Henry VIII: June 1519, 1-14 | British History Online

Pages 95-108

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 3, 1519-1523. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1867.

Citation:

June 1519



1 June. R. O.	279. J. DE HESDIN to WOLSEY.
	Is charged by the King his master and by M[adame] to go to England, and will start in about five days. The ambassador "Messire R[ichard] Passio" has passed, and told Madame of Henry's affection for the King. The Electors wish to anticipate the day, which was fixed for the 17th inst.; so now they have fixed it for the 12th. No one knows what they will do. The party of Charles has the league on their side, and with it 20,000 foot and 6,000 horse; which will procure them much favor. The ambassador has arrived safely at Frankfort. Had news of him from Cleves. D'Isselstain has been conducting him at Madame's command. Has good news from Spain and all quarters. Bruxelles, 1 June 1519. Signed.
	Fr., p. 1. Add.: [Au re]verend pere en [Dieu m]ons. le [card.] d'Yorcq, &c.
1 June. P. S.	280. THOMAS MORE, the King's councillor.
	To have the corrody in the monastery of Glastonbury, vice Edw. Poxwell, deceased. Greenwich, 25 May 11 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 1 June.
1 June.	281. For the TOWN OF TEWKESBURY, GLOUC.
	Exemption of the inhabitants from toll, stallage, portage, murage, &c., from the expenses of knights of the shire, and from serving on juries, except within the town, according to the privilege of tenants of the ancient demesne of the crown.
	ii. Similar patents to the men and tenants of the following places: town of Hanlege, Worc.; manor of Cumbe alias Castell Combe, Wilts; manor of Oxendone, alias Oxmanton, Glouc. Westm., 1 June.
	Pat. 11 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 18.
3 June. R. O. Ellis, 3 Ser. I. 218.	282. ABP. WARHAM to the DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM.
	Received his letters of the 2d, stating that he cannot be at Otford on Tuesday next, and has deferred his journey till Whitsuntide. Is sorry for any "bodily pain" that may have happened to the Duke, and will be glad to he advertised of the Duke's coming, as he has appointed after St. John Baptist's day next to be at Maidstone for reformation of the College there, and "of certain religious places" in the diocese, for which he has sent out citations. "My Lord, I had lever lose 500 marks than that the matter that is intended should take none effect." Otford, 3 Junii.
	To my lord of Buckingham's good lordship.
3 June. Vit. B. XX. 118. B.M.	283. [PACE] to [WOLSEY].
	The first day ... (according to his last letters) had audience of the archbp. of Cologne at his castle, dis[tant] from the city ... Dutch miles. [The Archbp.] would not suffer him to enter any "hostarie" in the town, but had him taken to the castle, where a chamber was prepared for him. When he entered the castle the A[rch]bp. sent his chancellor and [some] of his council, to tell him [he] was at mass, or he would have met him at his gate. Mass over, he "would not suffer [me to] come out by my chamber un[to] ... but came un[to me] ... and as lowly maner that couith be devi[sed] ... d, setting apart all his high digni[ty] ... buldde imperial, he made me both ... o and sit with him upon his right [han]d." Delivered the King's and Wolsey's letters. The Archbp. plainly confessing that "he had not gretly exercisydde the Laten tong," desired that his brother, the lord Newnar, and his chancellor, "who rulith all aboute him," might be present at the reading of the letters. These three being come, "all sadde men suerly," the Chancellor read the letters; after which [Pace mad]e him a "proposition indifferent (advancing no one prince mo[re than any other] to the dignity imperial), as ... nowe," for the causes declared to Wolsey [in his] letters. Sends a copy of the proposition. The Archbp. then desired, after the custom of this [country], to hold conference "ap[art] with his councillors." After this, which lasted "bi the space of halfe oon houre," he replied there could be nothing more honorable [nor] more wisely devised than the King's and Wolsey's letters. Touching the proposition, he said "that not [only] hym selfe and all th[e Electors, but every prince of] Christendom was bound unto the King's grace for the most godly counsel and monitions [that] his grace did yeve unto the princes [Elect]ors of the Empire," which for his part he would follow, and that the King would gain marvellous great honor by the sending of Pace "with so godly, so noble, and so princely a commission." He promised to make answer to the letters; which Wolsey will receive with this.
	Pace dined with him, "and I had as grete and as honourable chere as themperour himselfe couith have hadde in the place." "After sum mery communication hadde at dynar tyme [he asked] me what maner of confe[deration and ami]tie the King my mastre [had] made with the French ki[ng]." Pace told him the articles of the con[federation], and that the whole body o[f] the empire, the Emperor, all the princes Electors were comprised in it, with as full enjoyment of its privileges as the King himself. He said he was very glad to hear it, for the Frenchmen had told all the Electors that the French king was sure of the king of England's aid against [this] nation, and all others, at his pleasure. Pace "shewed unto his grace that ... would pleas all the princes Ele[ctors] ... of those afore themselves, and to ... tidde that I might be present at ony ... rehearsal," he would show how faithful a friend Henry was to this nation and all its princes. The Archbp. said he gave more credence to Pace's words than any of theirs. It is a shame to hear how the French ambassadors and messengers have exalted the French king, and lowered all others, with a view to the empire. They have raised such indignation against themselves by this, "that it is now grete japerdye here to speke oon goodde wurde off [a] Frenchman." When Pace arrived he found all men greatly [alienated] from the King in consequence of the French having [spread] through the nation that they were sure of England. [This] report he has well "peacified," by telling the truth. The Archbp. has spoken very honorably of Pace's being with him. He would not suffer Pace to leave him immedia[tely] after dinner, "because itt was a fervent whotte daye," but kept him to supper.
