may now be sent to Dover. It’s now the beginning of August and this amount will cover tackle, ropes, canvas and food – a good supply of which would be sent to Dover. With these things and God’s blessing, our kingdom can be kept safe - if this matter is neglected, great danger may come. This is a short and simple letter to your Lordship as your wisdom and experience is great, but this is an event which hasn’t been seen in our time or in the past. And so praying to God for a happy rescue from the harmful and dangerous actions of our enemy, I humbly say goodbye from my ship, the Victory, at sea on the 31st of July 1588.

The Spaniards are sailing towards Scotland, and my Lord (Lord Admiral) is following them. If God is on our side, we will prevent them landing. Food, money, gunpowder and shot must be ordered and sent to us.

In your Lordship’s service
John Hawkins

This is a copy of the letter which I sent to the Lord Treasurer, so that I don’t have to write a separate letter to you as well. Help us with the supplies and with God’s favour we shall put an end to their plans.

Your Honour’s ever loyal
John Hawkins

I beg your honour to stick with this, for it is written in a hurry.