Henry VIII: May 1536, 16-20 | British History Online

Pages 371-391

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 10, January-June 1536. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1887.

Citation:

May 1536, 16-20



[16 May.] Harl. MS. 283, f. 134. B. M. Ellis, 1 Ser. ii. 62.	890. Sir Wm. Kyngston to [Cromwell].
	Was with the King today, and declared the petition of lord Rochford, wherein I was answered. The said Lord desires to speak with you on a matter which touches his conscience. I wish to know your pleasure, because of my promise to him, and also to know the King's pleasure touching the Queen, as well for her confession as for the preparation of scaffolds. The King told me that my lord of Canterbury should be her confessor, and he was here today with her. "The time is short, for the King supposeth the gentlemen to die tomorrow, and my lord of Rochford, with the residue of gentlemen, and as yet without Doctor Allryge (?), which I look for;" but I have told him to be ready to suffer tomorrow, and so he accepts it very well, and will do his best to be ready, "notwithstanding, he would have received his rights, which hath not been used, and in especial here." Yet this day at dinner the Queen said she would go to "anonre" (a nunnery) (fn. 1), and is in hope of life. Hol., p. 1. Mutilated. Endd.
16 May. R. O.	891. Longland Bishop of Lincoln to Cromwell.
	Thanks him for repressing evil persons haunting these parts of Buckinghamshire, as Swynnerton and Threder. The latter shall remain in prison till Cromwell's pleasure is known. Swynnerton is either in London or Essex. His costs were paid by poor men, not having enough for themselves. There is another like preacher with the King's great seal, named Garrard, of little learning and less discretion, against whom Lincolnshire much grudgeth.
	Thanks him for accepting the stewardship of the university. Sends a gift of the next avoidance of the stewardship of Banbury. Cromwell can move the duke of Suffolk for his resignation at time convenient. To show what desire there is for it, sends a copy of a letter from the duke of Richmond. Trusts he will keep it himself, for they have ever been of honor that have had that room. He will have thereby "the manerhode of tall men, which hath good qualities besides."
	Hasilwoode is suing again for the earl of Wiltshire's debts, as executor to "my brother Lucas." Asks Cromwell to stay the matter again, by some commandment or injunction, till he sees the Earl's title, and "his" testament, which the Bishop will show him at Whitsontide.
	Thanks Cromwell, for his nephew John Pate, and his brother the archdeacon of Lincoln. 16 May. Signed. Pp. 2. Add.: Master Secretary. Endd.
	2. Duke of Richmond to [Bishop of Lincoln].
	As the stewardship of Banbury is like shortly to be vacant in consequence of Mr. Norres' trouble (many men thinking that there is no way but one with him,) asks the Bishop for a grant thereof under the chapter seal, that he may exercise the office by his deputy Gyles Forster, master of his horse, the bearer. London, 8 May. Copy, p. 1.
16 May. R. O.	892. Roland Lee, Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, to Cromwell.
	Whereas the Parliament is proclaimed to be held on 8 June next, and I am so far from London, that, considering the frailty of the inhabitants and their love of novelty, it would be better for me to stay where I am, I beg credence for the bearer. Brecknock, 16 May. Signed. P. 1. Add.: Mr. Secretary. Sealed and Endd.
16 May. R. O.	893. Robert Abbot of Malmesbury to Cromwell.
	I received your letter, and find you have been informed that Henry Norries had the stewardship of our house. Sir Edw. Baynton had that office of my predecessor under the convent seal, and Norries never had any interest therein saving the reversion of Sir Edw. Baynton, the which is granted unto him and his son. At the beginning of this next Parliament, I will wait on you to know your pleasure. Malmesbury, 16 May. Signed. P. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
16 May. Titus B. i. 62., B. M. Ellis, 2 Ser. ii. 90.	894. Henry VIII. to Sir John Allen, Mayor of London.
	Commands him to restore to William Blakenhale, chief clerk of the Spicery, the metership of linen cloth and canvas in the city of London, of which he has deprived him. Westm., 16 May 28 Hen. VIII. Signed. P. 1. Add.: To &c., Sir John Allen, knight, mayor of our city of London, and to the alderman of the same. Endd.
16 May. R. O.	895. Thos. Stephyns to the Duke of Norfolk.
	Received the King's letter in favor of John Torner, for the swordbearership of Dublin. The office was granted last Michaelmas to a gentleman who did good service during the rebellion of Thos. Fitzgerald. Has written to the King about it. Asks his influence with the King in consequence of their losses during the rebellion. Requests him to thank Mr. Secretary for his goodness, and to ask him to thank Mr. Brabazon also. There never came a more honest gentleman to this land of his degree, nor willinger for the King's honor and profit. Norfolk's old servant, Robt. Casey, desires the office of searcher and gauger, which he has had since Lewis Bushe died. The land is quiet, but in consequence of the destruction and burning everything is dear. The army was hindered by lack of money. No one can be more willing nor more painful than the Deputy. Dewblynge, 16 May. Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
17 May. Wilkins, iii. 803.	896. Anne Boleyn.
	Sentence pronounced by the archbishop of Canterbury of the nullity of the marriage between the King and Anne Boleyn, in the presence of Sir Thos. Audeley, chancellor, Charles duke of Suffolk, John earl of Oxford, and others, at Lambeth, 17 May 1536.
	Memorandum.—This was sealed on the 10th June, and subscribed by both Houses of Convocation on the 28th.
17 May. Lamb. MS. 616, f. 44. St. P. II. 315.	897. Wm. Brabazon to Cromwell.
	The following Acts have passed the Commons House:—The Acts of Attainder, Succession, First-fruits, Supreme Head, Slander, Appeals, concerning the lands of the duke of Norfolk and others, repeal of Poynings' Act, and an Act for the earl of Ossory. The proctors of the Spiritualty oppose the Supremacy. Some have passed the Higher House, and lack nothing but the Royal assent, which has been deferred for the coming of the Master of the Rolls and the Chief Justice, but my Lord will not wait longer. The Common House is marvellous good for the King's causes. 17 May. Hol., p. 1. Add.: Mr. Secretary. Endd.
17 May.	898. Sir Thomas Cheyney, Warden of the Cinque Ports. See Grants in May. No. 16.
R. O.	899. Ordnance at Calais.
	Certificate of Walter Jhons, gunner, addressed to Viscount Lisle as deputy of Calais, lord Edmond Howard and others of the Council there, declaring "the best shooters of gunners of the company" on five occasions, viz.:—
	1. At the Castle Hill, before Wm. Sympson, under-marshal, and Geo. Gaynsforde, deputy, Wm. Ashton best.
	2. Before Sir Ric. Graynfeld, marshal, and the master of the ordnance, Watyr Jhons best.
	3. At Bechame Tower, before the master of the ordnance, Wm. Gawton best.
	4. At Watyr Fortunes quarter, before Master Gaysford, Nic. Fox best.
	5. At Bechame, before Mr. High Marshal and master of the ordnance, Watyr Jhons best. Large paper, p. 1.
17 May. Otho, C. ix. 91. B. M.	900. Didier de Ste. Jalhe, Master of the Hospital of Jerusalem, to [Henry VIII.]
	Intended to go to England to kiss the King's hand, but the Turkish ships are infesting the Peloponnesus and the Grecian sea, and his brethren have summoned him to Malta, whither he must go with all haste. Has sent Ambrose Cave, "ærarii nostri communis proc[urator ?]," to England, whence he had lately come, to bid the prior and brethren there to salute the King on his behalf. Vienne, 17 May 1536. Signed. Lat., p. 1. Mutilated.