	Though the Archbp. did not actually say whom he would support in the election, could see that he intends to promote the king of Castile, as duke of Austria, to the imperial dignity. Knows that he said to one of his fast friends, "Ye do well to favor the duke of Austryche, and so do I, for our old master's sake themperour Maximilian." When Pace left, he said he would have further communication with him at Frankfort. Thus Pace thinks he has not made a bad beginning with this Elector. Now he knows which side he is on, will conduct himself accordingly. He is said and appears to be a very good and substantial man. The French ambassadors who have been with him have declared that, if the French king were elected, he would bind himself to keep the whole nation [of Ger]man[y] in peace, and defend it at his own cost, [con]firm all the ancient privile[ges of] the Electors, and forsake his own realme [to live] amongst them. The last part [of the] proposition was that he was sure of England against all me[n]. All the premises were so proudly declared "that they did sin ... the subjection of this nation, and in like wise they be accepted very odiously." Cannot leave Cologne before tomorr[ow] for lack of shipping. No one can ride t[o] Frankfort for "juperdie." Will envour to speak with all the remaining Electors as soon as possible. Th[e] marquis of Brandeburge and the duke of Saxony are laboring for them selves as yet. The marquis has lately put to death in his country many knights and gentlemen, for robbing mer[chants] on the highway. He might have had large sums for saving their lives, but he would [have] none. He "is named [a] ... wise man and ... no man can be sure but that the one ... [contr]arie to the other." The resident legate has lately made a vehement proposal for the French king to the archbps. of Trevers and Cologne, the count Palatine, and a procurator of the marquis of Brandeburge, assembled at the Pope's desire. They shortly answered, the first only dissenting, that they wondered his holiness should try to made them elect an Emperor contrary to law. Cologne, 3 June.
	Hol., mutilated, pp. 10.
4 June. Vit. B. IV. 10. B.M.	284. LEO X. to HENRY VIII.
	Thanks the King for his letters and expressions of kindness. Refers him to Worcester and to Campeggio, the latter of whom he recalls. Rome, 4 June 1519.
	Lat., badly mutilated.
4 June. R. O.	285. JAQUES DE HORNES to HENRY VIII.
	The lady Margaret is willing, according to Henry's desire, to place the son of Mons. de Gilfort with Monsieur [Ferdinand], concerning whom Hornes promised, by writing, since his return, to speak to her. Weert, 4 June. Signed.
	Fr., p. 1. Add.
5 June. R. O.	286. SIR JOHN PECCHE to WOLSEY.
	This day week a packet arrived from Tuke, to be conveyed to Mr. Boleign. Sent it by Robert Elvys, one of the King's servants, who has returned today with letters for Tuke. Sends him to Wolsey, as he has heard certain things by the way.
	Has had no knowledge of the King's or Wolsey's pleasure since he came to this town, "with which thing your simple officer is greatly abashed." Calais, 5 June.
	The next morning, about 6 o'clock, Mr. Fowler arrived. Sent immediately "to Boleign to the argentier of France," so that on Tuesday next they will have the King's money here. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Card. of York, chancellor of England. Endd.
6 June. R. O.	287. MARGARET OF SAVOY to WOLSEY.
	Asks credence for Hesdin, her maître d'hôtel, who is going to Henry, and will also declare his charge to Wolsey. The King Catholic will be grateful to him for any favor shown to Hesdin, and for anything he does to preserve the amity. Bruxelles, 6 June 1519. Signed. Countersigned: Marnix.
	Fr., p. 1. Add.
6 June. S.B.	288. For SIR WILLIAM COMPTON.
	To be keeper of the manor of Plesaunce, in Estgrenewiche, Kent, of the gardens and orchards there, and of the park of Estgrenewiche, with the tower there; with wages for the same offices, out of the issues of the county of Kent. Del. Westm., 6 June 11 Hen. VIII.
	Pat. 11 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 11.
