Venice: May 1526 | British History Online

Pages 545-560

Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 3, 1520-1526. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1869.

Citation:

May 1526



May 1. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 206.	1263. Note by Sanuto.
	In the letters from France, date 10th April, there was a passage in cipher that a gentleman from the King of England had arrived to tell the most Christian King not to keep the promises made to the Emperor. (fn. 1)
	[Italian.]
May 1. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 225.	1264. Marco Foscari to the Doge and Signory.
	Heard from the Pope that the English King was well inclined to act and join the league. Sir Gregory Casal gave him a similar account, and said he would write to his brother, the prothonotary at Venice, to impart the news to the Signory. Returned thanks, and besought his good offices.
	Rome, 1st May. Registered by Sanuto, 5th May.
	[Italian.]
May 1. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 261.	1265. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signoey.
	Went with Chiapino to the King, who expressed indignation against one Abbatis, because letters from the latter to the Duke of Bourbon had been intercepted, telling Bourbon he should be Duke of Milan, and that the Signory consents to this. His Majesty said, “Write to the Signory to have him seized, for if I could get the rogue, he should go the galleys as he deserves.”
	The King then said that the Viceroy [of Naples, Charles de Lannoi] would arrive at Cognac on Saturday; he had reached Bayonne, and took it amiss that no one was sent to meet him. The King has therefore despatched one of his gentlemen to keep the Vice-roy three days at Bordeaux, and on his reaching Cognac will lodge him in the castle, and amuse him until the arrival of the mandates. (fn. 2) Should he talk of breach of promise, the King will challenge him, and says he shall be challenged to single combat by one of his own grade; and if he says in the Emperor's name that the King has broken faith with him, he will tell Lannoi that he challenges the Emperor to fight with him. The King then said there were letters from England dated the 24th April. The King of England is willing to join the league, but insists on certain articles, viz., that none of the allies may make terms with the Emperor unless with the consent of their colleagues; and he would fain have an understanding about Boulogne, &c. The King [of France] replied that everything could be arranged by sending a mandate to Cognac, and his Majesty spoke about this to the English ambassadors [Dr. Tayler and Sir Thomas Cheyne]. The King added, that it would be well for the ambassadors to see Chiapino and Rosso with him, and told them that the English King and Cardinal are ambitious of being parties to the league ; so they are satisfied (fn. 3) Spinalosa is come back from Spain, and the Admiral departs for Burgundy with 500 spears.
	Cognac, 1st May. Registered by Sanuto, 18th May.
	[Italian.]
May 2. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 225.	1266. Marco Foscari to the Doge and Signory.
	The Pope told him he had answered the English ambassador, desiring him to write to his King to join the league, in which case he should receive the 8,000 (sic) ducats due to him from the Emperor.
	Rome, 2nd May. Registered by Sanuto, 5th May.
	[Italian.]
May 4. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. pp. 261, 262.	1267. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	The most Christian King told him he had received letters from England dated 14th April. The King [of England] is willing to join the league with the Signory, and to contribute 25,000 crowns monthly.
	Robertet inquired when the mandates would arrive. Having received the Signory's letters, announcing that they had sent the mandate, and exhorted the Pope to do the like, he (Rosso) replied accordingly. Robertet rejoined,” We know the Signory will comply, but with regard to the Pope, we have not the requisite conviction.” The King delays the Viceroy [Charles de Lannoi] until the mandates arrive; and he also announced his intention of sending Mons. de la Morette to England.
	Cognac, 4th May. Registered by Sanuto, 18th May.
	[Italian.]
May 7. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli., pp. 287, 288.	1268. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	The Viceroy [Charles de Lannoi] arrived within three leagues of the court yesterday, and will make his entry tomorrow. His most Christian Majesty had received letters from the King of England, who is expecting the mandates for the stipulation of the league.
	His Majesty told him (Rosso) that Mons. De la Valle had returned from Spain, where it was said that if the King of France were still there, they would not release him. His Majesty observed, “I will take good care not to return.” He is going to Blois, and then to Paris.
	On receiving the Signory's letters of the 25th and 26th, went on the morning of the 17th to Robertet, and told him he had received the mandates. Robertet took him to the King's chamber; it was the 15th hour, and his Majesty had not risen, as he goes to bed after midnight. He was very glad to hear of the arrival of the mandates, and said a conference should be held on Thursday, and that he would swear to the articles of the league on the day of the arrival of the Viceroy, to whom he would however give good greeting, and delay him. He then said he had letters from England, that the King would give for his share to the league 25,000 crowns monthly, and ransom his most Christian Majesty's sons, by giving the Emperor two millions of gold in two instalments.
