But before we come there, you shall understand what was instantly done at Berwick by Sir John Carey, upon the news brought by Sir Robert his brother. Who, like a worthy soldier and politic Statesman, considering it was a town of great import and a place of war [Berwick was the Portsmouth of England at this time, and bridled Scotland]; he caused all the garrison to be summoned together, as also the Mayor, Aldermen, and Burgesses: in whose presence he made a short and pithy Oration, including Her Majesty's death, and signifying the intent of the State for submitting to their lawful Lord.
And presently, with great contentment of all parties, His Majesty was proclaimed King of England, Scotland, France, etc. on Saturday, in the afternoon, being the 26th of March [1603], about three of the clock. Where all the people, though they grieved for their late Queen; yet was grief suddenly turned to pleasure, in expectation of their new King. But we will post from Berwick after Sir Robert Carey, and overtake him in Edinburgh.
You understood before, that Sir Robert came to Edinburgh on Saturday night; where, being admitted to the King, be-blooded with great falls and bruises, [he] brought His Highness the first news of Queen Elizabeth's death: which howsoever it presented him with kingdoms, glory, and immense wealth; yet, like his royal self, he showed apparent signs of princely sorrow. And dismissing Sir Robert Carey, after so great toil, to his repose: His Majesty continued in his grief; and through that, expressed his true piety.
It was thought necessary in so high affairs to let slip no occasion, however sorrow particularly touched His Majesty for the loss of his private friend and royal Sister; yet the general care as well of those his people in Scotland as for us in England, caused him on Sunday, being the 27th of March [1603], to despatch [John Bothwell] the Bishop of Holyroodhouse to Berwick: that he might receive the town to his use, as the nearest place wherein, by right, he claimed possession.
Who accordingly, making all the speed he might, came to Berwick; where of the Governor he was honourably entertained: and, after signifying His Majesty's pleasure, reposed himself for that night.
On Monday, being the 28th of March, by sound of trumpet, the Governor, Mayor, Officers, and Council of the town were assembled at the Cross; where there the Governor [Sir John Carey] surrendered to the Bishop of Holyroodhouse his staff and all his authority, unto the King's Majesty's use. So likewise did the Mayor deliver up the keys of the town.
And the said Bishop, being thus seised of all authority to His Majesty's use, ministered the Oath of Allegiance unto the Governor, Mayor, and the Superior Officers belonging to the garrison and to the town.
Which oath taken, the Bishop of Holyroodhouse (expressing the gracious intention of His Majesty, as well to them as all others his subjects of England whom he found like them affected: which was rather to maintain, than to infringe, their Charters; to give, than to take from them anything) redelivered the keys and staff of authority to the Mayor and Governor. So likewise to every Commander, Captain, Lieutenant, and whatsoever Office they had before Her Majesty's death, there, in the King's name, he confirmed them: to their great joy and contentment. Thus spent the Lord of Holyroodhouse the first part of Monday in Berwick; and dined with the Magistrates.