Henry VIII: January 1543, 6-10 | British History Online

Pages 7-21

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 18 Part 1, January-July 1543. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1901.

Citation:

January 1543, 6-10



6 Jan. Dasent's A. P. C. 72.	15. The Privy Council. Meeting at Hampton Court, 6 Jan. Present : Canterbury, Privy Seal, Hertford, Great Chamberlain, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Riche. Business :— Letter written to Sir Ric. Sowthwell, who, two days before, departed to conduct Bothewell to Darneton, to stay there the other lords of Scotland for one day, as the King would send matter to be communicated to them; which should be received by Wednesday, their assembly being appointed for Tuesday. Letters written to Wm. Smith and Thos. Cupper to bring their books of the collection of the subsidy next morning.
6 Jan. Add. MS. 32, 649, f. 23. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 274.	16. James Earl Of Arran to Henry VIII. Although the Council of this realm has already advertised him of the decease of his "tender nephew" and desired safeconduct for ambassadors and abstinence for certain months, Arran thinks it his duty to send bearer, Rothesay herald, to desire the said safeconduct and abstinence, if not already granted, and to signify that none living is more desirous to see peace and rest between Henry and his proniece and their realms; not doubting but that he will regard the "tenderness of blood" between them and "hir tendir aige and innocence quha can nocht offend na creature." At our sovereign lady's palace of Halierote, 6 Jan. 1542. Signed : James Gowernour. Broadsheet, p. 1. Add. Endd.
7 Jan. Dasent's A. P. C. 73.	17. The Privy Council. Meeting at Hampton Court, 7 Jan. Present : Canterbury, Privy Seal, Great Chamberlain, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Cheyney, Browne, Wriothesley, Riche. Business :—Letter written to Lisle to set forth four of the tallest ships of Newcastle; also a letter to the mayor of Newcastle. Letter written to Southwell to deliver lord Oliphaunt 12 cramp rings of gold and 24 of silver sent him by the King. Letter sent to Wharton to leave Carlisle in safe custody in case of his going into Scotland.
8 Jan. Dasent's A. P. C. 73.	18. The Privy Council. Meeting at Hampton Court, 8 Jan. Present : Privy Seal, Westminster, St. John, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wriothesley. Business :—Ric. Cavendisshe, comptroller at Dover, having, the day before, alleged matters against Sir Thos. Cheyney, treasurer of the Household and lord warden of the V. Ports, could not prove his allegations, asked forgiveness and was commanded to repair to his charge. On complaint by Jerome Michelli, merchant of Venice, of an unlawful demand of custom by the customer and comptroller of Rye, a letter was written to them to redubbe their misdemeanour.
8 Jan. Add. MS. 32, 649, f. 24. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 275.	19. Henry VIII. to Lisle. Informs him that he is appointed High Admiral of England, upon the advancement of the earl of Hertford to the Great Chamberlainship, and that the commission will shortly be made and sent to him; but, as he is there in service where affairs are at present of very high consequence, the King has, to supply his place, appointed Sir Francis Bryan, of the Privy Chamber, to be vice-admiral, who has been vice-admiral before and is experienced in sea matters. Touching "our great affair of Scotland"; understanding by Lisle's letters of the 1st inst. to the Council, that the Scottish ships have done some damage, and being certified that the Scots have at Camfer divers richly laden ships which will be ready to depart homewards within 6 or 7 days, intends to provide for defence of his subjects and also to meet with some of those ships at Camfer. This is the easier as all the good ships of Scotland are now hovering for the English Burdeaulx fleet. The said Vice-admiral shall, as soon as ten ships may be prepared, repair with them to the Frithe, for the purposes aforesaid and to keep the ships of Scotland from trade; and because but six ships are now ready (which as Lisle knows are now abroad on the seas), he is to order them to keep the seas there and take up four of the tallest ships at Newcastle and furnish them, with all possible diligence, to join the other six at the coming of the Vice-Admiral. Has appointed to send him 7,000l.; and, that the mayor and others of Newcastle may be more ready to prepare victual for the ships, the Council has written carnestly to them. Requires him to use all speed, since this affair of Scotland stands in such terms that, without diligent preparation both for sea and land, it "may turn to our great displeasure and incommodity." Has advertised him how the noblemen and others of Scotland, prisoners, were dismissed and what they promised, and has since learnt, by Lisle's letters to the Council and otherwise, that Arren would, by the three estates of Scotland, be ordained protector and governor in the minority of Henry's proniece and, in case of her decease, would be king. If so he doubts how the prisoners can without help keep their promise for getting into his hands of the child, the Cardinal and others who let his purpose, and the principal holds of Scotland. Has therefore sent a special instruction (copy enclosed) to Sir Ric. Southwell, one of the General Surveyors (appointed to accompany Bothewel to Darnton) to debate with the noblemen of Scotland what is to be done. Lisle must put the 2,000 horsemen for the East and Middle Marches ready, at 48 hours' warning, to enter Scotland with the earl of Anguishe and others, if necessary, and Southwell shall signify the resolution taken. If they go, lord Nevel shall be associate with Anguishe, and Sir Wm. Evre, captain of Berwick, shall go with them, Lisle appointing someone to keep Berwick Castle. Has written special letters to Evre, Sir Ric. Maners, Sir Ralph Evre and Brian Layton, captain of Norham, to be councillors to Anguishe and Nevel in the enterprise and the guiding of the band of the East and Middle Marches, which is to be furnished of the garrison and country, leaving the 500 of Lisle's own band for his own furniture. Upon the order taken by Southwell and the others he shall provide for victualling of the 2,000 men. The 2,000 to be prepared in the West Borders the earl of Cumberland and Sir Thos. Wharton are appointed to lead. Draft with corrections, in wriothesley's hand, pp. 17. Endd. : Mynute to the Viscount Lisle, viij^o January a^o xxxiiij^o.
