Biography of Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet 1592-1637

1611 Nov 1611 Creation of Baronets

1613 The Globe Theatre Burns Down

1613 Thomas Overbury Murder and Trial of his Murderers

1618 Execution of Walter Raleigh

In 1592 Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet was born to John Puckering (age 48).

Nov 1611 Creation of Baronets

Letters of the Court of James I 1613. 24 Jun 1613. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 21).

If these letters did not assure you to the contrary, you might judge me dead; at least that some strange accident hath befallen me, who have kept so deep silence so long a time; for to imagine that either I could forget or neglect your so infinite merits towards me, were a censure too hard and rigorous once to enter into the conceit of so generous a disposition. None of these therefore have been the occasion, but only a mere necessity, first of drawing forth my journey into a longer tract than ever I propounded to myself, and then of making a farther abode in France, than at the beginning I intended, thereby to accommodate certain businesses of your brother [Note. brother-in-law] Newton's (age 33)1, which began through my absence to grow into some untowardly disorder. But now that I am safely arrived here, I shall promise to dedicate myself wholly to your affairs, and will hope to improve my industry and diligence such as you shall find no fault to complain that ever you reposed in me that trust which you have done. Touching your design in the prince's' service, I had already communicated it with Mr. Newton, who giveth small encouragement of proceeding farther in it, at least till his highpess grow near upon the point of bis creation [as Prince of Wales], which is yet likely to hold us in expectance three years longer.

There hath been already some contestation had between your brother and Mr. Murray2, the prince's tutor, touching the place of secretaryship, this man making it, as your brother formerly did, the chief end of his hopes; so that at length Mr. Newton hath been content to relinquish his right thereunto, upon condition to be made his highnesses Teceiver»general, which is like to be no less beneficial than the former. The mastership of his highness's horse hath divers competitors. Sir Thomas Howard is the most importunate suitor; and Ramsey, who is first escuyer to the prince, thinks it great wrong if he do not enjoy it. In the bedchamber, you know there are already two, Sir Robert Carey and Sir James Fullerton (age 50): David Murray sues to be the third, hoping by that means to recover himself of what he is so much cast behind in, having made a very weak and uncertain estate unto himself, notwithstanding all his former service. But he is like to meet with difficulty enough before be obtain it, notwithstanding all the furtherance he finds from Mr. Murray, his kinsman.

Among the grooms, Sandilands began the suit first, and had procured the king's grant for his present entrance into that charge: but this giving occasion to Gibb and Ramsey to do the like, their importunity hath been a means to revoke and cross that which the other made sure reckoning to have before fully effected for himself.

The first day of this next month the prince begins to keep house at Richmond, where Sir Arthur Mainwaring (age 33) and Sir Edward Varnam (age 23) (so I think they call him, for I am a bad treasurer-up of names) are like to exercise their former places, though they both sue to exchange them with being gentlemen of the privy-chamber. Mr. Alexander likewise shall be pat again into the possession of his. So shall Mr. Peter Newton and his fellow Shaw also. Few others shall be admitted above stairs at this present; and for them below, the first clerks in every office shall execute their proper charge as before.

The great places of the court are not yet disposed of. The manifest faction which is between the family of the Howards on the one side, and the Earl of Southampton (age 39) and Viscount Rochester (age 26) on the other, is supposed to be the cause thereof. For the treasurership, the general voice confers it still upon Northampton (age 73), as it did that of the secretaryship upon Sir Harry Neville; though, for this latter, I suppose his hopes quite dashed; for merely depending upon my Lord Rochester, he wants not opposition; and then, besides, Overbury (age 32) being fallen into disgrace3, he is thereby deprived of his best instrument. The most likely man to carry it, in the judgment of those who are not altogether unacquainted with those businesses, is Sir Charles Cornwallis, late treasurer to the prince deceased, who is reported very sufficient for foreign affairs: and with him it is thought shall be joined Sir Thomas Luke, though in a far meaner condition than were their predecessors, by reason of the lord treasurer's present greatness.

There hath lately come forth a proclamation against one Cotton, a west-country gentleman and a great recusant, charging him with high treason against the king and State, for having published a very scandalous and railing book against his majesty; and promising a very large reward to whosoever could apprehend him and bring him in. At the very self-same time, this Cotton being to cross the Thames, and inquiring of the watermen what news, they, not knowing the man, told him what was newly happened concerning himself. Whereupon being landed, he muffled himself in his cloak, thinking thereby to pass unknown to any of his acquaintance that he might haply meet. But he had not passed thence many paces, when one Maine, a follower sometimes of the late Lord of Devonshire, and a sure friend of his meeting him in the street and discovering well what he was, [warned] him likewise of danger, with protestation nevertheless not to make any benefit of the discovery of his friend, but wishing him to provide for his own safety. Thereupon Cotton demanding his opinion what he thought fittest to be done, he advised him to submit himself to the king's mercy: whose counsel he followed, and presently went and surrendered himself into my Lord of South* ampton's hands, and so rests at his majesty's mercy.

Your brother Newton, Mr. Southcot, and one Mr. Wood, have all, jointly together, lately obtained letters-patents for the putting in practice of an invention of the said Wood's, who by steeping all kind of com and grain in a certain liquor, undertakes thereby to render it more fruitful with five shillings' cost, than would ever have been before done with forty. They are now very busy in projecting a course for the [spread]ing of it throughout the realm, and hope to reap no small profit and advantage by it. When that is settled, your brother meaneth to make a journey to Durham4, whither Sir Thomas Grantham and his lady purpose to accompany him. He despatches away before great store of provision by sea, both of wine, beer, and divers other commodities, and means to be at the charge of a very honourable entertainment. Only Mrs. Newton stays behind, being hindered by a very happy occasion, finding herself quick with child.

