Henry VIII: March 1537, 1-5 | British History Online

Pages 254-267

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 12 Part 1, January-May 1537. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1890.

Citation:

March 1537, 1–5



St. P. v. 70. R. O.	540. HENRY VIII. to RALPH SADLER.
	"Intructions, &c., to his trusty and well-beloved servant, Ralph Sadler, gent, of his Privy &c."
	First, the King hears from Sadler, whom he lately sent to Scotland to visit the queen of Scots, his sister, that she, having entered into a controversy for the decision of the validity of her marriage with Steward, has been so treated in the absence of the king of Scots, her son, that even if she were not his sister the King could not but pity her. Although the king of Scots, as she is his mother and of noble parentage, will no doubt see her injuries redressed; the King requests he will see her used according to the agreements for her marriage, and has accordingly sent Sadler to him in France. Sadler is therefore, after obtaining audience, to say that the King, hearing, since James' departure to France, that his sister was not honourably treated, sent Sadler to Scotland to learn the truth; that he finds she was not only brought to extreme need, but pressed to renounce the lands secured to her as her dower, and to that end "very evil used in the suit between her and the said Steward." He therefore desires that she may have indifferent justice in her causes and not be interrupted in what was made sure to her at her marriage with James' father. Sadler is to temper this gently so as not to irritate the king of Scots.
	Draft corrected by Wriothesley, pp. 10. Endd.
R. O.	541. [_ to BP. FOXE.]
	Although I have received no answer to my letters from your paternity, yet, relying upon your piety I venture to write to you a second time. I learn from the letters of Chr. Mont sent to my friend Melancthon that there are some among you who dread lest we should return to Popery. We have already testified our resolutions and confirmed them in this diet, (fn. 1) to make no concession as to doctrine, the use of the Sacraments, and the keys; and as to ceremonies indifferent and church goods, to make no compact with any who will not consent to the above declaration and support the purity of religion. We are urgent with the Emperor to have an imperial diet where religion may be discussed, as had been frequently arranged before the diet at Frankfort, and in that diet was decreed once more last year. As the Pope will endure no reformation, so he will not allow the Emperor to let us have a free diet and sound consultation for restoring the churches. The Emperor, therefore, neither assents nor denies, and we are in suspense between war and peace. Many think that the Emperor is more inclined to peace, as he himself promises. The estates of the nation are perilled by these religious controversies, the bishops exclaiming that by us they are deprived of their dignity and property, and we complaining that all the churches in Christendom are stripped bare by them, and that nothing but Anti-Christ was taught: so I do not see how a solid peace can be expected, unless religion be restored, or how that can be without a free diet. We pray God to direct the Emperor to His glory, being resolved never to admit again the Pope's supremacy, nor yet as much episcopal authority as the Nicene Synod conceded him, unless he become a truly Christian bishop. I should think your Church happy if it were as free from papal dogmas as we shall continue free from papal dominion. There is some hope of your more complete agreement with us, because your King has offered a conference with us on disputed points of doctrine. We have four writings ready—of marriage, private masses, communion in both kinds, and vows. But if afterwards a friendly congress do not take place before the King himself, we are afraid it will be mere loss of time. Philip [Melancthon] is afraid of the sophistry of some. Some conjecture that two men of importance will be sent to Solyman to keep the peace, and that will be to our disadvantage. From Smalcalde.
	Lat., pp. 2.
R. O.	542. THOMAS ABELL, Priest, to CROMWELL.
	"My lord, I beseke our Saviour Jesu Christ to give your Lordship after this life, life everlasting in Heaven. Amen." I beseech you move the King's grace to give me licence to go to church and say mass here within the Tower, and for to lie in some house upon the Green. I have now been in close prison three years and a quarter come Easter, (fn. 2) and your Lordship knows that never man in this realm was so unjustly condemed as I am, "for I was never, since I came hither, asked nor examined of any offence that should be laid unto my charge; also Master Barker, my fellow, was commanded hither with me, and both of us for one thing and deed, and he was examined and delivered and I was never spoken to, and yet condemned and lie here still in close prison." What was put in my condemnation is untrue, as I have written to your Lordship largely once before this. I judge and suppose, in your Lordship, such pity and compassion that you would of your own accord have besought the King to give me the liberty I desire, even had I been guilty, after so long imprisonment. I doubt not but that you will do so now, knowing, as you do, that I am innocent and have so great wrong. Therefore I do not rehearse the diseases I have, nor my increasing misery, need, and poverty. I commit to you this little petition of going, to church and lying out of close prison.
	Hol., p. 1. Endd.
R. O.	543. THOMAS DALARYVERE to [CROMWELL].
	Begs his Lordship to have him in remembrance to the King for the monastery of Rastall, Yorksh., N.R., now in the hands of Sir John Bomere (?), who bought a lease of it from one Thomsone, merchant taylor of London. This lease is now in the custody of Sir Rauf Evers, who is willing that the writer shall have it. Desires also the keeping of Fosse in the same Riding, now in the hands of Lord Darcy.
	Hol., p. 1. Endd.