Ib. f. 34.	2. Fair copy of the preceding. Pp. 13. Endd.
8 Jan. R. O. [R. T., 148. f. 158.]	20. Henry VIII. to Albert Duke Of Prussia. Thanks for his letters and present of falcons. Takes pleasure in hawking as a recreation when wearied with public affairs. Promises the favour to his subjects for which the Duke writes. Hampton Court, 8 Jan. 1542. countersigned : Petrus Vannes. Lat. Modern transcript from Königsberg, pp. 2. Headed : Illustrissimo, &c., Alberto Marchioni Brandenburgensi in Prussia, &c., Duci, &c. (full title given).
8 Jan. R. O.	21. H. Lord Maltravers to the Council. Did not receive their letters of the 1st until the 4th inst. at night; when he immediately despatched a post with letters to his espials about New Haven and Dieppe, from whom he has received the intelligence enclosed. Within six hours after, the enclosed letter was brought by the parties to whom it was sent. Calais, 8 Jan. 1542. P.S. in his own hand :—Thought good to send the enclosed letter, being sorry that these poor men, who have been good victuallers to this town, have had this evil chance and we not able to help them. Signed. P. 1. Add. Endd. : a^o xxxiiij^o.
Add. MS. 32, 649, f. 49. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 276.	22. Sir Richard Southwell's Mission. The "said" Sir Ric. Southwell shall understand that the Scots prisoners, when here, subscribed an article (copy herewith) requiring the King to take into his hands the young daughter of Scotland and the whole realm, with promise to serve him to that intent. The earl Bothwell has likewise subscribed that article, which is taken among the prisoners as an open matter openly to be avowed as tending to the wealth of all Scotland. Ten of the prisoners, viz., Cassells, Glenkerne, Maxwell, Flemyng, Somervile, Grey, Robert Erskyn, Oliver St. Clere, Cragge and Kerse, also subscribed an article (copy herewith) that, in case of the daughter's death, if the King will take the Crown of Scotland they will serve him in that behalf. This is a secret article to these ten, not opened to Bothwell or others; for although Bothwell promised more largely it was not spoken of to him so as not to impair the secrecy (as Southwell shall show them) and because it is feared he is addict to Arren. Of these ten, Maxwell has shown most frankness, and after him Glenkerne and Somervile. Lord Flemyng spoke well and "is a wise man," and Cassells made an earnest promise, and lord Graye, Erskyn, Oliver St. Clere and Cragge "have dedicate their service without exception." Anguishe should not be doubted; but, to show the rest that he is of their determination, he should subscribe the articles. Doubtless Bothwell has declared his disposition to Southwell (fn. 1), who, with the above information, is to note well their communications, &c. The prisoners decided here, after communing with Anguishe at Darnton and giving hostages to Wharton for their return on Palm Sunday at furthest, to repair together to Edinburgh, with force sufficient to withstand such as take upon themselves the government, and there profess their opinion according to the open article for delivery of the daughter to the King's hands; and practise to allure men to the King's devotion and to get him the strongholds (besides St. Clere's promise to deliver Tentallon castle to Anguish "and feats promised apart by Cragge"), and then some of them to return and report the state of affairs. Thereupon they were rewarded with princely liberality and dismissed. The foregoing is for Southwell's own instruction. Yesterday arrived letters from the Warden of the Marches and Wharton, advertising that the estates of Scotland assembled at Edinburgh on Wednesday last and agreed to make Arren protector and take him for king if the daughter, "which they now called princess," should die, and also communed of a marriage between Arren's son and her. This, even if not wholly true, indicates a unity in Scotland against the King's purpose and "to the damage of those men that should now enter." Southwell is therefore to signify it to them, and devise with them concerning their entry and how the King's aid to them should be employed and victualled; consulting with all or with such as Anguishe, Maxwell, and Glankerne think best, as follows :— The King greets them, and has conceived such an opinion of their devotion that he takes them, as noblemen, for his own and means to help them with advice and with force when needed; and he informs them of fresh news from Scotland of the erection of Arren as Protector. Here Southwell may read the copy of the advertisements herewith; and shall then say that albeit this may appear greater than it is, "Arren being but a sober man in goods and wits" to support that room, and the Cardinal and he at discord, yet it were wise to consult upon the fashion of this their entry into Scotland, whether together or separately, remembering that their adversaries will "search their advantage of them" when they are dissevered. For their order after their entry, and at Edinburgh, Southwell shall say that it shall be necessary to appoint presently, in articles, some rule whereby to withstand the knot made against them in Scotland (which although but a slipping knot is to be undone both by practices and by force) and make a sure knot amongst themselves; persuading them to make this in writing in his presence and demanding a copy. Their opinion is to be taken