BHO

Henry VIII: Miscellaneous, 1536

Pages 566-590

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 11, July-December 1536. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1888.

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Miscellaneous, 1536

1418. Royal Letters.
R. O. Blank shect, endorsed: "Letters signed with the King's hand."
1419. [The King's Debts.]
R. O. "Merchants that be contented to forbear unto a longer day."
Rowland Hill, mercer, Stephen Vaughan, the bp. of Carlisle, the master of the Savoy, Dr. Knight, Dr. Layton, Ric. Hill, customer, Rauf Alen, grocer, Robt. Dacres, the bp. of London, John Pope, brewer, (fn. 1) Hen. Polstede, Dr. Leigh, Dr. Wm. Peter, Thos. Edgar, John Malt, tailor, (fn. 1) Robt. Pakington, mercer, Ant. Bonvice, Ric. Pollard, John Freman, Hen. Hublethorn, Edw. North. Dr. Olyver, Dr. Hughes, Dr. Kern, Nic. Spakeman, haberdasher, Ric. Pikering, Roger Barker, Hen. Salvage, John ap Rice, Wm. Candisshe, Jasper Fesaunt, Oliver Leder, Robt. Mellishe, (fn. 2) Hen. Wyncote, John Whalley, John Crooke, Sir Bastian Roderyk, Raaf Alen, (fn. 2) Dr. Wolman, (fn. 2) John Blakesley, Thos. Brooke, Dr. Incent, John Undrehill, prebendary of St. Stephen's, "Doctor Alen Coke," Marten Bowes and Rauf Roulet, Dr. Bell, Ric. Calard, painter. (fn. 2)
The sums vary from 10l. to 333l. 6s. 8d.
ii. Small sums to be paid forthwith:—John Malte, tailor, Robt. Mellishe, Ric. Calard, painter, (fn. 2) Wm. Dauntesey, alderman, (fn. 2) Edmund Kempe, mercer, Wm. Castelyn, mercer, Thos. Heys, goldsmith, (fn. 2) Geo. Medley, mercer, Wm. Wilkinson, mercer, Rouland Shakerley, mercer, Sir Chr. Askewe, alderman, Sir Roger Cholmeley, (fn. 2) Wm. Forman, alderman, Pynchestre, grocer, Nicholas Gilson, grocer, (fn. 2) John Hare, mercer, Thos. Curteys, pewterer, (fn. 2) Balthasar Guersey, surgeon, Wm. Lok, mercer, Wm. Colshill, mercer, Robt. Chertsey, mercer, Thos. Trappes, goldsmith, Raaf Symondes, fishmonger, Wm. Whyte, leatherseller, Bernard Jenyns, skinner, Wm. Roche, alderman, Ric. Raynoldes, mercer, (fn. 2) Robt. Rowe, merchant tailor, Sir John Champneys, alderman, (fn. 2) —Osbourne, Dr. Hughes, (fn. 2) Wm. Laxston, Wm. Ferneley, mercer, Thos. Bertelet, (fn. 2) John Symson, John Pery, fishmonger, Ric. Bottill, tailor, (fn. 2) Thos. Gale, haberdasher, Dr. Carne, (fn. 2) Henry Annottes, fishmonger, (fn. 2) Humfrey Barons, iremonger, Ric. Warner, customer, John Sturgion, haberdasher, (fn. 2) Thos. Huntley, (fn. 2) Wm. Wilforde, scrivener, John Wise, Nic. Spakeman, haberdasher, (fn. 2) John Hone, tallow chandler, (fn. 2) Ric. Pykering, (fn. 2) Ric. Holt, (fn. 2) Roger Barker, (fn. 2) Wm. Barlowe, (fn. 2) John Underhill, prebendary of St. Stephen's, (fn. 2) Dr. Alen Cooke.
The sums vary from 100l. to 10l. Sum of these small payments 1,561l. 13s. 4d.
iii. Greater sums to be paid forthwith:—Raaf Warren, mercer, Ric. Jerves, mercer, John Scutt, (fn. 2) Marten Bowes and Raaf Rowlet, (fn. 2) John Gresham, mercer, Dame Eliz. Bauldry, Ric. Gresham, mercer, Sir John Mundy, (fn. 2) Geo. Robynson, mercer, Wm. Hollys, alderman, Thos. Rusheton, Sir Thos. Kytson, alderman, (fn. 2) Robt. Trappes, goldsmith, Wm. Brothers, Wm. Bower, sheriff, (fn. 3) John Onley, Hen. Averell, goldsmith, Sir John Alen, then mayor, (fn. 4) Lady Pargettour, (fn. 2) Dr. Bertelett, Robt. Chidley, Ric. Hareyong, Robt. Pagett, sheriff, (fn. 3) Wm. Gressham, mercer, John Bell, doctor-at-law, (fn. 2) Robt. Palmer, mercer, (fn. 2) Mighell Dormer, alderman, (fn. 2) Wm. Denham, alderman, John Wilforde and his brethren, Robt. Lorde.
The sums vary from 1,000l. to 40l.—Total, 5,440l.
Sum total, 11,170l. 13s. 4d.
Pp. 7. Endd.
1420. On the Royal Authority.
R. O. A treatise urging strongly the duty of obedience and gratitude to the King, who has many times saved the nation from external enemies, such as the Scots and French, and delivered them from the claws of the bishop of Rome, &c.
Begins: "The prince of orators, Marcus Tullius Cicero, whose facundious eloquence.
Ends: "for them that love him."
Pp. 35. Endd.
1421. Theology.
R. O. A sermon made upon this text Qui timetis Dominum, laudate Eum Defending Free Will.—That Faith justifieth not.—Purgatory.—Pilgrimages. —Worshipping Saints.—Worshipping Images.
Beginning: These be the words of the holy prophet David in the 21st Psalm, which this day was read in the Church at the High Mass for the tract; in the which Psalm David, endued with the spirit of prophecy, first described in the person of our Saviour Christ manifestly the marvellous crudelity and tyranny of the cursed Jews."
Ending: "And for our lauds or praise He will surely most abundantly reward us; for He will bring us unto Heaven where we shall clearly see and have in our possession his own blessed Godhead himself; unto whom we shall evermore in joy with Angels give lauds. To the which He bring us all. Amen."
Sit Omnip. Deo laus, &c.
Pp. 47.
R. O. 2. Arguments to prove that a mere layman, especially a married man, cannot act as coadjutor to a Bishop who is incapacitated by disease or old age.
Lat., pp. 3.
R. O. 3. Sermon on the Epistle for the First Sunday in Lent:—Adhortor vos, &c., showing the duty of all men who receive the grace of Christ to turn it to good use, by forsaking sin and exercising themselves in virtuous labors:— That the three virtues of a Christian are, watching in prayer, fasting, and charity. Reproves rulers, vicars, and others for being blinded with worldly wisdom and carnal affection; who however are to be endured patiently.
Pp. 7.
R. O. 4. Another copy of § 3 in the same hand.
1422. Theology.
R. O. "The Tropes and Figures of Scripture, a matter desired of so much necessity, that without it cannot easily be avoided the danger of heresy. Written by Thomas Swynnerton, otherwise Robertes."
The dedicatory letter is addressed to Cromwell as keeper of the Privy Seal and the King's vicegerent for his ecclesiastical jurisdiction. The writer states that those who oppose God's doctrine at one time assert that "the letter killeth," and at other times insist on the literal sense of Scripture. His object is to show when the literal sense of Scripture ought to be embraced and when not.
Towards the end of the dedication he writes : "This labour I graunte had been feate for a man of more rype lerninge than I, as for good Master Moryson." The words in italics are blotted out.
In the body of the treatise Swynnerton refers to the writings of Melanchthon, Eccius, Cochlœus, Sir Thos. More, Dr. Barnes, and Tyndale's "Mammon" and "Obedience."
The execution of the Carthusians is also alluded to. At p. 91 is the following passage : "David saith that God mocketh and skorneth the ungodly. Whereby he meaneth no more but that God putteth the ungodly beside their wicked purposes and ungracious entendementes, when they beleve themselfes most strongest to bring them teffect. As experience taught us but of late, by the North Flete."