Poli Epp. II. 23.	544. CARD. POLE to CARD. CONTARINI.
	No one but the Pope has more authority over him than Contarini. Then why write twice on the same subject? Wrote from Bologna his wish to satisfy both Contarini and the bishop of Verona. Has followed Verona's counsel and is now both well and strong. Feared only that what was good for his body might hurt the souls of others, and that he might incur scandal by his good living. Will, however, obey Contarini's advice and the Holy Father's command (declared in the prothonotary's letters), health demanding it. Hopes to be assisted and strengthened by the Pope's prayers. As to his mission there is nothing to write till he enters France. There he hopes soon to scent what will be done for the honour of God and the service of the Church. Commendations to the most reverend fathers and thanks also to the Card. Hipporegiensis for the kindness his nephew, the vice-legate, has shown the writer. Placentia.
	P.S.—The rest of his companions have gone out to see the town and he is left alone in the house; for on account of those golden shackles which Contarini knows of, he could not so well go out. Comments upon the magnitude of his undertaking. End lost.
	Lat.
1 March. R. O.	545. BP. ROLAND LEE to CROMWELL.
	By your late letters to me, it pleased your Lordship I should ascertain the same of the misdemeanour of the late prior of the Woodehouse, whose examination I send by the bearer, servant to Mr. Evans, your deputy for the correction of such lewd persons within the diocese of Worcester, who has the said prior in keeping. I desire that your Lordship will provide some "sad, discreet, religious person," or else let us provide such, to be prior there, and send the late prior to his provincial to be further ordered. Wigmore, 1 March.
	P. 1. Add: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1 March R. O.	546. R. CARNABY to CROMWELL.
	On Monday 26 February my lord of Norfolk, the King's lieutenant was at Hexham and dissolved the monastery with very good exhortations to the inhabitants, avoiding the canons and putting Carnaby in possession as farmer. Finds his neighbours of Hexham and the shire very tractable and sorry for what they have done amiss. They are ready to obey him as their officer notwithstanding rumours that he had been discharged by the archbishop of York, and but for Cromwell's assurance and the surety he has by chapter seal during his life he would have been discouraged. My lord Lieutenant when here enquired of Carnaby if he knew that any of the canons had made any insurrection or resistance since the pardon. Answered, No, otherwise he would have been an untrue man to conceal it. Will write more at length, for the haste of Master Ellerkar was so great that time would not serve him. Hexham, 1 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1 March R. O.	547. THOS. [GOLDWELL], Prior of Christchurch, Canterbury, to LORD LISLE.
	Thanks him for his goodness to himself and his church here. Has received his letter of credence by Wm. Fissher. Hears that he wishes some hangings of arras and also a carpet. Has none, and never knew of any in this church. The carpets, such as he had, were burnt when the King's visitor (fn. 3) lay here. Such as he has left John Anthony shall see and take whatever he thinks will please his Lordship. Canterbury, Thursday, 1 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.
1 March. R. O.	548. WM. LEEKE to LADY LISLE.
	On the last day of February Master Coope died, so I have moved my fellow Bell to go to Master Kingston, and in my Lord's, name and yours stay such things in Hampshire as may be to your minds until he know your further pleasure. I hope I have discharged my Lord's commands and yours in Somersetshire. I have taken upon me to be your woodward in Avell and have sold a copse for you, discharging Mr. Auditor's cost, that my Lord and you may reseive the whole rent. Bell has been at trouble for you in getting his horse and other business. Subberton, 1 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add. At Calais.
1 March. Cott. Appx. 1. (91). B. M.	549. WM. BRABAZON to CROMWELL.
	My lord Deputy and the King's retinue here are in health. There is no war now, but war will be made against O'Connor if he does not fufil his covenants. There has been little done since Michaelmas, it is said for lack of money. A less number monthly paid might do better service. Much of the rental he sent over by Wm. Bodie is not leviable, and as Patrick Barnewell is there he can explain this to the King and arrange for taking an order for what is not leviable. Asks him to obtain a lease for the bearer, his servant, for 20 or 30 years, of the land Brabazon has let to him, for when men are assured of their leases they will spend money on the land. Asks his favor for Sir Edw. Basnet for the deanery of Dublin. The dean now lies at the point of death. Sends a paper of news from England. The bearer will tell him the news here. God preserve your Lordship, and also the King and Queen. 1 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal.
1 March. R. O.	550. WM. BRABAZON to CROMWELL.
	Commends the bearer, who has done good service ever since the coming of the army hither, at which time he sustained great losses by sea and otherwise. Dublin, 1 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
1 March. Add. MS., 28,589, f. 222. B. M.	551. FLORENCE.
	Instruction sent to Aguilar and Cifuentes, upon the matter of Florence, from Valladolid, 1 March 1537.
	The bp. of Forli has come to announce the election of Cosmo de Medicis. Cherubino, who was formerly ambassador from Duke Alexander, has also come. Exhaustive review of the state of affairs and of the policy to be pursued.
	Spanish, pp. 36. Modern copy from archives of Simancas.