whether two of them should repair first to Edinburgh to the Council, with the King's letters, and certify the rest, who might then either come and suddenly put down the government or take measures to apprehend the Cardinal or the Protector and get possession of the young child and the fortresses for the King, or else, seeing the adversaries too powerful, send for the King's aid (which shall be 2,000 horsemen of the East and Middle Marches and 2,000 of the West) to enter with them. The King has ordered these horsemen to be ready and they (the prisoners) must foresee what victual they and their friends can provide, and at what price, and how many days' victuals the horsemen shall bring. Southwell shall show the necessity of friendship between their men and the Englishmen who come to their relief, and shall advise that some Englishman should secretly enter with them to view the state of victuals; and he shall enquire to what place the King's aid should resort. He shall take their several opinions in writing, so that he may advertise the King, and also the lord Warden and Wharton. Southwell shall commune with Anguishe and Maxwell, apart, of Doon Lanrik, in whom Anguish seems to trust; showing the latter the copy (herewith) of Doon Lanrik's letters, with advice not to trust him over far, considering how, when in England, he was so earnest to become the King's subject and now writes so coldly. He shall devise with Bothwell to remind Arren how the Cardinal's proceedings tend for France; that he may take heed lest the French king, favouring the title of the earl of Lynoulx, under pretence of maintaining the daughter, put him (Arren) to displeasure; and so move him to seek the King's favour in time. Also he shall learn Oliver St. Clere's intention concerning Tentallon castle, which is now in keeping of a servant of the earl of Argile. He must remember "that the nature of the Scottes is full of jealousy and envy" and therefore, although ordered to take the advice of Anguishe, Glenkerne and Maxwell, he must give no occasion to any to take offence at the preference of another. Copy, pp. 12. Endd. : "Sir Richard Southwelles second instructions."
Add. MS. 32, 649, f. 58. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 276 (2).	2. "Th'articles whereunto all the lords and others of Scotlande have subscribed, which we call the open article, and likewise th'earl Bothewel." (1) If our master the King of Scotland be deceased, having only one daughter alive, we beseech his Majesty (Henry VIII.) to take the keeping of her to be married to my lord Prince, his son, and thereby to unite both realms, whereunto we will aid "to our powers." (2) Upon our arrival in Scotland we will advertise the lord warden of the Borders of the state of Scotland and what is to be done, and what we find ourselves able to do. (3) Where each of us is to lay one hostage, the hostages shall be bound jointly and severally for all of us; and if a hostage die he shall be replaced within 20 days. (4) All of us will, at Palm Sunday next, return and present ourselves prisoners to the King's warden on the Borders; and meanwhile will repair to the King or warden if required. Draft in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 2.
Add. MS. 32, 649, f. 59. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 276 (3).	3. "The copy of the secret article whereunto the ten only named in th' instructions have subscribed." Where it was proponed to us by the King and his Council "that if the said Daughter were deceased what we thought then most necessary to be done for the wealth of the realm of Scotland?" To that we answer that, if the King will take the rule, we, now his prisoners, will, when at liberty in Scotland, serve him in that purpose to the uttermost. Copy, p. 1. Headed by Wriothesley, as above.
Add. MS. 32, 649, f. 60. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 276 (4).	4. "The copy of th' article sent to Mr. Southwel to be subscribed by th' Earl of Anguishe." Where I have been advertised that the King of Scots is deceased, leaving a daughter, I beseech the King to take the keeping of her, to be married to my lord Prince, his son, and thereby to unite both realms; whereunto I will aid "to the uttermost of my power according to my bounden duty." And whether the said daughter come to the King's hands or not, or shall die "or otherwise be employd," I think it shall be for the wealth of Scotland if the King will take the rule there; whereunto (fn. 2) I shall also serve "to the uttermost of my power according to my most bounden duty." Draft with corrections in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 3. Endd. as above.
Ib. f. 62.	5. Fair copy of the preceding, headed by Wriothesley "A copy of the articles which th'earl of Anguishe must subscribe, which he may keep to himself, for so much as it varieth in some words from th'others, because the King's Majesty taketh him as his true servant." With marginal note by Wriothesley at the beginning of the second article, "Here may begin the second article when you shall write them apart. And yet I am of th'opinion that it shall be better to declare what he hath done in either case than to show the writing, because of the difference of words in the same." P. 1. Endd. : "The copye of the open and secret articles whereunto the lords of Scotland hat[h] setto ther handes; to be redelyveryd unto Mr. Secretarye."