Sir Thomas Mildmay5 keeps Whitehall close, not daring to venture abroad, for Sir John Wentworth's debt. He intends [to sell] Moulsham away shortly, and so to procure his own liberty.

About four or five days since, the Duke of Savoy's (age 51) ambassador took his leave, who hath been here honoured with a very royal entertainment. The occasion of his ambassage, I suppose, is well enough known unto you, namely, to treat of a second motion of marriage between our prince and one of the daughters of Savoy. His offers are very great, and such as none other cometh near to. His wars upon the Duke of Mantua do, in a manner, furnish the whole subject to the Frenchmen's discourse. To write anything of them, I hold it needless; for, being much nearer, you cannot but understand those things likewise, much better than myself. Only I shall, in a word or two, inform you in how doubtful a deliberation the state of France stands, touching those affairs. The Prince of Conde (age 24) and the Duke of Bouillon press both very earnestly for the relief of the Mantuan against the Savoyard. The Duke d'Espemon, on the contrary, travaileth all he may to overthrow and hinder it. And not long since, this point being debated in open council. Monsieur le Prince, in the heat of his contestation with the said duke, spared not to tell him that there was now carried so much respect to the affairs of Spain, as in the mean time they quite forgot that natural affection which they owed unto France, threatening therewithal that, in case they continued to reject the wholesome counsel which he gave in a matter of that importance, he would go and make his protestations to the Court of Parliament. It is that which keeps the adverse part somewhat in bridle, though yet the queen seems rather inclined to authorize the advice of the others than his. For, as touching the little aid which the Chevalier de Guise hath lately carried over, it is rather by permission than any commission from the queen, and is wholly composed of mere voluntaries.

The Duke de Vendome having lately retired himself from court to a certain house of his, not far from Paris upon a discontentment taken in the behalf and favour of the Prince of Conde, and there threatening never to return again so long as the regency of this queen lasteth; the queen, being advertised thereof presently, sent and confined him to his house. But the said duke, not able to brook any such confinement, contrary to the queen's injunction, made a journey into Bretagne, and there put himself into a very strong castle, named Ansenis. Whereupon, the queen presently despatched Monsieur de la Yarenne towards him, to command him to return; and, in case of his refusal, threatened to deprive him of his goyemment. The duke thereto made a very humble and submissive answer, yet no way disposes himself to obey her commandment Hereupon, the queen hath renewed it a second time by letters; but these are thought will as little avail as the former. And yet, nevertheless, the Prince of Conde, employing himself very earnestly in favour of the said duke, it is not like that there will be any rigorous proceeding against him, as is threatened.

Note 1. Adam Newton, Esq. He is styled by Dr. Thomas Smith, "Vitre quorandam eruditise et illost. virorim," printed in 4to., in 1707, vir elegantissimi ingenii."

Note 2. This appears to refer to Mr. Thomas Murray, who was tutor to the Duke of York, Charles I (age 12).

Note 3. He had ventored to remonstrate with the favourite respecting his intimacy with the Countess of Essex (age 23).

Note 4. See the letter of Letter August 12. Mr. Newton was, as we have stated, Dean of Durham, though a layman: such an appointment being allowable at this period.

Note 5. Knighted by King James I., at his majesty's arrival at Whitehall from Scotland, July 23, 1603, and created a baronet, Jane 29, 1611.

The Globe Theatre Burns Down

Letters of the Court of James I 1613. 30 Jun 1613. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 21).

My last letters advertised you of what had lately happened concerning Cotton, who yielding himself to the king's clemency, doth nevertheless utterly disavow the book, and constantly denieth to be the author of it. Hereupon, his study hath been searched, and there divers papers found, containing many several pieces of the said book, and (which renders the man more odious) certain relics of the late saints of the gunpowder treason, as one of Digby's fingers, Percy's toe, some other part either of Catesby or Bookwood (whether I well remember not), with the addition of a piece of one of Peter Lambert's ribs, to make up the full mess of them. If the proofs which are against him will not extend to the touching of his life, at least they will serve to work him either misery and affliction enough.

Upon Saturday last, being the 26th of this present, there was found, in the stone gallery at Whitehall, a certain letter, bearing address unto the king, which advertiseth him of a treasonable practice against his majesty's own person, to be put in execution the 4th day of the next month, as he went a-hunting (if the commodity so served), or otherwise, as they should find their opportunity; affirming that divers Catholics had therein joined hands, as finding no other means to relieve themselves in the liberty of their conscience; and how there was one great nobleman about his majesty that could give him further instructions of the particulars. That himself was appointed to have been an actor in it; but, touched with a remorse of dyeing his hands in his prince's blood, moved likewise with the remembrance of some particular favours which his father (saith he) had formerly received from his majesty, he could do no less than give him a general notice and warning of it. But because he instanceth not in any one particular, neither subscribed his name, it is held to be a mere invention to intimidate the king, and to beget some strange jealousies in his head of such as are conversant about him.