2 March. R. O.	552. SIR ANTHONY BROWNE to HENRY VIII.
	As to the quieting of these parts and causing Tyndale and Riddesdale to make restitution to those they have offended and take oath to be true to the King, the same resteth in as good case as any other part of the realm. The inhabitants of Riddesdale have put in sufficient pledges, and those of Tyndale are fully concluded to come in on Monday next. And so, coming by my lord of Cumberland, I will declare to him your Highness' pleasure, and with all diligence repair to your Highness. I enclose a letter from the regents of Scotland in answer to yours lately addressed to them. Newcastle upon Tyne, 2 March, at 11 p.m. Signed.
	P. 1. Add. End.
2 March. R. O.	553. SIR ANTHONY BROWNE to CROMWELL.
	On Tuesday last I left Berwick for Newcastle and first took order for Redesdale, such as I trust will please the King and content his subjects of Northumberland, "who hath byn soer harreyd and spoweld." At Morpeweth, on my way, over 300 came to me for redress. I answered."acordyng to the oerdr tacun, whearat y^e ar ryeght jowyus and glad." I have taken like order with Tynedale, as I will explain on coming home; which, considering my charge to go to my lord of Cumberland, will be in 14 days. Newcastle, 2 March, 9 p.m.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Sealed. Endd.
2 March. R. O.	554. JACQUES DE COUCY [Sieur de Vervins] to the DEPUTY OF CALAIS.
	I send you a letter written to you by the Seneschal. These merchants have had their goods released for your sake. I would recommend you to send a man, who can speak French, to the Seneschal as soon as possible, to settle questions about your Pales, that you may understand each other the better. Boulogne, 2 March. Signed.
	I beg you to send back the four compaignons whom you detain, and procure the return of the 12 others who were taken within your pale and carried to Tournehen.
	Fr., p. 1. Add.: Mons. le Debitis de Calais, chevalier de l'ordre du Roy d'Engleterre.
2 March. R. O.	555. JOHN HUTTON to LADY LISLE.
	The knowledge of your noble heart and most gentle request emboldens me to write. I have nothing to write but to devise what may cause your Ladyship to be merry and to forget all fantasies by days. As for the nights, my good lord will keep you waking, as I do my wife, whom I sometime make as weary "as though she had waschid aspon." Please tell Mr. Surveyor that I look for an answer to my letter to you and to him, for I shall not bestow any more labour on him till I hear from him. I trust to be at Calais shortly, against which time you may prepare white money to play at gleek, for I would gladly be revenged. There is no news here except about war, which is no great pleasure to ladies. "It may please your ladyship to recommend me to your little boy in your belly, the which I pray God to send into your arms to your comfort and my lord's." Barough, 2 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: At Calais.
2 March. R. O.	556. _ to [LORD LISLE].
	It is not wonderful that the King (Francis) bears great hatred to the duke of Savoy and also to the Emperor, for he says the duke of Savoy intrigued with (praticqua) the Swiss who would not fight at the King's capture; and also that when the Count de St. Pol was returning from Lombardy he was more harassed by the Savoyards than by the Lombards, and that afterwards the said Duke refused to deliver the town of Nice to the late Pope and the said King for their meeting there. He has also been guilty of many other cruelties to the French, which have induced Francis to search the ancient titles of Savoy by his Parliament at Paris, who found the said town of Nice and other places to belong to him by right of the late Madame d'Angouleme, his mother, and of the late Mons. de Nemours, brother of the duke of Savoy. The King accordingly sent President Payet to the said Duke with a herald, declaring his pretensions in Savoy and Piedmont. The Duke only replied that he did not believe the King would strip him of these lands which he had enjoyed 250 years, and the President caused the herald to declare war against him. While these things were being discussed the Swiss, who were secretly engaged to the King, occupied the town of Geneva, and the Savoyards, as already mentioned, laid siege to it. The Swiss rose in arms to succour their men, and the Seigneur de Verey also. The Swiss sent to the King to know if he laid any claim to the town of Geneva, and they would retire. The King answered that he did not forbid them to make war upon the duke of Savoy, but that he would rather have the said town for himself than for them, or for the said Duke. The Duke immediately sent the Count de Challans to beg the King for aid against the Swiss. The King replied that he had still eight or ten bloodhounds and as many other hounds (chiens courans), and five or six huntsmen whom he would send if he liked. The count returned quite crestfallen to his master, where the said President was already, as before mentioned. Then the duke of Savoy sent to the Emperor, who was at Rome, and meanwhile the Admiral and his army marched through Savoy and took Turin and other places. When the Emperor was informed of the whole affair, he wrote a most gracious letter to the King, stating that he was informed of his dispute with the Duke, but his own intention was to come to Milan and into Savoy where he and the King could settle the matter, and make good cheer together, and that the King might send the cardinal of Lorraine with whom he greatly desired to speak. The