Letters and Papers: January 1539, 16-20

Pages 29-41

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 14 Part 1, January-July 1539. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1894.

This free content was digitised by double rekeying and sponsored by the Arts and Humanities Research Council. All rights reserved.

Keyword highlight

< Prev page | Next page > ×Close

×Close < Prev page | Next page >

Footnotes

January 1539

16 Jan. R. O.	70. FRANCIS SYDNEY.
	Copy of a privy seal for a grant to Francis Sydney. Westm., 16 Jan., 30 Henry VIII. (See Grants in January, No. 19).
	Pp. 2. Endd. Injunctio: James Abs versus Lucas and Abell. Ric. Gilmyn for the office of the butlership of Bristol Ao 35o."
16 Jan. Cart. Harl. 47 A. 50 B. M.	71. DUKE OF SUFFOLK and CROMWELL.
	Indenture, made 16 Jan., 30 Hen. VIII., whereby Charles, Duke of Suffolk sells to Thomas Crumwell, knt., lord Crumwell, his beirs and assigns, for 403l. 6s. 8d., the manor of Dunsford, Surrey, with lands, &c., thereto belonging in Wandelesworthe and Wymbaldon. Signed by Crumwell with seal appended.
16 Jan. Add. MS. 33,514 f. 11. B. M. Ribier, I. 357.	72. CASTILLON to [MONTMORENCY].
	Is afraid to trouble Francis with the "petites et mécaniques façous de faire de cettuy-cy," and addresses Montmorency confidentially (plus privément) that he may know what to reply to this king of England. Yesterday there came a courier from Spain who apparently brought nothing agreeable to those here, especially about the marriage with the duke of Milan's widow. They only give them words and it is said the Emperor, to put them off, refers them to the duke Frederic Palatine on the ground that he has married her elder sister. The Duke had not yet arrived in Spain when the knight left. That you may understand the better whether they are pleased or not, the King sent for me today to speak with me apart, as usual, at his house at Westminster, where he had much trouble to conceal the object at which he was aiming, viz., to find some means of creating a breach in this friendship, so disagreeable to himself, between Francis and the Emperor; requesting always that I would not let it appear I had heard anything from him, but from some good quarter, which I should not fear to report to Francis, and that he speaks to me not as to an ambassador but to a true friend as he knows me to be; always commencing with his great friendship and regard for Francis above every other prince in Christendom as a reason why he should conceal nothing from me that might be to his advantage. He says, first, that he is sure the Emperor will never restore the duchy of Milan, but of this he professes he would rather not speak, because he does not wish to diminish the friendship between Francis and the Emperor, whom he knows as he does himself. But as he sees now an excellent opportunity of compelling him to restore Milan, and as he knows he would not do it willingly, and he fears the time would not always be so propitious, he thinks that now the Pope is making war on the duke of Urbino and the Emperor means to assist him, Francis should not suffer it but aid the Duke secretly, and he himself is willing to contribute openly. This would secure the said Duke and the dukes of Ferrara and Mantua in the interest of Francis in Italy, for they have all the same quarrel with the Pope, and they would abandon alliance with the Emperor. With these three and the king of England's aid, who only wishes to show his friendship for Francis, the latter may be assured the Emperor will not delay to restore Milan to him. Castillon professed to be more bound to him than ever, but being urged by Henry to declare his own opinion said he had no observation to make. Henry suggested that the affair was of such importance that he should go to Francis and intimate it to him, so that none should know but himself and the two Kings. "What !" exclaimed Castillon, "he would cut off my head if I went without his leave." "Surely not for a matter of such great consequence," said Henry. "When Wyatt came to me at the time they were all at Nice I was not angry with him, the thing was of so much importance. At all events, write that you have something to tell him that you cannot write and that it is probably of more consequence than anything to be negotiated." The conditions, however, were still that I should not state, even to Francis himself, that I had anything to communicate from him. "But," I asked, "if the King your brother were disposed to listen to these things, would you not go to work more frankly (plus rondement) than you have done in the past ?" "Par Dieu," he said, "it has not been owing to me, but he has never openly asked me as a friend, but always gave me to understand that what he asked was more for my sake than his. I will, if he desire it, go and speak with him myself and will see him when he pleases; but I know this will never be if you do not go yourself and give him to understand my strong desire for his welfare and the good that will come of it. It is not for my own sake; I claim nothing in Italy. I wonder he does not think what we might do if we were together ! I beg you," he said finally, "set forth this matter discreetly, and in such wise that it shall not be supposed to come from me, and I promise you the King my brother will find me in everything his most loyal friend." You may judge if he is not endeavouring by all means to shake the friendship between Francis and the Emperor. I know not what means he has sought with the Emperor, but those he has sought with Francis "touchent à la broche." If one cared to listen to them, it would be easy finding a merchant. Desires to know what answer to make. Would be glad if he were sent for, for if Henry knew the turn he has given to the negociation he would do him some displeasure. "Vous connoissez le personnage comme moy." If I am withdrawn at once I stand well with him, and may be useful another time when it is proposed to send him a personnage agreable. He tells me, as they have refused money to the Emperor in Spain he thinks the enterprise of the Levant is broken off; also that Montmorency has been long in council with the ambassador of the Pope and of the king of Portugal, for what object it is unknown; that Montmorency has sent his secretary to the Emperor to know when he will restore the duchy of Milan and will soon find that it is only words; also that Francis was sending a bishop or cardinal to the Pope to excuse himself from aiding him in his enterprise against the duke of Urbino.