Vellum folio, pp. 103.
1423. A Hebrew Scholar.
Royal MS. 7 C. xvi. 174. B. M. Anonymous "Epistle" in praise of Henry VIII., commencing, "Where I, as one being in an high turret, look round about, viewing with greatest diligence the noble and famous men of old time, such as are most highly commended either of orators, historiographers, or poets, I find none, most mighty Prince, that may so aptly be compared to your most excellent Majesty as Hercules."
Compares the lion of Nemea to "that bloody lion of Rome," &c. Presents to the King a taste of his learning in the Hebrew tongue, the apostles James and Jude.
Pp. 16.
1424. Accusations of Heresy.
R. O. "Articles untruly surmised against the persons hereafter named, which they and every of them deny."
Thos. Burchett.—That penance is nothing; that a priest cannot absolve sin; that every man is a priest; that holy bread and holy water are of none effect; and that there are only three sacraments.
Robt. Wymond.—That any man may swear by the mass, for it is not of God's making; that candles should not be offered to the images in the church, which are idols and mammets; that there is no purgatory, "for purgatorye ys pissed owte;" that he does not care for the suffrages of the Church after his death; that his body does not need burial in a church or churchyard; and that fasting is not ordained of God.
John Younge.—"That the mass was of a juggler's making, and a juggling cast it was."
Robt. Woode.—That every man is a priest; that images are idols; and that the divine service sung in the church is of no more effect than the bleating of a cow to her calf and the calf again to the cow.
John Alger.—"Yff our Lady were here in erth, I wold no more fere to meddyll with her then with a comon hore." (fn. 5)
John White.—That our Lady was a sinner.
James Dye, Thos. Hog, alias White.—The sacrament of the altar is but a figure, and not the very body of God, &c.
Ric. Jerves, Alex. Welles, and Adam Lyster.—That the blood of Christ is sufficient for salvation without the sacrament of unction.
Thos. Fougeler.—That there is no purgatory; that he would rather have a dog to sing for him than a priest; that confession to a priest is not necessary, &c.
Most of the above, with John Raynold, Ric. Ruck, Wm. Mede, Thos. Byspyn, Robt. Coke, Alex. Wellys, Henry Soggs, Robt. Benett, of Rye, and Nic. White, of Winchelsea, are indicted for holding articles after their new learning preached by the following persons:
John Swynerton, priest.—Who preached that our Lady was not of such honor as the people paid her, and against pilgrimages, oblation to saints, prayers for the dead, and purgatory.
Thos. Garrad, chaplain to the bishop of Worcester.—Against purgatory, suffrages for departed souls, offerings to saints and pilgrimages.
Francis Eliot, Friar Augustine.—That penance was of none effect; that confession was but a counsel and no commandment; that there were but two places—heaven and hell; against fasting and the Ember days, saying that he himself made two meals the Ember Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday in Pentecost week; and the Ember fast was made for the love of one woman "being lemon to the bisshop of Rome."
Thos. Lancy, (fn. 6) chaplain to the bishop of Canterbury.—Denied purgatory, "saying that people have a communicacion and beleve that sowllys have dyvers paynes in purgatory as of fire and other," and preached against religious persons.
A paper roll. Endd.
1425. St. Michael's, Wood Street.
R. O. A list of 22 persons dwelling in St. Michael's parish in Wood Street that heard Sir Thos. Gennys, (fn. 7) curate, there speak contemptuously of the King's injunctions. John Leye, John Banks, Thos. Reynton, and 19 others.
P. 2.
1426. The Tenants of Lewisham, Greenwich, West Greenwich, and Lee to Henry VIII.
R. O. Most of the land in the said parishes has come into the King's hand by exchange between him, the duke of Suffolk, the marquis of Dorset, and the prior of the charter house at Sheen. These owners have always contributed to the payment of fifteenths and tenths, and the petitioners beg to be discharged of the part paid by them, 1s. in Lewisham, 53s. 4d. Greenwich, 40s. Deptford or West Greenwich 20s., and Lee 20s.
P. 1. Endd.
1427. Bishop of St. David's to [Cromwell].
R. O. "Humbly I beseech your good Lordship" to be a mean to the King (as I owe his Grace 228l. 10s. for first fruits of my bishopric, 65l. 6s. 8d. for certain household implements, 104l. which I received from Sir Brian Tuke above my allowance for diets in Scotland, where I was only allowed for 6 months 14 days, but stayed 10 months, journeying to and fro), that I may discharge it in three years by yearly payments. I trust meanwhile to maintain a sufficient family, with men learned in divinity and law, for so large a diocese, as becomes the degree to which the King has advanced me.
As a lord of the Marches he has jurisdiction over certain lordships in Wales, and desires some spiritual revenues of suppressed pl[aces] to assist in setting forth the gospel there.
The cathedral church and see of St David's is in the most barren angle of the diocese. If the King would transplant it to Caermarthen, the principal city of S. Wales, the bishop would there be in the heart of his diocese, and the canons might exercise their hospitality and learning more profitably than in ruinous and desolate St. David's. The inveterate superstition of Wales, "with horrible blasphemy of God and His verity," has been supported in St. David's, which is in Wales what Bethel and Dan were in Israel.
The provision for shire ground in S. Wales taking effect, if the shire town, as hitherto, is Pembroke, many shall suffer inconvenience; for, besides its remote situation, all who repair thither from Dewes land, Lawhadden, Kemnys, Rowse, and Dungleddy must ferry over Milford Haven, which is sometimes too stormy to be crossed. Whereas if it be appointed at Haverford West in the midst of the shire, men may at all seasons repair thither.
Concerning first fruits of benefices; by reason of appropriations few beneficed persons in St. David's are incumbent on their cures, except vicars of vicarages worth 8l. or 9l. a year. Begs that the King will allow such to give bonds, on sufficient sureties, within the diocese, and not travel to London, where they can get no sureties except at great cost.
Hol., pp. 4. Endd. by the writer: "Certain petitions of the bishop of S. Davids."
1428. St. David's Diocese.
R. O. "Instructions for the bishop of Saint David's suits.
"First, whereas in the whole diocese is not one grammar school, by reason whereof the clergy is unlearned and the people ignorant, and the English tongue nothing preferred after the Act of Parliament. (fn. 8) And for as much also as the cathedral church standeth in the uttermost part of the diocese, by reason whereof the bishop nor residentiaries there, though they would, can little profit for th'instruction, reformation, oversight, keeping of hospitality, or any other commodity unto the diocese. The bishop's suit is to have the friars of Kermerddyn for the cathedral church, for in the same town the chaunter (fn. 9) hath appointed his free school. And the said bishop will find a continual lecture of divinity, seeing it is situate in the best town and in the middle of the diocese, where also the King's justice is kept, by occasion whereof the gentlemen and commons of the country most resort there.
"And where as the college of Abergwilly standeth a mile from any town and so inprofitable to the diocese, the bishop's suit is that the same college may be translated unto the Black Friars of Brecknok. And also whereas now is maintained certain singing men there which have fifty pounds by year; that the same money may in this wise be bestowed, thirty pounds for the schoolmaster and th'usshers, and twenty pounds to one which shall be a preacher and read a daily lecture of divinity there, whose living, for because he would have a learned man, the said bishop will increase to forty pounds by year; and yet notwithstanding provide for the singing men that now be there as long as they live. And furthermore the said bishop will provide honest livings for the friars of both places as many of them as be of honest conversation and learned.
"For the which places also the bishop will give unto the King's Grace his title that he hath unto the lands of Rhese late attainted, which lands Rhese held in copy of the bishop, and are worth xj or xij li. by year."
Pp. 2. Endd.
1429. Worcester Cathedral Priory.
R. O. Articles to be proved against the prior and convent of Worcester.
1. That they suppressed the hospital of Doverhill in Dartewich, Worc., without licence of the King, and expelled the poor people, to their utter destruction; 2, and caused the hospital to be pulled down and the building materials sold to their own use. 3. They trouble Sir Ric. Cornewall, clerk of the said hospital, and hold the lands of the same by intrusion. 4. They have suppressed the priory of Bromysgrove without the King's licence, and have sold the materials, withholding the lands, which are worth 100 mks. a year, and were granted to the Crown by the last Act of Parliament at Westminster. 5. They caused Ric. Dedych the younger, and 28 persons with him, to mow the King's meadow belonging to the said hospital called Preastmeadow in Forde, in the parish of Doderhyll, on St. Anne's night last, 28 Hen. VIII., and put Ric. Cornewall, master of the hospital, in jeopardy of his life.