The prince is as to-morrow to begin housekeeping at Richmond. Sir David Murray and Sir Robert Car (age 35) have newly procured to be sworn (with Sir James Fullerton (age 50)), gentlemen of the bedchamber. Sir Robert Carey hath taken no oath, and remains in the same nature that Sir Thomas Chaloner (age 54) did to the late prince deceased. Sir Arthur Mainwaring (age 33), Varnam, and Sir Edward Lewys (age 53), have at length, with much suit, obtained to be sworn gentlemen of his highness's privy chamber.

The great officers must rest still in a longer expectance, unless this occasion help them. The king (age 47) is desirous to relieve his wants by making estates out of the prince's lands; and having taken the opinion of the best lawyers what course is fittest to be followed, their judgment is, that no good assurance can be made unless the prince himself join likewise in the action. Now, this cannot be done without his council and officers for that purpose; so that it is supposed that some time in Michaelmas term next, before any conveyance be made, certain of these officers, if not all, shall be put again into the possession of their former places.

My Lord of Southampton (age 39) hath lately got licence to make a voyage over the Spa, whither he is either already gone, or means to go very shortly. He pretends to take remedy against I know not what malady; but his greatest sickness is supposed to be a discontentment conceived, that he cannot compass to be made one of the privy council; which, not able to brook here well at home, he will try if he can better digest it abroad.

No longer since than yesterday, while Burbage's company were acting at the Globe the play of Henry VIII, and there shooting off certain chambers in way of triumph, the fire catched and fastened upon the thatch of the house, and there burned so furiously, as it consumed the whole house, all in less than two hours, the people having enough to do to save themselves1.

You have heretofore heard of Widdrington's book2, wherein he maintains against the usurpation of popes, the right of kings in matters temporal. This book hath been undertaken to be confuted by some in France; but the author hath proceeded so far in his confutation against kings' prerogatives, as the Court of Parliament at Paris have censured the book, and given order to have the sentence printed.

It is bruited abroad here, that Sir Thomas Puckering is grown a very hot and zealous Catholic. Sir Thomas Badger reports to have heard it very confidently avouched at a great man's table; and I assure you, it is the general opinion, or rather fear, of the most that know you and honour you. How far this may prejudice you, I leave to your wise consideration. I myself rest fully assured to the contrary, and so endeavour to possess others. Your care will be in the mean time to avoid all occasions whereby to increase this suspicion and jealousy.

Note 1. Barbage was Shakspeare's associate. The play was Shakespeare's, and the theatre was the one in which he had achieved his brilliant reputation.

Note 2. Probably that printed at Frankfort in 1613, and entitled "Apologia Card. Bellarmini pro jare principam contra anas ipsins rationes pro Aactoritate Papali Principes deponendi."

Letters of the Court of James I 1613. 08 Jul 1613. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 21).

Painters and poets may lie by privilege; but such as undertake to make relation of things that pass, should tell naught but truth. Pardon me, therefore, if I must now revoke what in my last letters I writ for certain, touching the swearing of Sir David Murray and Sir Robert Carr (age 35) in his highness's bedchamber. I received it very confidently from Sir John Harrington's (age 73) mouth. But I have found since, by my inquiry, that they only procured the king's warrant, which met with afterwards that opposition from the lords, as it rests yet doubtful whether and when it shall take effect. The prince's household is not yet settled; yesterday the council sat about it, and the opinion was that the king would then sign the book.

My Lord Stanhope's (age 64)1 son (age 20) is lately fallen lunatic; and the little hope that is conceived of his recovery makes divers of your friends think that it was your hard fortune to be no more forward in embracing those offers which were formerly made you out of that house.

You have heard long since, I suppose, of the great difference between my Lord of Essex (age 22) and his lady (age 23), who hath most earnestly sued for a divorce, pretending the only cause to be of her husband's insufficiency; who confesseth it towards her, though he esteems himself well enough provided for any other. It was expected that a nullity of marriage should have been pronounced by my Lord of Canterbury (age 50) at the end of last term, but the sentence is deferred to the term following; which, if it be given in favour of her, it is generally believed that a match shall be concluded between my Lord of Rochester (age 26) and her: thereby to reconcile him and the house of Howard together, who are now far enough asunder.

The news of the great entertainment at the Palatine's I court is but newly arrived here. It consists chiefly in matter of good cheer, after the fashion of the country. They talk of I know not how many hundred tables which should be every day prepared; but you will easily proportion them out yourself, when you shall hear of the number of mouths, which were no fewer, every meal, than 6000. The same messenger brings tidings that her grace is with child, and that there wants not the concurrence of all sach tokens and probabilities as are usually observed in women in that state and condition.

The Duke of Lennox (age 38)2 arrived in Paris on Saturday last, as we are informed here, having made that the way of his return home from Heidelberg. He pretends the occasion of his stay there to be, the seeking to obtain the command of the company of horse which our Prince Charles had, when he was but Duke of York. But, though made an absolute refusal of it before his coming, he having employed himself in that business by commission from our king, the true cause of his stay is thought to be a treaty of marriage between Prince Charles and Madame Christine, which, having been long time negociated by Sir Thomas Edraondes, is thought shall receive its final conclusion from him.

Sir Thomas Waller (deceased), governor of Dover Castle, is lately dead. His place is already disposed of; but I cannot say certainly how. Sir Thomas Somerset (age 34)3 inquires very kindly after you, and you shall do well to omit no good means of entertaining his good opinion still.