	(fn. 1) Presses for his recall, Sends a little book in English by the King about the death of the marquis of Exeter and lord Montague. "J'entends que c'est leur proces fait apres leur mort." You can get it translated by some Scotchman. It contains also something about the king of Scots. London, 16 Jan.
	French. A decipher, pp. 3.
16 Jan. R. O. Rymer, XIV. 628.	73. COVENTRY, CARTHUSIAN PRIORY.
	Surrender of the house and all its possessions in cos. Warw., York., Leic., and Ntht., and elsewhere in England, Wales, and the marches thereof. Appointing Ambrose Clarcke and Thos. Gifte, laymen, as attorneys to receive and deliver the premisee to John London, clk., to the King's use. 16 Jan. 30 Hen. VIII. Signed by John Bochard, prior, Wm. Abel, vicar, and six others. [See Deputy Keeper's Eighth Report, App. II., 17.]
	Seal mostly gone.
	Enrolled [Close Roll, p. 1, No. 55] as acknowledged, same day, before John London, clk., King's commissioner.
16 Jan. R. O. Rymer, XIV. 638.	74. PULTON PRIORY.
	Surrender (by Robt. bp. of Llandaff, commendatory master of the Order of Sempyngham, and the prior and convent) of the monastery and all its possessions in co. Wilts and elsewhere in England. Chapter house of Pulton, 16 Jan. 30 Hen. VIII. Signed by Thos. Lyngwodd, prior, and two others. [See Deputy Keeper's Eighth Report, App. II., 38.]
	Fair seal.
	Enrolled [Close Roll, p. 5, No. 44] as acknowledged, same day, at Sempyngham, before Wm. Peter, King's commissioner.
R. O.	2. Pensions appointed to the late prior and convent of Pulton, Wilts, 16 Jan. 30 Hen. VIII. (first half year's payment at Lady Day next), viz. :—
	Thos. Lenewood, prior, 5l.; Hen. Draper, 40s.; John Hogge, to serve the cure there, with 106s. 8d. a year, and if he wax unable or be removed, to have 40s. pension. Signed: William Petre.
16 Jan. R. O.	75. ST. MARGARET'S PRIORY, MARLBOROUGH.
	Pensions assigned to the late prior and convent of St. Margaret's beside Marlborough, 16 Jan. 30 Hen. VIII. (first half-year's payment at Lady Day next), viz.:—
	John Sympson, prior, 10l.; Edw. Sparke, John Rodley, Thos. Welborne, and John Tangell, (fn. 2) 53s. 4d. each; Rodley to serve the cure at Kenes with 66s. 8d. more. Signed: Thomas Crumwell: Jo. Tregonwell: William Petre: John Smyth.
R. O.	2. Another copy. Signed by Sir Ric. Ryche.
	P. 1. Subscribed: 4 May 31 Hen. VIII. (fn. 3)
17 Jan. R. O.	76. ST. THOMAS À BECKET.
	Depositions against Sir Thos. Tyrrell, parson of Gislingham, before Sir Thomas lord Wentworth, Sir Ant. and Sir Humph. Wyngfilde. Lionel Talmage, John Hervy, and John Southwell, at the sessions at Ipswich, 17 Jan. 30 Hen. VIII., i.e.:—
	Of John Newporte of Wickham Skayth, Thos. Bedill of Gislingham, Nic. Prestone of Fynnyngham, Wm. Brett, Thos. Bollys, John Freman, Wm. Barnarde, and Ric. Staser of Gislingham. From which it appears that Tyrrell insisted upon saying "service of Thos. Becott" in spite of the King's proclamation to the contrary, saying he would do so until forbidden by his ordinary. The deponent Bedill heard the proclamation at Bury St. Edmond's market about a week before Christmas. Preston says he heard that the day after Childermas day, because none of his parishioners would help him to sing the said service, the parson said it himself alone. The following Sunday Tyrrell exhorted the people to go a pilgrimage. They asked him afterwards where they should go, seeing that Our Lady of Walsingham, Our Lady of Grace, and Thomas Becott were put down, and he replied, to Jerusalem; adding, that "if he were disposed to go a pilgrimage he knew whither to go."
