 of August we had sight of a litle ship which wee chased towards
Tercera with our pinasse (the weather being calme) and towards euening we
ouertooke her, there were in her 30 tunnes of good Madera wine, certaine
woollen cloth, silke, taffata, &c. The 14 of August we came to the Iland of
Flores, where we determined to take in some fresh water and fresh victuals,
such as the Iland did affoord. So we manned our boats with some 120 men and
rowed towards the shore; whereto when we approched the inhabitants that
were assembled at the landing place, put foorth a flag of truce, whereupon
we also did the like.

When we came to them, my Lord gaue them to vnderstand by his Portugall
interpreter, that he was a friend to their king Don Antonio, and came not
any way to iniury them, but that he meant onely to haue some fresh water
and fresh victuals of them, by way of exchange for some prouision that he
had, as oile, wine, or pepper, to which they presently agreed willingly,
and sent some of their company for beeues and sheepe, and we in the meane
season marched Southward about a mile to Villa de Santa Cruz, from whence
all the inhabitants yong and old were departed, and not any thing of value
left. We demanding of them what was the cause hereof, they answered, Feare;
as their vsuall maner was when any ships came neere their coast.

We found that part of the Iland to be full of great rockie barren hils and
mountains, litle inhabited by reason that it is molested with ships of war
which might partly appeare by this towne of Santa Cruz (being one of their
chiefe townes) which was all ruinous, and (as it were) but the reliques of
the ancient towne which had bene burnt about two yeeres before by certaine
English ships of war, as the inhabitants there reported.

At euening as we were in rowing towards the Victory, an huge fish pursued
vs for the space of well nigh of two miles together, distant for the most
part from the boats sterne not a speares length, and sometimes so neere
that the boat stroke vpon him, the tips of whose finnes about the ghils
(appearing oft times aboue the water) were by estimation 4 or 5 yards
asunder, and his iawes gaping a yard and a halfe wide, which put vs in
feare of ouerturning the pinnasse, but God be thanked (rowing as hard as we
could) we escaped.

When we were about Flores a litle ship called the Drake, brought vs word
that the Caraks were at Tercera, of which newes we were very glad, and sped
vs thitherward with all the speed we could: and by the way we came to Fayal
road the seuen and twentieth day of August after sunne set, where we espied
certaine shippes ryding at anker, to whom we sent in our Skiffe with
Captaine Lister and Captaine Monson in her to discouer the roaders: and
least any daunger should happen to our boate, we sent in likewise the
Sawsie Iack and the small Carauell; but the wind being off the shoare, the
shippes were not able to fet it so nigh as the Spaniards ride, which
neuerthelesse the boate did, and clapped a shippe aboord of two hundred and
fiftie tunnes, which caried in her fourteene cast peeces, and continued
fight alone with her for the space of one houre vntill the comming vp of
other boates to the reskue of her, which were sent from the shippes, and
then a fresh boording her againe one boate in the quarter, another in the
hause, we entred her on the one side, and all the Spaniards lept ouerboord
on the other, saue Iuan de Palma the Captaine of her and two or three more,
and thus we became possessors of her. This shippe was mored to the Castle
which shot at vs all this while: the onely hurt which we receiued of all
this shot was this, that the master of our Carauell had the calfe of his
legge shot away. This shippe was laden with Sugar, Ginger, and hides lately
come from S. Iuan de Puerto Rico; after we had towed her cleare off the
castle, we rowed in againe with our boats, and fetched out fiue small ships
more, one laden with hides, another with Elephants teeth, graines,
coco-nuts, and goates skins come from Guinie, another with woad, and two
with dogge-fish, which two last we let driue into the sea making none
account of them. The other foure we sent for England the 30 of August.

At the taking of these Prizes were consorted with vs some other small men
of warre, as Maister Iohn Dauis with his shippe, Pinnesse, and Boate,
Captaine Markesburie with his ship, whose owner was Sir Walter Ralegh, the
Barke of Lime, which was also consorted with vs before.

[Sidenote: An eescape of 8 Englishmen from Tercera.] The last of August in
the morning we came in sight of Tercera, being about some nine or ten
leagues from shoare, where we espied comming toward vs, a small boat vnder
saile, which seemed somewhat strange vnto vs, being so farre from lande,
and no shippe in sight, to which they might belong; but comming neere, they
put vs out of doubt, shewing they were English men (eight in number) that
had lately bene prisoners in Tercera, and finding opportunitie to escape at
that time, with that small boat committed themselues to the sea, vnder Gods
prouidence, hauing no other yard for their maine saile, but two pipe staues
tyed together by the endes, and no more prouision of victuals, then they
could bring in their pockets and bosomes. Hauing taken them all into the
Victorie, they gaue vs certaine intelligence, that the Carackes were
departed from thence about a weeke before.

Thus beeing without any further hope of those Caraks, we resolued to
returne for Fayall, with intent to surprize the towne, but vntill the ninth
of September, we had either the winde so contrary, or the weather so calme,
that in all that time, we made scarce nine or ten leagues way, lingring vp
and downe not farre from Pico.

The tenth of September being Wednesday in the afternoone, wee came again to
Fayal roade. Whereupon immediatly my Lord sent Captaine Lister, with one of
Graciosa (whom Capatine Munson had before taken) and some others, towards
Fayal, whom certaine of the Inhabitants met in a boat, and came with
Captaine Lister to my Lord, to whom hee gaue this choice: either to suffer
him quietly to enter into the platforme there without resistance, where he
and his companie would remaine a space without offering any iniurie to
them, that they (the Inhabitants) might come vnto him and compound for the
ransome of the Towne; or else to stand to the hazard of the warre.

With these words they returned to the towne: but the keepers of the
platforme answered, that it was against their oath and allegeance to king
Philip to giue ouer without fight. Whereupon my Lord commanded the boates
of euery ship, to be presently manned, and soone after landed his men on
the sandie shoare, vnder the side of an hill, about halfe a league to the
Northwards from the platforme: vpon the toppe of which hill certaine
horsemen and footmen shewed themselues, and other two companies also
appeared, with ensignes displayed, the one before the towne vpon the shore
by the sea side, which marched towards our landing place, as though they
would encounter vs; the other in a valley to the Southwards of the
platforme, as if they would haue come to helpe the Townesmen: during which
time they in the platforme also played vpon vs with great Ordinance.
[Sidenote: The taking of the towne and platforme of Fayal.] Notwithstanding
my L. (hauing set his men in order) marched along the sea shore, vpon the
sands, betwixt the sea and the towne towards the platforme for the space of
a mile or more, and then the shore growing rockie, and permitting no
further progresse without much difficultie, he entred into the towne and
passed through the street without resistance, vnto the platforme; for those
companies before mentioned at my Lo. approching, were soone dispersed, and
suddenly vanished.

Likewise they of the platforme, being all fled at my Lordes comming
thither, left him and his company to scale the walles, to enter and take
possession without resistance.

In the meane time our shippes ceased not to batter the foresaid Towne and
Platforme with great shotte, till such time as we saw the Red-Crosse of
England flourishing vpon the Forefront thereof.

[Sidenote: A description of the towne of Faial.] This Fayal is the
principal towne in all that is land, and is situate directly ouer against
the high and mighty mountaine Pico, lying towards the West Northwest from
that mountaine, being deuided therefrom by a narrow Sea, which at that
place is by estimation about some two or three leagues in bredth betweene
the Isles of Fayal and Pico.

The towne conteyned some three hundred housholds, their houses were faire
and strongly builded of lime and stone, and double couered with hollow
tyles much like our roofe tyles, but that they are lesse at the one end
then at the other.

Euery house almost had a cisteme or well in a garden on the backe side: in
which gardens grew vines (with ripe clusters of grapes) making pleasant
shadowes, and Tabacco nowe commonly knowen and vsed in England, wherewith
their women there dye their faces reddish, to make them seeme fresh and
young: Pepper Indian and common; figge-trees bearing both white and red
figges: Peach trees not growing very tall: Orenges, Limons, Quinces,
Potato-roots, &c. Sweete wood (Cedar I thinke) is there very common, euen
for building and firing.

My Lord hauing possessed himselfe of the towne and platforme, and being
carefull of the preseruation of the towne, gaue commandement, that no
mariner or souldier should enter into any house, to make any spoyle
thereof. But especially he was carefull that the Churches and houses of
religion there should be kept inuiolate, which was accordingly performed,
through his appointment of guarders and keepers for those places: but the
rest of the towne eyther for want of the former inhibition, or for desire
of spoyle and prey, was rifled, and ransacked by the souldiers and
mariners, who scarcely left any house vnsearched, out of which they tooke
such things as liked them, as chestes of sweete wood, chaires, cloth,
couerlets, hangings, bedding, apparell: and further ranged into the
countrey, where some of them also were hurt by the inhabitants. The Friery
there conteyning and maintayning thirty Franciscan Friars (among whom we
could not finde any one able to speake true Latine) was builded by a Fryer
of Angra in Tercera of the same order, about the yeare of our Lord one
thousand fiue hundred and sixe. The tables in the hall had seates for the
one side onely, and were alwayes couered, as readie at all times for dinner
or supper.

From Wednesday in the afternoone, at which time we entred the towne, til
Saturday night, we continued there, vntill the Inhabitants had agreed and
payed for the ransome of the towne, two thousand duckats, most part whereof
was Church-plate.

We found in the platfonne eight and fiftie yron peeces of Ordinance,
whereof three and twentie (as I remember) or more were readie mounted vpon
their carriages, betweene Barricadoes, vpon a platforme towardes the
sea-side, all which Ordinance we tooke, and set the platforme on fire, and
so departed: My Lord hauing inuited to dinner in the Victorie, on the
Sunday following, so many of the Inhabitants as would willingly come (saue
onely Diego Gomes the Gouernour, who came but once onely to parle about the
ransome) onely foure came and were well entertained, and solemnely
dismissed with sound of drumme and trumpets, and a peale of Ordinance: to
whom my Lord deliuered his letter subscribed with his owne hand, importing
a request ['repuest' in source text--KTH] to all other Englishmen to
abstaine from any further molesting them, saue onely for fresh water, and
victuals necessary for their intended voyage. During our abode here (viz.
the 11 of September) two men came out of Pico which had beene prisoners
there: Also at Fayal we set at libertie a prisoner translated from S. Iago
who was cousin to a seruant of Don Anthonio king of Portugall in England:
These prisoners we deteyned with vs.

On Munday we sent our boates ashore for fresh water, which (by reason of
the raine that fell the former night) came plentifully running downe the
hilles, and would otherwise haue beene hard to be gotten there. On Tuesday
likewise hauing not yet suffiently serued our turnes, we sent againe for
fresh water, which was then not so easie to be gotten as the day before, by
reason of a great winde: which in the afternoone increased also in such
sort, that we thought it not safe to ride so neere the land; whereupon we
weyed anker and so departed Northwest and by west, alongst the coast of
Fayal Island. Some of the Inhabitants comming aboord to vs this day, tolde
vs that always about that time of the yeere such windes West Southwest blew
on that coast.

This day, as we sayled neere Saint Georges Island, a huge fish lying still
a litle vnder water, or rather euen therewith, appeared hard by a head of
vs, the sea breaking vpon his backe, which was blacke coloured, in such
sort as deeming at the first it had beene a rocke, and the ship stemming
directly with him, we were put in a sudden feare for the time: till soone
after we saw him moue out of the way.

The 16 of September in the nigh it lightened much, whereupon there followed
great winds and raine which continued the 17 18 19-20 and 21 of the same.
The 23 of September we came againe into Faial road to weigh an anker which
(for haste and feare of foule weather) wee had left there before, where we
went on shore to see the towne, the people (as we thought) hauing now
setled themselues there againe, but notwithstanding many of them through
too much distrustfulnesse, departed and prepared to depart with their
packets at the first sight of vs: vntill such time as they were assured by
my Lord, that our comming was not any way to iniury them, but especially to
haue fresh water, and some other things needeful for vs, contenting them
for the same.

So then we viewed the Towne quietly, and bought such things as we desired
for our money as if we had bene in England. And they helped to fill vs in
fresh water, receiuing for their paines such satisfaction as contented
them.

The 25 day we were forced againe to depart from thence, before we had
sufficiently watered, by reason of a great tempest that suddenly arose in
the night, in so much, that my Lord himselfe soone after midnight raysed
our men out of itheir Cabines to wey anker, himselfe also together with
them haling at the Capsten, and after chearing them vp with wine.

The next day we sent our Carauel and the Sawsie-Iack to the road of Saint
Michael, to see what they could espie: we following after them vpon the 27
day, plying to and fro, came within sight of S. Michael, but by contrary
windes the 28 29 and 30 dayes wee were driuen to leewarde, and could not
get neere the Island.

The first of October wee sayled alongst Tercera, and euen against Brasill
(a promontorie neere to Angra the strongest Towne in that Island) wee
espied some boates comming to the Towne, and made out towardes them: but
being neere to the lande they ranne to shoare and escaped vs.

In the afternoone we came neere to Graciosa, whereupon my Lord foorthwith
sent Captain Lister to the Ilanders, to let them vnderstand that his desire
was onely to haue water and wine of them, and some fresh victuals, and not
any further to trouble them. They answered they could giue no resolute
answere to this demande, vntill the Gouernors of the Iland had consulted
therevpon, and therefore desired him to send againe to them the next day.

Vpon the second day of October eariy in the morning, we sent forth our long
boat and Pinnesse, with emptie Caske, and about some fiftie or sixty men
together with the Margaret, and Captaine Dauis his shippe: for we now
wanted all the rest of our consortes. But when our men would haue landed,
the Ilanders shot at them, and would not suffer them. And troupes of men
appeared vpon land, with ensignes displayed to resist vs: So our boates
rowed alongst the shoare, to finde some place where they might land, not
with too much disaduantage: our shippes and they still shooting at the
Ilanders: but no place could be founde where they might land without great
perill of loosing many of their liues, and so were constrayned to retire
without receiuing any answere, as was promised the day before. We had three
men hurt in this conflict, whilest our boates were together in consulting
what was best to be done: two of them were stroken with a great shot (which
the Ilanders drew from place to place with Oxen) wherewith the one lost his
hand, and the other his life within two or three dayes after: the third was
shot into his necke with a small shot, without any great hurt.

With these newes our company returned backe againe at night, whereupon
preparation was made to goe to them againe the next day: but the daye was
farre spent before we could come neere them with our ship: neither could we
finde any good ground to anker in, where we might lye to batter the Towne,
and further we could finde no landing place, without great danger to loose
many men: which might turne not only to the ouerthrow of our voiage, but
also put the Queenes ship in great perill for want of men to bring her
home. Therefore my Lord thought it best to write to them to this efiect:
That he could not a litle maruell at their inhumanitie and crueltie which
they had shewed towards his men, seeing they were sent by him vnto them in
peaceable manner to receiue their answere which they had promised to giue
the day before: and that were it not for Don Antonio their lawful king his
sake, he could not put vp so great iniury at their hands, without iust
reuengement vpon them: notwithstanding for Don Antonio his sake, whose
friend he was, he was yet content to send to them once againe for their
answere: At night Captaine Lister returned with this answere from them.
That their Gunner shot off one of their pieces, which was charged with
pouder onely, and was stopped; which our men thinking it had bin shot at
them, shot againe, and so beganne the fight: and that the next morning they
would send my Lord a resolute answere to his demaunde, for as yet they
could not knowe their Gouernours minde herein. The next morning there came
vnto vs a boate from the shoare with a flagge of truce, wherein were three
of the chiefe men of the Island, who agreed with my Lorde that hee should
haue of them sixtie buttes of wine, and fresh victuals to refresh himselfe
and his companie withall: but as for fresh water, they could not satisfie
our neede therein, hauing themselues little or none, sauing such as they
saued in vessels or cistrnes when it rayned, and that they had rather giue
vs two tunnes of wine then one of water: but they requested that our
souldiers might not come on shoare, for they themselues would bring all
they had promised to the water-side, which request was graunted, we keeping
one of them aboord with vs, untill their promise was performed, and the
other we sent to shoare with our emptie Caske, and some of our men to helpe
to fill, and bring them away with such other prouision as was promised: so
the Margaret, Captaine Dauis his shippe, and another of Weymouth stayed
ryding at anker before the Towne, to take in our prouision. This shippe of
Weymouth came to vs the day before, and had taken a rich Prize (as it was
reported) worth sixteene thousand pound, which brought vs newes that the
West-Indian Fleete was not yet come, but would come very shortly. But we
with the Victorie put off to sea, and vpon Saturday the fourth of October,
we tooke a French shippe of Saint Malo (a citie of the vnholy league) loden
with fish from Newfoundland: which had beene in so great a tempest, that
she was constrayned to cut her mayne mast ouerboord for her safetie, and
was now comming to Graciosa, to repaire her selfe. But so hardly it befell
her, that she did not onely not repaire her former losses, but lost all
that remayned vnto vs. The chiefe of our men we tooke into our ship, and
sent some of our men, mariners, and souldiers into her to bring her into
England.

Vpon the Sunday following at night, all our promised prouision was brought
vnto vs from Gratiosa: and we friendly dismissed the Ilanders with a peale
of Ordinance.

Vpon Munday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, we plyed to and fro about those
Islandes, being very rough weather. And vpon Thursday at night, being
driuen some three or foure leagues from Tercera, we saw fifteene saile of
the West-Indian Fleete comming into the Hauen at Angra in Tercera. But the
winde was such, that for the space of foure dayes after, though wee lay as
close by the winde as was possible, yet we could not come neere them. In
this time we lost our late French Prize, not being able to lie so neere the
winde as we, and heard no more of her till we came to England where shee
safely arrriued. Vpon Munday we came very neere the Hauens month, being
minded to haue runne in amongst them, and to haue fetched out some of them
if it had beene possible: But in the end this enterprise was deemed too
daungerous, considering the strength of the place where they rode, being
haled and towed in neerer the towne, at the first sight of our approching,
and lying vnder the protection of the Castle of Brasil, on the one side
(hauing in it fiue and twentie peeces of Ordinance) and a fort on the other
side wherein were 13 or 14 great brasse pieces. Besides, when we came neere
land the winde prooued too scant for vs to attempt any such enterprise.

Vpon Tuesday the fourteenth of October we sent our boate to the roade to
sound the depth, to see if there were any ankoring place for vs, where we
might lie without shot of the Castle and Fort, and within shot of some of
those shippes, that we might either make them come out to vs, or sinke them
where they lay. Our boate returned hauing found out such a place as we
desired, but the winde would not suffer vs to come neere it, and againe if
we could haue ankered there, it was thought likely that they would rather
runne themselues a ground to saue their liues and liberties, and some of
their goods, then come foorth to loose their liberties and goods to vs
their enemies. So we shot at them to see if we could reach them, but it
fell farre short. And thus we departed, thinking it not probable that they
would come foorth so long as we watched for them before the hauens mouth,
or within sight of them. For the space of fiue dayes after we put off to
sea, and lay without sight of them, and sent a pinnesse to lie out of sight
close by the shore, to bring vs word if they should come foorth. After a
while the Pinnesse returned and told vs that those shippes in the Hauen had
taken downe their sayles, and let downe their toppe mastes: so that wee
supposed they would neuer come foorth, till they perceiued vs to bee quite
gone.

Wherefore vpon the 20 of October, hearing that there were certaine Scottish
ships at Saint Michael, we sayled thither, and found there one Scottish
roader, and two or three more at Villa Franca, the next road a league or
two from the towne of S. Michael, to the Eastwards: of whom we had for our
reliefe some small quantitie of wine (viz. some fiue or sixe buttes of them
all) and some fresh water, but nothing sufficient to serue our turne.

Vpon Tuesday the one and twentieth of October, we sent our long boate to
shore for fresh water at a brooke a little to the Westwards from Villa
Franca.

But the Inhabitants espying vs came downe with two Ensignes displayed, and
about some hundred and fiftie men armed, to withstand our landing. So our
men hailing spent all their pouder vpon them in attempting to land, and not
being able to preuaile at so great oddes, returned frustrate.

From thence we departed towards Saint Maries Iland, minding to water there,
and then to goe for the coast of Spaine. For we had intelligence that it
was a place of no great force, and that we might water there very well:
therefore vpon Friday following, my Lord sent Captaine Lister, and Captaine
Amias Preston now Sir Amias Preston (who not long before came to vs out of
his owne shippe, and she loosing vs in the night, hee was forced to tarry
still with vs) with our long boate and Pinnesse, and some sixtie or
seuentie shotte in them, with a friendly letter to the Ilanders, that they
would grant vs leaue to water, and we would no further trouble them.

So we departed from the Victorie for the Iland, about nine of the clocke in
the afternoone, and rowed freshly vntill about 3 a clocke afternoone. At
which time our men being something weary with rowing, and being within a
league or two of the shore, and 4 or 5 leagues from the Victorie, they
espied (to their refreshing), two shippes ryding at anker hard vnder the
the towns, whereupon hauing shifted some 6 or 7 of our men into Captaine
Dauis his boate, being too much pestered in our owne, and retayning with vs
some 20 shot in the pinnesse, we made way towardes them with all the speede
we could.

By the way as we rowed we saw boates passing betwixt the roaders and the
shore, and men in their shirtes swimming and wading to shoare, who as we
perceiued afterwardes, were labouring to set those shippes fast on ground,
and the Inhabitants as busily preparing themselues for the defence of those
roaders, their Iland, and themselues. When we came neere them, Captaine
Lister commaunded the Trumpets to be sounded, but prohibited any shot to be
discharged at them, vntill they had direction from him: But some of the
companie, either not well perceiuing or regarding what he sayd, immediately
vpon the sound of the Trumpets discharged their pieces at the Islanders;
which for the most part lay in trenches and fortefied places vnseene, to
their owne best aduantage: who immediatly shot likewise at vs, both with
small and great shot, without danger to themselues: Notwithstanding
Captaine Lister earnestly hastened forward the Saylers that rowed, who
beganne to shrinke at that shot, flying so fast about their eares, and
himselfe first entring one of the shippes that lay a litle further from
shoare then the other, we spedily followed after him into her, still plying
them with our shot And hauing cut in sunder her Cables and Hausers, towed
her away with our Pinnesse. In the meane time Captaine Dauis his boate
ouertooke vs and entred into the other shippe, which also (as the former)
was forsaken by all her men: but they were constrayned to leaue her and to
come againe into their boate (whilest shot and stones from shoare flew fast
amongst them) finding her to sticke so fast a grounde, that they could not
stire her: which the Townesmen also perceiuing, and seeing that they were
fewe in number, and vs (busied about the other ship) not comming to ayde
them, were preparing to haue come and taken them. But they returned vnto
vs, and so together we came away towards the Victory, towing after vs the
Prize that we had now taken, which was lately come from Brasil, loden with
Sugar.

In this fight we had two men slaine and 16 wounded: and as for them, it is
like they had little hurt, lying for the most part behind stone walles,
which were builded one aboue another hard by the sea side, vpon the end of
the hill whereupon the Towne stoode betwixt two vallies. Vpon the toppe of
the hill lay their great Ordinance (such as they had) wherewith they shot
leaden bullets, whereof one pierced through our Prizes side, and lay still
in the shippe without doing any more harme.

The next day we went againe for water to the same Iland, but not knowing
before the inconuenience and disuaduantage of the place where we attempted
to land, we returned frustrate.

The same night the 25 of October we departed for S. Georges Iland for fresh
water, whither we came on Munday following October 27, and hauing espied
where a spout of water came running downe: the pinnesse and long boate were
presently manned and sent vnder the conduct of Captaine Preston, and
Captaine Munson, by whom my Lord sent a letter to the Ilanders as before,
to grant vs leaue to water onely, and we would no further trouble them:
notwithstanding our men comming on shoare found some of the poore Ilanders,
which for feare of vs hid themselues amongst the rockes.

And on Wednesday following our boats returned with fresh water, whereof
they brought only sixe tunnes for the Victorie, alleaging they could get no
more, thinking (as it was supposed) that my Lord hauing no more prouision
of water and wine, but onely 12 tunnes, would not goe for the coast of
Spaine, but straight for the coast of England, as many of our men greatly
desired: notwithstanding my Lord was vnwilling so to doe, and was minded
the next day to haue taken in more water: but through roughnesse of the
seas and winde, and vnwillingnesse of his men it was not done. Yet his Hon.
purposed not to returne with so much prouision vnspent, and his voyage (as
he thought) not yet performed in such sort as mought giue some reasonable
contentment or satisfaction to himselfe and others.

Therefore because no more water could now conueniently be gotten, and being
vncertaine when it could be gotten, and the time of our staying aboord also
vncertaine, the matter being referred to the choyse of the whole companie,
whither they would tarrie longer, till wee might be more sufficiently
prouided of fresh water, or goe by the coast of Spaine for England, with
halfe so much allowance of drinke as before, they willingly agreed that
euery mease should bee allowed at one meale but halfe so much drinke as
they were accustomed (except them that were sicke or wounded) and so to goe
for England, taking the coast of Spaine in our way, to see if we could that
way make vp our voyage.

Vpon Saturday Octob. 31 we sent the Margaret (because she leaked much)
directly for England, together with the Prize of Brasile which we tooke at
S. Marie, and in them some of our hurt and wounded men or otherwise sicke
were sent home as they desired for England: but Captaine Monson was taken
out of the Megge into the Victorie.

So we held on our course for the coast of Spaine with a faire winde and a
large which before we seldome had. And vpon Twesday following being the 4
of Nouemb. we espied a saile right before vs, which we chased till about
three a clocke in the afternoone, at which time we ouertaking her, she
stroke sayle, and being demaunded who was her owner and from whence she
was, they answered, a Portugall, and from Pernanbucke in Brasile. She was a
ship of some 110 tuns burden, fraighted with 410 chestes of Sugar, and 50
Kintals, of Brasill-wood, euery Kintall contayning one hundred pound
weight: we tooke her in latitude nine and twentie degrees, about two
hundred leagues from Lisbone westwards: Captaine Preston was presently sent
vnto her, who brought the principall of her men aboord the Victorie, and
certaine of our men, mariners and souldiers were sent aboord her. The
Portugals of this Prize told vs that they saw another ship before them that
day about noone. Hauing therefore dispatched all things about the Prize
aforesaid and left our long boat with Captaine Dauis, taking his lesser
boat with vs, we made way after this other ship with all the sayles we
could beare, holding on our course due East, and giuing order to Captaine
Dauis his ship and the Prize that they should follow vs due East, and that
if they had sight of vs the morning following they should follow vs still:
if not they should goe for England.

The next morning we espied not the sayle which we chased,
and Captaine Dauis his ship and the Prize were behinde vs out of
sight: but the next Thursday the sixt of Nouember (being in
latitude 38 degrees 30 minutes, and about sixtie leagues from
Lisbone westwards) early in the morning Captaine Preston
descried a sayle some two or three leagues a head of vs, after
which we presently hastened our chase, and ouertooke her about
eight or nine of the clocke before noone. She came lately from
Saint Michaels roade, hauing beene before at Brasill loden with
Sugar and Brasile. Hauing sent our boat to them to bring some
of the chiefe of their men aboord the Victorie, in the meane time
whilest they were in comming to vs one out of the maine toppe
espied another saile a head some three or foure leagues from vs.
So immediately vpon the returne of our boate, hauing sent her
backe againe with some of our men aboord the prize, we pursued
speedily this new chase, with all the sayles we could packe on, and
about two a clocke in the afternoone ouertooke her: she had made
prouision to fight with vs, hauing hanged the sides of the shippe so
thicke with hides (wherewith especially she was loden) that musket
shot could not haue pearced them: but yer we had discharged
two great peeces of our Ordinance at her, she stroke sayle, and
approching neerer, we asking of whence they were, they answered
from the West-Indies, from Mexico, and Saint Iohn de Lowe
(truely called Vlhua.) This ship was of some three or foure
hundred tunnes, and had in her seuen hundred hides worth tenne
shillings a peece: sixe chests of Cochinell, euery chest houlding
one hundred pound weight, and euery pound worth sixe and
twenty shillings and eight pence, and certaine chests of Sugar
and China dishes, with some plate and siluer.

The Captaine of her was an Italian, and by his behauiour seemed to be a
graue, wise, and ciuill man: he had put an aduenture in this shippe fiue
and twentie thousand Duckats, Wee tooke him with certaine other of her
chiefest men (which were Spaniards) into the Victorie: and Captaine Lister
with so manie other of the chiefest of our Mariners, souldiers, and saylers
as were thought sufficient, to the number of 20. or thereabouts, were sent
into her. In the meane time (we staying) our other prizes which followed
after, came vp to vs. And nowe wee had our hands full and with ioy shaped
our course for England, for so it was thought meetest, hauing now so many
Portugals, Spaniards and Frenchmen amongst vs, that if we should haue taken
any more prizes afterwards, wee had not bene well able to haue manned them
without endangering our selues. So about six of the clocke in the
afternoone (when our other prize had ouertaken vs) wee set saile for
England. But our prizes not being able to beare vs company without sparing
them many of our sailes, which caused our ship to route and wallow, in such
sort that it was not onely very troublesome to vs, but, as it was thought,
would also haue put the maine Maste in danger of falling ouerboord: hauing
acquainted them with these inconueniences, we gaue them direction to keepe
their courses together, folowing vs, and so to come to Portsmouth. We tooke
this last prize in the latitude of 39. degrees, and about 46. leagues to
the Westwards from the Rocke.

She was one of those 16. ships which we saw going into the hauen at Angra
in Tercera, October 8. Some of the men that we tooke out of her tolde vs,
that whilest wee were plying vp and downe before that hauen, as before was
shewed, expecting the comming foorth of those shippes, three of the
greatest and best of them, at the appointment of the Gouernour of Tercera
were vnloden of their treasure and marchandize. And in euery of them were
put three hundred Souldiers, which were appointed to haue come to lay the
Victory aboord in the night, and take her: but when this should haue bene
done the Victory was gone out of their sight.

Now we went meerily before the winde with all the sailes we could beare,
insomuch that in the space of 24. houres, we sailed neere 47. leagues, that
is seuenscore English miles, betwixt Friday at noone and Saturday at noone
(notwithstanding the shippe was very foule, and much growne with long being
at Sea) which caused some of our company to make accompt they would see
what running at Tilt there should bee at Whitehall vpon the Queenes day.
Others were imagining what a Christmas they would keepe in England with
their shares of the prizes we had taken. But so it befell, that we kept a
colde Christmas with the Bishop and his clearks (rockes that lye to the
Westwards from Sylly, and the Westerne parts of England:) For soone after
the wind scanting came about to the Eastwards (the worst part of the
heauens for vs, from which the winde could blow) in such sort, that we
could not fetch any part of England. And hereupon also our allowance of
drinke, which was scant ynough before, was yet more scanted, because of the
scarcitie thereof in the shippe. So that now a man was allowed but halfe a
pinte at a meale, and that many times colde water, and scarce sweete.
Notwithstanding this was an happie estate in comparison of that which
followed: For from halfe a pinte we came to a quarter, and that lasted not
long either, so that by reason of this great scarsitie of drinke, and
contrarietie of winde, we thought to put into Ireland, there to relieue our
wants. But when wee came neere thither, lying at hull all night (tarrying
for the daylight of the next morning, whereby we might the safelyer bring
our ship into some conuenient harbour there) we were driuen so farre to
lee-ward, that we could fetch no part of Ireland, so as with heauie hearts
and sad cheare, wee were constreined to returne backe againe, and expect
till it should please God to send vs a faire winde either for England or
Ireland. In the meane time we were allowed euery man three or foure spoones
full of vineger to drinke at a meale: for other drinke we had none, sauing
onely at two or three meales, when we had in stead hereof as much wine,
which was wringed out of Winelees that remained. With this hard fare (for
by reason of our great want of drinke, wee durst eate but very litle) wee
continued for the space of a fortnight or thereabouts: Sauing that now and
then wee feasted for it in the meane time: And that was when there fell any
haile or raine: the haile-stones wee gathered vp and did eate them more
pleasantly then if they had bene the sweetest Comfits in the world; The
raine drops were so carefully saued, that so neere as wee coulde, not one
was lost in all our shippe. Some hanged vp sheetes tied with cordes by the
foure corners, and a weight in the midst that the water might runne downe
thither, and so be receiued into some vessel set or hanged vnderneth: Some
that wanted sheetes, hanged vp napkins, and cloutes, and watched them till
they were thorow wet, then wringing and sucking out the water. And that
water which fell downe and washed away the filth and soiling of the shippe,
trod vnder foote, as bad as running downe the kennell many times when it
raineth, was not lost. I warrant you, but watched and attended carefully
(yea sometimes with strife and contention) at euery scupper hole, and other
place where it ranne downe, with dishes, pots, cannes, and Iarres, whereof
some dranke hearty draughts, euen as it was, mud and all, without tarrying
to clense or settle it: Others. cleansed it first but not often, for it was
so thicke and went so slowly thorow, that they might ill endure to tary so
long, and were loth to loose too much of such precious stuffe: some licked
with their tongues (like dogges) the boards vnder feete, the sides, railes,
and Masts of the shippe: others that were more ingenious, fastened girdles
or ropes about the Mastes, dawbing tallow betwixt them and the Maste (that
the raine might not runne downe betweene) in such sort, that those ropes or
girdles hanging lower on the one side then of the other, a spout of leather
was fastened to the lowest part of them, that all the raine drops that came
running downe the Maste, might meete together at that place, and there be
receiued.

Hee that got a canne of water by these meanes was spoken of, sued to, and
enuied as a rich man. Quàm pulchrum digito monstrari et dicier hic est?
Some of the poore Spaniards that we had taken (who notwithstanding had the
same allowance that our owne men had) would come and craue of vs, for the
loue of God, but so much water as they could holde in the hollow of their
hand: and they had it, notwithstanding our great extremitie, to teach them
some humanitie instead of their accustomed barbaritie, both to vs and other
nations heretofore. They put also bullets of lead into their mouthes to
slake their thirst.

Now in euery corner of the shippe were heard the lamentable cries of sicke
and wounded men sounding wofully in our eares crying out and pitifully
complaining for want of drinke, being ready to die, yea many dying for
lacke thereof, so as by reason of this great extremite we lost many more
men, then wee had done all the voyage before: hauing before this time bene
so well and sufficiently prouided for, that we liued in maner as well and
healthfully, and died as few as if we had bene in England, whereas now
lightly euery day some were cast ouerboord.

But the second day of December 1589. was a festiuall day with vs, for then
it rained a good pace, and wee saued some pretie store of raine water
(though we were well wet for it, and that at midnight) and filled our skins
full besides: notwithstanding it were muddie and bitter with washing the
shippe, but (with some sugar which we had to sweeten it withall) it went
merrily downe, yet remembred we and wished for with all our hearts, many a
Conduit, pumpe, spring, and streame of cleare sweete running water in
England: And how miserable wee had accompted some poore soules whom we had
seene driuen for thirst to drinke thereof, and how happy we would now haue
thought our selues if we might haue had our fills of the same: yet should
we haue fared the better with this our poore feasting, if we might haue had
our meat and drinke (such and so much as it was) stand quietly before vs:
but beside all the former extremities, wee were so tossed and turmoiled
with such horrible stormie and tempestuous weather, that euery man had best
holde fast his Canne, cup, and dish in his hands, yea and himselfe too,
many times, by the ropes, railes, or sides of the ship or else he should
soone finde all vnder feet.

Herewith our maine saile was torne from the yarde and blowne ouerboord
quite away into the sea without recouery, and our other sailes so rent and
torne (from side to side some of them) that hardly any of them escaped
hole. The raging waues and foming surges of the sea came rowling like
mountaines one after another, and ouerraked the waste of the shippe like a
mightie riuer running ouer it, whereas in faire weather it was neere 20.
foote aboue the water, that nowe wee might cry out with the princely
Prophet Psalme 107. vers. 26. They mount vp to heauen, and descend to the
deepe, so that their soule melteth away for trouble: they reele too and
fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and all their cunning is gone. With
this extremitie of foule weather the ship was so tossed and shaken, that by
the craking noise it made, and by the leaking which was now much more than
ordinary, wee were in great feare it would haue shaken in sunder, so that
now also we had iust cause to pray a litle otherwise than the Poet, though
marring the verse, yet mending the meaning.

  Deus maris et Coeli, quid enim nisi vota supersunt,
    Soluere quassatae parcito membra ratis.

Notwithstanding it pleased God of his great goodnesse to deliuer vs out of
this great danger. Then forthwith a new maine saile was made and fastened
to the yard, and the rest repaired as time and place would suffer: which we
had no sooner done, but yet againe wee were troubled with as great an
extremitie as before so that againe we were like to haue lost our new maine
saile, had not Master William Antony the Master of the ship himselfe (when
none else would or durst) ventured with danger of drowning by creeping
along vpon the maine yarde (which was let downe close to the railes) to
gather it up out of the sea, and to fasten it thereto, being in the meane
while oft-times ducked ouer head and eares into the sea.

These stormes were so terrible, that there were some in our company which
confessed they had gone to seas for the space of 20. yeeres, and had neuer
seene the like, and vowed that if euer they returned safe home, they would
neuer come to sea againe.

The last of Nouember at night we met with an English ship, out of which
(because it was too late that night) it was agreed that we should haue had
the next morning two or three Tunnes of wine, which, as they said, was al
the prouision of drink they had, saue only a But or two, which they must
needs reserue for their owne vse: but after that, we heard of them no more,
till they were set on ground vpon the coast of Ireland, where it appeared
that they might haue spared vs much more then they pretended they could, so
as they might wel haue relieued our great necessities, and haue had
sufficient for themselues besides, to bring them into England.

The first of December at night we spake with another English ship, and had
some beere out of her, but not sufficient to cary vs into England, so that
wee were constrained to put into Ireland, the winde so seruing.

The next day we came to an anker, not far from the S. Kelmes vnder the land
and winde, where we were somewhat more quiet, but (that being no safe
harbour to ride in) the next morning wee went about to weigh anker, but
hauing some of our men hurt at the Capsten, wee were faine to giue ouer and
leaue it behinde, holding on our course to Ventrie hauen, where wee safely
arriued the same day, that place being a very safe and conuenient harbor
for vs, that now wee might sing as we had iust cause, They that go downe to
the sea, &c.

So soone as we had ankered here my Lord went foorthwith to shoare, and
brought presently fresh water and fresh victuals, as Muttons, pigges,
hennes, &c. to refresh his company withall. Notwithstanding himselfe had
lately bene very weake, and tasted of the same extremitie that his Company
did: For in the time of our former want, hauing a little fresh water left
him remaining in a pot, in the night it was broken, and the water drunke
and dried vp. Soone after the sicke and wounded men were carried to the
next principall Towne, called Dingenacush, being about three miles distant
from the foresaide hauen, where our shippe roade, to the Eastwards, that
there they might be the better refreshed, and had the Chirurgians dayly to
attend vpon them. Here we wel refreshed our selues whilest the Irish harpe
sounded sweetely in our eares, and here we, who for the former extremities
were in maner halfe dead, had our liues (as it were) restored vnto vs
againe.

This Dingenacush is the chiefe Towne in al that part of Ireland, it
consisteth but of one maine streete, from whence some smaller doe proceede
on either side. It hath had gates (as it seemeth) in times past at either
ende to open and shut as a Towne of warre, and a Castle also. The houses
are very strongly built with thicke stone walles, and narrow windowes like
vnto Castles: for as they confessed, in time of trouble, by reason of the
wilde Irish or otherwise, they vsed their houses for their defence as
Castles. The castle and all the houses in the Towne, saue foure, were won,
burnt, and ruinated by the Erle of Desmond.

These foure houses fortified themselues against him, and withstood him and
all his power perforce, so as he could not winne them.

There remaineth yet a thicke stone wall that passeth ouerthwart the midst
of the streete which was a part of their fortification. Notwithstanding
whilest they thus defended themselues, as some of them yet aliue confessed,
they were driuen to as great extremities as the Iewes, besieged by Titus
the Romane Emperour, insomuch that they were constrained to eat dead mens
carcases for hunger. The towne is nowe againe somewhat repaired, but in
effect there remaine but the ruines of the former Towne. Commonly they haue
no chimnies in their houses, excepting them of the better sort, so that the
smoake was very troublsom to vs, while we continued there; Their fewell is
turfes, which they haue very good, and whinnes or furres. There groweth
little wood thereabouts, which maketh building chargeable there: as also
want of lime (as they reported) which they are faine to fetch from farre,
when they haue neede thereof. But of stones there is store ynough, so that
with them they commonly make their hedges to part ech mans ground from
other: and the ground seemeth to be nothing else within but rockes and
stones; Yet it is very fruitfull and plentifull of grasse and graine, as
may appeare by the abundance of kine and cattell there: insomuch that we
had good muttons (though somewhat lesse then ours in England) for two
shillings or fiue groates a piece, good pigges and hennes for 3 pence a
piece.

The greatest want is industrious, paineful, and husbandly inhabitants to
till and trimme the ground: for the common sort, if they can prouide
sufficient to serue from hand to mouth, take no further care.

Of money (as it seemeth) there is very store amongst them, which perhaps
was the cause that made them double and triple the prizes of many things we
bought of them, more then they were before our comming thither.

Good land was here to be had for foure pence the Acre yeerely rent.
[Sidenote: Mines in Ireland.] There are Mines of Alome, Tinne, brasse, and
yron. Stones wee sawe there as cleare as Christall, naturally squared like
Diamonds.

That part of the Countrey is al full of great mountaines and hills, from
whence came running downe the pleasant streames of sweete fresh running
water. The natural hardnesse of the Nation appeareth in this, that their
small children runne vsually in the middest of Winter vp and downe the
streetes bare-foote and bare-legged, with no other apparell (many times)
saue onely a mantle to couer their nakednesse.

The chiefe Officer of their Towne they call their Soueraigne, who hath the
same office and authoritie among them that our Maiors haue with vs in
England, and hath his Sergeants to attend vpon him, and beare the Mace
before him as our Maiors.

We were first intertained at the Soueraignes house, which was one of those
4. that withstood the Erle of Desmond in his rebellion. They haue the same
forme of Common prayer word word in Latin, that we haue here in England.
Vpon the Sunday the Soueraigne commeth into the Church with his Sergeant
before him, and the Sheriffe and others of the Towne accompany him, and
there they kneele downe euery man by himselfe priuately to make his
prayers. After this they rise and go out of the Church againe to drinke,
which being done, they returne againe into the Church, and then the
Minister beginneth prayers.

Their maner of baptizing differeth something from ours: part of the seruice
belonging therto is repeated in Latin, and part in Irish. The minister
taketh the child in his hands, and first dippeth it backwards, and then
forwards, ouer heads and eares into the cold water in the midst of Winter,
whereby also may appeare their naturall hardnesse, (as before was
specified.) They had neither Bell, drum, nor trumpet, to call the
Parishioners together, but they expect till their Soueraigne come, and then
they that haue any deuotion follow him.

They make their bread all in cakes, and, for the tenth part, the bakers
bake for all the towne.

We had of them some 10. or 11. Tunnes of beere for the Victory, but it
proued like a present purgation to them that tooke it, so that we chose
rather to drinke water then it.

The 20 of December we loosed from hence, hauing well prouided ourselues of
fresh, water, and other things necessary, being accompanied with sir Edw.
Dennie, his Lady, and two yong sonnes.

This day in the morning my Lord going ashoare to despatch away speedily
some fresh water that remained for the Victory, the winde being very faire
for vs, brought vs newes that their were 60. Spanish prizes taken and
brought to England. For two or three dayes wee had a faire winde, but
afterwards it scanted so, that (as I said before) we were faine to keepe a
cold Christmas with The Bishop and his clearkes.

[Sidenote: Captaine Lister drowned.] After this we met with an English
ship, that brought vs ioyful newes of 91. Spanish prizes that were come to
England: and sorrowfull newes withall, that the last and best prize we
tooke, had suffered shipwracke at a place vpon the coast of Cornwal which
the Cornish men cals Als Efferne, that is, Helcliffe, and that Captaine
Lister and all the men in the ship were drowned, saue 5. or 6. the one
halfe English, the other Spanish that saued themselues with swimming; but
notwithstanding much of the goods were saued, and reserued for vs, by sir
Francis Godolphin and the worshipful gentlemen of the Countrey there. My
Lord was very sorry for Captaine Listers death, wishing that he had lost
his voyage to haue saued his life.

The 29. of December we met with another shippe, that tolde vs the same
newes, and that sir Martin Frobisher, and Captaine Reymond had taken the
Admirall and Vice-Admirall of the Fleet that we espied going to Terçera
hauen. But the Admirall was sunke with much leaking, neere to the Idy
Stone, a rocke that lieth ouer against Plimouth sound, and the men were
saued.

This ship also certified vs that Captaine Prestons ship had taken a prize
loden with siluer. My Lord entred presently into this ship, and went to
Falmouth, and we held on our course for Plimouth. At night we came neere to
the Ram-head (the next Cape Westwards from Plimouth sound) but we were
afraid to double it in the night, misdoubting the scantnesse of the winde.
So we stood off to Sea halfe the night, and towards morning had the winde
more large, and made too little spare thereof, that partly for this cause,
and partly through mistaking of the land, wee were driuen so much to
lee-wards, that we could not double that Cape: Therefore we returned backe
againe, and came into Falmouth hauen, where wee strucke on ground in 17.
foote water: but it was a low ebbe, and ready againe to flowe, and the
ground soft, so as no hurt was done. Here with gladnesse wee set foote
againe vpon the English ground (long desired) and refreshed ourselues with
keeping part of Christmas vpon our natiue soile.

       *       *       *       *       *

The valiant fight performed by 10. Merchants ships of London, against 12.
  Spanish gallies in the Straights of Gibraltar, the 24. of April 1590.

It is not long since sundry valiant ships appertaining to the Marchants of
London, were fraighted and rigged forth, some for Venice, some for
Constantinople, and some to sundry other places of trafique, among whom
these ensuing met within the Straights of Gibraltar, as they were taking
their course homewards, having before escaped all other danger. [Sidenote:
February 1590] The first whereof was the Salomon appertaining to M.
Alderman Barnam of London, and M. Bond, and M. Twyd of Harwich: which went
foorth the first day of February last. The second was the Margaret and Iohn
belonging to M. Wats of London: The thirde was the Minion: The fourth was
the Ascension. The fifth was the Centurion of Master Cordal: the sixt the
Violet: the seuenth the Samuel; the eight the Crescent: the ninth the
Elizabeth: and the 10. was the Richard belonging to M. Duffield. All these
ships being of notable and approued seruice comming neere to the mouth of
the Straights hard by the coast of Barbary, descried twelue tall Gallies
brauely furnished and strongly prouided with men and munition, ready to
seaze vpon these English ships: which being perceiued by the Captaines and
Masters thereof, wee made speedy preparation for the defence of our selues,
still waiting all the night long for the approching of the enemie. In the
morning early being the Tuesday in Easter weeke, and the 24 of April 1590
according to our vsual customes, we said Seruice and made our prayers vnto
Almightie God, beseeching him to saue vs from the hands of such tyrants as
the Spaniards, whom we iustly imagined to be, and whom we knew and had
found to be our most mortall enemies vpon the Sea. And hauing finished our
prayers, and set ourselues in a readinesse, we perceiued them to come
towards vs, and that they were indeede the Spanish Gallies that lay vnder
the conduct of Andre Doria, who is Vice-roy for the King of Spaine in the
Straights of Gibraltar, and a notable knowne enemie to all Englishmen. So
when they came somewhat neerer vnto vs, they waued vs a maine for the King
of Spaine, and wee waued them a maine for the Queene of England, at which
time it pleased Almightie God greatly to encourage vs all in such sort, as
that the neerer they came the lesse we feared their great multitudes and
huge number of men, which were planted in those Gallies to the number of
two or three hundred men in ech Gallie. And it was thus concluded among vs,
that the foure first and tallest ships should be placed hindmost, and the
weaker and smallest ships formost, and so it was performed, every man being
ready to take part of such successe as it should please God to send.

And the first encounter the Gallies came vpon vs very fiercely, yet God so
strengthened vs, that if they had bene ten times more, we had not feared
them at all. Whereupon the Salomon being a hot shippe, and hauing sundry
cast pieces in her, gaue the first shotte in such a sowre sort, as that it
shared away so many men as sate on the one side of a Gallie, and pierced
her through in such maner, as that she was readie to sinke, which made them
to assault vs the more fiercely. [Sidenote: A fight of sixe houres long.]
Whereupon the rest of our shippes, especially the foure chiefest, namely,
the Margaret and Iohn, the Minion, and the Ascension followed, and gaue a
hot charge vpon them, and they at vs, where began a hot and fierce battaile
with great valiancie the one against the other, and so continued for the
space of sixe houres. [Sidenote: A faint hearted Fleming.] About the
beginning of this our fight there came two Flemings to our Fleet, who
seeing the force of the Gallies to be so great, the one of them presently
yeelded, strooke his sailes, and was taken by the Gallies, whereas if they
would haue offered themselues to haue fought in our behalfe and their owne
defence, they needed not to haue bene taken so cowardly as they were to
their cost. The other Fleming being also ready to performe the like piece
of seruice began to vaile his sailes, and intended to haue yeelded
immediatly. But the Trumpetter in that shippe plucked foorth his faulchion
and stepped to the Pilote at the helme, and vowed that if he did not
speedily put off to the English Fleete, and so take part with them, he
would presently kill him: which the Pilote for feare of death did, and so
by that meanes they were defended from present death, and from the tyrannie
of those Spaniards, which doubtlesse they should haue found at their
handes.

Thus we continued in fight sixe houres and somewhat more, wherein God gaue
vs the vpper hand, and we escaped the hands of so many enemies, who were
constrained to flie into harbour and shroude themselues from vs, and with
speed to seeke for their owne safetie. This was the handie worke of God,
who defended vs all from danger in such sort, as that there was not one man
of vs slaine. And in all this fierce assault made vpon vs by the Spanish
power, wee sustained no hurt or damage at all more then this, that the
shrouds and backe-stay of the Salomon, who gaue the first and last shot,
and galled the enemie shrewdly all the time of the battell, were cleane
stricken off.

The battel being ceased, we were constrained for want of wind to stay and
waft vp and downe, and then went backe againe to Tition in Barbary, which
is sixe leagues off from Gibraltar, and when we came thither we found the
people wonderous fauourable to vs, who being but Moores and heathen people
shewed vs where to haue fresh water and al other necessaries for vs. And
there we had such good intertainment, as if we had bene in any place of
England.

The gouernour was one that fauoured vs greatly, whom wee in respect of his
great friendship presented with giftes and such commodities as we had in
our custodie, which he wonderfully wel accepted of: and here we stayed
foure dayes.

After the battell was ceased, which was on Easter Tuesday, we
stayed for want of winde before Gibraltar, vntill the next morning,
where we were becalmed, and therefore looked euery houre when
they would haue sent foorth some fresh supply against vs, but
they were farre vnable to doe it, for all their Gallies were so sore
battered, that they durst not come foorth of the harbour, by reason
of our hot resistance which they so lately before had receiued.
Yet were they greatly vrged thereunto by the Gouernour of the
said Towne of Gibraltar.

At our being at Tition in Barbary, there we heard report of the hurt that
wee had done to the Gallies, for at our comming from them wee could not
well discerne any thing at all by reason of the smoake which the powder had
made: there we heard that we had almost spoiled those twelue Gallies by
shooting them cleane through, that two of them were ready to sinke, and
that wee had slaine of their men such great abundance, as that they were
not able to furnish forth any more Gallies at all for that yeere.

Thus after we came from Tition, we assayed to depart the Straight three
seuerall times, but could not passe, yet, God be thanked, the fourth time
wee came safely away, and so sailed with a pleasant winde vntil wee came
vpon the coast of England, which was in the beginning of the moneth of Iuly
1590.

       *       *       *       *       *

The valiant fight performed in the Straight of Gibraltar, by the Centurion
  of London, against the fiue Spanish Gallies, in the moneth of April 1591.