	[Cognac], 7th May. Registered by Sanuto, 21 st May.
	[Italian.]
May 7. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 256.	1269. Lorenzo Orio to the Doge and Signory.
	Has been with the Cardinal, who is awaiting the mandates from the Pope and the Signory, in order to negotiate and conclude the league. The French ambassador, Dom. Giovanni Gioachino, had told the Cardinal that the Signory, having been mentioned by both Kings in the peace, might therefore be considered as included in the league. The Cardinal replied that this was untrue, as the Signory had not given an answer within the appointed time with regard to accepting and ratifying, &c.
	An English gentleman has arrived in London from France. The [French] King had not ratified the agreement with the Emperor, and the Viceroy [Lannoi] and the Captain Alarcon had come to Cognac to urge its ratification.
	By this gentleman received letters from the secretary Rosso in France, dated Cognac, 30th April, giving an account of events there.
	The French ambassador, the President of Rouen [Jean Brinon], departed yesterday on his way back to France, the King having given him a chain worth. . . . . . He was accompanied to the sea side by Dom. Giovanni Gioachino [di Passano, Lord of Vaux].
	London, 7th May. Registered by Sanuto, 2nd June.
	[Italian.]
May 10. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. pp. 288, 289.	1270. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	The Viceroy [Charles de Lannoi] has made his entry [into Cognac], having been met by Mons. de Vendome, Môns. de S. Pol, Mons. de la Guiche, Mons. de Lautrec, and others. He was accompanied by the Captain Archom [Alarcon], the Duke of Traieto, and the Duke of —, with 200 horse. He lodged in the castle; and in a hall, handsomely decorated with tapestry, the most Christian King embraced him on his arrival; after which they went into the garden, and conversed there awhile. The Viceroy brought four letters, from the Emperor, from the Queen [Eleanor], and from the King's two sons. The King sent part of a wild boar to him (Rosso); and a saker belonging to Mons. de Lautrec, having quarried a large bird, his Majesty sent it to the Viceroy, with a message, thus, “This bird is not an eagle.” The Viceroy's companions are very suspicious. Chiapin and Rosso then went to the King, requesting him to conclude the league, because the castles of Milan and Cremona could hold out no longer, and beseeching him not to allow the Viceroy to proceed to Italy. His Majesty replied that he would neither allow him to do so nor to return to Spain. The King then entered the council chamber, which was attended by the two envoys Chiapin and Rosso, who exhibited their mandates, urging the conclusion of the league. They were then dismissed, and on being re-admitted the Lord Chancellor [Du Prat] said his most Christian Majesty would stipulate the league, and that they were to leave copies of their mandates.
	The King says the Viceroy told him to observe the articles of agreement, and that his Majesty replied he would take the advice of his Council, because that which it is in his power to do of himself he will do, but that which requires counsel shall be answered by him with his Council, as the Emperor did when his Majesty was in Spain; for to whatever was proposed, he said he would consult with his Council. The President of Paris also said to the Viceroy, “Did I not tell you when in Spain that the King cannot promise to give Burgundy?”
	This morning, the church being most sumptuously hung with cloth of gold and silk, a mass was sung by the Cardinal of Lorraine, there being present the Viceroy, the Imperial ambassador, the two English ambassadors [Tayler and Cheyne], the Papal envoy, and himself (Rosso). The King swore to the peace made with the King of England. After this ceremony his Majesty caused the Lord Steward to give a dinner to all the ambassadors, but the Imperial ambassador did not attend. In the afternoon Dom. Chiapin and he (Rosso) went to the King, and urged him to conclude the league. His Majesty said he would do so by all means, and send for them into the council chamber; adding, “The King of England does not wish the league to be made without him, and this suffices to prevent him from making an agreement with others without the consent of the allies. He is also desirous that the league be stipulated in England, which is a bad plan; it is better to make it here, and to leave him place for his adhesion.”
	The King also said the Viceroy told him he had a negotiation on foot for another agreement, and should wish to depart for Italy on Tuesday, but that he (the King) would delay him; and that he was sending Mons. de la Morette to England.
	Chiapin has received letters from the prothonotary Gambara, dated London, 29th April, and showed him (Rosso) the instructions received from the Pope. Touching the kingdom of Naples, the Pope demands the right to assign an annual revenue of 40,000 ducats thereon to such person as he shall think fit.
	[Cognac], 10th May. (fn. 4) Registered by Sanuto, 24th May.
	[Italian.]
May 11. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 225.	1271. Letter from Henry VIII.