	Pp. 4. Slightly mutilated. Endd.: The examination of the parson of Gislingham, ao 30.
17 Jan. R. O.	77. WM. COTON, mayor of Coventry, to CROMWELL.
	Touching the decay and poverty of their city. Have written to Cromwell that the expenses of the mayor and sheriffs might be diminished, for on Candlemas day, when a new mayor is sworn, he feasts a number of citizens and strangers at an expense that would keep his house half a year, and at Corpus Christi the poor commoners are at such expense with their plays and pageants that they fare the worse all the year after; also, on Midsummer Even and St. Peter's Even spend so much in drinking that some who are not worth 5l. in goods are at 40s. charges. I cannot help it without the assent of my brethren, many of whom are past all such offices and care little for those that are to come, not thinking the undoing of half a dozen honest commoners so serious a matter as the loss of one accustomed drinking. I beg you will direct your letters to us for reformation of the same. Coventry, 17 Jan. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
17 Jan. R. O.	78. DR. WILLIAM PETRE to CROMWELL.
	We have taken the surrender of Marleborough, Pulton, and Bradestok, and delivered possession to those appointed by Cromwell. At Malmesberye, where we agreed to have been yesterday, because the abbot was at London, we did nothing. Now, knowing Cromwell's pleasure, we will defer the same. The house is well stored with cattle, the shrine well kept, and the demesnes all in their own hands. As they are commanded to show no man the book of names touching Byndon, Atherney, and Buckland, requests Cromwell to declare whether he means Buckland Monachorum or that other of nuns. Bradestok, 17 January.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
17 Jan. R. O. L.'s Remains, p. 413.	79. LATIMER to CROMWELL.
	Doubts not that the King will remember his poor subjects now in Lent, touching white meat. Reminds Cromwell of it that it may come betime among them, for heretofore it hath been Mid Lent before it has come to the borders of the realm. "This Master Lucy shall be now a great piece of my letters unto you. I trust you will give to him the hearing, as you may have leisure." Likes not these honey-mouthed men when their deeds do not accord with their words. Anthony Barker would never have had the wardenship of Stratford from Latimer but for Cromwell's letter. Is sure Cromwell can boult out the meaning of the instructions given by Barker to his parish priest, whose voluntary confession Latimer sends, Mr. Lucy and all Latimer's household being present at the publishing thereof. Has never presented any matter to Cromwell from malice or ill will.
	As for the Arches, could have had fewer matters there with more money in his purse if he would have followed the old trade of selling sin and not doing his duty. Sends a copy of Barker's parish priest's recantation or revocation which shall be done on Sunday next at Stratford, one of Latimer's chaplain's being there to preach. The sheriff has kept such a sessions at Worcester as has not been seen these many years. To be master of the game in the forest of Fecknam is to be leader of many men, and he should have a true faithful heart to his sovereign. In that point you know our sheriff. (fn. 4) He dwells within four miles of Fecknam. 17 Jan., Hartl[ebury].
	Hol., pp. 3. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
17 Jan. Theiner, [...]08.	80. JAMES V. to PAUL III.
	Wrote lately for the promotion of Malcolm, dean of Dunblane, to the priory of Whithorn (Candide Case). Requests now that he will confer the deanery of Dunblane on Will. Gordon, clk. Has written at large to Card. Carpi. Edinburgh, 17 Jan. 1538.
18 Jan. R. O.	81. JOHN HUSEE to LORD LISLE.
	By Nicholas Eyre I received your sundry letters and have delivered my lord Privy Seal your letter which he read through and said he would remember you. No doubt the Friars shall be obtained, but the time must be tarried. I cannot get the 50l. of Mr. Pope although I offered 5 marks to save delay. Unless my lord Privy Seal assist me he will drive me to sue out a new warrant. My lord Privy Seal promised me a letter to Mr. Pope for it. The draper is every day with me for it. He can find no fault but that the patent was sealed but three days before Christmas. If it were not that you shall have to do with him quarterly I could be even with him; but if I cause him any displeasure he would requite it before this year pass. "He has buried this day his wife the late lady Dormer, which he taketh heavily." The caitiff that first bruited the heinous words upon your lordship will not yet be found. When Ant. Brygges, his master comes to Court I trust he shall answer for his servant. The saying is that the King's attorney shall be Chief Justice of the King's Bench. Mr. Surveyor says he can get no money to furnish the works at Calais. For the subsidy I will do what I can. London, 18 Jan.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Deputy of Calais.
18 Jan. R. O. Rymer, XIV. 632.	82. BRADENSTOCK PRIORY.
	Surrender of the monastery and all its possessions in co. Wilts and elsewhere in England, Wales, and the marches thereof. 18 Jan. 30 Hen. VIII. Signed by Wm. Snowe, prior, Thos. Pen, subprior, and 12 others. [See Deputy Keeper's Eighth Report, App. II., 11.]