7 June. Calig. D. VII. 121. B. M. Ellis, 1 Ser. I. 159.	289. [SIR THOMAS BOLEYN] to WOLSEY.
	Wrote last on the 1st. On Sunday last, about 10 at night, Henry, the King's young son, was christened, as York will inform him. Presented to the Queen, in Henry's name, the salt, the cup and the layar of gold, which were much praised. Francis was greatly pleased, and said whenever it should be the King's fortune to have a prince, he would be glad to do for him in like manner. 100l. sent by Wolsey have been bestowed on the nurse, four rockers, the gentlewomen of the Queen's chamber, and an offering of 20 nobles. The King's porters and others have importuned him for reward, whom he refused. Requests to have his diet money, and the surplus he has expended. Has spoken to the King respecting the merchants' matters mentioned in Wolsey's letters of the 28th May. Poissy, 7 June. Signature lost.
	Pp. 3, mutilated. Add.: To my lord Legate, Cardinal and Chancellor.
7 June. R. O.	290. LIST OF TREATIES.
	Indenture, dated 7 June 11 Hen. VIII., witnessing that Cuthbert Tunstal, master of the Rolls, had delivered to Sir John Cutte, vice-treasurer, the following writings:—
	A confirmation of a treaty of peace between the King and Francis, signed and sealed by the latter. The oath of Francis to the same. Confirmation and oath of Francis to the treaty of matrimony, with a notarial instrument. An instrument upon the submission of the French king for the marriage, under the seal of Bernard, legate and cardinal in France. An obligation for the payment of 600,000 cr. and another of 23,000 l. Tourn. for the people of Tournay. Instrument for the submission of Francis in the affair of Tournay, under the seal of the said Cardinal. Confirmation of the treaty of depredations, signed by Francis, with the oath. Confirmation of the comprehension of the Scots, with an instrument concerning Francis' oath. The form of the said oath. The confirmation of the treaty for an interview. A paper containing several articles granted by Francis, and signed by him. His commission for delivering the eight hostages.—In another chest. His commission for receiving Tournay. Confirmation of the treaty of Tournay. Commission of lord Lyney for delivering Montaigne. Grant of lord Chatelon for the reception of the king of England's letters, excusing the remainder of the 50,000 cr. due from Tournay. Commission of Chatelon for receiving Mortaigne. Copy of the obligation of the Chamberlain to acquit De Lyney from his oath of fidelity. Copy of the Chamberlain's promise of absolving Tournay from the oath of fidelity. Names of the French noblemen who will come to the meeting. Signed by Tunstal.
	Lat.
9 June. Giust. Desp. II. 273.	291. SEB. GIUSTINIAN to the DOGE OF VENICE.
	"The negociations between France and England proceed very closely and secretly." Cannot elicit anything from the French ambassador. He says there are differences about damages inflicted and received; which Giustinian does not believe. On the arrival of his (Giustinian's) successor, who has been staying at Paris to attend the christening of the King's son, will wait on Wolsey, and the King, who is in, the country. London, 9 June 1519.
9 June. Giust. Desp. II. 274.	292. SEB. GIUSTINIAN to the DOGE OF VENICE.
	Learns that Pace is gone to the Switzers; that the proposed interview will not take place this year; and that in the royal mint here "gold nobles are being coined with great alacrity, which is very unusual." London, 9 June 1519.
9 June. R. O.	293. SIR JOHN PECCHE to [WOLSEY].
	The King's money arrived from France on Tuesday last. It was received by Pecche, Mr. Secretary of this town, and Mr. Fowler. The King's spy of Tournaham has been here today. Encloses a bill with his news.
	A servant of his, named Tichytt, came yesterday from Gravelines, and tells him of a Dane in pilgrim's weeds, on a good horse, who has come through Almayne, and says it is reported that the margrave of Brandenburgh was chosen king of the Romans, but refused it; that "the Almains nor Swycers lacked no French crowns among them;" that the French king was collecting soldiers for the purpose of obtaining the empire. Wishes to know about the payment of the spies, who came to Wingfield for money when he was here. Calles, 9 June. Signed.
	P. 1.
9 June. R. O.	294. HEW FRENCHE to WM. PAWNE.
	I pray you to deliver my money "which is my duty" to the bearer. The amount is 18l. for wages, and 9l. for three months at the limekilns. I am paid for my iron by Master Arthur. Remember my imprisonment at Calais, and your false servants Thos. Rogers and Jacke Bussart, false knaves to the King "with maycken of fasse lytters, which I shall prove." The last time I wrote to you I was angry, when I came to you at Tournay, and would have killed myself in your chamber. Remember I have got you 1,000l. with merchants buying and selling. The man shall give you a quittance if you give him the money. I will be with you myself in ten days. 9 June.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Untto my worschypfull [m]aster Wyllym Payne, ... yer master of the Kyng's werges. On the dorse is a receipt dated 18 June 11 Hen. VIII., but no sum mentioned.