Pp. 2. Endd.
1430. Suppressed Monasteries.
R. O. 1. Survey of the demesnes of Erdebery, in com. Warw.; divided into meadow, pasture, and arable land, and site of the monastery. The tenth, calculated upon the three former, amounts to 25s. 4¾d.
Pp. 3. Add. to Lord Crumwell of Wimbledon and Lord Privy Seal.
R. O. 2. Fragment of a commission to examine as to certain alleged fraudulent leases made by the late abbot of Lantarnam (fn. 10) to the prejudice of the demise granted by the King to John Parker, "oon of the esquier de quer. . . . . . . . ." and to expel the lessees.
P. 1. Headed: "By the King."
R. O. 3. Valuation of parcel of the lands that belonged to the monastery of Quarre, as appears by the certificate thereof now in custody of Ric. Pollard.
Item. A farm called Combley in Atherton parish within the said Isle (Wight), continually kept in the abbot's hands, worth by year 24l. Signed per me Ricm. Pollard.
P. 1.
1431. Swords.
R. O. "The swords for the King lacking."
A sword that my lord Bewchamp gave the King, a bastard sword, a chekered sword, an arming sword, a blue sword, a tuck.
A skeyne with parcel-gilt hilt, five skeynes black varnished. A short knife, engraven and gilt. Five woodknives, one with a gilt copper pommel, engraven with antique imagery, and another with a pommel like a leopard's head.
P. 17. Endd. as above.
1432. Mortlake.
R. O. Accounts of "batlage" of building materials from Hampton Court to Mortlake (doubtless for Cromwell's buildings at the latter place) from August to December, with the wages of various carpenters and bricklayers, in 28 Hen. VIII.
Pp. 12.
1433. The King's Customs.
R. O. Ordinances for the advancement of the King's customs and subsidies wherein His Grace has sustained no little loss since his coronation by negligence of his officers and crafty inventions of merchants.
Pp. 17. Headed: Jh'us 1536.
1434. The Army in Ireland.
R. O. Petition of Thomas Cloterbock, Maurice Vauhan, and John Carpentar, of Gloucester, to Cromwell, for a passport into Ireland to Waterford or Washeford or any other place where the King's army lies, where they may sell their malt and beans and seek for the tackle of a balinger of 30 tons belonging to them, which they have lost, and which was laden with herring at Whytlaws (Wicklow ?) Bay on the coast of Ireland.
P. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
1435. Sadolet to John Cardinal of Lorraine.
Sadoleti Epp. Famil. ii. Ep. 242. In commendation of Florentius Volusenus, the Scotchman, who having accompanied Cardinal Du Bellay on his way to Rome as far as Avignon, was there detained by ill health and poverty. He afterwards came to Sadolet, who regrets that he has not been able to help him as much as he could wish. He is still with him at Carpentras, devoting himself to philosophy, and he speaks of Lorraine as his patron. 1536.
Lat. Add.: Jo Lotharingio Cardinali, Paris.
1436. [Francis Philip ?] to Cromwell.
R. O. Memoranda of expenses incurred for the King and the late [queen Katharine].
First, her Grace owed me for two years before she died, as Mr. Griffith can tell, 48l.; also 12l. 0s. 4d., as Mr. Griffith and Anthony Carleton can tell. The King and her Grace sent me to Arragon to the Emperor for eight minstrels, and they, I, and one Lionel, groom of the chamber, were robbed near Narboney in France by 80 robbers under a captain named M. Depontez; I lost 186l. 15s., and the minstrels 52l., which I repaid them before they came to Windsor. The King and her Grace sent me to the Emperor for a "certain writing," and in France my horse fell and my arm was broken, and I had to send on the letters by Curson, groom of the chamber: this journey and going to Maunsell, and returning to Court cost me 150l. I make the costs of the eight minstrels, &c. over 120l. Total, 568l. 15s. 4d., of which, as Mr. Griffith can tell, I have received but 40l.
P. 1. Add. at head: Lord Cromwell, lord Privy Seal.
R. O. 2. "A remembrance" (apparently by another servant of Katharine of Arragon) "of that the King's noble Grace doth owe me for the good grace of my mistress, whose soul Jesus pardon."
Two years' wages at 12d. a day unpaid, as appears by Mr. Griffyns and Antony Rogues' books. Livery for himself and wife for three years, at 9l. 2s. 8d., as appears by the books of Mr. Justes. His mistress ordered one year's additional wages, 18l. 6s. 8d., and liveries, 9l. 6s. 8d. Things made for "your gracious daughter," (fn. 11) 4l. Riding to Windsor, being there six months, and likewise to Woodstock, "and being there months," and going other voyages at his mistress's command. Has been in England serving her 26 years. Total, 123l. 10s. 6d.
Received of my lord Privy Seal, in part payment, 30l.
P. 1.
1437. The late Prior of Folkestone.
R. O. A pitiful petition to "your honorable Lordship" (Cromwell ?) to remember your poor beadman, Thomas Barret, late prior of Folston, who, at your request and on the promises made me by your Lordship, resigned all title in the priory, (fn. 12) and had nothing out of it but a bed lacking both blankets and pillows. Is destitute and friendless. Begs not to be cast away.
P. 1. Endd.: The prior of Folston's supplication.
1438. Gisburne Priory.
R. O. "Sums received by James Cokerell, late prior of Gysburne, (fn. 13) and yet remaining in his hands, whereof he never made nor (sic) account to our monasterie."
Received out of the treasury of the monastery, from prior Morebye, one of his predecessors, from the prior of Mountgrace, for a chapel alienated "from our hous for ever," plate sold, in keeping for one of "my" brethren, Wm. Wilson, gressomes and fines, and horses and cattle taken with him at his departure. Total, 1,355l. 6s. 8d.
Also plate (described) at his lodging in our house and at our manor of Ugthorpe.
P. 1. Endd.
1439. The Black Friars, Guildford.
R. O. Petition of the prior and convent of Friars Preachers of Guildford, now of queen Jane's foundation, since the 3rd, and — (fn. 14) years of queen Eleanor, spouse of Henry III., the first foundress.
The King has been pleased to build a place of honor within the precincts of their house, which place is now decaying. Have no property, but live on alms, which have much fallen off of late, so that they often want even food, and are unable to serve the King "in setting out, trimming and fashioning ground and gardens about your said place." Beg a grant of some "benefice prebend, free chapel, corrody, commandry, or order and governy over any house of alms and prayers."
Pp. 2.
1440. Horses.
R. O. Draft of a portion of the regulations for a Royal "Race or Studderye" for horses. The clauses are numbered x. to xiv., which has been altered to 15 to 18.
Two large sheets.
1441. —to Cromwell.
R. O. Complaining of losses sustained from "[Frenc]he pirates." Has a wife and nine children, and cannot support them.
Very mutilated fragment of a petition, p. 1. Add.: Thomas lord Cromwell, Chief Secretary and Lord Privy Seal.
1442. Thos. Alen to Cromwell.
R. O. Asks his help for the discharge of the debt of his deceased brother, the archbishop of Dublin, of which he has written before. The King's privy seal has been served upon him for the payment of the said debt. Is lame from a fall and can neither ride nor go. Begs Cromwell to find some remedy. Asks credence for Mr. Lentall and his nephew Geo. Alen.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1443. Lord Audeley.