	Fragment of seal.
	Enrolled [Close Roll, p. 5, No. 22] as acknowledged, same day, before John Tregonwell, King's Commissioner.
R. O.	2. Pensions assigned to the late prior and convent of Bradnestocke, Wilts., 18 Jan. 30 Hen. VIII. (first half-year's payment to be at Lady Day next), viz.:—
	Wm Snowe, prior, 60l.; Thos. Penne, 8l.; Thos. Mason, Ralph Hyll, Edw. Bruer, and Ric. Tomson, 106s. 8d. each; Geo. Notyngham, 100s.; Thos. Mesenger, Jas. Wykam, and Ric. Ware, 4l. 13s. 4d. each; John Playsterer, Thos. Baker, and John Hancocks, 40s.; Jas. Cole to serve the cure of Lynam with 6l. 13s. 4d. and the small tithes, as appears by an indenture of 29 Hen. VIII., and if removed from the same to have 100s. pension. Signed Thoms. Crumwell: Jo. Tregonwell: William Petre: John Smyth.
	P. 1.
R. O.	3. Another copy of § 2. Signed by Sir Ric. Ryche.
	P. 1, faded.
R. O.	4. Copy of § 1.
	Large paper, pp. 7.
18 Jan. R. O.	83. DR. JOHN LONDON to CROMWELL.
	Mr. Sheriff of Coventry, this bearer, the King's servant, assisted me in preventing spoil of the goods of this monastery and of the Charterhouse, and informed me of things which I have willed him to declare to you. "It is hard trusting those whose coats and hoods be sewn together;" I thought little the abbot would have been such a conveyer, and, it is told me, he labours to have his house continue longer. If what the bearer says be true he little deserves such favour. I beg you to thank the bearer, he can tell you of my conference with the good father of the Charterhouse, and of their honest behaviour, The Charterhouse contains but 14 acres and pays the prior of Coventry 14 groats a year for it; outward they have no commodities. Coventry, 18o Januarii.
	Hol., p. 1. Add: Privy Seal. Endd.
18 Jan. R. O. L.'s Remains, p. 415.	84. LATIMER to CROMWELL.
	Asks credence for the bearer Moore, the King's servant. "Your lordship shall perceive what conveyance there is by night. It were meet to know to what purpose." If Cromwell will send a commission to the sheriff and himself to examine the parties, they will do their best. Some words sound not well to the King. Moore seems an honest man. One word of Cromwell's might occasion master Captain to be better master to him than he is. God forbid he should forego his right. Latimer's counsel have seen his writings and think him debarred of his right. Cromwell may ease all with one word. It hangs between Mr. George Asshlay and him.
	Wishes there were many like Mr. Tracy. Asks Cromwell to write to the abbot and convent of Winchcombe that he may have his lease of the demesnes renewed, as others have, without condition, as he is given to good hospitality and always ready to serve the King on commissions and other ways. "Sir I know that I am a bold fool; but, till you rebuke me for the same, I must needs be malapert with you for such honest men. God be with you, and I pray God preserve you ad promotionem bonorum et vindictam malorum."
	18 Jan., Hartl[ebury].
	Hol., pp. 3. Add: lord Privy Seal. Endd: Ao xxxo.
18 Jan. R. O.	85. BP. ROLAND LEE to CROMWELL.
	In favour of the bearer, the baron of Burforde, (fn. 5) to have some end in his great matter, by which he is ruined. Remember my suit for the proclamations and commission. Wigmore Castle, 18 Jan. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Cromwell, lord Privy Seal. Endd.
18 Jan. Add. MS. 11,055, f. 2. β. M.	86. BP. ROLAND LEE to Mr. SCUDAMORE.
	Asks him to allow the bearer, Ric. Griffith of Wigmore, to purchase such stones and timber of the late dissolved monastery of Wigmore, as can be spared; for the writer does not know what will be needed for the repair of the castle of Wigmore. Shrewsbury, 18 Jan. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.
18 Jan. R. O.	87. SIR WILL. GODOLGHAN to CROMWELL.
	Being at Bodmyn at a sessions of peace holden 15 Jan., I was informed of one Symon, priest, late of the parish of St. Marywyk in Cornwall, who had spoken seditiously of the King and Council having ordered that no parson or vicar should henceforth have more than 6l. 13s. 4d. a year. The words were spoken in the parish church of St. Marywyk to John Lye, of North Pederwyn, Devonshire, and others, on Sunday after All Hallows day last; and he also told John Shame and Rob. Consen, of North Pederwin, on the morrow after All Hallows day that from that day there should no more corn be tithed, but that men should thresh it and sell it in the market, and tithe the tenth part to the King. I have committed him to Launceston gaol, and shall inquire about his adherents. Bodmyn, 18 Jan.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
