# Elizabeth I.

passport for William Cooke, Clerk of the Liveries, "to passe out of this o^{r Realme into the partes of beyonde the Seas and there to remayne for his better attayning of languages, learninge knowledge and experience, during the space of two yeares", countersigned at base, papered seal, docketed on verso, one vellum membrane (310 x 355mm), Oatlands, 18 July 1593, signature slightly faded, some dust-staining, adhesive residue at margins}

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

William Cooke (1572-1619) was related to both Lord Burghley and Francis Bacon as the grandson of Sir Anthony Cooke of Gidea Hall. When this passport was issued he had just entered into his majority and his desire to spend two years abroad appears to have been enlivened by his mother's attempts to get him to make an advantageous marriage. Some four years later he married into the prominent Lucy family of Charlecote and through that alliance gained the estate of Highnam in Gloucestershire, where the family remained for many generations. He later served as an MP and was knighted in 1603 (see The History of Parliament: The House of Commons 1558-1603 (1981), I, pp.647-48).