In the moneth of Nouember 1590, there were sundry shippes appertaining to
seuerall Marchants of London, which were rigged and fraught foorth with
marchandize, for sundry places within the Straight of Gibraltar: who,
together hauing winde and weather, which ofttime fell out very vncertaine,
arriued safely in short space, at such places as they desired. Among whom
was the Centurion of London, a very tall shippe of burden, yet but weakely
manned, as appeareth by this discourse following.

This aforesaid shippe called The Centurion safely arriued at Marseils,
where after they had deliuered their goods, they stayed about the space of
fiue weekes, and better, and then tooke in lading, intending to returne to
England.

Now when the Centurion was ready to come away from Marseils, there were
sundry other shippes of smaller burden which entreated the Master thereof,
(whose name is Robert Bradshaw, dwelling at Lime-house) to stay a day or
two for them, vntill they were in a readinesse to depart with them, thereby
perswading them, that it would be farre better for them to stay and goe
together in respect of their assistance, then to depart of themselues
without company, and so happily for want of aide fall into the hands of
their enemies in the Spanish Gallies. Vpon which reasonable perswasion,
notwithstanding that this shippe was of such sufficiencie as they might
hazard her in the danger of the Sea, yet they stayed for those litle
shippes; according to their request, who together did put to Sea from
Marseils, and vowed in generall not to flie one from another, if they
should happen to meete with any Spanish Gallies.

These small shippes, accompanied with the Centurion, sayling along the
coast of Spaine, were ypon Easter day in the Straight of Gibraltar suddenly
becalmed, where immediatly they saw sundry Gallies make towards them, in
very valiant and couragious sort: the chiefe Leaders and souldiers in those
Gallies brauely apparelled in silke coates, with their siluer whistles
about their neckes, and great plumes of feathers in their hattes, who with
their Caliuers shot at the Centurion so fast as they might: so that by 10.
of the clocke and somewhat before, they had boorded the Centurion, who
before their comming had prepared for them, and intended to giue them so
soure a welcome as they might. And thereupon hauing prepared their close
fights, and all things in a readinesse, they called vpon God, on whom onely
they trusted: and hauing made their prayers, and cheered vp one another to
fight so long as life endured, they beganne to discharge their great
Ordinance vpon the Gallies, but the little shippes durst not come forward,
but lay aloofe, while fiue Gallies had boorded them, yea and with their
grapling irons made their Gallies fast to the said shippe called the
Centurion.

The Gallies were grapled to the Centurion in this maner, two lay on one
side and two on another, and the Admirall lay full in the stern, which
galled and battered the Centurion so sore, that her maine Maste was greatly
weakened, her sailes filled with many holes, and the Mizzen and sterne made
almost vnseruiceable.

During which time there was a sore and deadly fight on both sides, in which
the Trumpet of the Centurion sounded foorth the deadly points of warre, and
encouraged them to fight manfully against their aduersaries: on the
contrary part, there was no warlike Musicke in the Spanish Gallies, but
onely their whistles of siluer, which they sounded foorth to their owne
contentment: in which fight many a Spaniard was turned into the Sea, and
they in multitudes came crauling and hung vpon the side of the shippe,
intending to haue entred into the same, but such was the courage of the
Englishmen, that so fast as the Spaniards did come to enter, they gaue them
such entertainment, that some of them were glad to tumble aliue into the
Sea, being remedilesse for euer to get vp aliue. In the Centurion there
were in all, of men and boyes, fourtie and eight, who together fought most
valiantly, and so galled the enemie, that many a braue and lustie Spaniard
lost his life in that place.

The Centurion was fired seuerall times, with wilde fire and other
prouision, which the Spaniards, threw in for that purpose: yet, God be
thanked, by the great and diligent foresight of the Master it did no harme
at all.

In euery of the Gallies there were about 200. souldiers: who together with
the shot, spoiled, rent, and battered the Centurion very sore, shot through
her maine Maste, and slew 4. of the men in the said shippe, the one of them
being the Masters mate.

Ten other persons were hurt, by meanes of splinters which the Spaniards
shotte: yea, in the ende when their prouision was almost spent, they were
constrained to shoote at them hammers, and the chaines from their slaues,
and yet God bee thanked, they receiued no more domage: but by spoyling and
ouer-wearying of the Spaniards, the Englishmen constrained them to
vngrapple themselues, and get them going: and sure if there had bene any
other fresh shippe or succour to haue relieued and assisted the Centurion,
they had slaine, suncke, or taken all those Gallies and their Souldiers.

The Dolphin lay a loofe off and durst not come neere, while the other two
small shippes fledde away, so that one of the Gallies went from the
Centurion and set vpon the Dolphin, which shippe immediatly was set on fire
with their owne powder, whereby both men and shippe perished: but whether
it was with their good wills or no, that was not knowen vnto the Centurion,
but sure, if it had come forward, and bene an aide vnto the Centurion, it
is to bee supposed that it had not perished.

Fiue houres and a halfe this fight continued, in which time both were glad
to depart onely to breath themselues, but when the Spaniards were gone,
they neuer durst returne to fight, yet the next day sixe other Gallies came
and looked at them, but durst not at any hand meddle with them.

Thus God deliuered them from the handes of their enemies, and gaue them the
victorie: For which they heartily praised him, and not long after safely
arriued in London.

[Symbol: fist] There were present at this fight Master Iohn Hawes Marchaht,
  and sundry other of good accompt.

       *       *       *       *      *

A report of the trueth of the fight about the Iles of Açores, the last of
  August 1591, betwixt the Reuenge one of her Maiesties shippes, and an
  Armada of the king of Spaine; penned by the honourable Sir Walter Ralegh
  knight.

Because the rumours are diuersely spred, as well in England as in the Lowe
countries and elsewhere, of this late encounter betweene her Maiesties
ships and the Armada of Spaine; and that the Spaniards according to their
vsuall maner fill the world with their vaine-glorious vaunts, making great
apparance of victories, when on the contrary, themselues are most commonly
and shamefully beaten and dishonoured; thereby hoping to possesse the
ignorant multitude by anticipating and forerunning false reports: It is
agreeable with all good reason, for manifestation of the truth, to ouercome
falshood and vntrueth; that the beginning, continuance and successe of this
late honourable encounter of Sir Richard Greenuil, and other her Maiesties
Captaines, with the Armada of Spaine; should be truely set downe and
published without partialitie or false imaginations. And it is no marueile
that the Spaniard should seeke by false and slanderous pamphlets, aduisoes
and Letters, to couer their owne losse, and to derogate from others their
due honors, especially in this fight being performed far off: seeing they
were not ashamed in the yeere 1588. when they purposed the inuasion of this
land, to publish in sundry languages in print, great victories in wordes,
which they pleaded to haue obteined against this Realme; and spred the same
in a most false sort ouer all parts of France, Italy, and elsewhere. When
shortly after it was happily manifested in very deed to al Nations, how
their Nauy which they termed inuincible, consisting of 140. saile of
shippes, not onely of their owne kingdome, but strengthened with the
greatest Argosies, Portugal Caracks, Florentines, and huge hulks of other
Countreis, were by 30. of her Majesties owne ships of war, and a few of our
owne Marchants, by the wise, valiant, and aduantagious conduct of the L.
Charles Howard high Admirall of England, beaten and shuffled together; euen
from the Lizard in Cornwall first to Portland, where they shamefully left
Don Pedro de Valdes, with his mighty ship; from Portland to Cales, where
they lost Hugo de Moncado, with the Gallies of which he was Captaine, and
from Cales, driuen with squibs from their anchors, were chased out of the
sight of England, round about Scotland and Ireland. Where for the sympathie
of their barbarous religion, hoping to finde succour and assistance, a
great part of them were crusht against the rocks, and those other that
landed, being very many in number, were notwithstanding broken, slaine, and
taken, and so sent from village to village coupled in halters, to be
shipped into England. Where her Maiestie of her Princely and inuincible
disposition, disdaining to put them to death, and scorning either to
retaine or entertaine them: they were all sent backe againe to their
countreys, to witnes and recount the worthy achieuements of their
inuincible and dreadfull Nauy: Of which the number of Souldiers, the
fearefull burthen of their shippes, the commanders names of euery squadron,
with all other their magasines of prouisions, were put in print, as an Army
and Nauy vnresistable, and disdaining preuention. With all which so great
and terrible an ostentation, they did not in all their sailing round about
England, so much as sinke or take one shippe, Barke, Pinnesse, or Cockbote
of ours: or euer burnt so much as one sheepecote of this land. When as on
the contrarie, Sir Francis Drake, with onely 800. souldiers not long
before, landed in their Indies, and forced Sant-Iago, Santo Domingo,
Cartagena, and the forts of Florida.

And after that, Sir Iohn Norris marched from Peniche in Portugall, with a
handfull of souldiers, to the gates of Lisbone, being aboue 40 English
miles. Where the Earle of Essex himselfe and other valiant Gentlemen braued
the Citie of Lisbone, encamped at the very gates; from whence, after many
dayes abode, finding neither promised partie, nor provision to batter; they
made retrait by land, in despight of all their Garrisons, both of horse and
foote. In this sort I haue a little digressed from my first purpose, onely
by the necessarie comparison of theirs and our actions: the one couetous of
honour without vaunt of ostentation; the other so greedy to purchase the
opinion of their owne affaires, and by false rumors to resist the blasts of
their owne dishonours, as they, will not onely not blush to spread all
manner of vntruthes: but euen for the least aduantage, be it but for the
taking of one poore aduenturer of the English, will celebrate the victory
with bonefires in euery towne, alwayes spending more in faggots, then the
purchass was worth they obtained. When as we neuer thought it worth the
consumption of two billets, when we haue taken eight or ten of their Indian
shippes at one time, and twentie of the Brasill fleete. Such is the
difference betweene true valure, and ostentation: and betweene honorable
actions, and friuolous vaineglorious vaunts. But now to returne to my
purpose.

The L. Thomas Howard with sixe of her Maiesties shippes, sixe victuallers
of London, the Barke Ralegh, and two or three other Pinnases riding at
anker neere vnto Flores, one of the Westerly Ilands of the Azores, the last
of August in the afternoone, had intelligence by one Captaine Middleton of
the approch of the Spanish Armada. Which Middteton being in a very good
sailer had kept them company three dayes before, of good purpose, both to
discouer their forces the more, as also to giue aduise to my L. Thomas of
their approch. Hee had no sooner deliuered the newes but the fleete was in
sight: many of our shippes companies were on shore in the Ilande; some
providing ballast for their ships; others filling of water and refreshing
themselues from the land with such things as they could either for money,
or by force recouer. By reason whereof our ships being all pestered and
romaging euery thing out of order, very light for want of balast, and that
which was most to our disadvantage, the one halfe part of the men of euery
shippe sicke, and vtterly vnseruiceable: for in the Reuenge there were
ninety diseased: in the Bonauenture not so many in health as could handle
her maine saile. For had not twenty men beene taken out of a Barque of sir
George Careys, his being commaunded to be sunke, and those appointed to
her, she had hardly euer recouered England. The rest, for the most parte,
were in little better state. The names of her Maiesties shippes were these
as followeth, the Defiance, which was Admiral, the Reuenge Vice-admirall,
the Bonauenture commaunded by Captaine Crosse, the Lion by George Fenner,
the Foresight by M. Thomas Vauasour, and the Crane by Duffild. The
Foresight and the Crane being but smal ships; only the other were of the
middle size; the rest, besides the Barke Ralegh, commanded by Captaine
Thin, were victuallers, and of small force or none. The Spanish Fleet
hauing shrouded their approch by reason of the Island; were now so soone at
hand, as our shippes had scarce time to way their anchors, but some of them
were driuen to let slippe their Cables and set saile. Sir Richard Grinuile
was the last that wayed, to recouer the men that were vpon the Island,
which otherwise had bene lost. The L. Thomas with the rest very hardly
recouered the winde, which Sir Richard Grinuile not being able to doe, was
perswaded by the Master and others to cut his maine sayle, and cast about,
and to trust to the sayling of the ship; for the squadron of Siuil were on
his weather bow. But Sir Richard vtterly refused to turne from the enemie,
alleaging that hee would rather choose to die, then to dishonour himselfe,
his countrey, and her Maiesties shippe, perswading his companie that hee
would passe through the two squadrons, in despight of them, and enforce
those of Siuil to giue him way. Which hee performed vpon divers of the
formost, who, as the Mariners terme it, sprang their luffe, and fell vnder
the lee of the Reuenge. But the other course had beene the better, and
might right well haue bene answered in so great an impossibility of
preuailing. Notwithstanding out of the greatnesse of his minde, he could
not be perswaded. In the meane while as hee attended those which were
nearest him, the great San Philip being in the winde of him, and comming
towards him, becalmed his sailes in such sort, as the shippe could neither
make way, nor feele the helme: so huge and high carged [Footnote: From the
French, _carguer_ to furl.] was the Spanish ship, being of a thousand and
fiue hundreth tuns. Who after layd the Reuenge aboord. When he was thus
bereft of his sailes, the ships that were vnder his lee luffing vp, also
layd him aboord: of which the next was the Admiral of the Biscaines, a very
mighty and puissant shippe commanded by Brittandona. The sayd Philip
carried three tire of ordinance on a side, and eleuen pieces in euery tire.
She shot eight forth right out of her chase, besides those of her sterne
ports.

After the Reuenge was entangled with this Philip, foure other boorded her:
two on her larbood, and two on her starboord. The fight thus beginning at
three of the clock in the afternoone, continued very terrible all that
euening. But the great San Philip hauing receiued the lower tire of the
Reuenge, discharged with crosse bar-shot, shifted her selfe with all
diligence from her sides, vtterly misliking her first entertainement. Some
say that the shippe foundred, but we cannot report it for truth, vnlesse we
were assured. The Spanish ships were filled with companies of souldiers, in
some two hundred besides the mariners; in some fiue, in others eight
hundreth. In ours there were none at all besides the mariners; but the
seruants of the commanders and some few voluntary gentlemen onely. After
many interchanged volies of great ordinance and small shot, the Spaniards
deliberated to enter the Reuenge, and made diuers attempts, hoping to force
her by the multitudes of her armed souldiers and Musketters, but were still
repulsed againe and againe, and at all times beaten backe into their owne
ships, or into the seas. In the beginning of the fight, the George Noble of
London hauing receiued some shot thorow her by the Armadas, fell vnder the
lee of the Reuenge, and asked Sir Richard what he would command him, being
but one of the victuallers, and of small force: Sir Richard bid him saue
himselfe, and leaue him to his fortune. After the fight had thus, without
intermission, continued while the day lasted and some houres of the night,
many of our men slaine and hurte, and one of the great Gallions of the
Armada, and the Admirall of the Hulkes both sunke, and in many other of the
Spanish shippes great slaughter was made. Some write that Sir Richard was
very dangerously hurt almost in the beginning of the fight, and lay
speechlesse for a time ere hee recovered. But two of the Reuenges owne
company, brought home in a ship of Lime from the Ilandes, examined by some
of the Lordes, and others, affirmed that hee was neuer so wounded as that
hee forsooke the vpper decke, till an houre before midnight; and then being
shot into the bodie with a Musket as hee was a dressing, was againe shot
into the head, and withall his Chirurgion wounded to death. This agreeth
also with an examination taken by sir Francis Godolphin, of foure other
mariners of the same shippe being returned, which examination, the said sir
Francis sent vnto master William Killegrue, of her Maiesties priuy Chamber.

But to returne to the fight, the Spanish ships which attempted to bord the
Reuenge, as they were wounded and beaten off, so alwayes others came in
their places, she hauing neuer lesse then two mighty Gallions by her sides,
and aboard her: So that ere the morning, from three of the clocke the day
before, there had fifteene seuerall Armadas assayled her; and all so ill
approued their entertainment, as they were by the breake of day, far more
willing to harken to a composition, then hastily to make any more assaults
or entries. But as the day encreased, so our men decreased: and as the
light grew more and more, by so much more grewe our discomforts. For none
appeared in sight but enemies, sauing one small ship called the Pilgrim,
commaunded by Iacob Whiddon, who houered all night to see the successe: but
in the morning bearing with the Reuenge, was hunted like a hare amongst
many rauenous houndes, but escaped.

All the powder of the Reuenge to the last barrell was now spent, all her
pikes broken, fortie of her best men slaine, and the most part of the rest
hurt. In the beginning of the fight shee had but one hundreth free from
sicknes, and fourescore and ten sicke, laid in hold vpon the Ballast. A
small troup to man such a ship, and a weake garrison to resist so mighty an
army. By those hundred al was susteined, the voleis, boordings, and
entrings of fifteen ships of warre, besides those which beat her at large.
On the contrary, the Spanish were always supplied with souldiers brought
from euery squadron: all maner of Armes and powder at will. Vnto ours there
remained no comfort at all, no hope, no supply either of ships, men, or
weapons; the Mastes all beaten ouer board, all her tackle cut asunder, her
vpper worke altogether rased, and in effect euened shee was with the water,
but the very foundation or bottome of a ship, nothing being left ouer head
either for flight or defence. [Sidenote: The Spanish 53 saile.] Sir Richard
finding himselfe in this distress, and vnable any longer to make
resistance, hauing endured in this fifteene houres fight, the assault of
fifteene seuerall Armadas, all by turnes aboord him, and by estimation
eight hundred shotte of great Artillerie, besides many assaults and
entries; and that himselfe and the shippe must needes be possessed by the
enemy, who were now all cast in a ring round about him (The Reuenge not
able to moue one way or the other, but as she was moued with the waues and
billow of the sea) commanded the Master gunner, whom hee knew to be a most
resolute man, to split and sinke the shippe; that thereby nothing might
remaine of glory or victory to the Spaniards: seeing in so many houres
fight, and with so great a Nauie they were not able to take her, hauing had
fifteene houres time, aboue ten thousand men, and fiftie and three saile of
men of warre to performe it withall: and perswaded the company, or as many
as hee could induce, to yeelde themselues vnto God, and to the mercie of
none else; but as they had, like valiant resolute men, repulsed so many
enemies, they should not nowe shorten the honour of their Nation, by
prolonging their owne liues for a few houres, or a fewe dayes. The Master
gunner readily condescended and diuers others; but the Captaine and the
Master were of another opinion, and besought Sir Richard to haue care of
them: alleaging that the Spaniard would be as ready to entertaine a
composition, as they were willing to offer the same: and that there being
diuers sufficient and valiant men yet liuing, and whose wounds were not
mortal, they might do their Countrey and prince acceptable seruice
hereafter. And whereas Sir Richard had alleaged that the Spaniards should
neuer glory to haue taken one shippe of her Maiestie, seeing they had so
long and so notably defended themselues; they answered, that the shippe had
sixe foote water in holde, three shot vnder water, which were so weakely
stopped, as with the working of the sea, she must needs sinke, and was
besides so crusht and brused, as shee could neuer be remoued out of the
place.

And as the matter was thus in dispute, and Sir Richard refusing to hearken
to any of those reasons: the Master of the Reuenge (while the Captaine
wanne vnto him the greater party) was conuoyd aboord the Generall Don
Alfonso Baçan: Who (finding none ouer hastie to enter the Reuenge againe,
doubting least Sir Richard would haue blowne them vp and himselfe, and
perceiuing by report of the Master of the Reuenge his dangerous
disposition) yeelded that all their liues should be saued, the company sent
for England, and the better sort to pay such reasonable ransome as their
estate would beare, and in the meane season to be free from Gally or
imprisonment. To this he so much the rather condescended as wel, as I haue
said, for feare of further losse and mischiefe to themselues, as also for
the desire he had to recouer Sir Richard Greenuil; whom for his notable
valure he seemed greatly to honour and admire.

When this answere was returned, and that safetie of life was promised, the
common sort being now at the ende of their perill, the most drew backe from
Sir Richard and the Master gunner, being no hard matter to disswade men
from death to life. The Master gunner finding himselfe and Sir Richard thus
preuented and mastered by the greater number, would haue slaine himselfe
with a sword, had he not bene by force with-held and locked into his
Cabben. Then the Generall sent many boates aboord the Reuenge, and diuers
of our men fearing Sir Richards disposition, stole away aboord the Generall
and other shippes. Sir Richard thus ouermatched, was sent vnto by Alfonso
Baçan to remooue out of the Reuenge, the shippe being marueilous vnsauorie,
filled with blood and bodies of dead, and wounded men like a slaughter
house. Sir Richard answered that hee might doe with his body what he list,
for hee esteemed it not, and as he was carried out of the shippe hee
swounded, and reuiuing againe desired the company to pray for him. The
Generall vsed Sir Richard with all humanitie, and left nothing vnattempted
that tended to his recouery, highly commending his valour and worthinesse,
and greatly bewailing the danger wherein he was, being vnto them a rare
spectacle, and a resolution seldome approoued, to see one shippe turne
toward so many enemies, to endure the charge and boording of so many huge
Armadas, and to resist and repell the assaults and entries of so many
souldiers. All which and more is confirmed by a Spanish Captaine of the
same Armada, and a present actor in the fight, who being seuered from the
rest in a storme, was by the Lion of London a small ship taken, and is now
prisoner in London.

The generall commander of the Armada, was Don Alphonso Baçan, brother to
the Marques of Santa Cruz. The admiral of the Biscaine squadron, was
Britandona. Of the squadron of Siuil, the Marques of Arumburch. The Hulkes
and Flybotes were commanded by Luis Coutinho. There were slaine and drowned
in this fight, well neere one thousand of the enemies, and two speciall
commanders Don Luis de sant Iohn, and Don George de Prunaria de Mallaga, as
the Spanish captaine confesseth, besides diuers others of speciall account,
whereof as yet report is not made.

The Admirall of the Hulkes and the Ascension of Siuil were both sunke by
the side of the Reuenge; one other recouered the rode of Saint Michael, and
sunke also there; a fourth ranne her self with the shore to saue her men.
Sir Richard died as it is sayd, the second or third day aboord the
Generall, and was by them greatly bewailed. What became of his body,
whether it were buried in the sea or on the land we know not: the comfort
that remayneth to his friends is, that hee hath ended his life honourably
in respect of the reputation wonne to his nation and countrey, and of the
same to his posteritie, and that being dead, he hath not outliued his owne
honour.

For the rest of her Maiesties ships that entred not so farre into the fight
as the Reuenge, the reasons and causes were these. There were of them but
sixe in all, whereof two but small ships; the Reuenge ingaged past
recouery: The Iland of Flores was on the one side, 53 saile of the Spanish,
diuided into squadrons on the other, all as full filled with souldiers as
they could containe: Almost the one halfe of our men sicke and not able to
serue: the ships growne foule, vnroomaged, and scarcely able to beare any
saile for want of ballast, hauing bene sixe moneths at the sea before. If
all the rest had entred, all had bene lost: for the very hugenes of the
Spanish fleete, if no other violence had beene offered, would haue crusht
them betweene them into shiuers. Of which the dishonour and losse to the
Queene had bene farre greater then the spoyle or harme that the enemie
could any way haue receiued. Notwithstanding it is very true, that the Lord
Thomas would haue entred betweene the squadrons, but the rest would not
condescend; and the master of his owne ship offred to leape into the sea,
rather then to conduct that her Maiesties ship and the rest to bee a pray
to the enemie, where there was no hope nor possibilitie either of defence
or victory. Which also in my opinion had ill sorted or answered the
discretion and trust of a Generall, to commit himselfe and his charge to an
assured destruction, without hope or any likelyhood of preuailing: thereby
to diminish the strength of her Maiesties Nauy, and to enrich the pride and
glory of the enemie. The Foresight of the Queenes commaunded by M. Thomas
Vauisor performed a very great fight, and stayed two houres as neere the
Reuenge as the weather would permit him, not forsaking the fight, till he
was like to be encompassed by the squadrons, and with great difficultie
cleared himselfe. The rest gaue diuers voleis of shot, and entred as farre
as the place permitted, and their owne necessities, to keepe the weather
gage of the enemie, vntill they were parted by night. A fewe dayes after
the fight was ended, and the English prisoners dispersed into the Spanish
and Indie ships, there arose so great a storme from the West and Northwest;
that all the fleete was dispersed, as well the Indian fleete which were
then come vnto them, as the rest of the Armada that attended their arriual,
of which 14. saile together with the Reuenge, and in her 200. Spaniards,
were cast away vpon the Isle of S. Michael. So it pleased them to honor the
buriall of that renowmed ship the Reuenge, not suffering her to perish
alone, for the great honour she atchieued in her life time. On the rest of
the Ilandes there were cast away in this storme, 15 or 16 more of the ships
of warre: and of an hundred and odde saile of the Indie fleete, expected
this yeere in Spaine, what in this tempest, and what before in the bay of
Mexico, and about the Bermudas, there were 70 and odde consumed and lost,
with those taken by our shippes of London, besides one very rich Indian
ship, which set herselfe on fire, beeing boarded by the Pilgrim, and fiue
other taken by master Wats his ships of London, between the Hauana and Cape
S. Antonio. The fourth of this moneth of Nouember we receiued letters from
the Tercera, affirming that there are 3000 bodies of men remaining in that
Iland, saued out of the perished ships: and that by the Spaniards owne
confession, there are 10000 cast away in this storme, besides those that
are perished betweene the Ilands and the maine. Thus it hath pleased God to
fight for vs and to defend the iustice of our cause, against the ambicious
and bloody pretenses of the Spaniard, who seeking to deuoure all nations,
are themselues deuoured. A manifest testimony how iniust and displeasing,
their attempts are in the sight of God, who hath pleased to witnes by the
successe of their affaires, his mislike of their bloody and iniurious
designes, purposed and practised against all Christian princes, ouer whom
they seeke vnlawfull and vngodly rule and Empery.

One day or two before this wracke happened to the Spanish fleete, when as
some of our prisoners desired to be set on shore vpon the Ilandes, hoping
to be from thence transported into England, which libertie was formerly by
the Generall promised: One Morice Fitz Iohn, sonne of olde Iohn of Desmond,
a notable traytour, cousin german to the late Earle of Desmond, was sent to
the English from shippe to shippe, to perswade them to serue the King of
Spaine. The arguments hee vsed to induce them were these. The increase of
pay which he promised to be trebled: aduancement to the better sort: and
the exercise of the true Catholique Religion, and safetie of their soules
to all. For the first, euen the beggerly and vnnaturall behauiour of those
English and Irish rebels, that serued the King in that present action, was
sufficient to answere that first argument of rich pay. For so poore and
beggerly they were, as for want of apparell they stripped their poore
Countrey men prisoners out of their ragged garments, worne to nothing by
sixe months seruice, and spared not to despoyle them euen of their bloody
shirtes, from their wounded bodies, and the very shooes from their feete; A
notable testimonie of their rich entertainment and great wages. The second
reason was hope of aduancement if they serued well, and would continue
faithfull to the King. But what man can be so blockishly ignorant euer to
expect place or honour from a forraine King, hauing no other argument or
perswasion then his owne disloyaltie; to be vnnatural to his owne Countrey
that bred him; to his parents that begat him, and rebellious to his true
Prince, to whose obedience he is bound by oath, by nature, and by Religion?
No, they are onely assured to be employed in all desperate enterprises, to
bee helde in scorne and disdaine euer among those whom they serue. And that
euer traitour was either trusted or aduanced I could neuer yet reade,
neither can I at this time remember any example. And no man coulde haue
lesse becommed the place of an Orator for such a purpose, then this Morice
of Desmond. For the Erle his cosen being one of the greatest subiects in
that kingdom of Ireland, hauing almost whole Countreis in his possession;
so many goodly Manners, castles, and lordships; the Count Palatine of
Kerry, fiue hundred gentlemen of his owne name and family to follow him,
besides others (all which he possessed in peace for three or foure hundred
yeeres) was in lesse then three yeeres after his adhering to the Spaniards
and rebellion, beaten from all his holdes, not so many as ten gentlemen of
his name left liuing, himselfe taken and beheaded by a souldier of his owne
nation, and his land giuen by a Parliament to her Maiestie, and possessed
by the English: His other cosen Sir Iohn of Desmond taken by Master Iohn
Zouch, and his body hanged ouer the gates of his natiue Citie to be
deuoured by rauens: the thirde brother Sir Iames hanged, drawne, and
quartered in the same place. If hee had withall vaunted of his successe of
his owne house, no doubt the argument would haue mooued much, and wrought
great effect: which because, hee for that present forgot, I thought it good
to remember in his behalfe. For matter of Religion it would require a
particular volume, if I should set downe how irreligiously they couer their
greedy and ambicious pretenses, with that veile of pietie. But sure I am,
that there is no kingdome or commonwealth in all Europe, but if they be
reformed, they then inuade it for religion sake: if it bee, as they terme
Catholique, they pretend title; as if the Kings of Castile were the
naturall heires of all the world: and so betweene both, no kingdome is
vnsought. Where they dare not with their owne forces to inuade, they basely
entertaine the traitours and vagabonds of all Nations: seeking by those and
by their runnagate Iesuits to winne parts, and haue by that meane ruined
many Noble houses and others in this lande, and haue extinguished both
their liues and families. What good, honour, or fortune euer man yet by
them atchieued, is yet vnheard of, or vnwritten. And if our English Papists
doe but looke into Portugall, against which they haue no pretense of
Religion, how the Nobilitie are put to death, imprisoned, their rich men
made a praye, and all sorts of people captiued; they shall finde that the
obedience euen of the Turke is easie and a libertie, in respect of the
slauerie and tyrannie of Spaine. What haue they done in Sicill, in Naples,
Millaine, and in the Low countreis; who hath there bene spared for Religion
at all: And it commeth to my remembrance of a certaine Burger of Antwerpe,
whose house being entred by a company of Spanish souldiers, when they first
sacked the Citie, hee besought them to spare him and his goods, being a
good Catholique, and one of their owne partie and faction. The Spaniards
answered, that they knew him to be of a good conscience for himselfe, but
his money, plate, iewels, and goods were all hereticall, and therefore good
prize. So they abused and tormented the foolish Fleming, who hoped that an
Agnus Dei had bene a sufficient target against all force of that holy and
charitable nation. Neither haue they at any time as they protest inuaded
the kingdomes of the Indies and Peru, and elsewhere, but onely led
thereunto, rather to reduce the people to Christianitie, then for either
gold or Emperie. When as in one onely Island called Hispaniola, they haue
wasted thirtie hundred thousand of the naturall people, besides many
millions else in other places of the Indies: a poore and harmelesse people
created of God, and might haue bene wonne to his knowledge, as many of them
were, and almost as many as euer were perswaded thereunto. The storie
whereof is at large written by a Bishop of their owne nation called
Bartholomew de las Casas, and translated into English and many other
languages, intituled The Spanish cruelties. Who would therefore repose
trust in such a nation of ravenous strangers, and especially in those
Spaniards which more greedily thirst after English blood, then after the
liues of any other people of Europe, for the many ouerthrowes and
dishonours they haue receiued at our hands, whose weakeness wee haue
discouered to the world, and whose forces at home, abroad, in Europe, in
India, by sea and land, wee haue euen with handfulles of men and shippes,
ouerthrowen and dishonoured. Let not therefore any English man, of what
religion soeuer, haue other opinion of the Spaniards, but that those whom
hee seeketh to winne of our Nation, he esteemeth base and trayterous,
vnworthy persons, or vnconstant fooles: and that he vseth his pretense of
religion, for no other purpose but to bewitch vs from the obedience of our
naturall Prince, thereby hoping in time to bring vs to slauery and
subiection, and then none shall be vnto them so odious, and disdayned as
the traitours themselues, who haue solde their Countrey to a stranger, and
forsaken their faith and obedience contrarie to nature and religion; and
contrarie to that humane and generall honour, not onely of Christians, but
of heathen and irreligious nations, who haue alwayes sustayned what labour
soeuer, and embraced euen death it selfe, for their countrey, Prince, or
common wealth. To conclude, it hath euer to this day pleased God to prosper
and defend her Maiestie, to breake the purposes of malicious enemies, of
forsworne traytors, and of iniust practises and inuasions. She hath euer
beene honoured of the worthiest kings, serued by faithfull subiects, and
shall by the fauour of God, resist, repell, and confound all whatsoeuer
attempts against her sacred person or kingdome. In the meane time let the
Spaniard and traytour vaunt of their successe, and wee her true and
obedient vassals guided by the shining light of her virtues, shall alwayes
loue her, serue her, and obey her to the end of our liues. [Footnote: The
most complete collection of contemporary documents relating to this
interesting episode, is to be found in "_The Last Fight of the Revenge_",
privately printed, Edinburgh, 1886 (GOLDSMID'S BIBLIOTHECA CURIOSA.)]

       *       *       *       *       *

A particular note of the Indian fleet, expected to haue come into Spaine
  this present yeere of 1591. with the number of shippes that are perished
  of the same: according to the examination of certaine Spaniards lately
  taken and brought into England by the ships of London.

The fleete of Noua Hispania, at their first gathering together and setting
foorth, were two and fiftie sailes. The Admirall was of sixe hundred
tunnes, and the Vice Admirall of the same burthen. Foure or fiue of the
shippes were of nine hundred and 1000 tunnes a piece, some fiue hundred,
and some foure hundred and the least of two hundred tuns. Of this fleet 19
were cast away, and in them 2600 men by estimation, which was done along
the coast of Noua Hispania, so that of the same fleet there came to the
Hauana but 33 sailes.

The fleete of Terra Firma were, at their first departure from Spaine,
fiftie sailes, which were bound for Nombre de Dios, where they did
discharge their lading, and thence returned to Cartagena, for their healths
sake, vntill the time the treasure was readie they should take in, at the
said Nombre de Dios. But before this fleete departed, some were gone by one
or two at a time, so that onely 23 sayles of this fieete arriued in the
Hauana.

At the Hauana there met

33 sailes of Noua Hispania.
23 sailes of Terra Firma.
12 sailes of San Domingo.
9 sailes of the Hunduras.

The whole 77 shippes, ioyned and set sailes all together at the Hauana, the
17 of Iuly, according to our account, and kept together vntill they came
into the height of thirtie fiue degrees, which was about the tenth of
August, where they found the winde at Southwest chaunged suddenly to the
North, so that the sea comming out of the Southwest, and the wind very
violent at North, they were put all into great extremitie, and then first
lost the Generall of their fleete, with 500 men in her; and within three or
foure dayes after, an other storme rising, there were fiue or sixe other of
the biggest shippes cast away with all their men, together with their
Vice-Admirall.

And in the height of 38. degrees, about the end of August, grew another
great storme, in which all the fleet sauing 48. sailes were cast away:
which 48. sailes kept together, vntill they came in sight of the Ilands of
Coruo and Flores, about the fift or sixt of September, at which time a
great storme separated them: of which number fifteene or sixteene were
after seene by these Spanyards to ride at anchor vnder the Tercera; and
twelue or foureteene more to beare with the Island of S. Michael; what
became of them after that these Spaniards were taken cannot yet be
certified; their opinion as, that very few of thee fleet are escaped, but
are either drowned or taken. And it is other waies of late certified, that
of this whole fleete that should haue come into Spaine this yeere, being
one hundred twentie and three sayle, there are arriued as yet but fiue and
twentie. This note was taken out of the examination of certaine Spaniardes,
that were brought into England by sixe of the ships of London, which tooke
seuen of the aboue named Indian Fleete, neere the Islands of the Açores.

      *      *      *      *      *

A report of Master Robert Flicke directed to Master Thomas Bromley, Master
  Richard Staper, and Master Cordall concerning the successe of a part of
  the London supplies sent to my Lord Thomas Howard to the Isles of the
  Azores, 1591.

Worshipfull, my heartie commendations vnto you premised: By my last of the
twelfth of August from this place I aduertised you particularly of the
accidents of our Fleete vntill then. It remayneth now to relate our
endeuours in accomplishing the order receiued for the ioyning with my Lorde
Thomas Howard, together with the successe wee haue had. Our departure from
hence was the seuenteenth of August, the winde not seruing before. The next
day following I caused a Flagge of Counsell to be put foorth, whereupon the
Captaines and Masters of euery shippe came aboord, and I acquainted them
with my Commission, firmed by the Right honourable the Lordes of her
Maiesties Counsell, and with all the aduertisements of Sir Edward Denny, of
my Lordes determination to remaine threescore leagues to the West of Fayal,
spreading North and South betwixt thirtie seuen and a halfe or thirty eight
and a halfe degrees. And not finding him in this heighth to repaire to the
Isles of Flores and Coruo, where a Pinnesse of purpose should stay our
comming vntill the last of August, with intent after that day to repaire to
the coast of Spaine, about the heigth of The Rocke, some twentte or thirtie
leagues off the shoare. The which being aduisedly considered of hauing
regard vnto the shortnesse of time, by reason of our long abode in this
place, and the vncertainety of the weather to fauour vs, it was generally
holden for the best and securest way to meete with my Lorde, to beare with
the heigth of The Rocke, without making any stay vpon the coast, and so
directly for the Islands which was accordingly fully agreed and performed.
The 28 day wee had sight of the Burlings, and the 29 being thwart of
Peniche, the winde seruing vs, without any stay we directed our course West
for the Islands. The 30 day we met with Captaine Royden in the Red-Rose,
sometime called the Golden Dragon, separated from my Lorde of Cumberland in
a storme: who certified vs of 50 sayles of the Spanish kings Armadas to be
gone for the Ilands, but could not informe vs any newes of my Lord Thomas
Howard, otherwise then vpon presumption to remaine about the Islandes, and
so wee continued our course the winde standing with vs.

The 4 of September we recouered Tercera, and ranged along all the Islands,
both on the South and North sides the space of foure dayes: during which
time it was not our hap to meete with any shipping, whereby either to
vnderstand of my Lord, or of the Indian Fleete: hereupon we directed our
course to the West from Fayal, according to the instructions of Sir Edward
Denny. The 11 day in the plying to the Westwards we descried a sayle out of
our maine toppe, and in the afternoone betweene two and three of the clocke
hauing raysed her hull, the weather became calme, so that the ship could
not fetch her. I sent off my Skiffe throughly manned, furnished with shot
and swords, The Cherubin, and the Margaret and Iohn doing the like. Vpon
this the sayle stood off againe, and the night approching, our boates lost
her and so returned. In this our pursute after the sayle the Centurion
being left a sterne, the next morning wee missed her, and spent that day in
plying vp and down seeking her. And for as much as euery of the ships had
receiued order, that, if by extremity of weather or any other mischance
they should be seuered from our Fleete, they should meete and ioyne at
Flores, we, according to the instructions of Sir Edward Denny, proceeded to
the finding of my Lord Thomas Howard, being in the heigth appointed and not
able to holde the same by reason of extreme tempestes which forced vs to
the Isles of Flores and Coruo, which we made the 14 day in the morning, and
there also ioyned againe with the Centurion, whose company before we had
lost: who declared vnto vs that the 12 day, being the same day they lost
vs, they met with fiue and forty sailes of the Indian Fleete. The same
night, vpon these newes we came to an anker betweene Flores and Coruo, and
the morow following at the breake of day, a flagge of Counsell being put
out, the Captaines and Masters came abord me: where, for the desire to
vnderstand some tidings of my Lord, as also the supplying of our want of
water, it was thought good to send our boats furnished on shore, vnder the
conduct of Captaine Brothus, and then it was also ordered after our
departure thence to range along the Southsides of the Islands to the end we
might either vnderstand of my Lord, or else light on the Indian fleete; and
in the missing of our purpose to direct our course for Cape Sant Vincente.

The boates, according to the foresayd determination, being sent on shoare,
it chaunced that the Costely ryding vttermost in the roade, did weigh to
bring her selfe more neere among vs for the succour of the boates sent off,
and in opening the land discouered two sayles, which we in the roade could
not perceiue: whereupon shee gaue vs a warning piece, which caused vs to
waue off our boates backe, and before they could recouer our shippes, the
discryed ships appeared vnto vs, towardes the which we made with all haste,
and in a very happie hour, as it pleased God. [Sidenote: A violent storm.]
In that wee had not so soone cleared the lande, and spoken with one of
them, which was a Barke of Bristoll, who had also sought my Lorde in the
heigths appointed and could not finde him, but a violent storme arose, in
such manner, as if we had remained in the roade, we had beene in daunger of
perishing: and the same extremely continued during the space of threescore
houres. In which storme I was separated from our Fleete, except the
Cherubin and the Costely, which kept company with mee. And so sayling among
the Ilands, I viewed the roade of Fayal, and finding no Roaders there, went
directly for the Isle Tercera.

The nineteenth day in the morning comming vnto the same with intent to edge
into the Road, a tempest arose and scanted the winde, that we could not
sease it: from the which being driuen we fell among certaine of the Indian
Fleete, which the sayde storme dispersed, and put them from the road:
whereupon my selfe with the other two ships in companie gaue seuerall
chases, and thereby lost the company each of other.

[Sidenote: A Portugall Prize taken.] In following our chase aboue noone we
made her to strike and yeelde, being a Portugall, laden with hides,
salsa-perilla and Anile. At this very instant we espied another, and taking
our Prise with vs followed her, and somewhat before night obtayned her,
named the Conception, Francisco Spinola being Captaine, which was laden
with hides, Cochonillio, and certaine raw silke. And for that the seas were
so growen, as neither with boate nor shippe they were to bee boorded, we
kept them till fit opportunitie. [Sidenote: A rich West-Indian Prize
taken.] The same night a litle before day there happened another into our
company, supposing vs by our two prizes to be of their Fleete, which we
vntill the morning dissembled.

The 20 day in the morning, the sayle being shot somewhat a head of vs,
hauing a speciall care for the safe keeping of the two former, we purposed
to cause our Prizes to put out more sayle thereby to keep them neere in
giuing chase to the other: vnto the which the Master would not hearken nor
be perswaded, but that they would follow vs: by the which his wilfulnesse
by such time as we had caused the other to yeelde, and sent men aboord, the
Conception, Francisco Spinola Captaine being brought a sterne, and hauing
gotten the winde of vs, stood off with all her sayles bearing, so as we
were forced to make a new chase of her: and had not the winde enlarged vpon
vs we had lost her. In the pursute before we recouered her and brought our
selues againe in company of our other Prizes, the whole day was spent, and
by this meanes we lost the oportunitie of that day, the weather fitly
seruing to boord the Portugall Prize, which was in great distresse, and
made request to take them being readie to sinke, and, as we well perceiued,
they ceased not to pumpe day and night: the which ship to all our
iudgements the same night perished in the sea.

The one and twentie day the Conception, whereof Francisco Spinola was
Captaine, being also in a leake, and the same still increasing
notwithstanding the continuall pumping, in such sort as not to be kept
along aboue water, I tooke and discharged out of her two and forty chestes
of Cochonillio and silkes, and so left her with 11 foote water in holde and
her furniture and 4700 hides, vnto the seas.

The other prize which we haue brought into the harborough is named Nostra
Sennora de los remedios, whereof Francisco Aluares is Captaine, laden with
16 chests of Cochonillio, certaine fardels of raw silke, and about 4000
hides. Vpon the discharge of the goods your worships shall be particularly
aduertised thereof.

In the boording of the prizes the disorder of the company was such, as that
they letted not presently besides the rifling of the Spaniards to breake
open the chests and to purloyne such money as was in them: notwithstanding
that it was ordered at convenient leasure to haue gone on boord my selfe,
and therein the presence of three or foure witnesses to haue taken a iust
account thereof, and the same to haue put in safe keeping, according to the
effects of articles receiued in this behalfe.

And whereas there were also certaine summes of money taken from the company
which they had thus purloyned and embeseled, and the same with some other
parcels brought aboord my ship, amounting vnto 2129 pezoes and a halfe, the
company as pillage due vnto them demanded to haue the same shared, which I
refused, and openly at the maine maste read the articles firmed by my Lord
Treasurer and my Lord Admirall, whereby we ought to be directed, and that
it was not in mee any way to dispose thereof, vntill the same were finally
determined at home. Hereupon they mutinied and at last grew into such
furie, as that they would haue it or els breake downe the cabbine, which
they were also readie to put into practise, whereby I was forced to yeeld,
least the Spaniards which we had abord being many perceiuing the same,
might haue had fit opportunitie to rise against vs, which, after their
brawles were appeased, they sought to haue put into execution.

By the last aduise from Castile the Generall of the kings Armada which is
lately come to sea hath receiued commaundement to ioyne his Fleete with
those of the Indies, and for to stay altogether at Tercera vntill the 15 of
October: for that 6 pataches with 7 or 8 millions of the kings treasure
will come by that time, or els they stay their comming from Hauana vntill
Ianuary next, or the kings further pleasure therein to be knowen. These
pataches are said to be of 300 tuns the piece, and to cary 30 pieces of
brasse, and also of saile reported to haue the aduantage of any shipping.

There perished of the Indies Fleete sunke in the sea before there comming
to Flores 11 sailes, whereof the General was one, and not one man saued.
And it is by the Spaniards themselues presupposed that the stormes which we
had at Flores and at Tercera haue deuoured many more of them, whereof in
part we were eye witnesses. And so what by the seas and our men of warre I
presume that of 75 sailes that came from Hauana, halfe of them will neuer
arriue in Spaine.

The 11 day of October at night we came to anker in the sound of Plimouth,
and the next morning with our Prize came into Cattewater: for which God be
thanked: for that a vehement storme arose, and with such fury increased, as
that the Prize was forced to cut ouer her maine maste: otherwise with the
violence of the storme, her ground tackle being bad, she had driuen on
shore: which was the most cause that moued me to put in here; intending now
here to discharge the goods without further aduenture, and haue certified
thus much vnto my Lord Admirall, and therewith also desired to vnderstande
the direction of the Lords of the Counsell together with yours, insomuch as
my Lord Thomas Howard is not returned. How the rest of our consorts which
were seperated from vs by weather haue sped, or what Prizes they haue
taken, whereof there is much hope by reason of the scattering of the West
Indian Fleete, as yet we are able to say nothing. And thus expecting your
answere, and for all other matters referring me vnto the bearer Captaine
Furtho, I end. Plymouth the 24 of October 1591.

Your worships louing friend

Robert Flicke.

        *       *       *       *       *

A large testimony of Iohn Huighen van Linschoten Hollander, concerning the
  worthy exploits atchieued by the right honourable the Earle of
  Cumberland, By Sir Martine Frobisher, Sir Richard Greenuile, and diuers
  other English Captaines, about the Isles of the Açores, and vpon the
  coasts of Spaine and Portugall, in the yeeres 1589, 1590, 1591, &c.
  recorded in his excellent discourse of voiages to the East and West
  Indies, cap. 96. 97. and 99.

The 22 of Iuly 1589 about Euening, being by the Ilands of Flores and Coruo,
we perceiued 3 ships that made towards vs, which came from vnder the land,
which put vs in great feare: for they came close by our Admirall, and shot
diuers times at him, and at another ship of our companie, whereby we
perceiued them to be Englishmen, for they bare an English flagge vpon their
maine tops, but none of them shewed to be aboue 60 tunnes in greatnes.
About Euening they followed after vs, and all night bore lanternes with
candles burning in them at their sternes, although the Moone shined. The
same night passing hard by the Island of Fayal, the next day being betweene
the Island of S. George that lay on our right hand, and the small Island
called Graciosa on our left hand, we espied the 3 English ships still
following vs that tooke counsell together, whereof one sailed backwards,
thinking that some other ship had come after vs without company, and for a
time was out of sight, but it was not long before it came again to the
other two, wherwith they tooke counsel and came all, 3 together against our
ship, because we lay in the lee of al our ships, and had the Island of S.
George on the one side in stead of a sconce, thinking to deale so with vs,
that in the end we should be constrained to run vpon the shore, whereof we
wanted not much, and in that manner with their flagges openly displayed,
came lustily towardes vs, sounding their Trumpets, and sayled at the least
three times about vs, beating vs with Musket and Caliuer, and some great
pieces, and did vs no hurt in the body of our shippe, but spoyled all our
sayles and ropes, and to conclude, wee were so plagued by them, that no man
durst put foorth his head, and when wee shot off a peece, wee had at the
least an houres worke to lade it againe, whereby we had so great a noise
and crie in the shippe, as if we had all bene cast away, whereat the
English men themselues beganne to mocke vs, and with a thousand iesting
words called vnto vs. In the meane time the other shippes hoised all their
sayles, and did the best they could to saile to the Island of Tercera, not
looking once behinde them to helpe vs, doubting they should come too late
thither, not caring for vs, but thinking themselues to haue done
sufficiently so they saued their owne stakes, whereby it may easily be
seene what company they keepe one with the other, and what order is among
them. In the ende the English men perceiuing small aduantage against vs,
(little knowing in what case and feare we were, as also because wee were
not farre from Tercera) left vs, which made vs not a litle to reioyce, as
thinking our selues to bee risen from death to life, although wee were not
well assured, neyther yet voyde of feare till we lay in the road before
Tercera, and vnder the safetie of the Portingales fort, and that we might
get thither in good time wee made all the sailes we could: on the other
side we were in great doubt, because we knew not what they did in the
Island, nor whether they were our friends or enemies, and we doubted so
much the more, because we found no men of warre nor any Caruels of aduise
from Portingal, as wee made our accounts to doe, that might conuoy vs from
thence, or giue vs aduise, as in that countrey ordinarily they vse to do:
and because the English men had bene so victorious in those parts, it made
vs suspect that it went not well with Spaine: they of the Island of Tercera
were in no lesse fear then we, for seeing our fleete, they thought vs to
bee Englishmen, and that wee came to ouerrun the Island, because the 3.
Englishmen had bound vp their flags, and came in company with vs: for the
which cause the Iland sent out two Caruels that lay there with aduise from
the king, for the Indians ships that should come thither. Those Caruels
came to view vs, and perceiuing what we were, made after vs, whereupon the
English ships left vs, and made towardes them, because the Caruels thought
them to be friends, and shunned them not, as supposing them to bee of our
company, but we shot foure or fiue times and made signes vnto them that
they should make towards the Island, which they presently did. The
Englishmen perceiuing that, did put forwards into the sea, and so the
Caruels borded vs telling vs that the men of the Island were all in armes,
as hauing receiued aduise from Portugall, that Sir Frances Drake was in
readinesse, and would come vnto those Islands. They likewise brought vs
newes of the ouerthrow of the Spanish fleet before England, and that the
English men had bene before the gates of Lisbon; wereupon the king gaue vs
commandement that we should put into the Island of Tercera, and there lie
vnder the safety of the Castle vntill we receiued further aduise what we
should do, or whether we should saile: for that they thought it too
dangerous for vs to go to Lisbon. Those newes put our fleet in great feare,
and made vs looke vpon eche other not knowing what to say, as being
dangerous for them to put into the road, because it lieth open to the sea:
so that the Indian ships, although they had expresse commandement from the
king, yet they durst not anker there, but onely vsed to come thither, and
to lie to and fro, sending their boates on land to fetch such necessaries
as they wanted, without ankering: but being by necessitie compelled
thereunto, as also by the kings commandement, and for that we vnderstood
the Erle of Cumberland not to bee farre from those Islands with certaine
ships of warre, we made necessitie a vertue, and entring the road, ankered
close vnder the Castle, staying for aduise and order from the king, to
performe our voyage, it being then the 24. of Iuly, and S. Iames day.

The day before the Erle of Cumberland with 6. or 7. ships of war, sailed by
the Island of Tercera, and to their great good fortune passed out of sight,
so that they dispatched themselues in all haste, and for the more
securitie, tooke with them 4. hundred Spaniards of those that lay in
Garrison in the Island, and with them they sayled towards Lisbon, hauing a
good wind: so that within 11 daies after they arriued in the riuer of
Lisbon with great gladnes and triumph: for if they had stayed but one day
longer before they had entred the riuer, they had all beene taken by
Captaine Drake, who with 40 ships came before Cascais at the same time that
the Indian ships cast anker in the riuer of Lisbon, being garded thither by
diuers Gallies.