18 Jan. R. O. St. I'. III. 116.	88. ALEN, BRABAZON and AYLMER to CROMWELL.
	"Part of us" wrote before Christmas that we would at that vacant time repair to these parts to publish the King's injunctions, set forth the Gospel and the supremacy, pluck down idols and extinguish idolatry and the bishop of Rome's power, and also levy firstfruits, twentieths, and other revenues and hold sessions in these four shires above the Barrow. Went first to Carlagh where lord James Butler entertained them well, and thence to Kilkenny, where they were no less entertained by Ormond. Preaching of the abp. of Dublin there on New Year's Day. Sessions kept. Repaired on the Saturday following to Rosse, which is utterly decayed by the annoyances of the Kavanaghes and contentions with Waterford. Next morning the Archbishop preached, and they went that night to Wexford, where the Archbishop preached on the Epiphany. Sessions next day. Abuse of liberties of Wexford. Wm. Seynthlow, being seneschal, is a good warrior, but unfit to administer justice, and has converted the King's revenues to his own use as James Shirlocke, receiver there, affirms. Expense and disorganisation of the soldiery. Could put good order there if they have the disposal of the farms Seyntlow now has. Cromwell wrote that one Fulk Den, defendant in a case with John Furlong, plaintiff, could not have indifferent justice in the shire aforesaid. The Chancellor thereupon sent an injunction to the plaintiff to desist, and afterwards a writ to the officers to attach him. Both were disregarded, and the case proceeded before Wm. Jerbarde, whom Seynthlow had appointed his deputy by "nude parole" and without a written commission. Verdict was given against the plaintiff, and execution done by force of the Lord Deputy's command, as Jerbarde says. These liberties should cease.
	On Saturday after Epiphany they came to Waterford and were well entertained by the mayor and brethren. The abp. of Dublin preached on the Sunday and sessions were held on Monday. Four felons were hanged, and another thief, a friar, whom they ordered to be hanged in his habit. Only Power's lands, scant half the shire, answered the sessions; the other half, under Gerald MacShane, of Desmond, adheres wholly to the pretended Earl, although the lands are parcel of the King's lordship of Dungarvan.
	Kept sessions today at Clonmel, and on Sunday the Archbishop will preach in presence of all the bishops of Munster, who are summoned, and shall be sworn to the supremacy.
	Have sent for the pretended Earl and for Gerald MacShane, but expect they will come only by messengers. Have sent also for Thomas Butler, the White Knight, and other English borderers for quieting their dissensions. Have proceeded in this journey by the Deputy's consent. Will write at length of their proceedings on returning to Dublin. Praise Mr. Wise of Waterford, the King's servant, James White, justice of the liberty of Wexford, and Walter Cowley, the King's solicitor, who has attended them.
	Beg Cromwell to thank the abp. of Dublin for his diligence. Commend Mr. Wise's son, the bearer. Clonmell, 18 Jan. Signed: John Alen, K.'s Chaunceler: Willm. Brabason: Gerald Aylmer, justice.
	Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
R. O.	2. Abstract of the above.
	Pp. 2.
18 Jan. Poli Epp. II. 145.	89. CARD. CONTARINI to CARD. POLE.
	Has received his letter from Placentia, 10th inst., and at the same time a letter from Beccatellus. Praises the piety of the bp. of Verona, to whom he has written a letter of thanks. Has written also to the Legate, Card. de Monte, a letter of thanks.
	Today at midday news came of the restitution of Camerino. The treasurer had already been received into the city with acclamations. The Ferrara business is not settled, and the envoys here are waiting answer from the Duke. Prince Auria came to Rome the day before yesterday and will leave the day after tomorrow. Would that having settled matters (constitutis rebus) with the Turk, we might purge again our own vineyard. Desires to be commended to the Emperor and the cardinals who are there; also to Granvelle and Covos and others. Beccatellus has written much about Priolus, and seems himself so strong again that he may be expected to return here in post. Rome, 18 Jan. 1539.
	Latin.
18 Jan. Royal MS. 18 B. VI. 50 b. B. M.	90. [JAMES V. to PAUL III.]
	Requests him to order the speedy termination of a suit concerning the right of patronage of the prebend of Strabrok, now before the auditors of the Palace. Edinburgh, 18 Jan. 1538.
	Lat. Copy, p. 1.
18 Jan. Royal MS. 18 B. VI. 50 b. B. M	91. JAMES V. to the AUDITORS of the APOSTOLIC PALACE.
	Requests them to decide the cause between John Leiche and George Dure concerning the canonry and prebend of Strabrok. There was a previous dispute about the case between the lords of Innerugy and Berryndaill, and a decision was given at Rome in favour of the former. Leiche was presented, on the death of James Dingwell, by Wm. Earl Marshal, whom James has appointed guardian of the heir of Innerugy, and the fact that George Dure is favoured by the ordinary, whose nephew he is, should not hinder justice. Edinburgh, 18 Jan. 1538.