	The English ambassador, Prothonotary Casal, came into the College and exhibited letters from his brother, Sir Gregory, at Rome, announcing the receipt of letters from the King, dated 17th April, expressing goodwill towards Italy.
	[Italian.]
May 11. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. pp. 289,290.	1272. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	He and Chiapin went to Madame [Louise of Savoy] and to the Lord Steward, to hasten the stipulation of the league. Went alone to Robertet, and Chiapin went to the Lord Chancellor and to Mons. de Lautrec. Robertet said it would be well to hasten, lest the castles of Milan and Cremona be lost; moreover, that delay might cause the Pope to change sides. Robertet swore that the King purposes to stipulate the league. The Chancellor and Lautrec said the like to Chiapin.
	The King has gone out hunting with the Viceroy. Before he went Chiapin and he (Rosso) presented themselves to his Majesty, who said to them, “Although I am going to hunt abroad, do you attend the Council.” Accordingly in the afternoon they attended the Council, in which the articles were read. There was a difficulty about finding those negotiated in the time of Madame the Regent, which differ from the present, as they purpose inserting the following clauses:—That no agreement may be made with the Emperor unless he make restitution to the allies, &c. Also, that a term be assigned to the Emperor for releasing the French princes, in consideration of such a sum of money as shall seem fit to the allies. Also, that the Emperor do remove his troops from the Milanese, and do not go into Italy save with the consent of the allies, and in such form as shall seem lit to them. Also, that he allow the Pope, the Signory, the Duke of Milan, and the Florentines to retain what they possess. Besides these, there were certain other clauses, to which he (Rosso) and Chiapin consented. The, members of the. Council desired them (Chiapin and Rosso) to leave the articles, because neither the President of Paris nor the Bishop of Tarbes, who sat therein, had seen them, they having been in France. (fn. 5) And they said they would give their reply tomorrow. The Council also discussed the stipulation of the league in England, and it was settled that it would be better to conclude it at Cognac, giving power to the King of England to join it. He (Rosso) and Chiapin then spoke to Madame. She swore that the King purposes to stipulate the league, and said the present delay is not injurious; nor will his Majesty do anything with the Viceroy. She added, “The King of England writes that he disapproves of the Duke of Milan's remaining in his duchy.” (fn. 6)
	His most Christian Majesty desired him and Chiapin to speak to the English ambassadors, as they did, and were told by them that they (Tayler and Cheyne) had no commission from their King to stipulate the league. The Viceroy was visited first by Chiapin, and then by him (Rosso). He is dissatisfied with the Signory. Understands that in the Viceroy's house they say, “This King wishes to bind us by doing us honour! we require something more than honours.”
	On the day when the peace with England was sworn to, the King wore a doublet (zipon), which he showed to him (Rosso), of cloth of gold, on which were 28 diamonds, a very handsome ruby, and pearls, to the value of 140,000 ducats. Also on his cap he had the carbuncle which the Signory gave him on the death of King Lewis, as his Majesty told him.
	[Cognac], 11th May. Registered by Sanuto, 24th May.
	[Italian.]
May 12. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. pp. 300,301.	1273. The Countess Somaglia to —.
	The Viceroy arrived on the 8th with Alarcon and the Duke of Traietto; they were accompanied for a league by all the Princes of France and by the greater part of the emigrants (foraussiti). The King's archers, in number about 300, all clad in new uniforms, and the Swiss guard, 80 in number, awaited him drawn up in line within the palace. The King was in a large hall, hung with silk arras at the entry, and thence went to meet him, giving him greeting and caresses. Both then withdrew to a window in the hall, where they talked a long while in the presence of the other lords. The Viceroy used strong language (parole grande), and at the same time gave the King two letters, one said to be from the Emperor, the other from the Lady Eleanor. After perusal of the letters and further discourse, the Viceroy was taken to Madame [Louise of Savoy] in her chamber. She received him most graciously, wishing to kiss him, according to the custom of France. He would only kiss her hand; but he afterwards kissed the Duchess [of Alençn] and all the other ladies. At length he was taken to his lodging, which had been prepared in the King's own palace. Three chambers leading one into the other were assigned to the Viceroy; the first entirely of gold brocade; the second of green velvet embroidered with stories and fables, a most beautiful thing, and the bed and bed furniture wrought in the same fashion; and the third chamber was all of crimson velvet with gold ciphers, with another suit of bed furniture to match. Alarcon had a chamber and a wardrobe (guardaroba) hung with arras, and the Duke of Traietto the like. They all ate apart, and were served alike.
	On the 9th instant a banquet was given in the palace to the ambassador of the King of England by the Lord Steward of France, as commissioned by his most Christian Majesty.
