Reference code: GB-0298-LC/P7
Title: Richard Russell Letters
Dates of creation: 1667-1686
Extent: 2 files
Held by: Ushaw College Library
Origination: Lisbon College
Language:
English
Richard Russell was born in Berkshire in 1630. When he was just twelve years old, he became servant to Dr. Edward Daniel, newly appointed President of Lisbon College. Five years later he was admitted as an alumnus to the college but was ordained
in Douai College in 1653. Following a brief spell as procurator at Lisbon College, he was summoned back to England by the Chapter in 1657, where he spent three years as a chaplain to the Portuguese ambassador. On his return to Portugal he received
the title of Secretary to the Queen, and a pension, in consideration of his services to the crown of Portugal. He played a leading role in the marriage treaty of Charles II and Catherine of Braganza and was elected a canon of the English Chapter in
1661. In 1671, he was appointed as Bishop of Portalegre and, eleven years later, was transferred to the diocese of Vizéu. He died in 1693.
Letters from Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson, president of the English College in Lisbon, and others, mostly covering Russell's time as bishop of Portalegre and, later, bishop of Vizéu. The letters shed light on various aspects of college
life during the late-seventeenth century, notably its financial administration, teaching, and student intake, as well as various controversies including accusations of Blacklowism within the college. Russell's prominent role within the Portuguese
church is also represented in the correspondence, evident in discussions of episcopal visitations, various disputes over jurisdiction with the clergy, relations with the Syon nuns, and other internal affairs. Finally, the letters reveal Russell's
connections with notable Portuguese families and recusant English Catholic gentry (including the Dukes of Norfolk and the Earls of Derwentwater), with the latter in particular ensuring that Russell was particularly well informed of the rise in
anti-Catholicism and the renewed threat of persecution of the Catholics in England following the uncovering of the Popish Plot in 1678.
Lisbon College closed in 1973 and this collection, along with the rest of the Lisbon Archive and Library, was transferred to Ushaw College by Mgr James Sullivan the following year.
Open for consultation.
Permission to make any published use of material from the collection must be sought in advance from the Lisbonian Society and, where appropriate, from the copyright owner. The Library will assist where possible with identifying copyright owners,
but responsibility for ensuring copyright clearance rests with the user of the material
The papers follow the original arrangement of the collection which is broadly chronological.
Calendared card catalogue
M. Sharratt,
“Bishop Russell and John Sergeant”,
Ushaw Magazine, 255 (1979), pp. 22-37
LC/P7/1 19 February 1667
Humphrey Waring (Eliis) for Chapter to President (Barnesley/Perrot): Chapter unanimously approving proposed contract between college and Russell over lease or purchase of a college house situated by the church
1f
LC/P7/2 16 September 1667
Richard Russell (London) to Matthias Watkinson: thanking him for “conclusion” (thesis sheet), expressing surprise in hearing from the president that Watkinson has accepted a Divinity lectureship for only one year,
reassuring him and Martin that the clergy have confidence in him, the successor in the Chapter to Mr Powell and proposing J.W. [probably John Williams] so long as he completes his divinity treatise
2f
LC/P7/3 18 August 1669
Richard Russell (at Lisbon) to R. Hesketh (procurator): receipt for 78 mil and 197 res
1f
LC/P7/4 16 December 1669
John Marks (Chaplain at Syon to the President of Lisbon College: his strict interpretation of the rules against visiting nuns
2f
LC/P7/5 [1671]
Richard Russell to the Dean and Chapter: taking leave from his position in the Chapter and recommending the college to the care of the Chapter
1f
LC/P7/6 8 March 1672
Richard Russell and Domingo de Herde to Watkinson: forward a letter from the Prior of the Dominican Convent at Antwerp concerning the transfer of money, with Russell suggesting that payment be made via Lord Philip Howard
2f
LC/P7/7 17 May 1672
Richard Russell (at Niza) to Matthias Watkinson: discussing the character of the Protector (Diogo Velho), praising the procurator for his catechising, and the beginning of his (Russell's) episcopal visit to Niza and the popularity of his
strictness with lax priests
1f
LC/P7/8 24 May 1672
Richard Russell (at Niza) to Matthias Watkinson: procuratorial matters, his intention to oppose a local secular official who has caused trouble to the clergy and laity at Niza, his financial account with the college, and a reference for George
Neville
1f
LC/P7/9 31 August 1672