R. O. Debts to the King for Laurence Bonvix and for the restitution. For Sir John Mundy as that may be brought to pass. All other particular debts, with the incumbrances of sundry parcels of lands, to the sum of 2,500l. The whole lands in possession, with what is recovered to the King and what is encumbered to Sir John Mundy, amount to about 1,000 mks. a year, and my lady's jointure to 200 mks. If 300 mks. of this is sold, it will make about 6,000 marks, for the payment of the above debts, and the rest for the King and Sir John Mundi, besides the manor of Wade, to be to the King after my lord's decease. There will thus remain 700 mks., beside 200 mks. of my lady's jointure; of which may be reserved 500 mks. rent for the use of my lord and out of his custody, wherewith may be purchased in 12 years as much land as the 300 mks. before sold shall amount to. The 200 mks. rest, with the 200 mks. of my lady's jointure, and the mean profits of all the lands before rehearsed, with all the reversions in the hands of my lord Chamberlain, being 40l., to be for the finding of my lord.
Pp. 2. Endd.
1444. John Lord Audeley to Cromwell.
R. O. I beg you will for one hour hear a little of my affairs, for, as Job says, omnia mala evenerunt mihi pariter. I beg I may be tried as the finer tries metals, and I trust it shall be found I have as hearty a mind to do the King service as any one.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Privy Seal. Endd.
1445. Agnes Awstyd to Cromwell and Suffolk.
R. O. Complaining that her husband Andrew Awstyd having been hired by their neighbour Burgius' wife last Pentecost went with her to London to her husband there and brought her home again. After which Burgius was arraigned and suffered death at the last sessions, and petitioner's husband was attached upon suspicion by Mr. Hales, chief justice in Kent, and committed to Canterbury Castle. Desires letters to Mr. Baron Hales, for his release.
Large paper, p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal and my lord of Suffolk.
1446. Robert Bishop of St. Asaph to Cromwell.
R. O. The name of the priest, whom I mentioned to your Lordship, whom I expelled from my diocese for not rasing the bishop of Rome's name and for other crimes, is Sir David ap John Billyngton. Signed.
P. 1. Add: Privy Seal. Endd.
1447. Thomas Barnabe to [Cromwell].
R. O. "A memorial concerning Sir John Aleyn and Thomas Barnabe."
About six years ago, at the beginning of my suit in France, Sir John Aleyn offered to help me with the loan of 100l., provided I would bring him the lease of my house in security. This I did within a fortnight, but he changed his tone, said he must have some profit, and that I should have 80l. on my lease, I being bound in statute for casualty of death to repay 100l. To this I agreed. To cloak the usury he said he would deliver the 80l. to Dymmok, the broker, to deliver to me, making a bill as if I had received it in wine. After the death of my wife Aleyn sent me Robert Forman, the broker, to know if I would sell the lease outright, which I refused to do, even if he would give me 500 marks. Aleyn then sent for me and said he had my lease without any security except a statute, and said he had caused Harwood (Whorwood), the King's solicitor, to draw a pair of indentures for me to seal. Your Lordship soon after sent me over [sea] about the King's affairs, at which time he agreed to let my servant, Robert Sparvill, take my house of him at a rent of 10s. a week for the tennis play, and 16s. 8d. clear gain for every tun of wine sold in the house. On this convention Mr. Aleyn executed the statute and allowed the said Robert secretly to enter, who forthwith came to my daughter, then keeping the bar, as in taverns is accustomed, and warned her that she, her brothers, and sisters, should immediately avoid. Upon this my prentice Robyn resorted to your Lordship and obtained your letters to Mr. Aleyn, which appear to have very little effect, for he still usurps and handles me cruelly.
Pp. 2.
1448. R. B[arnes] to Cromwell.
R. O. Master Gostwyke detains from me the money your Lordship allowed me for expenses in the King's service. I beg you will speak to him as you know I have no manner of living without it.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
1449. Ric. Beerley, Monk of Pershore, to [Cromwell].
Cleop. E. IV., 161. B. M. Wright's Suppression of the Monasteries, 132. "Most reverent lord in God, second person in this realm of England." It is grudging in his conscience that the religion they observe and keep is no rule of St. Benet nor commandment of God, nor any saint, but light and foolish ceremonies, made some in old time and some in our time by light and indiscreet fathers, which have done their duties and fulfilled their own ceremonies and let the precepts of God go. Has done this for six years, and it grieves his conscience that he has been a dissembler so long. Supposes this religion is all vain glory and nothing worthy to be accepted before God or man. Has a secret thing on his conscience, which moves him to go out of the religion were it ever so perfect, which no man may know but his ghostly father, who shall know of it hereafter and many other foul vices done amongst religious men. Begs him to help him out of this vain religion and make him his "servant handemayd and beydman." Will tell him how the King's commandment is kept in putting forth from books the bishop of Rome's usurped power. Monks drink a bowl after collation till 10 or 12 of the clock, and come to matins as drunk as mice, and some at cards and some at dice and at tables. Some come to matins at the beginning, some in the midst, and some when it is almost done, and they would not come at all but for the bodily punishment. Knows several books when the bishop of Rome's name has not been put out. The commissary told him to write thus by his oath he took in the chapter house.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: To my noble and gracious Lord visitor in the King's Court. Endd.
1450. Sir John Bownde, Vicar of [Cannington], (fn. 15) to Mr. Arondell.
R. O. Has received of Mr. Rogers' servant money for the last quarter of his vicarage, and 6s. 8d. for four weeks' board, but he could not pay for board from Michaelmas to Christmas. It was openly confessed by the late prioress (fn. 16) and her sisters, now at the monastery of Shaftesbury, that by the council of evil-disposed persons, and for malice to his predecessor, Mr. Adams, late vicar of Canyngton, they burnt a composition between the convent and Adams, that he should enjoy all tithings, oblations, and offerings at Canyngton church, except the corn and the offering wax on Candlemas Day, for which the convent would pay the value in corn. The prioress has often sent to desire his forgiveness. Asks him to examine the truth of the matter, and certify the Council.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
1451. William Browne, of London, Mercer, to Cromwell.
R. O. Requests Cromwell's intercession for a grant of the farm or marsh called Barnemershe, in Essex, which he bought over four years ago of Sir Fras. Bryan, who had it by the King's gift out of Buckingham's lands. The writer gave Bryan 200 marks for it, and has laid out 40l. in repairs of the main walls, and it would be a great hindrance to him to have it only for the life of Sir Francis. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.: Lord Cromwell, lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1452. John Burton, of St.-Giles'-in-the-Fields, Brewer.
R. O. Petition to "lord Cromwell, high Secretary to the King," setting forth that Lacy, late prior (fn. 17) of Merton Abbey, ejected his wife from a farm called Salynges, which he rented from the Abbey from Shrovetide 19 Hen. VIII., during his absence in the North. Begs Cromwell will obtain restitution for him, as he has petitioned the present prior to no effect.
P. 1. Endd. Attached to the above is a slip of paper bearing the following names: Sir Mathew Browne, knt.; Mr. Stydall, of Hamhall; Mr. Darnester, of Chobham; Mr. Carleton, of Walton.
1453. Chester.
R. O. Petition of the city of Chester to the bishop of Chester, president of the council in the Marches of Wales and the other commissioners thereof, showing that they have been impowered by grants of the King's progenitors to levy customs, murage, gauging of wines, &c. for the maintenance of the walls and pavements of the city, but that a new custom has been imposed upon every dicker of leather exported from the city by a late Act of Parliament; (fn. 18) that the King has lately granted to John Holland the office of gauger within the said city, to receive tonnage on vessels, and that the passage toward the city is dangerously impeded by bars of sand, so that the merchants within this half year have lost three ships coming into the said city laden with wine and wood to the value of 4,000l. This will create a loss to the King in his prize of wines and customs of wine in Ireland, and tend to the ruin of the city. Request the Bishop's mediation that the operation of the statute be suspended till next parliament.
P. 1. Large paper. Mutilated. Endd.
1454. John, (fn. 19) abbot of Chester, to Cromwell.
R. O. I am deceived and am right sorry. I send by Sir Richard Hoghe your duty, and shall be better advised another time.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
1455. Edmund Clerc to Wriothesley.
R. O. Has received his letters of the 23rd, and been with the abbots of Tichfield and Beaulieu. My lord of Tichfield, on receiving your letters, was sorry he had not a horse fit for you, but has heard of one, which he will try to get. My lord of Beaulieu said he had nothing but should be at your commandment, and sent his men to take up for you his own riding horse, which you will receive herewith. His only fault is that he is too little for you, though the biggest in all his park. I reminded my lord of the patent for you, and he says he only waits to have your counsel in the finishing of it. Your buildings here will be finished within this se'nnight. My young master, your son, your daughter, and all your household are in good health. At your house, Monday morning.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.
