Chapter II: Part 2

The King of _Spain_’s Instructions to his General, were[46], To repair to _Calais_ Road, and there wait for the Arrival of the Duke of _Parma_, who had Orders to join him with his Fleet and Forces; and, upon their meeting, to open a Letter directed to them both, with further Orders [particularly, to advance up the _Thames_, and attack _London_.] He was strictly enjoined, in the mean time, to sail along the Coasts of _Bretagne_ and _Normandy_, in order to avoid being discovered by the _English_ Fleet; and if unexpectedly he should meet them, not to offer Battle, but act only upon the Defensive.

With these Instructions, the _Spanish_ Fleet set sail on the 19th of _May_ from the _Tagus_, and steer’d for the _Groyne_, the Place of general Rendezvous. But they had not been long at Sea, before they were so dispersed by a violent Storm, off of Cape _Finisterre_, that scarce the third Part of them reached, some Days after, the intended Port: And three of the Gallies, by the Stratagem of _David Gwyn_, an _English_ Slave, assisted by some of the _Moorish_ Rowers, were run into a Harbour of _France_[47].

In the mean time, the Lord _Howard_ having continued a good while upon the Narrow Seas between _England_ and _Flanders_[48], sent Sir _Francis Drake_ towards the Western Coasts, with about fifty Sail, great and small; intending to follow himself, with a stronger Force, if there should be Occasion. For the present he remained in the _Downs_, with the Lord _Henry Seymour_ his Vice-Admiral, where they had under their Command twenty Ships belonging to the City of _London_, with several other Vessels fitted out by the Coast-Towns, from the _Thames_ to _Newcastle_. But News being brought of the Armada’s being ready to put to Sea, the Admiral left the Lord _Henry Seymour_ with a convenient Number of Ships, to watch the Duke of _Parma_’s Motions; and setting Sail on the 21st of _May_, with about thirty Vessels of all Sorts, arrived on the 23d at _Plymouth_. Here he was joined by Sir _Francis Drake_, whom he constituted his Vice-Admiral, and whose Squadron, by the Addition of some Vessels from the Western Ports, amounted now to sixty Sail.

The Lord _Howard_, upon his Arrival at _Plymouth_, gave Orders for the Victualling, and putting in Readiness, the whole Fleet, which now consisted in all of about ninety Ships and Barks. As soon as it was ready he put out to Sea, and cruized at the Channel’s Mouth, between _Ushent_ and _Scilly_, looking out for the _Spanish_ Fleet. He thus continued cruizing for several Days, sometimes upon the Coast of _France_, and sometimes upon that of _England_; and, at last, hearing nothing of the _Spaniards_, returned to _Plymouth_, for a new Supply of Victuals, and other Necessaries.

Mean while, fourteen _Spanish_ Ships were discovered between _Ushent_ and _Scilly_, which were afterwards known to have been separated from the rest of the Fleet by the late Storm. But before they could be met with by any _English_ Ships, they had a Northerly Wind, which carried them back to the _Groyne_; where, and at the neighbouring Ports, the whole Fleet took in their Soldiers and Warlike Provisions.

The _Spanish_ Fleet, as has been said above, had been dispersed, and somewhat disabled by a violent Storm. This had like to have proved more fatal to the _English_ than to the _Spaniards_ themselves[49]. For it being reported all over _Europe_, that the whole _Spanish_ Fleet was destroyed, Queen _Elizabeth_ and her Ministers thought that it was at least so damaged, as that it could not proceed ’till the next Year. Relying therefore upon this Intelligence, which they took for certain, Secretary _Walsingham_ signified the Queen’s Pleasure to the Lord High-Admiral, to send back four of his largest Ships into Port. His Lordship had, in the mean time, likewise Intelligences sundry ways, that the Enemy’s Fleet was dispersed into several Ports of _Spain_, distressed, spoiled, in want of Provisions, and with a great Mortality among the Men. This, however, happened to be only a false Rumour. The Lord-Admiral not thinking it safe to depend upon such Uncertainties, when the Nation’s All was at Stake, got the Order countermanded; alledging how dangerous it was to be too credulous in a matter of such Importance, and that he would rather keep the Ships out at his own Charge, than hazard his Country’s Safety. But, in order to be fully satisfied, (as he was sure that the Coasts of _England_ and _France_, which he had examined, were clear) he thought proper[50], with the Advice of a Council of War, to take the Opportunity of the first Northerly Wind, and go in quest of the _Spanish_ Fleet, in the _Groyne_, and other Ports of _Gallicia_; and there utterly destroy it, if it were already so disabled as was reported; or, if otherwise, to get certain Intelligence concerning its true State and Condition. Accordingly his Lordship made Sail for the Coast of _Spain_, with a Northerly Wind, and held the same Course for about three Days, from the 8th to the 10th of _July_. He was not then above forty Leagues from that Kingdom, when being informed that the Enemy’s Fleet was not so much damaged as reported, and the Wind coming to be Southerly, he judged it best (as his Instructions were to guard the _English_ Coasts,) to return to _Plymouth_; lest the same Wind should bring the Enemies out, and carry them by him, unseen, towards _England_. He arrived at _Plymouth_ the 12th of _July_, and with great Expedition supplied his Fleet with whatever Necessaries were wanting.

His Caution was indeed very seasonable: For with the same Southerly Wind the Duke of _Medina Sidonia_ sailed, with the whole Fleet under his Command, from the _Groyne_, on the 12th of _July_, (the very same Day the Lord Admiral arrived at _Plymouth_,) and in two or three Days detached a Yatch to the Duke of _Parma_, with Notice of his being advanced so far. He pressed him at the same Time, to be ready with the Troops and Ships he was directed to provide, in order to pass over into _England_ under his Convoy, as soon as he should be arrived in the Streights of _Dover_.

While the _Spanish_ Fleet lay at the _Groyne_[51], an _English_ Fisherman that was taken and brought to that Place, gave the Enemies, either out of Ignorance or Design, this false Account: “That the _English_ Fleet had lately been at Sea; but seeing no Prospect of the _Spaniards_ pursuing their Design that Year, was returned, and the greater Part of the Men belonging to the Ships discharged.” This false Intelligence made the Duke of _Medina Sidonia_ deviate from his Instructions; and as he vainly supposed that he could easily surprise our Fleet, and burn or otherwise destroy it, he resolved not to lose so glorious an Opportunity. Instead therefore of going directly to join the Duke of _Parma_, a Resolution was taken in the _Spanish_ Fleet, to bend their Course towards _England_.