	On the morning of the 10th great preparation was made in the palace-church for the King to confirm the oath pledged to England, which had hitherto been taken by Madame alone. Mons. de St. Pol, Mons. de [la Guiche], and Mons. de Chavigni, the captain of the archers, had to go to the English ambassador's house and accompany him to the palace for the ratification of the treaty, a great demonstration on the part of the King, which did not much please the Viceroy, who together with the English ambassador was the first to enter the church. The King arrived shortly afterwards, accompanied by all the Princes of France and by the knights of the Order [of St. Michael], and also by the Viceroy and all the ambassadors. The Viceroy was first next the King; then came the Pope's ambassador, followed by the Emperor's and by the Venetian, and by all the other lords as they pleased, for no order whatever was kept. Thus accompanied, the King went to the church, where the mass was sung by the Cardinal de Bourbon, served by two archbishops, with trumpets and fifes, in great state. Then followed the oath and ratification of the peace, which did not greatly please the Viceroy, as hitherto he has been unable to ascertain the King's intention touching peace or war with the Emperor.
	On the 12th the King desired the Lord Steward to invite the ambassadors from the Pope and from the Signory of Venice to dine in the palace, as they did; nor did this please the Viceroy. There are various opinions about the agreement between the Emperor and the King, and between the King and the Italian powers. The secret is in the breast of the King, and of a few others, but ere long will be manifest.
	The Count Palatine arrived at the Court yesterday, being on his way to the Emperor. Today the King hunts for the amusement of the Viceroy, and tomorrow he gives him a banquet and entertainment with masks. Madame Rénée is expected shortly at the Court and it is said she will marry the King of Navarre.
	Cognac, 12th May. Registered by Sanuto, 27th May.
	[Italian.]
May 13. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 10.	1274. The Doge and College to Lorenzo Orio, Ambassador in England.
	Are expecting to receive from him additional details of what has been announced by Giovanni Gioachino concerning the new league, and also of what took place subsequently.
	Have noted the good offices rendered to him by the prothonotary Gambara, the Papal Nuncio in England. Have heard of the Pope's suggestion that they should write to him (Orio) to have a good understanding with this Nuncio. Warn him to proceed cautiously and reservedly with the prothonotary, as they are acquainted with his past actions, but to show no distrust.
	To mark what they write concerning the proposal made to them by the English ambassador [Giovanni Casal]. Should anything be said on the subject in London, to reply as they did at Venice.
	[Italian.]
May 13. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 331.	1275. Gasparo Spinelli to the Doge and Signory.
	On the 7th and 11th May the ambassador wrote by way of France, describing his conferences with Cardinal Wolsey, after which the ambassador, Dom. Lorenzo Orio, LL.D. and knight, departed this life late on the 12th of May, his death being caused by two glandular tumours (do giandusse) and a carbuncle.
	“I pray God to give rest to his soul; he was much beloved in England, and the loss of so able a man is greatly regretted. I remained with him to the last, but at length quitted the house, and am lodging at a hostel with part of the ambassador's establishment. As Cardinal Wolsey has a great dread of the plague, I shall have to remain for some days away from his right rev. Lordship, and thus be unable to transact any business.” Bequests pecuniary supply, and wishes to know what to do with the ambassador's attendants, who are now all at his charge. The mandate for the conclusion of the league is expected. Should the Signory please to address it to him, he will use his good offices, as becomes a faithful servant.
	The French ambassador, the Chancellor of Alençon [Jean Brinon], quitted London today, on his way back to France. Visited him; he will use his good offices with the most Christian King in favour of the Signory. Dom. Giovanni Gioachino [di Passano] has not returned from the sea side, whither he went to accompany the other ambassador on his way home. (fn. 7)
	Sends this letter express, for its safe delivery.
	London, 13th May. Registered by Sanuto, 2 nd June.
	[Italian.]
May 15. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. pp. 294, 295.	1276. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	The King says he has received letters from England dated the 8th, whereby the King of England urges his most Christian Majesty to make the league with Italy, and to give power to him to join within the period of three months, during which interval he will have his merchants and their property removed from Spain, and will try to obtain the money due to him from the Emperor before he declares war against his Imperial Majesty. The most Christian King said he wishes the King of England first of all to join the league, and to promise a monthly subsidy of 15,000 crowns. Things are now brought to such a pass 'as to cause great doubts about the result. The Viceroy has sent twice to Spain, and the mission of Mons de la Morette to England on behalf of the King of France has been suspended.