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Fisher staying with him, an outbreak of smallpox at the college, his aunt and niece pleased with their relations' entertainment at Portalegre, and advising him to obtain his payment to Mr Holbeck
2f
LC/P7/10 4 November 1672
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: recovery of students from the smallpox outbreak including John Allen and Henry Har[nage], Fisher about to leave, and hoping that the procurator will spend Christmas at Portalegre
1f
LC/P7/11 5 October 1672
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: wishing Watkinson could devote more time to his presidency, the increase of piety effected by the procurator, his worries over Frank [probably Francis Russell] and fearing he may die, storm at Portalegre and
his hope that no damage has been done to the college buildings, and asking Fisher to pay Mr Hill for wine for Lord Baltimore
This letter is damaged
2f
LC/P7/12 18 October 1672
1f
This letter is badly damaged and the latter part of the letter is missing
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: mentioning storm damage, Brother George's fall
LC/P7/13 2 November 1672
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the need for the procurator to start giving orders to the students now that he is consecrated, the Bishop of Constancia, and offering to gild the altar of Our Lady
1f
LC/P7/14 9 November 1672
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the possibility of having to contribute to a subsidy from Church money and his plan to write to the Pope because it infringes ecclesiastical immunity, the affect of this on the college rents, his letter from
the president of the Mesa de Consciencia, and employing P. Brett
1f
LC/P7/15 29 November 1672
Richard Russell (Arronches) to Matthias Watkinson: recounting how he asserted his authority over a troublesome lay official, describing Arronches and the surrounding country including ruined buildings as a result of the war with Spain, and
disputes over houses given to the college by Coutinho
2f
LC/P7/16 28 December 1672
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Jose de Almeida from Arronches (an Augustine) staying with him, and sending regards to Dyonisia de Azevedo's daughter
2f
LC/P7/17 11 January 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the education of his children, visit of the General of S. Barnardo and election of Donna B. Perira as Abbess and a dispute over the relative dignity of bishop and abbot, and Robert N[eville's] promise
1f
LC/P7/18 20 February 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: conditions of a gift to the college of 6,000 crowns
Includes copy
2f
LC/P7/19 22 March 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his success in a dispute with the Conservadores de Malta over clergy's rights, his wish for the procurator's help in his suit with the Conde de Miranda, the death of Gilbert, his ordination of Sylvestre
Correa de Sylva as deacon, requiring an English tailor in his household, urging Watkinson to take his degree, his intention to visit Elvas in Easter week, and wishing Antonio Ferreira to know that Portalegre is short of physicians and the need to
write to the Prince on the subject
2f
LC/P7/20 5 April 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Donna Joanna Coutinho willing to look after his niece and teach her language and manners, planning to call on the Conde de Miranda at Apalhao, the Canon Penitentiary about to set off for Lisbon, and the
suitability of John Brett's brother as tailor
2f
LC/P7/21 18 April 1673
Richard Russell (at Ponte de Sor) to Matthias Watkinson: Donna Joanna Coutinho's to look after his niece, the Canon Penitentiary's arrival in college, people flocking for confirmation, his hopes about the Parliament, and Reynolds staying with
him
2f
LC/P7/22 26 April 1673
Richard Russell (Niza) to Matthias Watkinson: asking him not to starve the Canon Penitentiary, his (Russell's) involvement in contests with friars over episcopal jurisdiction, and asking for prayers of Syon nuns and of students
1f
LC/P7/23 10 May 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Sylvestre Correa unable to devote the time to preparing the papers for the Monteiro Mor, his hopes in successfully winning the jurisdiction dispute, his belief that episcopal vacancies (occurring while
Portugal was trying to re-establish its independence) have allowed military orders to usurp powers poorly defended by Chapters, his desire to exert his authority if friars go beyond their privileges, his belief that the college will not get a Jesuit
Protector, and his offer of a piece of gold for gilding the Lady Altar in the college
This letter is damaged
1f
LC/P7/24 17 May 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his displeasure that Wilkinson has not been working on his degree, sending thanks to Donna Joanna de Coutinho, Monteiro Mor appointed president of the Mesa de Consciencia, Wilkinson's query about titles and