While I remained in Tercera, the Erle of Cumberland came to S. Marie, to
take in fresh water, and some other victuals: but the inhabitants would not
suffer him to haue it, but wounded both himselfe and diuers of his men,
whereby they were forced to depart without hauing any thing there.

The Erle of Cumberland while I lay in Tercera, came vnto the Isle of
Graciosa, where himselfe in person, with seuen or eight in his company went
on land, asking certaine beasts, hens, and other victuals, with wine and
fresh water, which they willingly gaue him, and therewith he departed from
thence, without doing them any hurt: for the which the inhabitants thanked
him, and commended him for his courtesie, and keeping of his promise.

The same time that the Erle of Cumberland was in the Island of Graciosa, he
came likewise to Fayall, where at the first time that he came, they beganne
to resist him, but by reason of some controuersie among them, they let him
land, where he razed the Castle to the ground, and sunke all their
Ordinance in the sea, taking with him certaine Carauels and ships that lay
in the road, with prouision of all things that he wanted: and therewith
departed againe to sea. Whereupon the king caused the principall actors
therein to be punished, and sent a company of souldiers thither againe,
which went out of Tercera, with all kinde of warlike munition, and great
shot, making the fortresse vp againe, the better to defend the Island,
trusting no more in the Portugales.

The 99 Chapter.

The ninth of October 1589. there arriued in Tercera fourteene ships that
came from the Spanish Indies, laden with Cochinile, Hides, Golde, Siluer,
Pearles, and other rich wares. They were fiftie in companie, when they
departed out of the Hauen of Hauana, whereof, in their comming out of the
Channell, eleuen sunke in the same Channell by foule weather, the rest by a
storme were scattered and separated one from the other. The next day there
came another ship of the same companie, that sailed close vnder the Island,
so to get into the Roade: where she met with an English ship that had not
aboue three cast peeces, and the Spaniards 12. They fought a long time
together, which we being in the Island might stand and behold: wherevpon
the Gouernour of Tercera sent two boates of Musketiers to helpe the shippe:
but before they could come at her, the English ship had shot her vnder
water, and we saw her sinke into the Sea with all her sayles vp, and not
any thing seene of her aboue the water. The Englishmen with their boate
saued the Captaine and about thirtie others with him, but not one
penie-worth of the goods, and yet in the shippe there was at the least to
the value of two hundred thousand Duckats in Golde, Siluer and Pearles, the
rest of the men were drowned which might be about fiftie persons, among the
which were some Fryers and women, which the Englishmen would not saue.
Those that they had saued they set on land: and then they sayled away. The
seuen and twentieth of the same moneth, the sayd foureteene ships hauing
refreshed themselues in the Island departed from Tercera toward Siuill, and
comming vpon the coast of Spaine they were taken by the English ships that
lay there to watch for them, two onely excepted which escaped away, and the
rest were wholly caried into England.

About the same time the Erle of Cumberland with one of the Queenes ships,
and fiue or sixe more, kept about those Islands and came oftentimes so
close vnder the Island, and to the Road of Angra, that the people on land
might easily tell all his men that he had aboord, and knewe such as walked
on the Hatches: they of the Island not once shooting at them, although they
might easily haue done it, for they were within Musket shot both of the
towne and fort. In these places he continued for the space of two moneths,
and sayled round about the Islands, and landed in Graciosa and Fayal, as in
the description of those Islands I haue alreadie declared. Here he tooke
diuers ships and Carauels, which he sent into England: so that those of the
Island durst not once put foorth their heads. At the same time about three
or foure dayes after the Erle of Cumberland had beene in the Island of
Fayal, and was departed from thence, there arriued in the said Island of
Fayal sixe Indian shippes, whose General was one Iuan Doriues: and there
they discharged in the Iland 4 millions of golde and siluer. And hauing
with all speede refreshed their ships, fearing the comming of the
Englishmen they set sayle, and arriued safely in S. Lucar, not meeting with
the enemie, to the great good lucke of the Spaniards and hard fortune of
the Englishmen: for that within lesse then two dayes after the golde and
siluer was laden againe into the Spanish ships, the Erle of Cumberland
sayled againe by that Island: so that it appeared that God would not let
them haue it, for if they had once had sight thereof, without doubt it had
bene theirs, as the Spaniards themselues confessed.

In the moneth of Nouember there arriued in Tercera two great shippes, which
were the Admirall and Viceadmirall of the Fleete laden with siluer, who
with stormie weather were separated from the Fleete, and had beene in great
torment and distresse, and readie to sinke: for they were forced to vse all
their Pumps: so that they wished a thousand times to haue met with the
Englishmen to whom they would willingly haue giuen their siluer and all
that euer they brought with them onely to saue their liues. And although
the Erle of Cumberland lay still about those Islands, yet they met not with
him, so that after much paine and labour they got into the Road before
Angra, where with all speede they vnladed and discharged aboue fiue
millions of siluer, all in pieces of 8 or 10 pound great: so that the whole
Kay lay couered with plates and chests of siluer, full of Ryales of eight,
most wonderfull to behold, (each million being ten hundred thousand
duckats,) besides pearles, gold and other stones, which were not registred.
The Admirall and chiefe commander of those ships and Fleete called Aluaro
Flores de Quiniones was sicke of the Neapolitan disease, and was brought to
land, whereof not long after he died in Siuillia. He brought with him the
Kings broad seale and full authoritie to be Generall and chiefe commander
vpon the Seas, and of all Fleetes or ships, and of all places and Islands,
or lands wheresoeuer he came: wherevpon the Gouernour of Tercera did him
great honour, and betweene them it was concluded, perceiuing the weaknesse
of their ships, and the danger of the Englishmen, that they would send the
shippes, emptie with souldiers to conuey them, either to Siuill or Lisbon,
where they could first arriue, with aduise vnto his Maiestie of all that
had passed, and that he would giue order to fetch the siluer with good and
safe conuoy. Wherevpon the said Aluero Flores stayed there, vnder colour of
keeping the siluer, but specially because of his disease, and for that they
were affraide of the Englishmen. This Aluaro Flores had alone for his owne
part aboue 50000 Duckats in pearles which he shewed vnto vs, and sought to
sell them or barter them with vs for spices or bils of exchange. The said
two ships set saile with 3 or 4 hundred men, as well souldiers as others
that came with them out of India, and being at sea had a storme, wherewith
the Admirall burst and sunke in the sea, and not one man saued. The
Vice-Admirall cut downe her mast, and ranne the ship on ground hard by
Setuuel, where it burst in pieces, some of the men sauing them selues by
swimming, that brought the newes, but the rest were drowned.

In the same moneth there came two great ships out of the Spanish Indies,
and being within halfe a mile of the Road of Tercera, they met with an
English ship, which, after they had fought long together, tooke them both.
About 7 or 8 moneths before, there had beene an English shippe in Tercera,
that vnder the name of a Frenchman came to traffike in the Island, there to
lade woad, and being discouered was both ship and goods confiscated to the
kings vse, and all the men kept prisoners: yet went they vp and downe the
streetes to get their liuings, by labouring like slaues, being in deede as
safe in that Island, as if they had beene in prison. But in the ende vpon a
Sunday, all the Saylers went downe behinde the hils called Bresil: where
they found a Fisher-boat, whereinto they got and rowed into the sea to the
Erle of Cumberlands shippes, which to their great fortune chanced at that
time to come by the Island, and ankered with his ships about halfe a mile
from the Road of Angra, hard by two small Islands, which lie about a bases
shot from the Island and are full of Goats, Deere and Sheepe, belonging to
the inhabitants of the Island of Tercera. Those Saylers knew it well, and
thereupon they rowed vnto them with their boates, and lying at anker that
day, they fetched as many Goates and sheepe as they had neede of: which
those of the towne and of the Island well saw and beheld, yet durst not
once goe foorth: so there remained no more on land but the Master and the
Marchant of the said English ship. This Master had a brother in lawe
dwelling in England, who hauing newes of his brothers imprisonment in
Tercera, got licence of the Queene of England to set forth a ship,
therewith to see if he could recouer his losses of the Spaniards by taking
some of them, and so to redeeme his brother that lay prisoner in Tercera,
and he it was that tooke the two Spanish ships before the Towne, the Master
of the ship aforesaid standing on the shore by me, and looking vpon them,
for he was my great acquaintance. The ships being taken that were worth 300
thousand duckats, he sent al the men on land sauing onely two of the
principall Gentlemen, which he kept aboord thereby to ransome his brother:
and sent the Pilot of one of the Indian ships that were taken, with a
letter to the Gouernor of Tercera; wherein he wrote that he should deliuer
him his brother, and he would send the 2 Gentlemen on land: if not, he
would saile with them into England, as indeed he did, because the Gouernour
would not doe it, saying that the Gentlemen might make that suite to the
king of Spaine himselfe. This Spanish Pilot we bid to supper with vs, and
the Englishmen likewise, where he shewed vs all the manner of their fight,
much commending the order and maner of the Englishmens fighting, as also
their courteous vsing of him: but in the end the English Pilot likewise
stole away in a French ship, without paying any ransome as yet.

In the moneth of Ianuarie 1590 there arriued one ship alone in Tercera,
that came from the Spanish Indies, and brought newes that there was a
Fleete of a hundred shippes which put out from the Firme land of the
Spanish Indies, and by a storme were driuen vpon the coast called Florida,
where they were all cast away, she hauing onely escaped, wherein there were
great riches, and many men lost, as it may well be thought: so that they
made their account, that of 220 ships that for certaine were knowen to haue
put out of Noua Spagna, S. Domingo, Hauana, Capo verde, Brasilia, Guinea,
&c. in the yeere 1589. to saile for Spaine and Portugall, there were not
aboue 14 or 15 of them arriued there in safetie, all the rest being either
drowned, burst or taken.

In the same moneth of Ianuarie there arriued in Tercera 15 or 16 ships that
came from Siuil, which were most Flieboats of the Low countries, and some
Britons that were arrested in Spaine: these came full of souldiers, and
well appointed with munition, to lade the siluer that lay in Tercera, and
to fetch Aluares de Flores by the kings commandement into Spaine. And
because that time of the yeere there are alwayes stormes about those
Ilands, therefore they durst not enter into the road of Tercera, for that
as then it blew so great a storme that some of their ships that had ankred
were forced to cut downe their mastes, and were in danger to be lost: and
among the rest a ship of Biscaie ran against the land and was striken in
pieces, but all the men saued themselues. The other ships were forced to
keepe the sea and seperate themselues one from the other, where wind and
weather would driue them vntill the 15 of March for that in all that time
they could not haue one day of faire weather to anker in, whereby they
endured much miserie, cursing both the siluer and the Iland. This storme
being past, they chanced to meet with a small English ship of about 40
tunnes in bignesse, which by reason of the great wind could not beare all
her sailes: so they set vpon her and tooke her, and with the English flag
in their Admirals sterne, they came as proudly into the hauen as if they
had conquered all the realme of England: but as the Admirall that bare the
English flag vpon her sterne was entring into the road, there came by
chance two English ships by the Iland that paied her so well for her
paines, that they were forced to cry Misericordia, and without all doubt
had taken her, if she had bene but a mile further in sea: but because she
got vnder the Fortresse, which also began to shoot at the Englishmen, they
were forced to leaue her, and to put further into the sea, hauing slaine
fiue or sixe of the Spaniards. The Englishmen that were taken in the small
shippe were put vnder hatches, and coupled in bolts, and after they had
bene prisoners 3 or 4 dayes, there was a Spanish Ensigne bearer in the ship
that had a brother slaine in the Fleet that came for England, who as then
minding to reuenge his death, and withall to shew his manhood on the
English captiues that were in the English ship, which they had taken, as is
aforesayd, tooke a poiniard in his hand and went downe vnder the hatches,
where finding the poore Englishmen sitting in boltes, with the same
poiniard he stabbed sixe of them to the heart: which two others of them
perceiuing, clasped each other about the middle, because they would not be
murthered by him, and threw themselues into the sea and there were drowned.
This acte was of all the Spaniards much disliked and very ill taken, so
that they caried the Spaniard prisoner vnto Lisbon, where being arriued,
the king of Spaine willed he should be sent into England, that the Queene
of England might vse him as she thought good: which sentence his friends by
intreatie got to be reuersed, notwithstanding he commanded he should
without all fauour be beheaded: but vpon a good Friday the Cardinall going
to masse, all the captaines and Commanders made so great intreaty for him,
that in the end they got his pardon. This I thought good to note, that men
might vnderstand the bloody and dishonest minds of the Spaniards when they
haue men vnder their subiection.

The same two English ships which folowed the Spanish Admirall till he had
got the Fort of Tercera, as I sayd before, put into the sea, where they met
with another Spanish ship being of the same Fleet, that had likewise bene
scattred by the storme and was onely missing, for the rest lay in the road.
This small ship the Englishmen tooke, and sent all the men on shore, not
hurting any of them: but if they had knowen what had bene done vnto the
foresayd English captiues I belieue they would soone haue reuenged
themselues, as afterward many an innocent soule paied for it. This ship
thus taken by the Englishmen, was the same that was taken and confiscated
in the Iland of Tercera by the Englishmen that got out of the Iland in a
fisher boat (as I said before) and was sold vnto the Spaniards that as then
came from the Indies, wherewith they sayled to S. Lucar, where it was also
arrested by the duke, and appointed to go in company to fetch the siluer in
Tercera, because it was a ship that sailed well, but among the Spaniards
Fleet it was the meanest of the company. By this means it was taken from
the Spaniards and caried into England, and the owners had it againe when
they least thought of it.

The 19 of March the aforesayd ships being 19 in number, set saile, hauing
laden the kings siluer, and receiued in Aluaro Flores de Quiniones, with
his company and good prouision of necessaries, munition and souldiers that
were fully resolued (as they made shew) to fight valiantly to the last man
before they would yeeld or lose their riches: and although they set their
course for S. Lucar, the wind draue them vnto Lisbon, which (as it seemed)
was willing by his force to helpe them, and to bring them thither in
safetie, although Aluaro de Flores, both against the wind and weather would
perforce haue sailed to Saint Lucar, but being constrained by the wind and
importunitie of the sailers that protested they would require their losses
and damages of him, he was content to saile to Lisbon: from whence the
siluer was by land caried vnto Siuil. At Cape S. Vincent there lay a Fleet
of 20 English ships to watch for the Armada, so that if they had put into
S. Lucar, they had fallen right into their hands, which if the wind had
serued they had done. And therefore they may say that the wind hath lent
them a happy voiage: for if the Englishmen had met with them, they had
surely bene in great danger, and possibly but few of them had escaped, by
reason of the feare wherewith they were possessed, because fortune of
rather God was wholy against them: which is a sufficient cause to make the
Spaniards out of heart, and to the contrary to giue the Englishmen more
courage, and to make them bolder for that they are victorious, stout and
valiant: and seeing all their enterprises do take so good effect, that
thereby they are become lords and masters of the sea, and need care for no
man, as it wel appeareth by this briefe discourse.

The 7 of August 1590. a nauie of English ships was seene before Tercera,
being 20 in number, and 5 of them the Queenes ships: their Generall was one
Martin Frobisher, as we after had intelligence. They came purposely to
watch for the Fleet of the Spanish Indies, and for the Indian ships, and
the ships of the countreys in the West: which put the Ilanders in great
feare, specially those of Fayal, for that the Englishmen sent a trumpet to
the Gouernour to aske certaine wine, flesh, and other victuals for their
money and good friendship. They of Fayal did not onely refuse to giue eare
vnto them, but with a shot killed their messenger or trumpeter: which the
Englishmen tooke in euil part, sending them word that they were best to
looke to themselues and stand vpon their guard, for they ment to come and
visite them whether they would or no. The Gouernour made them answere that
he was there in the behalfe of his maiestie of Spaine, and that he would
doe his best to keepe them out, as he was bound: but nothing was done,
although they of Fayal were in no little feare, sending to Tercera for
aide, from whence they had certaine barkes with ponder and munition for
warre, with some bisket and other necessary prouision.

The 30 of August we receiued very certaine newes out of Portugal, that
there were 80 ships put out of the Groine laden with victuals, munition,
money and souldiers, to goe for Britaine to aide the Catholiques and
Leaguers of France against the king of Nauarre. At the same time two
Netherland hulkes comming out of Portugall to Tercera being halfe the Seas
ouer, met with 4 of the Queenes ships, their Generall being sir Iohn
Hawkins, that staied them, but let them go againe without doing them any
harme. The Netherlanders reported, that each of the Queenes ships had 80
pieces of Ordinance, and that captaine Drake lay with 40 ships in the
English chanell watching for the armie of the Groine: and likewise that
there lay at the Cape S. Vincent ten other English ships, that if any ships
escaped from the Ilands, they might take them. These tidings put the
Ilanders in great feare, least if they failed of the Spanish fleete and got
nothing by them, that then they would fall vpon the Ilands, because they
would not returne emptie home, whereupon they held streit watch, sending
aduise vnto the king what newes they heard.

The first of September there came to the Iland of S. Michael a Portugall
ship out of the hauen of Phernambuck in Brasile, which brought newes that
the Admirall of the Portugall Fleet that came from India, hauing missed the
Iland of S. Helena, was of necessitie constrained to put into Phernambuck,
although the king had expresly vnder a great penaltie forbidden him so to
doe, because of the wormes that there doe spoile the ships. The same shippe
wherein Bernardin Ribero was Admirall the yeere before 1589. sailed out of
Lisbon into the Indies, with 5 ships in her company, whereof but 4 got into
India, the 5 was neuer heard of, so that it was thought to be cast away:
the other foure returned safe againe into Portugall, though the Admiral was
much spoiled, because he met with two English ships that fought long with
him, and slew many of his men, but yet he escaped from them.

The 5 of the same moneth there arriued in Tercera a carauel of the Iland of
Coruo, and brought with her 50 men that had bin spoiled by the Englishmen
who had set them on shore in the Iland of Coruo, being taken out of a ship
that came from the Spanish Indies, they brought tidings that the Englishmen
had taken 4 more of the Indian ships, and a carauel with the king of
Spaines letters of aduise for the ships comming out of the Portugal Indies,
and that with those which they had taken, they were at the least 40 English
ships together, so that not one bark escaped them, but fel into their
hands, and that therefore the Portugall ships comming out of India durst
not put into the Ilands, but tooke their course vnder 40 and 42 degrees,
and from thence sailed to Lisbon, shunning likewise the cape S. Vincent,
otherwise they could not haue had a prosperous iourney of it, for that as
then the sea was ful of English ships. [Sidenote: Great hauock of
Spaniards.] Whereupon the king aduised the fleete lying in Hauana in the
Spanish Indies ready to come for Spaine, that they should stay there all
that yeere till the next yeere, because of the great danger they might fal
into by the Englishmen, which was no smal charge, and hinderance to the
fleet, for that the ships that lie there do consume themselues, and in a
manner eat vp one another, by reason of the great number of people,
together with the scarcitie of al things, so that many ships chose rather
one by one to aduenture themselues alone to get home, then to stay there:
all which fell into the Englishmen hands, whereof diuers of the men were
brought into Tercera, for that a whole day we could see nothing els, but
spoiled men set on shore, some out of one ship, some out of another, that
pitie it was to see all of them cursing the Englishmen and their owne
fortunes, with those that had bene the causes to prouoke the Englishmen to
fight, and complaining of the small remedie and order taken therein by the
king of Spaines officers.

The 19 of the same moneth there came to Tercera a Carauel of Lisbon, with
one of the kings officers, to cause the goods that were saued out of the
ship which came from Malacca (for the which we staied there) to be laden
and sent to Lisbon. And at the same time there put out of the Groine one
Don Alonso de Baçan, with 40 great ships of warre to come vnto the Ilands,
there to watch for the fleet of the Spanish and Portugall Indies, and the
goods of the Malacca ship being laden, they were to convoy them all
together into the riuer of Lisbon: but being certaine daies at sea, alwaies
hauing a contrary wind, they could not get vnto the Ilands, onely two of
them that were scattred from the fleet, arriued at Tercera, and not finding
the fleet, they presently returned to seeke them: in the meane time the
king changed his mind, and caused the fleet to stay in India, as I said
before: and therefore hee sent worde vnto Don Alonso de Bassan, that hee
should returne againe to the Groine, which he presently did (without doing
any thing, nor once approching neer the Ilands, sauing onely the two
foresayd ships, for he well knew that the Englishmen lay by the Iland of
Coruo, but he would not visit them): and so he returned to the hauen the
Groine, whereby our goods that came from Malacca were yet to ship, and
trussed vp againe, and forced to stay a more fortunate time with patience
perforce.

The 23 of October there arriued in Tercera a Carauel with aduise out of
Portugall, that of 5 ships which in the yere 1590 were laden in Lisbon for
the Indies, 4 of them were turned againe to Portin. After they had bene 4
moneths abroad, and that the Admirall, wherein the Viceroy called Mathias
d'Albukerk sailed, had onely gotten to India, as afterward newes thereof
was brought ouer-land, hauing bin at the least 11 moneths at sea and neuer
saw land, and came in great misery to Malacca. In this ship there died by
the way 280 men, according to a note by himselfe made, and sent to the
Cardinal at Lisbon, with the names and surnames of euery man, together with
a description of his voiage, and the misery they had endured, which was
onely done, because he would not lose the gouernment of India: and for that
cause he had sworne either to lose his life, or to arriue in India, as in,
deed he did afterwards, but to the great danger, losse and hinderance of
his companie, that were forced to buy it with their liues, and onely for
want of prouision, as it may wel be thought: for he knew full well that if
he had returned backe againe into Portugal as the other ships did, he
should haue bin cassiered from his Indian regiment, because the people
began already to murmure at him for his proud and lofty mind. And among
other things that shewed his pride the more, behind aboue the gallery of
his ship he caused Fortune to be painted, and his own picture with a staffe
standing by her, as it were threatning Fortune, with this posie, Quero que
vencas, that is, I wil haue thee to ouercome: which being read by the
Cardinal and other gentlemen (that to honor him brought him aboord his
ship) it was thought to be a point of exceeding folly: but it is no strange
matter among the Portugals: for they aboue all others must of force let the
foole peepe out of their sleeues, specially when they are in authority, for
that I knew the said Mathias d'Albukerk in India, being a souldier and a
captaine, where he was esteemed and accounted for one of the best of them,
and much honoured, and beloued of all men, as behauing himselfe curteously
to euery man, whereby they all desired that he might be Viceroy. But when
he once had receiued his patent with full power and authoritie from the
king to be Viceroy, he changed so much from his former behauiour, that by
reason of his pride, they all began to feare and curse him, and that before
hee departed out of Lisbon, as it is often seene in many men that are
aduanced vnto state and dignitie.

The 20 of Ianuarie 1591. there was newes brought out of Portugall into
Tercera, that the Englishmen had taken a ship that the king had sent into
the Portugall Indies, with aduise to the Viceroy for the returning againe
of the 4 ships that should haue gone to India, and because the ships were
come backe againe, that ship was stuffed and laded as full of goods as
possible it might be, hauing likewise in ready money 500 thousand duckets
in roials of 8, besides other wares. It departed from Lisbon in the moneth
of Nouember 1590. and met with the Englishmen, with whom for a time it
fought, but in the end it was taken and caried into England with men and
all, yet when they came there, the men were set at libertie, and returned
into Lisbon, where the captaine was committed prisoner; but he excused
himselfe and was released, with whom I spake my selfe, and he made this
report vnto me. At the same time also they tooke a ship that came from the
Mine laden with gold, and 2 ships laden with pepper and spices that were to
saile into Italy, the pepper onely that was in them, being worth 170
thousand duckets: all these ships were caried into England, and made good
prise.

In the moneth of Iuly 1591. there hapned an earthquake in the Iland of S.
Michael, which continued from the 26 of Iuly, to the 12 of August, in which
time no man durst stay within his house but fled into the fields, fasting
and praying with great sorow, for that many of their houses fel down, and a
towne called Villa Franca, was almost cleane razed to the ground, all the
cloisters and houses shaken to the earth, and therein some people slaine.
The land in some places rose vp, and the cliffs remooued from one place to
another, and some hils were defaced and made euen with the ground. The
earthquake was so strong, that the ships which lay in the road and on the
sea, shaked as if the world would haue turned round: there sprang also a
fountaine out of the earth, for whence for the space of 4 daies, there
flowed a most cleare water, and after that it ceased. At the same time they
heard such thunder and noise vnder the earth, as if all the deuils in hell
had bin assembled together in that place, wherewith many died for feare.
The Iland of Tercera shooke 4 times together, so that it seemed to turne
about, but there hapned no misfortune vnto it. Earthquakes are common in
those Ilands, for about 20 yeres past there hapned another earthquake,
wherein a high hill that lieth by the same towne of Villa Franca, fell
halfe downe, and couered all the towne with earth, and killed many men. The
25 of August the kings Armada comming out of Ferol arriued in Tercera being
in all 30 ships, Biskaines, Portugals and Spaniards, and 10 Dutch flieboats
that were arrested in Lisbon to serue the king, besides other small ships
and pataxos, that came to serue as messengers from place to place, and to
discouer the seas. This nauie came to stay for, and conuoy the ships that
should come from the Spanish Indies, and the flieboats were appointed in
their returne home, to take in the goods that were saued in the lost ship
that came from Malacca, and to conuoy them to Lisbon.

The 13 of September the said Armada arriued at the Iland of Coruo, where
the Englishmen with about 16 ships as then lay, staying for the Spanish
fleet, whereof some or the most part were come, and there the English were
in good hope to haue taken them. But when they perceiued the kings army to
be strong, the Admiral being the lord Thomas Howard, commanded his Fleet
not to fal vpon them, nor any of them once to separate their ships from
him, vnlesse he gaue commission so to do: notwithstanding the viceadmirall
sir Richard Greenuil being in the ship called the Reuenge, went into the
Spanish fleet, and shot among them doing them great hurt, and thinking the
rest of the company would haue folowed, which they did not, but left him
there, and sailed away: the cause why could not be knowen. Which the
Spaniards perceiuing, with 7 or 8 ships they boorded her, but she withstood
them all, fighting with them at the least 12 houres together and sunke two
of them, one being a new double Flieboat of 600 tunnes, and Admiral of the
Flieboats, the other a Biscain; but in the end by reason of the number that
came vpon her, she was taken, but to their great losse: for they had lost
in fighting and by drowning aboue 400 men, and of the English were slaine
about 100, Sir Richard Greenuil himselfe being wounded in his braine,
whereof afterwards he died. He was caried into the ship called S. Paul,
wherein was the Admirall of the fleet Don Alonso de Baçan: there his wounds
were drest by the Spanish surgeons, but Don Alonso himselfe would neither
see him nor speake with him: all the rest of the Captaines and gentlemen
went to visite him, and to comfort him in his hard fortune wondering at his
courage and stout heart, for that he shewed not any signe of faintnes nor
changing of colour; but feeling the houre of death to approch, he spake
these words in Spanish, and said: Here die I Richard Greenuil with a ioyful
and quiet mind, for that I haue ended my life as a true souldier ought to
do, that hath fought for his countrey, Queene, religion and honor, whereby
my soule most ioyfull departeth out of this body, and shal alwayes leaue
behind it an euerlasting fame of a valiant and true souldier that hath done
his dutie as he was bound to doe. When he had finished these or such other
like words, he gaue vp the Ghost, with great and stout courage, and no man
could perceiue any true signe of heauines in him.

This sir Rich. Greenuil was a great and a rich gentleman in England, and
had great yeerely reuenues of his owne inheritance, but he was a man very
vnquiet in his mind, and greatly affected to war; insomuch as of his owne
priuate motion he offred his seruice to the Queene: he had performed many
valiant acts, and was greatly feared in these Ilands, and knowen of euery
man, but of nature very seuere, so that his owne people hated him for his
fiercenesse, and spake very hardly of him: for when they first entred into
the fleet or Armada, they had their great saile in a readinesse, and might
possibly enough haue sailed away, for it was one of the best ships for
saile in England, and the master perceiuing that the other ships had left
them, and folowed not after, commanded the great saile to be cut that they
might make away: but sir Rich. Greenuil threatned both him and al the rest
that were in the ship, that if any man laid hand vpon it, he would cause
him to be hanged, and so by that occasion they were compelled to fight and
in the end were taken. He was of so hard a complexion, that as he continued
among the Spanish captains while they were at dinner or supper with him, he
would carouse 3 or 4 glasses of wine, and in a brauerie take the glasses
betweene his teeth and crash them in pieces and swalow them downe, so that
oftentimes the blood ran out of his mouth without any harme at all vnto
him: and this was told me by diuers credible persons that many times stood
and beheld him. The Englishmen that were left in the ship, as the captaine
of the souldiers, the master and others were dispersed into diuers of the
Spanish ships that had taken them, where there had almost a new fight
arisen between the Biscains and the Portugals: while each of them would
haue the honour to haue first boorded her, so that there grew a great noise
and quarel among them, one taking the chiefe ensigne, and the other the
flag, and the captaine and euery one held his owne. The ships that had
boorded her were altogether out of order, and broken, and many of their men
hurt, whereby they were compelled to come into the Island of Tercera, there
to repaire themselues: where being arriued, I and my chamberfelow, to heare
some newes, went aboord one of the ships being a great Biscain, and one of
the 12 Apostles, whose captaine was called Bartandono, that had bin General
of the Biscains in the fleet that went for England. He seeing vs called vs
up into the gallery, where with great curtesie he receiued vs, being as
then set at dinner with the English captaine that sate by him, and had on a
sute of blacke veluet, but he could not tell vs any thing, for that he
could speake no other language but English and Latine, which Bartandano
also could a litle speake. The English captaine got licence of the
gouernour that he might come on land with his weapon by his side, and was
in our lodging with the Englishman that was kept prisoner in the Iland,
being of that ship whereof the sailers got away, as I said before. The
gouernour of Tercera bade him to dinner, and shewed him great curtesie. The
master likewise with licence of Bartandono came on land and was in our
lodging, and had at the least 10 or 12 wounds, as well in his head as on
his body, whereof after that being at sea betweene Lisbon and the Ilands he
died. The captaine wrote a letter, wherein he declared all the maner of the
fight, and left it with the English marchant that lay in our lodging, to
send it to the lord Admiral of England. This English captaine comming vnto
Lisbon, was there wel receiued and not any hurt done vnto him, but with
good conuoy sent vnto Setuuel, and from thence sailed into England with all
the rest of the Englishmen that were taken prisoners.

The Spanish armie staied at the Iland of Coruo til the last of September,
to assemble the rest of the fleet together, which in the ende were to the
number of 140 sailes of ships partly comming from India, and partly of the
army, and being altogether readie to saile to Tercera in good company,
there suddenly rose so hard and cruell a storme, that those of the Ilands
did affirme, that in mans memorie there was neuer any such seen or heard
off before: for it seemed the sea would haue swalowed vp the Ilands, the
water mounting higher then the cliffs, which are so high that it amaseth a
man to behold them: but the sea reached aboue them, and liuing fishes were
throwen vpon the land. This storme continued not only a day or two with one
wind, but 7 or 8 dayes continually, the wind turning round about in al
places of the compasse, at the lest twise or thrise during that time, and
all alike, with a continuall storme and tempest most terrible to behold,
euen to vs that were on shore, much more then to such as were at sea: so
that onely on the coasts and cliffes of the Iland of Tercera, there were
aboue 12 ships cast away, and not onely vpon the one side, but round about
it in euery corner, whereby nothing els was heard but complaining, crying,
lamenting and telling, here is a ship broken in pieces against the cliffes,
and there another, and all the men drowned: so that for the space of 20
dayes after the storme, they did nothing els but fish for dead men that
continually came driuing on the shore. [Sidenote: The wracke of the
Reuenge.] Among the rest was the English ship called the Reuenge, that was
cast away vpon a cliffe neere to the Iland of Tercera, where it brake in an
hundred pieces and sunke to the ground, hauing in her 70 men Galegos,
Biscains, and others, with some of the captiue Englishmen, whereof but one
was saued that got vp vpon the cliffes aliue, and had his body and head all
wounded, and he being on shore brought vs the newes desiring to be shriuen,
and thereupon presently died. The Reuenge had in her diuers faire brasse
pieces that were all sunke in the sea, which they of the Iland were in good
hope to waigh vp againe the next Sommer after. Among these ships that were
cast away about Tercera, was likewise a Flie-boat, one of those that had
bin arrested in Portugall to serue the king, called the white Doue, the
master of her was one Cornelius Martenson of Schiedam in Holland, and there
were in her 100 souldiers, as in euery one of the rest there were. He being
ouer-ruled by the captaine that he could not be master of his owne, sayling
here and there at the mercy of God, as the storme droue him, in the end
came within the sight of the Iland of Tercera, which the Spaniards
perceiuing thought all their safety onely to consist in putting into the
road, compelling the Master and the Pilot to make towards the Iland,
although the master refused to doe it, saying, that they were most sure
there to be cast away and vtterly spoyled: but the captaine called him
drunkard and Heretique, and striking him with a staffe, commaunded him to
doe as he would haue him. The Master, seeing this and being compelled to
doe it, sayd: well then my Masters, seeing that it is the desire of you all
to bee cast away, I can but lose one life, and therewith desperately he
sayled towards the shore, and was on that side of the Iland, where there
was nothing els but hard stones and rocks, as high as mountaines, most
terrible to beholde, where some of the inhabitants stood with long ropes
and corke bound at the ende thereof, to throw them downe, vnto the men,
that they might lay holde vpon them and saue their liues: but few of them
got so neere, most of them being cast away, and smitten in pieces before
they could get to the wall. The ship sailing in this maner (as I sayd
before) towards the Iland, and approching to the shore, the master being an
olde man, and full of yeeres, called his sonne that was in the ship with
him, and hauing imbraced one another, and taken their last farewell, the
good olde father willed his sonne not to take care for him, but seeke to
saue himselfe; for (sayd he) sonne thou art yong, and mayest haue some hope
to saue thy life, but as for me it is no great matter (I am olde) what
become of me, and therewith ech of these shedding many teares, as euery
louing father and kinde childe may well consider, the ship fell vpon the
cliffes, and brake in pieces, the father on the one side, the sonne on the
other side falling into the sea, ech laying holde vpon that which came next
to hand, but to no purpose; for the sea was so high and furious, that they
were all drowned, and onely foureteene or fifteene saued themselues by
swimming, with their legs and armes halfe broken and out of ioynt, among
which was the Masters sonne, and foure other Dutch boyes: the rest of the
Spaniards and Sailers, with the Captaine and Master, were drowned. Whose
heart would not melt with teares to beholde so grieuous a sight, specially
considering with himselfe that the greatest cause thereof was the
beastliness and insolency of the Spaniards, as in this onely example may
well be seene? Whereby may be considered how the other shippes sped, as we
ourselues did in part beholde, and by the men that were saued did heare
more at large, as also some others of our countreymen that as then were in
the like danger can well witnesse.

On the other Ilands the losse was no lesse then in Tercera: for on the
Iland of Saint George there were two ships cast away: on the Iland of Pico
two ships: on the Iland of Gratiosa three ships: and besides those there
came euery where round about diuers pieces of broken ships, and other
things fleeting towards the Ilands, wherewith the sea was all couered most
pitifull to beholde. On the Iland of S. Michael there were foure ships cast
away, and betweene Tercera and S. Michael three more were sunke, which were
seene and heard to cry out; whereof not one man was saued. [Sidenote: About
100 Spanish and Portugall ships drowned.] The rest put into the sea without
masts, all torne and rent: so that of the whole fleet and armada, being 140
ships in all, there were but 32 or 33 arriued in Spaine and Portugall, yea,
and those few with so great misery, paine and labour, that not two of them
arriued there together, but this day one, and tomorrow another, next day
the third, and so one after the other to the number aforesayd. All the rest
were cast away vpon the Ilands, and ouerwhelmed in the Sea, whereby may be
considered what great losse and hindrance they receiued at that time: for
by many mens iudgments it was esteemed to be much more then was lost by
their army that came for England: and it may well be thought, and presumed,
that it was no other but a iust plague purposely sent by God vpon the
Spaniards, and that it might truely be sayd, the taking of the Reuenge was
iustly reuenged vpon them, and not by the might or force of man, but by the
power of God, as some of them openly sayd in the Ile of Tercera, that they
beleeued verily God would consume them, and that he tooke part with the
Lutherans and heretiks: saying further that so soone as they had throwen
the dead body of the Viceadmirall Sir Richard Greenfield ouerboord, they
verily thought that as he had a diuellish faith and religion, and therefore
the diuels loued him, so he presently sunke into the bottome of the sea,
and downe into hell, where he raised vp all the diuels to the reuenge of
his death: and that they brought so great stormes and torments vpon the
Spaniards, because they onely maintained the Catholike and Romish religion.
Such and the like blasphemies against God, they ceased not openly to vtter,
without being reprooued of any man therein, nor for their false opinions:
but the most part of them rather sayd and affirmed, that of trueth it must
needs be so.

As one of those Indian fleets put out of Noua Spagna, there were 35 of them
by storme and tempest cast away and drowned in the Sea, being 50 in all; so
that but 15 escaped. Of the fleet that came from Santo Domingo there were
14 cast away, comming out of the chanell of Hauana, whereof the Admirall
and Viceadmirall were two of them: and from Terra Firma in India there came
two ships laden with golde and siluer, that were taken by the Englishmen:
and before the Spanish army came to Coruo, the Englishmen at times had
taken at the least 20 ships, that came from S. Domingo, India, Brasilia,
&c. and were all sent into England.

       *       *       *       *       *

The miraculous victory atchieved by the English Fleete, under the discreet
  and happy conduct of the right honourable, right prudent, and valiant
  lord, the L. Charles Howard, L. high Admirall of England, &c. Vpon the
  Spanish huge Armada sent in the yeere 1588. for the invasion of England,
  together with the wofull and miserable success of the said Armada
  afterward, upon the Coasts of Norway, of the Scottish Westerne Isles, of
  Ireland, Spain, France, and of England, &c. Recorded in Latine by Emanuel
  van Meteran, in the 15. Booke of his history of the Low Countreys.

Hauing in part declared the strange and wonderfull euents of the yeere
eightie eight, which hath bene so long time foretold by ancient prophesies;
we will now make relation of the most notable and great enterprise of all
others which were in the foresaid yeere atchieued, in order as it was done.
Which exploit (although in very deed it was not performed in any part of
the low Countreys) was intended for their ruine and destruction. And it was
the expedition which the Spanish king, hauing a long time determined the
same in his minde, and hauing consulted thereabout with the Pope, set
foorth and vndertooke against England and the low Countreys. To the end
that he might subdue the Realme of England, and reduce it vnto his
catholique Religion, and by that meanes might be sufficiently reuenged for
the disgrace, contempt and dishonour, which hee (hauing 34. yeeres before
enforced them to the Popes obedience) had endured of the English nation,
and for diuers other iniuries which had taken deepe impression in his
thoughts. And also for that hee deemed this to bee the most readie and
direct course, whereby hee might recouer his heredetarie possession of the
lowe Countreys, hauing restrained the inhabitants from sayling vpon the
coast of England. Which verily, vpon most weighty arguments and euident
reasons, was thought would vndoubtedly haue come to passe, considering the
great aboundance and store of all things necessary wherewith those men were
furnished, which had the managing of that action committed vnto them. But
now let vs describe the matter more particularly.

[Sidenote: The preparation of the Spanish King to subdue England and the
lowe Countreys.] The Spanish King hauing with small fruite and commoditie,
for aboue twentie yeeres together, waged warre against the Netherlanders,
after deliberation with his counsellers thereabout, thought it most
conuenient to assault them once againe by Sea, which had bene attempted
sundry times heretofore, but not with forces sufficient. Vnto the which
expedition it stoode him nowe in hand to ioyne great puissance, as hauing
the English people his professed enemies; whose Island is so situate, that
it may either greatly helpe or hinder all such as saile into those parts.
For which cause hee thought good first of all to inuade England, being
perswaded by his Secretary Escouedo, and by diuers other well experienced
Spaniards and Dutchmen, and by many English fugitiues, that the conquest of
that Island was lesse difficult then the conquest of Holland and Zeland.
Moreouer the Spaniards were of opinion, that it would bee farre more
behouefull for their King to conquere England and the lowe Countreys all at
once, then to be constrained continually to maintaine a warlike Nauie to
defend his East and West Indie Fleetes, from the English Drake, and from
such like valiant enemies.

And for the same purpose the king Catholique had giuen commandement long
before in Italie and Spaine, that a great quantitie of timber should be
felled for the building of shippes; and had besides made great preparation
of things and furniture requisite for such an expedition; as namely in
founding of brasen Ordinance, in storing vp of corne and victuals, in
trayning of men to vse warlike weapons, in leauying and mustering of
souldiers: insomuch that about the beginning of the yeere 1588. he had
finished such a mightie Nauie, and brought it into Lisbon hauen, as neuer
the like had before that time sailed vpon the Ocean sea.

A very large and particular description of this Nauie was put in print and
published by the Spaniards; wherein were set downe the number, names, and
burthens of the shippes, the number of Mariners and souldiers throughout
the whole Fleete; likewise the quantitie of their Ordinance, of their
armour, of bullets, of match, of gun-poulder, of victuals, and of all their
Nauall furniture was in the saide description particularized. Vnto all
these were added the names of the Gouernours, Captaines, Noblemen and
gentlemen voluntaries, of whom there was so great a multitude, that scarce
was there any family of accompt, or any one principall man throughout all
Spaine, that had not a brother, sonne or kinseman in that Fleete: who all
of them were in good hope to purchase vnto themselues in that Nauie (as
they termed it) inuincible endlesse glory and renowne, and to possesse
themselues of great Seigniories and riches in England, and in the lowe
Countreys. But because the said description was translated and published
out of Spanish into diuers other languages, we will here onely make an
abridgment or briefe rehearsall thereof.

[Sidenote: The number and qualitie of the ships in the Spanish Fleete, with
the souldiers, Mariners, and pieces of Ordinance.] Portugal furnished and
set foorth vnder the conduct of the duke of Medina Sidonia generall of the
Fleete, ten Galeons, two Zabraes, 1300. Mariners, 3300. souldiers, 300.
great pieces, with all requisite furniture.

Biscay, vnder the conduct of Iohn Martines de Ricalde Admiral of the whole
Fletee, set forth tenne Galeons, 4. Pataches, 700. mariners, 2000.
souldiers, 250. great pieces, &c.

Guipusco, vnder the conduct of Michael de Oquendo, tenne Galeons, 4
Pataches, 700. mariners, 2000. souldiers, 310. great pieces.

Italy with the Leuant Islands, vnder Martine de Vertendona, 10. Galeons,
800. mariners, 2000. souldiers, 310. great pieces, &c.

Castile, vnder Diego Flores de Valdez, 14. Galeons, two Pataches, 1700.
mariners, 2400. souldiers, and 380. great pieces, &c.

Andaluzia, vnder the conduct of Petro de Valdez, 10. Galeons, one Patache,
800. mariners, 2400. souldiers, 280. great pieces, &c.

Item, vnder the conduct of Iohn Lopez de Medina, 23. great Flemish hulkes,
with 700. mariners, 3200. souldiers, and 400. great pieces.

Item, vnder Hugo de Moncada, foure Galliasses containing 1200.
gally-slaues, 460. mariners, 870. souldiers, 200. great pieces, &c.

Item, vnder Diego de Mandrana, foure Gallies of Portugall, with 888.
gally-slaues, 360. mariners, 20 great pieces, and other requisite
furniture.

Item, vnder Anthonie de Mendoza, 22. Pataches and Zabraes, with 574.
mariners, 488. souldiers, and 193. great pieces.

Besides, the ships aforementioned there were 20 carauels rowed with oares,
being appointed to performe necessary seruices vnto the greater ships:
insomuch that all the ships appertayning to this Nauie amounted vnto the
summe of 150. eche one being sufficiently prouided of furniture and
victuals,

The number of mariners in the saide Fleete were aboue 8000. of slaues 2088.
of souldiers 20000. (besides noblemen and gentlemen voluntaries) of great
cast pieces 2650. The foresaid ships were of an huge and incredible
capacitie and receipt. For the whole Fleete was large ynough to containe
the burthen of 60 thousand tunnes.

[Sidenote: A description of the Galeons.] The Galeons were 64. in number,
being of an huge bignesse, and very stately built, being of marueilous
force also, and so high that they resembled great castles, most fit to
defend themselues and to withstand any assault, but in giuing any other
ships the encounter farre inferiour vnto the English and Dutch ships, which
can with great dexteritie wield and turn themselues at all assayes. The
vpperworke of the said Galeons was of thicknesse and strength sufficient to
beare off musket-shot. The lower worke and the timbers thereof were out of
measure strong, being framed of plankes and ribs foure or fiue foote in
thicknesse, insomuch that no bullets could pierce them, but such as were
discharged hard at hand: which afterward prooued true, for a great number
of bullets were founde to sticke fast within the massie substance of those
thicke plankes. Great and well pitched Cables were twined about the masts
of their shippes, to strengthen them against the battery of shot.

[Sidenote: A description of the Galliasses.] The Galliasses were of such
bignesse, that they contained within them chambers, chapels, turrets,
pulpits, and other commodities of great houses. The Galliasses were rowed
with great oares, there being in eche one of them 300. slaues for the same
purpose, and were able to do great seruice with the force of their
Ordinance. All these together with the residue aforenamed were furnished
and beautified with trumpets, streamers, banners, warlike ensignes, and
other such like ornaments.

[Sidenote: The great Ordinance, bullets, gunpoulder, and other furniture.]
Their pieces of brasen ordinance were 1600. and of yron a 1000.

The bullets thereto belonging were 120. thousand.

Item of gun-poulder 5600. quintals. Of matche 1200. quintals.

Of muskets and kaleiuers 7000. Of haleberts and partisans 10000.

Moreouer they had great store of canons, double-canons, culuerings and
field-pieces for land seruices.

[Sidenote: Their prouision of victuals and other things necessary.]
Likewise they were prouided of all instruments necessary on land to
conueigh and transport their furniture from place to place; as namely of
carts, wheeles, wagons, &C. Also they had spades, mattocks and baskets to
set pioners on worke. They had in like sort great store of mules and
horses, and whatsoeuer else was requisite for a land-armie. They were so
well stored of biscuit, that for the space of halfe a yeere, they might
allow eche person in the whole Fleete half a quintall euery moneth; whereof
the whole summe amounteth vnto an hundred thousand quintals.

Likewise of wine they had 147. thousand pipes, sufficient also for halfe a
yeeres expedition. Of bacon 6500. quintals. Of cheese three thousand
quintals. Besides fish, rise, beanes, pease, oile, vineger, &c.

Moreouer they had 12000. pipes of fresh water, and all other necessary
prouision, as namely candles, lanternes, lampes, sailes, hempe, ox-hides
and lead to stop holes that should be made with the battery of gunshot. To
be short, they brought all things expedient either for a Fleete by sea, or
for an armie by land.

This Nauie (as Diego Pimentelli afterward confessed) was esteemed by the
King himselfe to containe 32000. persons, and to cost him euery day 30.
thousand ducates.

[Sidenote: A Spanish terza consisteth of 3200. souldiers.] There were in
the said Nauie fiue terzaes of Spaniards, (which terzaes the Frenchmen call
Regiments) vnder the commaund of fiue gouernours termed by the Spaniards,
Masters of the field, and amongst the rest there were many olde and expert
souldiers chosen out of the garisons of Sicilie, Naples, and Terçera. Their
Captaines or Colonels were Diego Pimentelli, Don Francisco de Toledo, Don
Alonço de Luçon, Don Nicolas de Isla, Don Augustin de Mexia; who had eche
of them 32. companies vnder their conduct. Besides the which companies
there were many bands also of Castilians and Portugals, euery one of which
had their peculiar gouernours, captaines, officers, colours and weapons.

It was not lawfull for any man, vnder grieuous penaltie, to cary any women
or harlots in the Fleete: for which cause the women hired certaine shippes,
wherein they sailed after the Nauie: some of the which being driuen by
tempest arriued vpon the coast of France.

The generall of this mightie Nauie, was Don Alonso Perez de Guzman duke of
Medina Sidonia, Lord of S. Lucar, and knight of the golden Fleece: by
reason that the Marques of santa Cruz appointed for the same dignitie,
deceased before the time.

Iohn Martines de Ricalde was Admirall of the Fleete.

Francis Bouadilla was chiefe Marshall: who all of them had their officers
fit and requisite for the guiding and managing of such a multitude.
Likewise Martin Alorcon was appointed Vicar generall of the Inquisition,
being accompanied with more then a hundreth Monkes, to wit, Iesuites,
Capuchines, and friers mendicant. Besides whom also there were Phisitians,
Chirurgians, Apothecaries, and whatsoever else perteined vnto the
hospitall.

Ouer and besides the forenamed gouernours and officers being men of chiefe
note, there were 124. very noble and worthy Gentlemen, which went
voluntarily of their owne costs and charges, to the ende they might see
fashions, learne experience, and attaine vnto glory. Amongst whom was the
prince of Ascoli, Alonzo de Leiua, the marques de Pennafiel, the marques de
Ganes, the marques de Barlango, count de Paredes, count de Yeluas, and
diuers other marqueses and earles of the honourable families of Mendoza, of
Toledo, of Pachieco, of Cordoua, of Guzman, of Manricques, and a great
number of others.

[Sidenote: The preparation of the Duke of Parma to aide the Spaniards.]
While the Spaniards were furnishing this their Nauuie, the Duke of Parma,
at the direction of king Philip, made great preparation in the low
Countreys, to giue ayd and assistance vnto the Spaniards; building ships
for the same purpose, and sending for Pilots and shipwrights out of Italy.

In Flanders hee caused certaine deepe chanels to be made, and among the
rest the chanell of Yper commonly called Yper-lee, employing some thousands
of workemen about that seruice: to the end that by the said chanel he might
transport ships from Antwerp and Ghendt to Bruges, where hee had assembled
aboue a hundreth small ships called hoyes being well stored with victuals,
which hoyes hee was determined to haue brought into the sea by the way of
Sluys, or else to haue conueyed them by the saide Yper-lee being now of
greater depth, into any port of Flanders whatsoeuer.

In the riuer of Waten he caused 70. ships with flat bottomes to be built,
euery one of which should serue to cary 30. horses, hauing eche of them
bridges likewise for the horses to come on boord, or to goe foorth on land.
Of the same fashion he had prouided 200. other vessels at Nieuport, but not
so great. And at Dunkerk hee procured 28. ships of warre, such as were
there to be had, and caused a sufficient number of Mariners to be leuied at
Hamburgh, Breme, Emden, and at other places. Hee put in the ballast of the
said ships, great store of beames of thicke plankes, being hollow and beset
with yron pikes beneath, but on eche side full of claspes and hookes, to
ioyne them together.

Hee had likewise at Greueling prouided 20. thousand of caske, which in a
short space might be compact and ioyned together with nailes and cords, and
reduced into the forme of a bridge. To be short, whatsoeuer things were
requisite for the making of bridges, and for the barring and stopping vp of
hauens mouthes with stakes, posts, and other meanes, he commanded to be
made ready. Moreouer not farre from Neiuport hauen, he had caused a great
pile of wooden fagots to be layd, and other furniture to be brought for the
rearing vp of a mount. The most part of his ships conteined two ouens a
piece to bake bread in, with a great number of sadles, bridles, and such
other like apparell for horses. They had horses likewise, which after their
landing should serue to conuey, and draw engines, field-pieces, and other
warlike prouisions.

Neere vnto Neiuport he had assembled an armie, ouer the which he had
ordained Camillo de Monte to be Camp-master. This army consisted of 30.
bands or ensignes of Italians, of tenne bands of Wallons, eight of Scots,
and eight of Burgundians, all which together amount vnto 56. bands, euery
band containing a hundreth persons. Neare vnto Dixmund there were mustered
80. bands of Dutch men, sixtie of Spaniards, sixe of high Germans, and
seuen bands of English fugitiues, vnder the conduct of sir William Stanley
an English knight.