[52]On the 16th of _July_ there was a Calm and a thick Fog ’till Noon. Then the North East Wind blew very strong, and presently after the West Wind ’till Midnight; and then the East-South-East Wind; insomuch that the _Spanish_ Fleet being thereby dispersed, was hardly joined again ’till it came within Sight of _England_. At length this Fleet, after an indifferent Passage over the Bay of _Biscay_, arrived _July_ 19, in Sight of _England_ and entered the Channel. The first Land they made was the _Lizard_, which they took to be the _Ram’s Head_ near _Plymouth_; but Night approaching, they stood off, designing the next Morning to attack the _English_ Ships in _Plymouth_ Harbour.

The same Day[53], the Lord Admiral was informed by Captain _Thomas Flemming_, Commander of the _Golden Hind_ Pinnace, who had been left in the Channel for Discovery, that [Sidenote: PLATE 1.] the _Spanish_ Fleet was seen near the _Lizard_, the Wind being then Southerly, or South-West. Tho’ the Wind blew hard into _Plymouth-Sound_, and the Intelligence was not received ’till about four o’ Clock in the Afternoon, yet his Lordship, with much Diligence and Industry, got out the same Evening with six of his Ships, and anchored with them alone the whole Night, without the Harbour.

[54]The next Day, _July_ 20, the Lord High-Admiral, accompanied with fifty four Ships of his Fleet, that had plied out of the _Sound_, notwithstanding the South-West Wind, advanced towards the Enemy. They were scarce got as far as the _Eddystone_, when they discovered, about Noon, the _Spanish_ Fleet to the [Sidenote: PLATE 2.]Westward, opposite to _Fowey_, in form of a half Moon (the Points whereof were about seven Miles asunder) coming slowly up the Channel, tho’ with full Sails. The _English_ suffered them to pass by unmolested, that they might chace them in the rear, with all the Advantage of the Wind.

The next Morning, _July_ 21, all the _English_ Ships being then come out of _Plymouth_, and in number near a hundred, had recovered the Wind of the _Spaniards_[55], two Leagues to the Westward of _Eddystone_. About Nine o’ Clock, the Lord-Admiral sent his Pinnace, named the _Defiance_[56], to denounce War against the Enemy, by the Discharge of all her Guns. He himself immediately seconded her from his own Ship, the _Ark-Royal_, by thundering furiously on one of the Enemy’s, commanded by _Alphonso de Leva_, which he mistook for the _St. Martin_, the Admiral’s Ship; but she was, after a smart Engagement, [Sidenote: PLATE 3.]rescued by the _Spaniards_. In the mean time, Sir _Francis Drake_, Captain _John Hawkins_, and Captain _Martin Forbisher_, vigorously engaged the Enemy’s sternmost Ships, under the Conduit of their Vice-Admiral _Recalde_; in one of which _Recalde_ himself was supposed to be. He did all that a gallant Officer could do to keep his Ships together; but the Fight was so briskly maintained, that, notwithstanding all his Endeavours, they were forced to retreat to the main Body of the Fleet; and at length, his own Ship being very much damaged with Shot, and grown unserviceable, he retired thither himself, tho’ with much ado.

In this first Engagement _Recalde_’s Ship lost fifteen Men[57].

At the same time, the Duke of _Medina_ gathered together his Fleet[58], which was dispersed about; and hoisting more Sail, held on his Course with all the Speed he could make. Nor was it in his Power to do otherwise, seeing the Wind favoured the _English_, and their Ships were so light and nimble, that they would charge, wind, and tack about with incredible Swiftness; whereas the _Spanish_ great and heavy Slugs, stood like so many Butts for the _English_ Shot. Although the _Spaniards_ were so briskly charged by the _English_, they made a running Fight of it; and, after a smart Engagement of two Hours, the Lord High-Admiral thought fit to desist, because forty of his Ships were not yet come up, being scarce got out of _Plymouth_ Haven[59]. So not proceeding any farther, he gave the Signal for a Council of War;——Wherein his Lordship’s prudent and considerate Advice being very much approved, Orders were delivered to each Captain, in what manner they should pursue the Enemy.

The Night following, one of the _Spanish_ Ships, called the _St. Katherine_, having received much Damage in the Fight, was brought into the midst of their Fleet, to be repaired[60]. And a large _Biscayan_ Ship of eight hundred Tuns, belonging to _Michael de Oquendo_, Admiral of the _Guypuscoan_ Squadron, on board of which was the Treasurer of the Fleet, was designedly set on Fire by a _Dutch_ Gunner, who had been ill used[61]; but the _Spaniards_ took out the best Part of the Money, when they saw the Ship in Danger; and after her upper Part was burnt and blown up, the Flame was extinguished by some Ships that came seasonably to her Assistance. But one of them, a great Galleon, commanded by Don _Pedro de Valdez_, sprung her Foremast and Boltsprit, by falling foul of another Vessel in the Hurry and Confusion; and so, not being able to keep Company with the rest of the Fleet, was left behind. The Night being extremely dark, and the Sea running so high, that no Succour could come to her, she fell the next Day, _July_ 22, into the Hands of [Sidenote: PLATE 4.]Sir _Francis Drake_; who had her conducted to _Dartmouth_, and sent the Captain, and some other Gentlemen who were on board, Prisoners to _Plymouth_, where they remained eighteen Months, ’till their Ransoms were paid. In this Galleon was found fifty five thousand Ducats of Gold, which _Drake_’s Men shared amongst themselves.

[62]This Night the _Spanish_ Fleet bore along by the _Start_, and the next Morning was as far to the Leward as the _Berry_[63]. Sir _Francis Drake_ had been ordered to carry Lights; but being in full Chace of some _German_ Hulks, or Merchant-Men, which he discovered late in the Evening, and took for Enemies, he happened to neglect it; which occasioned most of the Fleet to lye by all Night, because not seeing the Lights, they knew not whom to follow. For that Reason, Sir _Francis_, and the rest of the Fleet, did not come up ’till the next Evening with the Lord Admiral; who, accompanied only with the _Bear_ and the _Mary Rose_, had pursued the Enemy, within Culverin Shot, all the foregoing Night. [64]Thro’ this Mistake, the rest of the _English_ Fleet staid so far behind, that the next Morning the nearest could scarce be seen half Mast high, and very many were quite out of Sight.