arms of Lord Almoner, dangerous illnesses in Lisbon, and Fisher may send glazier and tailor
2f
LC/P7/25 2 August 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: informing him that he has sent a procuration to recover the 6,000 crowns and arrangements to pay the procurator
1f
LC/P7/26 6 August 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the settlement of a matter, Russell's friendship with J. de Almeida, criticism of R. Mestre's conduct, expenses for the Misericordia [?in Portalegre], his letter to Parry [British Ambassador] on the Duke of
York and the Lord Treasurer declaring their Catholic allegiance and hoping that he has not offended Parry
1f
LC/P7/27 27 September 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: apologising that letters he sent to Queen [Catharine] via Parry have not arrived, Dr G[?odden's] recall of Mr Edwards, Portalegre's heat wave, his lack of trouble with the Prior of S. Iago (belonging to the
Knights of Malta); case of possession which Reynolds will describe, and has sent two sacks of flax to his sister (Sr Maria Russell) at Syon
1f
LC/P7/28 18 October 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Prince wanting Russell to attend Cortes at the college and arrangements for visiting, and his dispute with J. de Almeida and arguing that it is in the interests of the bishops of Portugal to ensure that his
Accordao da Relaçao is upheld
2f
LC/P7/29 21 October 1673
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: intending to go via Ponte de Sor to Santarem on the way to Lisbon, Canon Penitentiary accompanying him, unrest among the clergy over Russell's decision to send some for further training, and his wish to
obstruct J. de Almeida
2f
LC/P7/30 10 October 1674
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: wanting six Portuguese versions of John of St Thomas's catechism from the Irish Dominicans, John Sergeant being a disciple of Blacklow (White), accusations by G. Leyburne of Blacklowism in the college and
subsequent investigations ordered by the Nuncio
2f
LC/P7/31 10 October 1674
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: arrangements for sending letters to England via Charles Watkinson
1f
LC/P7/32 9 January 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Reynold's illness, Luis Cordeiro's uncle (the Mestre Scholla) being placed under house arrest by Russell's Vicar General (Garro) after disorder at High Mass, and Colonel Naper's illness
2f
LC/P7/33 16 January 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: sending money to pay Watkinson's rent, and wishing to buy a present for Ruy Dias Galliano who entertained him on his visit to Niza
1f
LC/P7/34 30 January 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: no news of the crucifix altar, his plans to start the visitation of the diocese, asking for statement of his account with the college, and informing him that there is now a mediator for the clergy
quarrel
1f
LC/P7/35 7 February 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: thanking Wilkinson for sending a cook, and plans to send his third nephew to the college
1f
LC/P7/36 13 February 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: a misunderstanding over Russell's money, his plan to send the Vicar General for a stay in London, expressing surprise that Wilkinson wants Russell to take in an Irishman as his secretary on the
recommendation of Sir William Godolphin, Reynolds intending to leave on the Queen's frigate, Fisher leaving college, wine for Lord Baltimore, the death of the archbishop of Evora, and informing him of Donna Leonor de Miranda Enriques going to the
Convent of Santa Cruz and hoping to get a divorce
1f
LC/P7/37 27 February 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Wilkinson getting money for the college, Underhill indispensable, ordinands are welcome guests, Russell's account with Wilkinson
2f
LC/P7/38 7 March 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the scandalous Bishop of Liria, his (Russell's) servant taking up with a negress slave, and payment of Fisher's travelling expenses
1f
LC/P7/39 13 March 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: a dispute with Watkinson over money, and Reynold's decision to leave the college
This letter is damaged
1f
LC/P7/40 28 March 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Reynolds and Fisher sailing with Warner, his (Russell's) desire for an English secretary (ideally Underhill) to replace Reynolds, and setting free a slave and sending her to Lisbon
1f
LC/P7/41 10 April 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the death of Russell's mother and asking each priest in college to say five Masses for his mother, and his worries over the position of Catholics in England and possible persecution
1f
