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Mary Queen of Scots, signed letter the Laird of Barnbarrock

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arc02194
Mary Queen of Scots, signed letter the Laird of Barnbarrock
Sheffield
1571
1500-1799

Signed by Mary during her imprisonment at Sheffield in 1571.

Modern translation:

Truest friend.

We greet you well.

Since the Reverend father in God, our trusty cousin and counsellor the Bishop of Galloway (who as a faithful commissioner has well and diligently done his duty in treating with the Queen our good sister, for some time past, for our restitution and for the relief of you our good subjects) has come to these parts and can more fully inform you of the whole proceeding than it is possible for us by our letters to make you understand; then let him suffice you, and credit him as ourself.

There is no need (notwithstanding this new delay) to despair of our obtaining what we have long sued for, for our said good sister has made plain demonstration of her will and intention to have us restored; and the rebellious commissioners promise to return speedily with a commission from the rest of their faction (which they alleged they had not got) to treat with her and with us.

Therefore we pray you in the meantime to abide constant at our obedience, showing openly your profession of it, and to agree together without pretence on all occasions, and finally to declare yourselves now as you wish us to consider you for ever.

And as this will be for our benefit, you shall not find that we abandon you or leave you in any extremity but assure you of sufficient support and relief in such time as is already arranged for.

And so wishing always [continual increase of your [the next word is torn] our devotion] we commit you to God.

At Sheffield the last day of April 1571.

Your very good friend

MARY R.

Original at Sheffield City Archives ref. MD1887/1.

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