	Lat. Copy, p. 1.
19 Jan. Harl. MS. 282 f. 43. B. M. Nott's Wyatt, 504.	92. HENRY VIII. to WYATT.
	By his letters in cipher, sent by Tarbes' post, and his other letters of the 2nd inst., by Nicholas, the courier, perceives the delays made there. After so hot a summer, saw never so cold a winter. As Wyatt has right prudently objected to them, they seek friends for their need and afterwards little regard them; which is far unlike to the good turns the King has shown them, not at his need but at theirs. Between the Emperor and his two councillors (fn. 6) (the junction whereof "is but a cold frost,") is referred to two uncertain contingents, the one, declared by the Emperor to Wyatt, duke Frederic's advice on coming to Spain; the other, written by the Emperor to the lady Regent (as the chancellor of her Court tells the King's ambassadors there), that, touching the King's marriage with the Duchess, duke Frederic shall shortly bring from Spain the Emperor's resolution. As one party is in Flanders, and the King's ambassadors have been there 16 weeks, and the Emperor, of his own accord, offered to send ample instructions to the lady Regent, and the King will not treat of one matter in two places so far distant, Wyatt must request him to send the instructions according to his promise (which he has repeatedly affirmed to have sent, but which the lady Regent denies having received). The lady Regent in all points says she must await further instructions; but a matter like the King's marriage will not admit of delay, and his nobles and estates are pressing him to marry, "they care not greatly where," so that he may have increase of issue. The Emperor is to be urged to send the instructions forthwith, or else to give a flat denial, "rather than so knitting one delay to the tail of another to keep us longer in balance and suspense" and give occasion to say that, after making the offers, he only delays or denies them, a thing very unworthy of the Imperial estate "in which he is collocate." If there be any talk of aid for the recovery of Gueldres, Wyatt shall refer the matter to the conferences in Flanders, saying he has no instructions.
	Touching Camerino, upon which Wyatt so much harps that opportunity should be taken to do things, no opportunity shall be neglected, and Wyatt may tell the Duke's secretary that, knowing so well the King's inclination towards that family, and the bishop of Rome's ambition, cruelty, and usurpations, the King will doubtless (on being shown the justice of the Duke's cause) regard the honour of God, the support of princes, and the amity he has ever borne to that family. Wyatt must, as of himself, advise that the Duke send a man to the King without delay.
	"As for those barking preachers there, slanderously defaming us in so celebre a place, which rather ought to be called false prophets and sheep-cloaked wolves," we pray you to continue your objections to their unreasonable answers, as you have hitherto done, "much to our contentment"; seeing that lately, at Raims (?), a Grey Friar, for so slandering us, was forced in plain pulpit to recant and declare that he had belied us and our nation, and then reserved in prison for further punishment.
	Begs him to take patiently that his return in March next is deferred until April, when another shall replace him. Meanwhile he must diligently write his proceedings with the news of Italy, the Emperor's voyage, and the French practices with him.
	This day it is reported from Rome that the English ambassador in Spain has made large promises to the duke of Urbyn's secretary. Thinks they must have bruited this for their own advantage, knowing that Wyatt is too discreet to offer largely without the King's pleasure, but writes this that he may beware how he speaks; for though the King would gladly help the truth and right of princes, especially against the "enemy of princes," he would be loath to be called a cherisher of dissension in Christendom, unless compelled thereto by the enemies of God and of princes. Westm., 19 Jan. 30 Hen. VIII. Signed at the head.
	Pp. 6. Add. Endd.: "By Francis, at Tolledo," 19 Jan.
19 Jan. Harl. MS. 282 f. 160. B. M. Nott's Wyatt, 344.	93. CROMWELL to WYATT.
	Has received his letters by the bearer, Nicholas, and set forth his suit to return in March next, but it is deferred until April, as the King's letters will show, who takes Wyatt's diligence in good part. Advises him to be patient and to send word what money he will need, for after having sent him out and kept him well furnished it would not be to the King's honour to let him return needy. Blames him for being, in his frankness, too free in lending his money, as lately he lent 200 ducats to Mr. Hobby, who should have had no need of it, being well furnished at his departure hence. He must solicit the Emperor's answer to the tenor of the King's letters as soon as possible. London, 19 Jan. 1538.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.