_July_ 22. This whole Day the _Spanish_ Admiral spent in disposing his Fleet in the best Order he could think of. [65]He commanded _Alphonso de Leva_ to bring the first and the last Squadron together; and assigning every particular Ship its proper Station in Battle, according to the Plan agreed on in _Spain_, enjoined their respective Commanders to keep the same on Pain of Death. He also dispatch’d _Glich_, an Ensign, to the Prince of _Parma_, to advise him of his near Approach, and inform him of the State of the Navy. In the mean time, the forementioned Ship of _Oquendo_ having been much damaged by the Fire, the _Spanish_ Admiral ordered, after the Officers, Men, and Money were removed into another Vessel, [Sidenote: PLATE 5.]that she should be abandoned, and set adrift[66]. Whereupon, the Lord High-Admiral sent the Lord _Thomas Howard_, and Captain _Hawkins_ in a small Skiff on board her, who found her in a very pitiful Condition. Her Decks were fallen in, the Steerage broken, the Stern blown out, and about fifty poor Creatures burnt with Powder in a most miserable manner. The Stench, as well as the horrible Spectacle, soon made them return to the Lord-Admiral; who ordered the Bark _Fleming_ to conduct her into some Port, and accordingly she was brought the next Day into _Weymouth_.

The Night following prov’d very calm; during which, the four Galleasses of _Naples_ singling themselves from the rest of the Enemy’s Fleet, gave Reason to suspect that they had a Design to distress some of the small _English_ Vessels, which were short of the Fleet; but their Courage failing them, they attempted nothing.

On the 23d the Wind turning to the North-East, the _Spaniards_ took the Advantage of it; and when they came over against _Portland_, tacked about upon the _English_, who presently tacked likewise, and stood in to the North-West, towards the Shore, as did the _Spaniards_ also. But that Course not being good for the _English_ to recover the Wind of the _Spaniards_, the former cast about to the Eastward. And, after several Attempts on both Sides to get the Weather-gage, the _Spaniards_ offering to board the _English_, a smart Engagement began, which was managed with Confusion enough, and with Variety of Success. The Enemy seeing several of the _English_ Ships waited their coming, particularly the _Ark_, the _Nonpareil_, the _Elizabeth-Jonas_, the _Victory_, _&c._ they fell a stern the _Nonpareil_, which was the hindmost Ship; and in the mean time, the _Triumph_, with the _Merchant-Royal_, the _Centurion_, the _Margaret_ and _John_, the _Mary-Rose_, and the _Golden-Lion_, were so far to the Leeward, and at such a Distance from the rest of the Fleet, that the Galleasses took Courage, and bearing down upon them, attacked them very vigorously; but they gave them a warm Reception for an Hour and a half, ’till some of her Majesty’s Ships came to their Relief.

The Wind then shifted to the South-East, and afterwards to the South-South-West; [Sidenote: PLATE 6.]whereupon a Body of _English_ Ships, and several Merchant-Men attacked the _Spanish_ Fleet so sharply to the Westward, that it was all forced to give way. The Lord-Admiral perceiving this, and observing at the same Time the Distress which the _Triumph_ and the five Ships above mentioned in her Company, were in, he ordered some Ships that were then near at hand, to follow him, and to set upon the _Spaniards_ a-fresh; and he strictly charged them, to go within Musket-Shot of the Enemy, before they discharged any one Piece of Ordnance, that they might have a better Mark, and more effectually succour the _Triumph_. This was immediately performed by the _Ark_, the _Elizabeth-Jonas_, the Galleon of _Leicester_, the _Golden Lion_, the _Victory_, the _Mary Rose_, the _Dreadnought_, and the _Swallow_; for in that order they proceeded. The Duke of _Medina_ perceiving their Design, came out with sixteen of his best Galleons, to intercept the Lord Admiral, and stop him from assisting the _Triumph_. But, after a very sharp Conflict, the _Spaniards_ were forced to give way, and for their greater Safety to gather themselves close into a Roundel, their best and largest Ships standing outermost, and fencing the lesser and the most battered. In this Conflict, _William Coxe_, Captain of a small Pinnace of Sir _William Winter_’s, nam’d the _Delight_, was slain by a great Shot, while he was bravely fighting against the Enemy.

Towards the Evening, four or five of the _Spanish_ Vessels edged out of the South-Westward, where they were met by some of our Ships; amongst which, the _May-Flower of London_ valiantly discharged some Pieces of Cannon at them; and, on this and other Occasions, that Ship’s Company behaved with great Resolution and Courage.

Thus the Fight continued from Morning till Night, being managed with great Bravery; but the _Spaniards_ Shot flew, for the most part, over the Heads of the _English_, without doing Execution[67]; the reason of which was, that the _English_ Ships being far less than the Enemy’s, made the Attack with more Quickness and Agility; and when they had given a Broad-Side, sheer’d off to a convenient Distance; and levell’d their Shot so directly at the larger and more unwieldy Ships of the _Spaniards_, as seldom to miss their Aim. Some advis’d the Lord-Admiral, with more Heat than Discretion, to grapple with and board them; but he thought it neither safe nor convenient; because the Enemy’s Fleet had a considerable Army on board, whereas ours had no such Advantage; besides their Ships far exceeded the _English_ in Number and Bulk, and were much stronger and higher built; insomuch that their Men having the Opportunity to ply the others from such lofty Decks, must inevitably have destroyed those that were obliged, as it were, to fight beneath them. And he foresaw likewise, that the Damage and Disgrace of a total Defeat would much outweigh the Advantage of a Victory, should he happen to obtain it; since, if he was vanquished, it would have much endangered the Safety of the whole Kingdom; but if he got the better, he could obtain no more than the naked Credit of putting a Fleet in Disorder, and baffling an Enemy.——In this Day’s Engagement, a great _Venetian_ Ship, with several other smaller ones were taken by the _English_[68].

On the 24th of _July_, there was but little done[69]; the Fight being only between four great Galleasses and some _English_ Vessels[70]. The _Spaniards_, upon this Occasion had great Advantage, since their Ships had Oars, and ours, by reason of a Calm, had no use of their Sails. However, the _English_ galled the Enemy very much with their Cannon and Chain-Shot; but at last, wanting Powder and other Necessaries to continue the Fight, the Lord Admiral sent some Vessels into the next Port for a Supply. In the mean time, a Council of War was held, wherein it was agreed, That the Fleet should be divided into four Squadrons, to be commanded, the first by the Lord Admiral himself in the _Ark-Royal_; the second by Sir _Francis Drake_ in the _Revenge_; the third by Captain _Hawkins_; and the fourth by Captain _Forbisher_. [71]This Afternoon, his Lordship gave order, that in the Night, six Merchant-Ships out of every Squadron (as being the lightest) should set upon the _Spanish_ Fleet in several Places at once; but it being calm all that Night, nothing could be done.