King was very glad, and on receipt of the letter sent the Cardinal to the Emperor, whom he found near Florence. The Cardinal expected a good reception, but the Emperor told him that he did not know why he came to him, and bade him go to the Pope. He did so, but finding no comfort there returned to the Emperor at Aaste, where they had high words, the Cardinal showing him the letter he had written to his master the King; but the Emperor took no account of it and marched on to Nice. Since that time the hatred has increased every day. The duke of Savoy delivers all his lands to the Emperor, and the Emperor delivers to him Brescia, Vicenza, and other lands beyond Milan, undertaking to reduce the countries belonging to the Duke. The Duke perceives his folly and is trying hard to win over the King. The Venetians have been gained for the Emperor, and all the Italians, although there has been some commotion, and the duke of Florence has been killed. There are still 3,500 Italians with the King's army. The King can no longer have lance knights, for he has confiscated the goods of those who had come to France and banished their wives and children. It is said the Danes are reconciled to the Emperor. The king of Navarre and his wife are going into Gascony. The queen of Scots embarks at Dieppe. There are at Honfleur five galliasses, two great galleys, and the King's galleon. There are also 10 barks of 50 or 60 tons each, which were laden with victuals for the great ship in December last, when they hoped to put the said ship to sea, but this they were not able to do, and they have unladen the victuals from the barks. They intend to put the said great ship to sea at the spring tide this March, but they say they must take the masts out. There is a fine ship at Havre de Grace, quite new made, of 100 tons burden. Eight ships of war are at Dieppe, and a ship at Rouen not very large. The king intends shortly to go to Lyons to get near Languedoc and near his brother the king of Navarre. He will take with him plenty of Swiss. He is raising a great quantity of money. These taxes have produced 1,000,000 of francs. The church also is taxed 1,000,000 of francs and 88,000 livres. Those of Paris and the widows give him 400,000 cr. of gold. The kingdom is exhausted. Labourers flee from it, the gendarmerie rob so much. No person feels secure through all the kingdom. There is nothing but murders, robberies, rapes, and violent wrongs. Mons. de Humieres has gone beyond the mountains as the King's lieutenant. He is Marshal of France by the death of Mons. de Fleurenge. The captains and commanders are dying, as the duke of Albany, the count Dampmartin, the Seigneur de Fleurenges, Mons Dalesgre, and the Seigneur Rance.
	Please send me my money by the bearer else I cannot live. You know that much is due to me. 2 March.
	Fr., pp. 4.
2 March. Nero. B. I. f. 76. B. M.	557. JOHN III. KING OF PORTUGAL to HENRY VIII. (fn. 4)
	Was informed lately by his brother the Emperor that in his opinion much good would ensue from a marriage between the Infant, the writer's brother, and Henry's daughter his cousin (prima). Thinks so too. Now the Emperor informs him of what he has done in the matter, and that he intends to send a personage to England about it. Would take much pleasure from the conclusion of it. Evora, 2 March 1537. Signed.
	Portuguese, p. 1. Add.:
3 March.Harl. MS. 6989 f. 67. B. M.	558. PRIVY COUNCIL to NORFOLK.
	The King lately sent letters to Sir Robert Constable to repair to his presence, the bearer whereof found him at _ (blank) 30 miles from his usual abode, and he made no satisfactory answer to the letters. Considering that he could for his own commodity remove to a place so far from his usual dwelling and standing upon the sea side, and also that he could make no suitable answer for his late offences, you are to have a special eye upon him and advise him as of yourself to repair hither. If he do not address himself hither with diligence you shall send him up by a serjeant-at-arms. You shall secretly inform Sir Ralph Ellerker jun., and Sir Ralph Evers of this matter and let them take order in the ports of Hull and Scarborough to prevent his stealing away into outward parts. Westminster, 3 March. Signed by Cromwell, Fox, Sampson, FitzWilliam, Paulet, Kingston, and Russell.
	Modern copy, pp. 2. Headed: To the Duke. Orig. endorsed: Newcastle, 6 March. Numbered "cxxxi."
3 March. R. O.	559. CHR. MONT to WRIOTHESLEY.
	Excuses not having returned to him according to appointment, has been so busy in copying the articles Wriothesley committed to him. Delivered to the bishop of Hereford the book he had from my Lord, which he promised to give into Wriothesley's hand. Will do his utmost diligence to execute the order given him. London, 3 March.
	Hol., Latin, p. 1. Add.: Domino Wrysleo amico. Endd.
3 March. R. O.	560. [COUNCIL OF CALAIS to CROMWELL.]
	We wrote lately about the capture of victuallers coming to the town by the French. It will be difficult to follow the instructions in your Lordship's letter, signed by the Council, bidding us act so that each party will think us neutral. If we hang up these four Frenchmen, all the French will take it for extremity, although in so doing we should do them no wrong. We wish to know the King's pleasure and yours, whether we shall do justice or use misericord. Calais, 3 March.
	Since we have kept them in prison we have had no business on any side. We think we shall find the Burgundians obedient to the King's pleasure, if the French will let them alone in our Pales.