18 May. Vienna Archives.	901. Chapuys to Antoine Perrenot.
	As I hear that letters from England are opened at Calais, you will have more trouble in deciphering several things which but for this might be written clear. I have no news to add to what I write to His Majesty, except to tell you something of the quality of the King's new lady, which the Emperor and Granvelle would perhaps like to hear. She is sister of one Edward Semel, "qua este a sa ma^te," of middle stature and no great beauty, so fair that one would call her rather pale than otherwise. She is over 25 years old. I leave you to judge whether, being English and having long frequented the Court, "si elle ne tiendroit pas a conscience de navoir pourveu et prevenu de savoir que cest de faire nopces." Perhaps this King will only be too glad to be so far relieved from trouble. Also, according to the account given of him by the Concubine, he has neither vigour nor virtue; and besides he may make a condition in the marriage that she be a virgin, and when he has a mind to divorce her he will find enough of witnesses. The said Semel is not a woman of great wit, but she may have good understanding (un bel enigm, qu. engin?). It is said she inclines to be proud and haughty. She bears great love and reverence to the Princess. I know not if honors will make her change hereafter. The news you wrote on the 22nd ult. touching Haurain (fn. 2) and the Sophi are very good, and I pray God your wish may be accomplished towards those who are in grief. London, 18 May 1536. Fr., from a modern copy, pp. 2.
[18 May.] R. O.	902. Sir Wm. Kyngston to [Cromwell].
	I have been with my lord of Rochford, and showed him the clause of your letter. He answered that he had sent you word by Dr. Alryge. Notwithstanding, he says that he made suit to you for promotion of a White Monk, of the Tower Hill, and with your help he was promoted to the abbey of Vale Sante Crewsys, in Cheshire, (fn. 3) and he had for his promotion 100l., and at Whitsuntide next should receive 100l. more, but for this the King has the obligations. He supposes the said abbey is suppressed and the abbot undone, and his sureties also. As yet I have heard nothing of my lord of Canterbury, and the Queen desires much to be shriven. I am very glad to hear of the "executur" of Cales, for he can handle that matter. For the gentlemen, the sheriffs of London must make provision. As yet I hear of no writ, but they are all ready, and, I trust clean, to God. They shall have warning in the morning, and I shall send at once to Master Eretage for carpenters to make a scaffold of such a height that all present may see it. If you wish more to be done, let me know. The Tower.
	You must help my lord of Rochford's conscience for the monk, if need be; and also he spake unto [me] for the bishop of Develyn, for he must have of the said Bishop 250l. Hol., p. 1. Endd.
18 May. R. O.	903. William Freurs to Cromwell.
	I have received letters from my Lord Chamberlain and you, desiring that John Latton and Will. Flemyng, burgesses of the Parliament for the town, should be elected burgesses again. Flemyng is an aged man, and cannot well see nor go; therefore I write to know your pleasure, and whether another shall be chosen to John Latton, or else two new ones. Oxford, 18 May. Signed. P. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
18 May. Otho, C. ix. 54. (fn. 4) B. M.	904. Didier de Ste. Jalhe to [Cromwell].
	To the same effect as No. 900. Vienne, 18 May 1536. Signed. Lat., p. 1. Mutilated.
18 May. R. O.	905. Didier de Saincte Jalhe, Grand Master of the Order of St. John, to Sir Wm. Weston.
	Intended to send the prior of Corbueil to England. He has been at Paris three weeks, unable to continue his journey from ill-health. Now that Weston's nephew and Ambrose Cave say that if he gets to London later than St. John's Day he will not find either the King or Council there, it is determined that he shall not go, and that Weston, with the receiver John Sotten, Cave, and others, shall have an interview with the King. Sends Cave for this purpose. Desires him to tell the King that he would have come himself but for this rumour of war, the preparations of the Turk, and other urgent affairs of the religion, which compel him to return to Malta. Desires him to send word if the King will remain at London, and it is advisable to send some one else. The ambassador of France will take charge of letters. The packet must be addressed to the prior of Corbueil, at St. Jehan de Latterain, at Paris. Vienne, 18 May 1536. Signed. Fr., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
18 May. R. O. St. P. vii. 654.	906. Sir Gregory da Casale to Cromwell.
	Wrote lately that the cardinal of Lorraine had gone to persuade the French king to consent to peace, if his third son had Milan, and was to let the Pope know in 20 days, till when his Holiness would stay at Bologna.
	The French are beginning to suspect the Pope, in consequence of the French ambassador with the Emperor trying to clear himself for having said that the Emperor would agree that the duke of Orleans should have Milan. The Emperor has increased the suspicion by showing that neither his allies nor the Pope would be content with this. There are also certain agreements between the Emperor and the Pope, who has promised not to make war on the duke of Urbino before six months, or on the duke of Ferrara before a year. His Holiness has also given the Catholic Swiss the same pension as Leo X. did; and this, as the French complain, will cause dissension among the Swiss. The Emperor has shown much favor to Peter Lewis Farnese and his family, and given the cardinal Farnese the archbishopric of Monreale, and promised Peter Lewis the marquisate of Novaria. Thinks there is no chance of peace with the Pope's help. It is thought that the French army is deteriorating. The Spaniards have crossed the Dora, which was between the two armies. Thinks the French are safe enough, as Stephen Colonna holds Turin. Carigliano and Fossano are fortified, and the army has retreated to the Vale of Susa. It is not known whether the French will have the Swiss, but the Imperialists say not. The Emperor has crossed to Piacenza on his way to Milan, and is said to be going to the army.
	The bull for summoning the Council is approved by the Consistory. When certain words are added will send a copy.
	His colleague has not yet written to him.
	As soon as he sees the chance of peace from the Pope come to nothing, will hasten to the Emperor. Cannot persuade the French that the king of England has not some alliance with the Emperor, which is reported from many places. Rome, 18 May 1536. Signed. Lat., pp. 4. Add. Endd. Sealed.
18 May. Vienna Archives.	907. Charles V. to Chapuys.
	We have by your man, the bearer, received your two letters and learnt the occurrences with you. You did well to dispatch him to certify us of what has happened about the Concubine; and since the case is so manifest, as we suppose, by the Divine will, and the King takes it to heart as he ought, we think, as we wrote you in our last letters (copy with this) that the King will wish to marry again; and having since our said previous letters thought over the marriages (partiz de mariage) therein mentioned between the said King and the Infanta of Portugal, daughter of the queen of France, our sister, and of don Loys of Portugal, our brother-in-law, we have decided that it will be better openly to declare to the said King, in the way that you shall see most fitting, as the affair of the Concubine proceeds, and you can learn the King's inclinations from Cromwell and others, that, knowing what has taken place, we have charged you to put before him the said marriages, the more to show him the cordial affection we have always retained towards him and the peace of his realm, and that if it please him to listen to them we have good hope, in accordance with the perfect friendship between the king of Portugal and us, of conducting the affair. You shall use your best dexterity to forward the said matches (partiz), which we desire particularly to be able to conduct for several good reasons, and we do not intend you to speak of the other match, of the duchess of Milan, for the said King, unless you see there is no way to the preceding, and that he is seeking another marriage. And since we wrote fully in our preceding letters about the proposals and communications you have had with the King and Cromwell, we will add nothing but that we continue our journey towards Piedmont, where the French king's army is, to do against it what we shall see fit; and from Alessandria, where we shall decide what to do, we will write more fully. Borgo St. Donino, 18 May 1536. Fr., from a modern copy, pp. 6.