The next Morning, _July 25_, both [Sidenote: PLATE 7.]Fleets being come over against the Isle of _Wight_, (which the _Spaniards_ had resolved to make themselves Masters of,) and not above a hundred Yards asunder, a terrible Fight began[72]. The _St. Ann_, a large _Portuguese_ Galleon, being short of the rest to the Southward, because not able to keep up with them, was attack’d by some of Captain _Hawkins_’s Squadron, which stood next to it; who causing themselves to be towed along, attempted to board her, and went so close, that their Boats were beaten off with Musket-Shot: _Leva_ and Don _Diego Telles Enriques_ perceiving the Galleon’s Danger, issued out of the _Spanish_ Fleet with three Galleasses, and endeavoured to rescue her; but they were so warmly received by the Lord Admiral himself, and the Lord _Thomas Howard_ in the _Golden Lion_, who, by reason of the Calm, had their Ships tow’d along with Boats, that the Galleon was got off with much Difficulty, and not without Loss; for one of the Galleasses was forc’d to be carried away upon the Careen; another, by a Shot from the _Ark_, lost her Lanthorn; and the third her Peak-head. Thus many Shots were interchanged between the _Ark_ and _Lion_ and the Galleasses, in Sight of both Fleets, which looked on, and could not come near by reason of the Calm. At length it began to blow a small Gale, whereupon the _Spanish_ Fleet edged up to succour their Galleasses, and so rescued them; but so roughly were the Galleasses handled, that after this none of them would venture upon any new Engagement.

[73]Then the Fleets drawing near one another the Fight was renewed; but it did not continue long; except that the _Nonpareil_ and the _Mary Rose_ were for some time engaged with the Enemy, and striking their Topsails, lay a while by, and braved the whole Fleet of _Spain_. In the mean while, the _Triumph_, to the Northward of the _Spanish_ Fleet, was so far to Leward, that being apprehensive some of the Enemy might weather her, she towed off with the Help of several Boats, and so recovered the Wind. The _Bear_ and the _Elizabeth Jonas_ perceiving her in Distress, bore down to rescue her, and by their Boldness put themselves into the like Danger; but they, however, made their party good, ’till they had recovered the Wind. And thus ended this Day’s Fight, which was very sharp for the time.

[74]The _Spaniards_ gave a different Account of this Day’s Engagement; for they said that the _English_ did miserably batter, with their great Guns, the _Spanish_ Admiral, who lay in the rear; came so near him as to kill many of his Men; brought his Mainmast by the board; and he was in great Danger of being lost, had not _Mexia_ and _Recalde_ come timely to his Assistance; but that, after this, the _Spanish_ Admiral and his Men, seconded by _Recalde_, and others, set upon the _English_ Admiral, who by the turning of the Wind happily escaped; that the _Spaniards_ from that time gave over the Chace, and keeping on their Course, dispatch’d a Messenger to the Duke of _Parma_, to desire him to come and join the Armada with his own Squadron as soon as possible; and to send them withal some great Shot for the use of the main Fleet.

[75]However it be, the _English_ had so battered the Enemy in the last Conflict, that the latter had Recourse to the Form of a Roundel for their better Security.

[76]On _Friday, July 26_, the Lord High-Admiral sent for the Lord _Thomas Howard_ the Lord _Sheffield_, _Roger Townshend_, Captain _Martin Forbisher_, Captain _John Hawkins_, on board his own Ship the _Ark_; and there confer’d on them the Honour of Knighthood, as well for a Reward of their good Services in the late Engagement, as for an Encouragement to the rest of the Officers.

[77]Next, a Council of War being held, it was determined, as our Ships began to want Powder and Shot, that they should not attack the _Spaniards_ again ’till they came to the Streights of _Calais_; because they would there be joined and reinforced by the Squadron under the Command of the Lord _Henry Seymour_ and Sir _William Winter_, stationed in those Parts to block up the Duke of _Parma_; and might, at the same time, receive a plentiful Store of Ammunition from our Coasts.

[78]So the _Spanish_ Fleet sailed forward, [Sidenote: PLATE 8.]this and the best part of the next Day, with a gentle Gale at South-West and by South, the _English_ following them close, and driving them like Sheep before them; and so far was this Invincible Armada from alarming the Sea-Coasts with any frightful Apprehensions, that a great many of the young Nobility and Gentry entered themselves Volunteers, and taking leave of their Parents, Wives, and Children, did, with incredible Chearfulness, hire Ships at their own Charge; and, in pure Love to their Country, joined the Grand Fleet in vast numbers: [79]Among which were, the Earls of _Oxford_, _Northumberland_, and _Cumberland_; the Lord _Dudley_; Sir _Thomas_, Sir _Robert_, and _William Cecil_; Sir _Henry Brooke_, Sir _William Hatton_, Sir _Charles Blount_, Sir _Walter Raleigh_, Sir _Robert Carey_, Sir _Ambrose Willoughby_, Sir _Thomas Vavasor_, Sir _Horatio Pallavicini_; _Thomas Gerard_, _Henry Nowel_, _Edward Darcy_, _Thomas Woodhouse_, _William Harvey_, _Arthur Gorges_, and others; [80]and at the same time, the Justices of Peace in the maritime Counties, as also the Earl of _Sussex_, Sir _George Carey_, and the Captains of the Forts and Castles along the Sea-Coasts, sent Ships, Men, Powder, Shot, Victuals, and all kinds of Provisions, for the Relief and Assistance of the main Fleet.

[81]_July 27._ This Day, towards the Evening, the _Spanish_ Fleet came to an Anchor before _Calais_; [82]intending for _Dunkirk_, where they were to join the Prince of _Parma_’s Forces; [83]but their Pilots having told them, that, if they ventured any farther, they should be in danger of being carried away by the Force of the Tide into the Northern Channel, for that Reason they proceeded no farther than _Calais_; the _English_, on their part, followed them close, and anchored within Culverin-Shot of them; and, by the accession of the Ships under the Lord _Henry Seymour_ and Sir _William Winter_, consisted now of a hundred and forty Sail, all stout Ships, and nimble and good Sailors; tho’ the main Brunt of the Engagement lay but upon fifteen or sixteen of them.