9 Jan. Add. MS. 32, 649, f. 66. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 278.	23. Henry VIII. to Sir Ric. Southwell. In other instructions lately sent, required that the lords of Scotland and his servants sent to aid them should get into his hands the chief fortresses of Scotland. Commands him to signify to them his opinion that, if they by policy obtain such holds, they should consult his councillors and captains who "shall percace upon this consultation enter with them" as to the appointment of keepers, and shall see them well furnished and victualled for three or four months; and his captains and subjects shall be warned not to refuse such charges. Reflecting that he stays his sword upon the Borders upon no other surety but their word, thinks that, to restrain the Borderers (especially those dedicate to the Cardinal, to whom he hears that the Humes of the Mershe are lately become servants), proclamation should be made that all Borderers who shall within 15 days (altered from 20 days) come to the King's warden and make like promise "for the keeping of the Child and government of Scotland" as in the "first article" whereunto all subscribed (fn. 3) shall be reputed the King's friends and live in surety, while those who will not so come in shall be reputed enemies. This would win and stay many who might otherwise draw to some other party or make attemptates. This, upon their resolution, Southwell shall signify to the Warden of the Marches and Wharton, sending them copies of these letters. There is a gentleman of Scotland yet in France, called the sheriff of Ayre, whom Bothwell can easily train to the King's devotion. Bothwell is to be required to write him an "effectual letter" to repair to the King, and send the letter hither to be forwarded. Draft with last paragraph in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 10. Endd. : "Mynute to Sir Richard Southwel, ix^o Jan. a^o xxxiiij^o"
9 Jan. Dasent's A. P. C. 74.	24. The Privy Council. Meeting at Hampton Court, 9 Jan. Present : Privy Seal, Hertford, St. John, Cheyney, Browne, Wriothesley, Riche. Business :—Smith and Cupper, charged with receiving sums of the lords for the subsidy without declaring them, appeared again, and Smith was ordered to the Fleet, and Cupper discharged. Commissions stamped for Thos. Broke, being appointed captain of the Swepestake, to take up men and victuals; to Wm. Horsewell, mayor of Plymouth,—Amadas, customer there,—Buller, and— Barth, captain of the Trinity Harry, to take up men and victuals for two ships of Plymouth; and to — Muffet to take up men and victuals at Bristow. Letter sent to Wm. Horssewell, John Amadas and — Buller to bestow 160 of the men they take up in the Trinity Harry and 100 in the George Bonacenture and send hither 40 other mariners to John Piers. *** The next entry is 16 Jan.
9 Jan. R. O. St. P., v. 242.	25. Henry VIII. to Lisle. Considering how he stays his sword upon the Borders and yet is not assured of the Borderers of Scotland, will have proclamation made that whatsoever Borderer will come in to Lisle within 15 days (altered from 20 days), and promise and subscribe to "the first article, concerning the getting of the child into our hands and the government of that realm," and promise not to offend Englishmen, shall be taken as the King's friend, and all others as enemies. Has written to Sir Ric. Southwell to feel the opinions of the Scottish lords now at Darneton in this; and, upon Southwell's advertisement that they approve it, Lisle shall make such a proclation forthwith on all the Borders, so as to know who will conform to it. Although the former letters and instructions to Southwell, Lisle and Wharton specify that the present enterprise is, after consultation with "them at Darneton," to get the Child, Cardinal and other "letters" of the King's purpose into the King's hands, with the fortresses, no mention is made to whom the fortresses shall be delivered. Has written to Southwell to signify his pleasure to the lords at Darneton and advertise Lisle of the whole; and requires that, in case the 4,000 enter, their captains shall, without seeming to mistrust the Scots, "bend as much as they may" that the fortresses may be appointed to Englishmen (and, before leaving, see that they are strongly furnished), and shall also send daily advertisements of their proceedings. Perceives by his last letters that Cokburn has escaped out of Carlisle, and has commissioned Wharton to enquire into the matter. Lisle must see if he can be won to the King's devotion. Encloses a letter (and copy of the same) to Sir Wm. Evers, touching the keeping of Berwik Castle in case he enters into Scotland, to be delivered if the case require. Draft in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 7. Endd. : Mynute to the Viscount Lisle, ix^o Januarii a^o xxxiiij^o.
9 Jan. R. O. St. P., v. 235.	26. Lisle and Durham to Henry VIII. Wm. Leche and John Priestman, murderers of the herald, are delivered to "me, your Grace's warden" and shall be sent up. Rossay herald of Scotland came with them, and brought their examinations (sent herewith) testified by Thos. Balandyne, the chief justice clerk. Examined the prisoners apart, showing them how unlikely it was that in a strange country they should do such an abominable deed, and so forfeit their refuge, unless comforted thereto. Priestman answered as in the writing herewith; but Leche, confessing his fault and appealing for mercy, would go no further than his confession made in Scotland written by him and signed by them both. The third person was a boy that went with them to bring back their hired horses, who, when he saw them committing the murder, took his master's horses and rode away. The two then took the horses of Somersett herald and his man and pursued Henry Raie, who only escaped through their delay in chasing the horses. Somersett's servant is sent to Lisle, by a pursuivant, from Arran, with a gift of 20 cr. to bring him home; and he now comes up to London. John Heron's chaplain, sent into Scotland for answer of Arran's letters touching delivery of the murderers, returned to Berwick with them, and says that, when he delivered his letter, Arran bade him not resort to the Cardinal but to the Chancellor, the bp. of Glascoo. He says that the Cardinal rides daily to the palace where Arran lies; and that Arran is "a good soft God's man and loveth well to look on the Scripture," but many of his kin that rule about him are "shrewes and evill men." Also that one day when going up the stairs to the Council a gentleman of the Cardinal, called the captain of Londye, tried to stop him, and was for that dismissed out of the Cardinal's service. Mr. John Bruce, a gentleman of the Earl of Huntley, told him that Huntley would not come; "saying that whosoever were made king of the South he would be king of the North." Last night he lay here in the same house as Rossay herald, who was in great fear and thought that the Cardinal would, within eight days after the King was buried, steal out of Scotland (and thereupon the writers have written to Mr. Stanhope and the Vice-admiral to keep the sea). He reports that Scotsmen say that if Angus will take their part against England he shall have all his lands restored, but, unless he give his bond for this, they fear to restore his house, lest he should bring in Englishmen to subdue Scotland. Lisle wrote as the King directed to the lord President for 233l. 6s. 8d. for Angus and 66l. 13s. 4d. for Sir George Douglas. The President's answer, enclosed, is that he is unfurnished with money. The said priest showed also that the King of Scots should be buried at Halirode house tomorrow. Alnwik, 9 Jan. Signed. Pp. 4.