	The English ambassadors [Tayler and Cheyne] have dined with Chiapin. They communicated everything, and said they strongly suspected that the King of France will make terms with the Emperor; and they purpose speaking to him about this.
	Cognac, 15th May. Registered by Sanuto, 26th May.
	[Italian.]
May 16. Parti Secrete, Consiglio X., Filza Ima.	1277. The Council of Ten and Junta to Marco Fos cari, Ambassador in Rome.
	With regard to the King of England, to tell the Pope in confidence that as the King of England and Cardinal Wolsey have so often promised not only to join the league, but to lend it their favour and assistance, the Council of Ten are therefore of opinion, although the prothonotary Gambara writes that the King will not at once declare himself against the Emperor, that he will in fact do so as protector of the league, and find an opportunity for acting as desired. This the King constantly and solemnly affirmed to the Signory's ambassador, whose letters are more recent than those of the prothonotary Gambara. Moreover, he (Foscari) wrote on the 1st instant that the English ambassadors at the Papal Court had received letters from their King, dated the 17th ult., announcing not only that he would join the league, but also contribute money.
	All means should therefore be employed to include the King and Cardinal in the league under any name soever, but if possible as confederate.
	[Italian.]
May 16. Parti Secrete, Consiglio X., Filza lma.	1278. The Same to the Same.
	Send copies of French despatches (dated from 21st April to 1st May), that the Pope may see how the most Christian King perseveres in his firm intention to effect the union, and awaits anxiously the mandates from his Holiness and the Signory. On their arrival he would conclude the matter. Rosso writes that his most Christian Majesty told him he had received letters dated 24th April from Dom. Giovanni Gioachino, informing him that the King and Cardinal wished the league with Italy to be made, the King consenting to join it.
	[Italian.]
May 16. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 10.	1279. The Doge and College to Lorenzo Orio, Ambassador in England.
	The ambassador of the King of England presented himself lately saying he had received letters from his brother, Sir Gregory Casal, his Majesty's ambassador at Rome, announcing the commission given him by the King and Cardinal to transmit their letters addressed to Sir Gregory to Venice for communication to the Signory. They set forth the constant good disposition of the King and Cardinal, and their wish for the speedy conclusion of the new league. The ambassador observed that before concluding the league a clause should be inserted, that none of the contracting princes should treat with any prince not included in this treaty without the consent of the others. This he desired because, his King being a creditor of the Emperor for a considerable sum of money, the other contracting princes should co-operate with him for its recovery.
	They answered the ambassador that they heard gratefully how well inclined his King and Cardinal were to the conclusion of the league, and thus knew that all Italy and the Signory were under great obligation to them. Assured him that amongst the clauses resettled by the Pope, and sent to France and England, was one whereby none of the confederate princes might treat with any one not comprised in the league without the consent of the other contracting powers; and therefore his Majesty, as principal contracting party, and also as conservator and protector of the league, might be assured that the princes named in the league would be no less anxious for the advantage of himself and the Cardinal than for their own. Thereupon the ambassador took leave.
	[Italian.]
May 17. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 10.	1280. The Doge and College to Lorenzo Orio, Ambassador in England.
	On the 14th received letters from their Secretary Rosso, dated Cognac, the 1st instant, giving a full account of the excellent disposition of the most Christian King, and his great wish for the arrival of the mandates from the Pope and the Signory, so as to be able to conclude the new league. Great hope is entertained there that the King of England will join it as chief contracting party, and as its conservator and protector.
	To go to the King and Cardinal, beseeching them earnestly and respectfully no longer to delay entering the league, and laying before them, besides other reasons, that the castles of Milan and Cremona are straitened for victuals, so that they cannot long hold out, and should they fall into the hands of the Imperialists it may be easily understood how much this result would thwart the wishes of the King and Cardinal, and the general welfare of Italy. To insist on the danger of delay, and give notice of the whole to the aforesaid secretary in France.
	Send copies of two paragraphs in Rosso's letters; also a letter of their own, touching the request made to them by the prothonotary Casal.
	Have desired him (Orio) to proceed cautiously with the prothonotary Gambara, without, however, evincing distrust. Have been subsequently confirmed in this opinion by letters from their ambassador at Rome, dated the 11th inst., purporting that, by letters of the 21st April from the prothonotary, the Pope was informed that the King of England would not join the league as principal contracting party, because he had no just cause to break with the Emperor, though the King was very willing to be the protector and conservator of the league. Consider this very strange, and at variance with what they hear through other channels, both by letters of the 17th April, written by the King to his ambassador at Rome, which he [Sir Gregory Casal] forwarded to his brother, the prothonotary, who communicated them to the State, and also by his (Orio's) letters of the 22nd April, all giving assurance of the excellent disposition of the King and Cardinal, and of their desire for the conclusion of the league. This is also confirmed by the letters of Secretary Rosso, who gives fair hopes to the like effect, the most Christian King declaring that he had similar letters from his ambassador in England, dated the 24th April. Are therefore surprised by the contradictory statement attributed to the prothonotary Gambara.