In the suburbes of Cortreight there were 4000. horsemen together with their
horses in a readinesse: and at Waten 900. horses, with the troupe of the
Marques Del Gwasto Captaine generall of the horsemen.

Vnto this famous expedition and presupposed victorie, many potentates,
princes, and honourable personages hied themselues: out of Spaine the
prince of Melito called the duke of Pastrana and taken to be the sonne of
one Ruygomes de Silua, but in very deed accompted among the number of king
Philips base sonnes. Also the Marques of Burgraue, one of the sonnes of
Archiduke Ferdinand and Philippa Welsera. Vespasian Gonsaga of the family
of Mantua, being for chiualry a man of great renowne, and heretofore
Vice-roy in Spaine. Item Iohn Medices base sonne vnto the duke of Florence.
And Amadas of Sauoy, the duke of Sauoy his base sonne, with many others of
inferiour degrees.

[Sidenote: The Popes furtherance to the conquest of England, and of the low
countries.] Likewise Pope Sixtus quintus for the setting forth of the
foresaid expedition, as they vse to do against Turkes and infidels,
published a Cruzado, with most ample indulgences which were printed in
great numbers. These vaine buls the English and Dutchmen deriding, sayd
that the deuill at all passages lay in ambush like a thiefe, no whit
regarding such letters of safe conduct. Some there be which affirme that
the Pope had bestowed the realme of England with the title of Defensor
fidei, vpon the king of Spaine, giuing him charge to inuade it vpon this
condition, that he should enioy the conquered realm, as a vassal and
tributarie, in that regard, vnto the sea of Rome. To this purpose the said
Pope proffered a million of gold, the one halfe thereof to be paied in
readie money, and the other halfe when the realme of England or any famous
port thereof were subdued. And for the greater furtherance of the whole
businesse, he dispatched one D. Allen an English man (whom he had made
Cardinall for the same ende and purpose) into the Low countries, vnto whom
he committed the administration of all matters ecclesiasticall throughout
England. This Allen being enraged against his owne natiue countrey, caused
the Popes bull to be translated into English, meaning vpon the arriual of
the Spanish fleete to haue it so published in England. By which Bull the
excommunications of the two former Popes were confirmed, and the Queenes
most sacred Maiestie was by them most vniustly depriued of all princely
titles and dignities, her subjects being enioyned to performe obedience
vnto the duke of Parma, and vnto the Popes Legate.

But that all matters might be performed with greater secrecie, and that the
whole expedition might seeme rather to be intended against the Low
countries, then against England, and that the English people might be
perswaded that all was but bare words and threatnings, and that nought
would come to effect, there was a solemne meeting appointed at Borborch in
Flanders for a treatie of peace betweene her matestie and the Spanish king.

[Sidenote: A treatie of peace, to the end that Englad and the vnited
prouinces might be secure of inuasion.] Against which treatie the vnited
prouinces making open protestation, vsed all meanes possible to hinder it,
alleaging that it was more requisite to consult how the enemie now pressing
vpon them might be repelled from off their frontiers. Howbeit some there
were in England that greatly vrged and prosecuted this league, saying, that
it would be very commodious vnto the state of the realme, as well in regard
of traffique and nauigation, as for the auoiding of great expenses to
maintaine the warres, affirming also, that at the same time peace might
easily and vpon reasonable conditions be obtained of the Spaniard. Others
thought by this meanes to diuert some other way, or to keepe backe the nauy
now comming vpon them, and so to escape the danger of that tempest.
Howsoeuer it was, the duke of Parma by these wiles enchanted and dazeled
the eyes of many English and Dutch men that were desirous of peace:
whereupon it came to passe, that England and the vnited prouinces prepared
in deed some defence to withstand that dreadfull expedition and huge
Armada, but nothing in comparison of the great danger which was to be
feared, albeit the constant report of the whole expedition had continued
rife among them for a long time before. Howbeit they gaue eare vnto the
relation of certaine that sayd, that this nauie was prouided to conduct and
waft ouer the Indian Fleets: which seemed the more probable because the
Spaniards were deemed not to be men of so small discretion as to aduenture
those huge and monstrous ships vpon the shallow and dangerous chanel of
England.

[Sidenote: Her maiesties warlike preparation by sea.] At length when as the
French king about the end of May signified vnto her Maiestie in plaine
termes that she should stand vpon her guard, because he was now most
certainly enformed, that there was so dangerous an inuasion imminent vpon
her realme, that he feared much least all her land and sea-forces would be
sufficient to withstand it, &c. then began the Queens Maiestie more
carefully to gather her forces together, and to furnish her own ships of
warre, and the principall ships of her subiects with souldiers, weapons,
and other necessary prouision. The greatest and strongest ships of the
whole nauy she sent vnto Plimmouth vnder the conduct of the right honorable
Lord Charles Howard, lord high Admirall of England, &c. Vnder whom the
renoumed Knight Sir Francis Drake was appointed Vice-admiral. The number of
these ships was about an hundreth. The lesser ships being 30. or 40. in
number, and vnder the conduct of the lord Henry Seimer were commanded to
lie between Douer and Caleis.

[Sidenote: Her Maiesties land-forces.] On land likewise throughout the
whole realme, souldiers were mustered and trained in all places, and were
committed vnto the most resolute and faithfull captaines. And whereas it
was commonly giuen out that the Spaniard hauing once vnited himselfe vnto
the duke of Parma, meant to inuade by the riuer of Thames, there was at
Tilburie in Essex ouer-against Grauesend, a mightie army encamped, and on
both sides of the riuer fortifications were erected, according to the
prescription of Frederike Genebelli, an Italian enginier. Likewise there
were certaine ships brought to make a bridge, though it were very late
first. Vnto the sayd army came in proper person the Queens most roiall
Maiestie, representing Tomyris that Scythian warlike princesse, or rather
diuine Pallas her selfe. Also there were other such armies leuied in
England.

The principall catholique Recussants (least they should stirre vp any
tumult in the time of the Spanish inuasion) were sent to remaine at
certaine conuenient places, as namely in the Isle of Ely and at Wisbich.
And some of them were sent vnto other places, to wit, vnto sundry bishops
and noblemen, where they were kept from endangering the state of the common
wealth, and of her sacred Maiestie, who of her most gracious clemencie gaue
expresse commandement that they should be intreated with all humanity and
friendship.

[Sidenote: The preparation of the united prouinces.] The Prouinces of
Holland and Zeland, &c. giuing credite vnto their intelligence out of
Spain, made preparation to defend themselues: but because the Spanish ships
were described vnto them to be so huge, they relied partly vpon the shallow
and dangerous seas all along their costs. Wherfore they stood most in doubt
of the duke of Parma his small and flat-bottomed ships. Howbeit they had
all their ships of warre to the number of 90. and aboue, in a readinesse
for all assayes: the greater part whereof were of a small burthen, as being
more meete to saile vpon their riuers and shallow seas: and with these
ships they besieged all the hauens in Flanders, beginning at the mouth of
Scheld, or from the towne of Lillo, and holding on to Greueling and almost
vnto Caleis, and fortified all their sea-townes with strong garrisons.

Against the Spanish fleets arriual, they had provided 25. or 30. good
ships, committing the gouernment of them vnto Admirall Lonck, whom they
commanded to ioine himselfe vnto the lord Henry Seymer, lying betweene
Douer and Cales. And when as the foresaid ships (whereof the greater part
besieged the hauen of Dunkerke) were driuen by tempest into Zeland, Iustin,
of Nassau the Admiral of Zeland supplied that squadron with 35. ships being
of no great burthen, but excellently furnished with gunnes, mariners and
souldiers in great abundance, and especially with 1200. braue Musquetiers,
hauing bene accustomed vnto seafights, and being chosen out of all their
companies for the same purpose: and so the said Iustin of Nassau kept such
diligent ward in that Station that the duke of Parma could not issue foorth
with his nauy into the sea but of any part of Flanders.

[Sidenote: The Spanish fleete set saile vpon the 19. of May.] In the meaane
while the Spanish Armada set saile out of the hauen of Lisbon vpon the 19.
of May, An. Dom. 1588 vnder the conduct of the duke of Medina Sidonia,
directing their course for the Baie of Corunna, alias the Groine in
Gallicia, where they tooke in souldiers and warlike prouision, this port
being in Spaine the neerest vnto England. As they were sailing along, there
arose such a mightie tempest, that the whole Fleete was dispersed, so that
when the duke was returned vnto his company, he could not escry aboue 80.
ships in all, whereunto the residue by litle and litle ioyned themselues,
except eight which had their mastes blowen ouer-boord. One of the foure
gallies of Portingal escaped very hardly, retiring her selfe, into the
hauen. The other three were vpon the coast of Baion in France, by the
assistance and courage of one Dauid Gwin an English captiue (whom the
French and Turkish slaues aided in the same enterprise) vtterly disabled
and vanquished: one of the three being first ouercome, which conquered the
two other, with the slaughter of their gouernours and souldiers, and among
the rest of Don Diego de Mandrana with sundry others: and so these slaues
arriuing in France with the three Gallies, set themselues at liberty.

[Sidenote: They set saile from the Groine vpon the 11. of Iuly. The
Spaniards come within kenning of England. Captain Fleming.] The nauy hauing
refreshed themselues at the Groine, and receiuing daily commandement from
the king to hasten their iourney, hoised vp sailes the 11. day of July, and
so holding on their course, till the 19. of the same moneth, they came then
vnto the mouth of the narow seas or English chanel. From whence (striking
their sailes in the meane season) they dispatched certaine of their smal
ships vnto the duke of Parma. At the same time the Spanish Fleete was
escried by an English pinasse, captaine whereof was M. Thomas Fleming,
after they had bene aduertised of the Spaniards expedition by their scoutes
and espials, which hauing ranged along the coast of Spaine, were lately
returned home into Plimmouth for a new supply of victuals and other
necessaries, who considering the foresayd tempest, were of opinion that the
nauy being of late dispersed and tossed vp and downe the maine Ocean, was
by no means able to performe their intended voiage.

Moreouer, the L. Charles Howard L. high admiral of England had receiued
letters from the court, signifying vnto him that her Maiestie was
aduertised that the Spanish Fleete would not come foorth, nor was to be any
longer expected for, and therefore, that vpon her Maiesties commandement he
must send backe foure of her tallest and strongest ships vnto Chatham.

[Sidenote: The L. Admirals short warning upon the 19. of Iuly.] The lord
high Admiral of England being thus on the sudden, namely vpon the 19. of
July about foure of the clocke in the afternoone, enformed by the pinasse
of captaine Fleming aforesaid, of the Spaniards approch, with all speed and
diligence possible he warped his ships, and caused his mariners and
souldiers (the greater part of whom was absent for the cause aforesayd) to
come on boord, and that with great trouble and drfficultie, insomuch that
the lord Admiral himselfe was faine to lie without in the road with sixe
ships onely all that night, after the which many others came foorth of the
hauen. [Sidenote: The 20. of Iuly.] The very next day being the 20. of Iuly
about high noone, was the Spanish Fleete escried by the English, which with
a Southwest wind came sailing along, and passed by Plimmouth: in which
regard (according to the iudgement of many skilful nauigators) they greatly
ouershot themselues, whereas it had bene more commodious for them to haue
staied themselues there, considering that the Englishmen being as yet
vnprouided, greatly relied vpon their owne forces, and knew not the estate
of the Spanish nauy. Moreouer, this was the most conuenient port of all
others, where they might with greater securitie haue bene aduertised of the
English forces, and how the commons of the land stood affected, and might
haue stirred vp some mutinie, so that hither they should haue bent all
their puissance, and from hence the duke of Parma might more easily haue
conueied his ships.

But this they were prohibited to doe by the king and his counsell, and were
expressely commanded to vnite themselues vnto the souldiers and ships of
the said duke of Parma, and so to bring their purpose to effect. Which was
thought to be the most easie and direct course, for that they imagined that
the English and Dutch men would be vtterly daunted and dismaied thereat,
and would each man of them retire vnto his owne Prouince and Porte for the
defence thereof, and transporting the armie of the duke vnder the
protection of their huge nauy, they might inuade England.

It is reported that the chiefe commanders in the nauy, and those which were
more skilfull in nauigation, to wit, Iohn Martines de Ricalde, Diego Flores
de Valdez, and diuers others found fault that they were bound vnto so
strict directions and instructions, because that in such a case many
particular accidents ought to concurre and to be respected at one and the
same instant, that is to say, the opportunitie of the wind, weather, time,
tide, and ebbe, wherein they might saile from Flanders to England.
Oftentimes also the darkenesse and light, the situation of places, the
depths and shoulds were to be considered: all which especially depended
vpon the conuenience of the windes, and were by so much the more dangerous.

But it seemeth that they were enioined by their commission to ancre neere
vnto, or about Caleis, whither the duke of Parma with his ships and all his
warrelike prouision was to resort, and while the English and Spanish great
ships were in the midst of their conflict, to passe by, and to land his
souldiers vpon the Downes.

The Spanish captiues reported that they were determined first to haue
entred the riuer of Thames, and thereupon to haue passed with small ships
vp to London, supposing that they might easily winne that rich and
flourishing Citie being but meanely fortified and inhabited with Citizens
not accustomed to the warres, who durst not withstand their first
encounter, hoping moreouer to finde many rebels against her Maiestie and
popish catholiques, or some fauourers of the Scottish queene (which was not
long before most iustly beheaded) who might be instruments of sedition.

Thus often aduertising the duke of Parrna of their approch, the 20. of Iuly
they passed by Plimmouth, which the English ships pursuing and getting the
wind of them, gaue them the chase and the encounter, and so both Fleets
frankly exchanged their bullets.

[Sidenote: The 21. of Iuly.] The day following which was the 21. of Iuly,
the English ships approched within musquet shot of the Spanish: at what
time the lorde Charles Howard most hotly and valiantly discharged his
Ordinance vpon the Spanish Vice-admirall. The Spaniards then well
perceiuing the nimblenesse of the English ships in discharging vpon the
enimie on all sides, gathered themselues close into the forme of an halfe
moone, and slackened their sailes, least they should outgoe any of their
companie. And while they were proceeding on in this maner, one of their
great Galliasses was so furiously battered with shot, that the whole nauy
was faine to come vp rounder together for the safegard thereof: whereby it
came to passe that the principall Galleon of Siuill (wherein Don Pedro de
Valdez, Vasques de Silua, Alonzo de Sayas, and other noble men were
embarqued) falling foule of another shippe, had her fore-mast broken, and
by that meanes was not able to keepe way with the Spanish Fleete, neither
would the sayde Fleete stay to succour it, but left the distressed Galeon
behind. The lord Admirall of England when he saw this ship of Valdez, and
thought she had bene voyd of Mariners and Souldiers, taking with him as
many shippes as he could, passed by it, that he might not loose sight of
the Spanish Fleet that night. For sir Francis Drake (who was
notwithstanding appointed to beare out his lanterne that night) was giuing
of chase vnto fiue great Hulkes which had separated themselues from the
Spanish Fleete: but finding them to be Easterlings, he dismissed them. The
lord Admirall all that night following the Spanish lanterne in stead of the
English, found himselfe in the morning to be in the midst of his enimies
Fleete, but when he perceiued it, he cleanly conueyed himselfe out of that
great danger.

[Sidenote: The 22. of Iuly.] The day folowing, which was the two and
twentie of Iuly, Sir Francis Drake espied Valdez his shippe, whereunto hee
sent foorth his pinasse, and being aduertised that Valdez himselfe was
there, and 450. persons with him, he sent him word that he should yeeld
himselfe. Valdez for his honors sake caused certaine conditions to be
propounded vnto Drake: who answered Valdez that he was not now at laisure
to make any long parle, but if he would yeeld himselfe, he should find him
friendly and tractable: howbeit if he had resolued to die in fight, he
should prooue Drake to be no dastard.

[Sidenote: Don Pedro de Valdez with his ship and company taken.] Vpon which
answere Valdez and his company vnderstanding that they were fallen into the
hands of fortunate Drake, being mooued with the renoume and celebritie of
his name, with one consent yeelded themselues, and found him very
fauourable vnto them. Then Valdez with 40. or 50. noblemen and gentlemen
pertaining vnto him, came on boord sir Francis Drakes ship. The residue of
his ship were caried vnto Plimmouth, where they were detained a yere and an
halfe for their ransome.

Valdez comming vnto Drake and humbly kissing his hand protested vnto him,
that he and they had resolued to die in battell, had they not by good
fortune fallen into his power, whom they knew to be right curteous and
gentle, and whom they had heard by generall report to bee most favourable
vnto his vanquished foe: insomuch that he sayd it was to bee doubted
whether his enimies had more cause to admire and loue him for his great,
valiant, and prosperous exploites, or to dread him for his singular
felicitie and wisedom, which euer attended vpon him in the warres, and by
the which hee had attained vnto so great honour. With that Drake embraced
him and gaue him very honourable entertainement, feeding him at his owne
table, and lodging him in his cabbin.

Here Valdez began to recount vnto Drake the forces of all the Spanish
Fleet, and how foure mightie Gallies were separated by tempest from them,
and also how they were determined first to haue put into Plimmouth hauen,
not expecting to bee repelled thence by the English ships which they
thought could by no meanes withstand their impregnable forces, perswading
themselues that by means of their huge Fleete, they were become lords and
commaunders of the maine Ocean. For which cause they marueled much how the
English men in their small ships durst approch within musket shot of the
Spaniards mightie wooden castles, gathering the wind of them with many
other such like attempts.

Immediately after, Valdez and his company, being a man of principal
authoritie in the Spanish Fleete, and being descended of one and the same
familie with that Valdez, which in the yeere 1574 besieged Leiden in
Holland, were sent captiues into England. There were in the sayd ship 55.
thousand duckates in ready money of the Spanish kings gold, which the
souldiers merily shared among themselues.

[Sidenote: A great Biscaine ship taken by the English.] The same day was
set on fire one of their greatest shippes, being Admirall of the squadron
of Guipusco, and being the shippe of Michael de Oquendo Vice-admirall of
the whole Fleete, which contained great store of gunnepowder and other
warrelike prouision. The vpper part onely of this shippe was burnt, and an
the persons therein contained (except a very few) were consumed with fire.
And thereupon it was taken by the English, and brought into England with a
number of miserable burnt and skorched Spaniards. Howbeit the gunpowder (to
the great admiration of all men) remained whole and vnconsumed.

In the meane season the lord Admirall of England in his ship called the
Arke-royall, all that night pursued the Spaniards so neere, that in the
morning hee was almost left alone in the enimies Fleete, and it was foure
of the clocke at afternoone before the residue of the English Fleet could
ouertake him.

At the same time Hugo de Moncada gouernour of the foure Galliasses, made
humble sute vnto the Duke of Medina that he might be licenced to encounter
the Admirall of England: which libertie the duke thought not good to permit
vnto him, because hee was loth to exceed the limites of his commission and
charge.

[Sidenote: The 23. of Iuly.] Vpon Tuesday which was the three and twentie
of Iuly, the nauie being come ouer against Portland, the wind began to
turne Northerly, insomuch that the Spaniards had a fortunate and fit gale
to inuade the English. But the Englishmen hauing lesser and nimbler Ships,
recouered againe the vantage of the winde from the Spaniards, whereat the
Spaniards seemed to bee more incensed to fight then before. But when the
English Fleete had continually and without intermission from morning to
night, beaten and battered them with all their shot both great and small:
the Spaniardes vniting themselves, gathered their whole Fleete close
together into a roundell, so that it was apparant that they ment not as yet
to inuade others, but onely to defend themselues and to make hast vnto the
place prescribed vnto them, which was neere vnto Dunkerk, that they might
ioine forces with the Duke of Parma, who was determined to haue proceeded
secretly with his small shippes vnder the shadow and protection of the
great ones, and so had intended circumspectly to performe the whole
expedition.

This was the most furious and bloodie skirmish of all, in which the lord
Admirall of England continued fighting amidst his enimies Fleete, and
seeing one of his Captaines afarre off, hee spake vnto him in these wordes:
Oh George what doest thou? Wilt thou nowe frustrate my hope and opinion
conceiued of thee? Wilt thou forsake me nowe? With which wordes hee being
enflamed, approched foorthwith, encountered the enemie, and did the part of
a most valiant Captaine. His name was George Fenner, a man that had bene
conuersant in many Sea-fights.

[Sidenote: A great Venetian ship and other small ships taken by the
English.] In this conflict there was a certaine great Venetian ship with
other small ships surprised and taken by the English.

The English nauie in the meane while increased, whereunto out of all Hauens
of the Realme resorted ships and men: for they all with one accord came
flocking thither as vnto a set field, where immortall fame and glory was to
be attained, and faithfult seruice to bee performed vnto their prince and
countrey.

In which number there were many great and honourable personages, as namely,
the Erles of Oxford, of Northumberland, of Cumberland, &c. with many
Knights and Gentlemen: to wit, Sir Thomas Cecill, Sir Robert Cecill, Sir
Walter Raleigh, Sir William Hatton, Sir Horatio Palauacini, Sir Henry
Brooke, Sir Robert Carew, Sir Charles Blunt, Master Ambrose Willoughbie,
Master Henry Nowell, Master Thomas Gerard, Master Henry Dudley, Master
Edward Darcie, Master Arthur Gorge, Master Thomas Woodhouse, Master William
Haruie, &c. And so it came to passe that the number of the English shippes
amounted vnto an hundreth: which when they were come before Douer, were
increased to an hundred and thirtie, being notwithstanding of no
proportionable bignesse to encounter with the Spaniards, except two or
three and twentie of the Queehes greater shippes, which onely, by reason of
their presence, bred an opinion in the Spaniardes mindes concerning the
power of the English Fleet: the mariners and souldiers whereof were
esteemed to be twelue thousand.

[Sidenote: The 24 of Iuly.] The foure and twentie of Iuly when as the sea
was calme, and no winde stirring, the fight was onely betweene the foure
great Galleasses and the English shippes, which being rowed with Oares, had
great vauntage of the sayd English shippes, which notwithstanding for all
that would not bee forced to yeeld, but discharged their chaine-shot to cut
assunder the Cables and Cordage of the Galliasses, with many other such
Stratagemes. They were nowe constrained to send their men on land for a
newe supplie of Gunne-powder, whereof they were in great skarcitie, by
reason they had so frankely spent the greater part in the former conflicts.

The same day, a Counsell being assembled, it was decreed that the English
Fleete should be diuided into foure squadrons: the principall whereof was
committed vnto the lord Admirall: the second to Sir Francis Drake: the
third, to Captaine Hawkins: the fourth, to Captaine Frobisher.

The Spaniards in their sailing obserued very diligent and good order,
sayling three and foure, and sometimes more ships in a ranke, and folowing
close vp one after another, and the stronger and greater ships protecting
the lesser.

[Sidenote: The 25. of Iuly.] The fiue and twenty of Iuly when the
Spaniardes were come ouer-gainst the Isle of Wight, the lord Admirall of
England being accompanied with his best ships, (namely the Lion, Captaine
whereof was the lord Thomas Howard: The Elizabeth Ionas vnder the
commandement of Sir Robert Southwel sonne in lawe vnto the lord Admirall:
the Beare vnder the lord Sheffield nephew vnto the lord Admirall: the
Victorie vnder Captaine Barker: and the Galeon Leicester vnder the
forenamed Captaine George Fenner) with great valour and dreadfull
thundering of shot, encountered the Spanish Admirall being in the very
midst of all his Fleet. Which when the Spaniard perceiued, being assisted
with his strongest ships, he came foorth and entered a terrible combate
with the English: for they bestowed each on other the broad sides, and
mutually discharged all their Ordinance, being within one hundred, or an
hundred and twentie yards one of another.

At length the Spaniardes hoised vp their sayles, and againe gathered
themselues vp close into the forme of a roundel. In the meane while
Captaine Frobisher had engaged himselfe into a most dangerous conflict.
Whereupon the lord Admirall comming to succour him, found that hee had
valiantly and discreetly behaued himselfe, and that hee had wisely and in
good time giuen ouer the fight, because that after so great a batterie he
had sustained no damage.

[Sidenote: The 26. of Iuly.] For which cause the day following, being the
sixe and twentie of Iuly, the lord Admirall rewarded him with the order of
knighthood, together with the lord Thomas Howard, the lord Sheffield, M.
Iohn Hawkins and others.

The same day the lord Admirall receiued intelligence from Newhauen in
France, by certaine of his Pinasses, that all things were quiet in France,
and that there was no preparation of sending aide vnto the Spaniards, which
was greatly feared from the Guisian faction, and from the Leaguers: but
there was a false rumour spread all about, that the Spaniards had conquered
England.

[Sidenote: The 27. of Iuly. The Spaniards ancre before Caleis.] The seven
and twentie of Iuly, the Spaniards about the sunne-setting were come
ouer-against Douer, and rode at ancre within the sight of Caleis, intending
to hold on for Dunkerk, expecting there to ioyne with the Duke of Parma
his, forces, without which they were able to doe litle or nothing.

Likewise the English Fleete following vp hard vpon them, ancred just by
them within culuering-shot. And here the lord Henry Seymer vnited himselfe
vnto the lord Admiral with his fleete of 30. ships which road before the
mouth of Thames.

As the Spanish nauie therefore lay at ancre, the Duke of Medina sent
certaine messengers vnto the duke of Parma, with whom vpon that occasion
many Noblemen and Gentleman went to refresh themselues on land: and amongst
the rest the prince of Ascoli, being accounted the kings base sonne, and a
very proper and towardly yong gentleman, to his great good, went on shore,
who was by so much the more fortunate, in that hee had not opportunitie to
returne on boord the same ship, out of which he was departed, because that
in returning home it was cast away vpon the Irish coast, with all the
persons contained therein.

The duke of Parma being aduertised of the Spanish Fleetes arriual vpon the
coast of England, made all the haste hee could to bee present himselfe in
this expedition for the performance of his charge: vainely perswading
himselfe that nowe by the meanes of Cardinall Allen, hee should be crowned
king of England, and for that cause hee had resigned the government of the
Lowe countries vnto Count Mansfeld the elder. [Sidenote: The 28. of Iuly.]
And having made his vowes vnto S. Mary of Hall in Henault (whom he went to
visite for his blind deuotions sake) he returned toward Bruges the 28. of
Iuly.

[Sidenote: The 29. of Iuly.] The next day trauelling to Dunkerk hee heard
the thundering Ordinance of either Fleet: and the same euening being come
to Dixmud, hee was giuen to vnderstand the hard successe of the Spanish
Fleete.

[Sidenote: The 30. of Iuly.] Vpon Tuesday which was the thirtieth of Iuly,
about high noone, hee came to Dunkerk, when as all the Spanish Fleete was
now passed by: neither durst any of his ships in the meane space come
foorth to assist the sayd Spanish Fleete for feare of fiue and thirtie
warrelike ships of Holland and Zeland, which there kept watch and warde
vnder the conduct of the Admirall Iustin of Nassau.

The foresayd fiue and thirtie shippes were furnished with most cunning
mariners and olde expert souldiers, amongst the which were twelue hundred
Musketiers, whom the States had chosen out of all their garisons, and whom
they knew to haue bene heretofore experienced in sea-fights.

This nauie was giuen especially in charge not to suffer any shippe to come
out of the Hauen, not to permit any Zabraes, Pataches, or other small
vessels of the Spanish Fleete (which were more likely to aide the
Dunkerkers) to enter thereinto, for the greater ships were not to be feared
by reason of the shallow sea in that place. Howbeit the prince of Parma his
forces being as yet vnreadie, were not come on boord his shippes, onely the
English Fugitiues being seuen hundred in number vnder the conduct of Sir
William Stanley, came in fit time to haue bene embarked, because they hoped
to giue the first assault against England. The residue shewed themselues
vnwilling and loath to depart, because they sawe but a few mariners, who
were by constraint drawne into this expedition, and also because they had
very bare prouision of bread, drinke, and other necessary victuals.

Moreouer, the shippes of Holland and Zeland stood continually in their
sight, threatening shot and powder, and many inconueniences vnto them: for
feare of which shippes the Mariners and Sea-men secretly withdrew
themselues both day and night, lest that the duke of Parma his souldiers
should compell them, by maine force to goe on boord, and to breake through
the Hollanders Fleete, which all of them iudged to bee impossible by reason
of the straightnesse of the Hauen.

[Sidenote: The Spaniards vaine opinion concerning their own fleet.] But it
seemeth that the Duke of Parma and the Spaniards grounded vpon a vaine and
presumptuous expectation, that all the ships of England and of the Low
countreys would at the first sight of the Spanish and Dunkerk Nauie haue
betaken themselues to flight, yeelding them sea roome, and endeuouring only
to defend themselues, their hauens, and sea coasts from inuasion. Wherefore
their intent and purpose was, that the Duke of Parma in his small and
flat-bottomed shippes, should as it were vnder the shadow and wings of the
Spanish fleet, conuey ouer all his troupes, armour, and warlike prouision,
and with their forces so vnited, should inuade England; or while the
English fleet were busied in fight against the Spanish, should enter vpon
any part of the coast, which he thought to be most conuenient. Which
inuasion (as the captiues afterward confessed) the Duke of Parma thought
first to haue attempted by the riuer of Thames; vpon the bankes whereof
hauing at his first arriuall landed twenty or thirty thousand of his
principall souldiers, he supposed that he might easily haue woonne the
Citie of London; both because his small shippes should haue followed and
assisted his land-forces, and also for that the Citie it-selfe was but
meanely fortified and easie to ouercome, by reason of the Citizens
delicacie and discontinuance from the warres, who with continuall and
constant labour might be vanquished, if they yeelded not at the first
assault. They were in good hope also to haue mette with some rebels against
her Maiestie, and such as were discontented with the present state, as
Papists and others. Likewise they looked for ayde from the fauorers of the
Scottish Queene, who was not long before put to death; all which they
thought would haue stirred vp seditions and factions.

Whenas therefore the Spanish fleet rode at anker before Caleis, to the end
they might consult with the Duke of Parma what was best to be done
according to the Kings commandement, and the present estate of their
affairs, and had now (as we will afterward declare) purposed vpon the
second of August being Friday, with one power and consent to haue put their
intended businesse in practise; the L. Admirall of England being admonished
by her Maiesties letters from the Court, thought it most expedient either
to driue the Spanish fleet from that place, or at leastwise to giue them
the encounter: [Sidenote: The 28 of Iuly.] and for that cause (according to
her Maiesties prescription) he tooke forthwith eight of his woorst and
basest ships which came next to hand, and disburthening them of all things
which seemed to be of any value, filled them with gun-powder, pitch,
brimstone, and with other combustible and firy matter; and charging all
their ordinance with powder, bullets, and stones, he sent the sayd ships
vpon the 28 of Iuly being Sunday, about two of the clocke after midnight,
with the winde and tide against the Spanish fleet: which when they had
proceeded a good space, being forsaken of the Pilots, and set on fire,
were, directly carried vpon the King of Spaines Nauie: which fire in the
dead of the night put the Spaniards into such a perplexity and horrour (for
they feared lest they were like vnto those terrible ships, which Frederick
Ienebelli three yeeres before, at the siege of Antwerpe, had furnished with
gun-powder, stones, and dreadfull engines, for the dissolution of the Duke
of Parma his bridge, built vpon the riuer of Scheld) that cutting their
cables whereon their ankers were fastened, and hoising vp their sailes,
they betooke themselues very confusedly vnto the maine sea.

[Sidenote: The galliasse of Hugo de Moncado cast vpon the showlds before
Caleis.] In this sudden confusion, the principall and greatest of the foure
galliasses falling fowle of another ship, lost her rudder: for which cause
when she conld not be guided any longer, she was by the force of the tide
cast into a certaine showld vpon the shore of Caleis, where she was
immediately assaulted by diuers English pinasses, hoyes, and drumblers.

[Sidenote: M. Amias Preston valiantly boordeth the galliasse.] And as they
lay battering of her with their ordinance, and durst not boord her, the L.
Admirall sent thither his long boat with an hundreth choise souldiers vnder
the command of Captaine Amias Preston. Vpon whose approch their fellowes
being more emboldened, did offer to boord the galliasse: against whom the
gouernour thereof and Captaine of all the foure galliasses, Hugo de
Moncada, stoutly opposed himselfe, fighting by so much the more valiantly,
in that he hoped presently to be succoured by the Duke of Parma. In the
meane season, Moncada, after he had endured the conflict a good while,
being hitte on the head with a bullet, fell downe starke dead, and a great
number of Spaniards also were slaine in his company. The greater part of
the residue leaping ouer-boord into the sea, to saue themselues by
swimming, were most of them drowned. Howbeit there escaped among others Don
Anthonio de Manriques, a principall officer in the Spanish fleet (called by
them their Veador generall) together with a few Spaniards besides: which
Anthonio was the first man that carried certaine newes of the successe of
their fleet into Spaine.

This huge and monstrous galliasse, wherein were contained three hundred
slaues to lug at the oares, and foure hundred souldiers, was in the space
of three houres rifled in the same place; and there were found amongst
diuers other commodities 50000 ducats of the Spanish kings treasure. At
length when the slaues were released out of the fetters, the English men
would haue set the sayd ship on fire, which Monsieur Gourdon the gouernor
of Caleis, for feare of the damage which might thereupon ensue to the Towne
and Hauen, would not permit them to do, but draue them from thence with his
great ordinance.

[Sidenote: The great fight before Greueling the 29 of Iuly.] Vpon the 29 of
Iuly in the morning, the Spanish Fleet after the foresayd tumult, hauing
arranged themselues againe into order, were, within sight of Greueling,
most brauely and furiously encountered by the English; where they once
againe got the winde of the Spaniards: who suffered themselues to be
depriued of the commodity of the place in Calais rode, and of the aduantage
of the winde neere vnto Dunkerk, rather then they would change their array
or separate their forces now conioyned and vnited together, standing onely
vpon their defence.

And albeit there were many excellent and warlike ships in the English
fleet, yet scarse were there 22 or 23 among them all which matched 90 of
the Spanish ships in bignesse, or could conueniently assault them.
Wherefore the English shippes vsing their prerogatiue of nimble stirrage,
whereby they could turne and wield themselues with the winde which way they
listed, came often times very neere vpon the Spaniards, and charged them so
sore, that now and then they were but a pikes length asunder: and so
continually giuing them one broad side after another, they discharged all
their shot both great and small vpon them, spending one whole day from
morning till night in that violent kinde of conflict, vntill such time as
powder and bullets failed them. In regard of which want they thought it
conuenient not to pursue the Spaniards any longer, because they had many
great vantages of the English, namely for the extraordinary bignesse of
their ships, and also for that they were so neerely conioyned, and kept in
so good array, that they could by no meanes be fought withall one to one.
The English thought therefore, that they had right well acquited
themselues, in chasing the Spaniards first from Caleis, and then from
Dunkerk, and by that meanes to haue hindered them from ioyning with the
Duke of Parma his forces, and getting the winde of them, to haue driuen
them from their owne coasts.

The Spaniards that day sustained great losse and damage hauing many of
their shippes shot thorow and thorow, and they discharged likewise great
store of ordinance against the English; who indeed sustained some
hinderance, but not comparable to the Spaniards losse: for they lost not
any one shippe or person of account. For very diligent inquisition being
made, the English men all that time wherein the Spanish Nauie sayled vpon
their seas, are not found to haue wanted aboue one hundreth of their
people: albeit Sir Francis Drakes shippe was pierced with shot aboue forty
times, and his very cabben was twise shot thorow, and about the conclusion
of the fight, the bedde of a certaine gentleman lying weary thereupon, was
taken quite from vnder him with the force of a bullet. Likewise, as the
Earle of Northumberland and Sir Charles Blunt were at dinner vpon a time,
the bullet of a demi-culuering brake thorow the middest of their cabbin,
touched their feet, and strooke downe two of the standers by, with many
such accidents befalling the English shippes, which it were tedious to
rehearse. Whereupon it is most apparant, that God miraculously preserued
the English nation. For the L. Admirall wrote vnto her Maiestie that in all
humane reason, and according to the iudgement of all men (euery
circumstance being duly considered) the English men were not of any such
force, whereby they might, without a miracle, dare once to approch within
sight of the Spanish Fleet: insomuch that they freely ascribed all the
honour of their victory vnto God, who had confounded the enemy, and had
brought his counsels to none effect.

[Sidenote: Three Spanish shippes suncke in the fight.] The same day the
Spanish ships were so battered with English shot, that that very night and
the day following, two or three of them suncke right downe: and among the
rest a certaine great ship of Biscay, which Captaine Crosse assaulted,
which perished euen in the time of the conflict, so that very few therein
escaped drowning; who reported that the gouernours of the same shippe slew
one another vpon the occasion following: one of them which would haue
yeelded the shippe was suddenly slaine; the brother of the slaine party in
reuenge of his death slew the murtherer, and in the meane while the ship
suncke.

[Sidenote: Two galeons taken and caried into Zealand.] The same night two
Portugall galeons of the burthen of seuen or eight hundreth tunnes a piece,
to wit the Saint Philip and the Saint Matthew, were forsaken of the Spanish
Fleet, for they were so torne with shotte that the water entered into them
on all sides. In the galeon of Saint Philip was Francis de Toledo, brother
vnto the Count de Orgas, being Colonell ouer two and thirty bands: besides
other gentlemen; who seeing their mast broken with shotte, they shaped
their course, as well as they could, for the coast of Flanders: whither
when they could not attaine, the principall men in the ship committing
themseluds to their skiffe, arriued at the next towne, which was Ostend;
and the ship it selfe being left behinde with the residue of their company,
was taken by the Vlishingers.

In the other galeon, called the S. Matthew, was embarked Don Diego
Pimentelli another camp-master and colonell of 32 bands, being brother vnto
the marques of Tamnares, with many other gentlemen and captaines. Their
ship was not very great, but exceeding strong, for of a great number of
bullets which had batterd her, there were scarse 20 wherewith she was
pierced or hurt: her vpper worke was of force sufficient to beare off a
musket shot: this shippe was shot thorow and pierced in the fight before
Greueling; insomuch that the leakage of the water could not be stopped:
whereupon the duke of Medina sent his great skiffe vnto the gouernour
thereof, that he might saue himselfe and the principal persons that were in
his ship: which he, vpon a hault courage, refused to do: wherefore the Duke
charged him to saile next vnto himselfe: which the night following he could
not performe, by reason of the great abundance of water which entered his
ship on all sides; for the auoiding wherof, and to saue his ship from
sincking, he caused 50 men continually to labor at the pumpe, though it
were to small purpose. And seeing himselfe thus forsaken and separated from
his admirall, he endeuored what he could to attaine vnto the coast of
Flanders: where, being espied by 4 or 5 men of warre, which had their
station assigned them vpon the same coast, he was admonished to yeeld
himselfe vnto them. Which he refusing to do, was strongly assaulted by them
altogether, and his ship being pierced with many bullets, was brought into
farre worse case then before, and 40 of his souldiers were slaine. By which
extremity he was enforced at length to yeeld himselfe vnto Peter
Banderduess and other captaines, which brought him and his ship into
Zeland; and that other ship also last before mentioned: which both of them,
immediatly after the greater and better part of their goods were vnladen,
suncke right downe.

For the memory of this exploit, the fbresayd captaine Banderduess caused
the banner of one of these shippes to be set vp in the great Church of
Leiden in Holland, which is of so great a length, that being fastened to
the very roofe, it reached downe to the ground.

[Sidenote: A small shippe cast away about Blankenberg.] About the same time
another small ship being by necessity dtiuen vpon the coast of Flanders,
about Blankenberg, was cast away vpon the sands, the people therein being
saued. Thus almighty God would haue the Spaniards huge ships to be
presented, not onely to the view of the English, but also of the Zelanders;
that at the sight of them they might acknowledge of what small ability they
had beene to resist such impregnable forces, had not God endued them with
courage, prouidence, and fortitude, yea, and fought for them in many places
with his owne arme.

The 29. of Iuly the Spanish fleet being encountered by the English (as is
aforesayd) and lying close together vnder their fighting sailes, with a
Southwest winde sailed past Dunkerk, the English ships still following the
chase. [Sidenote: The dishonourable flight of the Spanish nauy; and the
prudent aduice of the L. Admirall.] Of whom the day following when the
Spaniards had got sea roome, they cut their maine sailes; whereby they
sufficiently declared that they meant no longer to fight but to flie. For
which cause the L. Admirall of England dispatched the L. Henrie Seymer with
his squadron of small ships vnto the coast of Flanders where, with the
helpe of the Dutch ships, he might stop the prince of Parma his passage, if
perhaps he should attempt to issue forth with his army. And he himselfe in
the meane space pursued the Spanish fleet vntil the second of August,
because he thought they had set saile for Scotland. And albeit he followed
them very neere, yet did he not assault them any more, for want of powder
and bullets. But vpon the fourth of August, the winde arising, when as the
Spaniards had spread all their sailes, betaking themselues wholly to
flight, and leauing Scotland on the left hand, trended toward Norway,
(whereby they sufficiently declared that their whole intent was to saue
themselnes by flight, attempting for that purpose, with their battered and
crazed ships, the most dangerous nauigation of the Northren seas) the
English seeing that they were now proceeded vnto the latitude of 57
degrees, and being vnwilling to participate that danger whereinto the
Spaniards plunged themselues, and because they wanted things necessary, and
especially powder and shot, returned backe for England; leauing behinde
them certaine pinasses onely, which they enioyned to follow the Spaniards
aloofe, and to obserue their course. [Sidenote: The English returne home
from the pursute of the Spaniards the 4 of August.] And so it came to passe
that the fourth of August with great danger and industry, the English
arriued at Harwich: for they had bene tossed vp and downe with a mighty
tempest for the space of two or three dayes together, which it is likely
did great hurt vnto the Spanish fleet, being (as I sayd before) so maimed
and battered. The English now going on shore, prouided themselues
foorthwith of victuals, gunnepowder, and other things expedient, that they
might be ready at all assayes to entertaine the Spanish fleet, if it
chanced any more to returne. But being afterward more certainely informed
of the Spaniards course, they thought it best to leaue them vnto those
boisterous and vncouth Northren seas, and not there to hunt after them.

[Sidenote: The Spaniards consult to saile round about Scotland and Ireland,
and so to returne home.] The Spaniards seeing now that they wanted foure or
fiue thousand of their people and hauing diuers maimed and sicke persons,
and likewise hauing lost 10 or 12 of their principall ships, they consulted
among themselues, what they were best to doe, being now escaped out of the
hands of the English, because their victuals failed them in like sort, that
they began also to want cables, cordage, ankers, masts, sailes, and other
naual furniture, and vtterly despaired of the Duke of Parma his assistance
(who verily hoping and vndoubtedly expecting the returne of the Spanish
Fleet, was continually occupied about his great preparation, commanding
abundance of ankers to be made, and other necessary furniture for a Nauy to
be prouided) they thought it good at length, so soone as the winde should
serue them, to fetch a compasse about Scotland and Ireland, and so to
returne for Spaine.

For they well vnderstood, that commandement was giuen thorowout all
Scotland, that they should not haue any succour or assistance there.
Neither yet could they in Norway supply their wants. Wherefore, hauing
taken certaine Scotish and other fisherboats, they brought the men on boord
their ships, to the end they might be their guides and Pilots. Fearing also
least their fresh water should faile them, they cast all their horses and
mules ouerboord: and so touching no where vpon the coast of Scotland, but
being carried with a fresh gale betweene the Orcades and Faar-Isles, they
proceeded farre North, euen vnto 61 degrees of latitude, being distant from
any land at the least 40. leagues. Heere the Duke of Medina generall of the
Fleet commanded all his followers to shape their course for Biscay: and he
himselfe with twenty or fiue and twenty of his ships which were best
prouided of fresh water and other necessaries, holding on his course ouer
the maine Ocean, returned safely home. The residue of his ships being about
forty in number, and committed vnto his Vice-admirall, fell neerer with the
coast of Ireland, intending their course for Cape Clare, because they hoped
there to get fresh water, and to refresh themseiues on land. [Sidenote: The
shippe-wracke of the Spaniardes vpon the Irish coast.] But after they were
driuen with many contrary windes, at length, vpon the second of September,
they were cast by a tempest arising from the Southwest vpon diuers parts of
Ireland, where many of their ships perished. And amongst others, the shippe
of Michael de Oquendo, which was one of the great Galliasses: and two great
ships of Venice also, namely, la Raita and Belahzara, with other 36 or 38
ships more, which perished in sundry tempests, together with most of the
persons contained in them.

Likewise some of the Spanish ships were the second time carried with a
strong West winde into the channell of England, whereof some were taken by
the English vpon their coast, and others by the men of Rochel vpon the
coast of France.

Moreouer, there arriued at Neuhauen, in Normandy, being by tempest inforced
so to doe, one of the foure great Galliasses, where they found the ships
with the Spanish women which followed the Fleet at their setting forth.
[Sidenote: Of 134 ships of the Spanish fleet, there returned home but 53.]
Two ships also, were cast away vpon the coast of Norway, one of them being
of a great burthen; howbeit all the persons in the sayd great ship were
saued: insomuch that of 134 ships, which set saile out of Portugall, there
returned home 53 onely small and great: namely of the foure galliasses but
one, and but one of the foure gallies. Of the 91 great galleons and hulks
there were missing 58. and 33 returned: of the pataches and zabraes 17 were
missing, and 18 returned home. In briefe, there were missing 81 ships, in
which number were galliasses, gallies, galeons, and other vessels, both
great and small. And amongst the 53 ships remaining, those also are
reckoned which returned home before they came into the English chanell. Two
galeons of those which were returned, were by misfortune burnt as they rode
in the hauen; and such like mishaps did many others vndergo. Of 30000
persons which went in this expedition, there perished (according to the
number and proportion of the ships) the greater and better part; and many
of them which came home, by reason of the toiles and inconueniences which
they sustained in this voyage, died not long after their arriuall. The Duke
of Medina immediatly vpon his returne was deposed from his authority,
commanded to his priuate house, and forbidden to repaire vnto the Court;
where he could hardly satisfie or yeeld a reason vnto his malicious enemies
and backbiters. Many honourable personages and men of great renowne
deceased soone after their returne; as namely Iohn Martines de Ricalde,
with diuers others. A great part also of the Spanish Nobility and Gentry
employed in this expedition perished either by fight, diseases, or drowning
before their arriuall; and among the rest Thomas Perenot of Granduell a
Dutchman, being earle of Cantebroi, and sonne vnto Cardinall Granduell his
brother.

Vpon the coast of Zeland Don Diego de Pimentell, brother vnto the Marques
de Tamnares, and kinseman vnto the earle of Beneuentum and Calua, and
Colonell ouer 32 bands with many other in the same ship was taken and
detained as prisoner in Zeland.

Into England (as we sayd before) Don Pedro de Valdez, a man of singular
experience, and greatly honoured in his countrey, was led captiue, being
accompanied with Don Vasquez de Silua, Don Alonzo de Sayas, and others.

Likewise vpon the Scottish Westerne Isles of Lewis, and Ila, and about Cape
Cantyre vpon the maine land, there were cast away certaine Spanish shippes,
out of which were saued diuers Captaines and Gentlemen, and almost foure
hundred souldiers, who for the most part, after their shipwracke, were
brought vnto Edenborough in Scotland, and being miserably needy and naked,
were there clothed at the liberality of the King and the Marchants, and
afterward were secretly shipped for Spaine; but the Scottish fleet wherein
they passed touching at Yarmouth on the coast of Norfolke, were there
stayed for a time vntill the Councels pleasure was knowen; who in regard of
their manifolde miseries, though they were enemies, wincked at their
passage.

Vpon the Irish coast many of their Noblemen and Gentlemen were drowned; and
diuers slaine by the barbarous and wilde Irish. Howbeit there was brought
prisoner out of Ireland, Don Alonzo de Luçon, Colonell of two and thirty
bandes, commonly called a terza of Naples; together with Rodorigo de Lasso,
and two others of the family of Cordoua, who were committed vnto the
custodie of Sir Horatio Palauicini, that Monsieur de Teligny the sonne of
Monsieur de Noüe (who being taken in fight neere Antwerpe, was detained
prisoner in the Castle of Turney) might be ransomed for them by way of
exchange. To conclude, there was no famous nor woorthy family in all
Spaine, which in this expedition lost not a sonne, a brother, or a
kinseman.

[Sidenote: New coines stamped for the memory of the Spaniards ouerthrow.]
For the perpetuall memorie of this matter, the Zelanders caused newe coine
of Siluer and brasse to be stamped: which on the one side contained the
armes of Zeland, with this inscription: GLORY TO GOD ONELY: and on the
other side, the pictures of certeine great ships, with these words: THE
SPANISH FLEET: and in the circumference about the ships: IT CAME, WENT, AND
WAS. Anno 1588. That is to say, the Spanish fleet came, went, and was
vanquished this yere; for which, glory be giuen to God onely.

Likewise they coined another kinde of money; vpon the one side whereof was
represented a ship fleeing and a ship sincking: on the other side foure men
making prayers and giuing thanks vnto God vpon their knees; with this
sentence: Man purposeth; God disposeth. 1588. Also, for the lasting memory
of the same matter, they haue stamped in Holland diuers such like coines,
according to the custome of the ancient Romans.

[Sidenote: The people of England and of the vnited prouinces, pray, fast,
and giue thanks vnto God.] While this woonderfull and puissant Nauie was
sayling along the English coastes, and all men did now plainely see and
heare that which before they would not be perswaded of, all people
thorowout England prostrated themselues with humble prayers and
supplications vnto God: but especially the outlandish Churches (who had
greatest cause to feare, and against whom by name, the Spaniards had
threatened most grievous torments) enioyned to their people continuall
fastings and supplications, that they might turne away Gods wrath and fury
now imminent vpon them for their sinnes: knowing right well, that prayer
was the onely refuge against all enemies, calamities, and necessities, and
that it was the onely solace and reliefe for mankinde, being visited with
affliction and misery. Likewise such solemne dayes of supplication were
obserued thorowout the vnited Prouinces.

Also a while after the Spanish Fleet was departed, there was in England, by
the commandement of her Maiestie, and in the vnited Prouinces, by the
direction of the States, a solemne festiuall day publikely appointed,
wherein all persons were enioyned to resort vnto the Church, and there to
render thanks and praises vnto God: and the Preachers were commanded to
exhort the people thereunto. The foresayd solemnity was obserued vpon the
29 of Nouember; which day was wholly spent in fasting, prayer, and giuing
of thanks.

Likewise, the Queenes Maiestie herselfe, imitating the ancient Romans, rode
into London in triumph, in regard of her owne and her subjects glorious
deliuerance. For being attended vpon very solemnely by all the principall
estates and officers of her Realme, she was carried thorow her sayd City of
London in a tryumphant chariot, and in robes of triumph, from her Palace
vnto the Cathedrall Church of Saint Paul, out of the which the ensignes and
colours of the vanquished Spaniards hung displayed. And all the Citizens of
London in their Liueries stood on either side the street, by their seuerall
Companies, with their ensignes and banners: and the streets were hanged on
both sides with Blew cloth, which, together with the foresayd banners,
yeelded a very stately and gallant prospect. Her Maiestie being entered
into the Church, together with her Clergie and Nobles gaue thanks vnto God,
and caused a publike Sermon to be preached before her at Pauls crosse;
wherein none other argument was handled, but that praise, honour, and glory
might be rendered vnto God, and that Gods name might be extolled by
thanksgiuing. And with her owne princely voice she most Christianly
exhorted the people to doe the same: whereupon the people with a loud
acclamation wished her a most long and happy life, to the confusion of her
foes.

Thus the magnificent, huge, and mighty fleet of the Spaniards (which
themselues termed in all places inuincible) such as sayled not vpon the
Ocean see many hundreth yeeres before, in the yeere 1588 vanished into
smoake; to the great confusion and discouragement of the authors thereof.
In regard of which her Maiesties happy successe all her neighbours and
friends congratulated with her, and many verses were penned to the honour
of her Maiesty by learned men, whereof some which came to our hands we will
here annexe.