19 Jan. R. O.	94. JOHN HUSEE to LORD LISLE.
	I have delivered your letter to my lord Privy Seal, who was pleased with the contents and has promised shortly your commission for the house of friars at Calais. I have no doubt it will come. Mr. Polsted deserves thanks in that behalf, a gentle letter to him would not hurt. I trust now, having my lord's letter, that Mr. Pope will be better to me. "In a day or two the mourning of his wife will be well slacked. He hath a great cause to mourn, but no great losses, as the bruit goeth it is 4,000l. in his right way." The third clerk of the Kitchen is not come to Court, but when he does come I trust the caitiff, his man, shall be forthcoming, or else I will make him repent it. It shall lack no setting forward, so that others shall take heed how to use their tongues against noblemen hereafter. I delivered your letters to Mr. Avery and Mr. Harvey. Mr. Avery says Mr. Bassett's suit shall be sped, and Mr. Harvey will give but 20l. For Ringsashe, he spoke again to the King, and his Grace is content that you continue in your receipts and Mr. Harvey in payments. If you will not have the warrant spoken of I will never move it, yet are there many casualties. Mr. Lister is not yet come. Now I will be in hand with Mr. Acton and Mr. Smythe for the assurance of your rent during life. I will prepare a little barrel of eels for you as shortly as I can. I trust ere this term pass to achieve all your affairs. London, 19 Jan.
	"This day my lord Admiral was at the Court and divers other of the nobles. The King's majesty maketh unto them this night a great banquet."
	Hol., pp. 2. Add: Deputy of Calais.
19 Jan. R. O.	95. BP. ROLAND LEE and SIR W. SULYARD to CROMWELL.
	In favour of the town of Shrewsbury, touching their fee farm, wherein they have heretofore made suit to Cromwell. Shrowesbury, 19 Jan. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Cromwell, lord Privy Seal. Sealed. Endd.
19 Jan. R. O. Rymer XIV. 623.	96. RICHMOND, GREY FRIARS.
	Surrender of the house and all its possessions in England and the marches thereof or elsewhere. 19 Jan. 30 Hen. VIII. Signed by Robt. Sanderson, doctor [warden there], and 13 priests, and one underscribed. [See Deputy Keeper's Eighth Report, App. II., 38].
	Good seal.
	Enrolled [Close Roll, p. 5, No. 65] without mem. of acknowledgment.
19 Jan. Vatican MS.	97. CARD. FARNESE to the CARD. OF BRINDISI.
	The Dukes of Bavaria have sent word by one Mr. George, their secretary, of great preparations on the part of the Lutherans, which seem rather calculated for an attack on others than for self-defence. The Dukes are determined to resist the Landgrave or any other; and ask aid of the Pope, who refers the matter to Card. Brindisi to answer. The movement may be fomented by the King of England because of the just action now taken against him (i.e., the bull and the sending of Card. Pole to Spain) and Brindisi is to look to it because the Pope is occupied with his preparations against the Turks. * * * Rome 19 Jan. 1539.
	Italian. Add.: Legate. From a modern extract in R. O., pp. 2.
19 Jan. Add. MS. 28, 591 f. 14. B. M.	98. AGUILAR to CHARLES V.
	Arrival of Prince Doria, on the 16th, who related to the Pope the operations of the united fleets to the time of his leaving Castelnuovo, &c. In the offensive enterprise of this year the Pope said two things were to be considered, i.e. (1) whether it were desirable that the Emperor should go in person and whether his preparations were sufficiently advanced; (2), whether the Emperor were secure against dangers within such as this truce or peace with France, the matter of the Lutherans and the King of England, who, for his errors and cruelties, might be considered as great an enemy as the Turk, and who, finding that he could not cause jealousy between the Emperor and Francis with his double dealings and that they understood him, and fearing the necessity in which he will be placed when deprived of commerce, has taken to ally himself with the said Lutherans and to unite the two sects; for already in England they have taken away the sacrament and admit the Lutheran errors, and it is thought that the King assists the Lutheraus, with the money he robs from the churches and monasteries, for the disturbances which are commencing in Germany. The Pope said he mentioned these things not to put difficulties in the way of the enterprise, but that the whole matter might be carefully considered.
	Answer of Prince Doria to this (dealing with the expenses of the enterprise). Prince Doria leaves tomorrow for Genoa. On the 16th the Duke of Urbino delivered Camarino to the Pope. Anxious to hear that the mutiny of the soldiers of Sicily is quieted. The proposed marriage (fn. 7) for Duke Cosmo. Rome, 19 Jan. 1539.
	Spanish. Modern copy from Simancas, pp. 13.
	See Spanish Calendar, Vol. VI. Part I. No. 37.