R. O.	295. [HEW FRENCHE] to [MATTHEW] HALL.
	I wish to be recommended to Thos. Rogers, my master's councillor, and young George Lauston, and I ask you to remind my master to see well to my account. He says that you and Arthur had all the profit of merchandise bought for the castle, but he has gained 120 angelots on the coals, and an angelot on every 100 hand-barrows. Remember your lime, which I have as it was delivered every mew; and look at your book, what shovels, spades, and ashpoles were delivered between February and May, in a^o 10, while you and my master were in England, when Master Arthur had of you 500 or 600 "schetlers" for 6l. more than they cost. Remember well your reckoning, for I shall prove that 2,000l. or 3,000l. of the King's money has been taken away, "which I shall see reckoning before my lord Cardinal, or long be, of all the business betwixt my master and me and you and Master Arthur," for my master brought Jack to the deputy, and said there was 278l. 2s. owing for lime for the last three months. "Remember there is gotten 100l. besides coals, &c., and look well upon all things, for I would discharge me by your bills and Mr. Arthur's." I have some of Wm. Wardon's books also.
	P. 1. Add.: Unto Master Hall yn Torne. Endd.: H. French, letter from Oudenarde.
9 June. Vit. B. XX. 123. B. M.	296. [PACE] to WOLSEY.
	"Since the [writing of my] last letters unto the same, fro[m the city] of Colen, touching such con[versations as] I had with my lord tharche[bishop of] Colen," went to the city of [Mayence] where he found the Cardinal of the [said] city, and his brother the marquis of [Bran]deburge ready to go in the mor[ning] to Frankfort. Sent to them for audience. The Cardinal sent to say that, notwithstanding his hasty departure, he would send him "wu[rde] yerly" at what hour to repair to him. But the Marquis would know what he was, before he would grant him any audience. Pace replying that he should know that from the King's letters, [he] sent word again that he [would] see the letters before admitting Pace to audience. [Pace] at this "[did] sumwhat muse and study consider[ing] ... hys desire ... [contra con]suetudinem that an orator should [send] his letters of credence before his re[sort] unto the Prince to whom they were directed;" but considering that, if he did not assent, he would get no audience, and therefore no knowledge of his mind in this great cause, he sent him the letters. As soon as the Marquis had read them he sent for Pace hastily, at 9 o'clock at night, asking him to come secretly, which Pace did. He received him lovingly in a "little secrete stuphe;" and after making his excuses for sending for the King's letters, he heard Pace's proposition (the same he made at Cologne) with great attention, and answered in Latin, "right well for so grete a personage." His answer "consisted in the King's ... for the sending hither at this time unto the King's grace in ... He then had commu[nication] apart, and shewed Pace that the French king in no wise [should be] elected Emperor, though his broth[er did] labor for him as much as he [could. He] would make no express mention of [the King] of Castile, "but to have one of th ... comprehending him in the same ... it appeared my lord the archbishop of Colen and he be of one mind contra Gallum."
	"Hoc scripsi navigans in Rhœno ex Frankfordia Maguntiam quum chartam venalem non haberem, quod una scheda longe major altera aperte demonstrat. Die ix. Junii."
	Hol., pp. 3, mutilated. Add.: To my lord Cardinal's grace, &c.
10 June. Vit. B. XX. 125. B. M.	297. [PACE] to [WOLSEY].
	The Pope has [made] no delay in this election, a[s he was ad]visydde (?) to do by reason of my cum[ming], but has rather hastened it, and [mo]ved the Electors to begin this day; as they would have done if the procurator of the king of Bohemia and the duke of Saxony had arrived at Frankfort. In consequence of this haste he has had an intolerable amount of travelling, "passing at all times by places full of the pestilence, in most fervent heats," to find the Electors. Could not find the archbishop of Trevers till his arrival yesterday at Frankfort. Had audience of him as soon as he heard of his desire to speak with him. He behaved himself very like the cardinal Maguntinensis, of whose noble reception of him Pace informed Wolsey in his yesterday's letter. After answering Pace before his Council, he called him apart, and told him that Henry was not excluded from being elected, and how the late Emperor had "gone about" to promote him. Now that he had come to this point Pace did not let him slip, but declared the King's qualities to him, "as they be substantially expressed in my instructions," adding as much as was convenient for "our purpose." To which he answered, if Pace had [authority to show] the King's mind to all his brother Ele[ctors], as he had to [him], they would have great respect in the election to the King's honor. Though the Cardinal is reputed "all French," he behaved himself to Pace "like a wise and noble man;" and Pace hears from credible persons that though outwardly he favors the French, yet his inner mind is to preserve the honor of this nation as much as he can. Finds the [cou]nt Palatine all French. Has three things to write of him, which may well be kept till he comes home.