The _Spaniards_ now sent several Messengers, one after another, to the Duke of _Parma_, to press and importune him to send out forty Fly-Boats to their Assistance; without which, by reason of the Unwieldiness of their Ships, they could not, as they said, engage the light and active Vessels of the _English_; they entreated him likewise, with great Earnestness, to use all Speed in embarking his Army, and be ready to take the first Opportunity, under their Protection, of landing in _England_; but it seems he was not ready, and so could not answer their Summons; his flat-bottom’d Boats were all leaky, his Provisions not yet all brought in, and his Sailors, who had been hitherto kept together against their Wills, had deserted in great numbers; besides, thirty five Men of War belonging to _Holland_ and _Zealand_, commanded by Count _Justin de Nassau_, continued to block up the very Mouth of the Harbours of _Dunkirk_ and _Nieuport_, from whence alone he could put to Sea; and so well were they furnished with great Guns and small Arms, that he could not possibly put from Shore, without running a very great and manifest Danger; however, intending as soon as he conveniently could, to join the _Spanish_ Fleet, he sent a Pinnace to inform the Duke of _Medina_, “[84]That he could not be ready for them ’till the _Friday_ following, _September 4_;” but the _Spanish_ Fleet was forced to depart before that time, in the utmost Hurry and Confusion.

[85]For, on _July 28_, the next Day [Sidenote: PLATE 9.]after their coming to an Anchor, the Lord Admiral, by the Queen’s express Command and Direction, singled out eight of his worst Ships; bestowed upon them good Plenty of Pitch, Tar, Rosin, and Wildfire; lined them well with Brimstone and other combustible Matter; and loaded all their Cannon with Bullets, Chains, and the like destructive Instruments; thus equip’d, he sent them with the Wind and Tide, about two o’ Clock in the Morning, into the midst of the _Spanish_ Fleet, under the Conduct of —— _Young_ and —— _Prowse_; who when they were come within Cannon-Shot, set Fire to the Trains, and then retired. The Approach of these Fire-Ships, and the dreadful Blaze which the Fire made all the Sea over, was no sooner perceived by the _Spaniards_, but it put their whole Fleet into the utmost Consternation. Many of the Soldiers on board had been at the Siege of _Antwerp_[86], and seen the destructive Machines made use of there: Suspecting therefore that these were big with other Engines of Slaughter, besides the destructive Element that show’d itself without, they began to raise a most hideous Clamour of, _Cut your Cables, or get up your Anchors_; [87]and in a panic Fright put to Sea with all the Confusion and Precipitancy imaginable.

[88]The _Spaniards_ reported, however, That their Admiral, upon the Approach of the Fire-Ships, made the Signal for weighing Anchor, and standing out to Sea; and ordered that each Ship, after the Danger was over, should return to her Station; that he did return himself, and fired a Gun as a Signal for the rest to do the like; but the Report thereof was heard but by few; because their Fears had so dispersed them, that some were got a considerable way out to Sea, and others among the Shoals on the Coast of _Flanders_.

However it was, the _Spanish_ Fleet being by this successful Stratagem thus driven from their Station in _Calais-Road_[89], another very sharp Engagement began the next Morning about Eight o’ Clock, _July 29_, and continued eight Hours. The chief Galleass, commanded by _Hugo de Moncada_, having in the last Night’s Confusion lost her Rudder, by falling foul of another Ship’s Cable, and floated up and down for some time before the Wind, endeavoured to save herself by rowing into [Sidenote: PLATE 10.]_Calais_ Harbour; which the Lord Admiral perceiving, he dispatch’d Mr. _Amias Preston_, one of his Lieutenants, into his Long-Boat, with Mr. _Thomas Gerrard_, Mr. _William Hervey_, and others, to take her; she did not however surrender ’till after a sharp and doubtful Dispute, wherein _Hugo de Moncada_ was killed, by a Shot in the Head; and the Soldiers and Rowers to the number of four hundred, either drowned or put to the Sword: [90]The Ship and Guns, after the _English_ had freed three hundred Galley-Slaves which were on board, and taken out fifty thousand Ducats of Gold, of the King of _Spain_’s Money, fell, as a Wreck to Monsieur _Gourden_, Governor of _Calais_[91].

[92]In the taking of this Galleass, Mr. _Gerard_ and Mr. _Harvey_ signalized themselves; for they entered it only with their Swords; a thing then commonly spoken of with Admiration, the like having never been hazarded before, considering the Height of this Galleass compar’d to a Ship’s Boat.

[93]The rest of the _Spaniards_ in the mean time, managed their Fleet as well as they could, and stood over against _Graveling_, where the _English_ once more getting the Weather-Gage of them, deprived them of the Conveniency of _Calais-Road_, and kept them from receiving any Supplies from _Dunkirk_.

[94]Whilst the Lord Admiral was employed in taking the forementioned Galleass, Sir _Francis Drake_ in the _Revenge_, with Mr. _Thomas Fennar_ in the _Nonpareil_, and the rest of his Squadron, warmly engaged the _Spanish_ Fleet; soon after Sir _John Hawkins_ in the _Victory_, accompanied with Mr. _Edward Fenton_ in the _Mary Rose_, Sir _George Beeston_ in the _Dreadnought_, Mr. _Richard Hawkins_ in the _Swallow_, and the rest of that Squadron; together with Sir _Robert Southwell_ in the _Elizabeth-Jonas_, and Mr. _Robert Cross_ in the _Hope_; bearing up with the Middle of the _Spanish_ Fleet, there continued all that Forenoon a furious Engagement, wherein Sir _George Beeston_ behaved himself very valiantly; they were in the mean time seconded by the Lord Admiral, the Lord _Thomas Howard_, and the Lord _Sheffield_, who also acquitted themselves very bravely: Astern of these a great Galleon was attack’d by the Earl of _Cumberland_ and Mr. _George Ryman_ in the _Bonaventure_, and was likewise battered by the Lord _Henry Seymour_ in the _Rainbow_, and Sir _William Winter_ in the _Vanguard_; and tho’ she then recovered the Fleet, yet she sunk the Night following.