19 May. Vienna Archives.	908. Chapuys to Charles V.
	Received on the 7th, by the English ambassador's messenger, the Emperor's letters of the 13th ult. Was unable, from a tertian fever, to visit the King, but communicated the contents to Cromwell, who expressed himself very much gratified to hear, especially with such particulars, of the continuance of the Emperor's goodwill, giving hope, as usual, of reciprocity on the part of his master, and saying that matters could not be in better train, owing to what had taken place as regards the concubine; reminding Chapuys also of what he had said to him on the eve of St. Matthias, when he had given a hint of what was going to take place. He also expressed great desire for Chapuys' recovery, that he might, after the dispatch of the Concubine and her accomplices, come to Court for business. As to the draft copy of the [bull of] privation which the French have got, I think they will make little by it as regards the English, who have been long persuaded that the Holy See was pursuing the matter in its own behalf and pressing your Majesty about it; and they are more jealous lest the French should make immediate profit out of it—by exemption from the pension and from the claims of England in France—than that your Majesty should gain anything; and the Princess, for whom you have most consideration, would be injured by it. This I must point out to Cromwell on every opportunity, as he is incessantly seeking to establish this stricter amity. For this reason, when the English ambassador's messenger on his arrival reported the sincere and perfect goodwill shown by your Majesty to his master, Cromwell sent him immediately to the King, conjuring him to declare it plainly without allowing himself to be disturbed by any appearance of a contrary feeling on the King's part. The said messenger tells me the King answered him that there was no appearance whatever of this goodwill except in words, and that these words were only because the Emperor's affairs did not succeed altogether to his wish, and he wanted the King's help, i.e. pecuniary aid; for as to the rest, however the French might disguise it, he considered your Majesty's forces incomparably greater than theirs, and considered them as already lost.
	The joy shown by this people every day not only at the ruin of the Concubine but at the hope of the Princess' restoration, is inconceivable, but as yet the King shows no great disposition towards the latter; indeed he has twice shown himself obstinate when spoken to on the subject by his Council. I hear that, even before the arrest of the Concubine, the King, speaking with Mistress Jane Semel of their future marriage, the latter suggested that the Princess should be replaced in her former position; and the King told her she was a fool, and ought to solicit the advancement of the children they would have between them, and not any others. She replied that in asking for the restoration of the Princess she conceived she was seeking the rest and tranquillity of the King, herself, her future children, and the whole realm; for, without that, neither your Majesty nor this people would ever be content. Will endeavour by all means to make her continue in this vein. Hopes also to go and speak with the King within three days, and with those of the Council in general and particular. Will also get some of the lords spoken with who have been called hither for the Parliament to commence on the 8th proximo. Thinks the Concubine's little bastard will be excluded from the succession, and that the King will get himself requested by Parliament to marry. To cover the affection he has for the said Semel he has lodged her seven miles hence in the house of the grand esquire, (fn. 5) and says publicly that he has no desire in the world to get married again unless he is constrained by his subjects to do so. Several have already told me, and sent to say that, if it cost them their lives, when Parliament meets they will urge the cause of the Princess to the utmost (il pourteront jusques au boult laffaire de lad. princesse).
	The very evening the Concubine was brought to the Tower, when the duke of Richmond went to say Good night to his father, and ask his blessing after the English custom, the King began to weep, saying that he and his sister, meaning the Princess, were greatly bound to God for having escaped the hands of that accursed whore, who had determined to poison them; from which it is clear that the King knew something about it.
	On the 11th were condemned as traitors Master Noris, the King's chief butler, (sommelier de corps) Master Ubaston (Weston), who used to lie with the King, Master Bruton (Brereton), gentleman of the Chamber, and the groom (varlet de chambre), of whom I wrote to your Majesty by my man. Only the groom confessed that he had been three times with the said putain and Concubine. The others were condemned upon presumption and certain indications, without valid proof or confession. On the 15th the said Concubine and her brother were condemned of treason by all the principal lords of England, and the duke of Norfolk pronounced sentence. I am told the earl of Wiltshire (Voulcher) was quite as ready to assist at the judgment as he had done at the condemnation of the other four. Neither the putain nor her brother was brought to Westminster like the other criminals. They were condemned within the Tower, but the thing was not done secretly, for there were more than 2,000 persons present. What she was principally charged with was having cohabited with her brother and other accomplices; that there was a promise between her and Norris to marry after the King's death, which it thus appeared they hoped for; and that she had received and given to Norris certain medals, which might be interpreted to mean that she had poisoned the late Queen and intrigued to do the same to the Princess. These things she totally denied, and gave to each a plausible answer. Yet she confessed she had given money to Voaiston (Weston), as she had often done to other young gentlemen. She was also charged, and her brother likewise, with having laughed at the King and his dress, and that she showed in various ways she did not love the King but was tired of him. Her brother was charged with having cohabited with her by presumption, because he had been once found a long time with her, and with certain other little follies. To all he replied so well that several of those present wagered 10 to 1 that he would be acquitted, especially as no witnesses were produced against either him or her, as it is usual to do, particularly when the accused denies the charge.
	I must not omit, that among other things charged against him as a crime was, that his sister had told his wife that the King "nestoit habile en cas de soy copuler avec femme, et quil navoit ne vertu ne puissance." This he was not openly charged with, but it was shown him in writing, with a warning not to repeat it. But he immediately declared the matter, in great contempt of Cromwell and some others, saying he would not in this point arouse any suspicion which might prejudice the King's issue. He was also charged with having spread reports which called in question whether his sister's daughter was the King's child. To which he made no reply. They were judged separately, and did not see each other. The Concubine was condemned first, and having heard the sentence, which was to be burnt or beheaded at the King's pleasure, she preserved her composure, saying that she held herself "pour toute saluee de la mort," and that what she regretted most was that the above persons, who were innocent and loyal to the King, were to die for her. She only asked a short space for shrift (pour disposer sa conscience). Her brother, after his condemnation, said that since he must die, he would no longer maintain his innocence, but confessed that he had deserved death. He only begged the King that his debts, which he recounted, might be paid out of his goods.
	Although everybody rejoices at the execution of the putain, there are some who murmur at the mode of procedure against her and the others, and people speak variously of the King; and it will not pacify the world when it is known what has passed and is passing between him and Mrs. Jane Semel. Already it sounds ill in the ears of the people, that the King, having received such ignominy, has shown himself more glad than ever since the arrest of the putain; for he has been going about banqueting with ladies, sometimes remaining after midnight, and returning by the river. Most part of the time he was accompanied by various musical instruments, and, on the other hand, by the singers of his chamber, which many interpret as showing his delight at getting rid of a "maigre vieille et mechante bague," with hope of change, which is a thing specially agreeable to this King. He supped lately with several ladies in the house of the bishop of Carlisle, and showed an extravagant joy, as the said Bishop came to tell me next morning, who reported, moreover, that the King had said to him, among other things, that he had long expected the issue of these affairs, and that thereupon he had before composed a tragedy, which he carried with him; and, so saying, the King drew from his bosom a little book written in his own hand, but the Bishop did not read the contents. It may have been certain ballads that the King has composed, at which the putain and her brother laughed as foolish things, which was objected to them as a great crime.
	Three days after the Concubine's imprisonment the Princess removed, and was honorably accompanied both by the servants of the Little Bastard and by several gentlemen who came of their own accord. Many of her old servants and maids upon these news went to her, and although her gouvernante allowed them to remain, she was warned by me not to accept or retain anyone but those given her by the King her father. What I most fear as regards her is, that when the King is asked by Parliament to restore her to her rights, he will refuse his consent unless the Princess first swears to the statutes invalidating the first marriage and the Pope's authority. To this, I think, she will not easily yield, although I should advise her to acquiesce in everything as far as she can without prejudice to her conscience and her own rights. Desires to know the Emperor's opinion.
	Today (fn. 6) Rochford has been beheaded before the Tower, and the four others above named, notwithstanding the intercession of the bishop of Tarbes, the French ambassador resident, and the sieur de Tinteville, who arrived the day before yesterday, in behalf of one named Vaston (Weston). The Concubine saw them executed from the Tower, to aggravate her grief. Rochford disclaimed all that he was charged with, confessing, however, that he had deserved death for having been so much contaminated and having contaminated others with these new sects, and he prayed everyone to abandon such heresies. The Concubine will certainly be beheaded tomorrow, or on Friday at the latest, and I think the King feels the time long that it is not done already. The day before the putain's condemnation he sent for Mrs. Semel by the Grand Esquire and some others, and made her come within a mile of his lodging, where she is splendidly served by the King's cook and other officers. She is most richly dressed. One of her relations, who dined with her on the day of the said condemnation, told me that the King sent that morning to tell her that he would send her news at 3 o'clock of the condemnation of the putain, which he did by Mr. Briant, whom he sent in all haste. To judge by appearances, there is no doubt that he will take the said Semel to wife; and some think the agreements and promises are already made.