	P. 1. Draft in Palmer's hand.
R. O.	561. [LORD LISLE] to CROMWELL.
	Since your Lordship's last letter to me declaring the King's pleasure touching the neutrality of the two princes, and that the King had written his pleasure both into France and Flanders for redress of the same, they have done more injuries than before, especially the French. I have no cause to complain of the Burgundians. The Frenchmen have taken our victuallers bringing victuals to the town and put them to ransom, although Du Bies promises for one of them that he shall be sent home without paying ransom. He says he did not command his men to make any enterprise, but as for the breaking of the neutrality he is not at all displeased with them. He sends daily his people into our Pale, commanding them to take and kill both within the Pale and without. On Sunday last he sent men, who took away 100 head of neat. He keeps at this hour 45 oxen, which our victuallers of Flanders had laid into pasture within the King's country. They also bring in their cattle to fatten here, and the King's tenants pay their rents with the gains. They have at present 1,000 sheep in the King's country, which feed upon the borders of Flanders, and no man has complained of it till now; but seeing that the French break the neutrality, they, the Burgundians, have been with me desiring to be allowed to take the Frenchmen's sheep, which if we allowed we should be in great necessity for victuals. I have therefore desired the party of Flanders to cease their enterprise for eight days till I know the King's pleasure and yours, but I am in doubt if they will consent, for the French have begun three or four times, and though I have written sundry letters to Du Bies, by advice of the King's Council, he remains of opinion that he is free to kill his master's enemies in all places, except within [this] good town, as you will see by his letters which I send. He has never made restitution of a groat, but often fair letter and foul deed. Nothing has given me so much trouble since I was the King's deputy. Calais.
	Draft in Palmer's hand, pp. 3. Endd.: A copy of my lord Privy Seal's letter.
3 March. R. O.	562. JOHN HUTTON to CROMWELL.
	Notwithstanding the King's letter sent to the lady Regent about a ship of Hountflu laden with "brasell," which was taken by ships of these parts in the water of Southampton, I learn from Brussels that, by a sentence passed, it is found to be good prize for the takers. Letters came yesterday from Venice which certify that the Turk has declared war upon the Venetians, and has arrested them and their goods throughout his dominions. He promises this summer to do great feats, and will perhaps invade Sicily or Poilea. By the same letters we hear that Mr. Leonard (Reginald) Pool is cardinal and legate elect, and is to be sent as ambassador from the bp. of Rome to the King's Highness, "and was preparing himself thereunto." People here murmur against the bp. of Rome for leaning to the French king. Many lament the death of Andrea Dorea. (fn. 5) No news of the Emperor's return from Spain. Barough, 3 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Cromwell, lord Privy Seal. Endd.
3 March. Add. MS. 8,715, f.345. B. M.	563. FAENZA to AMBROGIO.
	The count of Campeggio left here yesterday morning, &c. In Picardy the Imperialists see that the French intend more than the succour of Terouenne and are making great preparations.—Fabric of St. Peter's.—The king of Scotland makes all the haste he can to depart, together with the Queen his wife, who shall be accompanied as far as the sea by the queen of Navarre.
	Italian. Modern copy, pp. 2. Headed: Da Compienny, 3 Marzo 1537.
3 March. Corpus Reform. III. 301.	564. THE PROTESTANTS AND THE COUNCIL.
	Reply of John Frederic duke of Saxony, and Philip Landgrave of Hesse, in the name of themselves and their confederates to the Emperor's ambassador (fn. 6) stating their objections to the Council indicted by the Pope at Mantua. Schmalkalden, 3 March (fn. 7) 1537.
	Lat.
Vit. B. XXI. f. 198. B. M.	2. A document headed " The * * * of Rome fro * * "(probably an answer to the papal nuncio at Smalcalde).
	"The duke of Saxon named ele[ctor] ... us the communication that you had with ... the counsaill, and he delivered us also the ... oration subscribed with your hand, in the whiche ... the bishop of Rome doth promise a counsaill bu[t desireth to have] the same in Italie; and touching the form and orde[r of the] same ye say there is nothing to be spoken at this time, [referring] that only to the authority of the bishop of Rome, albeit many of us ... meeting had no commandment concerning any counsaill ... we that be subscribed did think it best to send you an ... answer."
	We have in our assemblies often before desired a general, good, Christian, and free council for the common wealth and reformation of the Church, and pray that such a synod may be called; but, touching the place, where ye say that the bp. of Rome has deputed Mantua, we trust the Emperor will not go from those deliberations of the empire in Germany; for where ye spoke in your oration to the duke of Saxony of the perils in Germany, we think Germany the place safest from such perils, where all obey the Emperor only. Your oration also promises that the bp. of Rome shall give "such security as hath been used and such as ... may give. How this shall be taken the example of other synods in time past giveth us good monition. The Chu[rch] needeth a free council and your oration saith that there is na ... [m]ention to be made of the order and fashion of the same." * * *
	Your oration says likewise that the bp. of Rome has [po]wer to call councils, which, considering that he has so many times condemned us and our cause, is simply to hand over judgment to our adversary. We desired a free council which was promised us, in which impartial men should be chosen by the Emperor, kings, princes, nobles, and commonalties, to determine these controversies by the word of God, for the synods are judgments not only of bishops but of all the rest of the Church, as it appears of old that good princes were present at the examination of matters in councils, and it is both shame and tyranny to prefer the authority of the bp. of Rome above that of the universal Church. Therefore the authority of the Emperor and other princes and degrees must be regarded, who will choose meet men to have cognition, especially in matters of the faith where the errors of bps. are accused. Many bps. of Rome have been condemned by authority of the Emperor in times past. We therefore, now as before, desire to have a general free and Christian synod.