LC/P7/42 17 April 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: hoping that [?Fisher and Reynolds] will not suffer persecution in England, freeing a negress, and Underhill's appointment
1f
LC/P7/43 29 April 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: informing him that Smith (John Warham) and Bromwich have been ordained by Russell, and his servant (Manoel's) promise to behave
This letter is badly faded
2f
LC/P7/44 30 April 1675
Richard Russell (at Niza) to Matthias Watkinson: describing arrangements for the return of Smith and Bromwich, looking forward to the arrival of Underhill, his plan to explain to Diogo Velho the case of the Mestre Scholla, and the submissive
nature of the friars of the Mestrado owing to his initial firmness
1f
LC/P7/45 13 May 167[?5]
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: sending cloth to Prior Diogo de Almeida, ordering cloth for students, and Underhill on his way
1f
LC/P7/46 22 March 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Underhill's arrival and his lack of books, and Russell hoping for a dictionary by Thomas Thomasius and the third volume of Salmanticenses's
Cursus Moralis
1f
LC/P7/47 23 May 1675
Maria Aires Castelbranco to [?]: her daughter's wish to be a nun
Endorsed by Russell
2f
LC/P7/48 10 June 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: asking him to bring back a case of knives, Manoel de Costa's rescript from the Nuncio, and John Betts
1f
LC/P7/49 12 June 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Frank [?Digby's] rupture, seeking assistance for the removal of Sergeant from his role as procurator for the college in England, and Manoel de Costa's sickness
1f
LC/P7/50 19 June 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the jurisdictional dispute with friars and Russell's plans to take the case to the Nuncio, and recommending that Allen come to Portalegre for recuperation
1f
LC/P7/51 25 June 1675
Richard Russell to his sister (Sr Maria Russell): sending regards to Sr Mary Smith and Sr Frances Victor who are sick, the death of Captain [?Bur], and Frank Digby's progress in learning
1f
LC/P7/52 [29 June 1675]
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: seal and case of knives being sent from Lisbon, bishop of Lamego's appointment as ambassador in Rome, Frank Digby's progress, and the bailiff to be escorting to Lisbon prisoners bound for exile in
Brazil
Bottom section of the letter torn off
1f
LC/P7/53 3 July 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: letter to the Vicar General to explain his position, hostility of the bishop of Martyria, Captain Manoel Dias de Abreu, the case being pursued against Manoel de Costa Juzarte, and resigning his position as
[?Provedor] of the Misericordia
1f
LC/P7/54 9 July 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Vicar General (Garro) and J. Vivas Barba coming to Lisbon to defend ecclesiastical jurisdiction against secular officers
1f
LC/P7/55 10 July 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Lord Almoner (Howard) being created a cardinal and its effect in England, false report of the death of the Marques de Marialva, his belief that the French will not quarrel with England, and his role as
acting Vicar General
1f
LC/P7/56 17 July 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Corregidor sending W. Ratcliffe to prison, and sympathy in the diocese towards Russell over the ecclesiastical jurisdiction case
1f
LC/P7/57 31 July 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the ecclesiastical jurisdiction case
2f
LC/P7/58 14 August 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Vicar General working hard for the cause and explaining why he told the Vicar General to notify the gaoler, and expecting the arrival of Diniz de Mello who is visiting the frontiers of the province
1f
LC/P7/59 21 August 167[?5]
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: recounting dispute with Provedor and feeling that he (?Russell) has acquitted himself well, and his willingness to forgive the Mestre Scholla if he is repentant
1f
LC/P7/60 28 August 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his desire to shown no fear which has earned him respect from opponents, and Frank Digby's poor health
1f
LC/P7/61 4 September 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Watkinson and the Vicar General being tricked by Manoel de Costas into failing to provide evidence which would have proved Mestre Schollas's falsity, the dismissal of his cook for poor behaviour, and asking
whether Warner will be returning to England
1f
LC/P7/62 11 September 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his hopes that the Relaçao may yet see the papers proving Mestre Schollas's falsity, and the abbot's poor health
1f