	The Scotch ambassador is still here, and there is no answer about the interview of the two Kings. The said ambassador has told me that his master would not hear of the marriage with the lady of Vendome. Will write what he hears about the interview and the charge of the bailiff of Troyes. The said bailiff, hearing, by the way, the news of the Concubine's imprisonment, delayed some days at Boulogne, pretending to be ill, awaiting news from his master whether any change was to be made in his charge.
	Has just received the Emperor's letters of the 18th ult., with enclosures, which he will use as instructed. Will immediately report how the King takes everything. Has heard that the King, before the said bailiff's arrival, took in very good part the Emperor's proposal. So Briant told Mrs. Semel and other ladies on the day the King sent to inform her of the putain's condemnation; and though Brian is French in his leanings, be does not forbear to praise your Majesty in these matters, and to abuse and laugh at the French, who had made a foolish and shameful reply about the combat between your Majesty and the king of France. Cannot write more fully about the King's inclination to negotiate. Cromwell puts him continually in hope, especially by what has happened to the Concubine. Will understand matters better when he has spoken with the King, which he will do as soon as he can. Must not omit to mention that although the King at Easter pressed him strongly for the four articles in writing, he has since praised Chapuys for his refusal and for his further diplomacy; and Cromwell, the same day, admitted to him that the request for those articles in writing was not justified by any suspicion. On Chapuys asking what could have turned the King so suddenly from the intention he had so persistently declared to Chapuys, Cromwell could give no other reason except that the King had taken some suspicion of himself by reason of the letters your Majesty had written to him.
	Having written the above the day before yesterday, thought it well to delay the despatch to inform the Emperor of the execution of the Concubine, which was done at 9 o'clock this morning within the Tower, in presence of the Chancellor, Cromwell, and others of the Council, and a great number of the King's subjects, but foreigners were not admitted. It is said that although the bodies and heads of those executed the day before yesterday have been buried, her head will be put upon the bridge, at least for some time. She confessed herself yesterday, and communicated, expecting to be executed, and no person ever showed greater willingness to die. She requested it of those who were to have charge of it, and when the command came to put off the execution till today she appeared very sorry, praying the Captain of the Tower that for the honor of God he would beg the King that, since she was in good state and disposed for death, she might be dispatched immediately. The lady who had charge of her has sent to tell me in great secresy that the Concubine, before and after receiving the sacrament, affirmed to her, on the damnation of her soul, that she had never been unfaithful to the King. London, 19 May 1536. Fr., from a modern copy, pp. 10. The original endorsed: A Lempereur —De lambassadeur en angleterre du xix^e de May, receues a Asti le v^e de Juing.
19 May. Vienna Archives.	909. Chapuys to Granvelle.
	Refers him for the news to his letter to the Emperor. Hopes to make amends for his present brevity by writing to him the history of the conduct of this English Messalina or Agrippina during her imprisonment. The woman who has her in charge will not conceal anything from Chapuys. She has already sent to tell him some news, among others that the said Messalina could not imagine that anyone but Chapuys had got her in disgrace with the King, for ever since he came to Court the King has regarded her with an evil eye. It is well for Chapuys she did not escape, because with her humanity she would have given him to the dogs to eat. There are still two English gentlemen (fn. 7) detained on her account, and it is suspected that there will be many more, because the King has said he believed that more than 100 had to do with her. You never saw prince nor man who made greater show of his horns or bore them more pleasantly. I leave you to imagine the cause.
	Owing to my illness, and to await the last act of the story, besides that George must have informed you what was to follow, I have not hastened to write sooner. London, 18 May 1536.
	Yesterday the archbishop of Canterbury declared by sentence that the Concubine's daughter was the bastard of Mr. Norris, and not the King's daughter. This already removes an obstacle in the way of the Princess, who, I hope, whatever difficulty the King has made hitherto, will be declared true heiress of the kingdom, not as born of lawful marriage, but as legitimate propter bonam fidem parentum. Others tell me that the said Archbishop had pronounced the marriage of the King and Concubine invalid on account of the King having had connection with her sister, and that, as both parties knew of this, the good faith of the parents cannot make the said bastard legitimate. Although the matter is not much to be relied on, many think that most of the new bishops "ont davoir leur Sainct Marten," because, having persuaded the Concubine that she had no need to confess, she grew more audacious in vice; and, moreover, they persuaded her that according to the said sect it was lawful to seek aid elsewhere, even from her own relations, when her husband was not capable of satisfying her. The Concubine, before her marriage with the King, said, to increase his love, that there was a prophecy that about this time a queen of England would be burnt, but, to please the King, she did not care. After her marriage she boasted that the previous events mentioned in the prophecy had already been accomplished, and yet she was not condemned. But they might well have said to her, as was said to Cæsar, "the Ides have come, but not gone." Has no doubt that if the Emperor intends to negociate with the English he will send some one to give greater weight to the affair, according to the letters of his Majesty; and if the said personage could negociate before the conclusion of Parliament, it would be very advantageous both for the interests of the Princess and for the rest. If he come about St. John's Day, he will probably assist at the new marriage and coronation, in which the King intends to do wonders. He has already given orders to build a vessel like the "Busentaure de Venice," to carry the lady from Greenwich hither. London, 19 May. Fr., from a modern copy, pp. 3.
[19] May. Otho, C. x. 223. B. M. Burnet, i. 327. (fn. 8) Ellis, 1 Ser. ii. 64.	910. Sir Wm. Kingston to Cromwell.
	"Syr, thys shalbe to advertyse you I have reysayved your letter, wherin yo[u would] have strangerys conveyed yowt of the Towre, and so thay be by the [means] of Richard Gressum and William Loke and Wythepolle, bot the numbre of stra[ngers passed] not xxx., and not mony hothe (sic), and the imbassitor of the Emperor had a ser[vant] ther, and honestly put yowt. Sir, yf we have not anowre serten [as it may] be knowen in London, I thynke he (sic) wilbe bot few, and 1 thynke [a reasonable] humbure ware best, for I suppose she wylle declare hyr self to b[e a good] woman for alle men, bot for the Kynge, at the our of hyr de[ath, for this] mornynge she sent for me that I myght be with hyr at [such time] as she reysayved the gud Lord, to the intent I shuld here hy[r] s[peak as] towchyng hyr innosensy alway to be clere; and in the writ[ing of this] she sent for me. And at my comynge she sayd, 'Mr. Kyngston, I h[ear say I shall] not dy affore none, and I am very sory therfore, for I thowt[h to] be dede [by this time], and past my payne.' I told hyr it shuld be now payne, it [was so sotell. And then she said, 'I] heard say the executor was very gud, and I have a lyt[el neck,' and put he]r hand abowt it, lawynge hartely. I have sene [many men and a]lso wemen executed, and al thay have bene in gre[at sorrow, and to my knowle]ge thys lady hasse mech joy and plesure in dethe. Sir, [her almoner is contin]ewaly with hyr, and hasse bene syns ii. of the cl[ock after midnight. This is] the affecte of hony thynge that ys here at t[his time. And thus fare you] welle. Your Willm. Ky[ngston]." Hol. Add.: To Master Secretory.
Vienna Archives.	911. Anne Boleyn, Rochford, &c.
	"Execution criminal hecha en Inglatierra el 16 (fn. 9) de Mayo 1536."