	Pp. 3.
3 March. Add. MS. 28,589, f. 241, B.M.	565. LUYS SARMIENTO to CHARLES V.
	By Albaro Mendez, received the Emperor's letters, &c., of 9 Feb. He was 10 or 11 days on the road. He spoke first with the King; and Sarmiento another day. The King thinks the marriage would be of little benefit, considering the inconstancy of the king of England and his kingdom, and that it were better for the peace of Christendom that the Infant should marry the daughter of France and that the Emperor should give them Milan. The King has since resolved to send the letter of credence for the ambassador or gentleman whom the Emperor shall send to treat of the dowry and how her father will hold her; but he does not fail to suggest many difficulties.—French ships.—The King and Infant say that the residence here of the French ambassador Honorato is not prejudicial to the Emperor. The night before last late the King sent for Sarmiento and said he had resolved to be guided by the Emperor in the matter of the English marriage, and yesterday sent the despatch herewith. He thanked the Emperor for his goodwill to his brother the Infant; but did not know what to say until it was seen how the king of England took it. Sends letters from the Queen and Infant. The latter said he had not written the letter of credence touching the English marriage as the King his brother had sent a credence; but he would do so if necessary.—French ships.—Portuguese news, &c. Hevora, 3 March 1537.
	Spanish, pp. 14. Modern copy from the archives of Simancas.
Add. MS. 28,589, f. 212. B.M.	2. Letters of Luis Sarmiento of 16 Feb. and 3 March 1537: answered from Valladolid, 27 March.
	Received the Emperor's letters by Manrique. The King and Queen felt much the death of the duke of Florence. The French ambassador reports that the Grand Master is coming to treat for peace with the Emperor. Has received the letter, &c., by Alvaro Mendez. The King thanks the Emperor for his pains in behalf of Don Luis, but cannot see how the marriage of England can be made, because of the inconstancy of the king of England and of his kingdom, and thinks it would be better for the sake of peace to marry Don Luys to the daughter of France and give them Milan. Negociations with regard to French ships. As to Honorato the Emperor is misinformed and his stay here is not prejudicial. News in Portugal.
	ii. To the Comendador Mayor, 9 March.
	French ships.—Milan.
	Spanish, pp. 8. Modern copy from the archives of Simancas headed as above.
4 March. R. O.	566. T. WINGFIELD to JOHN WHALLEY, Paymaster of the King's Works at Dover.
	Complains of his not answering letters. Has sent to make provision for timber and clove board, but Whalley must provide a hoy in Thames. The master has set up a great many posts, more than will be filled these two months. Wishes Candish to send down the ordnance; for a Fleming of war on Saturday robbed an English hoy off Ramsgate and took half a last of herring, the poor men's cloths, and all their money. Another man of war the same day searched the passage. There is come out five sail of Flemish men-of-war and more are coming, as it is said the King's ships be westward. The argosy taken "with" the Frenchmen in Hampton water has come to the Downs. The Frenchmen have out of her seven score butts of malmsey and all her camlets with four great pieces of. brass. Desires to know the King's pleasure and the lord Privy Seal's. Tell my cousin Candish master Saymer, captain of the Sweepstake, thanks him for his cables else they had died in the foul weather. Dover, 4 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Wingfield of Sandwich. Endd.
4 March. R. O.	567. THOMAS CLERK to CROMWELL
	Is informed that John Tutton of Mere beside Glastonbury has used seditious words against the King and spoken great slander of your Lordship. Has examined the hearers and sends their depositions. Has committed Tutton to gaol. Wokey, 4 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Sealed. Endd.
	ii. Depositions:—
	(1.) Of John Maynestone alias Sawier of Glastonbury: that upon St. Mark's Day he and others, at Bledney, at Wm. Brownyng's house, sat drinking without the door and heard John Tutton of Mere and Thomas Poole of Bledney arguing about matters of faith. Tutton called Poole a heretic because he wrought on St. Mark's Day. Poole replied that it was the King's commandment, and Tutton said he was not bound to keep the King's commandment, if it were naught as that was, adding that lord Cromwell was a stark heretic and all his witholders.
	(2.) Henry Gytte of Glastonbury, sawyer, and Thomas Johns and John Edwards of Wokey confirm this.
	(3.) Thomas Poole of Bledney says he and Tutton were at words, but, being both in fury, he does not remember the very words, but to the best of his recollection, Tutton said: "Shall I obey the King's commandment, an it be naught? Marry, I will not. Marry, many things be done by his Council which I reckon he knoweth little of; but by such means he hath gathered great treasure together, I wot well; there is a sort that ruleth the King of whom I trust to see a day, and that they shall have less authority than they have."