	After the interview, all ambassadors and strangers were ordered to withdraw from the city, according to its ancient constitutions, which forbid any person but the inhabitants remaining in it after the greater part of the Electors have assembled. There were then five. The duke of Saxony had not arrived, but Pace trusts to have him informed of the King's mind. Heard yesterday from Mons. de la Roche that he has entertained the count of Nassowe, who is with him yet. Hears that he will neither consent to the French king's election, nor accept [the Empire] himself, which he might have if he would. "He doeth ... by reason of his age, as a mas[ter] ... to sustain the businesses depending [upon] the same. Here is very honorable [bruit] made in every place, as well of the said Duke's virtuous and godly living, as of his singular wisdom." The lady Margaret has written to the cardinal Gurcen, and all other ambassadors of the king of Castile, to communicate to Pace all their affairs concerning this election. In consequence, De la Roche has plainly confessed that his master has no confidence but in the archbishop of Cologne and the cardinal Maguntinensis; which is true, "for I do know as much thereof as all they." The French king, on the other side, has the marquis of Brandeburge and th[e] count Palatine "the residue uppo[n both] the parties is but h ... suertie." One thing helps the king of Castile greatly—the agreement of all the people of this nation, who are ready to spend their goods and lives against the French king if he be elected. They will not be contented with the election of any but the king of Castile or Don Ferdinando his brother; the latter of whom would be chosen by the commonalty, if it were in their power, because they feel assured he would live amongst them. The procurator of the king of Bohemia is daily expected at Frankfort. He will come with 200 horse. When Pace was with the lady Margaret he was informed by the Council "that the king of Bohemia had written with his own hand [unto the King] of Castile, and that they were sure of him, but I ... here, that relation to be true." He has one vote to be given personally or by his procurator. This m[orning] or tomorrow will have communication with the cardinal Gurcensis, and other ambassadors for the king of Castile, who have arrived at Mayence, "where we must all lie during the election." It is a day's journey from Frankfort. Will provide to have daily news "of as much as shall be known to any other prince's orator." Has spoken with the Legate. He has had no intelligence from the Pope of Pace's coming, nor is made privy to any part of it. To give his opinion of him, [Pace likes him] as well "as the cardinal Sedunensis doth like freris." Has not heard from the cardinal Sedunensis. The Legate told him that four lords and knights of this country, supporters of the king of Castile, lately entered his house, and threatened to drive him out of the country if he did not desist from his practices against the king of Castile, and that they would raise against him seven regions of this nation. The Pope's legate and ambassador are in great odium on this account. Mons. Dorvall, the ambassador of the French King, lies at Confluence, far from Frankfort, and dares not come near, for fear of the people.
	The King's common letters [to] the Electors were not used, as the cardinal Maguntinensis showed him that no prince ever wrote to them except separately, because they are never assembled except at such times as no man can have audience of them. Will, however, try to have the letters read among them. Yesderday, as he left Frankfort, one of the cardinal Maguntinensis' council came to him, and told him he would move his master to give his favor to the King in the election. Judging this to come from his master, Pace made answer to him as he had done to the archbishop of Trevers. If the Cardinal do this, the archbishop of Cologne will undoubtedly follow him. Sees such likelihood that the Cardinal and the two Archbishops would be contented to elect the King, that if they had begun their practice as soon as other princes, the King would have obtained before any of them both. An embassy from Hungary has arrived at Newremberghe with 300 horse, and the king of "Polon's" ambassadors with 100. Begs that Henry's letters of thanks may be sent to the cardinal Magunt. and the two Archbishops. When he a[rrived] at Frankfort there was a report that he was a Frenchman, or sent in the interest of the French King. If he had not clearly proved himself an Englishman he would have been driven out of the city. Has not heard from Wolsey since his departure, though he has written so often that he cannot be accused of negligence.
	On the Rhine within two miles of "Magunce," 10 June.
	Hol., mutilated, pp. 11. Add.: "To my lord Legate's grace."
10 June. Vit. B. IV. 24. B. M.	298. SIL. BISHOP OF WORCESTER to WOLSEY.
	Replies to Wolsey's letters written in his own hand. The Pope had been compliant with reference to the legateship in consideration of the half dismes promised him on the privation of Hadrian. He says he meets with no adequate return from Wolsey, and will not be pacified unless the engagement conveyed in the letters of Campeggio be fulfilled; sc. that endeavors should be made that his Holiness should have the money in the course of the year. Worcester has set before him Wolsey's services to the Holy See,—how he was the means of Campeggio being admitted as a legate, contrary to all the usages of the realm. The Pope answered, in some heat, Campeggio was not sent there for his benefit, but for the good of Christendom and the honor of England. He had satisfied his duty in appointing him, and the disgrace of excluding him must fall upon England. Worcester told him to how much expense Wolsey was put for entertaining the Legate. The Pope answered, that was only a matter of politeness,—that he was not compelled to do it, as he always made sufficient provision for his own legates. He complains besides of the delay that always takes place in England. Has had to pay 45 ducats to cardinal St. Quatuor for expediting the bulls. Begs they may be repaid to his sub-collector Silvester. Rome, 10 June 1[519]. Signature burnt off.
	Lat., mutilated, pp. 3. "Tho. car. Ebor. Angl. magn. cancellario."