	The count (viscount) Rochefort, brother of the queen (unjustly so called) Anne Boleyn, was beheaded with an axe upon a scaffold before the Tower of London. He made a very catholic address to the people, saying he had not come thither to preach, but to serve as a mirror and example, acknowledging his sins against God and the King, and declaring he need not recite the causes why he was condemned, as it could give no pleasure to hear them. He first desired mercy and pardon of God, and afterwards of the King and all others whom he might have offended, and hoped that men would not follow the vanities of the world and the flatteries of the Court, which had brought him to that shameful end. He said if he had followed the teachings of the Gospel, which he had often read, he would not have fallen into this danger, for a good doer was far better than a good reader. In the end, he pardoned those who had condemned him to death, and asked the people to pray for his soul. After him Norris was beheaded, then Weston and Brereton, and Marc, the player on the spinnet, who said scarcely anything except to cry mercy of God and the King, and beg people to pray for their souls. Brereton and Marc were afterwards quartered.
	The said Queen (unjustly called) finally was beheaded upon a scaffold within the Tower with open gates. She was brought by the captain upon the said scaffold, and four young ladies followed her. She looked frequently behind her, and when she got upon the scaffold was very much exhausted and amazed. She begged leave to speak to the people, promising to say nothing but what was good. The captain gave her leave, and she began to raise her eyes to Heaven, and cry mercy to God and to the King for the offence she had done, desiring the people always to pray to God for the King, for he was a good, gentle, gracious, and amiable prince. She was then stripped of her short mantle furred with ermines, and afterwards took off her hood, which was of English make, herself. A young lady presented her with a linen cap, with which she covered her hair, and she knelt down, fastening her clothes about her feet, and one of the said ladies bandaged her eyes.
	Immediately the executioner did his office; and when her head was off it was taken by a young lady and covered with a white cloth. Afterwards the body was taken by the other ladies, and the whole carried into the church nearest to the Tower of London. It is said that she was condemned to be burned alive, but that the King commuted her sentence to decapitation. Thus, he who wrote this billet says that, according to old writings, he has seen the prophecy of Marlin fulfilled. Sp., from a modern copy, pp. 2.
Ib.	2. French translation of the preceding, pp. 2 (modern copy).
	A copy of this will be found in the Rymer Transcripts in the Record Office (145, No. 7); and the part relating to Anne Boleyn's execution has been printed by, Gachard in his "Analectes Historiques," I., 17, note. An English translation of the whole, except the heading, will be found in Froude's "The Pilgrim," 116.
R. O.	912. Queen Anne Boleyn.
	Debts owing to the Queen.
	Archbishop of Canterbury, 400l. Bp. of Salisbury, 200l. Sir Edw. Baynton, 200l. John Asheley, 100l. Mr. Harper, 50l. Edm. Harvy, 33l. 6s. 8d. Geo. Tayllour, 30l. Sir Jas. Boleyn, "as I think," 50l. The lady of Worcester, "as I think," 10l.= 1,073l. 6s. 8d.
	With Tomson at Greenwich, 6 "kene." Gold and silver plate, a great gold chain, many great strange pieces of gold and "suffrance" in the keeping of Ant. Deny at Westminster. 2 ivory altar candlesticks and a pair of knives trimmed with gold with Geo. Tayllour. Hangings at Hanworth, and other things in Mr. Lovell's keeping. Bedding and hangings at Greenwich, in Tomson's keeping. Owing of the last half-year, ended at Michaelmas, 400l., whereof there are divers bills to be paid. Nothing is received for this half year ended at Lady Day. Pp. 2. Endd.: Certain debts due to the late queen Anne.
	913. Queen Anne Boleyn.
R. O.	"The Queen's reckoning, beginning in December, anno xxvii. Hen. VIII."
	12 Dec.:—40 yds. garnish of Venice gold for a nightgown, at 4s. To Blase, her "brotherer," ½ lb. Venice silver, 24s. Stuff delivered to Floide, yeoman of her wardrobe, Stywarde her saddler, and Jervice, servant to Mr. Everest. 18 Jan.:—Boat-hire from Greenwich to London and back to take measure of caps for my lady Princess, and again to fetch the Princess's purple satin cap to mend it. 23 Jan.:—25 yds. of cadace fringe, morrey color, delivered to Skutte, her tailor, for a gown for her Grace's woman fool, and a green satin cap for her. A purple satin cap, laid with a rich caul of gold, the work being roundelles of damask gold, made for my lady Princess. 19 Feb.:—Tassels of fine Florence gold to Hen. Cryche, clerk of the Wardrobe. 20 Feb.:—"A pair of pyrwykes" for my lady Princess, delivered to my lady mistress. 28 Feb.:—A button of silk and gold, delivered to Mrs. Coffyn. 10 March:—2¼ yds. crimson satin, at 15s., an ell of "tuke" and crimson fringe for the Princess's cradle head. 13 March:—Crimson fringe for a chair, to Grene, her coffer-maker. 2 fine pieces of "nydle rybande" to roll her Grace's hair withal. 17 March:—6 "forfruntes" wrought with laid work, delivered to Mrs. Margery. 20 March:—A white satin cap laid with a rich caul of gold for the Princess, 4l., and another of crimson satin, 3l. 13s. 4d. 2 rich tassels of Florence gold for your Grace's beads, 10s.; a pound of starch, 4d. 20 April:—To Floide and Thos. Chapell, a fringe of Venice gold and silver for the little bed. To Baven, the bed-maker, fringe for the great bed. Green riband to garnish a pair of clavichords. Green fringe "to perform the green chair." 27 April:—Venice gold fringe and silk and gold points for a saddle for my lady Margaret. 2 round buttons of silk and gold for the bridle. 28 April:—Silver and gold fringe, black silk fringe, and gold and silver buttons for a saddle for your Grace. 2 leading reins with great buttons and long tassels. Red fringe to mend the harness of the Queen's mules. A cap of taffeta covered with a caul of damask gold for the Princess, 4 mks. And many other items.
	Total, 68l. 4s. 1½d. Pp. 9. Endd.: A book of the Queen's debts.
	914. Anne Boleyn's Debts.
R. O.	["Debts owin]ge by the late queen Anne at the time of her death."
	The wardrobe of robes. Mercers:—To Wm. Lok, Ambros Barker, Thos. Abraham, Hen. Brayne, Wm. Pecoke, Ric. Gresshame, and Symonds Low, 218l. 2s. 8½d. Drapers: Chr. Campyon, John Middleton, Wm. Hewtson, Rowe, and Ph. Herderman, 27l. 5s. 0¾d. Tailors:—John Malte and Scutte, 34l. 9s. 8d. Embroiderers: — Gilliame, Wm. Ibgrave, and Stephen Umble, 55l. 1s. 6d.
	John Aware, clothier, 11l. 11s. 4d. Lawrence Carewe, fustian maker, 28s. Mrs. Curtes, Mrs. Kelinge, and Mrs. Phillips, silkwomen, 7l. 12s. 10d. Sharpe, pinner, 21s. 4d. Thos. Fretton, groom of the wardrobe of robes, 110s. Robt. Everest, yeoman of the wardrobe of robes, 119s. 4d. Wm. Greene, coffer maker, 60s. 4d. Ric. Sylkokes, gold wire drawer, 38l. Thos. Adington, for furs, 29l. 19s. 2d. Thos. Hardy, hosier, 22s. Baptiste, dyer, 34l. 16s. 6d. Arnolde, shoemaker, 42s. 6d. Costs of the Maundy, 27 Hen. VIII., 31l. 3s. 9½d. Total, 508l. 5s. 11¾d.
	Wardrobe of beds:—
	William Lok and Symson, mercers, 30l. Os. 11½d. Stephen Umble, embroiderer, 26l. 9s. 4d. Dormer, linendraper, 6l. 4s. 8d. Bawen and Chapell, bed-makers, 9l. 14s. 4d. Rypley, joiner, 39s. Bayne, ironmonger, 72s. 8d. Roman, the King's farrier, and Cornelys Smyth, 6l. 8s. 2d. Greene, coffer-maker, 104s. 2d. Mrs. Vaughanne, silkwoman, 68l. 4s. 1½d. Cloth of gold, 7l. 20d. Androw, paynter, 29s. 4d. Total, 166l. 8s. 5d.