	P. 1.
4 March. R. O.	568. TUNSTALL to CROMWELL.
	As the time of levying the King's money is at hand, desires Cromwell to move the King to release the inhibition sent him at Michaelmas last against exercising spiritual jurisdiction during the King's visitation, and that the said visitation may be deferred to a more quiet time. Many priests have been spoiled at this commotion, and their corn taken out of their barns, and the people are slow to pay their offerings and tithes on account of the losses they have sustained by it; especially in Northumberland, where they have been spoiled by Tyndale and Riddesdale. Has not yet received the third part of what was due to him at Martinmas, and now they begin slowly with ill-will as the King's rents begin to be paid. Newcastle, 4 March.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add. Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
4 March. R. O.	569. RIC, PRIOR OF LANTHONY, to CROMWELL.
	I have been a suitor to your Lordship for dissolving of my cell in Wales, so that the profits might be put to the use of the house of Lanthony here, in consideration of my great loss in Ireland. In this and other suits I beg your favor and credence to the bearer, Mr. Porter, to whom I have disclosed my whole mind. Lanthony, 4 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Cromwell Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
5 March.	570. MONASTERIES EXEMPTED FROM SUPPRESSION.
	See GRANTS in MARCH, No. 9.
5 March. R. O.	571. SUPPRESSED MONASTERIES IN HERTFORDSHIRE.
	Inventories of the possessions of suppressed monasteries in co. Herts in the form of indentures made with the heads of houses by Francis Jobson and Thomas Myldemay, commissioners, viz.:—
	(1.) Sopewell Nunnery: Joan Pygott, prioress; made 2 March 28 Hen.VIII. Signed by the prioress (with a cross) and commissioners.
	(2.) Canons of Royston: Richard Bretten, prior: 5 March 28 Hen. VIII. Signed by the prior.
	(3.) Nunnery of St. Giles in the Wood: Annys Crooke, prioress; 3 March 28 Hen. VIII. Signed by the prioress.
	(4.) Canons of Wymondley: John Atne, prior: 4 March 28 Hen. VIII. Signed "John Atow, prior de Wymondeley."
	(5.) Nuns of Chesthunt: 28 May 28 Hen. VIII. This indenture is made, not with the prioress, but with Anthony Dennye, of the Privy Chamber, and is signed by R. Dacres in Dennye's name.
	A book of 44 long narrow pages, 20 of which are blank.
5 March. R. O.	572. TOUCHING SUPPRESSION OF ABBEYS.
	Information given at Baldock, Herts, 5 March 28 Hen. VIII. by Joan wife of Henry Punt of Radwell (at the house of John Bowells, to the said John, Edw. Creke (?), Wm. Bery, and John Sews ...), against Sir William Rider (?), parson of Radwell, for saying in the pulpit on Sunday before St. Hugh's Day "that they did turn and toss and put down abbeys and churches, and that they began naught, and naught they would make an end, and that shall be known shortly, for without the great mercy of God they shall be damned." John Coket, John Browghtoon, Henry Cokerell, John Ized, and James Crowch give evidence to the like effect.
	P. 1. Torn and injured.
5 March. R. O.	573. WM. CAVENDISH to CROMWELL.
	Being at Dover at the survey of the religious houses there, has learned that the monasteries of Dover, Langdon, St. Radegund's, and St, Sepulchre's in Canterbury must have a collector or bailiff, and no one has any patent from the late priors or has been appointed. Has therefere appointed John Antony, with the accustomed stipend of 10 marks. The whole sum amounts to 500 marks. He would not take it without Cavendissh writing to Cromwell to procure a bill from the King for his stipend. It will be a good deed for the poor man, and provide the King with an honest and true man to execute the office. He will put in sureties as the Chancellor (fn. 8) will devise. Dover, 5 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
5 March. R. O.	574. HEN. HOLBECHE, PRIOR OF WORCESTER, to CROMWELL.
	Has received his letter for the manumission of Hugh Gode, "due man" to the monastery, and are ready to seal the instrument he sent for that purpose. Worcester, 5 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.. Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
5 March. R. O.	575. W. [BARLOW], Bishop of St. David's, to CROMWELL.
	Sends the confession of certain pirates whom he has committed to gaol. The chaunter of St. David's is indicted as accessory. Detains him under sureties. Asks Cromwell's assistance that he may have the order like his predecessors and other lords marchers in these parts. Desires credence for the bearer. Cromwell shall receive 100l. before Easter. Offers to join Cromwell or his son in the patent of the earl of Worcester, who is steward of the bp.'s lands with a fee of 20 mks., and to pay him that sum, with an increase after the Earl's time. St. David's, 5 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
5 March. R. O.	576. LORD HUSSEY.
	Memorandum, 26 Feb. 28 Hen. VIII., that Thomas Rycard of Haitefeld, Yorks., gent., examined by Sir Brian Hastyngs in presence of Thos. Grene, gent., and Ric. Wayte, yeoman, upon certain communications betwixt lord Hussey and him in lord Hussey's garden at Sleford, Linc., says lord Hussey asked the news in Yorkshire concerning "eryses" (heresies). Answered "it was little there except in a few particular persons w[ho] carried in their bosoms certain books, praying to God that ... and other noble men might put the King's grace [in] remembrance for reformation thereof." Hussey replied, "That we cannot do without help of you and ... and it will never mend without we fight for h ... ., I tell thee, man, &c." Signed by Hastings, Grene, and Wayt.
