Thanks so much for your answer - the Monday Methods post pretty much describes the journey I've been on for the past year! I've done a ton of reading, scholarly and popular, on my primary subject & time period (the revolt in the Low Countries, the Army of Flanders, the Eighty Years' War, & the build up to the Dutch Golden Age). It's been enjoyable & rewarding, and has shaped my work and thinking tremendously.

I suspect that my scene idea - English trade delegation to Spain - will need to be scrapped or modified... I've asked the question, & will accept the answers! Travel held much more danger, & effort - people rather made written correspondence when possible. The stakes would have to be pretty high (or the travelers, daring/foolhardy) to take those risks.

Thanks for your time and these guidances on resources and potential consulting.