Note 1. John, created an English baron by the title of Lord Stanhope of Harrington, May 4, 1605. He died March 9, 1621, leaving issue one daughter only. [Note. He left issue Charles Stanhope 2nd Baron Stanhope, Elizabeth Stanhope Lady Talmash and Catherine Stanhope Countess Leinster]

Note 2. Lodovick Stuart. He was high chamberlain and admiral of Scotland, and in 1601 was Bent by James ambassador to the court of France. In October, 1613, he was created Baron Setrington and Earl of Richmond. He filled the offices of master of the hoasehold, first gentleman of the bedchamber, was invested with the garter, and appointed commissioner to the parliament; and, in 1623, was further advanced to the dignities of the Earl of Newcastle and Duke of Richmond. Though twice married, the Duke of Lennox died without issue, in February. 1624.

Note 3. Third son of Edward, Earl of Worcester (age 63). He was afterwards created Viscount Somerset of Cassel (Cashel) in Ireland.

Letters of the Court of James I 1613. 15 Jul 1613. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 21).

Since my last letters, the king hath signed the book for the prince's household, and *** first entry thereupon on Friday last. The same day were sworn unto him all such officers as have been thought fit to be about him for the present. In the bed-chamber - Sir Robert Carey (age 30), Sir James Fullerton (age 50), Robert Carr of Ancram (age 35), were sworn gentlemen, whereof the last came in by my Lord of Rochester's (age 26) means. Sir David Murray was not only rejected, but taxed openly at the council-table, for having suggested none of the best counsels to the late prince deceased. Into the same place were sworn, as grooms, Mr. Kirk, Mr. Gray (who was formerly his highness's page), and Pitcairne, who, till then, supplied the office of carver. This man is likewise one of my Lord of Rochester's creatures. In the privy-chamber were sworn gentlemen-ushers, Sir William Irwin and Mr. Heydon, to the prejudice of Sir Robert Darcy, who is left out for a wrangler, notwithstanding his continual attendance since his last master's death ***. In quality of gentlemen were sworn into the same place, Sir Arthur Mainwaring (age 33), Sir Edward Vemey (age 23), Sir Edward Lewis, Mr. Clare, and Mr. Dallington. The grooms are taken out of the gentlemen-waiters to the prince, while he was Duke of York, without the addition of any, unless it be Trotter, who is either already come in, or like to obtain the like condition very soon. Mr. Young and Mr. Alexander are sworn gentlemen-ushers of the presence. For carvers, cup-bearers, and sewers, I have not yet learned certainly who they be; but I hear there is little alteration. Ramsay is the first equerry, and Sir Thomas Howard (age 28) master of the horse. The great officers rest still in expectation. Sir David Foulis, it seems, promiseth himself the best assurance; for he executes his place still, though more by permission and sufferance than any commission he hath received to that purpose. D. Ramsay and **** have been great suitors, but with as bad success as may be.

The court is at Theobalds, where his majesty (age 47) hath been much afflicted with a flux and griping of the belly. He is much amended; and, if the occasion of this sickness alter, not his purpose, begins his progress in [Wiltshire], and so to Salisbury, Wiltshire, next Saturday. The queen (age 38), likewise, returns to the Bath, Somerset [Map] the Saturday following.

The chief subject of our French news is the compounding of the quarrel between the Dukes of Savoy (age 51) and Mantua; whereof to write aught to you, who live so near them, were to send owls to Athens.

There hath lately fallen out a great difference between the Duke de Rohan and Monsieur de Plessis (both men of principal mark of them of the Religion, though in a several kind); but what is the cause of their quarrel I yet know not. The chief church there is not a little troubled at it, insomuch that the deputies-general have sent Monsieur Durand, one of the ministers of Paris, down into those parts, to clear the matter, and to mediate a friendly peace between both. The Duke of Lennox (age 38) hath received there a very honourable entertainment. He was expected in the condition of ambassador; but on his arrival took no other quality than of a private person, which gives many occasion to think, that his first commission was countermanded upon the Duke of Savoy's late ambassage hither. These are but conjectures.

I wish your return into these quarters as soon as the season of the year will permit you; it was your purpose when I left you, and I trust you still keep that resolution. The knowledge of that state is chiefly necessary, and the use of that language. I am sure you understand these things better than myself, and therefore dare not [presume] to advise you. Only my desire is the more earnestly led hereunto by an opinion I have of being able to do you there some pleasing service, and of putting into your hands the commodity of advantaging yourself [into] his highnesses favour, than either your friends or money are like to do in haste. I have heard that you have formerly had some inward acquaintance with Sir Robert Carr of Ancram. It will not be unworthy your entertaining still.

Letters of the Court of James I 1613. 22 Jul 1613. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 21).

In this absence of the court, his majesty being now in progress, I find it [so much lost] time here, as were it not rather out of a will I have to keep my custom of writing weekly, than any store of matter I meet with, to furnish out a just letter, I should altogether rest silent for the present, having no further subject than to let you understand how, upon Saturday last, one Talbot, an Irish doctor in the civil law, was committed prisoner to the Tower [Map], for some bad practices of his in Ireland apon that late dissension which there happened between the English and Irish, touching the choice of a speaker. Though I hear he hath thereunto added this further offence, that being the same day of his imprisonment sent for by the king and [the council], and asked whether he thought it lawful upon any occasion whatsoever, and upon [any cause] to kill, or otherwise consent to the killing of his sovereign? answered, that he held no warrant sufficient for so vile an act. But being thereupon [asked a second] time whether he held it lawful for the subject to depose his prince? made answer in the affirmative, in his majesty's own presence; which is like to aggravate [those] that are against him, whereof I cannot yet learn the particulars.