LC/P7/63 18 September 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: expressing his satisfaction with the outcome of the Vicar Genera's trip, Vicar General and J. Vivas praising the college hospitality, Russell sending Bartolmeo de Carvalho to replace the sick abbot, sending
an enclosure to Mesa de Paço over a new dispute, and Dean expecting Fisher to succeed Sergeant as college's agent in England
1f
LC/P7/64 25 September 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: arrangements for sending cloth, payment of Miguel Vieira, Corregidor wishing to start a new dispute with the Vicar General, and an opportunity for his chaplain to go to Italy
1f
LC/P7/65 27 September 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: note sent with Joao Carvalho Raxeiro who brought Russell's cloth to the college
1f
LC/P7/66 2 October 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Padre Carvalho leaving Italy, seeking cod and cheese, informing him that he has sent the cloths for gowns, and Digby's work
1f
LC/P7/67 9 October 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the sword, a case of conscience to be solved by the Jesuits, Miguel Vieira writing to the Vicar General requesting
provisões which are urgently needed, Mr Betts's illness, an
increase in Portalegre marriages owing to the King's attempt to raise 251 men from the territory (married men are exempt), and 100 families have left for Spain
1f
LC/P7/68 6 November 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Brother Francis's relapse, and the poor condition of Syon
1f
LC/P7/69 11 November 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the death of a student, cloth ready but unable to send it, ready to send his papers for his
Ad limina, requesting a spherical dial and the sword, and the effect of the death of
the Marques de Gouvea on his opponents
This is described as above in the card catalogue but cannot be located
LC/P7/70 13 November 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: presuming that Carvalho arrived the following day for the defence of conclusions of divinity, business with Colston, and Father Francis's recovery
2f
LC/P7/71 27 November 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: presuming that business with Colston is now complete, Father Francis's recovery, agreeing to send him white cloth for his underclothes, his sister's poor health, and the Vicar General and Sylvestre Correa
at Castello de Vide sorting out disputes
1f
LC/P7/72 30 November 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Carvalho, asking for statement of his account, Ned [Cluer's] progress in Latin, and thanking Mr Edwards for his conclusions
2f
LC/P7/73 25 December 1675
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: officiating at carious ceremonies lasting all night, his worries over the political situation in England and the pressures being brought to bear on the King, intending to visit Arronches for 10 days, and
his determination to be firm with the Mestee Scholla
1f
LC/P7/74 [?1675]
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Corea and Lopez's sickness, the shortage of corn, and Canon Penitentiary sending his regards to the Revd Prior Diogo Roiz d'Almeida
1f
LC/P7/75 15 January 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the ruins at Arronches and the state of his home, and Parry praising Christmas entertainment staged by the students at the college
1f
LC/P7/76 29 January 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: commenting on Parry's praise, and the possibility of Mestre Scholla causing further trouble
1f
LC/P7/77 19 February 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: death of Lord Baltimore (member of the Council of the Queen's revenue) and its implications for his (Russell's) allowance from the Queen, asking Watkinson to contact his brother to recover what he can for
his pension, his wish for a crucifix and candlesticks, Colonel Naper worrying over his sons, the death of Maria Aires and the possibility of her daughter going to a convent
LC/P7/78 26 February 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his decision to accept a Portuguese ordinand (recommended by Antonio Jorge de Mello and a friend of J. Vivas) for Portalegre, complaining about Sergeant and hoping that he will not bring the college into
disrepute, advising Watkinson against sending a letter containing propositions drawn up by Perrot, his belief that the college will be able to justify itself, informing him that he will still be getting a pension, the ill heath of Watkinson's
mother, the replacement of Waring and Russell's opinion that Perrot is unsuitable for the post, and his hope that Fisher will be appointed as the college's procurator in England
1f
LC/P7/79 4 March 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: a marriage dispensation from the Nuncio, his nephew and Mr Victor's protege to be sent to Portalegre, and his ordination of 28 priests
This letter is described as above in the card catalogue but cannot be located