	[Italian.]
May 17. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 287.	1281. Marco Foscaei to the Doge and Signory.
	The Pope told him he had indifferent news (non bone nove). The prothonotary Gambara writes that the King wishes to stipulate the league in London. The Pope then said that Gambara had been the cause of this result, and that he (the Pope) had sent letters to France for the conclusion of the league, as they should not wait for the King of England by reason of the danger of losing the castles of Milan and Cremona. Sir Gregory Casal thanks the Signory, having had letters from his brother, the ambassador in Venice [John Casal, prothonotary], about the entry of their brother into the Signory's military service, which Sir Gregory greatly desires.
	Rome, 17th May. Registered by Sanuto, 24th May.
	[Italian.]
May 18. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 332.	1282. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	The King says that the King of England must be allowed three months to join the league, and that the English ambassadors are very suspicious.
	Cognac, 18th May. Registered by Sanuto, 2nd June.
	[Italian.]
May 18. Deliberazioni Senato Secreta, v. li. p. 24.	1283. The Doge and Senate to Marco Foscari, Ambassador in Rome.
	The Pope will have heard of the auspicious resolve (resolutione votiva) of the King of England to join the league and contribute money, as told to Dom. Capino by the most Christian King; so that, by God's grace, everything proceeds favorably.
	Ayes, 197. Noes, 1. Neutrals, 1.
	[Italian.]
May 19. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. pp. 332, 333.	1284. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	The English ambassadors went to the King yesterday about this league. The King of England writes he had heard of the arrival of the Viceroy at Cognac, and that his most Christian Majesty must not keep his promises, but conclude the league with Italy, and leave him three months' time to become a party. Chiapin and Rosso told the most Christian King to modify the clause about the King of England, offering him—should he choose to join the league—territory in Italy yielding 300,000 (sic, 30,000?) ducats annual revenue, and 10,000 ducats rental for Cardinal Wolsey. This pleased the King, and they remained satisfied.
	Cognac, 19th May. Registered by Sanuto, 2 nd June.
	[Italian.]
May 21. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. pp. 332, 333.	1285. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signroy.
	He (Rosso) and Chiapin went to the King, who was at dinner. His Majesty took them into a wardrobe chamber (una guarda roba), swearing he had communicated that day, and that the Lord Steward told him they (Rosso and Chiapin) were afraid the league would not be concluded. He then said, “I shall make the league with Italy, and will send Mons. de la Morette to England to exhort that King to join it. I did honour to the Viceroy because he saved my life at the battle, and was the cause of my release. Morette will vindicate my conduct to the King of England against the charge of negotiating an agreement with the Emperor through the Viceroy.” With regard to concluding the league, the King said the Chancellor was old and naturally lazy (e di natura pigro), but that the articles would indubitably be stipulated.
	Cognac, 21st May. Registered by Sanuto, 2nd June.
	[Italian.]
May 22. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 10.	1286. The Doge and College to Lorenzo Orio, Ambassador in England.
	Received the communication made to him by the King. Have gladly heard the confirmation from the King of his extreme regard for the State and their affairs. To assure his Majesty of the Signory's eternal obligation, and perform the like office with Cardinal Wolsey. Perceive that the King urged him to write in haste for the mandate and instructions necessary for the conclusion of the league, he, together with his Council, having determined to join it as a principal contracting party. Have already complied with his Majesty's request by sending powers to France, to be transmitted to England. Have hastened the despatch the more, knowing that the castles of Milan and Cremona (whose importance for the liberty of Italy is notorious to everybody) were straitened for provisions, and could not long hold out. Considered it therefore absolutely necessary to succour those castles; but this cannot be done before the conclusion of the league.
	By letters from Rome understand that the Pope has received letters from his Nuncio in England, purporting that the King wishes the league to be stipulated there, whereas the Pope was desirous of its being concluded in France, so that on its conclusion the castle of Milan might be the more speedily relieved. This is also the Signory's wish. Not that his Holiness and the Signory do not desire all honour and glory for the King and Cardinal, but, owing to the peril to which the fortresses of Milan are exposed, should the ratification of the league be referred to England, the delay which would be caused by the journey could not but prove injurious, with evident risk of the Duke's being unable to maintain himself in the Milanese. This is one of the chief objects of the confederacy, and has always been desired by the King and Cardinal, who are very well aware that the loss of these fortresses would endanger the undertaking, and the projects for the liberty of Italy.