David Ramsay is a great suitor to be captain of a company in the Low Countries, but withal that his debts may be charged and paid here. In the former, he may haply find good success; but he is like to meet with some difficulty in the latter, the rather for that the king's wants are great at this present.

Sandilands hath been offered a place of equerryship to the prince, and, as is said, refusedi it; but he may wait longer, and succeed worse.

Mr. Csesar (age 23) hath this last act at Oxford taken the degree of doctor in the civil law, that he might not any longer anticipate so reverend a title. He now holdeth lumself a knight's fellow at least, and that upon sure ground of yea, though his father's condition should nothing advantage him; which I therefore write, that you may see that, howsoever the quintessence of vnts reside chiefly in your quarter, we are not so barren here, but that we can find men capable of sch[olastic] dignities.

Thomas Overbury Murder and Trial of his Murderers

Letters of the Court of James I 1613. 12 Aug 1613. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 21).

First, touching the business which you so particularly commended unto me at our last being together at Florence, Italy, I have had hitherto very small opportunity of dealing farther in it than pressing Mr. Newton (age 33) for his advice and furtherance. For in this general absence of the court, when king, queen, and prince are all in several progresses, little or no means hath been yet offered. Sir Robert Cary (age 53)1, as your brother telleth me, is the fittest man to be dealt with in that kind, to whom I shall most willingly likewise address myself, as having best means to him. Only I attend some further directions from Mr. Newton both for the nature of the place I should sue for, and how I should govern myself in my offers for the accomplishment of it.

For news, that which is of chiefest moment is this. There hath lately happened in the Palatine's court a strange quarrel between the English and Scots, and that in this manner and upon this occasion. Sir Andrew Keigh, a Scotsman, that is in some office about the Palatine, happening one day to contest with my Lady Harrington (age 59)2 upon some point in her grace's presence, [he proceeded] to that insolency at the length, as he gave her the lie; and not content therewith (to verify that of the orator, "qui vere cundiæ fines semel transierit, eum benè et gnavitèr oportet esse impudentem," [Note. she who truly has once crossed the bounds of grace must be shameless]) fell to debase my lord (age 73) likewise with very base and opprobrious speeches. Mr. Bushell, who, as I understand, was the only man of all my lord's followers that was then present, finding Keigh not long after in a fit place for that purpose, offered him the combat in defence of his lord's and lady's honour; and as both were ready to draw, another Scotsman, who was in Keigh's company, interposed himself, and suffered not them to proceed then any farther. Being thus parted, my Lord Harrington sent for Mr. Bushell to his chamber (whether to wish him to be quiet, or for what other occasion I know not). In the mean time, this Keigh [at the] head of four or five Scotsmen more, himself being provided, besides his sword, with a square bastinado and a dagger, the rest with the [sword] only, lies in wait to set apon Mr. Bashell at his return: [who, as he was] coming from my lord, and not dreaming of any such enterprise, and going to put his foot in his stirrup to mount up upon his horse, (for my lord's [lodging and his] were far asunder), lo! Keigh steps forth, striking him, [and with the] bastinado fells him: yet presently he recovered himself, and, offering to rise, received a second blow upon the head, and was felled a second time. Notwithstanding all this, he recovered himself again, and drew out his sword in his own defence, being all idone; when all the rest laid about him with their swords, and, being five to one, wounded him very grievously, as having run him through the body, and into divers parts no less than twelve times. During this conflict, Mr. Gray, another of my lord's gentlemen, coming forth, received a thrust in the hand, but not without leaving some of the marks likewise upon them. After that came her grace's coachman, and took part with Mr. Gray (for Mr. Bushell was now left for dead) and hurt two or three of the Scots; who, not daring to abide to fight any longer, partly for fear of others that might come in, and partly for that they supposed their chief enemy either dead or not likely to live, presently quitted the place, and betook themselves to flight. But there was suddenly way made after them, and they all brought back again. Sir Andrew Keigh was confined to his chamber under a sure guard, the rest committed to the ordinary prison; and a messenger presently despatched over into England to understand his majesty's pleasure touching this subject; who has scarcely as yet received the news thereof. Mr. Bushell nevertheless is yet living, and not without hope of recovery. My Lord and Lady Harrington purpose to return for England this month, and to bring him along with them, (which they may well do by water) if they find him any way able to endure it.

Upon their arrival. Sir John Harrington (age 21)3 purposeth to go and take possession of his government in Guernsey [Map], which he hath lately obtained by an exchange which he hath made between it and a reversion of an office formerly granted him of being master in the King's Bench.

My Lord of Essex's (age 22) cause hath had no hearings of late, and is remitted over to the 18th day of this next new month. Two new commissioners are adjoined to the former, viz., the Bishops of Winchester (age 66)4 and Rochester (age 51)5 that their voice in favour of the nullity may be able to counterpoise the contrary opposition of Canterbury and London.

The Lord Chief Justice Fleming (deceased) is lately dead, and Hobart and Montagu suitors for the place.

In my last letters I acquainted you with the stirs that were at Nismes upon occasion of M. Ferrier, some time their minister. M. le Conestable, who resides in those parts, hath made such a grievous complaint thereof unto the queen (age 11)6, as she hath taken a resolution thereupon to translate, by way of punishment, the presidial seat of justice, which is there, to Beaucaire, a neighbour Catholic town, hard by; which, if it once come to be put in execution, is like to occasion far greater stirs in those quarters.