1456.Edmund Clerke to Wriothesley.
R. O. Has received his letters by the carrier of Odiam and those by John Horseman, and will accomplish them before his mistress's return. It would please W. to hear in what forwardness his affairs here be. His closet will be set up by Saturday night, and the "hilliers and sealours" may set upon it next week. His garden is in good forwardness, except the brick work for want of stuff; but expects two loads of bricks on Monday. From your own house, Friday morning.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: At the Court. Endd.
1457. The Master and Wardens of the Cordwainers of London to Cromwell.
R. O. Complying with his request in favor of Thos. Upton to be clerk of their company, which they wish for Cromwell's sake were worth 40l. a year to him.
P. 1. Add. at the head as "Lord Privy Seal." Endd.
1458. Peter Courtenay to Cromwell.
R. O. Requests letters to the abbot and convent of Hartland for the grant of an annuity of 6l., which they promised to give him under their convent seal in consideration of the favor shown by his father to the present abbot, by which he came to his promotion.
Hol. p. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
1459. Wm. Cutler to [Cromwell].
R. O. Since harvest I have written a book for the instruction of ignorant people, which having shown to my lady of Oxford, she desired me to bring it to your lordship. I have drawn out the effect of it as hereafter appears, and after waiting a fortnight to have presented it to your lordship, I have now left it with Dr. Bellose.
Hol., p. 1. Endd.
R. O. 2. Summary of the contents of the book he has written against the bishop of Rome for the instruction of unlearned persons. In the course of it he proves that Peter could not have been at Rome 25 years as alleged by St. Jerome, that the apostles were forbidden to have possessions, &c.
Hol., pp. 2.
1460. Cuthbert Bishop of Durham to Cromwell. (fn. 20)
R. O. I enclose such places of St. Hierom and others as I showed your Lordship of yesternight; also one of the injunctions with the word you spoke of to be added in two places in avoiding the malignity of those who hate this realm without cause.
"I send the same words added in their place for the more readiness of the printer."
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd. At the foot of the page are the words "Turn over" but nothing is written on the other side.
1461. William Hawkyns, of Plymouth, to [Cromwell].
R. O. I durst never sue to your Lordship for any help till I had first put my ship and goods in adventure to search for the commodities of unknown countries and seen the return thereof in safety, as has "metely well happened unto me, (fn. 21) albeit by four parts not so well as I suppose it should if one of my pilots had not miscarried by the way." I beg to have of the King four pieces of brass ordnance and one last of powder on good sureties, and also on security of 100l. a loan of 2,000l. for seven years towards equipping three or four ships; and I doubt not to do such feats of merchandise as shall be of great advantage to the King's Custom.
Hol., p. 1. Endd.
1462. Sir Antony Hungerford to Cromwell.
R. O. I send you a load of fine salt, carriage paid. Whether Mr. Stuard, your servant, did show you or not, I sent you another last Bartholomew tide. Praying you to continue your favor if I have any business for me or my friend. Signed.
P. 1. Add: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1463. John Hyttes to Cromwell.
R. O. Complaint of John Hyttes of the parish of St. Margaret's, Southwark, that five years ago he was imprisoned in the King's Bench, and after lying there a year was tried and acquitted on St. Valentine's Day, but remained in prison "for his fees" till Lammas Day. Then after four years the keepers of the prison saying he owed them 4l. imprisoned him again for 13 weeks, but released him on his bond to pay 40s. by instalments. Now of late they set the officers of the Bank to take him, but he escaped by leaping into the Thames.
Large paper, p. 1. Add. at head: Lord Cromwell Privy Seal.
1464. Robert Ingulson to Cromwell.
R. O. Petition of Robard Ingulson of London, haberdasher, to be one of Cromwell's servants with livery and wages.
P. 1. Add.: Privy Seal and Secretary,
1465. Philip Keyns to Cromwell.
R. O. Has had great losses and harms since he spoke with Cromwell and his Lordship sent down a privy seal to the parties that had vexed him; but neither that nor Cromwell's letters, were regarded. Can show "the deed or copy of their own hand writing and also their seals." The gentleman that gave him the land caused the sheriff's servants to put them in possession, and would deny their own writing. They so threaten him that he dare not go home.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
1466. Bailiffs and town of Kingston-upon-Thames to Cromwell.
R. O. Petition setting forth that they have the levying of all royalties, &c. in the half hundreds of Kingston and Elmeney Bridge. A year ago their sub-bailiff of Elmeney Bridge withheld payment of those rents in his half hundred, but was compelled by a distress. This year he again refuses payment, and they are forbidden to take a distress. Beg Cromwell to move the King to make them an allowance in the Exchequer for the rents of Elmeney Bridge as King Henry VII. made them allowance for Richmond, Hampe, and Keo.
Large paper, p. 1. Very mutilated and worm eaten. Add.: Privy Seal and Secretary.
1467. Maud Knevet to Cromwell.
R. O. Petition setting forth that she was the wife of John Dennis, who died 5 July 1526 in the parish of St. Gabriel, Fenchurch Street. Soon aftewards she was secretly married by Master Knevet, (fn. 22) a gentleman of the King's Privy Chamber, but as he refused for some time to acknowledge her she married one Smythe, belonging to my lord of St. John's.
Hearing of this, Master Knevet then interfered, summoned her before my lord Cardinal, and procured her divorce from Smythe. He also told the whole story to Mr. Philip Dennis, who explained the circumstances to Smythe, and caused him to proceed no further. Then Dr. Hughes sent Knevet a licence from the Cardinal to marry her, and they were married in the parish of East Ham, and so continued for eight years and more, till Knevet cited her in the Arches, saying she was not his lawful wife. Yet the King at Cromwell's request made her joint patentee with him in the manor of Aldersbroke (fn. 23) on his confession that she was his lawful wife.
Desires that Knevet be compelled, at least, to secure her an honourable living.
Pp. 2. Add. at head: Sir Thomas Cromwell, knight, and lord Privy Seal.
1468. Lord Lawarr.
R. O. Petition of Sir Thomas West, lord Laware, and Elizabeth his wife, concerning the priory of Boxgrave. 1. They desire to have the church unspoiled as their parish church. 2. And to buy the ornaments. 3. That the bells remain there. 4. That the founder's lodging may stand with all houses of office. 5. To have the demesnes to farm, &c. Also to have the parsonages of Boxgrave, Walberton, Mondeham, West Hamptnet, with the tithes, &c., at certain stated rents, in all 78l. 0s. 11½d.
Pp. 2. Endd.
1469. [Layton] to [Cromwell].
R. O. "It may please your Lordship to understand that I have owing me ix. score pounds in the North of my farmers there." Lord Lumney (sic) and Sir William Bowmer, jun., owe part, and refuse to pay, so I have discharged them. I am thus destitute of money, and yet must account to your Lordship for the visitation of Norfolk and Ely diocese with Buckingham archdeaconry. If your Lordship will command Robert Lorde to repay me the 200l. I lent the King, I shall be able to pay you, but at present I have not 5l. sterling ad totam familiam alendam.
Hol., p. 1.
1470. Richard Manchester (fn. 24) to Cromwell.
R. O. On the false accusement of William More, I have remained in prison 10 weeks. I have sundry times "invocated" the high power of God and sworn by His holy name, whereby I have displeased Him. I never spake anything that is in Moor's accusement or to the dishonor of the King's majesty. Moore has a false subtle wit like the false Synon who induced the Trojans to bring in the Grecian horse. He has mingled truth and falsehood to bring him in credit; truth as concerneth Pole's book, by the affirmation of Mr. Wryseley, though it is false that he had it from me. I am like Cassandra who had the spirit of prophesy but, through Diana, no man believed her. So this man has persuaded Mr. Wriothesley to believe every word he says. Good my lord, I beseech you have compassion on my innocence, long imprisonment, sickness, weakness and penury.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.: George Heron.
1471. William More's wife to Cromwell.
R. O. Begs pity for her husband William More. Even in health he is a weak man and now he is wasted. If he perish then the children are undone.