	The stable:—
	Pecoke, mercer, 11l. 12s. Wm. Hewtson, draper, 14l. 6s. Gilliame and Stephen Umble, embroiderers, 20l. 6s. 4d. Edw. Stewerd, saddler, 21l. 4s. 10d. The farrier, 105s. 4d. Oats, &c. by the account of Denys Coppes, avener and clerk of the stable, ended 31 March 27 Hen. VIII., 59l. 6s. 0¾d. Wages of the avener and yeoman of the Queen's horses, 24l. 17s. 3d. Total, 156l. 17s. 9¾d.
	Thos. Alsoppe, apothecary, 41l. 9s. 10d. Nic. Thorne, of Bristow, for 49 lb. of slevyd silk of Granatho, at 25s., delivered in accordance with a letter of her hand, dated Westminster, 14 Dec., 61l. 5s.
	Total debts, 934l. 7s. 0½d. Large paper, formerly a roll. Pp. 8. Endd. Mutilated.
R. O.	2. Another copy, omitting the last item. Pp. 7. Mutilated.
19 May. R. O.	915. Henry VIII. and Jane Seymour.
	Dispensation by Cranmer to Henry VIII. and Jane Seymour, to marry, although in the third and third (fn. 10) degrees of affinity, without publication of banns. Lamehithe, 19 May 1536. Parchment, p. 1. Signed: "T. Cantuarien."
19 May. R. O.	916. George Gyffard to Cromwell.
	According to the King's commandment we have perused four religious houses,—Chacomb, Catisby, Canons Assheby and Seuisley; and on the 17th instant have been at St. James's Abbey, Northampton, of which the head is a right discreet man, a good husbander, and well beloved of all. He was appointed abbot three years ago by you. By his alms there is relieved three or four score folks of the town and country adjoining, daily. The yearly value of the lands is 207l.; the house stately, in very good repair, and standing much to the relief of the town of Northampton. In consideration of the great good done to the poor, I beg your favor for the abbot, and that you will be a mean to the King that he may reasonably redeem it. The inhabitants of the town of Buckingham according to your letters sent them for nomination of Mr. Pope and me to be burgesses, have named us both. I think I should not be fit as I am in this commission, which cannot be finished in 10 or 11 weeks. I wish to know whether I shall be at the beginning of this Parliament according to your request, and so leave the King's business, which, in that case, cannot be executed without a new commission. St. James', 19 May. Hol., p. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
19 May. R. O.	917. Edmund Knyghtley and others to Cromwell.
	We have exercised the King's commission at divers houses, viz., Chacumbe, Assheby, Catesby, Sewesley, and St. James's Abbey nigh Northampton. St. James's is a goodly solemn house in church and choir, meet for one of treble the lands. It is in substantial repair, of old foundation, and the goodliest barn that ever was seen for stone and timber. There are many poor in Northampton, and they are greatly relieved by this house, which has a good report through the whole town. We have been well entertained by the abbot, who showed himself very diligent and plain in all that we have required of him for furthering the King's commission. We cannot certify you of the values of these houses. If every man had done his part at the first commission this had not been in danger now, and you might do a very meritorious deed, with much honor to the King, if this house were allowed to continue. Northampton, 19 May. Signed: By the Kynges Commissioners—Edmund Knyghtley—John Lane—George Gyffard—Robt. Burgoyne. P. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd. Sealed.
19 May. R. O.	918. Antony Pykeryng to Lady Lisle.
	I have delivered to Wm. Colle 7½ oz. of gold and 2s. 6d. st. to pay for dyeing and dressing your kersey. The gold cost 5s. an oz.; you gave me 7½ cr., which is 37s. 6d., and owe me 2s. 6d. On the 17th instant lord Rochford, Master Norys, Master Weston, Master Brwerton, and Markes of the Privy Chamber were put to death on Tower Hill. Today the Queen was put to death within the Tower in the presence of a thousand people. London, 19 May.
	Apologises for his rude writing. Hol., p. 1. Add.: At Calais.
19 May. R. O.	919. John Husee to Lord Lisle.
	I have received your letter with the spurs. With all my efforts I have been unable to come to the King's presence. "His Grace came not abroad except it were in the garden, and in his boat at night (at which times it may become no man to prevent him), this 14 days." But now that these matters of execution are past I hope soon to speak with him and deliver your spuis. Lord Rocheford, Mr. Norrys, Bruriton, Weston, and Markes suffered with the axe on the scaffold at Tower Hill on Wednesday the 17th, and died very charitably. The Queen suffered with sword this day within the Tower, upon a new scaffold, and died boldly. I can hear nothing of Mr. Russell of the King's pleasure. I fear he will profit me little in your affairs, but I will be in hand with him, and learn if you shall come over this Parliament. I hope now to have leisure to remind Mr. Secretary of his promises towards your Lordship's living. I will tomorrow present him your "brews" (?) and declare the matter concerning the "mares" (marsh). I have been divers times in hand with Mr. Treasurer touching Suowden's room. He says he may lawfully keep it still, but if any command come to put him out, he will speak to the King ere his departure to St. George's feast. But he will not trouble the King till he come again on Whitsunday. He has seen the King's bill and the copy of the King's letter, but I can get no other answer of him than before written. Any wine you send for Mr. Secretary will be well received. I wish you had written to Mr. Hennage, for I think him the trustiest man in the Court. It is said my lord of Northumberland is dead, but I cannot certify it. Mr. Payge and Mr. Wyat remain in the Tower. The most of the late Queen's servants are set at liberty to seek service elsewhere. Mr. Aylmer will explain by mouth something I cannot write. London, 19 May.
	I can get no answer touching the friar. Hol., pp. 2. Add.
19 May. R. O.	920. John Husee to Lady Lisle.
	Mr. Basset had ridden into the country before your last letter came; but if I see no further danger I will cause him to return after the holidays. I trust to order Mr. George to your satisfaction. Mr. Selyard and others will devise the best they can against lord Dawbny's coming up. As to your weir, there is no doubt you may cause it to be made like others; but I will ask Mr. Popley to learn Mr. Secretary's mind therein. When I go to Hampshire I will show Mr. Wyndsor your pleasure touching Leake. I am sorry you were ill when you last wrote, but I hope you are better. Annys Woodrove has brought two dozen quails, which I will see delivered to Mr. Skutt; but I see small good to be done at his hand, though I have spoken to him for some cheap garments. I have got a gentlewoman who I hope will please you. She is of a good age and well brought up, and will be with you in 10 or 12 days. She will take out the sample of Anth. Huse's wife's cushion.
	"The late Queen suffered this day in the Tower, who died boldly; and also her brother, Mr. Noreys, Bruirton, Weston, and Markes suffered the 17th day of this instant upon Tower Hill; all which died charitably. God take them to his mercy if it be his pleasure. Mr. Paige and young Wyat are in the Tower. What shall become of them God best knoweth."
	George Taylor is merry, but he and the rest of his late master's servants are at liberty to serve where they please; however, the King has retained some of them. London, 19 May.
	You will receive by the bearer nine cramp-rings of silver, which I have got with much ado of John Williams. He says he never had so few of gold as this year, as the King had most himself, but next year he will make you amends. Hol., pp. 2. Add.
19 May.	921. The Bishop of Aberdeen to Cromwell.
	The letter printed as of this date in St. P. v. 49, appears to be of the year 1535. See Vol. VIII., No. 734.
19 May. Add. MS. 8,715, f. 249. B. M.	922. Bishop of Faenza to Mons. Ambrogio.
	The king of England, a fortnight before he imprisoned his wife, her father, mother, brother, and friends, wrote the kindest and most loving letters, saying that he did not trust what the Emperor said to him, and wished to share the fortune of the French king, who is very desirous of having the honor of bringing him back to obedience to the Pope, and is trying to do it. He praised his ambassador in England, nephew of the cardinal d'Agramonte. "That woman" will doubtless be put to death. As the King allows certain doctrines in favor of the Church to be preached which he had formerly prohibited, desists from suppressing (levare) those abbeys which he had ordered to be suppressed, and has sent to seek the archbishop of Canterbury and another who had fled, being friends of the woman and Lutherans; it is thought here that he may be persuaded to the truth. Ital. Modern copy. Pp. 7. Headed: Al Signor Protonotario Ambrogio. Da Sueyeu (Sury le Comtal), 19 May 1536.