       *       *       *       *       *

AD SERENISSIMAM ELIZABETHAM ANGLIÆ REGINAM.

THEODOR. BEZA.

Strauerat innumeris Hispanus nauibus æquor,
  Regnis iuncturus sceptra Britanna suis.
Tanti huius, rogitas, quæ motus causa? superbos
  Impulit Ambitio, vexit Auaritia.
Quàm bene te ambitio mersit vanissima ventus?
  Et tumidos tumidæ vos superastis aquæ
Quàm bene totius raptores orbis auaros,
  Hausit inexhausti iusta vorago maris!
At tu, cui venti, cui totum militat æquor,
  Regina, ô mundi totius vna, decus,
Sic regnare Deo perge, ambitione remota,
  Prodiga sic opibus perge iuuare pios,
Vt te Angli longum, longum Anglis ipsa fruaris,
  Quàm dilecta bonis, tam metuenda malis.


The same in English.

The Spanish Fleet did flote in narrow Seas,
And bend her ships against the English shore,
With so great rage as nothing could appease,
And with such strength as neuer seene before:
  And all to ioyne the kingdome of that land
  Vnto the kingdomes that he had in hand.

Now if you aske what set this king on fire,
To practise warre when he of peace did treat,
It was his Pride, and neuer quencht desire,
To spoile that Islands wealth, by peace made great:
  His Pride which farre aboue the heauens did swell
  And his desire as vnsuffic'd as hell.

But well haue windes his proud blasts ouerblowen,
And swelling waues alayd his swelling heart,
Well hath the Sea with greedie gulfs vnknowen,
Deuoured the deuourer to his smart:
  And made his ships a pray vnto the sand,
  That meant to pray vpon anothers land.

And now, O Queene, aboue all others blest,
For whom both windes and waues are prest to fight,
So rule your owne, so succour friends opprest,
(As farre from pride, so ready to do right)
  That England you, you England long enioy,
  No lesse your friends delight, then foes annoy.

       *       *       *       *       *

A briefe and true report of the Honorable voyage vnto Cadiz, 1596. of the
  ouerthrow of the kings Fleet, and of the winning, sacking, and burning of
  the Citie, with all other accidents of moment, thereunto appertaining.

After that the two most Noble and Renowmed Lords Generals: The L. Robert
Earle of Essex, and the L. Charles Howard L. High Admirall of England, were
come vnto Plymmouth (which was about the beginning of May last, 1596.)
being there accompanied with diuers other Noble Peeres, as the Earle of
Sussex, the L. Thomas Howard, the L. Harbert, the L. Warden Sir Walter
Raleigh: the L. Marshall Sir Francis Vere: the L. Burk, Don Christopher
young Prince of Portingall, young Count Lodouick of Nassaw, and the
Admirall of the Hollanders, Sir Iohn Vanderfoord: besides many other most
worthy Knights and Gentlemen of great woorth attending vpon this most
honorable Action: It pleased them, there to make their abode for the time
of that moneth, aswell for the new furnishing and reuictualing of her
Maiesties Royall Nauie: as also for the expecting of some other ships,
which were to come from diuers places of the Realme, and were as yet
wanting: making that place as it should seeme the Rendezuous for all the
whole Fleete, there to complete the full number of al such companies both
for sea and land: as was in their noble and deepe wisedomes thought meete
and agreed vpon.

All the time of this their abode there, there was a most zealous and
diligent care had for the holy seruice of God dayly and reuerently to be
frequented: and also for other good and ciuill orders of militarie
discipline to be obserued, to the exceeding great comfort and reioycing of
all the hearts of the godly and well disposed.

And for that it might the better appeare, that there was small hope of
pardon to be expected of the offenders, if they did at any time neglect
their duties, about due obseruation of matters of importance: Their orders,
lawes, and decrees being once published: about the 8. or 9. of the same
moneth, there were two offenders executed a little without the towne, in a
very fayre pleasant greene, called the Ho: the one for beginning of a
muteny in his company, the other for running away from his Colours.

And about the same time in the Dutch Regiment, an other for murthering of
one of his companions, about a quarrell betweene themselues, rising as it
was supposed, vpon their drinke, was by order of Martiall law, presently
tyed to the partie so murthered, and foorthwith both of them so cast into
the sea.

Moreouer, about the 28. of the same moneth, a certaine Lieutenant (whose
name I will forbeare) was by sound of Drumme publikely in all the streetes
disgraced, or rather after a sort disgraded, and cashierd for bearing any
farther Office at that time, for the taking of money by way of corruption,
of certaine prest souldiers in the Countrey, and for placing of others in
their roomes, more vnfit for seruice, and of lesse sufficiency and
abilitie. This seuere executing of iustice at the very first did breed such
a deepe terror in the hearts of the whole armie, that it seemed to cut off
all occasion of the like disorder for euer afterwards to be attempted.

And here before their departure from Plymmouth, it pleased their Lordships
to publish in print, and make knowen to all the world, especially to such
as whom it concerned, and that both in the Latine, French, Dutch, English
and Spanish tongue, what were the true, iust and vrgent causes, that at
this time prouoked her Maiestie, to vndertake the preparing and setting
forth of this so great a Nauie, annexing thereunto a full declaration, what
was good will and pleasure should be done and performed of all them that
ment not to incurre their owne priuate present daungers, or else were
willing to auoyde her Maiesties future indignation and displeasure.

Likewise now, at the same instant, their owne most prouident and godly
decrees, which they had deuised for the honest cariage of euery particular
person in their degrees and vocation, were made knowen to all men, and
published in sundry writings, with diuers great punishments, set downe and
appointed for the wilfull offenders and brekers of the same.

Thus then, all things being in very good order and well appointed, the most
holy name of our Omnipotent God being most religiously and deuoutly called
vpon, and his blessed and sacred Communion being diuers times most
reuerently and publikely celebrated: These two most noble personages, with
all their honorable Associats, and most famous worthy Knights, Gentlemen,
Captaines, Leaders, and very willing and expert Souldiers, and Mariners,
being furnished with 150. good sayle of shippe or thereabout: In the name
of the most High and euerliuing God, and with all true and faithful
obedience, to her sacred Maiesty, to the infinite good and tranquillitie of
our Countrey, and to the perpetuall glory, and triumphant renowne of the
eternall memory of their honorable names to all posterity, the first day of
Iune embarked themselues, weighed Ancre, and hoysed vp sayle, and put to
sea onward their iourney from the Sownds of Plymmouth.

The winde, at the first setting foorth, seemed very fauourable: but yet in
the euening growing very scant, and all that night falling more and more
against vs, and we hailing sayled no further then to a certaine place
called Dodman Head: we were constrained the next day, to make our returne
to the road of Plymmonth againe, and there in the Sownds to lie at ancre
for that night.

About this time, and in this very place, by good fortune there came to my
handes a prayer in English, touching this present Action, and made by her
Maiestie, as it was voyced: The prayer seemed to me to be most excellent,
aswell for the matter as also for the manner, and therefore for certaine
diuers good motiues which then presently came to my minde, and whereof
hereafter in his more conuenient time and place, I will make farther
mention, I presumed at that very instant to translate it into Latine.

The Prayer is thus.

Most Omnipotent maker and guide of all our worlds masse, that onely
searchest and fadomest the bottome of all our hearts conceits, and in them
seest the true originals of all our actions intended: thou that by thy
foresight doest truely discerne how no malice of Reuenge, nor quittance of
iniury, nor desire of bloodshed, nor greedinesse of lucre hath bred the
resolution of our now set out Army, but a heedfull care, and wary watch,
that no neglect of foes, nor ouer-suretie of harme might breed either
daunger to vs, or glory to them: these being the grounds wherewith thou
doest enspire the mind, we humbly beseech thee with bended knees, prosper
the worke, and with best forewindes guide the iourney, speed the victory,
and make the returne the aduancement of thy glory, the tryumph of their
fame, and surety to the Realme, with the least losse of the English blood.
To these deuout petitions Lord giue thou thy blessed grant.

My homely translation, is thus.

Svmmè præpotens Deus, immensæ huius totius nostri mundi molis fabricator et
Rector, qui solus perscrutaris intimos cordis nostri sensus, et ad fundum
vsque nostrarum cogitationem explorando penetras, ac in eis, quid verè, et
ex ammo cogitemus, et quæ sint actionum nostrarum rationes, ac fundamenta,
cognoscis: Tu, qui ea, quæ in te est, ab omni æternitate præscientia,
vides, quòd nec aliqua viciscendi malitiosa cupiditas, nec iniuriarum
referendarum desiderium, nec sanguinis effundendi sitis, nec alicuius
lucri, quæstusue auiditas ad istam classem præparandam, et emittendam nos
commouerit: sed potiùs, quòd prouida quædam cura, solérsque vigilantia huc
nos impulerit: ne vel inimicorum nostrorum neglectus, vel status nostri
firmitaris nimium secura cogitatio, aut illis gloriam et honorem, aut nobis
damnum et periculum pariat: Cum, inquam, hæc sint nostri, quicquid
attentatur, negotii fundamenta: cumque tu hunc nobis animum, mentémque
inieceris, vt istud aggrederemur: curuatis genibus a te humillimè petimus,
vt velis hoc nostrum incoeptum secundissimè fortunare, totum iter
prosperrimis flatibus dirigere, celerem et expeditiam victoriam nobis
concedere, reditúmque talem nostris militibus elargiri, qualis et nomini
tuo incrementum gloriæ, et illis famæ, laudisque triumphum, et Regno nostro
firmam tranquillitatem possit apportare: idque cum minimo Anglorum
sanguinis dispendio. His nostris religiosis petitionibus concede, Domine,
sacrosanctum et annuentem voluntatem tuam.

After that we had anchored at Plymmouth that night, as I haue said, the
third of Iune very early in the morning, hauing a reasonable fresh gale of
winde, we set sayle, and kept our course againe, and the ninth of the same
moneth comming something neere to the North cape, in a maner in the same
altitude, or not much differing, which was about xliii. degrees, and
something more, yet bearing so, as it was impossible to bee descried from
the land: There it pleased the Lords to call a select Councell, which was
alwayes done by hanging out of a flagge of the armes of England, and
shooting off of a great warning peece. On this select or priuie Councell
were no moe than these: The two Lords Generall, the Lord Thomas Howard, the
Lorde Warden Sir Walter Raleigh, the Lord Martiall Sir Francis Vere, Sir
George Cary master of the Ordinance, Sir Coniers Clifford, and Sir Anthony
Ashley, Clarke of the sayde Councell. And when it pleased the Lords
Generall to call a common Counsell (as often times they did vpon weightie
matters best knowen to their honours) then they would cause an other kinde
of flagge to be hanged put, which was the Redcrosse of S. George, and was
verie easie to be discerned from the other that appertained onely to the
select Counsell, and so often as this flagge of Saint George was hanged
out, then came all the Masters and Captaines of all the ships, whose
opinions were to be demaunded, in such matters as appertayned vnto this
sayd select Counsell: It was presently concluded, that our course in
sayling should foorthwith be altered, and that we should beare more into
the West, for some purposes to them best knowen.

At that very instant many letters of instructions were addressed and sent
to euery particular Master and Captaine of the Ships: What the contentes of
those letters of instructions were it was not as yet knowne vnto any,
neither was it held meet to be enquired or knowen of any of vs. But vnder
the titles and superscriptions of euery mans particuler letter these wordes
were endorsed. Open not these letters on pain of your liues, vnles we
chance to be scattered by tempest, and in that case open them, and execute
the contents thereof: but if by mishap you fall into your enemies hand,
then in any case cast them into the sea, sealed as they are. It should
seeme that these letters did conteine in them the principall place and
meaning of this entended action, which was hitherto by their deepe
foresights kept so secret, as no man to my knowledge either did, or coulde
so much as suspect it, more then themselues, who had the onely managing
thereof. A conceite in my iudgement of greatest moment in the world, to
effect any matter of importance. I meane, to entertaine those two vertues,
Fidem, et Taciturnitatem: so much commended by the old writers. And if
there was euer any great designement, in this our age, and memorie,
discreetly, faithfully, and closely caried, I assure my selfe it was this,
and though it were but in respect to that poynt onely: yet for such
faithfull secrecie, it deserueth immortall praise.

All this while, our ships, God be thanked, kept in a most excellent good
order, being diuided into fiue squadrons: that is to say, The Earle of
Essex, the Lord Admirall, the Lord Thomas Howard, the Lord Warden Sir
Walter Raleigh, and the Admirall of the Hollanders. All which squadrons,
albeit they did euery day separate themselues of purpose, by the distance
of certaine leagues, as well to looke out for such shippes as were happily
vnder sayle, as also for the better procuring of sea-roome: yet alwayes
commonly eyther that day, or the next day, towarde euening, they came all
together, with friendly salutations and gratulations one to an other: which
they terme by the name of Hayling: a ceremonie done solemnly, and in very
good order, with sound of Trumpets and noyse of cheerefull voyces: and in
such sort performed as was no small encouragement one to the other, beside
a true report of all such accidents, as had happened in their squadrons.

Hitherto, as I sayde, our iourney was most prosperous, and all our shippes
in very good plight, more then that the Mary Rose, by some mischance,
either sprang or spent her fore-yarde, and two dayes after Sir Robert
Crosse had in a maner the like mischance.

Nowe being thus betweene the North cape, and cape S. Vincent, and yet
keeping, such a course a loofe, that by no meanes, those from the shoare
might be able to descrie vs: The tenth of Iune, a French Barke, and a
Fleming comming from the coast of Barbarie were brought in by some of our
companie: but they were both of them very honourably and well vsed by the
Lords Generall: and so after a fewe dayes tarrying, were peaceably sent
away, after that they had conferred with them about such matters, as was
thought good in their honorable wisedomes.

The twelfth of the same moneth, Sir Richard Leuison Knight, assisted with
Sir Christopher Blunt, fought with three Hamburgers, and in that fight
slewe two of them, and hurt eleuen, and in the end brought them all three
in: and this was the very first hansell and maydenhead (as it were) of any
matter of importance, or exployt worthy obseruation that was done in the
way outward of this honorable voyage, and was so well perfourmed of those
most worthy Gentlemen, as euery man highly commended them for their great
valure, and discretion, and no lesse reioyced at this their fortunate
succcsse.

The next day after, Sir Richard Weston meeting with a Flemming, who refused
to vale his foretoppe, with the like good courage and resolution, attempted
to bring him in. The fight continued very hot betweene them, for a good
space: in the end the Swan, wherein the sayd Sir Richard was, had her
forebeake strooken off: and having spent before in fight the one side of
her tire of Ordinance, while she prepared to cast about, and to bestow on
him the other side, in the meane time the Fleming taking this opportunity,
did get almost halfe a league from him: and so for that time made his
escape. And yet the next day after, the sayd Flemming being in a maner got
to the very mouth of the Riuer vp to Lisbone, was taken, and brought in by
M. Dorrell, being Captaine of the Iohn and Francis of London. Thus by
diuiding their squadrons, and spreading the whole sea ouer a mighty way,
there could not so much as the least pinke passe but she was espied and
brought in.

The 13. 14. and 15. dayes, certaine littte stragling Carauels were taken by
certaine of the Fleete, and in one of them a young beggarly Fryer vtterly
vnlearned, with a great packet of letters for Lisbon: the poore wretches
were maruellously well vsed by the Lords Generall, and that Carauel, and
the like still as they were taken were commaunded to giue their attendance,
and their Honours did vnderstand what they might of these poore men, of the
estate of Spaine for that present.

About this time and in this place it was, that first in all my life time I
did see the flying fishes, who when they are hardly pinched and chased by
the Bonitoes and other great fishes, then to auoyde the daunger, they
presently mount vp, and forsake the water, and betake themselues to the
benefite of their winges and make their flight, which commonly is not aboue
fiue or sixe score, or there about, and then they are constrayned to fall
downe into the water againe, and it is the Mariners opinion that they can
fly no longer then their wings be wet. The fish it selfe is about the
bignesse of a Mackrell or a great white Hearing, and much of that colour
and making, with two large wings shaped of nature very cunningly, and with
great delight to behold, in all the world much like to our Gentlewomens
dutch Fans, that, are made either of paper, parchment, or silke, or other
stuffe, which will with certaine pleights easily runne and fold themselues
together. One of these flying fishes was presented to my L. Admirall by a
fisher man, and newly taken in his L. returne from Cadiz, and then I [had]
good leisure and opportunitie to view it. ['had' missing in source
text--KTH]

The 18. day early in the morning wee tooke an Irish man, and he came
directly from Cadiz, hauing beene there but the day before at twelue of the
clocke at high noone. This man being examined, told truely that there was
now great store of shipping at Cadiz, and with them xviii. or xix. gallies
in a readinesse, and that among those ships there were diuers of the kings
best: and namely, that the Philip of Spaine was amongst them, but what
their intent was, hee could not tell. This man was commanded also to giue
his attendance.

The 20. of Iune being Sunday, we came before Cadiz very early in the
morning, and in all this time as yet, the whole Nauy had not lost either by
sicknesse or by any other maner of wayes sixe men to my knowledge: as for
the Dutch company, I am not able precisely to say what happened there, for
that they were no part of our charge to be looked vnto, but were a regiment
entire of themselues, and by themselues to be prouided for, either for
their diet, or for the preservation of their healths by phisicke.

Thus then I say, being all in good plight and strong, the 20. of Iune wee
came to Cadiz, and there very earely in the morning presented our selues
before the Towne, ryding about a league or something lesse, from it. The
sea at that instant went maruelous high, and the winde was exceeding large.
Notwithstanding, a Councell being called, our Lords Generall foorthwith
attempted with all expedition to land some certaine companies of their men
at the West side of the Towne, by certaine long boats, light horsemen,
pynnesses, and barges made for the purpose, but could not compasse it, and
in the attempting thereof; they chanced to sinke one of their Barges, with
some foure score good souldiers well appointed in her, and yet by good hap
and great care the men were all saued excepting viii. And therefore they
were constrayned to put off their landing till an other more convenient
time.

That morning very timely, there, lighted a very faire doue vpon the maine
yard of the L. Admirals ship, and there she sate very quietly for the space
of 3. or 4. houres, being nothing dismayed all that while, euery man gazed
and looked much vpon her, and spake their minds and opinions, yet all
concluding by no meanes to disquiet her: I for my part, tooke it for a very
good omen and boading, as in trueth (God be thanked) there fell out nothing
in the end to the contrary. And as at our very first comming to Cadiz this
chanced, so likewise on the very last day of our departing from the same
towne, another Doue presented her selfe in the selfe same order into the
same ship, and presently grew wonderfull tame and familiar to vs all, and
did so still keepe vs company, euen till our arriuall here in England.

We no sooner presented our selues, but presently a goodly sort of tall
Spanish ships came out of the mouth of the Bay of Cadiz, the Gallies
accompanying them in such good order, and so placed as all of them might
well succour each other, and therewithall kept themselues very close to
their towne, the castle, and the forts, for their better guard and defence,
abiding there still, and expecting our farther determination. All that day
passed, being very rough and boysterous, and litle or nothing could be
done, more then that about the euening there passed some friendly and kinde
salutations sent one from the other in warlike maner, by discharging
certain great peeces, but to my knowledge no hurt done at all, or else very
litle.

A carefull and diligent watch was had all that night thoroughout the whole
armie, and on monday morning being the 21. day, the winde and weather being
become moderate and fauourable, betweene fiue and sixe of the clocke in the
morning, our ships in the name of almightie God, and in defence of the
honour of England, without any farther delay, with all speed, courage, and
alacritie, did set vpon the Spanish ships, being then vnder sayle, and
making out of the mouth of the Bay of Cadiz, vp toward Puente de Suaço on
Grenada side, being in number lix. tall ships, with xix. or xx. Gallies
attending vpon them, sorted in such good order, and reasonable distance as
they might still annoy vs, and alwayes relieue themselues interchangeably:
hauing likewise the Castle, Forts, and Towne, continually to assist them
and theirs, and alwayes readie to play vpon vs and ours.

In most mens opinions it seemed that the enemy had a wonderful aduantage of
vs, all circumstances being well weighed, but especially the straightnesse
of the place, and the naturall forme and situation of the Bay it selfe,
being rightly considered. For albeit the very Bay it selfe is very large
and exceeding beautifull, so that from Cadiz to Port S. Mary, is some vi.
or vii. English miles ouer or there abouts, yet be there many rockes,
shelues, sands and shallowes in it, so that the very chanell and place for
sea roome, is not aboue 2. or 3. miles, yea and in some places not so much,
for the ships of any great burthen, to make way in, but that they must
either be set on ground or else constrained to run fowle one on another.
All this notwithstanding, with great and inuincible courage, the Lords
generall presently set vpon them, and sorting out some such conuenient
ships, as to their honorable wisedomes seemed fittest for that times
seruice, they were driuen to take some other course then before had beene
by them entended. Wherefore vpon a graue consultation had by a select
Counsell, what great dangers might ensue vpon so mightie a disaduantage as
appeared in all probability, if it were not by good and sound iudgement
preuented, and therewithall in their singular wisedomes foreseeing that
some great stratageme might be practised by the enemy, either by
fire-worke, or some other subtill politike deuise, for the hazarding of her
Maiesties ships of honor in so narrow a place, thus with al expedition they
concluded that the Viceadmirall, the L. Thomas Howard, that most noble L.
Howard (whose exceeding great magnanimity, courage, and wisedome, ioyned
with such an honorable kind of sweet courtesie, bountie, and liberalitie,
as is not able by me and my weakenes to be expressed, hath wonne him all
the faithfull louing hearts of as many as euer haue had any maner of
dealing with him) This L. Thomas, I say, in the Non Pareille for that time,
and the Reare Admirall Sir Walter Raleigh (a man of maruellous worth and
regard, for many his exceeding singular great vertues, right fortitude and
great resolutenes in all matters of importance) in the Warspight associated
with diuers most famous worthy knights, namely, Sir Francis Vere the L.
Martiall in the Rainbow, Sir George Cary M. of the Ordinance, in the Mary
rose, Sir Robert Southwell in the Lyon, gentlemen for all laudable good
vertues, and for perfect courage and discretion in all military actions, of
as great praise and good desert as any gentlemen of their degree whosoeuer,
hauing with them some of the shippes of London and some of the Dutch
squadron of reasonable burthen, should leade the dance, and giue the onset,
and that the two most noble Lords generall with some others of their
companies, should in their conuenient time and order, second the maine
battell. The fight being begunne and growen very hot, the L. Generall the
Earle of Essex, (whose infinite princely vertues with triumphant fame
deserue to be immortalized) being on Port S. Mary side, vpon a sudden and
vnlooked for of others, thrust himselfe among the formost into the maine
battell. The other most honorable L. Generall (whose singular vertues in
all respects are of such an excellencie and perfection as neither can my
praise in any part increase them, nor any mans enuy any whit blemish or
diminish them) vnderstanding, the most noble Earle to be in fight among
them, and perceiuing by the M. of his ship, the Arke Royall, that lacke of
water, it was not possible, that he might put any neerer, without farther
delay, called presently for his Pynnesse, and in the same Pynnesse put
himselfe, and his honorable son L. William Howard that now is, aboord the
Honor de la mer, and there remained in the fight till the battell was
ended. The fight was very terrible, and most hideous to the beholder by the
continuall discharging of those roaring thundering great peeces, on all
sides, and so continued doubtful till about one or two of the clocke in the
afternoone: about which time the Philip, whom in very truth, they had all
most fancie vnto, began to yeeld and giue ouer, her men that remained aliue
shifting for themselues as they were able, and swimming, and running a
shoare with all the hast that they could possibly, and therewithall, at the
very same instant themselues fired their ship, and so left her, and
presently thereupon a great Argosie, with an other mighty great ship, fired
themselues in the like maner. Immediately hereupon, the residue of the
ships ran themselues on ground, as farre from vs as they could, and therby
purchased their owne safety, or rather breathing space for the time. Of
them all two faire ships only were boorded and taken by our men with most
part of their furniture in them, the one called S. Matthy, a ship by
estimation of some xii. hundred tunne, and the other S. Andrew, being a
shippe of not much lesser burthen. The Gallies, seeing this suddaine great
victorious ouerthrow, made all the hast they could toward the Bridge called
Puente de Suaço, and there shrowded themselues in such sort as our shippes
could not by any meanes possible come nigh them for lacke of water.

The Spanish ships in all were lix. and as is sayd, all tall ships and very
richly furnished and well appointed, whereof some of them were bound for
the Indies, and other freighted and furnished for Lisbon, as themselues
affirme; and had we not come that very time that we did, (which for my
part, I do not attribute so much vnto meere chance, as to some secret deepe
insight and foreknowledge of the two most worthy Lords generall, who no
doubt spared for no cost or labour for true intelligence) we had certainely
mist of them all.

Of what great wealth and riches these ships were, that I leaue to other
mens iudgement and report, but sure I am that themselues offered two
millions and a halfe of ducats for the redemption of the goods and riches
that were in them: which offer of theirs, albeit it was accepted of the
Lords Generall, and should haue beene receiued, yet we were defeated of it,
as hereafter shall be more at large declared.

What maner of fight this was, and with what courage performed, and with
what terror to the beholder continued, where so many thundering tearing
peeces were for so long a time discharged, I leaue it to the Reader to
thinke and imagine. Yet such was the great mercy and goodnes of our liuing
God, that in all this cruell terrible fight, in the end, there were not
either slaine or hurt by any maner of meanes (excepting one mischance that
happened, wherof I will by and by make mention) many aboue the number of
100. of our men: notwithstanding diuers of our shippes were many times shot
thorow and thorow: yea and some of them no lesse then two and twentie
times, as I was enformed by credible report of the Captaines and Masters
themselues. I knowe not of any other hurt done, sauing onely that Sir
Robert Southwell, who alwayes shewed himselfe a most valiant resolute
knight in all this action, making a litle too much haste with his Pinnesse
to boord the Philip, had there his said Pinnesse burnt with the Philip at
the same instant, and yet by good care and diligence his men were saued.

One other mischance (as I said) there happened, and it was thus: One of the
Flemings flieboats, who had, in all the conflict before, caried himselfe
very well and valiantly, about ten of the clocke while the fight continued
sharpest, chanced by great negligence and misfortune, to be fired and
blowen vp by his owne powder, who could not haue any fewer in him, then one
hundred fighting men by all supposall, and so in the very twinckling of an
eye, both shippe and men were all cast away, excepting vii. or viii. which
by very good fortune, and great care and diligence of some of the other
ships were saued.

Immediatly vpon this notable victory without any farther stay in all the
world, the Lord generall the Earle of Essex put to shore and landed about
3000. shot, and pikemen: of the which number the one halfe was presently
dispatched to the bridge Puente de Suaço, vnder the conduct of three most
famous worth; knights. Sir Christopher Blunt, Sir Coniers Clifford, and Sir
Thomas Gerard: with the other halfe, being about fifteene hundred, the most
noble Earle of Essex himselfe, being accompanied with diuers other
honorable Lords, namely the Earle of Sussex, the Lord Harbert, the Lord
Burt, Count Lodouick of Nassaw, the Lord Martiall Sir Francis Vere, with
many other worthy Knights, and men of great regard, who all in that dayes
seruice did most valiantly behaue themselues, with all expedition possible
marched on foote toward the towne of Cadiz, which was about three English
miles march. That time of the day was very hot and faint and the way was
all of dry deepe slyding sand in a maner, and beside that, very vneuen, and
by that meanes so tiresome and painefull as might be. The enemie hauing
reasonable companie both of horse and footemen, stoode in a readinesse some
good distance without the towne to welcome vs, and to encounter the Lorde
Generall. But the most famous Earle with his valiant Troupes, rather
running in deede in good order, then marching, hastened on with such
vnspeakeable courage and celeritie, as within one houres space and lesse,
the horsemen were all discomfited and put to flight, their leader being
strooken downe at the very first encounter, whereat the footemen being
wonderfully dismayed and astonished at the vnexspected manner of the
Englishmens kinde of such fierce and resolute fight retyred themselues with
all the speede possible that they could, to recouer themselues into the
Towne againe, which being done by them, with farre swifter legges then
manly courage, our men were enforcd to skale the walles: which thing in
very deede, although it was not without great danger and difficulty to be
perfourmed: Yet such was the inuincible resolution, and the wonderfull
dexterity of the English, that in one halfe houre or thereabout, the enemie
was repulsed, and the towne wall possessed, by the noble Earle himselfe,
being in all this action, either the uery first man or else in a maner
ioyned with the first.

The towne walles being then possessed, and the English Ensigne being there
displayed vpon them, with all speede possible they proceeded on to march
through the towne, making still their waie with sworde and shot as well as
they could, being still fought withall at euery turne.

Immediately vpon this most famous entrie, the noble Earle, (according to
their resolutions, as I take it, put downe before) was seconded by the
noble L. Admirall in person, who was accompanied, with the noble L. Thomas
Howard, the most worthy gentleman his sonne, now L. Howard, Sir Robert
Southwell, Sir Richard Leuison, and with diuers other gentlemen, his L.
followers of good account: his colours being aduanced by that valiant
resolute gentleman, (a man beautified with many excellent rare gifts, of
good learning and vnderstanding) S. Edward Hobby Knight. And thus he
likewise marching with al possible speede on foote, notwithstanding his L.
many yeres, the Intolerable heate, for the time, and the ouertiring tedious
deepe sands, with other many impediments: Yet in good time, ioyned himselfe
with the Earle and his companies, and gaue them the strongest, and best
assistance that he could.

Thus then the two Lords Generall with their companies being ioyned
together, and proceeding so farre as the market place, there they were
hotly encountered, where and at what time, that worthy famous knight Sir
Iohn Winkfield, being sore wounded before on the thigh, at the very entry
of the towne, and yet for all that no whit respecting himselfe being caried
away, with the care he had to encourage and direct his company, was with
the shot of a musket in the head, most vnfortunately slaine.

And thus before eight of the clocke that night were these two most noble
Lords General, Masters of the market place, the forts, and the whole Towne
and all, onely the Castle as yet holding out, and from time to time as they
could, still annoying them, with seuen battering pieces. By this time night
began to grow on, and a kind of peace or intermission was obtained by them
of the Castle: to whome the Lords Generall had signified: that vnlesse
before the next day in the morning they would absolutely render themselues,
they should looke for no mercy, but should euery one be put to the sword:
vpon which message they tooke deliberation that night: but in the morning
before breake of day, they hanged out their flag of truce, and so without
any further composition did yeeld themselues absolutely to their mercy, and
deliuered vp the Castle.

And yet notwithstanding all this, in the night time while they had this
respite to pause, and deliberate about the peacemaking, there were diuers
great and suddaine alarms giuen: which did breed some great outrages and
disorder in the towne. At euery which alarme, the two Lordes Generall
shewed themselues maruelous ready and forward, insomuch that at the very
first alarme, skant wel furnished with any more defence then their shirts,
hose, and dublets, and those too altogether in a maner vntied, they were
abroad in the streets themselues, to see the vttermost of it. But for that
it is not as yet very well knowen (or at the least not well knowen vnto me)
either wherfore, or by whom these alarmes were attempted: I am therefore to
intreat, that a bare report, that such a thing was done, may suffice.

These things being done, and this surrender being made, present
proclamation was published, that the fury now being past, all men should
surcease from all maner of blood and cruell dealing, and that there should
no kind of violence or hard vsage be offered to any, either man, woman or
child, vpon paine of death: And so permitting the spoyle of so much of the
towne as was by them thought meete, to the common souldiers for some
certaine dayes, they were continually in counsell about other graue
directions, best knowen to their honourable wisedomes.

This honourable and mercifull Edict I am sure was streightly and
religiously obserued of the English: But how well it was kept by the Dutch,
I will nether affirme, nor yet denie. For I perceiue betweene them and the
Spaniards, there is in implicable hartburning, and therefore as soone as
the Dutch squadron was espied in the fight, immediatly thereupon both they
of Siuil and S. Lucar and also some, of some other places, did not onely
arrest all such Dutch ships, as delt with them friendly by the way of
traffick and Marchandise, and so confiscated their goods, but also
imprisoned the Marchants and Owners of the same, and, as the report goeth,
did intreat many of them with extreame cruelty thereupon.

In the meane while the very next day being the two and twenty day of Iune,
all the Spanish shippes which were left on ground in the Bay of Cadiz,
where the great ouerthrowe had beene but the day before, were by the
Spaniards themselues there set on fire, and so from that time forward they
neuer left burning of them, till euery one of them, goods and all, as farre
as wee know were burnt and consumed. This their doing was much maruelled at
of vs, and so much the more, for that, as I sayd before, there had bene
made some offer for the redemption and sauing of the goods, and it was not
to them vnknowen that this their offer was not misliked, but in all
probabilitie should haue bene accepted. The common opinion was, that this
was done either by the appointment of the Duke de Medina Sidonia, or els by
expresse commandement from the higher powers.

Not long after the same time (three dayes as I remember) the gallies that
were runne on ground, did quitte themselues also out of that place, and by
the bridge of the Iland called Puente de Suaço, made their way round about
the same Iland, and so by putting themselues to the maine sea, escaped to a
towne called Rotta, not farre off, but something vp towards the Towne of
Saint Lucars, and there purchased their safety by that meanes.

Thus was this notable victorie, as well by sea as by land, both begunne and
in effect perfourmed, within the compasse, in a maner, of foureteene
houres: A thing in trueth so strange and admirable, as in my iudgement will
rather bee wondered at then beleeued of posteritie. And if euer any notable
exploit in any age was comparable to Cæsars Veni, Vidi, Vici, certainely in
my poore opinion it was this.

Here it is to be wished (and perchance of some too it is looked for) that
euery mans particular worthy acte in this dayes seruice, with the parties
names also, should be put downe, that thereby both they and their good
deserts might be registered to all posteritie: and for my part I would it
were so, and wish I were able to doe it. But for that I confesse it is a
matter that passeth my power, yea, and for that I thinke it also a thing
impossible to be precisely perfourmed by any other, I am to craue pardon
for that I rather leaue it out altogether, then presume to doe it maymedly:
and in this point I referre the Reader onely to the Mappe that is set
foorth of this iourney, where it is in some parte conueniently touched and
specified.

The Towne of it selfe was a very beautifull towne, and a large, as being
the chiefe See of the Bishop there, and hauing a goodly Cathedrall Church
in it, with a right goodly Abbey, a Nunnery, and an exceeding fine College
of the Jesuites, and was by naturall situation, as also by very good
fortification, very strong, and tenable enough in all mens opinions of the
better judgement. Their building was all of a kind of hard stone, euen from
the very foundation to the top, and euery house was in a manner a kinde of
a fort or Castle, altogether flat-roofed in the toppe, after the Turkish
manner, so that many men together, and that at ease, might walke thereon:
hauing vpon the house top, great heapes of weighty stoanes piled vp in such
good order, as they were ready to be throwen downe by euery woman most
easily vpon such as passed by, and the streetes for the most part so
exceeding narrow, (I thinke to auoide the intollerable great heat of the
Sunne) as but two men or three at the most together, can in any reasonable
sorte march thorough them, no streete being broader commonly then I suppose
Watling streete in London to be.

The towne is altogether without glasse, excepting the Churches, yet with
faire comely windowes, and with faire grates of iron to them, and haue very
large folding leaues of wainscot or the like. It hath very fewe Chimnies in
it, or almost none at all: it may be some one chimney in some one or other
of the lower out roomes of lest account, seruing for some necessary vses,
either to wash in, or the like, or els nowe and then perchance for the
dressing of a dish of meate, hauing, as it should seeme vnto me, alwayes a
greater care and respect how to keepe themselues from all kind of great
heat, then how to prouide for any store of great roste. It had in it by
report of them that should best know it, some foure thousand and moe, of
very good able fighting men, and sixe hundred horsemen at the least. No
question but that they were well furnished of all things appertaining
thereunto, especially so many good ships lying there, and being so well
stored with all manner of munition, shot, and powder, as they were.

Whether they had knowledge of our comming or no, I can say nothing to it:
Themselues giue it out that they vnderstood not of it, but onely by a
Carauel the Friday at euening before we came. But whether they knew it or
no, thus much I dare boldly affirme, that if the English had bene possessed
of that or the like Towne, and had bene but halfe so well prouided as they
were, they would haue defended it for one two moneths at the least, against
any power whatsoeuer in at Christendome. But surely GOD is a mighty GOD,
and hath a wonderfull secret stroke in all matters, especially of weight
and moment. Whether their hearts were killed at the mighty ouerthrow by
sea, or whether they were amased at the inuincible courage of the English,
which was more then ordinary, caring no more for either small shot or
great, then in a maner for so many hailestones, or whether the remorse of a
guilty conscience toward the English nation, for their dishonourable and
diuelish practices, against her Sacred Maiestie, and the Realme, (a matter
that easily begetteth a faint heart in a guilty minde) or what other thing
there was in it I know not, but be it spoken to their perpetuall shame and
infamie, there was neuer thing more resolutely perfourmed, of the
couragious English, nor more shamefully lost of the bragging Spaniard.

Of what wealth this towne should be, I am not able to resolue the asker:
for I confesse that for mine owne part, I had not so much good lucke, as to
be partaker so much as of one pennie, or penny worth. Howbeit my ill
fortune maketh that towne neuer a whit the poorer. But as it should appear
by the great pillage by the common souldiers, and some mariners too, and by
the goodly furnitures; that were defaced by the baser people, and thereby
vtterly lost and spoyled, as not woorth the carying away, and by the ouer
great plenty of Wine, Oyle, Almonds, Oliues, Raisins, Spices, and other
rich grocery wares, that by the intemperate disorder of some of the rasher
sort were knockt out, and lay trampled vnder feete, in euery common high
way, it should appeare that it was of some very mighty great wealth to the
first owners, though perchance, not of any such great commoditie to the
last subduers, for that I iudge that the better part was most ryotously and
intemperately spent and consumed. A disorder in mine opinion very much to
be lamented, and if it might be by any good meanes remedied, in my conceit,
it were a most honourable deuice.

The Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday following, the Lords Generall spent in
counsell, about the disposing of all matters, aswell touching the towne and
prisoners, as also concerning all other matters, thought meete of them in
their honourable wisedomes, and in all that meane while did shew such
honourable bounty and mercy, as is not able to be expressed. For not onely
the liues of euery one were spared, but also there was an especial care
had, that al the Religious, as wel men as women, should be well and
fauourably intreated, whom freely without any maner of ransome or other
molestation, they caused to be safely transported ouer to Port Saint Marie,
a towne in a maner as fayre as Cadiz: but at that time, as the case did
stand, certainly knowen to be of no wealth in the world, and it was some
sixe or seuen miles distant ouer against Cadiz, in a maner as Paules is
against Southwarke, on the other side of the Bay, in a part of Andaluzia,
subiect to the territory of the Duke de Medina Sidonio.

Moreouer, at the same instant they did appoint that worthy knight Sir Amias
Preston, and some others in some conuenient Barkes, to transport ouer to
the sayd Towne safely and in good order, a hundred or moe of the better
sort of ancient gentlewomen, and marchants wiues, who were suffered to put
vpon themselues, some of them two, yea, some three sutes of apparell, with
some conuenient quantitie of many Iewels, Chaines, and other ornaments
belonging to their estate and degree. Such was the heroicall liberality,
and exceeding great clemencie of those most honourable Lords Generall,
thereby, as it should seeme vnto mee, beating downe that false surmised
opinion, which hath bene hitherto commonly spread abroad, and setled among
the Spaniards: which is, That the English doe trouble them and their
countries, more for their golde, riches and pearle &c. then for any other
iust occasion. Whereas by these their honourable dealings it is manifest to
all the world, that it is onely in respect of a iust reuenge for the
manifolde iniuries, and most dishonourable practises that haue bene from
time to time attempted by them against vs and our nation, and also in the
defence of the true honour of England: which they haue sought, and daylie
doe seeke, by so many sinister and reprochfull deuices, so much as in them
lieth, to deface.

Vpon Saturday being the 26. Sir Iohn Winkfield knight was buried, in
honourable and warlike manner, so farre foorth us the circumstances of that
time and place could permit. At whose funerals the Nauie discharged a great
part of their Ordinance, in such order, as was thought meete and conuenient
by the Lords Generals commandement.

The twenty seuenth day being Sunday, in the Abbey the diuine seruice was
had, and a learned Sermon was made there by one Master Hopkins, the right
honourable Earle of Essex his Preacher, a man of good learning and sweete
vtterance, and euen there the same day, something before the sermon was
made, these worthie Gentlemen following were knighted by the Lords General.
And here I am to signifie by the way that two of these were knighted three
or foure dayes before, and some three or foure moe were knighted after that
time, vpon certaine occasions: but yet I holde it beste (and I trust
without offence) to recite their names in this place altogether.


The names of such noble men and gentlemen, as were knighted at Cadiz in
  Iune 1596 by the two most honourable Lordes Generall.

June 21. Sir Samuel Bagnol.        Sir Alexander Clifford.
22.      Sir Arthur Sauage.        Sir Maurice Barkley.
27.      The Earle of Sussex.      Sir Charles Blunt
         The Lord Harbert.         Sir George Gifford.
         The Lord Burk.            Sir Robert Crosse.
         Count Ludowick.           Sir Iames Escudamor.
         Sir William Howard.       Sir Vrias Leigh.
         Sir George D'Eureux.      Sir Iohn Leigh, alias Lee.
         Sir Henry Neuel.          Sir Richard Weston.
         Sir Edmund Rich.          Sir Richard Wainman.
         Sir Richard Leuen.        Sir Iames Wootton.
         Sir Peter Egomort.        Sir Richard Ruddal.
         Sir Anthonie Ashley.      Sir Robert Mansfield.
         Sir Henry Leonard.        Sir William Mounson.
         Sir Richard Leuison.      Sir Iohn Bowles.
         Sir Horatio Vere.         Sir Edward Bowes.
         Sir Arthur Throchmorton.  Sir Humfrey Druel.
         Sir Miles Corbet          Sir Amias Preston.
         Sir Edward Conway.        Sir Robert Remington.
         Sir Oliuer Lambert        Sir Iohn Buck.
         Sir Anthony Cooke.        Sir Iohn Morgan.
         Sir Iohn Townesend.       Sir Iohn Aldridg.
         Sir Christopher Heydon.   Sir Iohn Asshindon.
         Sir Francis Popham.       Sir Matthew Browne.
         Sir Philip Woodhouse.     Sir Iohn Acton.
         Sir Thomas Gates.         Sir Iohn Gylbert.
         Sir Gilly Mericke.        Sir William Haruie.
         Sir Thomas Smith.         Sir Iohn Gray.
         Sir William Pooley.       Don Christ. prince of Portingall.
         Sir Thomas Palmer.        Sir Iohn Vanderfoord,
         Sir Iohn Stafford.          Admirall of the Hollanders.
         Sir Robert Louel.         Sir Robert Duley. 8. August.

[_In the preceding List, the last name should undoubtedly be Sir Robert
Dudey._]

I am not curious in placing these gentlemen, but put them downe at a
venture. Only I haue obserued, as neere as I could, the iust day and time
when they were created. And I trust where the place of it selfe is so
worthy and equall, there the bare naming and placing of the parties, shal
brede no offence, or make a disparity. The two gentlemen that were last
knighted receiued their knighthood in the way of our returne from Cadiz:
the one of them vpon the sea, not farre from the Bay of the Groyne, at what
time our ships stood vpon their staies for a space while certaine Pinnasses
were sent to descrie what shipping was at the Groine: The other at
Plimmouth in the open streete, when the Lords Generall came from the
Sermon. The one a man of long seruice, and good desert among the Dutch: the
other of so many good parts of a worthy gentleman, as the like are seldome
seene to concurre in any.

I spake in the beginning of her Majesties praier, which I presumed (though
vnworthy) to translate into Latine: and nowe at this very time there was
some opportunity offered, for to make some vse of that translation. For
nowe being in Cadiz, attending vpon my most honourable good Lord, I talked
with certaine of the Religious men, such as I found learned, whereof indeed
there were some, though not very many. I talked also with the Bishop of
Cusco there, a graue aged comely man, and being of late chosen to that
Bishopricke, he was as then to have gone to the Indies had not we then
taken him prisoner, and so stayed his iourney for that time. With these men
euer as occasion did serue, I did seeke nowe and then to spende some
speech, and to entertaine time withall, I would breake with them of this
our victorie, and of the iniuries and bad dealings of their Prince and
Countrey offered to her Maiestie, whereby shee was prouoked, and in a
manner drawn to this action: though otherwise of her own most excellent
princely good nature, she was altogether giuen to peace, and quietnes. And
alwayes in some part of our conferences, I would shew them a copie of her
Maiesties praier in Latine, which I had alwayes of purpose ready about me;
whereby it might the better appeare vnto them, how vnwillingly, and vpon
how great and vrgent occasions her Maiesty was, as it were enforced to
vndertake this action: and therewithall I did vse now and then to bestow
vpon them a copy of the same in writing. They seemed in all outward shew to
allow of my speeches, and to praise her Maiesties good inclination; and
earnestly to wish that there might be a firme concord and peace againe.

It pleased the Lords general to deale exceeding fauourably with this said
Bishop of Cusco: for it was their good pleasure to giue him his free
passage without any ransome, and therewithal to let him to vnderstand, that
they came not to deale with Church-men, or vnarmed men, or with men of
peace, weaklings and children, neither was it any part of their meaning to
make such a voyage for gold, siluer, or any other their wealth and riches,
&c. But that, their only comming was to meet with their dishonorable
practises, and manifold iniuries, and to deale with men of warre and
valour, for the defence of the true honour of England: and to let them to
vnderstand, that whensoeuer they attempted any base-conceited and
dishonorable practise to their soueraigne Queene, their Mistresse, that it
should be reuenged to the vttermost, &c.

In this meane space, while the Lords general continued at Cadiz, there came
to them certain poore wretched Turks, to the number of 38, that had bin a
long time gally-slaues, and either at the very time of the fight by sea, or
els immediately thereupon, taking the opportunity, did then make their
escape, and did swim to land: yeelding themselues to the mercy of their
most honorable Lordships. It pleased them with all speed to apparel them,
and to furnish them with money, and all other necessaries, and to bestow on
them a barke, and a Pilot, to see them freely and safely conueied into
Barbary, willing them to let the countrey vnderstand what was done, and
what they had seene. Whereby I doubt not, but as her Maiesty is a most
admirable Prince already, ouer all Europe, all Africk, and Asia, and
throughout Christendome: so the whole worlde hereafter shall haue iust
cause to admire her infinitely Princely vertues, and thereby bee prouoked
to confesse, that as she hath bin mightily protected from time to time, by
the powerful hand of the almighty, so vndoubtedly, that she is to be iudged
and accounted of vs, to be his most sacred handmaide, and chosen vessel.
And therefore, whatsoever wicked designement shalbe conspired and plotted
against her Maiesty hereafter, shalbe thought to be conspired, plotted, and
intended against the almighty himselfe: and for that cause, as I trust,
shalbe by the infinite goodnes and mercy of that almighty, mightily
frustrate and ouerthrowen.

The 28. day being Munday, the L. Admirall came aboord the Arke againe,
minding there to remaine for a space, as indeed he did, and vpon the aduise
of his Physition, to deale something in Physicke, for that his L. found his
body something out of frame. At that time it pleased his L. to write
certain letters to the Duke of Medina Sidonia, for the deliuerance of
English captiues, who were remaining in the gallies. For by this time, it
was reported, that the said Duke was come downe in person with some power,
and that he was either at Port S. Mary, or els at Rotta, or thereabout. His
L. did endite the letters himselfe, but his pleasure was, they should be
turned into Latine by another: and so to be sent (as indeed they were) in
the latine tongue vnto the Duke.


A copie of the Lord Admirals letters to the Duke of Medina Sidonia.

Illustrissimo Principi Duci de Medina Sidonia.

Illustrissime Princeps, ex nonnullis quibusdam Hispanis intelligimus,
Excellentiam vestram iam nunc esse apud portam S. Mariæ. Et quoniam in anno
Domini 1588. id nobis tunc muneris assignatum erat à sereniss. nostra
Regina domina mea, vt contra vos, vestrásque copias, Ego solus pro eo
tempore Generalis essem constitutus: Idcircò non opinamur vobis ignotum
esse, quàm mite quoddam, et humanum bellandi genus, tum hîc iam in hoc ipso
tempore, aduersus huius loci populum atque incolas vsurpauerimus: tum etiam
sæpius antehac quâm humaniter, benignèque eos omnes tractauerimus, quos ex
vestris iure belli captiuos acceperimus. Ex quorum numero quàm multa milia
etiam gratis, nullo accepto pretio, libertate donauerimus, id putamus
omnibus esse testatius, quàm vt à quoquam denegetur. Quocirca, neque vllo
modo nobis in mentem venire potest, vt dubitemus, quin parem etiam in vobis
humanitatem aduersus nostros captiuos simus reperturi. Cum igitur nobis
compertum iam sit, habere vos in vestris galeris, ex Reginæ nostræ
serenissimæ Dominæ meæ subditis vnum et quinquaginta captiuos: non equidem
dubitamus, quin eos omnes sitis relaxaturi, et ad nos missuri: ea lege, ac
conditione, vt totidem ex vestris hîc captíuis eiusdem loci atque ordinis,
melioris etiam fortassis notæ, ac conditionis, homuncios, ad os vicissim
remittamus. Id quod nos facturos data fide spondemus, quàm primùm nostros
captiuos ex vestris manibus acceperimus. Hac in re si nostro desiderio ac
voluntati parùm satisfactum erit, aliud profectò tunc posthac belli genus
ingrediemur, aliúmque bellandi morem cogemur, etiam inuiti, et contra
voluntatem prosequi. Ex Regia Anglicana classe apud Cadiz vltimo Iunij,
stilo antiquo. 1596.

Carolus Howard.

These letters were sent by a Spaniard, and an answere was brought from the
Duke with al conuenient speed, and as it should seeme by the L. Admirals
next answere returned to him in writing, which immediately hereafter
foloweth, the Duke de Medina Sidonia his letters were honorable, and with
good regard.


A Copie of my L. Admirals second letter to the Duke of Medina Sidonia.

Illustrissimo Principi Duci de Medina Sidonia.

Illustrissime Princeps, literas ab excellentia vestra hodiè accepimus: quæ
verò nostra sit ad illas responsio, nobiles isti viri, qui vestras literas
ad nos pertulerunt: pleniùs declarabunt. Hoc interim cupimus esse penitùs
persuasum Excellentiæ vestræ; nos sedulò operam daturos, vt in omni
honorificæ benignitatis humanitatisque genere, expectationi vestræ omni ex
parte respondeamus. Quod ad Anglicos nostros captiuos attinet, quos ab
Excellentia vestra huc ad nos crastino die missum iri expectamus, in ea re
pollicemur Excellentiæ vestræ, quòd plenius à nobis vestræ voluntati
satisfactum erit: et quòd pro illis captiuis tales nos captiuos vobis
remittemus, quales tum ab ipso Dom. Mendoza, tum ab alijs illustrib. viris,
qui à Dom. Porta Carero in illorum ad nos fauorem mittebantur, communi cum
consensu erant ab ipsis approbati. Si verò quis alius iam captiuus est vel
posthac futurus erit in nostra potestate, pro cuius redemptione nondum
plenè conuentum est et stipulatum de certo pretio persoluendo: concedimus
Excellentiæ vestræ, vt in hoc etiam casu vos, vestro pro arbitrio, de illis
quicquid velitis, imperetis. Ex Regia classe Anglicana, apud Cadiz, 3. die
Iulij stylo antique. 1596.

Carolus Howard.

The next day after, being the 4. of Iuly, the L. L. generall caused the
towne of Cadiz to be set on fire, and rased and defaced so much as they
could, the faire cathedral Church, and the religious houses only being
spared, and left vnblemished. And with the town al such prouision for
shipping, and other things, as were seruiceable for the K. vse, and yet
were not either so conuenient for vs to be caried away, or els such as we
stood no whit at all in need of, were likewise at the same instant consumed
with fire. And presently therupon, their Lordships, with as conuenient,
speed as they could, and the whole army in such good order and leisure, as
they thought best, came aboord.