[95]On the other hand, the Duke of _Medina_, with the rest of the _Spanish_ Captains, as _Leva_, _Oquendo_, _Recalde_, _&c._ having with much ado got clear of the Shallows, were forced to stand the Brunt of the _English_ Fire, ’till they were miserably torn, and in several Places shot through; [96]and a great Galleon of _Biscay_, of five hundred Tuns, with two Saicks, were sunk. The Galleon _St. Matthew_, of eight hundred Tuns, commanded by Don _Diego de Piementelli_, coming to the Assistance of Don _Francisco de Toledo_, in the _St. Philip_, another Galleon of seven hundred Tuns, they were both miserably shattered by the Lord _Henry Seymour_ and Sir _William Winter_; [97]and being driven on the Coast of _Ostend_, were likewise there roughly handled by the _Zealanders_; but _Piementelli_ refusing to leave his Ship, (though the Duke of _Medina_ sent him his own,) did all he could to disengage himself; and therefore making towards the Coast of _Flanders_, he was there again attacked by five _Dutch_ Men of War, and forc’d at last to strike to _Peter Dousa_[98], one of the _Dutch_ Captains, who carried him into _Zealand_ and, for a Trophy of his Victory, hung his Flag in the Church of _Leyden_, which reach’d from the top of it to the bottom; [99]during which, a _Castilian_ Ship of four hundred Tuns, was cast away on the _Flemish_ Coast. The _St. Philip_, after having been driven almost as far as _Ostend_, where her Commander left her because she proved extremely leaky, was seized by some Ships of _Flushing_.

Thus did the Fight continue for the best part of this whole Day; during which the _Spanish_ Fleet was closely pursued, extremely battered, and reduced to the utmost Distress[100]. The _English_ Commanders in general, shewed on all Occasions great Resolution and Bravery; and in this last Action, the Earl of _Cumberland_, the Lords _Henry Seymour_, _Thomas Howard_, and _Edmund Sheffield_; Sir _William Winter_, Sir _Robert Southwell_, Sir _George Beeston_, Sir _John Hawkins_; and the Captains _Edward Fenton_, _Richard Hawkins_, _George Ryman_, and [101]_Robert Cross_ signalized themselves in a remarkable manner; the latter, in particular, sunk the great Galleon of _Biscay_ above mentioned, and two other Vessels. As for the _Spaniards_, though some of them performed their Duty, and fought with great Bravery, yet, in general, they acted but faintly, and stood for the most part only upon the defensive, especially after they saw themselves disappointed of the Duke of _Parma_’s Assistance. “The Duke of _Medina_, we are told[102], to his Dishonour, was lodged in the Bottom of his Ship for his Safety, and the rest of the Commanders would never turn their Ships, nor stop them, to defend any of their own Friends that were forced to tarry behind, but suffered divers to perish; and so fearful was the Admiral, that if the _English_ had offered to board the _Spanish_ Ships, it was thought they would have yielded without making any Resistance.” [103]In this last Engagement the _Spaniards_ lost five thousand Men, a thousand whereof were drowned[104]; and the next Day two _Venetian_ Ships sunk, having eight hundred and forty three Men on board, which all perished.

[105]After this Fight there remained of the whole _Spanish_; Fleet but one hundred and ten, or one hundred and twelve Ships, and those extremely battered and shot through, and having their Rigging much damaged with the Shot.

[106]The next Day, _July 30_, the Lord Admiral ordered the Lord _Henry Seymour_, and Sir _William Winter_ to return back with their Squadron into the narrow Seas, to guard the Coasts; as for himself, he resolved to follow the _Spanish_ Fleet, ’till they came as far Northward as the _Forth_ in _Scotland_, if they bent their Course that way; and, in the mean time, he thought it best not to attack them any more, ’till he saw what they proposed to do: However, being persuaded that they intended to put into the Firth of _Forth_, his Lordship had devised Stratagems, and taken Measures to make an utter End of them there.

[107]_July 31._ This Day the _Spaniards_ would fain have retreated, early in the Morning, thro’ the Streights of _Dover_; but the Wind coming up with hard Gales at North West, forced them towards the Coast of _Zealand_; the _English_ then gave over the Chace, because they perceived them hastening fast enough to their own Destruction; for with the Wind at West North-West, they could not fail of being driven among the Shallows and Sands of that Coast: But the Wind soon happening to come about to the South-West and by West, the _Spaniards_ tacked, and sailing before the Wind, got out of Danger. In the Evening, they held a Council of War, wherein it was unanimously resolved[108], That seeing they were in want of many Necessaries, especially of Cannon-Ball, that the Ships were very much shattered, their Anchors left in _Calais-Road_, their Provisions short, their Water spent, a great number of their Soldiers slain, many of their Men sick and wounded, and that there was no hopes of the Duke of _Parma_’s coming out to join them, they should return to _Spain_, by the North of _Scotland_. Pursuant to this Resolution, being now out of Danger, and in the main Ocean, and having thrown all their Horses and Mules over board [Sidenote: GENERAL CHART.]to save Water, they steer’d Northward, and the _English_ renew’d the Chace after them; now and then the _Spanish_ Ships slacken’d their Sails, and seem’d to stay for the coming up of the _English_, so that it was generally thought their Fleet would tack about, but they thought best, after all, to keep on their Course Northward.

* * * * *

Here it will not be improper to leave them for a while, and see what was doing in the mean time in _England_[109].

The 9th of _August_ Queen _Elizabeth_ was pleased, in order both to comfort her People, and to shew her own Magnanimity, to come and view her Army and Camp at _Tilbury_; the next Morning after her Arrival, she rode with a General’s Truncheon in her Hand, thro’ all the Ranks of the Army, like armed _Pallas_, attended by the Earls of _Leicester_ and _Essex_, _Henry Norris_, Lord Marshall, and others; having the Sword carried before her by the Earl of _Ormond_; and among other kind and obliging Discourses, made the following most excellent Speech to her Army[110]:

MY LOVING PEOPLE,

_WE have been persuaded by some that are careful of our Safety, to
take heed how we commit ourselves to armed Multitudes; but I assure
you, I do not desire to live to distrust my faithful and loving
People. Let Tyrants fear; I have always so behaved myself, that
under_ GOD _I have placed my chiefest Strength and Safeguard in the
loyal Hearts and Good-Will of my Subjects; and therefore I am come
amongst you, as you see at this time, not for my Recreation and
Disport, but being resolved, in the Midst and Heat of the Battle, to
live or die amongst you all; to lay down for my_ GOD, _and for my
Kingdom, and for my People, my Honour and my Blood, even in the
Dust. I know I have the Body but of a weak and feeble Woman, but I
have the Heart and Stomach of a King, and of a King of_ England
_too; and think foul Scorn that_ Parma _or_ Spain, _or any Prince
of_ Europe, _should dare to invade the Borders of my Realm; to
which, rather than any Dishonour shall grow by me, I myself will
take up Arms, I myself will be your General, Judge, and Rewarder of
every one of your Virtues in the Field. I know already for your
Forwardness, you have deserved Rewards and Crowns; and we do assure
you, in the Word of a Prince, they shall be duly paid you. In the
mean time, my Lieutenant-General shall be in my stead, than whom
never Prince commanded a more noble or worthy Subject; not doubting
but by your Obedience to my General, by your Concord in the Camp,
and your Valour in the Field, we shall shortly have a famous Victory
over those Enemies of my_ GOD, _of my Kingdoms, and of my People_.