Egerton MS. 2,603, f. 24. B. M.	923. — to Henry VIII.
	Today the Emperor sent for the ambassadors of Venice, and showed them his pleasure concerning the determination of their "unice" subsidy granted for the defence of Italy, whereof the duke of Urbyn is captain; and also concerning his prefixed purpose to invade France in three sundry places by sea and land. He protested to them both, that as the French king has these many years attempted his destruction, and interrupted his goodly enterprises against the Infidels, "and the Turque prepared mortal enemies to our faith and religion," to the perturbation and confusion of Christendom, he would now teach him what it is so uncharitably, tediously, cruelly, unchristianly, and incessantly to provoke his patience without a reasonable cause. This he has long suffered for the love of God, whose quarrel he has evermore studied to defend. Was told this by one of the said ambassadors, who thought it worth the King's knowing with speed, so that before "your integrity join with any prince in league with the Turque, it know this man's power," who was never more strong, and his just provocation. However, he (the ambassador) knows, as no man better, that your Grace will be no part-taker against the Emperor, unless on account of some marriage with the French king's daughter, which it is commonly said is already "offered you to alter your pious mind in that behalf."
	Is not ignorant of the King's prudence, "trusting to see for that, that to my great comfort both these princes, to your eternal renown and honor, doth now seek upon your love and favor, none otherwise surely than co-rivals, equally beloved of a fair beautiful woman, desire by all worldly means to be with that goodly creature equally preferred, that estimation conjoincte with a fear, that is that they shall no more fear your old accustomed puissance than sincerely love you; and precordially and indifferently bestowing yourself if the rumors of this Court be true, that is, if your Grace be now a widower, upon the beautiful princess of Portugal, the queen of France her daughter that now is." In Wriothesley's hand (a translation ?), pp. 2. Endd.: The copie of a lr~e.
Vit. B. xiv. 170. B. M.	924. [Salvatore di . . . . .] to—.
	"Hic est ordo . . . . . . . . . . . .
	Italo q. v . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
	"Postquam applicui Lugdinum s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [Johan]. Battista de Salvago de Janua, unde co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fuit sic tarde adventus tuus; ego . . . deba . . . . . . . . . . . subspendi multos fratres et decapitare duos (fn. 11) no . . . . . . . . . tun[c] . . . tabam, quia vos Parisiis tenetis pontificem pro capite ecclesiæ, et nos tenem[us regem] . . . . . . . . quod ipsi fuerunt decapitati. Unde omnes poterant liberari si confirma . . . . . . . . . . . . et magis voluerunt eligere mortem quam liberari. Sed quia nos sumus . . . . . . . . . . . intelligo a prædicatoribus doctissimis, quod nos debemus obedire reg[i, etiam] in spiritualibus, peto a vobis quid vobis videtur, quia nos sumus . . . . . . . . . . quod inquiram et laborem pro salute animæ meæ. Ego dixi Parisiis et per . . . . . . . . . et Italiam tenemus Papam pro capite ecclesiæ, aliter omnes essemus combusti, . . . . . . . . . opiniones ipsorum sunt efficacissimæ per Paulum in xiii. c^o (fn. 12) etiam ad Ti[tum sic etiam] Petrus, ii. c^o 'Subjecti igitur estote omni humanæ creaturæ propter Deum,' et per . . . . . . . resolutionem ut possim inquirere veritatem et salutem animæ meæ, quia si tale[s opiniones] essent veræ, certum est magister Morus et alii essent martires, quia ips[i potuerunt libe]rari et noluerunt, nam Rex dabat libertatem, si dixissent quod rex est [caput ecclesiæ], unde ostendit mihi literas quasdam in quibus literis trattabatur actus magist[ri Mori pro quo] modo mortuus fuit. Sed postquam literas illas perspexerim, dixi amice . . . . . . quia volo ferre mecum ad Parisios, et ibi pertrattare volo ut talis . . . . . . . . . . tata et ventilata, quia vos habetis plures auctoritates pro rege, et . . . . . . . . dedit mihi literas magis ob declarationem sui animi quam per aliam causam.
	"Iste erit modus inveniendi illum qui dedit mihi literam, [qui] vocatur Joannes Battista de Salvago de Janua.
	"Iste homo manet in domo Arrigi de Salvago, Itali de Janua, in qua . . . . . . . . . . olim manebat dominus Antonius de Vivaldo de Janua, et domu . . . . . . . . . . vos vultis ire ad castrum regis, et ante domum suam est qued[am] . . . . . . . est in medio vico, et ibi invenietis illum qui dedit mihi literas . . . . . . . . vobis dicere a qua parte habuit et per similem viam h . . . . . . . . . . "Frater [Salvator . . . . .]" Mutilated. In the same hand as the next letter.
19 May. Vit. B. xiv. 212. B. M.	925. Salvatore di . . . . . to Jan Battista Salvago.
	"Carissime fr., li disgracii accaschano a li homini et non a li petri, dove . . . . . . . . . . . . perhendiri dolori, ne pena in una per causa che el serenissimo re di . . . . . . . . . . . . lu pricipiu et lu origini dovi haviscino quilla litera laquali mi do[veva] . . . . . . . Moro quando fo decapitato, per che in passare Cales me fo retrovata dove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . mi altri frati, et somo carzarati di modo che stettimo otto jorne . . . . . . . . . . li mei compagni mal trattati inocenti menti me parsi revalare la cos[a] . . . . . . . to io [per causa che non si sapia cui lavia portato] (fn. 13) de modo che loro si partero et restay io sulo carzarato, dilche sono sta[to] . . . . . . ultra di liotto carzarato, et annomi liberato con quisto patto che revera acq . . . . . . . . . litera, dico vobis et testis est mihi Deus, per che loro vi lu potranno dir, quanto ordine . . . . . . ho usato solum non havissero saputo, ma perche sono in manu di justicia et . . . . . . . . . . . . re et non havia ani uno per me, li mei compagni tutti me abandonaro . . . . . . . . . . . tutto, pero non formidati ne habbiati pagura in una, per che accu . . . . . . . . . . . . stato liberato serreti voi dicendo, dovi haviscino simili litera, dilche sono qu . . . . . . . . [in]terrogato como me hani donato quista litera. Io le respose conformi al nostro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . voi volendo investigare el vero secundo che predicavano li predicatore indire . . . . . . . . . . serenissimo esseri capu di la ecclesia per causa che aduchiano multi autorita et per b . . . . . . . . . . . . . conscientia io ve respose che si tenisse simile fantasia io fora aproxato in p . . . . . . . . . . . respose amore Dei vogliati videri et studiare et investigare in Parise si qu . . . . . . . . . . . . . lui essere capu di la ecclesia per causa che me voglio quietare de animo, per che vid . . . . . . . . . . . . . aduchino autorita di Paulo, nui essere subjetti in terra ali principi et regi . . . . . . . . . . . . parlare. Me donascino una litera laqual cotenia lu attu di maystro Mo[ro] . . . . . . . . . . . . . ve la domandai io per portarila a Parise et fare dispotare el caso. Amore Dei m . . . . . . . . . . timore per che dico vobis serreti liberato, altro non dico et continuo prego a Dio . . . . . . . . questa furia di Cales, adi xviiij. di Magio 1536. El serenissimo Re vole inten[dere] . . . . . . me donascino quista lettera, dove voi putteti dire como passan la cosa.