Note 1. Fourth son of Henry Cary Lord Hunsdon, and grandson of William Cary, Esq., who married Mary Boleyn, sister to Queen Anne Boleyn. Sir Robert Cary was created by King James I (age 47), Lord Gary of Lepingdon, in Yorkshire, and by King Charles I (age 12), Earl of Monmooth.

Note 2. Anne, daughter and sole heir of Robert Kelway, Esq, surveyor of the Court of Wards, and wife of Sir John Harrington, created 21st July, 1603, by King James the First, Lord Harrington of Exton in Rutland. He had the tuition of the Lady Elizabeth (age 16), whom he attended, in April, 1613, to the Palatinate; and died in the same year.

Note 3. Son of Lord Harrington. He died in February, 1613-14.

Note 4. Dr. Bilson.

Note 5. Dr. John Buckridge.

Note 6. Queen of France.

Letters of the Court of James I 1613. 29 Aug 1613. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 21).

Yoa may please to remember how, in some of my former letters, I made mention of my Lord of Essex's (age 22) case, which was to rest in dependance till next term. But the king showed himself so affectionate in it, as the commissioners have been forced (to give his majesty satisfaction) to yield a more speedy hearing of it, which was done (though with little effect) upon last Wednesday. But it is believed generally that unless the commission be changed, the nullities which his majesty desireth will never be pronounced. For the Archbishop of Canterbury (age 50) and the Bishop of London (age 54), together with Dr. Bennet, and Dr. Edwards, who are like to have the greatest sway in deciding this controversy, are directly against it; insomuch as my Lord of Canterbury, being with his majesty at Windsor for some three or four days before the hearing, fell down upon his knees twice or thrice, to entreat his majesty that he might be dispensed with from being on the commission; which he would esteem a greater favour that all that he had received from him in being raised from a private condition, and in so short a space, to the highest dignity ecclesiastical. At the last hearing, my Lord of Rochester (age 26) stayed here in town, as is supposed, to hear the success, and rode presently past unto the king, [to acquaint] his majesty thereof, and showeth himself so passionate in this business only in favour [of the countess (age 23),] with whom a new match would be presently concluded, if the old one were now abolished.

Sir Thomas Overbury (age 32) is like to run a short course, being sick unto death1. The lieutenant of the Tower, and the physicians that were there about him, have subscribed their hands, that they hold him a man past all recovery.

Mr. Albert Morton (age 29), secretary of Sir Henry Wotton, is to be sent presently ambassador to the Duke of Savoy (age 51), and there [remain], which gives occasion of conjecture here that the old treaty of marriage is now [on foot] again; and that that other of France is like to fall to the ground. But in these [conjectures] haply it would be fit to be more sparing.

I received news lately from a gentleman, that heard it from Sir Ralph Winwood's (age 50) own mouth, that the States are resolved to make war upon the King of Denmark, if either our king will join them, or otherwise be [persuaded] to stand by a neuter. Their quarrel is, for that the King of Denmark hath imposed a grievous tax upon all merchandize that pass the Sound, and he hath in effect blocked up that passage: for it is held that of every three ships that pass, one falls by this means to his share, which is a thing intolerable.

The differences between them of the Religion in France are grown so violent as the deputies'-general have petitioned the queen, in the name of all the provinces, for liberty to hold a general assembly for [consideration] and pacification of them. But they find this request to be nothing pleasing, nor without great difficulty to be obtained, out of a jealousy the States hath that they may grow to new complaints and demands, after the example of the last assembly.

There hath been lately a proposition of marriage between the daughter of M. D'Ancre, and M. De Villeroy's grand-child, who is the heir of his house; there having been a former intention of matching her with the young Duke D'Elboeuf, which gives occasion of great jealousy and suspicion to M. De Guise and his faction, fearing by this news that M. De Yilleroy will be disjoined from them.

Note 1. He died on the 15th of September following, from poison, which Rochester and his countess had caused to be administered in his food.

Letters of the Court of James I 1613. 26 Aug 1613. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 21).

Queen Margaret (age 60)1, I hear, is very sick, they say, out of conceit; for that it hath been told her, that the almanac doth foretel that this month one of the greatest women of Christendom shall die. The world would laugh, if so great a woman as she is (saith mine author) should have so little wit, as to be put to death by an almanac. The Prince of Conde (age 24), having overheated his body lately in hunting of the stag, fell into a burning ague, and was in some danger for four or five days; but now the violence of the disease being spent, there is a good hope conceived of his recovery.

The Duke d'Espernon (age 59), pretending to live in great fear of his life by reason of the mortal hatred, which divers of his enemies bear him, hath obtained of the queen, for better security, a guard of twenty men taken out of the regiment des gardes who accompany him up and down, wherever he goes; which is offensive to many, who think it strange that the public guard should be employed in the maintaining of his particular factions.

One Recion, a printer of the Religion, having long since reprinted the book of "Novus Homo," (which was published here in England before against the present Pope) was condemned by the Judge of the Chatelet to make an amende honorable before the court, and another before the Nuncio; the further sentence was, that the book should be burned at the Nuncio's gates; and the printer himself banished for ever out of Paris. From which sentence he appealing to the Court of Parliament, they have remitted all his other punishments, save banishment, and that they have restrained only to two years.

