A website from the Massachusetts Historical Society; founded 1791.

Papers of the Winthrop Family, Volume 1

Emmanuel Downing to John Winthrop1
Downing, Emmanuel Winthrop, John

1627-08-31

I am glad to heare of my sisters recouerie: I thank God wee are all in good health here and at my brother Fones;

The Master of the wardes is offered Sir Needhams land by Needham, whither I went once with your selfe to see your kinswoeman, he entreates you send him word what valew yt is per annum, and whither likely to be improved or noe, how wooded, etc.

There is noe newes from the Duke only this that the Fort2 is neither taken nor releived;

The Earle of Holland3 is goeing over to him with 6000 men, whereof 2000 out of England, 2000 out of Scotland and 2000 out of Ireland;

Tilly is gotten into the king of Denmarkes country where the king is putt to the worse, and in Danger to be overthrown yett is he not pittyed here at court, because (say they) he vseth not our men well.4

The Spaynyard hath sent about 16 ships to the Iland of Shethland where the great herring fishing is, where they landed 500 men and haue taken manie of the Fishers netts and Busses and done great spoyle to the great hindrance of the Fishing.

Thus with my dewty to my mother and trew love to your selfe and all yours I rest your loving brother

Em: Downinge London 31 August 1627
1.

W. Au. 31; 4 Collections , VI. 33–34.

2.

At St. Martin’s. The siege began July 17 and, in spite of reinforcements in August, the English were completely routed October 29 and embarking sailed for Portsmouth.

3.

Henry Rich (1590–1649), Earl of Holland, second son of Robert Rich, first Earl of Warwick. D. N. B. , XLVIII. 111–114. Contrary winds and disorganization prevented the success of the relief expedition.

4.

Wallenstein had joined Tilly at Lauenburg and King Christian IV could not bear up against them. The sufferings of the English under Sir Charles Morgan arose from their not having been paid by Charles, and the King of Denmark cannot be held responsible. Gardiner, History of England, VI. 185–187.