"Sir, and it like your Lordship," I have fain to sell and gage everything to succour him and am now nigh my time to lie down.
"And it like your Lordship this mourning song is of my making."
P. 1. Endd.: Suit for her husband's delivery.
1472. George Heron to Cromwell.
R. O. Implores mercy. Was never so great a fool, or rather devil, as to speak or think what is imputed to him against the King. Is not afraid of man or the attempts of the devil. Is sorry to think such evil even of his accuser who hungers for his death. Has vehement suspicions of some persons who have prompted this man to accuse him, although he knows his malice by experience. One reason for it is that he discharged him from his house for idle and riotous living; soon after which he took to beating his wife while going with her in the fields towards Stepney, with a staff that he carried in his neck and reviled an honest man who came to the rescue, whom he accused of robbing him and caused to be apprehended, but the charge broke down upon examination. And now that he is taken for stealing horses he vents his malice against the writer, who has been in close prison, guiltless, for 19 weeks.
Hol., pp. 3. Add. at the head: Privy Seal. Endd.
1473. Lady Margaret's (fn. 25) Servants to Cromwell.
R. O. Petition for their wages.
Small paper, p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
R. O. 1474. Emm, wife of Thomas Martin, merchant of London, to Cromwell.
Her husband is yet in Danske for the recovery of a great sum for which he has sued the law these 15 years. His matter has been adjudged to him in four courts, and has been twice before the king of Poland, who has now committed it to six noblemen of divers courts, viz., the bishop of Colmesse and Sir George van Boffyn, the king of Powle's councillors, Herr George Shevek, lieutenant and high burgomaster at Danske, Herr Peter Bemen, burgomaster, Herr George Meller and Herr Hans Guldbery, aldermen. Cromwell formerly obtained the King's letters, which helped her husband somewhat (fn. 26); she now desires the King's more earnest letters for the expedition of the case; and she and five children will be bound to pray for Cromwell.
P. 1. Add. at head: lord of the Privy Seal.
1475. Sir John Melton to Cromwell.
R. O. Petition that he will declare to the King Melton's title to the castle and honour of Cockermouth, "sometime the lord Lucy's inheritance," as shown in a bill annexed. Has served the King and his father 40 years. Was sworn to the King, then duke of York, at the marriage of prince Arthur, so is one of the oldest servants the King has still living. Has been at 10 journeys in war, three of them "foughten fields," in one of which he was wounded, and with this and the cost of jousts, triumphs, &c., he has had to sell part of his land.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal and chief secretary.
1476. John Mountagu to Cromwell.
R. O. A complaint against one Ralph Sherman, whom he took to board in his house and who, after secretly contracting himself to one Joan Abbott, apprentice to petitioner, went with her about 19 February last into his chamber, broke open a box belonging to William Wood, gent., and took out an obligation in which Sherman is bound to Wood for 45l., &c. Joan Eleen daughter to petitioner, discovered them in the act, and Sherman offered her a crown to keep the matter secret. Begs Cromwell to command Sherman to re-deliver the obligation and to pay the money due for his board.
Pp. 2. Add.: Privy Seal and Secretary.
1477. Edmund Moor to Cromwell.
R. O. Petition, showing that at great risk and charge he had brought to the King the letters which the king of Scotland sent to the bishop of Rome and the duke of Albany in France. (fn. 27) Has served the King four years without payment; and by reason of the charges of children and loss of his prisoner, whom the King delivered to the Scotch ambassadors, is impoverished. Begs aid to have a certain bill signed; it is worth 7l. 10s. a year, as appears by a lease made by the convent of Telltey, late possessors of the same.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Thomas Cromwell, knight, Lord Cromwell, Privy Seal.
1478. —to Master Jermayn.
R. O. In favor of Edmond More, who married Jermayn's kinswoman, and is in great poverty, being uncharitably dealt with by Edmund Rede of Norwich. Asks Jermayn to help him with something towards his voyage.
Hol., p. 1.
1479. Rauf Morice to Cromwell.
R. O. Seeing Cromwell so busy, dislikes to cumber him with small suits; but being persuaded that doing good is very pleasure to Cromwell, has once again come to him with his old suit for the farm of Biggyng, (fn. 28) in Hechyn. Has devised a supplication to the King, so as not to put Cromwell to further cumbrance than by his favourable word to prefer the same. Sends copy.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1480. Rauf Morice to Cromwell.
R. O. Lest I should "not" seem like one that doth nothing esteem the favour of so noble a man, I continue to crave furtherance of my suit for the farm of the cell in Hychyn, named Byggyngs. I trust your Lordship will consider my necessity, having wife and children "yearly growing unto a more number," and no certainty of living. Besides the example of your goodness to divers travailing with their pen in this happy world of godly reformation, I am encouraged by the King's liberality. Now, as his Highness' pleasure was, two years past, for Hawkyns of the Guard to have the farm of the parsonage of Ospringe, Kent, which had been granted to me by the Master and fellows of St. John's, Cambridge, I do forbear 20 nobles a year. The thing for which I sue is but 14l. a year in the King's books, and most part is in ruinous tenements, so that few make suit for it. My petition is that the King, in consideration of my services in his Highness' affairs committed unto my Lord my master (fn. 29) these eight years past, to grant me a lease of the said cell 20 nobles under the rent valued.
Please declare your pleasure in the premises to my friend Mr. Ames, your servant; I am busy in writing about the ordinances of his Highness' colleges, and cannot do my duty in person.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1481. Richard Moryson to Cromwell.
R. O. I must recompense old benefits in seeking new; ingenui est animi, cui multum debeas, ci velle plurimum debere. I am a graft of your Lordship's own setting, and will stand in no other's ground. I beg your Lordship's letters to Mr. Bowes, and another to certain gentlemen of the country whom Mr. Barton shall name to Mr. Wriothesley. "I thank God and Mrs. Prior, I may go well again." Mr. Barthelet stays the printing of my book; (fn. 30) he will know your pleasure. Other men have but tickled the Pope, I have so pricked him that men shall say I know how to anger popes. Would it were the answer to Mr. Traitor Pole's book; if I thought he would be so mad as to put forth his, I would stop mine and "turn Cochleus in Polum." Help me now with some money. I trust after this to live of that that your goodness hath made mine. Barton is my farmer. I can get him no higher than 40l., charging me with the tenths. I trust your Lordship will help me, that the first-fruits take not with them all the rest for this year.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal.
1482. [Moryson] to Phylippes.
R. O. Thanks him for his letters. Will try to obtain my Lord's commandment that Mr. Wakefield (fn. 31) may help him and others desirous of knowledge of Hebrew. Is glad that Phylippes is so far on his journey, as it was by his persuasion that he gave up the Court for literature. Shall claim a share of the praise if he succeed. Did his "lamentation" in his boots, as my Lord and the King know, in an afternoon and a night. Made a remedy of sedition. Is compelled to do things in such haste that he is ashamed to think them his when he sees them abroad.
In Morison's hand, p. 1. On the dorse is the beginning of a letter to "my Lord."
1483. John Mullard.
R. O. Complaint by John Mullard, a servant of the late Thomas Brooke, lord Cobham, to the lord Privy Seal, against Chr. Hales, master of the Rolls, executor of the said Lord, for withholding a sum bequeathed to him.
Large paper, p. 1. Endd.
1484. Edward North to Cromwell.
R. O. Sends a poor token, not that he wishes to molest him with suits, but for good will.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1485. Joan Petyte.
R. O. Complaint of Joan Petyte, wife of John Petyte, one of the barons of the Exchequer, against Wm. Lacye, of the parish of St. Martin in the Vintry, whom she had already caused to be cited for defaming her, and by whose procurement R[obert] Tyrrye, Thos. Nuttynge, and others raised a riot, and made a scandalous outery against her at her house in Thames Street on the 8th Sept. last. Signed.
A long sheet of paper. Add. at the head: Lord Cromwell, lord Privy Seal.