	(Addition in Wriothesley's hand): Written 5 March a^o 28:—"Which examination the said Thomas Rycard hath again affirmed to me, Thomas Wryothesley examining him upon the same, being the communication between Whitsunday and Midsummer shall be two years." Signed: Thomas Rycard.
	P. 1.
5 March. R. O.	577. NORFOLK to CROMWELL.
	Has put Sir Reynold Carnaby in possession of the castle of Predo where this bearer, my lady Percy, lay. Has taken an inventory of her husband's goods and redelivered them to her by indenture. She has obeyed me in all things, and sent me a letter which the abbot of Salley sent to her husband, Sir Thos. Percy, which I think will touch the abbot very sore. She is a good woman. Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 5 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: My lord Privy Seal. Endd.
5 March. R. O.	578. SIR FRANCIS BIGOD.
	Examination of John Smyth of Wynstanley, Lanc., servant to Sir Francis Bigod, at Preston in Amounderness, Lanc., 5 March 28 Hen. VIII., before Sir Thos. Butler, Richard Hassall, and Thos. Burgoyn.
	Was with Bigod at Mogreve castle in Blakamore, Yorks., about a fortnight before All Hallowtide last, when Bigod "took the seas" to go to London, but was driven back to Hartlepool and lodged at the house of _, (fn. 9) late mayor there. That night the town arose to take Bigod who escaped to his boat and, keeping now the waters, now the woods, came home to Mogreve, where the commons took him. Heard this from Robt. Conyers and other fellow servants, for he himself had been sent home and was to join his master at London. (2.) Returned to Mogreve on Sunday, Christmas eve, and his master took him by the hand and asked him what he had done in the busy time. Answered, he was against him with lord Derby. Then Bigod said "I saw a letter in Aske's purse which came from my lord of Derby, as Aske said; and the same Aske showed me that my said lord of Derby would be with us in time of need." (3.) On coming home into Lancashire, Robt. Holte, of Stubley, Lanc., sent him with a letter to my lord of Derby, which he delivered to Henry Pilkyngton, my lord's servant at Lathom. My lord Derby asked deponent what news was in the North. Answered, he had come through three hosts, Sir Thomas Percy's, Aske's, and another, where Derby "was cried traitor." My lord then said there was none in England (the King excepted) would say it "but he would lay his sword on his face; " he trusted the King would let him "boulte out" the occasions of this slander. (4.) On Monday or Tuesday after Twelfth day last Bigod left Mogreve for Saddryngton, Yorks., leaving deponent to wait on my lady his mistress. Heard from his fellow, Robt. Graystok, that George Lumley, son and heir to lord Lumley, was with Bigod at Saddryngton, and there came to them one Halom with a company of fencible men, and beacons were lighted and 900 men raised, and Bigod with 500 went to Beverley, Lumley with 400 to Scarborough, and Halom to Hull. Bigod went to Beverley, six miles from Hull, to rescue Halom if need were. (5.) There went to Saddryngton with Bigod his servants Chr. Conyers, Rob. Conyers, Robt. Graystok, Ralph Bigod, brother to Sir Francis, a priest called "little Sir John," and others. There was no resort of gentlemen to his master's at Christmas time. Mr. Nevell, lord Latimer's brother, and his wife sojourned there, but there was no talk of further rebellion. (6.) Was led to show this by the new oath ministered to him at Weryngton by Sir Thos. Butler, one of the King's commissioners there in that behalf. Signed with a mark.
	Pp. 4. Endd.
5 March. R. O.	579. ANTHOINE CHOCQUART to LORD LISLE.
	On returning home (a mason) today, the 4th March, I received your letter touching Charles de Grave, and will do what I can, saving my oath and honour. Gravelinghes, 5 March 1536.
	Hol., Fr., p. 1. Add.: A Calais.
5 March. Add. MS. 8715 f. 346. B.M.	580. FAENZA to AMBROGIO.
	* * * I have seen letters from England of the 20th ult. from the French ambassador there, saying that the new tumults of England are appeased and that that King had cut off the heads of five "fratelli," on this account, and of one other; and that a certain prelate who had been the cause of these movements should be well chastised by the King. The king of Scotland's abbot, however, says that they are not appeased, but worse than ever, it being evident how little hope can be had in that King. He expects news hourly. The censures went—that is one part of them, and the other shall be sent also, or rather the king of Scotland will carry it; for within eight days he will leave this to go to the coast and await good weather for his passage.
	The French king will go in seven days to Amiens, from whence he will direct the war against Picardy. The Imperialists prepare to prevent the succour of Terouenne. Count William has mustered 5,000 lances at Noyon. Others coming with the son of the duke of Wirtemberg. Barbarossa's galleys expected at Marseilles.
	Italian. Modern copy, pp. 2. Headed: Da Compienny li 5 Marzo 1537.