	"El vestro fratre Salvatore Di . . . . . . ." Hol., mutilated. Sicilian dialect. Add.: Al carissimo fratello in X^o M. Jan Battista Salvago, in casa di M. Arrigo Salvago taliano di Jenua. In Londres. Endd.. Salvator Italus.
20 May. Vienna Archives.	926. Chapuys to Granvelle.
	Wrote yesterday very fully to the Emperor and Granvelle. Has just been informed, the bearer of this having already mounted, that Mrs. Semel came secretly by river this morning to the King's lodging, and that the promise and betrothal (desponsacion) was made at 9 o'clock. The King means it to be kept secret till Whitsuntide; but everybody begins already to murmur by suspicion, and several affirm that long before the death of the other there was some arrangement which sounds ill in the ears of the people; who will certainly be displeased at what has been told me, if it be true, viz., that yesterday the King, immediately on receiving news of the decapitation of the putain entered his barge and went to the said Semel, whom he has lodged a mile from him, in a house by the river. Cannot write to the Emperor for the haste of the courier, but will send particulars to him shortly. London, 20 May 1536. Fr., from a modern copy, p. 1.
20 May. R. O.	927. Gisburne Priory.
	Copies of three documents, dated 20, 15, and 18 May 28 Hen. VIII., whereby Jas. Cokerell, D.D., late prior of Our Lady of Gysburne, releases to Robt. Silvester, now prior, and the convent, his claim to a pension of 40l. for four years, in consideration of a mansion in Gysburne, called the Bishop's Place, with one tenement in Hoton, near Gysburne, Wylde Close, and the manor of Ugthorpe.
	The three documents are each signed by Cokerell, the first in the presence of Robt. Tristram, Robt. Pikerd, and John Elveden, witnesses. Endd.
20 May. R. O. St. P. v. 50.	928. James V. to Henry VIII.
	Has received his letters by lord William Howard and the bishop of St. Asaph, and others by Sir Adam Otterburn, complaining that James has deferred the meeting and altered the place at the suggestion of those who bear ill will to their amity. James only desired delay for pregnant causes: he never agreed to York as the place, and his lords would not consent to his going further than Newcastle. Is anxious to confer with Henry before all men, but cannot think, even if his Council agreed to it being at York, that the meeting can take place this year. Linlithgow, 20 May 23 James V. Signed. Add. Endd.
R. O.	2. Duplicate of the preceding. Signed. Add. Endd.
20 May. R. O.	929. John Alcok, Mayor, and the Corporation of Canterbury, to Cromwell.
	Received his letter this 20th May, signifying the King's command that Rob. Darknall and John Bryges should be burgesses for the city of Canterbury. Ordered the commonalty to assemble in the court hall, where 97 citizens and others appeared, and, according to the King's pleasure, "freely, with one voice and without any contradiction," elected the aforesaid. Canterbury, 20 May. P. 1. Add.: Secretary.
	ii. Cromwell's "Remembrances."
	To remember Sir John Gage, Sir William Kingston, and Antony;—Gostwyke, for Finchley;—Sir Humph. Foreste;—the poor men of Somersetshire, for their pardon;—Sir John Wallop;—Sir John Dudeley, for the carvership;—my lord Clinton.—To send for all the three Kings-at-arms.—To remember Dr. Halyfax;—my lady Bercley.—Letters to be written to all ordinaries for preaching for setting out of the King's articles for unity.—To send for Stephen Vaughan to come home.—To remember Stuarde, the sadler. In Cromwell's hand, p. 1. On a fly leaf of the preceding.
	iii. "Remembrances."
	For Audelet of Abingdon:—Touching the abbots of Bermondsey, Evesham, and Faversham, the prior of Coventry, the juries of Yorkshire and of Devonshire.—The abbot of Westminster, for the Nete.—The two Bretons, for their joint patents.—Sir Will. Brereton, for Bromfeld and Yale. Sir John Done, for the fostership of Dalimer.—To remember the Emperor's ambassador.—Also for an answer to be made to the Frenchmen. —To rid Edmund Sextoun.—Item, for the bishopric of Cork.—Item, for signing my Lord Chancellor's bill and warrant.—To remember Wodehowse's suit and land.—To remember the mistress of the maids, and Sir Edmund Bedingfeld and Sir Edward Chamberlain. In Cromwell's hand, p. 1. On the back of the leaf on which the preceding letter was written.
20 May. R. O.	930. Philip Hawford, Cellarer, of Evesham, to Cromwell.
	I am advertised by Mr. Wells of your furtherance of my suit, and will gladly accomplish the promises made by my friends, which shall always be ready when you call me to preferment. Evesham, 20 May. Hol., p. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
20 May. R. O.	931. John Husee to Lord Lisle.
	I spoke this day with Mr. Secretary, presenting him with your "brews," which he thankfully received, and showed him you had wine for him. He said he would not fail to have you in remembrance to the King. As to Leyns Bank and Dyke, you shall ere long have letters from the King declaring his pleasure. As to the friar, he says he would now that he were at the Devil, for he will search out the matter ere long, and as soon as he has leisure will write for the friar's delivery. For this time his Highness has pardoned your coming over to Parliament, wishing you to remain there; so I cannot see that you are likely to have a licence to come over. "Also Mr. Treasurer's pleasure is that your Lordship shall admit an executioner there, though he be an alien; but in case any Englishman will at any time undertake to furnish that room, that then he shall be indelayedly thereunto admitted." Popley desired me to write that Mr. Secretary is not half pleased because Water Skinner was so busy with him for the marsh, saying your Lordship gave him commandment so to do. Please call before you Geo. Kennynges, my deputy in the search of Oye, for Mr. Receiver of Marke is not content with him. If he be found in fault, let Mr. Treasurer and Mr. Receiver admit another. My friend Will. Smythe writes that I am already checked of 40s.; whereof I marvel, for I had my check till the 26 Jan. last, and remained there till 20 March. I think I am wronged, for I have been here mostly on the King's affairs. I think they do it in despite of your Lordship. They say I have great living, and do little for it. The matter of which I sent you word by Goodall and by Mr. Aylmer shall take effect without fail. London, 20 May.
	Your auditor desires an answer to his last letters. Hol., pp. 2. Add.
20 May. R. O.	932. Sir John Wallop to Lord Lisle.
	The cardinal of Lorraine has returned from the Emperor, bringing certain capitulations, which if the French king will agree to, he may have peace; but I see no great likelihood, for today the Tamboren has gone about to amass more men of war. The villeins of Savoy have assembled and taken again a town of their own, in which were 160 men-of-arms of St. Pol's band in garrison, all of whom they have taken prisoners and killed some. Those that were varlets they have sent home in their shirts because they had done so much evil in pilling the country. The Admiral's camp and Antony de Leyva's are within three miles, separated by a river, and skirmish daily. The French have the greater number of horse, which gives them the advantange, but I think they will beware of joining battle, and retire into Piedmont. In three or four days we shall know further, for the Emperor gave the cardinal but ten days to make answer, of which eight are passed. I and my wife send commendations to my lady. Lyons, 20 May. Signed. Pp. 2. Add.: Deputy of Calais. Endd.
20 May. R. O.	933. John Alen to Cromwell.
	Arrived here 13th inst., and are waiting for wind. Has received letters from Ireland, and perceives that all things are yet in a stay.
	Sends on one addressed to Cromwell. It is reported that Mr. Justice and Alen "be in Tower." Chester, 20 May. Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
20 May. R. O.	934. Jacques de Coucy [Sieur de Vervins] to the Deputy of Calais.
	Four or five days ago, some men-of-war of your country, who were in the pay of the King, were in the village of Wirevigne in the Boullonnais, and took two mares belonging to Robt. aux Enfaus Barbarier, which they took to the town of Marcq, where the said Barbarier had them arrested. I beg you to have them released, as I have been certified by several gentlemen that the said Barbarier has sustained this loss. Boulogne, 20 May. Signed. Fr., p. 1. Add.: Mons. le Debbitis de Callays, chevalier de l'ordre du Roy d'Angleterre.