1486. John Petyte, of Greyys Ine, to Cromwell.
R. O. I am diseased that I cannot come unto your Lordship. I hear say I should give up my office. Never intended it; if I did I would inform your Lordship, who got it for me of the King. I trust to occupy it this next term. If unable to occupy it, I will resign it to whom you please, having a sufficient pension during my life, for I have no other living, for my fees be gone.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Sir Thomas Cromwell, knight, lord Privy Seal, and Secretary.
1487. John Rastell (fn. 32) to Cromwell.
R. O. Is oppressed by extreme poverty and long imprisonment, forsaken of his kinsmen, destitute of friends. Has not offended the King or committed anything against the laws to deserve it. If he might come to answer doubts not he would excuse himself to the shame and confusion of his malicious accusers. Thinks he has great wrong to have been kept in durance so long without coming to his answer. If the King and his Council are not at leisure, at least the crime is not such but that he might well have his poor carcase at liberty on surety. What can it profit any man to keep him in this hard captivity. Can do nothing to get his living and has nothing to find him but alms and charity. Begs him to have some remorse, and help him to the equity of the King's laws. If he is here by the King's own commandment and cannot be released but by his own mouth, he may lie here till he starves before he can come to the King's speech or find any friends to speak for him, unless Cromwell extend his goodness toward him.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Lord Keeper of the King's Privy Seal. Endd.
1488. Françoys Regnault, Sworn Bookseller (fn. 33) of the University of Paris to Cromwell.
R. O. Lived in London 40 years ago, and since returned to Paris and continued his trade as bookseller in London, and likewise printed missals, breviaries, and hours of the use of Sarum, and other books. Has entertained at his house in Paris, honorable people of London, and other towns of England. Understands that the English booksellers wish to prevent him printing such books, and to confiscate what he has already printed, though he has never been forbidden to do so, but his books well received.
Asks permission to continue to sell the said "usaiges" and other books in London and the environs. Asks him to speak to the King, the Chancellor, and others.
If any faults have been found in his books, will correct them.
Hol. Fr., p. 1. Add.: "Garder des Prive Seaulx. Endd.
R. O. 1489. John Sherman.
Petition to Thos. lord Cromwell, Chief Secretary and lord Privy Seal, desiring letters to a coroner's jury to give a verdict according to right and conscience, as Thos. Bowman had threatened to make them "wear papers" if they did not convict Sherman of the death of Bowman's wife. It seems that for three years Sherman resorted to Bowman's house, being in love with his daughter, and that Bowman's wife accidentally struck her hand against a bodkin that he had taken up to pick his nails; that Sherman afterwards was seven weeks in Ireland, and after his return was laid in prison by Bowman, who, however, had offered to deliver him for 4l.
P. 1. Endd.
R. O. 1490. Thos. Treffry to Cromwell.
Asks Cromwell to obtain for the inhabitants of Fowey, Cornwall, late in the hands of the prior of Tywardreth, and now in the King's possession, the following liberties:—
1. A corporation of a mayor and commonalty as Plymouth, Dartmouth, and other ports. 2. Two market days in the week, and two fairs in the year to endure for four days, the assize of bread and ale, and to be quit of their prisage wine by one tun of every ship. 3. To have the liberties of the water of the port, accounting for them in the Exchequer at Lastuthyell, as others have done. 4. To have the lands, rents, courts, fines, issues and profits of the town to the yearly value of 31s. 10d., the tithing corn of the parish to the yearly value of 9l. 3s. 4d. in fee ferme or otherwise, paying what the King pleases to the receiver of the Court of Augmentation. 5. Licence to purchase lands and tenements to the value of 20l. Treffry desires to have the manor of Treuante, late belonging to the said prior, to the yearly value of 16l., within the parish of Fowy, that he may be better able to maintain the defence of the town and port as he has done these 26 years.
P. 1. Large paper. Add.: Lord Privy Seal.
R. O. 1491. Edward Twynyhoo to Cromwell.
Desires favor for his servant, the bearer, whom he begs Cromwell to take into service, giving him only his livery and the writer will give him 4l. a year, besides which he may dispend 6l. 13s. 4d. and better. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: "My good lord and master my lord of the Privy Seal and visigerent unto the King's Highness." Endd.
R. O. 1492. Sir Henry Wiat to Henry VIII.
Thanks him that he has not chastised his son extremely, and has sent his old and faithful servant to the writer for his comfort. Wishes his body were of ability likewise to continue in his service, but his son must supply his place; whom if his truth were spotted, he would desire to see perish before his face. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
R. O. 1493. Sir Anthony Wyngfeld.
His petition for recompense for his title to the castle of the Holte, and the lordships and manors of Bromfeld and Yale, in the marches of Wales, now in the King's hands, which were allotted in Richard III.'s days to Sir John Wyngfeld his father, upon a partition made between the old duke of Norfolk, the old earl of Derby, the Marques Barkely, all deceased, and the said Sir John upon the "enhabitance" of the late earl of Warren. Their yearly value is 250 marks. In recompence thereof he asks for the following lands late belonging to the nunnery of Campsie, now suppressed. The manors of Campsie, Wykham, Totyngton cum Stamford, and Swyston, Wykham church, the parsonages of Piske, Tunstede and Tadyngton. Total value, 144l. 8s. Offers to pay 66l. 13s. 4d. rent.
Large paper, pp. 2. Endd.
1494. Sir Robt. Wynfelde's Remembrance to Lord Privy Seal.
R. O. Asks for a grant from the King of the lordship of Oostyrwyke, which he late had of the Merchant Staplers of Calais. It is worth 20l. st. a year, and lies in the county of Guisnes. Also of the advowson of the parish church of Peppelinge, with the rents paid yearly to the King out of the said parish, in the lordship of Sandegaate, county of Guisnes, paying 30s. a year for it. The said rents amount to 30l. yearly.
P. 1. Endd.
1495. Thos. Woddale, priest, to Henry VIII.
R. O. Has under confession one Oseborne, servant of the vicar of Raynham, Sir John Laurence. (fn. 34) Oseborne's master would have hired him, by the council of Sir Thos. Duke, vicar of Hornechurche, to disguise him like a beggar, with the liver of a beast lapped about his legs in linen clouts cut in ten pieces, and he "to beg all day, and at a privy time of the night to come where the King's grace lieth, and with wild fire balls to throw all about his place and destroy the King or his Council." The vicar of Hornechurche, having great riches, set the vicar of Raynham to speak, for he would not be known himself. These two vicars hired one John Bruer to carry a letter privily into Ireland, which he did, but on his return they refused to pay him 3l., and Bruer said the least man in England should know it, and then they said he should have [it]. The vicar of Raynham then got one John Madoke to take Bruer to the Maresse and there kill him. There is a perilous company of great men who are not the King's friends; let them that brought the vicar of Raynham be examined.
"God save the King."
Pp. 2.
1496. William Wood, of Stamford, to Cromwell.
R. O. Gives information that he has found in a church certain missals, legends, grayles, emanuells, antyfiners, &c., with the Pope's name still uncorrected, of which he has brought part to show to Cromwell. Could bring many more if so commanded. Begs an early answer as he lies here at great cost and is a man of small substance.
P. 1. Add. at head: Lord Privy Seal.
1497. Elene Wryne to Cromwell.
R. O. Her husband is "very ill troubled with the mayor and sheriffs (fn. 35) this year," who would put out her son John Cavallary and other of her husband's clerks in the office of recordership that Cromwell gave him, and would put in a clerk at their pleasure, for malice, because her husband had written a letter to Cromwell about Wm. Aldersey, the sheriff, who had robbed a ship upon the sea this year past. (fn. 36) The best men of the town take her husband's part. The other part, by comfort of Sir Piers Dutton, will labour to get the King's or Cromwell's letters against him. Asks him not to suffer such letters to pass, and to send a letter, either from the King or himself, to the mayor, sheriffs, and city, to suffer him and his clerks to use his office as before.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1498. Lisle Correspondence.
R. O. 1. [— to Lord Lisle].
My Lord, "the keeper of the walls by the ordinances should receive in the hole over the report office door, one report for Master High Marshal and now used another for his said servant." By the old ordinance, immediately after Master Marshal had received his report, "he ought to deliver his servant of the walls dwelling the watchword," and his said servant should make search nightly between 9 and 10 o'clock round about the walls, and at the relief in the morning in like manner, and should not admit another without your Lordship's authority. It is hard to search the inns in this town well and do the other office well also.