[111]It is scarce to be conceived what a Spirit of Bravery this great Queen’s Presence and noble Behaviour infus’d into the Officers and Soldiers: [112]They saluted her with Cries, with Shouts, with all Tokens of Love, of Obedience, and of Readiness to fight for her; they praised her stately Person and princely Behaviour, prayed for her Life and Happiness, and cursed all her Enemies, both Traitors and Papists, with earnest Desire to venture their Lives for her Safety: [113]One who was an Eye Witness relates moreover, that “the whole Armie in every Quarter, did devoutely, at certaine Times, sing in her hearing, in a very tunable manner, divers Psalmes put into Forme of Prayers in Praise of Almighty GOD, which she greatly commended, and with very earnest Speech thanked GOD with them[114].”

Next, if we look into _Flanders_, we shall find, [115]that on the 29th of _July_, the Duke of _Parma_ having paid his Addresses to our Lady of _Halle_, came to _Dunkirk_, tho’ something of the latest; for which Reason the _Spaniards_ received him in a very reproachful manner; as if, out of some By-Regards to Queen _Elizabeth_, he had designedly slipt so fair an Opportunity of doing Wonders for the Service of his Country. The Duke, to appease this Storm, punish’d those who had the Charge of Victualling his Fleet; but, however, he did not attempt to put to Sea, being still block’d up by the Lord _Henry Seymour_’s and Sir _William Winter_’s Squadron, which were returned from the Chace. In the mean time, he could not but secretly laugh at the saucy and insolent Brags of the _Spaniards_, whom he had heard talking at this vain rate, “That where ever they turn’d their Sails, a most certain Victory waited upon their Course, and that the _English_ would not have Courage enough to look them in the Face.”

* * * * *

To return now to the two Fleets. We left the _Spaniards_ sailing Northward, and the _English_ in Pursuit of them: [116]When the latter were come to fifty five Degrees thirteen Minutes North Latitude, and thirty Leagues East of _Newcastle_, the Lord High Admiral determined to attack the _Spanish_ Fleet again on the _Friday_ following, _August 2_, but he thought fit to alter his Resolution, chiefly upon these two Accounts: Because he plainly perceived by the Enemies Course, that they had no other Intention but to save themselves, by sailing North, round the _British_ Islands; and, because several of his Ships wanted Victuals and other Necessaries; which was not so much owing to any Neglect, as to the Victuallers not knowing where to send to the Fleet; for the Queen had most amply and carefully provided whatever was convenient and necessary.

It was therefore concluded, to leave the _Spanish_ Fleet to pursue their Course, and to sail for the Firth of _Forth_; both to get Refreshment, and to perform some other Business which the Lord Admiral thought necessary to be done; but the Wind coming contrary, that is Westerly, the next Day his Lordship altered his Course, and sending only some Advice-Boats to observe the Enemies farther Motion, he returned with the whole Fleet back to _England_, where they arrived, some at _Yarmouth_, some at _Harwich_, and others at the _Downs_, about the 7th of _August_.

The _Spaniards_ being now got clear of their troublesome Pursuers, resolv’d to make the best of their way for _Spain_. [117]Some Suspicions there were, that they design’d to betake themselves to the King of _Scots_, who was provok’d to an high degree for his Mother’s Death; and therefore, the better to keep him in Temper, _Ashby_, the Queen of _England_’s Ambassador in _Scotland_, made him very considerable Offers, which, however, were not performed: But the _Spaniards_ having now laid aside all Thoughts and Hopes of returning to attack the _English_; and perceiving their main Safety lay in their Flight, they made no Stop at any Port whatever. [118]About twenty five Ships now remain’d with the Duke of _Medina_, and forty with _Recalde_; [119]these, with the rest of the Fleet, sail’d about _Cathness_ for the Coast of _Ireland_, and pass’d between the _Orcades_ and _Fair-Isle_, to the sixty first Degree of North Latitude; [120]an unaccustom’d Place for the young Gallants of _Spain_, that had never felt Storms on the Sea, or cold Weather in _August_.

[121]When the _English_ left off pursuing the _Spaniards_, the latter wanted of their whole Fleet fifteen or sixteen Ships; and had lost, in the several Engagements, and by Sickness, eight thousand Men at least.

And here their ill Fortune did not stop, but continued to persecute them all the rest of their Voyage; [122]for on the Coast of _Scotland_ they lost the two following Ships, which had been so extremely battered by the _English_ Shot, that they founder’d at Sea; namely, the _St. Matthew_, a Ship of five hundred Tuns, in which four hundred and fifty Men were drowned; and a Biscainer of _St. Sebastian’s_, of four hundred Tuns, in which three hundred and fifty Men perished: [123]Moreover, in these or other Ships, above seven hundred Soldiers were cast on Shore in _Scotland_, who, by the Duke of _Parma_’s Mediation with the King of _Scots_, and with Queen _Elizabeth_’s Permission, were sent over, a Year after, into the _Low-Countries_.

[124]About four Days after the _English_ Fleet left the _Spaniards_, they came to an Island in the North Part of _Scotland_, where they staid not, nor had any Relief: And at this Place the Duke of _Medina_ calling all the Ships together, charged them to make the best of their way for the Coasts of _Spain_ or _Portugal_, because they were in the utmost Distress for want of Victuals and other Provisions.