R. O.	2. At Edinburgh, "ye ferde day of Januarii" 1542, before Archibald earl of Ergile, lord Campbell and Great Justice of Scotland, Wm. Leche, and John Priestman, Englishmen, examined of their slaughter of Thomas Symmersyd, herald to the King of England, beside Dunbar in his return towards England, freely declared that they two slew him without the "rede or counsall, help, supple or menteinance" of any other person, and they did it "for displeasure of the King of England." Signed (as an extract from the Court book) : Thomas Bellenden. P. 1. Endd. : "The copy of th' examination of the murderers before the lords of Scotland in the Tolle Bowthe at Edynborro signed with the hand of Thomas Bellendyn, justice clerk there."
R. O.	3. John Prestmane to Sir Richard Maners. Expresses regret that, through ignorance, and in general commotion, he conspired against the King and so deserves death, and also that he committed the cruel death of the herald Somersyd, who represented the King's own person, and so is unworthy to come to the King's presence; but he trusts that "your mastership," being in high favor with the King, will intercede for him, and mercy shown by the King "salbe on speciall caws to qwnche throw many nacions an gret defaym, and augment his heghe honor." Where your mastership requires the truth of this foul crime, I would gladly first declare it to the King, but will express briefly some part thereof. We fled into Scotland and were accepted with King James, who commanded us to remain in the abbey of Newbattell and of Cowpere. We were ever suing for some living or else licence to pass to other countries, but were put off from day to day in great indigence, "and commandyt to reman styll; insomekyll y^t y^e lord Secret^r sayd to William Leich that he schuld not be delyverd and war (i.e. if it were) y^t he had slan y^e Kyng of Inglandes awn person; and at Lawd^r raid we war in y^e Kynges army qwen y^e ost skallyd." P. 1. Endd. : "A beginning of a supplication made by John Prestmane to Sir Richard Maners the first night after he was delivered, written at Barwik with his own [hand]?"
R. O. St. P., v. 236.	4. Confession of John Preistman before Viscount Lisle, lord warden of all the Marches foranempst Scotland, the bp. of Duresme, Sir Richard Manners and Sir Ralph Evre at the King's castle of Alnwik, 8 Jan. 34 Hen. VIII. Asked what should move them to kill the herald rather than Ray or any other Englishman, he answers that they had no matter propensed to Somersett, but determined to kill the first of the three they could lay hands on. The cause was that, after the army of Scotland was "skaled," they perceived themselves in less favour with the King and Lords and concluded that to do some cruel or mischievous deed to Englishmen would bring them in credit again; so they went to the King, and Leche said there were certain Englishmen in Edinburgh who, he thought, were spies and should not go unpunished. The King made no answer "but looked towards them and with his hand made a certain sign, whereupon they gathered that he forced not though they had a shrewd turn." After that they went to the King's secretary, Mr. Erskyne, and sued to have some living or be put to some service, or have leave to seek the wars in some other country, for they were sure that when this war ceased they should be delivered to the King of England. Erskyne answered that they should have no such fear, for, if they had killed the King of England, they should not be delivered, and they should shortly have wages by the Cardinal's command. They went then to the Cardinal and desired favour. The Cardinal said that they had been long succoured in Scotland and should now do some service, and asked what they could do and what friends they could make, "and said that he had authority from the Holy Father the Pope to interdict the realm of England, and that the same should be published within certain churches in England ere it were long." Shortly after the Cardinal sent for Leche into the Council, but deponent was not sent for. Then, hearing of the going home of Somerset and the other Englishmen, and being kept in poverty, they thought some cruel deed was expected of them; and so concluded this slaughter, which they thought to do within the "bound rode" of Barwick, but, as their horses began to fail, they were constrained to do it sooner. No man asked or counselled them to do the deed, but "they might well perceive by their fashions that they would have such a thing done." Has had no succour out of England. The third man was a lad hired to run afoot and bring back their horses which were borrowed. Leche's brother was made privy to this, "but, when he perceived their intent was to murder, he refused to go with them." Leche's brother has always urged them to sue for the King's pardon. Examined what banished men he knew to be in Scotland, he says there is Wm. Woodmanson attendant on lord Hume, Dr. Hillyard in St. Andrews with a fee of the Cardinal, Friar Barton in Edinburgh, one Symson in Jedworthe and one Ric. Wilson in the abbey of Dere. Examined what succour they had in Scotland besides the King, he says none, "and saith that the nature of Scots is not to have their hands nor their purses open to any man, but full of envy and cruelty." The Scots make no preparation for war but will seek peace, knowing that they cannot resist the King. Of himself, he said he heard much speaking that Angus would come in, but that he should have no entry till he bound himself to take their part and leave England. Signed : John Lisle : Cuth. Duresme : Rychard Maners : Rauff Eure. Pp. 4.