11 June. Vit. B. XX. 131. B. M.	299. [PACE] to [WOLSEY].
	Wrote last yesterday. This night past, the Pope's ambassador, the archbp. of Rheggio, who has lately spoken so vehemently for the French king's election, and so indiscreetly against the king of Castile, ran away "simulato habitu;" and he has done wisely, as he could not have stayed here any longer without his destruction. The Legate would be glad to do the same, but cannot, as he is bound by his commission to stay till an emperor shall have been elected. The indignation of the commonalty against the [Frenchmen] is incredible. "Gallus laborat ut excludat Catholicum, Catholicus ut Gallum; et sic magna pugna est inter Christianam fidem et Catholicam. And thus they may well both lose the victory." There is a report to-day, "incerto auctore," that the duke of Saxony will labour for his brother. There is, as yet, great dissension among the Electors, and none know less than themselves who shall be Emperor. Has spoken to-day with many nobles, ambassadors and deputies for the king of Castile, who had been informed of his coming by the lady Margaret; among them, with the count Palatine's brother, who told him the Count was safe for the king of Castile, who has promised him great things. Card. Gurck he could not see today, as he is ill, and has taken "a medici[ne]." The French ambassadors in Coblentz have sent an "oration" to the Electors, which they would have rehearsed to them had they been admitted to audience or allowed to come to Frankfort. Has read it by the help of a friend, but could not have a copy. The effect is that no prince Christian is fit to be emperor but the French king, on account of his power and virtues. Extracted these words about the king of England: "Qua felicitat[e] factum esse putatis, ut rex Angliæ ... autumno, ex hoste perniciosissimo, socius officiosissimus, ex inimico infestissimo suavissimus amicus, hoc animo, hac lege effectus sit, ut patriam, opes, liberos, salutem denique propriam regiis obsequiis perpetuo addixerit." Had word from Frankfort today that the duke of Saxony will enter tonight, and that the election will begin on Tuesday next, 14 [June]. If the French king be elected, no man "being at this time in this nation" will be safe, "for every man and chylde is in armis here agaynst thatt." There are 4,000 horse now in this city, and more come daily. Every ambassador here pays 12 fl. a week for his "stuphe," besides his own and his servants' meat and drink, "which is as costly as it can be." Mayence, 11 June.
	P.S.—Is not in assured health at present, but will take care to expel the disorder, as the time and business require nothing so little as that he should fall sick.
	Hol., mutilated, pp. 5.
12 June. Vit. B. XX. 134. B. M.	300. [PACE] to [WOLSEY].
	Herman Rynge [has] this day informed him that t[he duke] of Nassowe has just begun a pra[ctise] with the four Electors, who had cons[en]ted, at the instance of the late Emperor, to elect the king of Castile, to induce them to keep their promise, by an offer from the said King of 50,000 gold ducats each on his election. The Electors are said to have accepted that King's obligation thereon. If true, this is very important, and he is sure of his election. Is well assured, however, that all the ambassadors and de[puties] here for the [said King] are in great doubt of his cause. The French king's practises go from bad to worse. Infamous ("famosa") songs are daily written here, in Latin and German, against the French. All the late Emperor's friends are on the king of Castile's side, and they have here now 40,000 foot and 6,000 horse ready for his defence; which army is daily increased, for all the earls having dominion about the Rhine are ready to take his part, and will punish the four Electors if they do not perform their promise to the late Emperor. Besides, there are 25,000 Swiss ready to act against the French king if he make any attempt by force of arms. Casimir marquis of Brandeburge, cousin to the elector of that name, is to be commander of the army. Money is ready for its support for five months; also artillery.
	A French ambassador, lately going to Hungary, has been arrested at Lynce with, it is thought, much money. Another Frenchman has been taken passing secretly at night by the Rhine, with money. He is said to be no small personage. Two merchants of this nation, who had promised to pay the French king here by exchange 1,100,000 cr., have also been taken. Has today spoken with card. Gurck, who supports the King Catholic. He told Pace nothing new about the election. He had just heard of the death of the bishop of Salsburge, of whom he was coadjutor. He will now have the bpric. and 100,000 fl. a year, besides "great goods" left by the bishop. Herman Rynge goes to Frankfort tomorrow. Begs Wolsey to write a kind letter to him, for he is of great service to Pace. He is in great repute among noblemen here, by which Pace learns many th[ings] [he] would otherwise be ignorant of. "Post meum isthinc disce[ssum] literarum nihil accepi." Mayence, 12 June.
	P.S.—The card. of Mayence has commanded the heads of the city to tell him for what number of additional horsemen lodging could be found in Mayence. They have replied they can accommodate in and about the city 70,000 horsemen. "He may pray here, Adjuva nos Deus salutaris noster, nam undique strepunt arma." The Card. has sent him a large present of "wyne and mete."
	Hol., mutilated, pp. 5.
R. O. Ellis, (fn. 1) 3 Ser. I. 179.	301. PACE to WOLSEY.
	Postscripta. An earl of this country has written to the ambassadors of the king of Castile resident here, that the French king has made an army of 30,000 men, and that 10,000 English archers will join them, which he says are now shipped and ready to take their way to Lorraine. The Frenchmen have confirmed it by their letters. Though he is sure this is but a feigned matter, especially touching the said archers, and has sufficiently declared it, still "this nation" is very evil contented at hearing it. They are worse contented at this; viz., the French king has written to say that Pace is here, either to make him or Henry Emperor, and hinder the king of Arragon's purpose. Wolsey will thus see in what case he stands. Has no need of this French trouble, for he has much to do beside. Is out of health by reason of the great heats.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: "To my lord Cardinal's grace."