[125]For an Addition to their Misfortunes, about the 23d of _August_, when there were seventy eight Ships of them together sailing in the Ocean, a violent Storm arose at South-South-West, which continued from Four o’ Clock in the Afternoon ’till Ten the next Morning, and separated them so, that not above twenty seven of them were to be seen together: And again, on the 2d of _September_, they had another violent Storm, with a Mist, which so dispersed them, that of the foresaid twenty seven, only three came together into _Dingle-Bay_; [126]and during their Passage round the North of _Scotland_, they had so terrible a Sickness, that their Mariners and Soldiers died daily in great Multitudes.

As for the Particulars of the Ships sunk, and Men drowned, killed, and taken upon the Coast of _Ireland_, during the Month of _September_, they were as follows[127]:

Men.

In _Tirconnel_, in _Loughfoyle_ 1 Ship 1100
and
others
that
escaped.

{in 3 great Ships 1500
_Slego-Haven_

{in _Tirawley_ 1 Ship 400

{in 1 300
_Clare-Island_

In _Connaught_, {in _Finglasse_ 1 400

{in 1 200
_O’sla’rtie_

{in _Irrise_ 2 Ships, the
Men
escaped
into
other
Vessels.

{in 1 Ship 70
_Gallway-Bay_

{in the 2 Ships 600
_Shannon_

{in the same 1 Ship burnt, the
Men
embarked
in
another
Ship.

In _Munster_, {in _Traylie, 1 Ship 24
Sept. 7._

{in _Dingle_ 1 500

{in _Desmond, 1 300
Sept. 10._

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
In all 17 Men
Ships. 5394
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────

[128]Besides which, _Our Lady of the Rosary_, the Admiral Ship of the _Guypuscoan_ Squadron, of near a thousand Tuns, and thirty Guns, that had fifty Brass Field-Pieces on board, was lost upon the Rocks in _Bleskey-Sound_; so that of five hundred Men, only one escap’d; and in this perished the Prince of _Ascula_, a natural Son of King _Philip_, _Mighel de Oquendo_ the Captain, and several other considerable and eminent Persons.

According to other Accounts[129], nine _Spanish_ Ships were driven ashore between the Rivers of _Lough-Foile_ and _Lough-Swilley_, many whereof were broken to Pieces, and the _Spaniards_ forced to shelter among the wild _Irish_.

[130]As for such of the _Spaniards_ as had the ill Fortune to be drove upon the _Irish_ Shore, they met with the most barbarous Treatment; for some of them were butcher’d by the wild _Irish_, and the rest put to the Sword by the Lord Deputy Sir _William Fitz-Williams_, who fearing they might join with the _Irish_ Malecontents, and observing that _Bingham_, Governor of _Connaught_ treated them with more Gentleness than he had several times ordered him to do; upon their Surrender, he dispatched _Fowle_, Deputy Marshal, to execute his Orders; who first dislodg’d them from the Places where they lay conceal’d, and then executed about two hundred of them: But this Rigour the Queen condemn’d, and complain’d of as too extreme: However, the rest being terrified by this way of proceeding, tho’ they were sick and half famish’d, yet chose to trust themselves to their shatter’d Barks, and the Mercy of the Seas; and so became many of them a Sacrifice to the Waves. The Duke of _Medina_, with twenty or twenty five Ships, keeping in the Ocean, return’d to _Spain_.

[131]About forty of the _Spanish_ Ships fell in with the _Irish_ Coast, and intended to touch at Cape _Clear_, in hopes of meeting there with some Refreshment; but the Wind proving contrary, and the Weather tempestuous, many of them perish’d on that Coast; [132]of those that got off, some were driven by a strong West Wind into the _English_ Channel, where part of them were attack’d again and taken by the _English_, others by the _Rochellers_, and some arriv’d at _Newhaven_ (or _Havre de Grace_) in _Normandy_.

Such were the _Spaniards_ Losses of Men and Ships, in their return round _Ireland_.

The Losses they had suffered before, were thus:

Loss Men.
of
Ships.

_July_ 21. The _Spanish_ 1 40
Vice-Admiral Ship
disabled at the first
Engagement near
_Eddystone_,

D. _Pedro de Valdez_’s 1 422
Gall. taken

_Oquendo_’s Ship, _St. 1 289
Anne_, burnt

_July_ 23. A great _Venetian_ Ship, 1
and other smaller
ones,} taken

The chief Galleass, 1 686
taken

A great Galleon, 1
sunk

A Galleon of _Biscay_ 1
sunk

Two Saicks 2
sunk

The Galleon, _St. Matth._ 1 397
taken

The Galleon _St. Philip_ 1 532
taken

both by the
_Flushingers._

A _Castilian_ Ship 1
wreck’d

30. Two _Venetian_ Ships 2 843
sunk

_Aug._ The _St. Matthew_ sunk 1 450

A _Biscayner_ 1 350
sunk

both on the Coast of
_Scotland_.

Two lost upon the Coast 2
of _Norway_,

──────────────────────────────────────────────────
Total Men
of 8000
Ships at
18 least.
──────────────────────────────────────────────────

So that by adding their several Losses together, it plainly appears, they lost THIRTY FIVE Ships, and above THIRTEEN THOUSAND Men; besides many others of which no Estimate was or could be made[133]; and above two thousand Prisoners were taken in the Fight in _Ireland_, and the _Low-Countries_: Those taken in _Ireland_ were brought to _England_[134], and confined in _Bridewell_ ’till they were ransomed. The most eminent of the Prisoners were, Don _Pedro de Valdez_, Don _Vasquez de Silvea_, Don _Alonzo de Sayes_, and others taken in the Channel; in _Ireland_, Don _Alonzo de Luzon_, _Roderigo de Lasso_, _&c._ in _Zealand_, Don _Diego Piementelli_, _&c._ In a Word, there was hardly a noble Family in all _Spain_, that did not lose a Son, a Brother, or a Kinsman; upon which account the Mourning was so universal in that whole Kingdom, [135]that King _Philip_ was obliged by Proclamation to shorten the usual Time; as the _Romans_ of old, upon their great Defeat of _Cannæ_, found it necessary to limit the publick Mourning to thirty Days.

[136]The shatter’d Remains of the _Spanish_ Fleet after having weather’d many Storms, and suffered all the Inconveniences of War and Weather, arriv’d at last, about the End of _September_, at _St. Andero_, and other Ports of _Spain_, laden with nothing but Shame and Dishonour. The Duke of _Medina_ was forbid the Court, and ordered to go and live privately; _Martinez de Recalde_ died immediately after his Return; and two of their Ships were accidentally burnt in the Harbour not long after their Arrival. Surely such a Series of ill Success was hardly ever known in any other Age or Nation.