The next day being the 5. of Iuly, the L. L. generall with all the armie
being vnder saile and now making for England, and but as yet passing the
very mouth of the Bay of Cadiz, a galley full of English prisoners, with a
flag of truce, met vs from Rotta, sent by the D. of Medina Sidonia, and
sent as it should seeme, one day later then his promise: but yet their flag
being either not big enough, or not wel placed in the galley, or not wel
discerned of our men, or by what other mischance I know not: but thus it
was: by one of our smallest ships that sailed formost, assoone as the said
galley came within gunshot, there was a great peece discharged vpon her,
and at that instant there was one man slaine outright, and 2. other
grieuously hurt. The error being espied and perceiued, our ship gaue ouer
immediatly from any farther shooting. Assoone as the galley came neere vs,
my L. Admirall caused a gracious salutation to be sounded with his
trumpets, and willed the captains forthwith to come aboord his ship: which
they did, and then he feasted them with a very fine and honorable banket,
as the time and place might serve. And then by them vnderstanding of that
unfortunate mischance that had hapned by the shot of the said ship, he was
very sory for the same, and yet such was the merciful prouidence of
almighty God, that euen in this mischance also, he did hold his holy hand
ouer the English. And al the harme that was done did light onely vpon the
poore Turk, and the Spaniard himselfe. When this Lorde had well banqueted
them, hee presently called for his barge, and did accompany the said galley
to the Lorde general the Earle of Essex, who then did ride with his ship a
good distance off: and there they being in like maner most honorably
receiued, and intertained, the Spanish gentlemen deliuered vp their
prisoners the English captiues, of whom some had bin there 6 yere, some 8,
or ten: yea, and some 22. yeere, and vpward, and some of them but lately
taken in S. Francis Drakes last voiage to the Indies. The number of the
prisoners deliuered were but 39, and no mo, and were brought in, and
deliuered by Don Antonio de Corolla and his brother, and, by Don Pedro de
Cordua, and certaine others. If you demaund why, of one and fiftie
Captiues, there were no moe deliuered then was, I presuppose, (and I thinke
it true to) that at that time the residue were farther off in some remote
places of Spaine bestowed, and so by that meanes, not able at this time to
bee in a readinesse, but yet like enough that there is some good order
taken for them hereafter, to be redeemed, and sent ouer into England.

If any man presume here so farre, as to enquire how it chanced, that the
Lords generall rested so long at Cadiz, and went no farther, and why Port
S. Mary being so faire a towne, and so neere to them, was forborne? and why
Sheres aliàs Xeres? And why Rotta and the like? And why this or that was
done? And why that or this left vndone? I will not answere him with our
common English prouerbe, as I might, which is: That one foole may aske moe
questions in one houre, then ten discrete men can wel answere in fiue
dayes.

But that graue auncient writer, Cornelius Tacitus, hath a wise, briefe,
pithy saying, and it is this: "Nemo tentauit inquirere in columnas
Herculis, sanctiúsque ac reuerentius habitum est de factis Deorum credere,
quàm scire." Which saying, in my fancy, fitteth marueilous well for this
purpose: and so much the rather, for that this Cadiz is that very place,
(at least by the common opinion) where those said pillers of Hercules were
thought to be placed: and, as some say, remaine as yet not farre off to be
seene. But to let that passe, the saying beareth this discrete meaning in
it, albeit in a prety kind of mystical maner vttered: That it befitteth not
inferiour persons to be curious, or too inquisitiue after Princes actions,
neither yet to be so sawcy and so malapert, as to seeke to diue into their
secrets, but rather alwayes to haue a right reuerend conceite and opinion
of them, and their doings: and thereon so resting our inward thoughts, to
seek to go no further, but so to remaine ready alwaies to arme our selues
with dutiful minds, and willing obedience, to perform and put in execution
that which in their deepe insight and heroicall designements, they shall
for our good, and the care of the common wealth determine vpon.

This, and much lesse to, might suffice to satisfie any honest minded man.
But yet if any will needs desire to be a little farther satisfied, albeit
it neede not, yet then, this much I dare say and affirme, that vpon my
knowledge, the chiefest cause why Port Saint Mary, and the rest were left
vntouched, was this: For that it was most certainly knowen, that they were
townes not woorth the saluting of such a royal companie, in which there was
no maner of wealth in the world left, more then bare houses of stone, and
standing walles, and might well haue serued rather as a stale, perchance,
to haue entrapped, then as a meanes to haue enriched. And it had bin more
then a suspicion of follie, for such an army as this, to haue sought to
fight with the aire, and to haue laboured with great paine and charges,
yea, and with some euident danger too, to haue ouerthrowen that, which
could very litle or nothing haue profited, being destroyed: and yet nowe,
can doe as little harme being left, as it is, vntouched.

And thus much for our iourney to Cadiz: for the accidents that happened by
the way, for the winning, spoiling, and burning of the saide towne, for the
ouerthrowe of the Spanish Fleet there, and for al other by-matters that
happened, as appendances to the same, both in the time of our abode there,
as also at the very last houre of our comming from thence.

As for our returne home, and our entrance into a part of Portingal by the
way, with the taking, spoyling, and burning of the towne of Faraon there,
and marching into the Spanish confines therabouts, &c. I minde to leaue it
to some other, whose chance was to be present at the action, as myselfe was
not, and shalbe of more sufficient ability to performe it.

       *       *       *       *       *

The Most Honourable Tragedie of Sir Richard Grinuile, Knight. 1595.
  [Footnote: At London, printed by I. Roberts, for Richard Smith, 1595.
  (Written by Gervase Markham--KTH).]

That time of yeare when the inamored Sunne
Clad in the richest roabes of liuing fiers,
Courted the Virgin signe, great Nature Nunne,
Which barrains earth of al what earth desires
Euen in the month that from _Augustus_ wonne,
His sacred name which vnto heauen aspires,
  And on the last of his ten trebled days,
  When wearie labour new refresh assayes.

Then when the earth out-brau'd the beautious Morne,
Boasting his cornie Mantle stird with aire,
Which like a golden Ocean did adorne,
His cold drie carcasse, featurelesse, vnfaire,
Holding the naked shearers scithe in scorne,
Or ought that might his borrowed pride empaire,
  The soule of vertue seeing earth so ritch,
  With his deare presence gilds the sea as mitch.

The sea, which then was heauie, sad, and still,
Dull, vnapplyed to sportiue wantonnesse,
As if her first-borne _Venus_ had beene ill,
Or _Neptune_ seene the _Sonne_ his loue possesse,
Or greater cares, that greatest comforts kill,
Had crowned with griefe, the worlds wet wildernesse,
  Such was the still-foot _Thetis_ silent paine,
  Whose flowing teares, ebbing fell backe againe.

_Thetis_, the mother of the pleasant springs,
Grandam of all the Riuers in the world,
To whom earths veins their moistning tribut brings,
Now with a mad disturbed passion hurld,
About her caue (the worlds great treasure) flings:
And with wreath'd armes, and long wet hairs uncurld,
  Within her selfe laments a losse vnlost,
  And mones her wrongs, before her ioyes be crost

Thus whilst churning sorrowe ceaz'd her hart,
_Grinuile_ (ô melt my spyrit in that name,)
As sings the Swan her funerall depart,
And waues her wings the ensignes of her fame,
So he, with vertue sweetning bitter smart,
Which from the seas long toyling seruice came:
  For why, sixe Moones, and so oft times the Sunne
  Was past, and had one halfe the signes ore-runne,

Ere he the earth, our common Mother saw;
Now earlie greets black _Flores_ banefull Ile,
(_Flores_, from whence afflictions selfe doth draw
The true memorialls of a weeping stile;)
And with _Caisters_ Querristers[1] which straw
Descant, that might Death of his darts beguile,
  He tunes saluting notes, sweeter then long,
  All which are made his last liues funerall song.

Skillesse in deaths great Parliament he cals
His fellow mat's, and minions to his fame,
Shewes them long lookt for land, and how it brauls,
Repulsing backe the billowes as they came,
Much he triumphes, and passed griefe for-stals
With present ioy (sorrow lights pleasures flame:)
  And whilst his hopes of _Happy-Fortune_ sings,
  _Misfortune_ by, controls them with her wings.

Desir'd reliefe, and euer welcome rest,
The elements that forme the wearie man,
Began to hold a counsaile in his brest,
Painting his wants by sicknes pale and wan;
With other griefes, that others force opprest,
Aduising stay, (as what is but they can,)
  Whilst he that fate to come, and past, nere feard,
  Concludes to stay till strength decayd repaird.

Then casts he Anchor hulling on the maine,
And all his shyps poore Citizens recounts,
And hundred iust were free from sicknes paine,
Fourscore and ten death their redress accounts;
So that of all both sicke and sound vnslaine,
Vnto two hundred wanting ten amounts.
  A slender armie for so great a guide,
  But vertue is vnknowne till it be tride.

Those whom their harts enabled to attempt,
He puts a shoare to make supplie for neede;
Those whom long sicknes taught of death contempt,
He visits, and from _Ioues_ great Booke doth reede
The balme which mortall poysen doth exempt;
Those whom new breathing health like sucklings feed,
  Hie to the sands, and sporting on the same,
  Finde libertie, the liues best liuing flame.

Looke how a troope of Winter-prisoned Dames,
Pent in th' inclosure of the walled townes,
Welcoms the Spring, Vsher to Somer flames,
Making their Pastimes in the flowrie downes,
Whose beauteous Arras[2] wrought in natures frames,
Through eyes admire, the hart with wonder crownes,
  So the wood-walled citizens at sea,
  Welcome both Spring and Sommer in a day.

The warring byllowes, seas artillerie,
With long held siege, had bruz'd their beaten keele,
Which to repaire the most, most busied be,
Lab'ring to cure, what want in labours feele;
All pleas'd with toyle, clothing extremitie
In Hopes best robes, that hang on Fortunes wheele
  But men are men, in ignorance of Fate,
  To alter chaunce, exceedeth humaine state.

For when the Sun, towred in heauens head,
Downe from the siluer mountaine of the skye,
Bent his bright Chariot on the glassie bed,
Faire christall, guilded with his glorious eye,
Fearing some usurpation in his stead,
Or least his Loue should too-long daliance spy
  Tweene him and _Virgo_, whose attractiue face,
  Had newly made him leaue the _Lyons_ chase.

In that same myd-daies hower came sayling in,
A thought-swift-flying Pynnase, taught by winde,
T' outstrip in flight Times euer flying wing;
And being come where vertue was inshrinde,
First vaild his plumes, and wheeling in a ring,
With Goat-like dauncing, stays where _Grinuile_ shynd,
  The whyle his great Commaunder calls the name,
  Which is ador'd of all that speakes the same.

The great Commaunder of this little Barke,
Which like an Eglet armes the Eagles side,
Was _Midleton_, the ayme of Honors marke,
That more had prou'd then danger durst haue tride,
Now seeing all good fortunes sun-shine darke,
Thrise calls Sir _Richard_, who as oft replyde,
  Bidding him speake, and ring his newes aloude,
  Ill, not apald, nor good could make him proude.

O then (quoth Midleton) thou soule of all
What euer boasts in magnanimitie,
Thou, whom pure Vertue her best part doth call,
Better then valure, stronger then dietie,
Whom men adore, and all the gods exhall
Into the bookes of endlesse memorie,
  I bring thee tidings of a deadly fray,
  Begun in Heauen, to end vpon the Sea.

The glorious Senate of the Skyes was set,
And all the gods were royaliz'd in state,
When _Happy-fortune_ and _Ill-fortune_ met,
Striuing who first should enter Heauen's gate,
The one made mad the others fame to let,
Neither but stirr'd with rage to wonder at,
  Confusedly, as water floods doe passe
  Their common bounds, such their rude entrance was.

The gods disturb'd, admire their strange aproch,
Censuring their angers by their gloing eyes,
_Ill-fortune_ was attended by _Reproch_,
_Good-fortune, Fame_, and _Vertue_ stellesies;[3]
One sweares the other doth her right incroch,
Which is the elder house, none can deuise:
  The gods diuide, yet in the end agree
  The Fates shall iudge each others pedigree.

_Good-Fortune_, drawes from heauen her hye descent,
Making hie _Ioue_ the roote of her large tree;
She showes from him how many god-heads went,
_Archangells, Angells_, heauen's posteritie:
From thence, she shows the glorious thrid she lent,
To _Monarks, Emperours_, and _Kyngs_ in fee,
  Annexing as Colatteralls to her line,
  _Honour, Vertue, Valure_, and _Endles-time_.

Naithlesse, _Ill-fortune_ will be elder borne,
She saith, she springs from _Saturne, Ioues_ wronged Sier,
And heauen, and earth, and hell her coate haue borne,
Fresh bleeding harts, within a field of fier;
All that the world admires, she makes her scorne,
Who farthest seemes, is to _Ill-fortune_ nier,
  And that iust proofe may her great praise commend,
  All that _Best-chaunce_ begins, _Ill-chaunce_ doth ende.

Thus they, dispute, guilding their tongues report
With instances, and argumental sawes,
_Ill-fortune_, bids let all the worlde resort,
And show within their Chronicles and lawes,
The man whose liue-line neuer did consort,
With sharpe affliction, deaths first grounded cause,
  Then will she yeeld, else, is shee victor still.
  Worlds good is rare, perpetuall is their ill.

Euen as the racket takes the balls rebound;
So doth _Good-fortune_ catch _Ill-fortunes_ proofe,
Saying, she wil her in herselfe confound,
Making her darts, Agents for her behoofe;
Bow but thine eies (quoth she) whence ha'ts abound,
And I will show thee vnder heauens roofe
  Th' vnconquered man whom no mischance importunes.
  Crown of my kingdom, deaths man to misfortune.

At this, the casments of the skye broke ope,
Discouering all what's girdled in her frame,
Whilst _Happy-fortune_ through her eyes large scope
Like a Cosmographer comments on the same;
Three parts with praise she past and future hope,
Then to the fourth, the Westerne world she came,
  And there, with her eyes festrawe paints a storie,
  Stranger than strange, more glorified than glorie.

See (sayd _Faire-fortune_, to her soule shapt _Foe_)
How on the scourge that beates against the Ile
Of _Flores_, whence they curst oblations growe,
A winde-taught capring ship which ayre beguiles,
(Making poore _Cephalus_ for-lorne with woe,
Curse arte, which made arte framed saile such smiles)
  Richlie imbrodred with the Iems of warre,
  In thy dispight commaunds a lucky starrye.

In that faire vessel liues my garlands flower.
_Grinuile_, my harts immortall arterie;
Of him thy deitie had neuer power,
Nor hath hee had of griefe one simpathie;
Successe attends him, all good hap doth shower
A golden raine of perpetuitie
  Into his bossome, whete mine Empire stands,
  Murdring the Agents of thy blacke commands.

Say, and say true, (for what but thou wilt say,)
That euer _Grinuils_ fortunes came before thee,
Of euer prostrate at thine Altars lay,
Or with one wreath of Cipresse did adore thee?
Proue one blacke storme in all his Sommers day,
Whose threatening clouds compeld him to implore thee.
  Then wil I staine my milkwhite vaile with weeping,
  And as thine handmaide dye in sorrowes keeping.

As wounds the lightning, yet preserues the skinne,
So did these words split _Lucklesse-fortunes_ hart,
Her smiling _Superficies_, lockt within
A deepe exulcerated festring smart;
Heere shee perceiu'd her first disgrace begin,
And wordlesse from the heauens takes her depart.
  Yet as she flewe her wings in flying cri'd
  On _Grinuile_ shall my fame and power be tride.

At her departure all the heauens were glad.
Triumphing in _Ill-fortunes_ banishment,
_Apollo_ set new _Anthems_ as _Ioue_ bad,
Which spheare tunes made more then most excellent;
No light in heauen but with new fier was clad,
Making next _Ioue, Good-fortune_ president,
  Enrowling in the Bookes of destenie,
  This memorable famous victorie.

Only the _Fat's_ su'd for her backe repeale,
(For they _Ill-fortune_ lou'd exceeding well)
Many her deedes and Tropheis they reueale,
And all her liues blacke legend, weeping tell;
Yet all they speake, cannot in heauen preuaile,
Which seene, in spight they follow her to hell,
  And there inhoused with their mother _Night_,
  All foure deuise, how heauen and earth to spight.

Hence sprang the loues of _Ioue_, the _Sonnes_ exile,
The shame of _Mars_ and _Venus_ in a net;
_Iunos_ forsaken bed; Saturns compile
Of frantike discontentment, which beset
All heauen with armes; _Diana_ hence had while
To court her sleeping boy; whilst _Thetis_ let
  _Phoebus_ imbrace her in her _Neptunes_ stead,
  Who made complaints, breach of his bridall bed:

Yet not content with these disparagments,
Much greater mischiefes issues from their minds,
_Grinuile_, thy mountaine honour it augments
Within their breasts, a Meteor like the winds,
Which thrall'd in earth, a reeling issue rents
With violent motion; and their wills combinds
  To belch their hat's, vow'd murdrers of thy fame,
  Which to effect, thus they begin the same.

Fast to _Iberia_ flies vntoward chaunce,
_Iberia_, which we vulgar Christen _Spaine_,
Vpon whose Sunne-burnt continent doth daunce
Westerne _Ducallidon_, the greatest maine,
Thither shee packs, _Error_ doth their aduance
Her coale-blacke standerd in the hands of paine;
  And as escapt from rauishment or bale,
  With false teares, thus shee tunes a falser tale.

Great Empire (said shee) blessed in thy birth,
Beautious created for-head of this round,
That with thy smiles first lent to heauen mirth,
And bout thy temples all perfections woond,
Lodgd in th' immagin'd corners of the earth;
Thou whom our centers Monarchesse art crownd,
  Attend my suite, baptisd in mournefull teares,
  Who but ere while triumphed on the spheares.

Nor for my selfe more then thine owne decay
Which blindfold pleasure clouds as they arise,
Be gracious, and retort the domefull daye
Which thee and me to shame would sacrifice.
Loe, on the great west-walling boisterous sea,
Which doth imbrace thy gold-enclosing eyes,
  Of many sailes one man, of one poor Ile,
  That will my fame, and all thy faire defile.

His numberlesse great infinits of fame,
Haue shut against me heauens great christall dore,
The clouds, which once my feets dust had to name,
Hang ore my forhead, threatning euermore
Death to my praise; life to my infant shame,
Whilst I with sighes mediate a new restore.
  And in my selfe behold my pleasures past,
  Swimming amongst the ioyes I cannot tast.

Th' ambrosian Nectar-filled banqueting,
No more shall I communicate, or see,
Triumphes in heauen, _Ioues_ masks, and reuelling,
Are cleene exempt, both from my ioyes and me.
The reason, for my loue to thee I bring,
Trimming the locks with Iems of dietie,
  Making the gods a dread a fatall day,
  Worse then the Giants warre or Centaurs fray.

Poore goddesse, rob'd of all eternall power,
Whose broken Statues, and down razed Fan's,
Neuer warm'd altars, euer forgotten hower
Where any memorie of praise is tane,
Witnes my fall from great _Olympus_ tower;
Prostrate, implore blame for receiued bane,
  And dyre reuenge gainst heauens impietie,
  Which els in shame will make thee follow mee.

Behold these robes, maps of my fortunes world,
Torne, and distaind with eye-scornd beggerie;
These rags deuide the Zones, wherein is hurld
My liues distemprate, hote cold miserie;
These teares are points, the scale these hairs vncurld,
My hands the compasse, woe the emperie:
  And these my plaints, true and auriculer,
  Are to my Globe the perpendiculer.

Looke how I am, such art thou like to be
If armes preuent not heauens intendiment,
_Grinuile_, which now surfeits with dignitie,
Burd'ning the Sea with my disparagement;
Chiding the wanton winds if greedelie
They kisse his sailes; or els too slowlie vent,
  Like _Ioue_, which bad the day be and it was,
  So bids he Conquest warre; she brings to passe.

The sole incouragement he giues his power,
Is Prophet-like presaging of thy death,
Courage he cries, euen in the dying hower,
And with his words, recalls departing breath;
O (sayes he to his Mat's) you are my glories tower,
Impregnable, wall'd with vnuanquisht faith,
  You are the hands and agents of my trust,
  I but the hart reuoluing what we must.

Liue Saints, til we haue ript the wombe of _Spayne_,
And wounded _Error_ in the armes of hell,
Crushing the triple Myter in disdaine,
Which on the seauenfold mounted Witch doth dwel,
Angells rewards for such dissignes remaine,
And on heauens face men shall your stories tell;
  At this they shoute; as eager of the pray,
  As Ants in winter of a sunne-shine day.

Thus like triumphant _Cæsar_ drawne in Rome,
By winged _Valure_, and vnconquered _Chaunce_,
He plowes the Sea (ô were it made his tombe)
Whilst _Happy-fortune_ pypes unto his daunce.
Yet may thy power alternat heauens doome,
So pleaseth thee thy forward will t'aduance,
  And cheare the sinews of thy mighty arme,
  Whose out-strecht force shall quell his proud alarme.

Then giue newe fuell to his honours fier,
Least slight regard wealth-winning _Error_ slay,
And so old _Saturns_ happie world retyer,
Making _Trueths_ dungion brighter than the day;
Was neuer woe could wound thy kingdom nyer,
Or of thy borrowed beautie make display,
  Because this vow in heauens booke doth remaine,
  That _Errors_ death shall consumate thy raigne.

Now, for my god-heads remnant liues in thee,
Whose lost successe breeds mine eternall end,
Take for thine ayde, afflicting _Miserie_,
_Woe_, mine attendant, and _Dispayre_ my freend,
All three my greatest great _Triumuerie_,
Blood bath'd _Carnifici_, which will protend
  A murdring desolation to that will,
  Which me in thee, and thee in mee would kill.

Here, with her fixed Comet-blazing eyes,
The damned _Augurs_ of vntimely death,
Shee ends her tale, whilst from her harts caue flyes
A storme of winds, no gentle sighing breath,
All which, like euill spirits in disguise,
Enter _Iberias_ eares, and to her sayth,
  That all the substance of this damned storie,
  Was zealous true, coyned for her _Spanish_ glorie.

Sworne to beleeue, for ill, in ill assies,
_Spayne_ then enamour'd with the _Romane_ trull,
Calls all her forces, more then Atomies,
And tells _Ill-fortunes_ storie to the full;
Many Parenthises shee doth deuise,
And frost-relenting words doth choycely cull,
  Bewitching those whom oft shee had deceiued,
  With such like Hemlock as her selfe receiued.

The first and greatest one, commaunding all,
The soule of mischiefes old created mother,
Was _Don Alphonso Bassan_, proud in brall,
The Marques _Sancta Cruces_ onely brother;
Him shee coniures by typ's emperiall,
And all that falshoods seeming trueth could couer,
  To vndertake this hie (she termed it) act,
  Which craues a curse of all that reads the fact.

Her selfe (shee said) and all the flowers of _Spayne_,
Should vnder his, as heauens Ensigne warre:
Thus from her harts foule dunghill flyes amaine
Grosse vapours, metamorphosd to a starre;
Her words in fumes like prodogies retaine
His hart, by her tongues witchcraft bound so farre,
  And what shee will, that will hee vnder-take,
  Be it to warre with heauen for her sake.

The seeming Nectar of her poysoning speech,
So well shee saw surprise his licoras sence,
That for to reare her ill beyonds ills reach,
With selfe-like tropes, decks self-like eloquence,
Making in _Britain Dona_ such a breach,
That her arm'd wits, conqu'ring his best wits sence,
  He vowes with _Bassan_ to defende the broile,
  Which men of praise, and earth of fame shal spoile.

To him shee giues the _Biscaynnoys_ for guard,
Mechanicall Artificers for death,
And those which of affliction neuer hard,
She tempers with the hammer of her breath:
To euery act shee giues huge lyp-reward,
Lauish of oathes, as falshood of her faith;
  And for the ground of her pretended right,
  T'is hate, which enuies vertue in a Knight.

These two to her fast bound in vassailage,
Vnto the Marques _Arumburch_ shee flyes,
Him shee prouokes, him shee finds apt to rage,
Imprisoning Pitties teares in flintie eyes;
To him the power of _Siuill_ for a gage
Shee doth bequeath; bidding his prowesse ryse,
  And clense his Countries face from widowes tears,
  To which he posts, like lightning from the sphears.

Lastly, to make vp mischiefes perfect square,
To _Luis Cutino_ shee takes her flight,
Him shee commaunds, he to her homage sware
To guide a Nauie to this damned fight,
Of Hulks and Fly-boats such as durst to dare.
Shee giues him soueraine rule, and publique right,
  And then vniting all foure powers in one,
  Sends them to sea, to calme _Misfortunes_ mone.

And now behold (diuine for valiancie)
Like flying Castells sayle they to this strand,
Fiftie three saile, strong in artillarie;
Best men of warre knowne in the _Spanish_ land;
Fifteene Armados, Kings of soueraigntie,
Which led the lesser with a mightie hand:
  And these in foure battalions hither flie,
  With whom three dayes I sailed in companie.

Then gentle _Grinuile, Thetis_ parramoure,
Dearer than _Venus_, Daughter of the flood,
Set sailes to wind, let not neglect deuoure
Thy gracious fortunes and thine Angell goode,
Cut through the maine, compell thy keele to scoure,
No man his ill too timelie hath with-stoode
  And when _Best-chaunce_ shal haue repaird thy fortune,
  Time for this flight may iust reuenge importune.

Here _Midelton_ did end the passing peale
Which gaue the warning to a dismall end,
And as his words last knell began to faile,
This damned Nauie did a glimmering send,
By which _Sir Richard_ might their power reueale,
Which seeming conquerlesse did conquests lend;
  At whose appearance _Midelton_ did cry,
  See where they come, for fame and pitty flie.

This certaine story, of too certaine ill,
Did not extinguish, but gaue honour fier,
Th'amazing prodigie, (bane of my quill,)
Bred not astonishment, but a strong desier,
By which this heauen-adopted Knights strong will,
Then hiest height of Fame, flew much more hier:
  And from the boundlesse greatnes of his minde,
  Sends back this answer through his lyps refin'd.

Thanks hardie _Midelton_ for thy dilate,
Perswasiue presage to auoyde my death,
But if thou wed my fortunes with my state,
This sauing health shall suffocate my breath,
To flye from them that holds my God in hate,
My Mistres, Countrey, me, and my sworne fayth,
  Were to pull of the load from _Typhons_ back,
  And crush my selfe, with shame and seruille wrack.

Nor if my hart degenerate should yeeld,
To entertaine an amorus thought of life,
And so transport mine honour to the field,
Where seeming valure dies by cowards knife,
Yet zeale and conscience shall new forces build,
And others soules, with my soule holdeth strife;
  For halfe my men, and all that draw sound breath,
  Are gone on shore, for foode to conquer death.

If I forsake them, certaine is their end,
If I obtaine them, doubtfull is our fall,
Vpon my flight, shame and their sacks depend,
Vpon my stay, hope of good hap doth call,
Equall to me, the meanest I commend;
Nor will I loose, but by the losse of all:
  They are the sinewes of my life and fame,
  Dismembred bodies perish cripple-lame.

This sayd, he sends a cock-boate to the shore,
To summon backe his men vnto their ship,
Who com'd a board, began with some vprore
To way their Anchors, and with care to dip
Their hie reuolues in doubt, and euermore,
To paint deaths visage with a trembling lip,
  Till he that was all fearelesse, and feare slew,
  With Nectard words from them all dangers drew.

When _Midelton_ saw _Grinuills_ hie reuolue,
Past hope, past thought, past reach of all aspire,
Once more to moue him flie he doth resolue,
And to that purpose tips his tongue with fier;
Fier of sweete words, that easelie might dissolue
And moisten flint, though steeld in stiffe attire,
  Had not desier of wonder praise, and fame,
  Extinkt the sparks, and still keepe dead the flame.

Greater, and better then inarked he,
Which in the worlds huge deluge did suruiue,
O let thy wings of magnanimitie,
Not vainlie flatter, _Honour_ to acchiue,
Gainst all conceit impossibilitie,
By which thou murderst _Vertue_, keepe aliue,
  Nor in thy seeking of diuinitie,
  Kill not heauens fame by base mortalitie.

O _Grinuile_ thou hast red Philosophy
Nature and Arte hath made thee excellent,
And what thou read'st, hath grafted this in thee,
That to attempt hie dangers euident
Without constraint or neede, is infamie,
And honor turnes to rashhes in th'euent:
  And who so darrs, not caring how he darrs,
  Sells vertues name, to purchase foolish starrs.

Deere Knight, thou art not forst to hazard fame,
Heauens haue lent thee meanes to scape thine ill,
If thou abide, as true as is thy name,
So truly shall thy fault, thy death fulfill:
And as to loue the life for vertues flame,
Is the iust act of a true noble will,
  So to contemne it, and her helps exclude,
  Is baseness, rashness, and no _Fortitude_.

He that compard mans bodie to an hoast,
Sayd that the hands were scouts, discouering harmes,
The feete were horsemen, thundring on the coast,
The brest, and stomacke, footmen, huge in swarmes.
But for the head, in soueraigntie did boast,
It Captayne was, director of alarms,
  Whose rashness, if it hazarded an ill,
  Not hee alone but all the hoast did spill.

Rash _Isadas_, the _Lacedemon_ Lord,
That naked fought against the _Theban_ power,
Although they crown'd his valure by accord,
Yet was hee find for rashness in that hower:
And those which most his carelesse praise affoard,
Did most condemne what follie did deuoure;
  For in attempting, prowesse is not ment,
  But wiselie doing what we doe attempt.

Then sith t'is valure to abandon fight,
And base to darre, where no hope is to winne,
(Renowned man, of all renowne the light)
Hoyst vp thy sailes, delay attrackts thy sinne,
Flie from ill-boding starres with all thy might,
Vnto thy hart let praise and pittie in.
  This sayd, and more desirous much to crie,
  Sir _Richard_ stayd him, with this rich replie.

Captayne, I praise thy warlike eloquence,
And sober Axioms of Philosophie,
But now's no time for schoole points difference,
When Deaths blacke Ensigne threatens miserie;
Yet for thy words sound of such consequence.
Making flight praise, and fight pale obloquie,
  Once ere I die, Ile clense my wits from rust,
  And proue my flying base, my stay most iust.

Whence shall I flie? from refuge of my fame,
From whom? euen from my Countreis mortall foe,
Whither? but to the dungeon of my shame,
Why shall I flie? for feare of happie woe,
What end of flight? to saue vile life by blame,
Who ist that flies? _Grinuile_? Captayne no,
  T'is _England_ flies, faire Ile of happines,
  And true diuine _Elizas_ holynes.

Shall then my life regard taynt that choice faire?
First will I perrish in this liquid round,
Neuer shall Sunne-burnt _Spanyards_ tongue endeare
_Iberian_ eares with what shall me confound,
The life I haue, I for my Mistris beare,
Curst were that life, should it her scepter wound,
  And trebble cursed be that damned thought,
  Which in my minde hath any fayntnes wrought.

Now, for Philosophie defends thy theame,
Euen selfe Philosophie shall arme my stile,
Rich buskin'd _Seneca_, that did declaime,
And first in _Rome_ our tragicke pompe compile,
Saith, _Fortitude_ is that which in extreme
And certaine hazard all base feares exile:
  It guides, saith he, the noble minde from farre,
  Through frost, and fier, to conquer honors warre.

Honie-tongd _Tullie_, Mermaid of our eares,
Affirmes no force, can force true _Fortitude_,
It with our bodies, no communion beares,
The soule and spyrit, sole doth it include;
It is that part of honestie which reares
The hart to heauen, and euer doth obtrude
  Faint feare, and doubt, still taking his delight
  In perrills, which exceed all perrills might.

_Patience, Perseuerance, Greatnes_, and _Strong Trust_,
These pages are to _Fortitude_ their King,
_Patience_ that suffers, and esteemeth iust,
What euer woe, for vertue fortunes bring;
_Perseuerance_, holds constant what we must,
_Greatnes_, that still effects the greatest thing.
  And armed _Trust_, which neuer can dispaire,
  But hopes good hap; how euer fatall deare.

The Roman _Sergius_, hauing lost his hand,
Slew with one hand foure in a single fight,
A thing all reason euer did with-stand.
But that bright _Fortitude_ spred forth her light
_Pompey_, by storme held from _th' Italyan_ land,
And all his sailors quaking in his sight,
  First hoisted saile, and cry'd amidst the strife,
  There's neede I goe, no neede to saue my life.

_Agis_ that guilt the _Lacedemon_ streete,
Intending one day battaile with his foes,
By counsaile was repeld, as thing vnmeete,
The enemie beeing ten to one in shoes;
But he reply'd, Tis needful that his feete
Which many leads, should leade to many bloes:
  And one being good, an Armie is for ten
  Foes to religion, and known naughty men.

To him that told _Dienecus_, his foes
Couer'd the Sun with darts and armed speares,
Hee made reply, Thy newes is ioy in woes,
Wee'le in the shadow fight, and conquer feares.
And from the _Polands_ words my humor floes,
I care for naught but falling of the Spheares.
  Thunder affrights the Infants in the schooles,
  And threatnings are the conquerors of fooles.

As these, my case is not so desperate,
And yet, then these, my darre shall be no lesse:
If this in them, for fame was wondred at,
Then this in mee, shall my desiers expresse;
Neuer shall _Greece_, nor _Rome_, nor Heathen state,
With shining honor, _Albions_ shine depresse,
  Though their great circuits yeelds their acts large bounds,
  Yet shall they neuer darr for deeper wounds.

And thus resolu'd, deere _Midelton_ depart,
Seeke for thy safetie in some better soyle,
Thy stay will be no succour in my smart,
Thy losse will make them boast of better spoyle.
And be assur'd before my last breath part,
Ile make the Sunne, for pittie backe recoyle.
  And clothe the sea within a scarlet pale,
  Iudge of their death which shall my life exhale.

This ship which now intombs my iealous soule,
Honestlie enuious of aspiring laude,
Is cald _Reuenge_, the scourge which doth controule,
The recreants that _Errors_ right applaud,
Shall like her selfe, by name and fame enroule
My spyrits acts, by no _Misfortune_ aw'd,
  Within eternall Bookes of happie deeds,
  Vpon whose notes, immortall Vertue reeds,

Say, if I perish, t'was mine honours will,
My Countries loue, religion, and my Queene,
And if that enuie glorie in mine ill,
Say that I dyed, conqu'ring, vnconquered seene.
Say fiftie three strong shyps could not fulfill,
Gainst one poore mayden vessell their foule teene,
  But that in spight of death, or miserie,
  She fought, and foyled, and scapt captiuitie.

Replie not _Midelton_, mine eares are clos'd,
Hie in heauen's for-head are my vowes ingrau'd,
I see the banefull Nauie nowt disclosed,
Begon betime, Fate hath thy fortune sau'd;
To me good starres were neuer yet opposed,
Glorie hath crownd me when I glorie crau'd,
  Farwel, and say how euer be my chaunce,
  My death at honours wedding learnt to daunce.

This sayd, away sailes Midelton with speede,
Sad, heauie, dull, and most disconsolate,
Shedding stout manlie teares at valures deed,
Greeuing the ruine of so great estate;
But _Grinuile_, whose hope euer did exceede,
Making all death in daungers fortunate,
  Gan to prouide to quell this great vprore,
  Then which the like was neuer heard before.

His fights set vp; and all things fit prepard,
Low on the ballast did he couch his sick,
Being fourscoore ten, in Deaths pale mantle snar'd,[4]
Whose want to war did most their strong harts prick.
The hundred, whose more sounder breaths declard,
Their soules to enter Deaths gates should not stick,
  Hee with diuine words of immortall glorie,
  Makes them the wondred actors of this storie.

Nothing he left vnsaid that tongue could say,
To breede contempt of death, or hate of thrall,
Honours reward, fame for a famous day,
Wonder of eares, that men halfe gods shall call:
And contrarie, a hopelesse certaine way,
Into a Tyrants damned fists to fall,
  Where all defame, base thoughts, and infamie,
  Shall crowne with shame their heads eternally.

In this great thunder of his valiant speech,
From whence the eares-eyes honors lightning felt,
The _Spanish_ Nauie came within the reach
Of Cannon shot, which equallie was delt
On eyther side, each other to impeach;
Whose volleys made the pittying skyes to melt,
  Yet with their noyse, in _Grinuiles_ heart did frame,
  Greater desier, to conquer greater fame.

And now the sunne was past his middle way,
Leaning more louely to his Lemans bed,
And the noones third hower had attacht the day,
When fiftie three gainst one were basely led;
All harts were fierd; and now the deadlie fray,
Began tumultuouslie to ouer-spread.
  The sea with fier, the Element with smoake
  Which gods, and monsters from their sleep awoake.

In foure great battailes marcht the _Spanish_ hoast,
The first of _Siuill_, led in two great squares,
Both which with courage, more then can be most,
Sir _Richard_ forst to giue him way with cares;
And as the Sea-men terme it in our coast,
They sprang their luffe, and vnder lee declares,
  Their manie forces feebled by this one,
  Whose thoughts, saue him, are rightly due to none.

And now he stands amidst the thickest throngs,
Walld round with wooden Castels on the waue,
Fiftie three Tygers greedie in their wrongs,
Besiedge the princelie Lion in his caue:
Nothing sees _Grinuile_ which to hope belongs,
All things are fled that any hap could saue;
  Bright day is darkned by incurtaind night,
  And nothing visits them but Canons light.

Then vp to heauen he lifts his loftie hart,
And cryes, old _Salon_, I am happy made.
All earthlie thoughts cleane from his spirits part,
_Vertue_ and _Valure_ all his sences lade,
His foes too fewe, too strong he holds his part,
Now doth he wish for millions to inuade,
  For beeing conqueror he would conquer all,
  Or conquered, with immortall honour fall.

Neuer fell hayle thicker then bullets flew,
Neuer show'rd drops faster than showring blowes,
Liu'd all the _Woorthees_, all yet neuer knew
So great resolue in so great certaine woes;
Had _Fame_ told _Cæsar_ what of this was true,
His Senate-murdred spirite would haue rose,
  And with faire honors enuie wondred then,
  Cursing mortalitie in mightie men.

Whilst thus affliction turmoyld in this brall,
And _Grinuile_ still imployed his Actor death,
The great _San-philip_, which all _Spayne_ did call
Th' vnuanquisht ship, _Iberias_ soule and faith,
Whose mountaine hugenes more was tearmed then tall,
Being twice a thousand tuns as rumour saith,
  Came rushing in, becalming _Grinuiles_ sailes,
  Whose courage grew, the more his fortunes failes.

Hotlie on eyther side was lightning sent,
And steeled thunder bolts dinge men to hell,
Vnweldie _Phillip_, backt with millions lent,
Worse cracks of thunder then on _Phaeton_ fell,
That with the dayes fier fiered the Element;
And why? because within her ribs did dwell,
  More store of shot and great artillarie,
  Then might haue seru'd the worlds great victorie.

Three tire of Cannon lodg'd on eyther side,
And in each tire, eleuen stronglie lay,
Eyght in her chase, that shot forth right did bide,
And in her sterne, twice eight that howerlie play;
Shee lesse great shot, in infinets did hide,
All which were Agents for a dismall day.
  But poore _Reuenge_, lesse rich, and not so great,
  Aunswered her cuffe for cuffe, and threat for threat.

Anon they graple eyther to the other,
And doth the ban-dogge with the Martins skinne;
And then the wombe of _Phillip_ did vncouer,
Eight hundred Souldiers, which the fight beginne:
These board Sir _Richard_, and with thronging smother
The daye, the ayre, the time, and neuer linne,
  But by their entrance did instruct eight more,
  To doe the like, on each side foure and foure.

Thus in one moment was our Knight assaild,
With one huge _Argosie_, and eight great ships,
But all in vaine, their powers naught prevaild,
For the _Reuenge_, her Canon loud-dogs slips,
Whose bruzing teeth, so much the _Phillip_ quaild,
That foundring in the greedie maine, he dips
  His damned bodie in his watrie tombe,
  Wrapt with dishonour in the Oceans wombe.

The other eight, fighting, were likewise foild,
And driuen perforce vnto a vile retraite,
None durst abide, but all with shame recoild,
Whilst _Valures_ selfe, set _Grinuile_ in her seate;
Onely _Don Luis Saint Iohn_, seeing spoild,
His Countries honour by this strange defaite,
  Single encountred _Grinuile_ in the fight,
  Who quicklie sent his soule to endlesse night.

_George de Prunaria_, a Spanish Knight,
Euer held valiant in dispight of fate,
Seconded _Luis_, and with mortall might,
Writ on Sir _Richards_ target souldiers hate,
Till _Grinuile_ wakned with his loud rung fight,
Dispatcht his soules course vnto _Plutos_ gate:
  And after these two, sent in post all those
  Which came within his mercie or his blowes.

By this, the sunne had spread his golden locks,
Vpon the pale green carpet of the sea,
And opned wide the scarlet dore which locks
The easefull euening from the labouring day;
Now Night began to leape from iron Rocks,
And whip her rustie wagon through the way,
  Whilst all the _Spanish_ host stoode maz'd in sight,
  None darring to assayle a second fight.

When _Don Alfonso_, Generall of the warre,
Saw all his Nauie with one ship controld,
He toare his hayre, and loudlie cryd from farre,
For honour _Spanyards_, and for shame be bold;
Awaken Vertue, say her slumbers marre
_Iberias_ auncient valure, and infold
  Her wondred puissance, and her glorious deeds,
  In cowards habit, and ignoble weeds.

Fie, that the spyrit of a single man,
Should contradict innumerable wills,
Fie, that infinitiues of forces can,
Nor may effect what one conceit fulfills;
Woe to the wombe, ceaselesse the teats I ban,
That cherrisht life, which all our liues ioyes kills;
  Woe to our selues, our fortunes, and our minds,
  Agast and scarrd, with whistling of the winds.

See how he triumphes in dispight of death,
_Promethean_ like, laden with liuing fier,
And in his glorie spits disdainfull breath,
Loathing the baseness of our backe retire;
Euen now me thinke in our disgrace he saith,
Foes to your fames, why make you Fate a lyer,
  When heauen and she haue giuen into your hand,
  What all the world can neuer back demand?

Say that the God of _Warre_; Father of Chiualrie,
The _Worthies_, _Heroes_, all fam'd Conquerours,
_Centaurs_, _Gyants_, victorious _Victorie_,
Were all this _Grinuils_ hart-sworne paramours.
Yet should we fightlesse let our shyps force flie:
Well might we crush his keele with rocklike powers,
  And him with them ore-whelme into the maine,
  Courage then harts, fetch honour backe againe.

Heere shame, the fretting canker of the mind,
That fiers the face with fuell from the hart,
Fearing his weapons weakenes, eft assigned
To desperate hardines his confounding dart,
And now the _Spanyards_ made through words stone blind,
Desperate by shame, ashamd dispaire should part,
  Like damned scritchowles, chimes to dead mens hours,
  Make vowes to fight, till fight all liues deuours.

And now the tragicke sceane of death begins,
Acts of the night, deeds of the ouglie darke,
When Furies brands gaue light to furious sins,
And gastlie silence gaping wounds did marke;
Sing sadlie then my Muse (teares pittie wins)
Yet mount thy wings beyond the mornings Larke,
  And wanting thunder, with thy lightnings might,
  Split cares that heares the dole of this sad night.

The fier of _Spaynes_ pride, quencht by _Grinuils_ sword,
_Alfonso_ rekindles with his tong,
And sets a batelesse edge, ground by his word
Vpon their blunt harts feebled by the strong,
Loe animated now, they all accord,
To die, or ende deaths conflict held so long;
  And thus resolud, too greedelie assay
  His death, like hounds that hold the Hart at bay.

Blacker then night, more terrible then hell,
Louder then thunder, sharper then _Phoebus_ steele,
Vnder whose wounds the ouglie _Python_ fell,
Were bullets mantles, clowding the haplesse keele,
The slaughtered cryes, the words the cannons tell,
And those which make euen rocky Mountaines reele,
  And thicker then in sunne are Atomies,
  Flew bullets, fier, and slaughtered dead mens cries.

At this remorsles Dirgie for the dead,
The siluer Moone, dread Soueraigne of the Deepe,
That with the floods fills vp her horned head
And by her waine the wayning ebbs doth keepe:
Taught by the Fat's how destenie was led,
Bidds all the starres pull in their beames and weepe:
  For twas vnfit, chast hallowed eyes should see
  Honour confounded by impietie.

Then to the night she giues all soueraigne power,
Th'eternall mourner for the dayes diuorce,
Who drowned in her owne harts killing shower,
Viewes others torments with a sad remorse.
This flintie Princesse, ayme cryes to the hower,
On which to looke, kinde eies no force could force.
  And yet the sight her dull hart so offended,
  That from her sight a fogge dewe descended.

Now on our Knight, raines yron, sword, and fiers,
Iron wrapt in smoke, sword bath'd in smoking blood,
Fiers, furies king, in blood and smoke aspires
The consumation of all liuing good,
Yet _Grinuile_, with like Agents like expires
His foemen's darts, and euermore withstood
  Th'assaults of death, and ruins of the warre,
  Hoping the splendour of some luckie starre.

On eyther side him, still two _Gallions_ lay,
Which with continuall boardings nurst the fight,
Two great _Armados_, howrelie ploy'd their way,
And by assaulte, made knowne repellesse might.
Those which could not come neere vnto the fray,
Aloose dicharg'd their volleys gainst our Knight.
  And when that one shrunk back, beat with disgrace,
  An other instantly supply'd the place.

So that their resting, restlesse him containd,
And theyr supplies, deny'd him to supply:
The _Hydra_ of their mightines ordaind
New spoile for death, when old did wounded lie:
But hee, _Herculian_-like one state retaind,
One to triumph, or one for all to die.
  Heauen had onelie lent him but one hart,
  That hart one thought, that thought no feare of smart.

And now the night grew neere her middle line,
Youthfully lustie in her strongest age,
When one of _Spaynes_ great _Gallions_ did repine,
That one should many vnto death ingage,
And therefore with her force, halfe held diuine,
At once euaporates her mortall rage,
  Till powerfull _Grinuille_, yeelding power a toombe
  Splyt her, & sunck her in the salt waves wombe.

When _Cutino_, the Hulks great Admirall,
Saw that huge Vessel drencht within the surge,
Enuie and shame tyered vpon his gall,
And for reuenge a thousand meanes doth vrge;
But _Grinuile_, perfect in destructions fall,
His mischiefes with like miseries doth scourge,
  And renting with a shot his wooden tower,
  Made _Neptunes_ liquid armes his all deuouer.

These two ore-whelm'd, _Siuills Ascension_ came,
A famous ship, well man'd and strongly drest,
_Vindicta_ from her Cannons mouthes doth flame,
And more then any, our dread Knight oppresst:
Much hurt shee did, many shee wounded lame,
And _Valurs_ selfe, her valiant acts confest.
  Yet in the end, (for warre of none takes keepe)
  _Grinuile_ sunck her within the watry deepe.

An other great _Armado_, brusd and beat,
Sunck neere _S. Michaels_ road, with thought to scape,
And one that by her men more choicely set,
Beeing craz'd and widow'd of her comly shape,
Ran gainst the shore, to pay _Ill-chaunce_ her debt,
Who desolate for desolations gape:
  Yet these confounded, were not mist at all.
  For new supplies made new the aged brall.

This while on _Grinuile_ ceazed no amaze.
No wonder, dread, nor base astonishment,
But true resolue, and valurs sacred blaze,
The crowne of heauen, and starrie ornament
Deck't his diuine part, and from thence did raze
Affects of earth, or earth's intendiment.
  And in this broyle, as cheerefull was his fight,
  As _Ioues_, embracing _Danae_ by night.

Looke how a wanton Bridegroome in the morne,
Busilie labours to make glad the day,
And at the noone, with wings of courage borne,
Recourts his bride with dauncing and with play,
Vntil the night which holds meane bliss in scorne,
By action kills imaginations sway,
  And then, euen then, gluts and confounds his thought,
  With all the sweets, conceit or Nature wrought,

Euen so our Knight the bridegroome vnto _Fame_,
Toild in his battailes morning with vnrest,
At noone triumph'd and daunst, and made his game,
That vertue by no death could be deprest;
But when the night of his loues longings came,
Euen then his intellectuall soule confest
  All other ioyes imaginarie were
  Honour vnconquerd, heauen and earth held deare.

The bellowing shotte which wakened dead mens swounds,
As _Dorian_ musick, sweetned his cares,
Ryuers of blood, issuing from fountaine wounds,
Hee pytties, but augments not with his teares,
The flaming fier which mercilesse abounds,
Hee not so much as masking torches feares,
  The dolefull Eccho of the soules halfe dying,
  Quicken his courage in their banefull crying.

When foule _Misfortune_ houering on a Rock,
(The stonie girdle of the _Florean_ Ile,)
Had seene this conflict, and the fearfull shock,
Which all the _Spanish_ mischiefes did compile,
And saw how conquest licklie was to mock
The hope of _Spayne_, and fauster her exile,
  Immortall shee, came downe herselfe to fight,
  And doe what else no mortall creature might.

And as she flew the midnights waking starre,
Sad _Cassiopea_ with a heauie cheare,
Pusht forth her forehead, to make known from farre,
What time the dryrie dole of earth drew neare,
But when shee saw _Misfortune_ arm'd in warre,
With teares she blinds her eyes, and clouds the ayre,
  And asks the Gods, why _Fortune_ fights with man?
  They say, to doe, what else no creature can.

O why should such immortall enuie dwell,
In the enclosures of eternall mould?
Let Gods with Gods, and men with men retell,
Vnequall warres t'vnequall shame is sould;
But for this damned deede came shee from hell,
And _Ioue_ is sworne, to doe what dest'nie would,
  Weepe then my pen, the tell-tale of our woe,
  And curse the fount from whence our sorrows flow.

Now, now, _Misfortune_ fronts our Knight in armes,
And casts her venome through the _Spanysh_ hoast,
Shee salues the dead, and all the lyuing warmes
With vitall enuie, brought from _Plutos_ coast;
Yet all in vaine, all works not _Grinuils_ harmes;
Which seene, shee smiles, and yet with rage imbost[5]
  Saith to her selfe, since men are all too weake,
  Behold a goddesse shall thy lifes twine breake.

With that shee takes a Musket in her hand,
Raft from a dying Souldiour newlie slaine,
And ayming where th' vnconquered Knight did stand,
Dischargd it through his bodie, and in twaine
Deuids the euer holie nuptiall band,
Which twixt his soule, and worlds part shold remaine,
  Had not his hart, stronger then _Fortunes_ will,
  Held life perforce to scorne _Misfortunes_ ill.

The bubling wound from whence his blood distild,
Mourn'd to let fall the hallowed drops to ground,
And like a iealous loue by riuall illd,
Sucks in the sacred moisture through the wound;
But he, which felt deaths fatall doome fulfilld,
Grew fiercer valiant, and did all confound,
  Was not a _Spanyard_ durst abord him rest,
  After he felt his deaths wound in his brest.

Hundreds on hundreds, dead on the maymed fall,
Maymed on sounde, sound in them selues lye slaine,
Blest was the first that to his ship could crall,
For wounded, he wounds multituds againe;
No sacrifice, but sacrifice of all,
Could stay his swords oblations vnto paine,
  Nor in _Phillipie_, fell for _Cæsars_ death,
  Soules thicker then for _Grinuils_ wasting breath.