1f
LC/P7/80 11 March 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: commenting on bishop of Martyria, Mestre Scholla, Father Patrick, conversion of Mrs Maynard, sending cloth in return for English cheeses, Mr Carford's pictures, and hearing guns in Lisbon
1f
LC/P7/81 25 March 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: returning Sergeant's censured propositions and his belief that Sergeant will be treat harshly at Rome, his objections to Sergeant's claims to have provided rigorous demonstrations throughout his books,
advising Watkinson not to speak out, Parry informing him that the French have defeated the Dutch and Spanish at sea, the acceptance of Mr Ratcliffe's daughter Maricotta at S. Bernardo and Donna Brittis's disappointment
1f
LC/P7/82 18 May 1676
Richard Russell (at Apalhao) to Matthias Watkinson: John Brett selling a mule of Russell's at Lisbon and also conveying money to Diogo Velho, his (Russell's) satisfaction with Brett, and Parry's stay
1f
LC/P7/83 17 April 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the sale of his mule, Carvalho's expenses, conflict between France and Spain in Flanders, and ignoring a begging letter from Father Francis in Lisbon (Syon)
2f
LC/P7/84 1 July 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his poor health, the British ambassador in Rome, his belief that it is too late to maintain English predominance in naval commerce and the French may even be allowed into India
2f
LC/P7/85 8 July 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his opinion as to whether Peter Brook (naval doctor) would be a good doctor for the college, Lawrence's fretfulness, satisfied with his new cook, planning to stay with J. de Vivas at Castello de Vide, and
his wish to pay for de Vivas's nephew to go to the college
2f
LC/P7/86 22 July 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Carvalho planning to explain his errand to Wilkinson [Russell's attempts, with Wilkinson's help, to gain the support of a Marquis in the contest over jurisdiction), the need for the Regent to support him
(Russell), informing him that Ratcliffe has been wounded in carrying out Ratcliffe's orders, his ejection of two women from Chantre's house, his opposition to P. Brook's proposal, and advising Wilkinson on how to treat Portuguese guests
This letter is slightly damaged
1f
LC/P7/87 29 July 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Chantre's women, Russell's relations with Jesuits, criticism of the Rector, asking after Frank, his hopes that the French do not set us at a difference with the Court of Rome, and wanting Spondanus's
history to help the clergy understand canons on ecclesiastical abuses
1f
LC/P7/88 5 August 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: entertaining the Earl of Clare who owes favours to his uncle (Lord Hollis), the possibility of the Earl of Clare being the guest of the Consul in London, rumour of a plague, fearing that French will
entangle Portugal, and Lawrence's recovery
2f
LC/P7/89 12 August 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Holbeck wishing to obtain a negress slave for Prioress of S. Bernardo, an urgent request for Spondanus, Chantre publicly reviled, measures taken against the plague, Underhill's half-brother to be sent to
the college, the execution of two highwaymen, and Ratcliffe and the case before the Paco
2f
LC/P7/90 19 August 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: informing him that he cannot afford pictures offered by Parry, requesting a wig for Mr Ratcliffe and a breviary and cloak for Francis Ratcliffe, prioress keen to have a negress, hoping that the prince will
send an alçada which is needed for future good government, his anger at the archbishop of Braga, and sending a letter for Marques de Arronches (now president of Paço)
2f
LC/P7/91 26 August 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his worries over Watkinson's headache, his astonishment that Senhor J. de Boos has become a friar, the purchase of a negress, requesting a periwig for Ratcliffe, J. de Costa Froes (brother of the offender,
Francisco) and his attempts to thwart an alçada in Lisbon, hie letter from Cardinal Howard, Peter Talbot coming to Portugal and the possibility of trouble, and his worries over Frank
2f
LC/P7/92 3 September 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his view that the Paço should have supported the church's interests with much sterner measures, Watkinson entertaining Clare, ordering pottery for M. Ratcliffe, requesting a negress to be sent for the
prioress, the killing of an officer near Portalegre, and his preparations for Clement VIII's Requiem Mass and exequies
1f
LC/P7/93 9 September 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Frank's cure, report of a dispute involving J. de Costa and J. de Almeida, Cardinal Howard pleased with Watkinson, his belief that Talbot's visit will cause trouble for the college because of its connection