R. O.	5. Declaration by Wm. Leche, of Hornecastell, and John Prestman, banished from England for taking part in "one general commotion for maintaining of Christ's Faith, Holy Church, honor of our native crown, realm, nobility and commonwealth," who had our brethren and friends "cruwelly distrowed and dishereced" and have lived six years in great indigence and dread. At this time of "sharp wars," seeing that our enemies sent in spies, "which are the chief key of victory," under colour of messengers, who were said to have "privy passengers" between them and Barwyke, &c., and also to carry treasonable letters, we thought both to revenge our old displeasures and take the said letters, and the men as prisoners of war. "And as they sex men were ry[dyn]g in compeney and we, but tway nakd men w^t ane suerde and ane fynger dart, raide by y^em and sawe y^em, w^towt coitt armore, bagges on his brest or saffe cundithe contrary to y^e lawe off armis, I y^e said William badde Somersede yelde hym, w^ch said he walde no^t , wherefore I maid at hym and he att me so y^t, w^t long pyngle w^t daggers, he was slane; and in y^s meane tyme y^e said John was besy w^t y^e yong man w^ch cryed Help Hary Rey, Helpe Hary Rey; w^ch Hary, for fere off takyng off his treasonable letters, fledde w^t spede off horsse, and sawe new^r mo men but we tway, w^ch afturower vincosse (?) we persewed y^er horsse w^ch had on wallett at his saddyll crutche. And when we come agane w^t y^e horsse they had ryped y^er purss and y^en we declared y^s for ow^r tway acte w^t out any art or part off any Scottes man or any others. And apon y^t we gaffe y^e forsaid yong man his lyfe and ransom to be oblyged and sworne trwly to declare y^e same, as David Beyth (?) can testifye." Then, taking their weapons and purse with 5 angels 4 crowns and 16d. English, we came to the sanctuary for safety. Signed. In Leche's hand, p. 1. Endd. : The confession, &c., "made in Scotland."
9 Jan. R. O. St. P., v. 239.	27. Lisle to Henry VIII. Has received his letter of the 5th, and written, and despatched by Henry Raie, a letter to Arren according to the minute received. Had already this day spoken with a pursuivant (fn. 4) of Scotland who was present at the slaughter of the herald, and was sent by Arren to show Lisle his knowledge therein. Remembering the message which Arren sent by John Heron's priest, asked the pursuivant, in conversation, where the young Princess was kept. He answered that she was in the Queen's own chamber. Asked what devices they had for a husband for her. He said that many wise men wished her to my lord Prince of England. He said Arren was "a great favourer of the Scripture and a man (as he thought) of a very good conscience," and had willed him (the pursuivant) to say to Lisle, "that look what service he could do to the King of England and it should be at his commandment." Thereupon, gave the pursuivant a message for Arren expressing hope that he would make humble petition to the King to take the young princess of Scotland and bestow her in marriage upon my lord Prince. This, the pursuivant thought, Arren would do as he was "a sober man and coveted no great things of the world." So Lisle dismissed him, bidding him tell Arren that, if he knew the King, "he would rather be his subject that to be King of all Scotland." On receipt of the King's letters, recalled the pursuivant, and decided to send Henry Raie (who was to have gone up with the Scottish herald (fn. 5) who now comes to the King) with his letters to Arren. The state of the Borders continues the same, and our neighbours of Scotland have done little harm since their King's death. Yesterday morning the lord of Bowcleugh's son entered England with 100 horse, but had no leisure to take booty or prisoners. Since he has begun, and is no friend of Anguishe's, his father and he shall repent it. For the rest refers to the letter from himself and Durham. Alnwik, 9 Jan. Signed. Pp. 3. Add. Endd. : a^o xxxiiij^o.
R. O. St. P., v. 240.	28. Lisle to Arran. Since the receipt of "last advertisements from thence" (altered from "your letters") excusing the sending to sea of the Scottish ships which took the King's ships laden with wine, as done by command of the King deceased, learns that the Salamander and Unicorn are now rigging for sea. If this is not done by public command, as I trust it is not, it may by your public command be letted; for it would hinder the King's good opinion of your inclination not to suffer anything that might irritate him. Can excuse the incourses of broken men upon the Borders since the abstinence; but, if these ships go forth now when you govern all, and may use the authority of admiralty which Earl Bothewol claims, "who I think would not gladly offend the King's Majesty" (altered from "who favoureth the King my master's party"), I could not excuse it and, as the defence of the sea touches specially my office, I will not only resist it, but set forth the matter to the King, whereby his good opinion of you might alter,—a part which "I had rather another played than I." Urges him rather to give cause for increased trust in his good will, and requires to know his resolution with speed. Draft in Gardiner's hand corrected by Wriothesley, pp. 3. Endd. : Mynute of the l're to be writen from my L. Lisle to therle of Arren.