	If aware that the league has not yet been ratified in France, and it be doubtful where the ratification is to take place, to go to the King and Cardinal in the Signory's name, and request them immediately to send powers to their ambassadors in France, with orders to ratify there. If, on the other hand, the most Christian King should have sent powers to his ambassadors in England to ratify there, then to ratify the league in England.
	In case the King of England has already consented to join the league, and sent powers to his ambassadors in France to ratify there, to thank his Majesty, and assure him of the Signory's desire to gratify him in all matters.
	Have comprehended the request made to him by Cardinal Wolsey for copies of the books, &c., (fn. 8) but as they have not yet received the list of them (I'indice de quelli), to let his right reverend Lordship know that, on receiving notice of the sort of books he wishes for, they will endeavour to gratify his wish, being always ready so to do whenever the opportunity offers.
	[Italian.]
May 22. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 10.	1287. The Doge and College to Lorenzo Ohio, Ambassador in England.
	The league should be concluded in France, and not in England. Much disturbed by the delay, and by the increasing risk lest the castles of Milan and Cremona surrender from want of provisions. The Pope feels similar vexation, and is dissatisfied with his Nuncio in England, the prothonotary Gambara, whom he accuses of having been the cause of this confusion, and of having acted contrary to his Holiness's will and commission. The Pope has again sent express to D. Capino, to do his utmost to ratify in France; and in case he should be unable to accomplish this, he has sent powers for the ratification in England.
	[Italian.]
May 22. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 10.	1288. The Same to the Same.
	Letters from their secretary in France, dated from the 7th to the 13th instant, announce receipt of the powers from the State to conclude the league there, and the firm disposition of his most Christian Majesty and his Council so to do.
	[Italian.]
May 23. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 334.	1289. League against Charles V.
	Summary of the clauses concerning England in the league made, signed, and sealed at Cognac on the 23rd (sic) May 1526, between Pope Clement VII., Francis I., King of France, the Signory of Venice, the Duke of Milan, and the Republic of Florence, against the Emperor Charles V. (fn. 9)
	The Emperor, upon payment to the King of England of what he owes him, to be received into the league.
	An honorable place to be reserved in the league for the King of England, who is to join it within the term of three months, and on his entry he is to be the principal and protector of the league; the King of France being under great obligation to him for having aided his release.
	Should the King of England join the league, he is to pay 25,000 ducats per month, there being given to him, out of what shall be gained from the enemy, territory in Italy for his natural son to the amount of 30,000 ducats annually, and 10,000 ducats annually to the Right Reverend Cardinal of York, to be derived from territory, of which he demands the investiture in perpetuity. (fn. 10)
	The contracting parties to name their colleagues and adherents, amongst whom the King of England is named by the Pope, the most Christian King, and the Signory of Venice.
	Registered by Sanuto, 2nd June.
	[Italian.]
May 23. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. pp. 339, 340.	1290. The Holy League.
	Commentary on the clauses of the confederacy, called “Most Holy,” between the Pope, the King of the French, the Venetians, Duke Francesco Sforza, and the Florentines against the Emperor.
	Allusion to the attempt made to tamper with the good faith of the King of England and of Cardinal Wolsey, by means of Italian donations (largitionibus Italicis).
	Registered by Sanuto, 2nd June.
	[Latin.]
May 23. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. pp. 340, 341.	1291. The Holy League.
	Clauses of the confederacy above mentioned.
	Registered by Sanuto, 2 nd June.
	[Latin, 11 pages.]
May 25. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 299.	1292. The Bailiff and Captain of Crema to the Doge and Signory.
	The Viceroy [Charles de Lannoi] and his companions entered Cognac on the 8th, the King having prepared a very pompous entry for them. He came to see whether the King would keep his promises.
	On Ascension Day the peace with the King of England was confirmed with great pomp and display, there being present in the church the Viceroy and his companions; and all that the Regent did, during the King's stay in Spain, was confirmed. On the morrow the envoys from the Pope, England, and the Venetians sat in council with the whole French ministry (the Viceroy and the other Imperialists taking no further part in the matter), and they made great promises (e feceno di bello).
	At Cognac nothing is attended to but dancing and entertainments, and masquerades, and jousts, and many other amusements.
	Crema, 25th May. Registered by Sanuto, 27th May.
	[Italian.]