The search of strangers is in your Lordship's authority and is granted to one of your servants. If you will have it nightly done, you may be certified every morning of the evil rule and misuse in every inn and lodging.
Hol., p. 1.
R. O. 2. Jehan Filleul to the Deputy of Calais.
Requests leave to set up a school for writing and French in Calais.
Hol. Fr., p. 1.
R. O. 3. [Jehan Filleul] to the Deputy of Calais.
Presents himself before the Deputy to desire leave to put up specimens and handbills monstres et affiches) touching his craft of writing. His residence is at St. Omer.
Hol., Fr., p. 1. Same hand as § 2.
R. O. 4. John Perpowntte to Lady Lisle.
I am compelled to trouble you with this bill by Robt. Amnerer, who has complained to Richard Bell of me, taking for his record Wm. Seller and his wife, with Wm. Crowcher, who have denied his saying. That you may know his dealing, first, I should have received from him the rest of your mark, but had never a penny, but at the Nativity I shall have it of an honest man. He took Mr. George's coat and made John Weston a coat. Mr. George's is yet unpaid for. When at Winchester I was asked to help its being paid by him that is surety. He has fought twice with Goodman Frankelyn, being in the wrong, and once with Richard Smyth, who with a stone hit Robert upon the brow and laid him in dust. Since then he has had rest of him. I came to Thomas Ryder to give him the nombles of a buck, when he came out of Weston's to fight with me, knowing no cause. He said with great oaths and opprobrious words that I should never have a penny of your money, the rest of the mark, yet by the advice of Thos. Chanell he was content to pay it to Wm. Seller. He intends shortly to come to Calais. The town will be little amended by him, for his naughty conditions of lying and brawling will often bring you out of patience, if you give credence thereto.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: At Calais.
R. O. 5. John Perpowntte, Curate of Subberton, to Lady Lisle.
Have received your letter saying that the bearer shall content me of my duty. Now he alleges lack of sale and that half is yours, wherefore he thinks it will be your pleasure if I tarry. John Arnold and Bulle have not agreed about the parsonage, so I am like to go at large. Notwithstanding, I have forborne my money, if I am not put out, that your ladyship may take no loss by the sale, and please your coparcener. If I tarry I will take money from Thos. Frye or Ric. Nayler at their first sale. I am sorry the wind served me no better upon the sea. I should have written in Edw. Russell's letter that he made no promise to Bell of his house, and desires the continuance of your favor.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: At Calais.
R. O. 6. Sir John [Perpowntte], Curate of Subberton, to [Lady Lisle].
As for Master Ambrose, neither I nor my wife ever spoke ill word to him, but he will have hot meat twice a day, which passes my power. Avyse can inform you of his mind and words as they came from church. I have been with him at Wymryng. Let me know what to do with the other boar.
ii. Pray take no displeasure if I attempt the law against Sir Thomas for the 16s. 8d. I lent him at his first coming, which he now in part forsweareth. I will do nothing till your pleasure be known. I desire a little straw to thatch my house. From Subberton.
Delivered to Mrs. Froste 5 qrs. of wheat at 12s. per qr.
P. 1.
R. O. 7. Jenne de Quieret to Lord Lisle.
I thank you for your letter. I have not merited so much honor from you or the English. I have no occasion to retire to Calais or elsewhere, for the governors of the two princes do not prevent my being at home where I am, for they know well I have no ill intention, and am a widow, without power to do harm. From your house of Landreteun, this Wednesday.
Hol. Fr., p. 1. Add.
R. O. 8. J. de Quieret to Lady Lisle.
On hearing of her pregnancy, offers her the use of anything in her house. Can well imagine the pleasure it must give to her lord and her to obtain what they have so much desired, as lady Lisle expressed to the writer when with her. "De vostre meson de Landreteun," this Monday.
Sends some fruit from her garden.
Hol. Fr., p. 1. Add.
R. O. 9. Jenne de Quieret to Lady Lisle.
I send the bearer, desiring to be informed of the health of my Lord and you. "De vostre meson de Landreteun," Sunday.
Hol. Fr., p. 1. Add.
R. O. 10. Nicolas Caron to Lord Lisle.
I send back your garçon and beg that he may not be beaten. I send by the bearer a "cras dargent" and an "aman" (?) which he had upon him. I have bargained with this bearer to give him 20s. Allow some of your servants to buy me some oranges and a pomegranate. Boulogne, this last Wednesday (che Merquedy dernier), 1536.
One of my relations was arrested with three horses at Calais, and made to pay a crown for a passport without reason. I would not do this to your servants. The horses are bay, and belong to me.
Hol. Fr., p. 1. Add.: Deputy of Calais.
R. O. 11. Nicholas Caron to Lady Lisle.
I have received your letter and will not fail to do that which is contained therein. I understand that Monsieur will not leave Boulogne, but Madame de Bours is very desirous to visit you. Boulogne, "che dimenche dernier."
Hol., Fr., p. 1. Add.: a Calles.

Footnotes

  • 1. The names marked with an asterisk are struck out, some being marked "sol."
  • 2. The names marked with an asterisk are struck out, some being marked "sol."
  • 3. Sheriffs in 1536.
  • 4. Mayor in 1535–6.
  • 5. Note in the margin in a different hand, "No man would say so, therefore a forgery to make them odious."
  • 6. His name is otherwise written Lawney. See Cranmer's Letters, 301, 367.
  • 7. Thos. Jennins, rector from 1524 to 1565. Newcourt.
  • 8. Stat. 27 Hen. VIII. c. 26.
  • 9. Thos. Lloyd. See Vol. x. g. 226 (13).
  • 10. Llantarnam, a small Cistercian abbey in Monmouthshire.
  • 11. Mary.
  • 12. The prior of Folkestone surrendered his monastery on the 15th November 1535. See Vol. IX., No. 816.
  • 13. See Vol. X., Nos. 271, 288, 927.
  • 14. Blank.
  • 15. See Valor Eccl. i. 214.
  • 16. Cannington was a small Benedictine priory, and must have been suppressed in 1536.
  • 17. Died in 1530.
  • 18. 27 Hen. VIII. c. 14.
  • 19. John Byrchynshawe.
  • 20. This letter is not unlikely to have been written in July or August 1536, with reference to the Injunctions, No. 377 in this volume.
  • 21. According to Hakluyt (Voyages, iii. 700) he made two voyages to Brazil, in 1530 and 1532.
  • 22. Anthony Knyvet.
  • 23. See Vol. IX. 504 (8).
  • 24. Sir John Russell's chaplain. See Vol. V., No. 233, Vol. VII., Nos. 1084, 1223, &c.
  • 25. Lady Margaret Douglas?
  • 26. See Vol. VIII., No. 1140.
  • 27. See Vol. VI., No. 422.
  • 28. Of the Gilbertine nunnery of New Bigging, in Hitchin.
  • 29. Cranmer.
  • 30. His Apomaxis, which was printed by Berthelet, and bears date at the end 1537; but as in the dedicatory epistle Cromwell is addressed only as Secretary (Regi cum a secretis tum a consiliis), the printing seems to have begun before July 1536.
  • 31. Died 1538, according to Pits.
  • 32. The writer of this letter is said by Pits to have died in 1536, which may mean 1537 of our notation if he died in the early part of the year before Lady Day. The only previous notice of him in this volume is in the endorsement of No. 1111, and probably refers to his imprisonment. But it may be that he was imprisoned earlier in the year (in consequence, perhaps, of the opinions noticed in Vol X., No. 248), and that the mention of him in the endorsement of No. 1111 has reference to this very letter.
  • 33. Libraire juré.
  • 34. According to Newcourt, John Cambrege was vicar of Rainham, in Essex, from 1514 to 1541. But the name Cambrege may be an alias. There is no list of the vicars of Hornchurch, and the incumbent's name is not mentioned even in the Valor. But see Vol. X., No. 1264.
  • 35. Of Chester.
  • 36. Aldersey appears to have been sheriff in 1534 (qu. 1534–35 ?). See Vol. VII., 598 (2).