9 Jan. R. O. St. P. IX., 257	29. Paget to Henry VIII. Has received a letter from the Council to the effect that the King has received his of the 14th ult. and commands him to make diligent search for practices here with Scotland, upon the death of the late King of Scots. Will do his best, but this King never sojourns two nights in one place, disposing himself as the report of great harts is made to him, and continually removing at an hours warning, so that no man can tell where to find the Court, and the rest of the ambassadors tarry twenty leagues round, as they think the King will go. If the King rested in good places, instead of "very peevish villages," things might be learnt which now escape, and the Scots, by whom heretofore he has been informed, now show themselves "according to their natures." Immediately upon Paget's conference with the King, a gentleman was despatched to Scotland and another to Denmark; also certain cannoneers were appointed for Scotland forthwith; also 50,000 crs. were sent by exchange to Denmark and Sweden, to aid Scotland, as the factor of the Hanse says, who is here about a hulk, laden with salt from Portugal, which was taken by Frenchmen. Considering the King's words touching the aid of Scotland and that ships were preparing in Bryttain (wherein the Scots were very diligent), thought to prove whether this King would suffer his subjects to do openly what he was reported to have covertly contrived; and therefore wrote a letter (copy enclosed) to the Cardinal of Turnon, who caused General Bayarde to show his servant a letter the King had despatched express to his lieutenant in Brittain (copy enclosed) and said Paget might have what he would else. Yet, "they cannot hide their affections, for, from the highest to the lowest in this Court, every man maketh this matter of the Scots almost their own," and will not believe these last news of the Scots' rupture but cover their losses and "boast the Scots with brags and lies that it is wonder to hear." Since this last courier's arrival it is blown abroad that lord Lisle is taken prisoner and 4,000 men slain, and that lord Flemyng has killed two of his keepers and escaped to Scotland; but of the King of Scots' death is no word, nor will it be believed. Three Scottish ships, arriving at Hable de Grace very lately, brought news to this Court; for the captain of the Scots Guard told Henry's servant Hammes to say to Paget that the matter of the herald (fn. 6), which he engrieved so much to the King, is no such great matter, for two English banished men (fn. 7) slew him, naming them and the circumstance almost word for word as in Berwick's deposition which was sent to Paget. The King had long conference with this captain the morrow after the French ambassador's last courier arrived and afterwards called the courier, and talked with him. Since last despatch, this King has travelled to and fro in Poyctow, detained by the Dolphin's malady and by uncertainty whether the Emperor is yet in Spain or passed into Italy. Hearing that Granvelle should pass with 20 galleys he appointed Counte Danguillara to traverse him, "as himself showed me, which I forgat to write unto your Majesty because at that time I had an earnester matter in my head"; and now news from Marselis, of the 27th ult., that 54 galleys passed out of Spain and were met by 13 out of Genes, with advertisement that the Bishop of Rome comes after Twelfth Tide to Bonnonye, makes the French suspect that the Emperor has passed, although they are put in doubt of it by their news from Spain, part of which (copy enclosed), making for their purpose, Secretary Bayarde of his own accord sent to Paget, for reasons which Henry will "lightly perceive in reading of the same." The King was also detained by the matter of the Rochellois and the "salyners." Describes the end taken in it. The King was in person at Rochelle and sat in judgment; whose answer and the petition of the suppliants Paget sends almost word for word. The lanceknights that hovered thereabouts are sent to other isles of Brittain not yet reconciled; but two parts of them are sent back to Almain with Baron Hadeck, who is discharged for taking wages for 8,000 or 9,000 when he had scant 5,000; "which came out by a comptroller's clerk that had not so good rewards of Baron Hadeck as he was wont to have of Count Guillaume." As many as chose to serve under another captain were suffered to remain; and 1,200 or 1,500 of them remain here under an agent of the Count of Oldenburgh, who was here to sue for his master's pension, which Count is appointed to bring hither a greater band next spring. Although the French brag about Italy, they intend to convert most of their power towards Flanders; and therefor are in practise with Cambray, and the abbot of Fewmy, a great man with Mons. de Vendosme and Mons. de Bees is here, on pretence of suing for redress of injuries and desiring to have a French provost marshal stationed in Cambray. This abbot did much "to drive the composition between the Flemings and the Frenchmen at the last being before Terwyn." It is said that the Flemings are driven out of the duke of Cleves' dominions, and much damaged at sea by the King of Denmark, who keeps the Sound. Yesterday, arrived Mons. Danebault, Brisac, Dampiere, Daudoyn, Bonyvet, both the St. Andrews, and other gallants that went from Narbona into Piedmont where they found nothing but stripes and hunger; and in their return lost 50 of their company, including Dannebaultes nephew, "besides that Cesare de Napoli hath met with Mons. de Langeis muletts." In Piedmont, thinking to take Racuny, a town of the duke of Savoy, they lost two captains and five ensigns. The King intends somewhat there, and has called hither the Conte de Sancto Segundo, upon whom (as Paget wrote last year) the Bishop of Rome made war. Here are arrived Hercules de Fregosa, Piers Strozzi and his brother, to whom, and to Madame d'Estampes, the King gave the ransoming of the bp. of Valence. The Bp. offers 30,000 cr. and they ask 50,000 cr., and the Bp's man has safe conduct to go and see what his friends will do. This King has sent munition to Maran and banked 190,000 crs. at Venice, for his purposes in Italy; to keep the Emperor occupied there and with the Turks, for it was said that the Emperor would convert his puissance towards Flanders. A captain of the Emperor's, called Signor Pirro, and 400 Italians mutinied for lack of wages and held a castle near Alexandria against three assaults of the Marquis of Guasto, but were, in the end, all slain. Mons. d'Alexandria, a French captain in Piedmont, for lack of wages, sacked Saluces and is discharged from the retinue. By letters from Italy, Granvelle passes thence to the Diet at Trent, where the Cardinals are already arrived. The Florentines promised the Emperor 180,000 ducats, and the city of Rome promises the Bishop 150,000. Here they say that the Burgundians practised with an Italian in Mustrell to deliver the town, but Mons. de Bees got knowledge of it and the Italian is in ward. Lusignan, 9 Jan. Signed. Pp. 7. Add. Endd. : a^o xxxiiij^o.