May 25. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 427.	1293. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	Went to the King to thank him for having concluded the league. His Majesty said that the Viceroy told him he suspected it, and that he, the King, replied that nothing was yet settled but he should negotiate with the powers. The Viceroy then requested him to await the reply from Spain about Hesdin, but the King declined. His Majesty added that the English ambassadors had told him that their King is urgent for the league with Italy, but he did not tell them it was already concluded. He wishes to receive its ratification.
	Cognac, 25th May. Registered by Sanuto, 12th June.
	[Italian.]
May 27. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 426.	1294. Gasparo Spinelli to the Doge and Signory.
	Since his last letter, dated the 13th May, announcing the death of the Ambassador Orio, has been wandering about the island. Was obliged to go a distance of 60 miles to find a lodging, such was the panic caused by this death; and much greater caution than usual is now observed. Was therefore put to great expense. Has six horses and 11 attendants. Returned subsequently to London and spoke with the Papal Nuncio, the prothonotary Gambara, who said he had letters from Rome from the Pope, desiring him to urge the King of England to write to the most Christian King to conclude the league, and attack, &c. The prothonotary wished therefore to speak to the Cardinal, but was unable to do so, his right reverend Lordship being indisposed at Richmond, and having also declined to receive the French ambassador.
	Has received the Signory's letters addressed to the deceased ambassador, together with the mandate for negotiating the league, which is of no use, not being in his name.
	Lives expensively (sta con spesa), and has had money in advance for his maintenance from Stefano Fasan, whom the ambassador left his executor. Should the Signory intend him (Spinelli) to remain, requests to be provided with money, and with instructions as to the late ambassador's attendants, and the other plague patients who are living apart. Wishes the horses now in his charge to remain with him, as he will have to follow the King and Cardinal about the island. Cannot go on foot, and if he rode it would be very expensive.
	London, 27th May. Registered by Sanuto, 10th June.
	[Italian.]
May 28. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 325.	1295. Marco Foscari to the Doge and Signory.
	The Pope has received letters from the prothonotary Gambara in England, dated 20th April. The King would not be the first in the league, but wishes it to be made, and will join it subsequently The Pope says he has 20,000 ducats at Bologna with which to raise infantry. The Pope sends Ruccellai to France to stipulate the league, because the Emperor holds his Holiness in small account.
	Rome, 28th May. Registered by Sanuto, 1 st June.
	[Italian.]
May 30. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 383.	1296. Marco Antonio Longin, Secretary of the Venetian Ambassador in Austria, to Marin Sanuto.
	The proceedings in the free towns still continue, especially the preaching, pure and simple, of the Word, which suffices for those who receive it, without further precept.
	The places and towns which reformed, did so with the consent of the whole Senate and population.
	Among these new reformers some dissension remains concerning the Eucharist, and this has caused many of them to withdraw, and to cool in the undertaking. Zuinglius and Œcolampadius have stated their opinions more clearly. A debate was to be held in Switzerland, and it was said that Zuinglius refused to attend; but the debate commenced on the 19th instant at Baden (Bada), near Zurich. Œcolampadius has gone thither, as also Eckius (Eccio) and Faber (el Fabro) to represent the other side. Four presidents have been elected, and two secretaries (notarij). The Switzers invited Erasmus, who excused himself on the plea of ill health. The dispute will turn chiefly on the Sacrament. They (Zuinglius and Œcolampadius?) do not deny that it is a Sacrament, nay, they affirm that all Christ's words are Sacraments (fn. 11); but that the host should not be adored as if the body of Christ were present there. Should this last dogma be sustained, does not know what opinion can be henceforth formed of the Church of Rome.
	Spires, 28th May.
	P.S., 30th May.—The Duke of Saxony and the Elector of Hesse have determined to support the reform of the Church. The Marquis of Baden and both the Brandenburgs follow them. Others have the same policy under consideration; but carnally rather than spiritually.
	Registered by Sanuto, 7th June.
	[Italian.]
May 31. Sanuto Diaries, v. xli. p. 572.	1297. Gasparo Spinelli to the Doge and Signory.
	Narrates his conversations with the Papal Nuncio, Prothonotary di Gambara, who knew that the league had been concluded, and was told by Cardinal Wolsey that he intended marrying the Princess of England to the Duke of Orleans, the most Christian King's second son, that he may reside in England and become popular there. Wishes to receive the mandate, to enable him to conclude the league on the arrival of Mons. de la Morette from France. The Cardinal has written to the [French] King not to allow the Viceroy to pass into Italy.
	The Cardinal will not receive him until after the expiration of 40 days' quarantine.
	London, 31st May. Registered by Sanuto, 28th June.
	[Italian.]