Those of the Religion having begun to build a college at Charenton, for the instruction of their youth, the lieutenant-civil adjourned the deputies-general to appear before him, to answer the matter; but they sent him word they were responsible to none but the chancellor, and do not let to go forward with the building; being confident they are sufficiently warranted thereunto by the grants and license of the last king. Richeome, the Jesuit, hath newly set forth at Bordeaux an answer of "Anti-Coton" and La Martaliere's Plea against the Jesuits, and I understand that Suarez2, the Jesuit, hath newly set forth a great book in quarto at Coimbra, in answer to his majesty's apology. The quarrel between the King of Denmark and the States' is now at length happily compounded. My Lord Harrington (deceased) and his lady (age 59) are, by this, I suppose, arrived in England, having left the Palatine's court above a fortnight since. Sir John is gone to meet them at Calais; otherwise, I suppose, your letter should ere now have received answer. Some time next week, if not the latter end of this, his majesty is expected here in London.

Note 1. The first wife of Henry IV of France, from whom she was divorced. She died 27th March, 1615.

Note 2. Francis Saurez, a Spanish theologian, who attacked James in a work written in defence of Catholicism, to which the king thought proper to reply by the hands of the hangman; a functionary who seems to have been much troabled at this period with the writings of zealoas controversialists. Saarez pablished twenty-three folio volumes, and died at Lisbon in 1613.

On 02 Jul 1616 Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 24) and Elizabeth Morley Lady Puckering were married at St Bartholomew the Less. She by marriage Lady Puckering of Weston in Hertfordshire.

Letters of the Court of James I 1618. 05 Oct 1618. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 26).

This day, news arrived of my Lord de la War's death, in his voyage to Virginia. This day was fatal to my Lord Clifton (age 48), who, at his lodgings in Holborn, stabbed and murdered himself. The last week, the French agent [Le Clerc] was interdicted the court, for being appeached by a companion of his, already in prison for the same crime, to have projected and offered means of Sir Walter Raleigh's (age 64) escape; and, though he protested against it, and sought to justify himself by writing, yet served it not his turn; for in the same terms he remains still, and hath (as I hear) written the news thereof to the king his master, petitioning either for a revocation or a reintegration, by his means, into his former condition.

Letters of the Court of James I 1618. 20 Oct 1618. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 26).

What I wrote concerning Sir Fulk Greville (age 64), the last week, holds current still; there is some alteration about his successor; for, instead of Sir Allen Apsley (age 51), they now nominate Sir Henry Spiller to be the only man. I formerly signified how his majesty, upon good grounds, had forbidden the French agent the court. To pay us back in the same coin (though not upon so just a cause), the French king hath dismissed, likewise, Mr. Becher, and means, as we hear, to second that disgust by another of more importance, the cashiering of the Scots guard.

Execution of Walter Raleigh

Letters of the Court of James I 1618. 03 Nov 1618. London. Reverend Thomas Lorkin to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 26).

My last letter intimated a warrant that was formed for Sir Walter Raleigh's despatch. his end.

Upon Wednesday, therefore, he was brought to Westminster, to receive sentence anew from the lord chief justice, to comply with certain formalities, I hear, in law, for that those who pronounced it were dead. Being presented at the bar, he demanded for what offence he was proceeded against? Answer was made, it was his majesty's pleasure to take his life for the first; and that the cause of his coming again to the bar now was, to declare the former condemnation to stand still in force. He offered to speak somewhat for himself, but it was not permitted. The attorney (age 52) told him that he had lived like a star, and like a star must he fall, when it troubled the firmament. Then he was delivered into the sheriff's charge, and by him carried from thence to the Gatehouse; and the day following (which was, by all good tokens, the lord mayor's day), in the Old Palace Yard, executed. His warning was short; for he had no word to prepare himself for death, till that very morning he was convented before the judge. He sued for four or five days longer, under pretence of having somewhat to communicate with his majesty, in writing, for his behoof and service, which in so short a time could not be performed; and something, I hear, he hath written to the king to that purpose. Yet it was conceived as a device to gain time, that his friends might the more effectually intercede for his pardon, so that suit would not be granted. Whereupon he prepared himself for death. The Dean of Westminster visited him, and, after some · conference between them two, he, at his hands, received the sacrament; and, the night before his execution, made his own Epicedium, or funeral song, which I have here sent you.

He had the favour to die a gentleman's death, and to be beheaded. His end was, by the general report of all that were present, very Christian - like; and so full of resolution, as moved all men to pity and wonder. In going from the prison to the scaffold, amongst others that thronged about to see him, one old man, that was bald, pressed very forward, insomuch as Sir Walter Raleigh took notice of him, and asked him whether he would have aught of him. To whom the old man answered: " Nothing but to see him, and to pray to God to have mercy upon his soul." "I thank thee, good friend," replied Sir Walter; "and I am sorry I have no better thing to return thee for thy good will: but take this night-cap" (which was a very rich one, that he wore, for he had had two fits of a fever), " for thou hast more need of it now than I. "