Caius College, MS. 597, p. 223.	2. Letter-book copy of the preceding, in the hand of Paget's clerk. Pp. 7.
Balcarres MS. Adv. Lib. Edin., II. 132.	30. The Cardinal Of Lorraine to the Queen Of Scotland. Has received her letter and message by the bearer. Is grieved, with all her kinsmen and friends, at what has befallen her and her kingdom (fn. 8). The King is very sorry and determined to help her as far as possible, for she is as much beloved as princess ever was. Hol. Fr. p. 1. Add. : A la Royne d'Escosse.
9 Jan. Baronius, XXXIII. 61.	31. Paul III. to James V. Hearing lately that Henry, son of perdition and of Satan, who bears himself as king of England, had made war upon him (in despite because unable to induce him too to perdition), Paul, without James's asking, granted him six-tenths of the fruits of the Church in his kingdom for two years towards the support of the war, and made the Cardinal of Scotland collector of it, as appears by other letters. Has thus done what last year he refused, when power (facultas) rather than goodwill was wanting. If the powers of the Holy See were not so exhausted would send money; but requires him to be hopeful and promises, if necessary, further tenths of his kingdom and other assistance against the common enemy. Exhorts him to fight bravely in the cause of God. Rome, 9 Jan. 1543, anno 9. Latin.
10 Jan. R. O.	32. Sir George Douglas to Lisle. This Wednesday, 10 Jan., two of my servants brought me, from Edinburgh, the earl of Arren's safe conduct herewith for eighteen days. I purpose to go forward this night, and with God's help will do my Sovereign lord and master good service. Divers articles will be laid to me by Arren and his Council which I will answer, and will send your lordship my full mind or else come myself. "Your p [leasure was th] at all that was frendes and servandes to my lord my [brother and to] me within the realm of Scotland shuld be assured of tha [yr lives a] nd gudes w^towt danger or hurt of any Inglishman"; and I wrote by Sir Ralph Ewery that one Mychshelson of Urd had at three sundry [times] since Christmas "be[en] upon our poor tenants." On Tuesday, 9 Jan., he has harried a poor widow 80 years old, who died the same night. Our poor people have taken hurt under trust of my words, but if the doers are punished and the goods restored the country will know that we are in good estimation. Mycshelson dwells in Urd in Norromshire, and is the chief troubler of my brother's men and mine. "I had rather he had taken a hundred pounds forth of my casket ere the country had seen my poor men take such hurt at this time; but my trust is that your lordship will make as many speak of the punishment of this lewd person (altered from 'villain') that has broken your commandment as has reported the hurts of our men. G[oo]d my lord, pleasethe yowe that Syr Rauf Ew[ery] com to me at the endyng of this letter and hays declaryd unto me th. . . . . . . . an shuld be send to yowe, of the whiche I gewe y[our lordship mo] st harty thankys. I wyll not depart whyll to m[orrow at] . . i of the cloke in the mornyng and yf it be yo^r pleasure tyll acertefy me agayne in the present tyme and I shall glad [ly perform] the same to the uttermest of my powre." Berwyk, 10 Jan. at 4 o'clock. Signed. Pp. 2. Slightly mutilated. Add. Endd. : a^o xxxiiij^o.
10 Jan. Calig. E. IV. 138. B. M.	33. The Council to Paget. "the Kinge's Ma^tes shippes laden . . . . . . . . . . . . Majesties provision wherfor his [Highness' pleasure is] that ye shuld incontinently from . . . . . . . . . marchauntes and masters of th'English [ships now being at] Burdeous, wylling and commanding [them in the] Kinges Highnes name to tary there st[ill and not to] departe untyl such tyme as they be ad[vertised from] hens of shippes set forth from hens for th[eir safeguard], which the Kinges Ma^te wyl cause to he d[one with all] spede possible. Which ye shall also signi[fy] . . . . . And thus fare ye wel. At Hampton [Court the] xth (fn. 9) daye of January." Signed by Russell, Hertford, Winchester, Tho. Bp. of Westminster, St. John, Cheyne, Browne and Wriothesley. Mutilated, p. 1. Add. (at f. 146). Endd. : * * Januarie; and (by Paget) "To be answered."
R. O.	34. Wallop to Du Bies. Wrote by a Florentine to remind him of the prisoners of Arde who slew the Englishman, in order that justice might be done according to his promise; but has heard nothing of it. Has now a more important matter to write of, his (Du. Bies's) men having taken two Englishmen prisoners within the English pale, in the house of St. Inglebert, and also there cruelly slain another Englishman and stripped off his garments, as if they were enemies in time of war. Begs to know how he intends to govern this affair, in order that he may certify the King of it; and also concerning the prisoners of Arde. French. Copy, p. 1. Endd. : Copy of a letter from Sir John Wallop to Mons^r. de Bees.