with Blacklow and Sergeant, and the negress for the prioress
1f
LC/P7/94 16 September 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his opinion of the orders from ministers, wanting to know if a resolution has been taken on his last letter to the prince, Ratcliffe recovering, Maricotta's popularity at S. Bernardo's and new of her sister
(Anne Ratcliffe) joining her, and items requested for the convent
2f
LC/P7/95 23 September 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his failure to obtain a suitable negress for the prioress, asking him to make arrangements for Anne. Ratcliffe to enter the convent and requesting a Little Hours of Our Lady and a breviary for her, his
favourable report of Edward Harrison who has been given minor orders, prospects for Frank's health, and Parry leaving Lisbon
1f
LC/P7/96 4 October 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: a dispute involving Ratcliffe, happy that a negress has been found, eagerly awaiting Anne's arrival, Clare praising the hospitality and kindness of the college and Syon, his shortage of money because of
payments for nuns, informing him that Victor is to send a boy and Underhill's half-brother is expected for Portalegere, his opinion on the killing of twelve Protestants in a factory at Lisbon, and the expected battle in [?Prussia]
1f
LC/P7/97 14 October 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: informing him that the convent is pleased with the new negress, awaiting arrival of the crucifix, Ratcliffe's debt, Anne to enter the convent, his hopes that F. de Costa will be sent away from Portalegre,
the death of Henry Ellis, asking whether F. de Mello has lost his place in court, and his shortage of money
1f
LC/P7/98 16 October 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: sending hogs to Watkinson and his (Ratcliffe's) sister and Holbeck's wife
1f
LC/P7/99 21 October 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: reluctantly agreeing to pay Ratcliffe's debt to Pereira, appointment of a local Jesuit rector, articles needed for Ratcliffe sisters, his shortage of money, wanting another negress as the first (Dorothea)
is unsatisfactory
1f
LC/P7/100 2 November 1676
Richard Russell (at Castello de Vide) to Matthias Watkinson: informing him that he is on a visitation (punishing people for usury, fighting, drinking and wenching) and being entertained by J. Vivas
1f
LC/P7/101 4 November 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: thanking him for sending items for the nuns, requiring another negress from Cabo Verde, Frank's illness, and James White's poem
1f
LC/P7/102 11 November [1676]
Richard Russell (at Marvao) to Matthias Watkinson: informing him that people at Castello de Vide were glad to see Russell leaving, Holbeck sending a negra to view, Chantra and his women friends in prison prior to their removal to Lisbon, J.
Vivas's generosity, and his sister fearing illness at the convent
1f
LC/P7/103 14 November 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: nuns being provided for, Chantre's women being sent to Lisbon, Viola bringing back negress which he (Russell) will pay for, and Holbeck informing Russell of an attractive girl costing 80 milres
1f
LC/P7/104 25 November 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Fisher expecting Parliament to make difficulties for Catholics in England
This letter is very faded
2f
LC/P7/105 2 December 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his anger at Viola over the damage to his reputation by the non-arrival of the promised negress, news of Lord Dongan, informing him that Fisher has sent news of religious controversy in England and of a
proclamation against Catholics, the bishop of London (Compton's) anti-papal attitude, the likelihood of the persecution of the Catholics, and planning to take the bishop of Elvas to court
1f
LC/P7/106 9 November 1676
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Watkinson's decision not to return to England, complaining about Chantre and the Portalegre Chapter, Francis Ratcliffe wavering in his novitiate, and criticising Hesketh for calling Lancastrians
“his countrymen” which is likely to divide the community
1f
LC/P7/107 [1676]
Richard Russell to Frank Digby: sending pocket money, and encouraging him to keep at his studies
This letter is damaged
2f
LC/P7/108 6 January 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: acknowledging his accounts, and requesting a statement of the money he left to pay for the repair of his house at the college
1f
LC/P7/109 3 February 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his account with the college, sending money for Syon, and planning to send the cloth back
1f
LC/P7/110 31 March 1677
Language: Portuguese
Richard Russell to Lisbon College: receipt for [?]