The _Nemian_ Lyon, _Aramanthian_ Bore,
The _Hircanian_ Tyger, nor the _Cholcean_ Bulls,
Neuer extended rage with such vprore,
Nor in their brests mad monstrous furie lulls;
Now might they learne, that euer learnt before,
Wrath at our Knight, which all wrath disanulls,
  For slauish death, his hands commaunded more,
  Then Lyon, Tyger, Bull, or angrie Bore.

Had _Pompey_ in _Pharsalia_ held his thought,
_Cæsar_ had neuer wept vpon his head,
Had _Anthonie_ at _Actiome_ like him fought,
_Augustus_ teares had neuer drowned him dead,
Had braue _Renaldo_, _Grinuiles_ puissance bought,
_Angelica_ from France had neuer fled,
  Nor madded _Rowland_ with inconstancie,
  But rather slayne him wanting victorie.

Before a storme flewe neuer Doues so fast,
As _Spanyards_ from the furie of his fist,
The stout _Reuenge_, about whose forlorne wast,
Whilome so many in their moods persist,
Now all alone, none but the scourge imbrast,
Her foes from handie combats cleane desist;
  Yet still incirkling her within their powers,
  From farre sent shot, as thick as winters showers.

_Anger_, _and Enuie_, enemies to _Life_,
Strong smouldering _Heate_ and noisom stink of _Smoke_,
With over-labouring _Toyle_, _Deaths_ ouglie wife,
These all accord with _Grinuiles_ wounded stroke,
To end his liues date by their ciuell strife,
And him vnto a blessed state inyoke,
  But he repelld them whilst repell he might,
  Till feinting power, was tane from power to fight

Then downe he sat, and beat his manlie brest,
Not mourning death, but want of meanes to die;
Those which suruiu'd coragiouslie be blest,
Making them gods for god-like victorie;
Not full twice twentie soules aliue did rest,
Of which the most were mangled cruellie,
  Yet still, whilst words could speake, or signes could show,
  From death he maks eternall life to grow.

The Maister-gunner, which beheld his eyes
Dart fier gainst death triumphant in his face,
Came to sustaine him, and with courage cryes,
How fares my Knight? worlds glory, martiall grace?
Thine honour, former honours ouer-flyes,
And vnto _Heauen_ and _Vertue_ bids the bace;
  Cheere then thy soule, and if deaths wounding pain it,
  _Abram's_ faire bosome lyes to entertaine it.

Maister, he sayes, euen heers the opned dore,
Through which my spirit bridgroome like must ride,
(And then he bar'd his wounded brest all gore)
To court the blessed virgine Lambe his bride,
Whose innocence the worlds afflictions bore,
Streaming diuine blood from his sliced side,
  And to that heauen my soule with courage flyes,
  Because vnconquered, conquering it dyes.

But yet, replyed the Maister once againe,
Great vertue of our vertues, strive with fate,
Yeeld not a minute vnto death, retaine
Life like thy glory, made to wonder at.
This wounds recouerie well may entertaine
A double triumph to thy conquering state,
  And make thee liue immortall Angell blest,
  Pleaseth thee suffer it be searcht and drest.

Descend then gentle _Grinvile_ downe below,
Into my Cabin for a breathing space,
In thee there let thy Surgion stanch our woe,
Giuing recuer to thee, our wounded case,
Our breaths, from thy breaths fountaine gently flow,
If it be dried, our currents loose their grace:
  Then both for vs, and thee, and for the best,
  Descend, to haue thy wound bound vp and drest.

Maister, reply'd the Knight, since last the sunne
Lookt from the hiest period of the sky,
Giuing a signall of the dayes mid noone,
Vnto this hower of midnight, valiantly,
From off this vpper deck I haue not runne,
But fought, and freed, and welcomd victorie,
  Then now to giue new couert to mine head,
  Were to reuiue our foes halfe conquered.

Thus with contrarie arguments they warre,
Diuers in their opinions and their speech,
One seeking means, th' other a will to darre;
Yet both one end, and one desire reach:
Both to keepe honour liuing, plyant are,
Hee by his fame, and he by skilfull leach,
  At length, the Maister winnes, and hath procurd
  The Knight discend, to have his woundings curd.

Downe when he was, and had display'd the port
Through which his life was martching vp to heauen,
Albe the mortall taint all cuers retort,
Yet was his Surgion not of hope bereuen,
But giues him valiant speech of lifes resort,
Saves, longer dayes his longer fame shall euen,
  And for the meanes of his recouerie,
  He finds both arte and possibilitie.

_Misfortune_ hearing this presage of life,
(For what but chimes within immortall eares)
Within her selfe kindles a home-bred strife,
And for those words the Surgions doomes day swears.
With that, her charg'd peece (_Atropos_ keene knife,)
Againe she takes, and leueld with dispairs,
  Sent a shrill bullet through the Surgions head,
  Which thence, through _Grinuils_ temples like was led.

Downe fell the Surgion, hope and helpe was reft,
His death gaue manumition to his soule,
_Misfortune_ smyld, and euen then shee left
The mournfull Ocean, mourner for this dole;
Away shee flyes, for all was now bereft,
Both hopes and helpe, for life to win deaths gole;
  Yet _Grinuile_ vnamaz'd with constant faith,
  Laughing dispisd the second stroke of death.

What foole (saith he) ads to the Sea a drop,
Lends _Etna_ sparks, or angry stormes his wind?
Who burnes the root when lightning fiers the top?
Who vnto hell, can worse then hell combind?
Pale hungry Death, thy greedy longings stop,
Hope of long life is banefull to my mind:
  Yet hate not life, but loath captiuitie,
  Where rests no trust to purchase victorie.

Then vp he came with feeble pace againe,
Strength from his blood, blood from his wounds descending,
Saies, here I liu'd, and here wil I sustaine,
The worst of Deaths worst, by my fame defending,
And then he fell to warre with might and maine,
Valure on death most valiantly depending,
  And thus continued aye coragiously,
  Vntil the day chast shadowes from the sky.

But when the mornings dewie locks drunk vp
A mistie moysture from the Oceans face,
Then might he see the source of sorrowes cup,
Plainly prefigured in that hatefull place;
And all the miseries that mortals sup
From their great Grandsire _Adams_ band, disgrace;
  For all that did incircle him, was his foe,
  And that incircled, modell of true woe.

His masts were broken, and his tackle torne,
His vpper worke hew'd downe into the Sea,
Naught of his ship aboue the sourge was borne,
But euen leueld with the Ocean lay,
Onely the ships foundation (yet that worne)
Remaind a trophey in that mighty fray;
  Nothing at all aboue the head remained,
  Either for couert, or that force maintained.

Powder for shot, was spent and wasted cleane,
Scarce seene a corne to charge a peece withall,
All her pykes broken, halfe of his best men slaine,
The rest sore wounded, on Deaths Agents call,
On th'other side, her foe in ranks remains,
Displaying multitudes, and store of all
  What euer might auaile for victorie,
  Had they not wanted harts true valiancie.

When _Grinuile_ saw his desperate drierie case,
Meerely dispoyled of all success-full thought,
Hee calls before him all within the place,
The Maister, Maister-gunner, and them taught
Rules of true hardiment to purchase grace;
Showes them the end their trauailes toile had bought,
  How sweet it is, swift _Fame_ to ouer-goe,
  How vile to diue in captiue ouerthrow.

Gallants (he saith) since three a clock last noone,
Vntill this morning, fifteene howers by course,
We haue maintaind stoute warre, and still vndoone
Our foes assaults, and driue them to the worse,
Fifteene _Armados_ boardings haue not wonne
Content or ease, but beene repeld by force,
  Eight hundred Cannon shot against her side,
  Haue not our harts in coward colours died.

Not fifteene thousand men araungd in fight,
And fifteene howers lent them to atchiue,
With fifty three great ships of boundlesse might,
Haue had or meanes or prowesse to contriue
The fall of one, which mayden vertue dight,
Kept in despight of _Spanish_ force aliue.
  Then list to mee you imps of memorie,
  Borne to assume to immortalitie.

Sith loosing, we vnlost keepe strong our praise,
And make our glories, gaynours by our ends,
Let not the hope of howers (for tedious dayes
Vnto our lines no longer circuite lends)
Confound our wondred actions and assayes,
Whereon the sweete of mortal eares depends,
  But as we liue by wills victorious,
  So let vs die victours of them and vs.

Wee that haue mercilesse cut Mercies wings,
And muffeld pittie in deaths mistie vale,
Let vs implore no mercie; pittyings,
But from our God, deere fauour to exhale
Our soules to heauen, where all the Angells rings
Renowne of vs, and our deepe tragick tale;
  Let us that cannot liue, yet liue to dye,
  Vnthrald by men, fit tropheys for the skye.

And thus resolu'd since other meane is reft,
Sweet Maister-gunner, split our keele in twaine,
We cannot liue, whom hope of life hath left,
Dying, our deaths more glorious liues retain,
Let not our ship, of shame and foile bereft,
Vnto our foe-men for a prize remaine;
  Sinke her, and sinking with the _Greeke_ wee'le cry,
  Best not to be, or beeing soone to dye.

Scarce had his words tane wings from his deere tong,
But the stout Maister-gunner, euer rich
In heauenlie valure and repulsing wrong,
Proud that his hands by action might inritch
His name and nation with a worthie song,
Tow'rd his hart higher then Eagles pitch,
  And instantlie indeuours to effect
  _Grinuils_ desier, by ending Deaths defect.

But th' other Maister, and the other Mat's,
Disented from the honour of their minds,
And humbly praid the Knight to rue their stat's,
Whom miserie to no such mischiefe binds;
To him th' aleadge great reasons, and dilat's
Their foes amazements, whom their valures blinds,
  And maks more eager t'entertaine a truce,
  Then they to offer words for warres excuse.

They show him diuers gallant men of might,
Whose wounds not mortall, hope gaue of recuer,
For their saks sue they to diuorce this night
Of desperate chaunce, calld vnto Deaths black lure,
Their lengthened liues, their countries care might right,
And to their Prince they might good hopes assure.
  Then quod the Captaine, (deare Knight) do not spill,
  The liues whom gods and Fat's seeke not to kill.

And where thou sayst the _Spanyards_ shall not braue
T' haue tane one ship due to our virgin Queene,
O knowe, that they, nor all the world can saue,
This wounded Barke, whose like no age hath seene,
Sixe foote shee leaks in hold, three shot beneath the waue,
All whose repaire so insufficient beene,
  That when the Sea shall angrie worke begin,
  She cannot chuse but sinke and dye therein.

Besides, the wounds and brusings which she beares,
Are such, so manie, so incurable,
As to remoue her from this place of feares.
No force, no wit, no meane, nor man is able;
Then since that peace prostrate to vs repaires,
Vnlesse our selues, our selues make miserable,
  _Herculeen_ Knight, for pittie, pittie lend,
  No fame consists in wilfull desperat end.

These words with emphasis and action spent,
Mou'd not Sir _Richard_, but inrag'd him more,
To bow or yeeld, his heart would neare relent,
He still impugns all thought of lifes restore;
The Maister-gunner euer doth consent
To act his wish, swearing, in beds of gore
  Death is most louelie, sweete and amiable,
  But captiu'd life for foulenes admirable.

The Captayne, seeing words could take no place,
Turnes backe from them vnto the liuing few,
Expounds what pittie is, what victors grace;
Bids them them selues, them selues in kindnes rew,
Peace if they please, will kindlie them imbrace,
And they may liue, from whom warres glory grew;
  But if they will to desperate end consent,
  Their guilty soules too late shall mourne repent.

The sillie men, who sought but liuing ioyes,
Cryes to the Captaine for an honord truce,
Life they desire, yet no life that destroyes
Their wonne renownes, but such as might excuse
Their woes, their wounds, and al what els anoyes
Beautie of laude, for other they refuse;
  All which the Captaine swears they shal obtaine,
  Because their foes, in doubtfull states remaine.

O when Sir _Richard_ saw them start aside,
More chaynd to life then to a glorius graue,
And those whom hee so oft in dangers tryde,
Now trembling seeke their hatefull liues to saue.
Sorrow and rage, shame, and his honors pride,
Choking his soule, madly compeld him raue,
  Vntil his rage with vigor did confound
  His heauie hart; and left him in a swound.

The Maister-gunner, likewise seeing Fate
Bridle his fortune, and his will to die,
With his sharpe sword sought to set ope the gate,
By which his soule might from his bodie flie,
Had not his freends perforce preseru'd his state,
And lockt him in his Cabbin safe to lie,
  Whilst others swarm'd where haplesse _Grinuile_ lay,
  By cryes recalling life, late runne away.

In this too restlesse turmoile of vnrest,
The poore _Reuenges_ Maister stole awaye,
And to the _Spanish_ Admirall adrest
The dolefull tidings of this mournfull day,
(The _Spanish_ Admirall who then oprest,
Houering with doubt, not daring t'end the fray,)
  And pleads for truce, with souldier-like submission
  Anexing to his words a straight condition.

_Alfonso_, willing to giue end to armes,
For well he knew _Grinuile_ would neuer yeild,
Able his power stoode like vnnumbred swarmes,
Yet daring not on stricter tearmes to build,
He offers all what may alay their harmes
Safetie of liues, nor any thrall to weild,
  Free from the Gallie, prisonment, or paine,
  And safe returne vnto their soyle againe

To this he yeelds, as well for his own sake,
Whom desperate hazard might indamage sore,
As for desier the famous Knight to take,
Whom in his hart he seemed to deplore,
And for his valure halfe a God did make,
Extolling him all other men before,
  Admiring with an honourable hart,
  His valure, wisdome, and his Souldiours Art.

With peacefull newes the Maister backe returns,
And rings it in the liuing remnants eares,
They all reioyce, but _Grinuile_ deadly mourns,
He frets, he sighs, he sorrowes and despaires,
Hee cryes, this truce, their fame and blisse adiourns,
He rents his locks, and all his garments teares,
  He vowes his hands shall rent the ship in twaine
  Rather then he will _Spanish_ yoke sustaine.

The few reseru'd, that life esteem'd too well,
Knowing his words were warrants for his deede,
Vnkindly left him in that monstrous hell,
And fled vnto _Alfonso_ with greate speede,
To him their Chieftaines mightines they tell,
And how much valure on his soule doth feede,
  That if preuention, not his actions dim,
  Twill be too late to saue the shyp or him.

_Bassan_ made proude, vnconquering t'ouer-come,
Swore the brave Knight nor ship he would not lose,
Should all the world in a petition come:
And therefore of his gallants, fortie chose
To board Sir _Richard_, charging them be dombe
From threatning words, from anger, and from bloes,
  But with all kindnes, honor, and admire
  To bring him thence, to further _Fames_ desire.

Sooner they boarded not the crazed Barke,
But they beheld where speechlesse _Grinuile_ lay,
All smeard in blood, and clouded in the darke,
Contagious curtaine of Deaths tragick day;
They wept for pittie, and yet silent marke
Whether his lungs sent liuing breath away,
  Which when they sawe in ayrie blasts to flie,
  They striu'd who first should stanch his misery.

Anon came life, and lift his eye-lids vp,
Whilst they with teares denounce their Generals wil,
Whose honord mind sought to retort the cup
Of deaths sad poyson, well instruckt to kill;
Tells him what fame and grace his eyes might sup
From _Bassans_ kindnes, and his Surgions skill,
  Both how he lou'd him, and admir'd his fame,
  To which he sought to lend a liuing flame.

Aye mee (quoth _Grinuile_) simple men, I know
My bodie to your Generall is a pray,
Take it, and as you please my lyms bestow,
For I respect it not, tis earth and clay:
But for my minde that mightier much doth grow,
To heauen it shall, despight of _Spanish_ sway.
  He swounded, and did neuer speake againe.
  This said, orecome with anguish and with paine,

They took him vp, and to theyr Generall brought
His mangled carkasse, but vnmaimed minde,
Three dayes hee breath'd, yet neuer spake he ought,
Albe his foes were humble, sad, and kinde;
The fourth came downe the Lambe that all souls bot,
And his pure part, from worser parts refind,
  Bearing his spirite vp to the loftie skyes,
  Leauing his body, wonder to wonders eyes.

When _Bassan_ saw the Angell-spirite fled,
Which lent a mortall frame immortall thought,
With pittie, griefe, and admiration led,
He mournfully complaind what Fat's had wrought.
Woe me (he cryes) but now aliue, now dead,
But now inuincible, now captiue brought:
In this, vniust are Fat's, and Death declared,
That mighty ones, no more than meane are spared.
You powers of heauen, rayne honour on his hearse,
And tune the Cherubins to sing his fame,
Let Infants in the last age him rehearse,
And let no more, honour be Honor's name:
Let him that will obtaine immortall vearse,
Conquer the stile of _Grinuile_ to the same,
For till that fire shall all the world consume,
Shall neuer name, with _Grinuile_ name presume.
Rest then deere soule, in thine all-resting peace,
And take my teares for tropheys to thy tombe,
Let thy lost blood, thy vnlost fame increase,
Make kingly eares thy praises second wombe:
That when all tongues to all reports surcease,
Yet shall thy deeds, out-liue the day of doome,
  For even Angels, in the heasens shall sing,
  _Grinuile_ vnconquered died, still conquering.
                                    _O ælinam_.

Footnotes:

1: Choristers.

2: Hangings, so called from having first been made at Arras.

3: Constellations.

4: Entangled.

5: Blown by being hunted.
     "But being then _imbost_, the stately deer
     When he hath gotten ground," &c.
         --_Drayton's Polyolbian_, xiii, p. 917.

       *       *       *       *       *

A true report of a worthy fight, performed in the voyage from Turkie, by
  fiue ships of London, against 11. Gallies, and two frigats of the King of
  Spaines, at Pantalarea within the Streights. Anno, 1586. Written by
  Philip Iones.

The Marchants of London, being of the incorporation of the Turkey trade,
hauing receiued intelligencies, and aduertisements, from time to time, that
the King of Spaine grudging at the prosperitie of this kingdome, had not
onely of late arrested al English ships, bodies, and goods in Spaine, but
also maligning the quiet trafique which they vsed to and in the dominions,
and prouinces, vnder the obedience of the Great Turke, had giuen order to
the Captaines of his gallies in the Leuant, to hinder the passage of all
English ships, and to endeuour by their best meanes, to intercept, take,
and spoile them, their persons, and goods: they hereupon thought it their
best course to set out their flete for Turkie, in such strength and
abilitie for their defence, that the purpose of their Spanish enemie might
the better be preuented, and the voyage accomplished with greater securitie
to the men and shippes. For which cause, fiue tall, and stoute shippes,
appertaining to London, and intending onely a Marchants voyage, were
prouided and furnished with all things belonging to the Seas; the names
whereof were these:

1. The Marchant Royal, a very braue and good shippe, and of great report.

2. The Tobie.

3. The Edward Bonauenture.

4. The William and Iohn.

5. The Susan.

These fiue departing from the coast of England, in the moneth of Nouember
1585. kept together as one fleete, til they came as high as the Isle of
Sicilie, within the Leuant. And there, according to the order and direction
of the voyage, each shippe began to take leaue of the rest, and to separate
himselfe, setting his course for the particular port, whereunto hee was
bounde: one for Tripolie in Syria, another for Constantinople, the chiefe
Citie of the Turkes Empire, situated vpon the coast of Romania, called of
olde, Thracia, and the rest to those places, whereunto they were priuatly
appointed. But before they diuided themselues, they altogether consulted,
of and about a certaine and speciall place for their meeting againe after
the lading of their goods at their seuerall portes. And in conclusion, the
generall agreement was to meet at Zante, an Island neere to the maine
continent of the West part of Morea, well knowen of all the Pilots, and
thought to be the fittest place of their Rendeuous. Concerning which
meeting, it was also couenanted on eche side, and promised, that whatsoeuer
ship of these 5. should first arriue at Zante, should there stay and expect
the comming of the rest of the fleete, for the space of twentie dayes. This
being done, ech man made his best hast according as winde and wether woulde
serue him to fiulfill his course, and to dispatch his businesse: and no
neede was there to admonish or incourage any man, seeing no time was ill
spent, nor opportunitie omitted on any side, in the performance of ech mans
duetie, according to his place.

It fell out that the Tobie which was bound for Constantinople had made such
good speede, and gotten such good weather, that she first of al the rest
came back to the appointed place of Zante, and not forgetting the former
conclusion, did there cast ancre, attending the arriuall of the rest of the
fleete, which accordingly (their busines first performed) failed not to
keepe their promise. The first next after the Tobie was the Royal Marchant,
which together with the William and Iohn came from Tripolie in Syria, and
arriued at Zante within the compasse of the foresaide time limitted. These
ships in token of the ioy on all parts concerned for their happy meeting,
spared not the discharging af their Ordinance, the sounding of drums and
trumpets, the spreading of Ensignes with other warlike and ioyfull
behaviours, expressing by these outward signes, the inward gladnesse of
their mindes, being all as ready to ioyne together in mutuall consent to
resist the cruel enemie, as now in sporting maner they made myrth and
pastyme among themselues. These three had not bene long in the hauen, but
the Edward Bonauenture also, together with the Susan her consort, were come
from Venice with their lading, the sight of whom increased the ioy of the
rest, and they no lesse glad of the presence of the others, saluted them in
most friendly and kinde sort, according to the maner of the Seas: and
whereas some of these ships stoode at that instant in some want of
victuals, they were all content to stay in the port, till the necessities
of ech shippe were supplied, and nothing wanted to set out for their
returne.

In this port of Zante, the newes was fresh and currant, of two seuerall
armies and fleetes prouided by the king of Spaine, and lying in waite to
intercept them: the one consisting of 30. strong Gallies, so well appointed
in all respects for the warre, that no necessary thing wanted: and this
fleete houered about the Streights of Gibraltar. The other armie had in it
20. Gailies, whereof some were of Sicilie, and some of the island of Malta,
vnder the charge and gouernment of Iohn Andrea Dorea, a Captaine of name
seruing the king of Spaine. These two diuers and strong fleetes waited and
attended in the Seas for none, but the English shippes, and no doubt made
their accompt and sure reckoning that not a shippe should escape their
furie. And the opinion, also of the inhabitants of the Isle of Zante was,
that in respect of the number of Gallies in both these armies, hauing
receiued such straight commandement from the king, our ships and men being
but few, and little in comparison of them, it was a thing in humane reason
impossible, that wee should passe either without spoiling, if we resisted,
or without composition at the least, and acknowledgement of duetie to the
Spanish king.

But it was neither the report of the attendance of these armies, nor the
opinions of the people, nor any thing else, that could daunt or dismay the
courages of our men, who grounding themselues upon the goodnesse of their
cause, and the promise of God, to bee deliuered from such as without reason
sought their destruction, carried resolute mindes, notwithstanding all
impediments to aduenture through the Seas, and to finish their Nauigations,
maugre the beards of the Spanish souldiers. But least they should seeme too
carelesse, and too secure of their estate, and by laying the whole and
entire burden of their safetie vpon Gods prouidence, should foolishly
presume altogether of his helpe, and neglect the meanes which was put into
their handes, they failed not to enter into counsell among themselues, and
to deliberate aduisedly for their best defence. And in the end with
generall consent, the Marchant Royall was appointed Admirall of the fleete,
and the Tobie Viceadmiral, by whose orders the rest promised to be
directed, and ech shippe vowed not to breake from another, whatsoeuer
extremitie should fall out, but to stand to it to the death, for the honour
of their Countrey, and the frustrating of the hope of the ambitious and
proud enemie.

Thus in good order they left Zante and the Castle of Græcia, and committed
themselues againe to the Seas, and proceeded in their course and voyage in
quietnes, without sight of any enemie, till they came neere to Pantalarea,
an Island so called, betwixt Sicilie, and the coast of Africke: into sight
wherof they came the 13. day of Iuly 1586. And the same day in the morning
about 7. of the clocke they descried 13. sailes in number, which were of
the Gallies, lying in waite of purpose for them, in and about that place.
As soone as the English ships had spied them, they by and by according to a
common order, made themselues ready for a fight, layd out their Ordinance,
scoured, charged, and primed them, displayed their ensignes, and left
nothing vndone to arme themselues throughly. In the meane time, the Gallies
more and more approched the ships, and in their banners there appeared the
armes of the Isles of Sicilia, and Malta, being all as then in the seruice
and pay of the Spaniard. Immediatly, both the Admirals of the Gallies sent
from ech of them a frigate, to the Admiral of our English ships, which
being come neere them, the Sicilian frigat first hailed them, and demanded
of them whence they were? They answered that they were of England, the
armes whereof appeared in their colours. Whereupon the saide frigat
expostulated with them, and asked why they delayed to sende or come with
their Captaines and pursers to Don Pedro de Leiua their Geuerall, to
acknowledge their duty and obedience to him in the name of the Spanish
king, Lord of those seas? Our men replied and said, that they owed no such
duetie nor obedience to him, and therefore would acknowledge none, but
commanded the frigat to depart with that answere, and not to stay longer a
brabling, vpon her perill. With that away she went, and vp comes towards
them the other frigat of Malta, and shee in like sort hailed the Admiral,
and would needs know whence they were, and where they had bene. Our
Englishmen in the Admirall, not disdaining an answere, tolde them that they
were of England, Marchants of London, had bene at Turkie, and were now
returning home: and to be requited in this case, they also demaunded of the
frigat whence she and the rest of the gallies were: the messenger answered,
we are of Malta, and for mine owne part my name is Cauallero. These gallies
are in seruice and pay to the king of Spaine, vnder the conduct of Don
Pedro de Leiua a noble man of Spaine, who hath bene commanded hither by the
King with this present force and armie, of purpose to intercept you. You
shall therefore (quoth he) do well to repaire to him to know his pleasure,
he is a noble man of good behauiour and courtesie, and meanes you no ill.
The Captaine of the English Admiral, whose name was M. Edward Wilkinson,
replied and said. We purpose not at this time to make triall of Don Pedro
his courtesie, whereof we are suspitious and doubtful, and not without good
cause: vsing withall good words to the messenger, and willing him to come
aboord him, promising securitie and good vsage, that thereby he might the
better knowe the Spaniards minde: whereupon hee in deed left his frigat,
and came aboord him, whom hee intertained in friendly sort, and caused a
cuppe of wine to be drawne for him, which be tooke and beganne, with his
cap in his hand, and with reuerend termes to drinke to the health of the
Queene of England, speaking very honourably of her Maiestie, and giving
good speeches of the courteous vsage and interteinement that he himselfe
had receiued in London, at the time that the duke of Alenson, brother to
the late French king was last in England: and after he had well drunke, hee
tooke his leaue, speaking well of the sufficiencie and goodnesse of our
shippes, and especially of the Marchant Royal, which he confessed to haue
seene before, riding in the Thames neere London. He was no sooner come to
Don Pedro de Leiua the Spanish general, but he was sent off againe, and
returned to the English Admirall, saying that the pleasure of the Generall
was this, that either their Captaines, Masters and Pursers should come to
him with speed, or else hee would set vpon them, and either take them or
sinke them. The reply was made by M. Wilkinson aforesaid, that not a man
should come to him; and for the bragge and threat of Don Pedro, it was not
that Spanish brauado that should make them yeeld a iot to their hinderance,
but they were as ready to make resistance, as he to offer an iniurie.
Whereupon Cauallero the messenger left bragging, and began to persuade them
in quiet sort and with many wordes, but all his labour was to no purpose,
and as his threat did nothing terrifie them, so his perswasion did nothing
mooue them to doe that which hee required. At the last he intreated to haue
the Marchant of the Admirall caried by him as a messenger to the Generall,
so that he might be satisfied, and assured of their mindes by one of their
owne company. But M. Wilkinson would agree to no such thing, although
Richard Rowit the marchant himselfe seemed willing to bee imployed in that
message, and laboured by reasonable perswasions to induce M. Wilkinson to
graunt it, as hoping to be an occasion by his presence and discreet
answeres to satisfie the Generall, and thereby to saue the effusion of
Christian blood, if it should grow to a battel. And he seemed so much the
more willing to be sent, by how much deeper the othes and protestations of
this Cauallero were, that he would (as hee was a true knight and a
souldier) deliuer him backe againe in safetie to his company. Albeit, M.
Wilkinson, which by his long experience had receiued sufficient triall of
Spanish inconsistencie and periurie, wished him in no case to put his life
and libertie in hazard vpon a Spaniards othe. But at last, vpon much
intreatie, he yeelded to let him go to the General, thinking in deed, that
good speeches and answeres of reason would haue contented him, whereas
otherwise refusall to do so, might peraduenture haue prouoked the more
discontentment.

M. Rowit therefore passing to the Spanish Generall, the rest of the Gallies
hauing espied him, thought in deed that the English were rather determined
to yeelde, then to fight, and therefore came flocking about the frigat,
euery man crying out, Que nueuas, que nueuas, Haue these Englishmen
yeelded? the frigate answered, Not so, they neither haue nor purpose to
yeeld, onely they haue sent a man of their company to speake with our
Generall: and being come to the Gallie wherein he was, he shewed himselfe
to M. Rowit in his armour, his guard of souldiers attending vpon him in
armour also, and began to speake very proudly in this sort: Thou
Englishman, from whence is your fleete, why stand ye aloofe off, knowe ye
not your duetie to the Catholique King, whose person I here represent?
Where are your billes of lading, your letters, pasports, and the chiefe of
your men? Thinke ye my attendance in these seas to be in vaine, or my
person to no purpose? Let al these things be done out of hand as I command,
vpon paine of my further displeasure and the spoyle of you all: These
wordes of the Spanish Generall were not so outragiously pronounced as they
were mildly answered by M. Rowit, who tolde him that they were al
Merchantmen, vsing trafique in honest sort, and seeking to passe quietly,
if they were not vrged further then reason. As for the king of Spaine, he
thought (for his part) that there was amitie betwixt him and his Souereigne
the Queene of England, so that neither he nor his officers should goe about
to offer any such injurie to English Marchants, who as they were farre from
giuing offence to any man, so they would be loath to take an abuse at the
handes of any, or sit downe to their losse, where their abilitie was able
to make defence. And as, touching his commandement aforesaide, for the
acknowledging of duetie, in such particular sort, he told him, that were
there was no duetie owing, there none should be performed, assuring him
that the whole company and shippes in generall stood resolutely vpon the
negatiue, and would not yeeld to any such vnreasonable demaund, joyned with
such imperious and absolute maner of commanding. Why then, said he, if they
wil neither come to yeeld, nor shew obedience to me in the name of any
king, I wil either sinke them or bring them to harbor, and so tell them
from me. With that the frigat came away with M. Rowit, and brought him
aboord the English Admiral againe according to promise: who was no sooner
entred in, but by and by defiance was sounded on both sides: the Spaniards
hewed off the noses of the Gallies, that nothing might hinder the leuell of
the shot, and the English on the other side courageously prepared
themselues to the combat, euery man according to his roome, bent to
performe his office with alacritie and diligence. In the meane time a
Cannon was discharged from the Admirall of the gallies, which being the
onset of the fight, was presently answered by the English Admirall with a
Culuering; so the skirmish began, and grew hot and terrible, there was no
powder nor shot spared: ech English ship matched it selfe in good order
against two Spanish Gallies, besides the inequalitie of the frigats on the
Spaniards side: and although our men performed their parts with singular
valure according to their strength, insomuch that the enemie as amased
therewith would oftentimes pause and stay, and consult what was best to be
done, yet they ceased not in the midst of their businesse to make prayer to
Almighty God the reuenger of al euils, and the giuer of victories, that it
would please him to assist them in that good quarell of theirs, in
defending themselues against so proud a tyrant, to teach their handes to
warre, and their fingers to fight, that the glory of the victory might
redound to his Name, and to the honor of true Religion which the insolent
enemie sought so much to ouerthrowe. Contrarily, the foolish Spaniardes
cried out according to their maner, not to God, but to our Lady (as they
terme the virgin Mary) saying O Lady helpe, O blessed Lady giue vs the
victory, and the honour thereof shalbe thine. Thus with blowes and prayers
on both sides the fight continued furious and sharpe, and doubtfull a long
time to which part the victorie would incline: til at the last the Admiral
of the Gallies of Sicilie began to warpe from the fight, and to holde vp
her side for feare of sinking, and after her went also two others in like
case, whom al the sort of them inclosed, labouring by all their meanes to
keep them aboue water, being ready by the force of English shot which they
had receiued to perish in the seas: and what slaughter was done among the
Spaniards themselues, the English were vncertaine, but by a probable
coniecture apparant afar off, they supposed their losse was so great that
they wanted men to continue the charging of their pieces: [Sidenote: A
fight of fiue houres.] whereupon with shame and dishonor, after 5. houres
spent in the battell, they withdrew themselues: and the English contented
in respect of their deepe lading, rather to continue their voyage then to
follow the chase, ceased from further blowes: with the losse onely of two
men slaine amongst them all, and another hurt in his arme, whom M.
Wilkinson with his good words and friendly promises did so comfort, that he
nothing esteemed the smart of his wound in respect of the honour of the
victory, and the shameful repulse of the enemy.

Thus with duetiful thankes to the mercy of God for his gracious assistance
in that danger, the English ships proceeded in their Nauigation, and
comming as high as Alger, a port towne vpon the coast of Barbary, they fell
with it, of purpose to refresh themselues after their wearinesse, and to
take in such supply of fresh water and victuals, as they needed: they were
no sooner entred into the port, but immediatly the king thereof sent a
messenger to the ships to knowe what they were, with which messenger the
chiefe master of ech shippe repaired to the king, and acquainted him not
onely with the state of their ships in respect of marchandize, but with the
late fight which they had passed with the Spanish Gallies, reporting euery
particular circumstance in word as it fell out in action: whereof the said
king shewed himselfe marueilous glad, interteining them in the best sort,
and promising abundant reliefe of all their wants, making generall
proclamation in the city vpon paine of death, that no man of what degree or
state soeuer he were, should presume either to hinder them in their
affaires, or to offer them any maner of inurie in body or goods. By vertue
whereof they dispatched al things in excellent good sort, with al fauor and
peaceablenesse: only such prisoners and captiues of the Spaniards as were
in the Citie, seeing the good vsage which they receiued, and hearing also
what seruice they had performed against the foresaide Gallies, grudged
exceedingly against them, and sought as much as they could to practise some
mischiefe against them: and one amongst the rest seeing an Englishman alone
in a certaine lane of the Citie, came vpon him suddenly, and with his knife
thrust him in the side, yet made no such great wound, but that it was
easily recouered. The English company hearing of it, acquainted the king
with the fact, who immediatly sent both for the party that had receiued the
wound and the offender also, and caused an executioner in the presence of
himselfe and the English, to chastise the slaue euen to death, which was
performed to the ende that no man should presume to commit the like part,
or to doe any thing in contempt of his royal commandement.

The English hauing receiued this good justice at the kings hands, and al
other things that they wanted, or could craue for the furnishing of their
shippes; tooke their leaue of him, and of the rest of their friends, that
were resident in Alger, and put out to Sea, looking to meete with the
second army of the Spanish king, which waited for them about the month of
the Straights of Gibraltar, which they were of necessitie to passe. But
comming neere to the said Straight, it pleased God to raise at that instant
a very darke and mistie fogge, so that one ship could not discerne another,
if it were 40. paces off: by meanes whereof; together with the notable
faire Easterne winds that then blewe most fit for their course, they passed
with great speed through the Straight, and might haue passed with that good
gale, had there bene 500. Gallies to withstand them, and the aire neuer so
cleare for euery ship to be seene. [Sidenote: The second Spanish fleete
lying in watie for the English.] But yet the Spanish Gallies had a sight of
them when they, were come within 3. English miles of the towne, and made
after them in all Pøssible haste, and although they saw that they were
farre out of their reach, yet in a vaine fury and foolish pride, they shot
off their Ordinance, and made a stirre in the Sea as if they had bene in
the midst of them, which vanitie of theirs ministred to our men notable
matter of pleasure and mirth, seeing men to fight with shadowes, and to
take so great paines to so small purpose.

But thus it pleased God to deride, and delude all the forces of that proud
Spanish king, which, he had prouided of purpose to distressethe English,
who notwithstanding passed through both his Armies, in the one, little
hurt; and in the other nothing touched, to the glory of his immortall Name,
the honour of our Prince and Countrey, and the just commendation of ech
mans seruice performed in that voyage.

END OF VOL. VII.



INDICES TO VOLS. V., VI., & VII.

INDICES.

_Where the same Document is given in Latin and English, the reference is to
the English Version._

_N.B._--The large print indicates that the _whole_ section refers to the
subject mentioned.

VOL. V.

AA (Sir J. de)
ABRAHAM BASSA
ACON or ACRE
  --Taken
  --History
ADAMS (T)
ADRIANOPLE
AGREEMENT, BETWEEN AMBASSADORS OF ENGLAND AND PRUSSIA, CONFIRMED BY RICHARD
II
  --BETWEEN HENRY IV. AND CONRAD DE IUNGINGEN
  --BETWEEN HENRY IV. AND HANS TOWNS
  --BETWEEN HENRY IV. AND ULRICUS DE IUNGINGEN
  --BETWEEN RICHARD I. AND PRINCE OF ACRE
  --BETWEEN EDWARD IV. AND IOHN II. OF PORTUGAL
ALBERT, King of Sweden
ALBERT, Marquis of Brandenburg
  --Biographical sketch
ALEPPO, A COMMANDMENT FOR
ALEXANDRIA, A COMMANDMENT TO THE CADI OF
  --A COMMANDMENT TO THE BASSA OF
ALI BASSA, LETTER FROM QUEEN ELIZABETH
ALWEY (R.)
AMSTERDAM
ANDREW (S.)
APPIAN, quoted
ARTHUR, Duke of Brittany
ASCALON
AUCHER (Sir A.)
AUCHER (ship)
AUSTELL (Henry), HIS VOYAGE OVERLAND TO CONSTANTINOPLE
  --HIS SAFE CONDUCT FROM THE SULTAN
AUSTEN (J.)
AUSTRIA

BABA (cape)
BAIRAM (feast of)
BAKER (M.)
BAKER (P.) commits disorders in the Levant
BAKER (R.) HIS FIRST VOYAGE TO GUINEA
  --HIS SECOND VOYAGE
BALDWIN, Emperor of Constantinople
BALIABADRAM, A COMMANDMENT FOR
BARANGI or VARANGI
BARRET (A.)
BARRET (W.)
BART (H.)
BARTENSTEIN (castle), built
BEDINGHAM (R,)
BEFFART (C., of Triers)
BELGRADE, taken by the Turks
BELYETERE (E.)
BERENGARIA (Queen)
BETTS (W.)
BLACK SEA
BODENHAM (R.), HIS VOYAGE TO CANDIA AND CHIO
BOULOGNE
BOURGH (Sir John)
  --His death
BOWYER (Sir W.)
BRAMPTON (W.)
BRANDEBURG
BRANDON (J.)
BREMEN
BRENNUS
BRESLAU
BRILL
BRISTOL
BRITOMAR
BRITONS, IN ITALY AND GREECE
BROOKE (J.)
BROWNE (J), mentioned
BRUGES
BRUNDUSIUM
BRUNE (H.)
BRUNSBURG (castle), built
BRUNSWICK
BUSS OF ZEALAND (ship), taken
BUSSSHIP (ship), taken

CABRERA or CAPRERA (island)
CADIZ
CALAIS
CAMDEN (W.), HIS. ACCOUNT OF THE BRITONS IN ITALY AND GREECE
  --quoted
CAMPEN
CAMPION (G.), HIS DISCOURSE OF THE TRADE OF CHIO
CANDIA
CARUMUSALINI
CASIMIR. King of Poland, wages war against Knights of Jerusalem
  --Defeated
  --Obtains Marienburg by treason
  --Concludes peace
CASTELIN (E.)
CAT (G.)
CAUMBRIGGE (R.)
CEPHALONIA
CERIGO (island)
CHAMBERLAIN (E.)
CHAMPION (meaning of)
CHANCELLOR (Richard)
CHARLES V. (of Spain), knights Peter Read
  --mentioned
CHARTER GRANTED BY SULTAN TO ENGLISH
  --GRANTED BY QUEEN ELIZABETH TO THE LEVANT COMPANY
  --FROM PETER OF MOLDAVIA
CHESTER (Sir W.)
CHIO
  --A DISCOURSE OF ITS TRADE
  --VOYAGE OF BODENHAM
  --A COMMANDMENT FOR
CHRISTMIMMEL built
CLAIRVAUX (abbey of)
CLEMENTS (J.), sent to Levant
CLEYE
COG (ship), seized
COLCHESTER
COLE (P.)
COLEN, or COLOGNE
CONRAD, Duke of Massovia
CONRADUS LANDGRAVIUS
CONSTANTINE THE GREAT
  --HIS TRAVELS
CONSTANTINOPLE
COOTE (J.)
CORNWAILE (T.)
COURTBUTTRESSOW
COVENTRY, Parliament held at
COWES
CRACOW
CRETE (island)
CROSSEBAIRE (N.)
CRUTZBURG (castle), built
CURTIS (T.)
CYPRUS
  --DESCRIBED
  --History

DANTZIC
DANUBE
DASSELE (A. de)
DAWE (J.)
DELFT
DIERE (J.)
DOCKWRAY (Thomas)
DOGGER-SHIP, taken
DORDRECHT
DORIA (Juanette)
DORIA (Prince Pedro)
DOVER
DRAVER (M.)
DUCKET (I.)
DURHAM (S.)

EGYPT, A COMMANDMENT FOR
EINSLEBEN
ELBE (river)
ELBING
ELIZABETH (Queen)
  --LETTERS FROM MURAD KHAN
  --LETTERS TO MURAD KHAN
  --GRANTS CHARTER TO LEVANT COMPANY
  --HER COMMISSION TO WILLIAM HAREBORNE TO BE AMBASSADOR IN TURKEY
  --LETTER TO ALI BASSA
  --LETTER FROM MUSTAPHA CHAUS
  --LETTER FROM SINAN BASSA
  --LETTER FROM THE SULTANA
ELLERICHSHAUSEN (C. ab)
ELLERICHSHAUSEN (L. ab)
EMDEN
ENGLISHMEN SENT TO CONSTANTINOPLE
ERIGENA (John), HIS TRAVELS
ESTURMY (W.), his account of his embassy to Prussia
  --LETTER FROM WERNERUS DE TETTINGEN
EUSEBIUS, quoted
EUTROPIUS, quoted
EYMS (W.)

FAMAGUSTA, SIEGE OF
FARDEL (meaning of)
FEN (H. ap)
FERMENIA or THERMIA (island)
FEUCHTUVANG (C. a)
FEUCHTUVANG (S. a)
FIELD (R.)
FINISTERRE (cape)
FLISPE (S.)
FLORUS, quoted
FORMENTERA (island)
FORREST (G.)
FOSTER (T.), HIS PASSPORT FROM EARL OF LEICESTER
FOWLER (T.)
FRIDAY (ship), taken
FROISSART, HIS ACCOUNT OF KING LYON'S VISIT TO ENGLAND
FUBBORNE (W.)

GABARDS
GAGE, (Sir E.)
GAGE (G.)
GALIPOLI (straits of)
GALITA (island)
GARRARD (Sir W.)
GARRET (William)
GENOA
GIBRALTAR
GLEIDELL (J.)
GODEZERE (ship), taken by Hans Towns
GODFREY, Earl of Hohenloe
GODFREY (J.)
GOLDESMITH (C.)
GONSON (R.)
GONSON (W.)
GONSTON (B.)
GOODWINE (J.)
GOURNEY (M.), VOYAGE TO ALGIERS
GRAA (T.), Ambassador of England
GRAVESEND
GRAY (John)
GRAY (R.)
GREEK FIRE
GRESHAM (J.)
GRINDALL, Archbishop of Canterbury
GRIPESWOLD

HACHENBERG (U.) Ambassador of Prussia
HAGUE (the)
HAKLUYT (R.), HIS ACCOUNT OF THE ANCIENT TRADE TO THE LEVANT
  --LIST OF GOODS TO BE OBTAINED IN TURKEY
  --MEMORANDUM OF WORK TO BE DONE IN TURKEY
HALBERSTADT
HAMBURG
HANS TOWNS
  --AGREEMENT WITH HENRY IV.
  --THEIR GRIEVANCES AGAINST ENGLAND
HAREBORNE (William), obtains safe conduct
  --His first voyage
  --COMMISSION TO BE AMBASSADOR
  --VOYAGE IN THE SUSAN
  --LETTER TO MUSTAPHA CHAUS
  --HIS PETITION TO THE VICEROY OF MOREA
  --HIS RETURN TO ENGLAND
HARWICH
HAWKIN DERLIN (ship), plundered
HAWKINS (Sir John)
HAWKWOOD (J.), HIS VICTORIES IN ITALY
HEILSBURG (castle), built
HEITH (W.)
HELDRINGEN (H. ab)
HELENA, HER TRAVELS
  --mentioned
HELENA (ship), taken
HENRY (Emperor), his letter to Philip of France
HENRY, Earl of Plaen
HENRY IV., HIS LETTERS TO CONRAD DE IUNGINGEN
  --THEIR AGREEMENT
  --AGREEMENT WITH HANS TOWNS
  --LETTER TO ULRICUS DE IUNGINGEN
  --LETTERS FROM ULRICUS DE IUNGINGEN
  --AGREEMENT WITH ULRICUS DE IUNGINGEN
HENRY VIII., HIS LETTER TO JOHN OF PORTUGAL
HERSTON (P.)
HICKMAN (A.)
HOLINSHED, HIS ACCOUNT OF THE EMBASSY FROM FERDINANDO TO HENRY VIII
HOLSTOCKE (W.)
HOLY CROSS (ship), voyage to Candia
HOOD (R.)
HORUSE (R.)
HOVEDEN (Roger de), bibliography
HUGHSON (J.)
HULL
HUNT (T.)

IENA
INNSBRUCK
IPSWICH
ISAAC COMNENUS
ISABEL (ship), taken
IUNGINGEN (C. a), sends an embassy to Richard II.
  --HIS LETTERS TO RICHARD II
  --COMPOSITION BETWEEN HIM AND ENGLAND
  --RECEIVES LETTERS FROM HENRY IV
  --HIS LETTERS TO HENRY IV
  --THEIR AGREEMENT
IUNGINGEN (Ulricus a)
  --LETTER FROM HENRY IV
  --LETTER TO HENRY IV
  --AGREEMENT WITH HENRY IV

JAROSLAW
JASSY or YAS
JENKINSON (A.)
JERUSALEM; voyage of Richard I, to
JERUSALEM (Knights of), CATALOGUE OF MASTERS
  --Remove to Ptolemais
  --Join the Dutch Knights in Prussia
  --First war against Prussian infidels
  --Second war against Prussia
  --Prussians renounce Christianity
  --Third war against Prussia
  --Lose Acon
  --Return to France
  --Remove to Marienburg
  --Defeated
  --Battle against Wladislaus
  --Prussians rebel against the Knights
  --Apply to Casimir, King of Poland
  --Commanded by Emperor Frederick to return to obedience
  --Civil war
  --Casimir defeated by the Knights
  --Marienburg betrayed to Casimir
  --Peace concluded
  --Make a treaty with Richard II
  --THEIR COMPOSITION WITH ENGLAND IN 1403
  --THEIR AGREEMENT WITH HENRY IV. IN 1405
JOHN (of Portugal), letter from Henry VIII
JOHN BAPTIST (ship)
JOHN COMNENUS
JOPPA
JUSTINIAN

KELHAM, his Norman Dictionary quoted
KERPEN (Otto, of)
KINGTON (J.), his account of his embassy to Prussia
KINSTUT, King of Lithuania
  --Escape from prison
KNAPPENRODT (W. A.)
KRANTZIUS (A.), HIS ACCOUNT OF THE BURNING OF NORBERN
KUCHENMEISTER (M.)
KUNIGSBERG founded

LAKENSWITHER (H.)
LAKINGLISH (J.)
LAMBERT (F.)
LAMBOLT (H.)
LANGSOUND
LEGHORN
LEICESTER, Earl of
  --HIS PASSPORT TO THOMAS FOSTER
LEMAN (R.)
LEO AFRICANUS, quoted
LEOPOLD, Duke of Austria, takes Richard I. prisoner
  --Sells him to Emperor
LESSON (O.)
LETIS (J.)
LEVANT, HAKLUYT'S ACCOUNT OF THE ANCIENT TRADE TO
  --THE REVIVING OF THE TRADE TO THE
LEVANT COMPANY, CHARTER FROM MURAD KHAN
  --FROM QUEEN ELIZABETH
LIBER-TRIADUM, quoted
LIGATE (J.)
LINCOLN (Bishop of), His letters to Conrad de Iungingen
LITTLE, (William), his works
LIVONIA
LOCKE (M.)
LOCKE (W.)
LODGE (Sir T.)
LONDON
LUBECK
LUDOLPHUS, Duke of Brunswick
LUDOLPHUS, surnamed King
LUTHER, born at Einsleben
LYDERPOLE (T.)
LYMASOL or LYMSZEN
LYNN
LYON, King of Armenia, HIS VOYAGE TO ENGLAND
LYONS

MAGDEBURG
MAIN (river)
MALAGA
MALIM (W.), HIS ACCOUNT OF THE SIEGE OF FAMAGUSTA
MALLORCA (island)
MALMESBURY (abbey)
MALMESBURY (W. of), quoted
MALTA
MANUCHIO, HIS SAFE CONDUCT FROM THE SULTAN
MAONE
MARGARET, Queen of Denmark
MARGARET (ship), taken
MARIEBURG or MARIENBURG
  --Taken by treason
MARLIN (ship)
MARMORA
MARPURG
MARSEILLES
MARTINE A GOLIN, His wonderful stratagem
MARTININGO (G.)
MATAPAN (cape)
MATTHEW GONSON (ship), VOYAGE TO CANDIA
  --SECOND VOYAGE
  --Mentioned
MAUSTROND
MEIDENBURG (Bulgrave of)
MERALL (Sir A. de), turns traitor
MERSH (T.)
MESSINA
  --Taken by the English
MEYER (H.)
MICHAEL (ship), taken
MICONE (island)
MIDDEEBURG
MILO (island)
MINION (ship)
MITYLENE (island)
  --A COMMANDMENT TO
MORAVIA
MOTTE (T.)
MOYLE, meaning of
MUNDE (W.)
MUNSTER, his history of the Dutch Knights of Jerusalem
MURAD KHAN, HIS LETTERS TO QUEEN ELIZABETH
  --HIS LETTERS FROM QUEEN ELIZABETH
  --GRANTS CHARTER TO LEVANT COMPANY
MUSTAPHA CHAUS, HIS LETTER TO QUEEN ELIZABETH
  --LETTER FROM W. HAREBORNE

NARES, quoted
NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE
NICHOLAS (ship), taken
NIESTER (river)
NISSA
NOIE (W.)
NORBERN, BURNT BY ROBBERS FROM THE HANS TOWNS
NOVIBAZAR
NORWICH
NUREMBERG

ODOACER, King of Bohemia
OLMUDTZ
ORSELE (W. ab.)
ORWEL
OSBORNE (Sir E.), revives the trade to the Levant
  --mentioned
OSTERNA (Boppo ab)
OSTRIGE (W.)
OTTO, Marquis of Brandeburg
OXNEY (W.)

PALANDRIE
PALOS (cape)
PARIS (Matthew), quoted
PARSONS (R.)
PASSARO (cape)
PATRASSO--A COMMANDMENT TO
PEIRS (T.)
PERCY RELIQUES, quoted
PETER, Vayvode of Moldavia
  --HIS CHARTER TO ENGLISH MERCHANTS
PETER (ship), taken
PHILIP (of France), his alliance with Richard I
  --Returns to France
  --LETTER FROM THE EMPEROR HENRY
PHILIPPOPOLI
PICKET (J.)
PIKERON (J.)
PLOKET (T.)
PLUMER (J.)
PLUMMER (T.)
PLYMOUTH
PONTE (N. de), death of
PORTO DE SAN PEDRO
POUND (W.)
PREST (J.)
PRIMROSE (ship)
PRIOUR (J.)
PROCOPIUS
PRUSSIA, privileges of English merchants in
  --Esturmy and Kington sent as ambassadors
PRUSSIA (knights of), see Jerusalem (kinghts of)
PURSER (A.)