13 June. R. O. St. P. I. 2.	302. JOHN CLERK to WOLSEY.
	Has showed the King at large what Wolsey wished. "Master Pace's sickness and his feebleness runneth marvellously in his mind, and in a manner he liketh nothing that your grace should send no man to Master Pace unto such time as ye have word again, for he saith then it will be too late." He says also that if Clerk goes first to lady Margaret, and then to Pace, the delay will be so great as to make it useless. "As touching his enterprise of the empire," has reasoned as deeply as his wit would serve him, not varying from Wolsey's instructions, "but his grace, as me thinketh, considereth no jupardyes." The King would not conclude with him tonight, but says that he will sleep and dream on the matter, and give him an answer in the morning. Showed him that if he stood in such doubt for Pace, a commission might be sent to Clarencieux or Tompson, one of the clerks of the Signet, both of whom are "wise men and well broken," and might put it in execution if Pace do otherwise than well. He said he would think of it till tomorrow. Will come to Wolsey as soon as he gets his answer. Windsor, Monday morning, one o'clock.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add.: To my lord Cardinal's good grace.
13 June. Er. Ep. XV. 14.	303. ERASMUS to JODOCUS JONAS.
	At his request gives a sketch of the life of Colet. He was born of wealthy parents at London. His father was twice lord mayor. His mother, who is still alive, had eleven sons and eleven daughters, of whom Colet was the eldest, and outlived them all. He was of tall and handsome person; studied the scholastic philosophy, Cicero, Plato, Plotinus, and the mathematics; visited France and Italy; studied the fathers, especially St. Augustine; was a diligent reader of law and of English poetry. On returning from Italy, he lectured on St. Paul's Epistles at Oxford, when he was of the age of thirty, and Erasmus the same within a few months; and here their acquaintance commenced. He made great advances in theology, though he took no degree; was invited to London by Henry VII.; made dean of St. Paul's; became a great preacher; and distinguished himself for his frugality and abstinence. After grace was said at his table, a boy used to read a passage from the Epistles of St. Paul or the Proverbs of Solomon, and this led the conversation. He never walked out except with a book; was extremely neat in his person and apparel, and choice in his language; always wore black, whilst his compeers wear purple; and laid out his patrimony in pious uses. Gives an account of the foundation of St. Paul's school, and the usages introduced into it by Colet. He had intended to spend his days in a house which he had built in the gardens of the Charter House at Richmond, when he was taken with the sweating sickness. He fought against his natural inclinations, especially his tendencies to parsimony, jesting and licentiousness. He avoided entertainments of the laity, and was very temperate at table. Liked young children of both sexes. Preferred Scotus to Aquinas, whom he accused of arrogance and of profaning the gospel with philosophy. Praised the life of married men as superior to celibacy; but thought that priests and monks, who offended against the laws of chastity, were often not so bad as the proud, the malevolent and the ignorant. He used to say, "that avarice and pride were far more execrable vices in a priest, than if he kept a hundred concubines." Had a great dislike to bishops, and was rather inclined to favor those who hated the adoration of saints and images in churches. He condemned the colleges in England as injurious to study, and the public schools for the absence of good discipline. Approved of secret confession, but not the over anxious repetition of it. Unlike his contemporaries he said mass only on Sundays and festivals. He disapproved of the multifarious learning of the age as injurious to the innocence and purity of Christianity. Highly valued the apostolical Epistles, but thought them poor in comparison with the wonderful majesty of the Gospels. Read carefully heretical books, and said he often got more profit from them than from those which are employed in endless definitions and servile adulation of certain doctors. He was never on good terms with his bishop, who was a superstitious and invincible Scotist, nor ever popular with his colleagues. When his bishop was eighty years old, he cited Colet before the Archbishop for preaching against images, and complaining of written sermons,—a frigid custom in England, and adopted by the bishop on account of his age;—but the cause was dismissed. He summoned him another time into the King's court for asserting, when England was preparing for war against France, that an unjust peace was preferable to the most just war; but the King threatened his persecutor with vengeance. After Easter, when the expedition was ready against France, Colet preached on Whitsunday before the King and the court, exhorting men rather to follow the example of Christ their prince than that of Cæsar and Alexander. The King was afraid that this sermon would have an ill effect upon the soldiers, and sent for the Dean, who was dining at the Franciscan monastery near Greenwich. When the King heard of it, he entered the garden of the monastery, and, on Colet's appearance, dismissed his attendants; then discussed the matter with him, desiring him to explain himself, lest his audience should suppose that the Dean intended to insist that no war was justifiable. After the conversation was over he dismissed him before them all, drinking to Colet's health, saying aloud, "Let every man have his own doctor, this is mine." Anderlaco, idus Junii 1519.