Being come to the scaffold, he saw the lords seated in a place that was provided for them, somewhat far off, and, fearing lest his voice should not well reach them, desired them that they would approach, because what he had then to say, he wished the whole world should take notice of. And so they did, and heard a most grave, Christian, and elegant discourse, as they commonly qualify it. In it he laboured to clear himself from three main aspersions. The first, of atheism; which he did by a worthy profession of his faith, and profession of his hope to be saved thereby. The second was concerning my Lord of Essex's death, whom he was reported to have insulted upon at his death, taking tobacco in a bravery before his face and to have procured and practised his ruin. Against both which he solemnly protested; adding further, that he acknowledged himself to be, indeed, of a contrary faction, because my Lord of Essex had refused him, whom he first sought; but that he was so far from triumphing at his death, as he never was more affected with grief for any man's, and expressed the same with tears, to his prejudice, in the opinion and friendship, as it proved afterwards, of the adverse party. The third was concerning those last occasions wherein he stood charged with a disloyal intention in the voyage he undertook, and with further accusations since his return. The former seemed grounded upon a report that went, of great sums of money which he secretly transported with him to the value of £ 10,000, and the extraordinary provision of artillery he carried with him; both which he satisfied, by showing the falsehood of the first (all his own store not exceeding the sum of one hundred and fifty pieces, whereof he sent back part to his wife), and the necessity of the second, in regard of the Spaniard, upon whose friendship he had no occasion to presume.

Touching the other accusations, they all respected Sir Lewis Stukeley as their author (whom he professed to forgive, by the way, with all his heart, but yet thought fit to désagencer the world, both the better to justify himself, and to teach every man how to trust him). And, whereas, he first accused him to have practised with the French agent about his escape, he protested he never saw him but once, in the gallery at Whitehall, before he undertook his voyage; neither ever had aught to do with him since. Secondly, whereas, Stukeley charged him to have offered him £ 10,000 if he would consent to his escape; he likewise therein proclaimed him false, sith his largest promises in that kind never exceeded the payment of Stukeley's debts, which he confessed to have undertaken for him. Thirdly, whereas the said Stukely accused him to have laid to Sir Edward Parry's charge, where he was entertained in his coming up to London, the poisoning of him; he took his death upon it that it was most calumnious. He used, indeed, art to counterfeit a poisoning upon himself, ' which he thought was warranted by David's example, who feigned himself, in a case of like danger, mad; but that he had ever fathered it upon him, who had ever been his noble and worthy friend, he utterly disavowed it under a solemn execution. Lastly, whereas his accuser testified against him, that he had, for his encouragement to give way to his escape, assured him that my Lord of Doncaster and Lord Arran were privy to the design, and favourers of it, he assured the contrary under a deep oath; adding that he knew how fearful and dangerous a thing it was to call God to witness to a lie at any time, much more at the hour of a man's death, but he had herein satisfied the obligation of a good conscience.

This done, he embraced all the lords, and other of his friends there present, with such courtly compliments of discourse, as if he had met them at some feast. They then cleared the scaffold; which being done, he takes up the axe and feels the edge, and finding it sharp for the purpose, "This is that," saith he, "that will cure all sorrows;" and so kissing it, laid it down again. After that he went to three several corners of the scaffold, and, kneeling down, desired all the people to pray for him, and conceived a long prayer for himself. Then he began to fit himself for the block, without permitting any help, and first laid himself down, to try how the block fitted him. After rising up, the executioner knelt down, and desired him to forgive him; which, with an embrace, he protested he did, but entreated him not to strike till he gave a token, by lifting up his hand; "and then fear not," said he, "but strike home." So he laid himself down to receive the stroke, and the hangman directed him to lay his face towards the east. "No matter how the head lie," answered he, "so the heart be right." After he had lain a little while upon the block, conceiving some prayers to himself, he gave the watchword, and the executioner, it seems, not minding it, he called aloud unto him, asking him why he did not strike. "Strike man!" said he, and so in two blows was delivered from his pain.

In all the time he was upon the scaffold, nor before, there appeared not the least alteration in him, either in his voice or countenance, but he seemed as free from all manner of apprehension, as if he had been come thither rather to be a spectator than a sufferer. Nay, the beholders seemed much more sensible than did he; so that he hath purchased here, in the opinion of men, such honour and reputation, as, it is thought, his greatest enemies are they that are most sorrowful for his death, which they see is like to turn so much to his advantage.

Štukeley, notwithstanding, hath been at court since, offering to his majesty, by way of his own justification, to take the sacrament upon it, that what he laid to Sir Walter Raleigh's charge was true; and to produce two other witnesses, free from all exception, that would do the like. Why, then," replied his majesty " the more malicious he to utter those speeches at his death." But Sir Thomas Badger, who stood by and heard it, "Let the king," said he, "take off Stukeley's head, as he hath done the other's, and let him at his death take the sacrament, and his oath upon it, and I'll believe it; but otherwise I shall credit Sir Walter Raleigh's bare affirmative before a thousand of his oaths." And it is strange to see how every man at court declines that Stukeley's company, as treacherous.

Thus I have related at large the discourse at court; whereunto I shall briefly add, for farther news, that the prince, a little before they came from Royston, resigned up his pretensions to the Admiralty (whereof he had received a grant from the king long since) to the Marquis of Buckingham.

In 1621 Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 29) was elected MP Tamworth.

In 1623 Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 31) was appointed High Sheriff of Warwickshire.

On 20 Mar 1637 Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet (age 45) died. He was buried at St Mary's Church, Warwick [Map] where there is a monument by Nicholas Stone (age 50). Baronet Puckering of Weston in Hertfordshire extinct.

After 27 Jan 1652 Henry Newton aka Puckering 3rd Baronet (age 33) changed his surname from Newton to Puckering when [his son] Jane Puckering, the only child of his maternal uncle Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet, died without issue.

[his son] Jane Puckering was born to Thomas Puckering 1st Baronet and Elizabeth Morley Lady Puckering.