RACKING, meaning of word
RAGUSA
RATCLIFFE (J.)
READ (Peter), HIS EPITAPH
REDEN (castle), built
RESIL (castle), built
REUSS (H.)
REVELL (R.)
RHODES
  --SIEGE AND TAKING OF
  --Blockaded
  --Provisioned
  --A brigantine sent to Candia
  --General muster
  --Letter from the Great Turk
  --The Turks land on the Isle of Lango
  --Besieged
  --Assisted by Gabriel Martiningo
  --Is taken
  --A COMMANDMENT TO
RHONE (river)
RICHARD I., HIS VOYAGE INTO ASIA
  --Alliance with Philip of France
  --Taken prisoner by Duke of Austria
  --EPITAPHS
RICHARD II., receives ambassadors from Conrad de Zolner
RICHTENBERG, (H. a)
RIGWEYS (R.)
ROBINES (R.)
RODE (A.)
ROME
RONDELL (L)
ROOS (William, Lord of)
  --His letters to Conrad de Iungingen
ROSTOCK
ROTTERDAM
RUMNIE (J.)
RUSSDORFF (P. a)
RUSSE (L. van)

SAFFRON WALDON
ST. JOHN (knights of), go to Cyprus and Rhodes
ST. VINCENT (cape)
SALT
SALTZA.(H. de)
SAMBORUS, son of Suandepolcus
SANDWICH
SAUGERSHUSEN (H. de)
SANTA MARIA (cape)
SANTA SOPHIA (Mosque of)
SAPIENTIA (island)
SARDINIA
SAVIOUR (ship)
SCHIEDAM
SCOF (E.)
SCUVENDEN (B. a)
SEBURGH (J.)
SELAW
SHERWOOD (W.)
SHIPPER (ship), plundered
SIBEL (W.), Ambassador of England
SIGISMUND (Emperor), assists the Knights of Jerusalem
SILISDEN (W.)
SINAN BASSA, HIS LETTER TO QUEEN ELIZABETH
SITHENCE (meaning) of
SMITH (T.)
SNYCOP (J.)
SOPHIA or SOFIA
SOUTHAMPTON
SPENSER, quoted
STAPER (R.), revives trade to Levant
  --mentioned
STARKEY (J.)
STETTIN
STEYHARD (N.)
STOCKET (N.), Ambassador of England
STRABO, quoted
STRALSSUND
STURMY. See _Esturmy_
SUANDEPOLCUS, Duke of Pomerania
SULTANA (of Turkey), LETTER TO QUEEN ELIZABETH
SUSAN (ship), Her voyage to Constantinople

TAMASSUS. See _Famagusta_
TANCRED, King of Sicily
TARIFFA
TELENSIN or FLEMCEN
TENEDOS (island)
TERRY (W.)
TETTINGEN (W. de), LETTER TO SIR W. ESTURMY
THEODORICUS, Earl of Aldenborg
THESTER (T.)
TIEFLEN (J. a)
TILBURY
TOBACCO, first introduced
TOOTOO, use of reduplication
TOPCLIFFE (J.)
TREATY. See _Agreement_
TRENT
TREVESO
TRINITY (ship), seized
TRINITY FITZWILLIAMS (ship)
TRUCHSES (M.)
TUK (L.)
TUNIS, taken by Charles V
TURKEY, THE TRADE WITH
TUSIMER (H. a)
TUTTEBURIE. (J.)
TYRE

URE (meaning of)

VARNA
VENICE
VILLIERS (Philip de), Grand Master of Rhodes
VIRUMNIUS, quoted
VISTULA
VITALIANS
VITOLDUS. capt. of Tartars
VLADISLAUS, fights the Knights of Jerusalem

WALCHERN island
WALENROD (C.)
WALKER, meaning of old word
WALPODE (S.), Ambassador of Prussia
WALPOT (H. of)
WALRODE (C. de), Ambassador of Prussia
WALSINGHAM, quoted
WALTERS (J.)
WALTHAM
WARTESLAUS, son of Suandepolcus
WATERDEN (T.)
WESENHAM (J.)
WEST-STOWE
WIGHT (J.), sent to the Levant
WIGHT (R.)
WILFORD (N.)
WILFORD (W.)
WILLIAM (The Pilgrim), his travels
WILLIAMSON (J.), HIS VOVAGE TO CANDIA
WINTER (W.)
WISEDOME (J.)
WISMER
WISSENBURG (Castle), built
WITTENBURG
WIVETON
WOOD, pilot
WYMAN (H,)

YARMOUTH
YARMOUTH (Isle of Wight)
YLGENBURG, built
YORK

ZANTE
ZARA
ZEMBRA
ZEPISWICH.  See _Ipswich._
ZOLNER (C. of Rotenstein), sends ambassadors to Richard II.
  --THEIR SPEECH
ZUYUERSEE



VOL. VI

ABYDOS, a city of Egypt
ACRIDOPHAGI, live on locusts
  --Their extraordinary death
ADRIMACHIDE, their manners
AFRICA, DESCRIBED
  --Its limits
  --Its original inhabitants
  --Agricultural produce
  --Its Fauna
  --Its state in 1659
AGATHIRSIANS, their manners
ALEXANDER, mentioned
ALEXANDRIA, a city of Egypt
ALFRED, sends alms to India
ALKAIR. See _Cairo_
ALKORAN. See _Koran_
ALLEGONA, a town of Grand Canary, taken and sacked
ALLEGRANIA (island)
ALURED, bishop of Worcester, his voyage to Constantinople and Syria
AMAZONS, their manners
AMERICA, an island
APHRES, their mariners
APSLEY (W.), Bookseller
ARABIA, its limits
  --Manners of the inhabitants
  --Their marriage customs
  --Produce
  --Contracts
  --Spices
  --Serpents
  --Monarchs
  --Precious metals
  --Arms
  --First adopts Mahometanism
ARAXIS (river)
ARGIPPIANS, their manners
ARITONE, quoted
ARMENIANS, mentioned
ARUNDEL (Earl of), Dedication of Fardel of Facions to
ASIA, its limits
  --DESCRIBED
  --Derivation of the name
ASTROLOGY in Egypt
ASSYRIA, DESCRIBED
  --Boundaries
  --Produce
  --Boats
  --Dress
  --Marriage customs
  --Medicine
  --Burial customs
  --Magi or Chaldei
ATLANTES, their manners
AXIAMA

BABYLON, a city-of Egypt
BABYLONIA. See _Assyria._
BAILEY (N.) quoted
BALE, quoted
BALLARD (W.), in service of Nicolas Thorne
BEROALD (P.), quoted
BEROSUS, quoted
BETANCOURT (J.), obtains the title of King of the Canaries
BIBLIOTHECA CURIOSA, quoted
BLACKNESS
BLANCO (cape)
BLOMME (de)
BOCCHORIS, the Pharaoh of Moses
BOCCHORIDES, a lawgiver of Egypt
BOEMUS (J.), mentioned
BONA ESPERANCA (cape)
BORROWING on parents' corpse
BRACAMONT (R. de), Admiral of France, mentioned
BRILL
BROKAGE (meaning of)
BUDINES, their manners
BURROUGHS, mentioned
BYNON (Captain)

CAIRO, a city of Egypt
CALAIS
CALIFORNIA
CALLACUT (cape)
CAMPION (Caspar), his letters to Lock and Winter
CANARIA. See _Grand Canary._
CANARY ISLANDS, THE ANCIENT TRADE OF THE ENGLISH TO
  --Exports from
  --DESCRIBED BY THOMAS NICOLS
  --Ancient inhabitants
  --CONQUEST OF
  --mentioned
CANARY WINE
CANNIBALISM
CANTON
CASELIN (E.), mentioned
CASPII, mentioned
CATER (Captain)
CAVE-DWELLINGS, in Grand Canary
CECIL (Sir Robert), Dedication to
CESARIAN (island)
CHAIRUS. See _Cairo_
CHALDEI. See _Assyria_
CHILI
CHRISTIANITY, ITS HISTORY
CHRISTOPHER (The), Sails for Santa Cruz
CHURCH, HISTORY AND DOCTRINES OF THE
CLAUDIANS, not circumcised
CLOINYNG (meaning of)
CLOPER (W. D.)
CLUVERIUS, his description of Africa
COLUMBUS (Christopher), mentioned
CONQUEST of the Grand Canaries
CRANMER, his answer to Bishop Gardiner, quoted
CREMATION
CYNECI, their manners
CYNNAMI, their manners
CYRUS, mentioned

DALIDAE, a city of Panchaia
DAMASCUS, attacked by Mahomet
DAMIETTA (siege of), mentioned
DANIEL (S.), quoted
DARIEN (isthmus of)
DARIUS, mentioned
DARTMOUTH
DAVIS (J.), HIS WORLDES HYDROGRAPHICAL DESCRIPTION
  --His preface
  --His first voyage
  --His second voyage
  --His third voyage
  --His Seamen's Secreats
DAWSON (T.), printer
DELIVER, meaning of word
DERBY (Earl of), his journey
DERRICKSON (Captain), killed
DESERT, or DESERTAS
DESOLATION (coast)
DIODORUS SICULUS, quoted
DIOSPOLIS
DOEST (P. Van)
DOG-HEADED MEN
DOVER
DRAKE (Sir Francis)
DRAYTON, his Polyolbion quoted

EARTH (THE DIVISIONS AND LIMITS OF THE)
EDGAR (Prince), his voyage
EDWARD (Prince), mentioned
EGYPT, DESCRIBED
  --Manners of the inhabitants
  --Their double alphabet
  --Dress
  --Religion
  --Food
  --Memento Mori
  --Learning
  --Monarch
  --Funeral ceremonies
  --Political divisions
  --Finance
  --Astrology
  --Divisions into classes
  --Laws
  --Marriage customs
  --Education
  --Medicine
  --Sacred Animals
  --Curious borrowing transactions
ESPECIO (E. de)
ESSENES or ESSEIS, their peculiarities
ETHIOPIA, DESCRIBED
  --ITS INHABITANTS
  --Government
  --Dress
  --Animals
  --Agricultural produce
  --Precious stones
  --Burial
  --Religion
  --Election of King
  --Clergy
  --Army
  --Laws
  --Punishment of adultery
  --Banquets
EXACONTHALITUS, a rare stone
EXETER

FAMAGUSTA, invaded by Mustapha Basha
FARDLE OF FACIONS, REPRINTED, Preface
FELLES, meaning of
FERRO. See _Hierro_
FINISTERRE (Cape)
FITCH (Ralph), his voyage to China, mentioned
FITZROY (Oliver), son of King John
FLETCHER, his Purple Island, quoted
FLORENTIUS WIGORNIENSIS, quoted
FLORIDA, discovered
  --Voyages, of Ribault, Laudonniere, and Gourges
  --printed by Hakluyt
FLUSHING, mentioned
FORTEVENTURA, DESCRIBED, mentioned
FOUCHAl. See _Fienchal_
FOXE, quoted
FREDERICK. (Cæsar), mentioned
FROWARD (cape)

GALDER, a city of Grand Canary
GALVANO, HIS ACCOUNT OF MACHAM'S DISCOVERY OF MADEIRA
GAMING forbidden on the Canary Fleet
GARACHICO, a town of Teneriffe
GASCOYNE, his Steel Glass quoted
GEERBRANSTON (J.)
GEORGIANS, mentioned
GHELEINSON (C.)
GIMNOSOPHIST. E
GLANVILLE (R.), Earl of Chester, goes to siege of Damietta
GOLDEN ASS, mentioned
GOMERA, DESCRIBED, THE TAKING OF
GOURGES, his voyage to Florida
GOWBIN, meaning of word
GRACIOSA, mentioned, taken
GRAND CANARY, DESCRIBED
  --Derivation of the name
  --Original inhabitants
  --Principal of the Canary Isles
  --Its produce
  --Its position
  --Visited by the Dutch fleet
  --taken
GREENLAND, visited by Davis
GRIPHONES
GROIN (The)
GUANCHES
GUIA, a city of Grand Canary
GUIDALES, their manners

HAKLUYT (R.), in possession of Thorne's account of the Canaries
HAREBORNE (William), mentioned
HARIOT (Thomas), mentioned
HARLAC, Chief Justice of France, mentioned
HARMAN (Captain)
HAWKINS (Sir John)
HELIOPOLIS, a city of Egypt
HENRY II, his vow
HENRY III, of Castille, mentioned
HERODOTUS, quoted
HESPERA, an island
HEYWOOD (T.), quoted
HICKMAN (A.), mentioned
HIEROGLYPHICS
HIERO, DESCRIBED
HIGINIUS, quoted
HILL (J.), plants a vineyard in Hieros
HOCK-MONDAY, The festival explained
HOLLINSHED, quoted
HUGHES (R.), quoted
HYRACIDA, a city of Panchaia

ICELAND
ICHTHIOPHAGI, a race of fish eaters
IDIOTES, their drink
ILOPHAGI, a tree-inhabiting race
IMAUS (mountain)
INDIA, DESCRIBKD
  --Its boundaries
  --Rivers
  --Climate
  --Produce
  --Fauna
  --Precious stones
  --Its inhabitants long-lived
  --Dress
  --Manners
  --Burial ceremonies
  --Religious ceremonies
  --Castes
  --Laws
  --Fakirs
  --Brahmins
  --Suttee
  --Curious marriage custom
  --Fabulous stories
  --Money
INDIES (West), A BRIEF DECLARATION OF THE ADMIRALS DEPARTING TOWARDS THE
INGULPHUS, abbot of Croiland, his journey
ISSEDONNES, eat the dead

JACOBITES
JAPAN
JENKINSON, mentioned
JOHN, mentioned
JOHN II. of Castille, mentioned
JOHN OF HOLLAND, his travels
JOSEPHUS, quoted, his history of the Jews
JUBA, said to have brought dogs from the Canaries
JUDEA. See _Palestine_

KATHERINE, regent of Castille, mentioned
KLOYER (Captain)
KORAN, given by Mahomet

LAGUNA (lake)
LANCASTER (James), his voyage to the Straits of Malacca
LANCEROT (island), See _Lauzarota_
LAUDONNIERE, his voyage to Florida
LAUZAROTA, DESCRIBED
LAROTAVA, a town of Teneriffe
LE MAIRE, his voyage to the Canaries
LEONARDSON (Captain)
LICOURICELY (meaning of)
LIME
LIRCEI, their manners
LISBON
LOCKE (T.), mentioned
LOPEZ (Francis), mentioned
LUZOM (island)

MACAO, possesses a printing press in 1590
MACES, their manners
MACHAM'S DISCOVERY OF MADEIRA
  --Elopes with an Englishwoman
  --Lands in Machico bay
  --builds a chapel to bury her in
  --Makes a boat and escapes to Africa
  --The story confirmed by modern investigations
MACHICO, a town of Madeira
MACHLIES, their manners
MADEIRA, DISCOVERKD BY MACHAN
  --Derivation of the name
  --DESCRIBKD
  --Its produce
MAGELLAN (straits of)
MAGI. See _Assyria_
MAHOMET, Either Arabian or Persian
  --giveth the Koran
  --Assisted by Sergius
  --His religion
  --Attacks Damascus
MALACCA (cape)
MALIAPOR, burying place of St. Thomas
MALMESBURV (William of), quoted
MAN, HIS ORIGIN
  --False opinions as to
  --Performs woman's work
MANILLA
MARIES, their manners
MAROUINES
MARTYR (Peter), mentioned
MASSAGETES, their habits
  --Eat their old men
MAURICE (Prince)
MECCA
MEDEA, DESCRIBED
  --Its boundaries
  --Manners of the inhabitants
MEGASTHENES, quoted
MEINT (meaning of)
MELA (Pomponius), quoted
MELANCHLENI
MEMPHIS. See _Cairo_
MENDOZA (A. de)
MEOTIS (lake)
MERCHATES
MERMAID (ship), deserts Davis
MEROE, capital of Ethiopia
METRETES
MEXICO
MIDUALL. (Thomas), factor to Nicolas Thome
MOLUCCA (islands)
MOLYNEUX (E.), his map
MONGOLLS, a tribe of Tartary
MONSTERS
MOSES, mentioned
MOY LAMBERT (ship)
MUSTAPHA BASHA, his invasion of Nicosia and Famagusta

NARES, quoted
NASAMONES, their manners
NEPOS (C.), quoted
NESTORIANS
NEURIENS, their manners
NEWBERY (John), his voyage to China
NICOLS (Thomas), HIS DESCRIPTION OF THE CANARY ISLES
NICOSIA invaded by Mustapha Basha
NILE, its overflow
NOBLE, value of a
NORTH CAPE
NORTH EAST PASSAGE, Davis's hydrographical objection against
NORTH WEST PASSAGE, proved to exist
  --Benefits to   be derived by England from
NOVA ZEMLA

OB (river)
OCEAN cannot freeze
OCEANIDA, a city of Pauchira
ONLIVE, a curious form of ALIVE
OPHYOPHAGI, a race of snake eaters
ORANGE (ship)
ORCHELL, a kind of moss used for dyeing, exported from the Canary Isles
OROSIUS, quoted
ORTEGAL (Cape)
OSBORNE (Sir Edward), mentioned

PALESTINE, DESCRIBED
  --Its boundaries
  --Laws of its inhabitants
PALASSA, DESCRIBED
PANCHAIA, DESCRIBED
  --Manners of its inhabitants
PAPYRUS, used for paper
PARTHIA, DESCRIBED
  --Its boundaries
  --History
  --Manners of the inhabitants
PAULUS VENETUS, mentioned
PERSEPOLIS, Capitol of Persia
PERSIA, DESCRIBED
  --Its boundaries
  --Manners of the inhabitants
PERU
PETER IV, king of Aragon
PHARISEES, their peculiarities
PHILIPPINE (islands)
PICO DETEITHE. _See Peak of Teneriffe_
PIJE (Captain)
PLINY, quoted
PLOMPES (meaning of)
PLYMOUTH
POENI, DESCRIBED
  --Eat lice
  --Curious marriage custom
  --Manner of taking an oath
  --Their food
POLE, the place of greatest dignity
POLICRITUS, quoted
POMPEIUS (Trogus), quoted
POPILINIERE, mentioned
POSES (meaning of word)
PRESTER JOHN
PRINTING, in use at Macao in 1590
PTOLEMY, quoted

QUIT (Captain) shipwrecked

RAMUSIUS (J. B.), mentioned
RHODES (siege of)
RIALEIO, a town of Teneriffe
RIBAULT, his voyage to Florida
RICHARD, Earl of Cornwall, mentioned
RICHARD I., his voyage to Palestine
ROBERT (Curthose), his voyage
ROBIN HOOD, mentioned
ROTTERDAM, mentioned
ROVERS (meaning of)
ROWKE (meaning of)
ROXENT (cape)
RYZOPHAGI, their manners

SABA, a city of Arabia
SABELLICUS, quoted
SADDUCEES, their doctrines
ST. AUGUSTIN, quoted
ST. AUGUSTIN (cape)
ST. LUCARS
ST. NICHOLAS
ST. VINCENT (cape)
SALLUST, quoted
SALVAGES (island)
SANDRIDGE
SANDERSON (W.)
  --Publishes a globe
SAN LUCAR, mentioned
SANTA CRUX, chief town in Teneriffe
SANTA MARIA (cape)
SARACENS, a tribe of Arabians
  --Unite with the Turks
SCYTHIA, DESCRIBED
  --History
  --Manners
  --Skinning of Enemies
  --Religion
  --Contracts
  --Burial rites
SEGONIUS (M.), quoted
SERETENES, their habits
SERGIUS (Monk), assists Mahomet
SEVILLE
SHAKESPEARE, quoted
SIGETMUS, Bishop of Sherborne, mentioned
SKULLS, used as drinking cups
SNARL, the derivation
SNYTE, meaning of the word
SOLINUS, quoted
SOOTE, meaning of word
SPACHEFORD, (Thomas), traded with Canary Islands in 1526
SPENCER, His Faerie Queene, quoted
  --His Shepherd's Kalendar, quoted
SPERMATOPHAGI, a vegetarian race
SPICES
STAPER, (R.), mentioned
STEVENS, (Thomas), his travels
STRABO, quoted
SUGAR, manufacture of
SUGAR CANES, planting and growth of
SWIFT, mentioned

TABIN (promontory)
TACITUS (Cornelius), quoted
TALE OF A TUB, an old proverb
TANAIS (river)
TARTARY, DESCRIBED
  --Its boundaries
  --Climate
  --Military organisation
  --History
  --Habits of inhabitants
  --Religion
  --Food
  --Dress
  --Burials
  --Government
TAUROSCHITHIANS, their manners
  --Sacrifice shipwrecked mariners
TAURUS (Mount)
TELDE, a city of Grand Canary
TENERIFFE, visited by the Christopher
  --DESCRIBED
  --Its position
  --mentioned
TENERIFFE (Peak of)
TEXELL
THEBES, a city of Egypt
THEUET (A.), his "new found world Antarctikc" criticized
THORNE (Nicolas), HIS ACCOUNT OF THE TRADE WITH THE CANARIES
THUNESSON (H.)
TISON (Thomas), the West India correspondent of N. Thrne
TRITONIS, a river of Africa
TROGLODITES, their manners
TROUGHES (meaning of)
TUNIS, invaded by Henry, Earl of Derby
TURKEY, DESCRIBED
  --Boundaries
  --Manners of inhabitants
  --Military organisation
  --Dwellings
  --Dress
  --Food and drink
  --Education
  --Laws
  --Relation of the sexes

USHANT (cape)
VASQUEZ (F.)
VAYGATS
VENUS, curious worship of
VERDE (cape)
VERDE (cape), islands of
VIVERO, a town of Spain

WALSINGHAM (Sir F.)
WAN, its meaning
WATREMAN (W.), HIS FARDLE OF FACIONS
WHOTE (meaning of)
WIGHT (Isle of)
WILLOUGHBY (Sir Hugh), mentioned
WOMEN trained to war
  --Perform man's work
  --How to dispose of plain women in marriage
  --Form a bodyguard to kings of India
WOOD (meaning of)
WORLDES HYDROGRGRAPHICAL DESCRIPTION. by J. DAVIS
ZABIQUES, their manners
ZWARTEKEYS, (J. C.), killed



VOL. VII.

ALEXANDER (The Great)
ALGIERS
ALLEN (I), sent to the low countries
ALTEMIRA (Conde de)
ALVA (Duke of)
ALVELANA
ANDRADA (Conde de)
ANGRA
ANJOU (Duke of)
ANTONIO (Don, of Portugal)
ANTONY (W.)
ARK ROYAL (ship)
ARMADA (THE GREAT)
  --Its officers
  --Description of its ships
  --Preparations by the Duke of Parma, furthered by the Pope
  --Treaty of alliance between England and the Netherlands
  --England's preparations
  --Commanders appointed
  --An army collected at Tilbury
  --Sails from Lisbon
  --Enters English channel
  --Advances up channel
  --Anchors before Calais
  --Attacked by fire ships
  --Battle off Gravelines
  --Determines to sail round Scotland
  --Visits Orkneys
  --Shipwrecked on the coast of Ireland
  --Disastrous return to Spain
  --Wrecks in the Hebrides
  --Commemorative coins struck
  --Public rejoicings
ASCENSION (ship)
ASHLEY (Sir A.)
AYDE (ship)
AZORES, A VOYAGE TO THE
  --Mentioned
  --VOYAGE OF GEORGE, EARL OF CUMBERLAND, TO THE
  --FIGHT ABOUT, BETWEEN THE REVENGE AND THE SPANISH FLEET
  --EXPERIENCE AN EARTHQUAKE

BARNAM (Alderman)
BARTON (Captain), wounded
BASSAN (Don A.)
BAYONN (islands of)
BEARES (W)
BELLINGHAM (H)
BENCASAMP (Beys Hamet), Ambassador from Morocco
BERGHEN
BERMUDAS
BEZA (Theo.), his verses to Queen Elizabeth
BIBLIOTHECA CURIOSA
BILBOA
BISHOP AND CLERKS
BLANCO (cape)
BLANKENBERG
BLUNT (Sir C.)
BONAVENTURE (ship)
BOND (M.)
BOROUGH (William)
BORSIS, burnt
BOSWELL (Capt.)
BOVADILLA (F)
BRAGANZA (Duke of)
BRASILL (promontory)
BRET (Colonel)
  --Killed
BRITANDONA (Admiral)
BRODBANKE (J.), taken prisoner
BROMLEY (T.)
BROOKE (Sir H.)
BURLINGS (The)
BURRELL (J.) taken prisoner
BUTLER (Sir Philip)

CADIZ, EXPEDITION OF SIR F. DRAKE AGAINST THE SPANISH FLEET
  --mentioned
  --THE HONORABLE VOYAGE TO
CALAIS
CARELESS (Capt. F)
CAREW (Sir R.)
CAREY (Sir George)
CARRE (Captain), killed
CARSEY (Captain), mortally wounded
CARTHEGENA
CASCAIS
CATHOLICS, sent to Ely and Wisbeach
CAVE (Captain)
  wounded
CAVERLY (Captain)
CECIL (Sir Robert)
CECIL (Sir Thomas)
CENTURION (ship)
  --ITS FIGHT AGAINST 5 SPANISH GALLIES
CHATHAM
CHERUBIM (ship)
CIPRIAN (M.) ambassador from Don Antonio
CLEAR (cape)
CLIFFORD (Sir C.)
COMMISSION OF THE KING OF SPAIN FOR THE GENERAL ARREST OF THE ENGLISH
CONCEPTION (ship)
COOPER (Captain), killed
COOPER (R.)
COOPER (W.)
CORDALL (M.)
CORNISH (W.)
CORUNNA
CORVO (island)
COSTELY (ship)
CRANE (ship)
CRESCENT (ship)
CRISPE (Captain)
CROSSE (Captain), sent to England
  --mentioned
CUMBERLAND (George, Earl of), VOYAGES TO THE AZORES
  --mentioned
DARCIE (E.)
DARIUS, mentioned
DAVIS (John)
DEFIANCE (ship)
DENNY (Sir Edward)
DESMOND (Earl of)
DESMOND (Sir James), hanged
DESMOND (Sir John)
DESMOND (Morice of)
DEVEREUX (Walter)
DOLPHIN (Captain), wounded
  --mentioned
DOLPHIN (ship)
DRAKE (Sir Francis), AN ACCOUNT OF HIS EXPEDITION TO THE BAY OF CADIZ
  --His travels
  --Second in command against Cadiz
  --Mentioned
DRAKE (T.)
DRAKE (ship)
DREADNOUGHT (ship)
DREW (J.)
DUDLEY (H.)
DUDLEY (Sir R.)
DUFFIELD (M.)
DUNKERK

EARTHQUAKE
EDDYSTONE
EDWARD BONAVENTURE (ship)
ELIZABETH (Queen) visits the army at Tilbury
  --Enters London in triumph after defeat of Armada
  --Congratulations to
  --Her prayer
ELIZABETH (ship)
EMDEN
EMMANUEL (Don, of Portugal)
ERINGTON (Captain)
ESSEX (Earl of)
  --Joins the fleet
  --Forms an ambush
  --mentioned
ESCOVEDO, Secretary to King of Spain
EVESHAM (J.), HIS ACCOUNT OF THE VOYAGE TO THE AZORES
EXARAMA DE LOS CAVALLEROS
EXARAMA DE OBISPO

FAIR ISLE
FALCON (ship)
FALMOUTH
FAYAL
  --Taken
FENNER (captain)
  ==rebuked

FIGHT, BETWEEN TEN SHIPS OF LONDON AND TEN SPANISH GALLIES IN THE STRAITS
  OF GIBRALTAR
  --BETWEEN THE CENTURION AND FIVE SPANISH GALLIES
  --Between five ships of London and eleven gallies
FLEMING (captain)
FLICKE (R.), HIS REPORT AS TO SUPPLIES TO LORD THOMAS HOWARD
FLORES (A.)
FLORES (island)
FLORIDA
FLUSHING
FORESIGHT (ship)
FOSTER, captain of the Primrose
FRANCISCO (Don, de Toledo)
FROBISHER (Sir Martin)
FULFORD (captain)
FURTHO (captain)

GALEONS (description of)
GALLIASSES (description of)
GENEBELLI (F.), fortifies the Thames
GEORGE NOBLE (ship)
GIBRALTAR
GODOLPHIN (Sir Francis)
GOLDSMID (E.), his Bibliotheca Curiosa quoted
GRACIOSA (island)
GRAVELINES (battle off)
GRENVILLE (Sir Richard), his fight in the Revenge
  --THE MOST HONORABLE TRAGEDY OF
GROIN (The)
GUZMAN (Don P. E. de)
GWIN (D.), conquers three Spanish ships

HALES (Sir J.)
HAMBURG
HATTON (Sir William)
HAVANA
HAWES (John)
HAWKINS (Sir John)
HELCLIFFE
HERBERT (Lord)
HINDER (captain)
HISPANIOLA, devastated
HOHENLOE (Count)
HONDURAS
HOPE (ship)
HOPKINS, preacher to Earl of Essex
HOWARD (Lord Charles)
  --Appointed Lord High Admiral
  --Mentioned
  --HIS LETTER TO THE DUKE OF MEDINA SIDONIA
HOWARD (Lord Thomas)
HUNTLEY (colonel)

ILA (island)

JACKSON (Captain)
JOHN (Don, of Austria)
JONES (Philip), REPORT OF FIGHT BETWEEN FIVE SHIPS OF LONDON AND ELEVEN
  GALLIES
JUAN (S. de Colorado)

KILLIGREW (W.)
KNIGHTHOOD conferred on Englishmen at Cadiz
LADD (J.)
LANE (Colonel)
LA ROCHELLE
LAS CASAS, his account of the West Indies, quoted
LEICESTER (Earl of)
LEIVA (Don P. de)
LEVISON (Sir R.)
LEWIS (island)
LINSCHOTEN (J. H. van), HIS ACCOUNT OF THE EXPLOITS OF THE ENGLISH AGAINST
  THE SPANIARDS
LION (ship)
LISBON
LISTER (Capt. C)
  --His death
LIZARD (The)
LONDON
  --Plague of
  --mentioned
LONG (H.)
LORES
LUBECK
LUNA (Don Juan de)
LYME
MADRE DE DIOS (ship), taken
MALACCA
MANDRANA (D. de)
MARCHANT ROYAL (ship)
MARGARET (ship)
MARGARET AND JOHN (ship)
MARKESBURY (captain)
MARY ROSE (ship)
MARY SPARKE (ship), voyage to the Azores
MEDINA (J. L. de)
MEDINA SIDONIA (Duke of), commands the Armada
  --LETTER FROM LORD CHARLES HOWARD
MEDKERK (colonel)
MEG (ship)
MENDOZA (A. de)
MERVIN
METERAN (E. van), HIS ACCOUNT OF THE DEFEAT OF THE SPANISH ARMADA
MEXICO (bay of)
MIDDLEBOROUGH
MIDDLETON (captain)
MINION (ship)
MINSHAW (captain)
MONCADO (H. de)
  --Wrecked
MOONE (R.)
MOUNSON (Sir W.)

NETHERLANDS, their treaty with England against Spain
NEWHAVEN
NOMBRE DE DIOS
NORRIS (General)
NORRIS (Sir Edward)
NORRIS (Sir Henry)
NORTH CAPE
NORTON (M.)
NOVA, HISPANIA, note of fleet from
NOWELL (H.)

OQUENDO (M. de)
  --taken
ORANGE (Prince of)
ORCADES. See _Orkney_
ORKNEYS
OSTEND, Mutiny suppressed at
OUSLEY (Captain), Ambassador from General Norris

PALAVICINI (Sir H.)
PARMA (Duke of)
  --His preparations in support of the Armada
PARTRIDGE (M.)
PENICHE
  --Taken
  --Mentioned
PERNAMBUCO
PETUIN (captain)
PHILPOT (captain)
PICO. See _Teneriffe_
PIEW (Captain R.), killed
PIGEON (M.)
PILGRIM (ship)
PIMENTELLI (D.), quoted
PLYMOUTH
PORTLAND
PORT REAL
PORT ST. MARY
PORTSMOUTH
PORTUGAL, VOYAGE TO
POURE (Captain Henry)
PRESTON (Sir Amyas)
PRIMROSE, THE ESCAPE OF THE, FROM BILBAO
PUENTE DE BURGOS

RAGUZA
RAINBOW (ship)
RAINFORD (T.)
RALEIGH (Sir Walter), sends two ships to the Azores
  --mentioned
  --HIS ACCOUNT OF THE FIGHT OF THE REVENGE
RALEIGH (ship)
RAM HEAD
RED ROSE (ship)
REVENGE (ship), HER FIGHT WITH THE SPANISH NAVY
REYMOND (Capt.)
RICALDE (J. M. de)
RICHARD (ship)
ROTTERDAM
ROW (J.)
ROWIT (M.)
ROYDEN (Captain)

ST. GEORGE (island)
ST. HELENA
SAINT JOHN (ship)
ST. MALO
ST. MARIE (island)
ST. MICHAEL'S
ST. VINCENT (cape)
SALOMON (ship)
SAMPSON (Captain A.)
SAMPSON (Captain J.)
SAMUEL (ship)
SAN ANTONIO attacked
SAN DOMINGO
SAN DOMINGO (cloister of)
SAN JULIANS
SAN LUCAR (island)
SAN PHILIP (ship), taken
SAN PHILIP (ship)
SAN SEBASTIAN
SANTA CRUZ (Marquis of)
SANT IAGO
SARMIENTO (P.), Governor of Straits of Magellan
SAUCY JACK (ship)
SCIPIO, mentioned
SERALTA (Marquis of)
SERPENT (ship), voyage to the Azores
SETUVAL
SEYMOUR (Lord Henry)
SIDNEY (Colonel)
SIXTUS (Pope), furthers the Armada
SPAIN, THE VOYAGE TO, BY COLONEL ANTHONY WINKFIELD
SPENCER (lieutenant), killed
STAPER (R.)
SUSAN (ship)
SUSSEX (Earl of)
SYDENHAM (Capt.), killed

TENERIFFE
TERCERA (island)
TERZA, explained
  --Captains of
THIN (capt.)
TILBURY, army collected at
TITION
TOBACCO, mentioned
TOBY (ship)
TORRES VEDRAS
TRISTRAM (J.), killed
TWID

UMPTON (Colonel)
USHANT

VALDEZ (D. F. de)
VALDEZ (Don P. de)
  --Taken
VANDERFOORD (Sir J.)
VAVASOUR (Thomas)
VENNER (T.)
VERA (J. de), taken
VERDE (cape islands)
VERE (Sir F.)
VERTENDONA (M. de)
VICTORY (ship)
VIGO, taken
  --burnt
VILLA FRANCA (St. Michael's)
VIOLET (ship)

WAREFIELD (W.)
WATTS (M.)
WESTON (Sir R.)
WEYMOUTH
WHIDDON (captain)
WHITE DOVE (ship)
WILKINSON (E.)
WILLIAM AND JOHN (ship)
WILLIAMS (Sir Roger)
WILSON (captain)
WINGFIELD (Sir Edward)
WINGFIELD (Captain R.)
WINKFIELD (Sir J.), buried
WINKFIELD (Anthony), HIS ACCOUNT OF THE VOYAGE TO SPAIN AND PORTUGAL
  --Mentioned
WOOD (B.)
WRIGHT (E.), HIS ACCOUNT OF THE VOYAGE OF GEORGE, EARL OF CUMBERLAND, TO
  THE AZORES
YARMOUTH
YORK (Captain)
YOUNG (Captain), killed

ZANTE
ZOUCH (John)


END OF INDEX.



CONTENTS OF VOLS. V., VI., & VII.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

VOL. V.

I. A Catalogue of the Great Masters of the Order of the Dutch Knights,
     commonly called the Hospitalaries of Ierusalem: and what great
     exploites euery of the saide Masters hath achieued, etc.

II. The Oration or speech of the ambassadours sent from Conradus de Zoluer
    master generall of the land of Prussia, vnto Richard the Second, King
    of England, etc.

III. An agreement made by the ambassadours of England and Prussia,
    confirmed by King Richard the Second

IV. The letters of Conradus de Iungingen, master generall of Prussia,
    written vnto Richard the Second, King of England, in the yeere 1398,
    for the renouncing of a league and composition concluded betweene
    England and Prussia, in regard of manifold injuries offered vnto the
    Prussians

V. A briefe relation of William Esturmy, and Iohn Kington concerning their
    ambassages into Prussia, and the Hanstownes

VI. Compositions and Ordinances concluded between the messengers of Frater
    Conradus de Iungingen master generall of Prussia: and the Chancelor and
    treasurer of the realme of England 1403

VII. The letters of the chancelor and treasurer of England, vnto Frater
    Conradus de Iungingen, master generall of Prussia 1403

VIII. The letters of King Henry the 4. vnto Conradus de Iungingen the
    master general of Prussia, for mutual conuersation and intercourse of
    traffique to continue between the marchants of England and of Prussia,
    for a certeine terme of time

IX. The answer of Conradus thereto

X. An agreement made betweene King Henry the fourth and Conradus de
    Iungingen

XI. An agreement made betweene King Henry the fourth and the common
    societie of the Marchants of the Hans

XII. A letter of Henry the fourth vnto Frater Conradus de Iungingen

XIII. Letter from Frater Wernerus de Tettingen to Sir William Sturmy

XIV. The letters of Henry the 4. King of England vnto Vlricus de Iungingen,
    1408

XV. The answer of Vlricus de Iungingen thereto

XVI. The letters of King Henry the 4. to Frater Vlricus

XVII. A new concord concluded between King Henry the 4. and Vlricus de
    Iungingen

XVIII. That the Brittons were in Italie and Greece with the Cimbrians and
    Gaules, before the Incarnation of Christ. (Camden)

XIX. The Trauaile of Helena

XX. The life and trauailes of Alexander the great, Emperour and King of
    Britaine

XXI. Certaine Englishmen sent to Constantinople by the French King to
    Iustinian the Emperour, about the yeere of Christ, 500. (Procopius)

XXII. The life and trauailes of Iohn Erigena

XXIII. Englishmen were the guard of the Emperours of Constantinople in the
    reign of Iohn the sonne of Alexius Comnenus

XXIV. The woorthy voiage of Richard the first, K. of England into Asia, for
    the recouerie of Ierusalem out of the hands of the Saracens. (Iohn
    Foxe)

XXV. Epitaphium Richardi primi regis Anglorum apud Fontem Ebraldi

XXVI. Epitaphium eiusdem vbi viscera eius requiescunt

XXVII. The Trauailes of Gulielmus Peregrinus

XXVIII. The comming of the Emperour of Constantinople called Baldwin into
    England in the yere 1247

XXIX. Confirmatio treugarum inter regem Angliae Eduardum quartum, et
    Ioannem secundum Regem Portugalliae, 1482

XXX. The voyage of Matthew Gourney against the Moores of Algier in Barbarie
    and Spaine. (Camden)

XXXI. The comming of Lyon King of Armenia into England in the yere 1386

XXXII. How the King of Armenia returned out of England

XXXIII. The memorable victories in diuers parts of Italie of Iohn Hawkwood
    Englishman in the reign of Richard the second

XXXIV. The comming of the Emperor of Constantinople into England, 1400

XXXV. A briefe relation of the siege and taking of the Citie of Rhodes, by
    Sultan Soliman the great Turke, translated out of French into English
    at the motion of the Reuerend Lord Thomas Dockwray, great Prior of the
    order of Ierusalem in England, in the yeere 1524

  _Sub-section_ 1 The occasions why the great Turke came to besiege
        the Citie of Rhodes

      2 How the great Turke caused the passages to be kept, that none
        should beare tidings of his hoste to Rhodes

      3 How the lord great master consulted with the lordes for prouision
        of the towne

      4 Of the prouision for vitailes and ordinance of warre

      5 How a Brigantine was sent to Candie for wine, and of diuers ships
        that came to helpe the towne

      6 How the corne was shorne downe halfe ripe and brought into the
        towne for feare of the Turkes hoste

      7 How the great master caused generall musters to be made, and sent a
        vessell to the Turkes nauie, of whom he receiued a letter

      8 The copie of the letter that the great Turke sent to the lord great
        master, and to the people of the Rhodes

      9 How the Turkes came to land in the Isle of Lango, and were driuen
        to their ships againe by the Prior of S. Giles

     10 How part of the nauie and armie of the great Turke came before the
        citie of Rhodes

     11 The number and names of the vessels that came to besiege Rhodes

     12 How the lord great Master made his petition before the image of S.
        Iohn and offered him the Keyes of the towne

     13 How the women slaues would haue set fire to the towne

     14 How the Turkes layd their artillerie about the towne, and of the
        maner and quantitie of their pieces and gunshot

     15 How the captaine Gabriel Martiningo came to the succor of Rhodes,
        and all the slaues were in danger to be slaine

     16 How the great Turke arriued in person before Rhodes

     17 Of the marueilous mounts that the Turks made afore the towne, and
        how the Captaines were ordered in the trenches

     18 Of the politike repaires and defences that the ingenious Captaine
        Gabriel Martiningo made within the towne against the breaches in
        the walles

     19 Of the mines that the Turks made: and how they ouerthrew part of
        the bulwarke of England

     20 How the Turks assailed the bulwarke of England, and how they were
        driven away

     21 How Sir Iohn Brough Turcoplier of England was slaine at an assault
        of the English bulwarke

     22 Of the terrible mine of the posterne of Auuergne

     23 How the bulwarke of Spaine was lost and woone again

     24 How the great Turke for anger that he could not get the towne,
        would have put his chiefe captaine to death, and how they made 11
        mines vnder the bulwarke of England

     25 How the Turks were minded to haue gone their way, and of the
        traitours within the towne, and of many great assaults

     26 How the enemies assailed the posternes of Prouence and Italy, and
        how they were driven away

     27 How the treason of Sir Andrew de Merall was knowen, and of the
        maruellous assaults that the Turks made

     28 How the Turks got the plaine ground of Spaine

     29 How a Geneuois came to the gate of the towne for to speake for a
        treaty and deliuerance of the same

     30 How the great Turke sent two of his men to the towne, to haue it by
        intreating. And how the lord great master sent two knights to him,
        to know his assurance

     31 How the Ambassadours of Rhodes spake with the great Turke, and what
        answere they had

     32 How one of the Ambassadours made answere of his message, and how
        the Commons would not agree to yeeld the towne

     33 How the lord great master sent two ambassadors for the Commons to
        the great Turke

     34 How the Turks began the assault, and how the Commons agreed to
        yeeld the towne

     35 An answere to such as will make question for the deliuererance of
        the citie of Rhodes

     36 How the citie of Rhodes was yeelded to the great Turke, and of the
        euill behauiour of certaine Turkes

     37 Lenuoy of the Translator

XXXVI. An Ambassage from Don Ferdinando, brother to the Emperor Charles V.
    vnto King Henry the VIII., in the yeere 1527, desiring his aide against
    Solyman the great Turke

XXXVII. The antiquitie of the trade with English ships into the Leuant

XXXVIII. A letter of Henry the VIII. to John, King of Portugall

XXXIX. A voyage made with the shippes called the Holy Crosse and the Mathew
    Gonson, to the isles of Candia and Chio, about the yeere 1534

XL. Another voyage to the isles of Candia and Chio, made by the shippe the
    Mathew Gonson about the yeere 1535

XLI. The Epitaph of the valiant Esquire M. Peter Read in the South ile of
    Saint Peters Church in Norwich

XLII. A discourse of the trade of Chio, in the yeere 1569, made by Master
    Campion

XLIII. The first voyage of Robert Baker to Guinie with the Minion and
    Primrose, set out in October 1562

XLIV. The second voyage to Guinie set out in the moneth of November 1563

XLV. The voyage of M. Roger Badenham with the great barke Aucher to Candia
    and Chio, in the yeere 1550

XLVI. Another discourse of the trade to Chio in the yeere 1569 made by
    Caspar Campion

XLVII. The true report of the siege and taking of Famagusta, a citie in
    Cyprus 1571, Englished out of Italian by William Malim

XLVIII. A briefe description of the iland of Cyprus

    _Sub-section_ 1 In Turchas precatio

XLIX. The true report of all the successe of Famagusta, made by the Earle
    Nestor Martiningo, vnto the renowmed prince the Duke of Venice

  _Sub-section_ 1 The first assault

      2 The second assault

      3 The third assault

      4 The fourth assault

      5 The fift assault

      6 The sixt and last assault

      7 The captaines of the Christians slaine in Famagusta

      8 The names of Christians made slaues

      9 The Fortifiers

     10 Turkish Captains at Famagusta

L. The renuing and increasing of an ancient and commodious trade in the
    Levant

LI. The letters sent from Murad Can to Elizabeth

LII. The answer of her Maiestie to the aforesaid letters

LIII. The Charter of the priuileges granted to the English, dated in Iune
    1500

LIV. Her Maiesties letter to the Turke, 1581

LV. The letters patent graunted by Her Maiestie to Sir Edward Osborne and
    other Marchants of London for their trade into the dominions of the
    great Turke, 1581

LVI. The Queenes Commission to Master William Hareborne, to be her
    Maiesties ambassadour in the partes of Turkie, 1582

LVII. The Queenes letters to the great Turke, 1582

LVIII. A letter of the Queenes Maiestie to Ali Bassa, the Turkes High
    Admirall

LIX. A briefe remembrance of things to be indeuoured at Constantinople,
    &c., touching our clothing and our dying, drawen by M. Richard Hakluyt
    of the Middle Temple, 1582

LX. Remembrance for Master S., &c.

LXI. The voyage of the Susan of London to Constantinople

LXII. A letter of Mustapha Chaus to the Queene

LXIII. A letter of M. Harborne to Mustapha

LXIV. A petition exhibited to the viceroy for reformation of sundry
    iniuries offered our nation in Morea

LXV. A commandement to Patrasso in Morea

LXVI. A commandement for Chio

LXVII. A commandement for Baliabadram

LXVIII. A commandement for Egypt

LXIX. A commandement to the Cadie of Alexandria

LXX. A commandement to the Bassa of Alexandria

LXXI. A commandement to the Cadies of Metelin and Rhodes

LXXII. A commandement for Aleppo

LXXIII. The voyage of Master Henry Austell to Constantinople

  _Sub-section_ 1 The Turkes Passport for Captaine Austell

LXXIV. A Passport of the Earle of Leicester for Thomas Foster to
    Constantinople

LXXV. The returne of Master William Hareborne from Constantinople ouerland
    to London, 1588

LXXVI. The priuilege of Peter the prince of Moldauia graunted to the
    English Marchants

LXXVII. The letters of Sinan Bassa to Queene Elizabeth

LXXVIII. A letter written by the Empresse, wife of the Grand Signior Murad
    Can to the Queene, 1594


VOL. VI.

I. Dedication to the First Edition (of Vol. II., 1599)

II. The voyage of Macham on Englishman, wherein he the first of any man
    discovered...Madeira,...written by Antonio Galuano

III. A briefe note concerning an ancient trade of the English marchants to
    the Canarie Ilands, &c.

IV. A Description of...the Ilands of Canaria,...composed by Thomas Nicols,
    &c.

V. The Fardle of Facions, conteining the aunciente Maners, Customs, and
    Lawes, of the Peoples enhabiting...Affricke and Asia (1555)

  (_a_) To the Righte Honourable the Erle of Arundel, &c.
  (_b_) The Preface of the Authour

  _The First Parte._

  _Chapitre_ 1. The true opinion of the deuine, concernyng the
        beginnyng of man

      2 The false opinion of the Philosophre concernyng the beginnyng of
        man

      3 The deuision and limites of the Earthe

      4 Of Ethiope, and the auncient maners of that nation

      5 Of Aegipte, and the auncient maners of that people

      6 Of the Poeni and thother peoples of Aphrique

  _The Seconde Parte_

  _Chapitre_ 1 Of Asie and the peoples most famous therein

      2 Of Panchaia, and the maners of the Panqueis

      3 Of Assiria and Babilonia, and the maners of those peoples

      4 Iewry, and of the life, maners, and Lawes of the Iewes

      5 Of Media, and the maners of the Medes

      6 Of Parthia, and the maner of the Parthians

      7 Of Persia, and the maners and ordinaunces of the Persians

      8 Of Ynde, and the vncouth trades and maners of life of the people
        therein

      9 Of Scithia, and their sterne maners

     10 Of Tartarie, and the maners and power of the Tartarians

     11 Of Turcquie, and of the maners, lawes, and ordenaunces of the
        Turcques

     12 Of the Christians, of their firste commyng vp, their ceremonies and
        ordenaunces

VI. The Conquest of the Grand Canaries, &c.

VII. The Summary or briefe declaration of the Admirals departing towardes
    the West Indies

VIII. The Worldes Hydrographical Discription,...published by J. Dauis of
    Sandrudg by Dartmouth...anno 1595, May 27

  _Sub-section_ 1 To the Righte Honorable Lordes of Her Maiesties Most
        Honorable Priuie Counsayle

      2 The World's Hydrographical Obiections against al northerly
        Discoueries

      3 To proue a passage by the norwest, etc.

      4 By experience of Trauellers to proue this passage

      5 To proue the premisses by the attemptes of our owne countrymen,
        besides others

      6 By late experience to proue that America is an Iland, etc.

      7 That the Ayre in colde regions is tollerable

      8 That vnder the Pole is the place of greatest dignitie

      9 What benefites would growe vnto Englande by this passage being
        discouered


VOL. VII.

I. A voyage to the Azores with the Serpent and Mary Sparke, belonging to
    Sir W. Raleigh, written by John Evesham

II. A briefe Relation of the notable service performed by Sir Francis Drake
    vpon the Spanish Fleete prepared in the Road of Cadiz...in the yeere
    1587

III. A True discourse written...by Colonel Antonie Winkfield emploied in
    the voiage to Spaine and Portugall, 1589

IV. The Escape of the Primrose from...Bilbao in Biscay

V. The Spanish King's Commission for the generall arrest of the English

VI. The voiage of George, Earl of Cumberland to the Azores, written by
    Edward Wright

VII. The valiant fight performed by 10 merchants ships of London against 12
    gallies in the Straights of Gibraltar the 24. of April 1590

VIII. The valiant Fight performed in the Straight of Gibraltar between the
    Centurion of London against five Spanish Gallies in April 1591

IX. A report of the trueth of the Fight about the Iles of Açores...betwixt
    the Revenge...and an Armada of the King of Spaine; penned by the
    honourable Sir Walter Raleigh, Knight

X. A particular note of the Indian Fleet, expected to have come into Spaine
    this present yeere of 1591

XI. A report of master Robert Flicke...concerning the successe of a part of
    the London supplies sent to my Lord Thomas Howard in the Azores

XII. A large Testimony of John Huighen van Linschotten concerning the
    worthy exploits of the Earl of Cumberland, &c.

XIII. The miraculous victory achieved by the English Fleete under the Lord
    Charles Howard upon the Spanish Huge Armada in the yeere 1588

XIV. Ad Serenissimam Elizabetham, Angliae Reginam, Theodor. Beza

XV. A briefe and true report of the Honorable voyage unto Cadiz, 1596

XVI A copie of the Lord Admirals letters to the Duke of Medina Sidonia

XVII. The Most Honourable Tragedie of Sir Richard Grinuile, 1595

XVIII. A True report of a worthy fight betweene five ships of London and 11
    gallies, written by Philip Jones

XIX. Indices: viz.:--
  Volume V.
  Volume VI.
  Volume VII.

XX. Contents: viz.:--
  Volume V.
  Volume VI.
  Volume VII.





*** End of this LibraryBlog Digital Book "The Principal Navigations, Voyages, Traffiques and Discoveries of the English Nation — Volume 07
 - England's Naval Exploits Against Spain" ***

Copyright 2023 LibraryBlog. All rights reserved.