2f
LC/P7/111 17 June 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Ratcliffe coming to Lisbon for a lawsuit and asking Wilkinson to give him board and lodging, and suggesting that James White come to Portalegre for a rest
1f
LC/P7/112 28 July 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: James White's arrival for convalescence, Hesketh and his students staying with him (Russell), Ratcliffe to stay in the college, and Holbeck's poor health
2f
LC/P7/113 11 August 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: James White's continuing illness, Hesketh returning to Lisbon soon, Holbeck improving, and informing him that Edwards and Martin have left Lisbon
1f
LC/P7/114 1 September 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Hesketh's safe journey back home, James White's poor health, his (Russell's) Bridgettine sister's poor health, reporting on Underhill's progress and asking whether he is fit for the English mission
1f
LC/P7/115 8 September 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: White's continuing illness, and Underhill's imaginary illnesses
1f
LC/P7/116 15 September 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: James White's deteriorating health, news of Donna Francisca de Tavora, Ned (Underhill's) illness, and requesting prayers for White
1f
LC/P7/117 29 September 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: asking him to put up a French surgeon in the college who will report on the health of Ratcliffe's sister while getting approval from Lisbon to practise in Portalegre, White's deteriorating health, and
warning him about Marshall
1f
LC/P7/118 13-21 October 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: White's deteriorating health, blaming Penrice for his illness, hoping that the prince will excuse him from going to Coimbra, and informing him that Anne Ratcliffe is to be professed
1f
LC/P7/119 27 October 1677
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: White's death and disposal of his belongings, and Underhill's reluctance to go to England
1f
LC/P7/120 8 March 1678
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Underhill's account of his hypochondria
2f
LC/P7/121 20 August 1678
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Ratcliffe's riding accident, the Inquisitor's favourable report on the college, and his plan to write to England to request more superiors
1f
LC/P7/122 4 August 1678
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the syllabus in the college, Betts useful in the college, and new superiors at Syon
1f
LC/P7/123 10 August 1678
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: dispute with the friars in which Russell has imprisoned the prior, his disappointment that Ned Cluer was not accepted by the college
1f
LC/P7/124 29 August 1678
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the origins of Russell's dispute with the friars and a justification of his actions, sending 50 milres to the college, and wanting a statement of account for his house
1f
LC/P7/125 21 September 1678
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his dispute with the friars, and his house account at the college and his belief that Watkinson is not keeping proper accounts
1f
LC/P7/126 14 October 167[?8]
Richard Russell (at Apalhao) to Matthias Watkinson: sending money to Diogo Velho to be forwarded to Rome
1f
LC/P7/127 24 June 1679
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Promotor da Justicia Ecclesiastica seeking a benefice, the arrival of Young and Russell's nephew Francis and their poor health, Canon Francisco Marques of Portalegre's suicide, and Antonio Frões dying
1f
LC/P7/128 13 March 1680
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: complaining about his older sister [?Catharine] who has come to Lisbon and who wishes to be maintained in luxury
2f
LC/P7/129 13 July 1680
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: Young visiting his relative Mr Woodruff, and Robert Seymour planning to stay with Russell
2f
LC/P7/130 24 July 1680
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: E. Cluer's dismissal as an unsatisfactory prospect, and Russell is preparing to ordain him as soon as he is ready
1f
LC/P7/131 9 September 1680
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: recommending Robert Seymour for admission to the college at his expense
2f
LC/P7/132 15 January 1681
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: asking for Ned Barker to be admitted to the college, and the death of his nephew Frank
2f
LC/P7/133 17 December 1681
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his nephew arriving at college with Thomas Seymour, and answering accusations (made to Perrot by Watkinson and Mr Jennyns) about plotting with Hesketh to replace the president
2f
LC/P7/134 17 January 1682
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: the arrival of Frank (his nephew) and Thomas Seymour, and his hopes that Watkinson's quarrel with Hesketh is over
2f
LC/P7/135 March 1682
Richard Russell to Moseley: thanking Moseley for his conclusions and his praise for the college in its ability to continually produce its own teachers, and W. Pierce's disappointment that he was prevented by illness from defending theses
2f
LC/P7/136 8 April 1682
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: wanting his nephew to be admitted to the college to re-learn English, and his plan to keep Nicholas and Charles longer
2f
LC/P7/137 4 November 1682
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: his belief that the course can be completed in two years for bright students
2f
LC/P7/138 2 June 1683
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: a troublesome student in the college and informing Watkinson that he (Russell) has no obligation to keep him at the college's expense beyond the end of his course
1f
LC/P7/139 13 October 1683
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: praising his theology thesis
2f
LC/P7/140 21 January 1685
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: a will in which Watkinson is the executor
2f
LC/P7/141 22 August 1685
Language: Portuguese
Richard Russell to Matthias Watkinson: an account of the funds obtained by Russell for the college from 1662, with details of the students maintained on these funds
3f
LC/P7/142 27 November 1685
Catalogue by Richard Russell of his letters
4f
LC/P7/143 [?November 1685]
President and superiors of Lisbon College for Bishop Richard Russell: details of students maintained on funds provided by Russell from 1662 onwards and conceding that Russell had the right to nominate
2f
LC/P7/144 27 April 1686
Richard Russell to Hesketh: his solemn entry to his new diocese of Vizeu, the death of Fisher, informing him that Watkinson can dispose as he pleases of Russell's house at the college, and Hesketh going to England
2f