20 Jan. R. O. C.'s Letters 400.	99. CRANMER to CROMWELL.
	Sends by his servant Nevell, 20l., Cromwell's half year's fee. The Chancellor of the Augmentations has told Nevell that the King was content he should have some recompense for his farm of the parsonage of Bowghton. Asks Cromwell to help him about it. Forde, 20 Jan. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
20 Jan. R. O.	100. DR. WILLIAM PETRE to CROMWELL.
	Since the departure of Mr. Smyth, Mr. Tregonwell and Petre have received the surrender of the monastery of Lacok. The demesnes were all leased out. According to Cromwell's command, will examine the manner of granting before their departing, and leave the house with Mr. Sharington. In all things they will observe Cromwell's letters. Lacok, 20 Jan.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
20 Jan. R. O.	101. JOHN TAVERNOR to CROMWELL.
	The priors and their brethren of the friars Dominicans, White and Austens, have piteously lamented to me their poverty, knowing not how to live till their houses be surrendered. For why? The devotion of the people is clean gone, their plate and implements sold; so they have nothing left but the lead which (if I had not forbid it) they would have plucked down and sold too. I bade them come to me when they lacked anything. I beg to know, by my servant, what to do. Boston, 20 Jan.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
20 Jan. R. O.	102. THE BAILIFFS AND ALDERMEN OF WORCESTER to CROMWELL.
	Thank him for his assistance concerning the Friars' houses. They are set in two barren sides, where is no defence but the said houses joined to the walls. Ask him to obtain them for the city after such sort as it shall please the King to part with them, that they may employ them for the maintenance of the walls and the bridge, which is in ruin and needs daily repairs by reason of the course of the water. Worcester, 20 Jan. 30 Hen. VIII.
	Hol., p. 1. Add: Lord Privy Seal. Sealed. Endd.
	103. CHRISTOPHER MONT.
R. O.	Instructions given by the King to Chr. Mo[unt].
	First, the said Christopher, taking with him the King's letters and the writings prepared for his despatch, shall with speed repair to the duke of Saxony wherever he shall be. There he shall first enquire for Burgartus, the vice-chancellor, to learn the news and get access to the Duke. If Burgartus is absent, then he shall apply to some other minister of his acquaintance. Access obtained, he shall present the King's letters credential, and say the King thanks the Duke and his kinsman, the landgrave of Hesse, for their letters concerning the detestable sect of the Anabaptists, although his Highness had already by his laws condemned such leaders of that faction as could be apprehended and had banished the rest by proclamation. His Majesty marvels that since the Duke's orators went from hence with favourable weather and were soon home, he has had no answer upon the communications had with them here. Moreover, it is said that the Duke intends to alter certain leagues and that the Emperor has said he trusts the princes of Germany will be conformable to the rest of Christendom; the King wishes to know the Duke's mind upon the matters reported by his orators and also upon this. Further, the said Christopher is to find out the inclination which both dukes of Cleves, father and son, bear to the bishop of Rome; he shall also enquire, in case they are still of the old popish fashion, whether they will be inclinable to alter their opinions. If the Duke and the Landgrave are together the said Christopher is to address himself to both; if not, he shall go first to the Duke and then to the Landgrave. He shall solicit the sending of the notable legation spoken of at the said Duke's orators' last being here. Signed at the head by the King.
	Pp. 4. Endd.: Chr. Mount's instructions.
Vit. B. XXI., f. 159. B. M.	2. "A memorial of instruct[ions given by] the lord Cromwell, lo[rd Privy Seal, to his] friend Christopher Mount."
	Whereas the King at this time sends Mount to the duke of Saxony and the Landgrave for certain affairs, the said Mount shall take occasion to confer with Franciscus Burgartus, the Duke's vice-cha[ncellor], and late his orator here in England, deliver Cromwell's commendations and letters and remind him of their conversation in England concerning a marriage between the young duke of Clev[es] and the lady Mary. The Duke, his master, as he has written to Cromwell, is desirous to set forth the matter at his next meeting. Cromwell has therefore suggested the matter to the King, who seemed by his visage to approve of it, and answered that for the duke of Saxony he would do much, but would make no answer until requisition was made by the parties. If Burgartus desire the "picture of her face," and say he wrote for it, Mount shall remind him that she is a King's daughter and that it was never seen that the pictures of persons of such degree were sent abroad. Burgartus, too, has seen her and can testify of her proportion, countenance, and beauty, and though she is only the King's natural daughter she is endued, as all the world knows, with such beauty, learning, and virtues, that when the rest is agreed, no man would stick for any part concerning her beauty and goodness.
	Further, Mount shall diligently enquire of the beauty and qualities of the eldest of the two daughters of the duke of Cleves, her shape, stature, and complexion, and, if he hear she is such "as might be likened unto his Majesty," he shall tell Burgartus that Cromwell, tendering the King's alliance in Germany, would be glad to induce the King to join with them, specially for the duke of Saxony's sake, who is allied there (with the Cleves family), and to make a cross marriage between the young duke of Cleves and lady Mary, and the King and the elder daughter of Cleves; for as yet he knows of no conclusion in any of the overtures of marriage made to his Grace in France or Flanders. First it is expedient that they should send her picture hither. Mount is not to speak as if demanding her, but rather to give them a prick to offer her. Signed: "Thomas Cromwell."
	Pp. 3.

• ‹ previous
• Table of contents
• next ›