On his deathbed, Nicholas had summoned Sir John Davis to discuss his plans with Dorothy and their two business agents. Nicholas was persuaded by Davis to sign a legal instrument naming him as jointly responsible with Dorothy for effecting Nicholas' plans for a college. Davis had been convicted as a traitor due to his part in the Essex conspiracy, and was a recusant. His inclusion in the design put the plan in jeopardy. In 1610 it was shown in Parliament that Davis had refused the Church of England sacraments. He may have wanted Wadham's foundation to be governed by his own former college, Gloucester Hall, Oxford. Dorothy wrote to the Lord High Treasurer, Robert Cecil, a month after Nicholas's death, denying Davis's accusation that she did not intend to proceed with Nicholas's plans. An offer was made to Gloucester Hall, which was refused by the Principal unless he was made head of the new foundation. Nicholas had intended an offer be made to Jesus College, Oxford, but no evidence of such exists.