13 June. Vit. B. XX. 137. B. M.	304. ALBERT CARDINAL OF MAYENCE and ARCHBISHOP OF MAGDEBURG to WOLSEY.
	Thanks Wolsey for his letters. As soon as any opportunity offers itself of showing his gratitude will be careful to avail himself of it. Will study to act as Wolsey advises in the election of the King of the Romans, and elect the man fittest for the dignity. Will not promote him who desires empire, but him who is able to protect his subjects and the Christian religion. Henry's promise of aid and protection affects him much. Has received Pace with pleasure. Frankfort, 13 June '19. Signed.
	Lat., mutilated, p. 1. Add.: Rev^mo in Chr'o patri, &c. d'no Thomæ, &c. cardinali Eboracen', &c. Angliæ, &c. legato, &c.
13 June. Er. Ep. XI. 10.	305. ALBERT CARDINAL OF MAYENCE to ERASMUS.
	Is always delighted to hear from him; and specially glad to make the acquaintance of scholars. Receives his commendation of Richard Pace, the ambassador of the king of England, whom he knows already by repute and the letters of Henry and Wolsey. Frankfort, 13 June 1519.
14 June. R. O.	306. FRANCIS I. to HENRY VIII.
	Has received his letters by the sieur de Boulen (Boleyn), his ambassador, and thanks him for the commission given to Boleyn to act as sponsor to Francis' son, the duke of Orleans, on behalf of Henry, giving him his name. Boleyn performed the ceremony with all possible honor. Will do the same if Henry's Queen have a son or daughter. Sainct Germain en Laye, 14 June. Signed.
	Fr., p. 1. Add. Endd.
14 June. Vit. B. XX. 138. B. M.	307. PACE to [WOLSEY].
	[Hen. VIII.] will be undoubtedly proposed [at this] election, "and treaty shall be ha[d] ... creation," as he has been today advertised from Frankfort; insomuch that [question] has been made of him whether he has authority to accept the empire "eo [nomine]." Having no such commission, replied that whatso[ever] he does concerning the election, the King will confirm. It is uncertain what will ensue. Thinks it would not be unreasonable to send the commission "in most ample form," as quickly as possible, provided no mention be made in it of any money to be given to any ... secretly or otherwise, out of respect to the King's honor and Pace's person. Some of the Electors have [said] openly, that if the French King's orators had [promoted] his cause "so indifferently, and ... without pompous and proud ... as I have done ... the French King had ... this election." The army for defending the King of [Castile], the number of which Pace mentioned in former letters, approaches Frankfort, and his deputies openly say that, if they cannot have the empire by election, they will get it by the sword. This may prove an occasion of great schism. Has spoken today with the prothonotary Carrace, the nuncio, "a very honest man," who is ill in bed. He says the Pope's letters have all been intercepted by the said King of Castile's friends here, and that Pace can have no further knowledge of the Pope's mind than he has. Carrace is privy to a part of the Pope's mind towards Henry. Writes daily, but never has an answer. Mayence, 14 June. Signed.
	Hol., mutilated, pp. 2. For the most part in cipher, with modern decipher.
June. Vit. B. XX. 139. B. M.	308. [PACE] to WOLSEY.
	"This day the Pope's Legate reside[nt here, and the prothonotary] Carracius, nunc[ius Apostolicus,]" have received letters from his [Holi]ness. They are to assist Pace in all the King's causes. Has received letters from my lord of Worcester confirming it, and adding that the Pope will keep all his promises. The letters have come too late, for the delay which they enjoin the Legate and prothonotary to procure cannot be had, as all the Electors are now together at Frankfort (except the procurator of the king of Bohemia, who will enter tomorrow), and no one can go to them, "and this is a matier that cannot be procured per tutias personas, as theye affirm them selfes." Hopes to do some good, one way or other, without o[ver] much delay. There is a great dissension between the Elector Palatine (?) and the marquis of Brandenburg, because the one disturbs all the other's practices. Could they agree, one of them would be likely to obtain the Imperial crown. The former says he would not accept it, but labors for his brother. The latter would take it. There is no Elector fitter. He has a ready wit, an eloquent tongue and other princely qualities, but the Gallicizes far too much. The Palatine (?) has promised the Legate here to cause the king of Castile's oath, taken at the investiture of the realm of Naples, to be examined among the Electors. This will make much against the said king.
	Has secret intelligence for certain, that the Pope, fearing the king of Castile will get the crown, has secretly prayed the Cardinal ... to mediate "be[tween] his Holiness and the said King of Castile t[hat at] his election they may be fri[ends] in spite of what the Pope has done against his election. One of the said King's agents here, named Lewis Marroton, said, after Pace's arrival, that, in spite of all the lady Margaret had written of or for him, they would not trust any Englishmen, because they had been deceived by them in the delivery of Tournay. Could have answered this, but it is not the time to dispute with them. Expects hourly tidings from Frankfort of the King's own promotion to the empire by the aid of the card ... and abp. of Cologne. Mayence, ... June.
	Hol., mutilated, pp. 3. Partly in cipher. Add.: To my lord Cardinal's grace and legate in England.