Pages 1198-1212
Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 4, 1524-1530. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1875.
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Citation:
December 1526
| 11 Dec. Cal. D. IX. 274. B. M. |
2703. GHINUCCI to WOLSEY. |
|---|---|
| "[Illme] et Rme in Christo, &c. Per literas commu[nes] intelliget D. v. R. successum rerum post meum in hanc curiam adventum; qui[a] autem mandatum mihi fuit ut super occurrentiis etiam judicium meum scriberem ... licet agnoscam quam periculosum hoc sit; et etiam nunc quasi superfluum censeam, cum a R.D. Bathoniensi copiose D. v. R. satisfactum non ambigam, ut tamen a ... dicam quæ mei ingenii debilitas attinget:— | |
| "Quoad matrimonium, licet nec in rege Gallorum nec in ejus matre videam aliquid indicii amoris erga D. Helionoram, tamen puto parum fundamenti facere posse in matrimonio principissæ nostræ donec rex Franciæ De concordia cum Cæsare speraverint, (fn. 1) cui rei nescio quis terminus præfigi possit. Cupiunt enim Galli valde recuperationem filiorum, et ad hoc quasi ad finem actiones eorum omnes tendere videntur; videnturque præsupponere nullam esse certiorem vel breviorem vi[am] ad filios regis Gallorum recuperandos quam concordiam cum Cæsare, quam putant nullo pacto procedere posse, excluso matrimonio D. Eleonoræ. Et licet eis pluries dictum fuerit si Cæsar filios regis Gallorum honestis conditionibus amice liberare noluerit possent filii Chr. Regis alia vid recuperari, videlicet via belli, cum favore et auxilio regis Angliæ, non tamen videntur ab eorum opinione recedere. | |
| "Quod autem ad id tendant, quod supra dictum est, satis videtur ex hoc apparere, quia dum super dom. Eleonoram tentatur, aperte dicunt quod pro recuperatione filiorum Regis non solum dom. Elionoram sed quamcumque mulierem, etiam centum annorum, eis a Cæsare propositam ducerent, immo ad hoc mulam Cæsaris, ut eorum verbis utar. Item cum de rebus Italiæ fit cum eis sermo, dicunt se nullum interesse habere in eis, nisi quod fœdus illud, in quo singulis mensibus exponunt ... milia scutorum, ad id tantum intrarunt ut filios recuperare possent. Nec a supradicta opinione recedo propterea quod rex Gallorum dixit velle per proprium oratorem requirere Cæsarem ut ei det dom. Eleanoram, ad hoc ut negante Cæsare, quod pro certo tenere asserunt, honorificentior via regi Gallorum pateat ad discedendum a matrimonio dom. Eleanoræ. Nam non videtur verisimile [ut] hoc expectent a Cæsare, cum non videatur Cæsarem posse dom. Eleanoram alibi maritare. Præterea, ut ipsimet dicunt, dum alias ipsi peterent dom. Elianoram id sibi negatum non fuit, sed dictum quod servarent promissa dom. Elianoram habendi, quod etiam nunc verisimile est eis dictum iri. Et sic hoc est frustra tempus conterere. Quare ego credo hunc oratorem ad alium effectum mitti; sed ne confœderati aut alii aliquid sus-picentur, et sic sub hoc (fn. 2) colore. | |
| "Hoc autem satis videtur colligi posse ex verbis Regis. Dum enim nos instaremus quod ex quo hujus mentis erat id committeret suo ibi oratori (fn. 3) ad lucrandum tempus, Δ respondit quod honor suus expostulabat ut ad (fn. 4) illud mitteret un gentilhomo de roba curta. Ego autem non video quare hoc etiam per illum, qui (fn. 5) ibi est, fieri non potuisset; et dum replicaremus quare hunc non miserat, respondit quod fuerat habitus respectus ad confœderatos ne suspicarentur, sed quod, postquam habuisset salvum conductum pro quo miserat, hominem hunc mitteret. Puto itaque, ut dixi, hæc alio tendere et etiam, sperare Gallorum regem sub hoc clypeo resolutionem matrimonii in aliquas ebdomadas dilaturum; et ad idem tendere puto quod Rex dixit velle interim de particularibus circa matrimonium Anglum tractare, præsertim dicentibus nobis resolute a Majestate sua respondendum utrum filiam Regiæ majestatis vellet vel non, pos[tea] de particularibus agendum, noluerit se super hoc declarare, sed dixerit velle prius de illis agere, quasi innuens ex eis pendere utrum illam vellet nec ne. Ad quod optime per D. Bathon. replicatum fuit, [qui] dixit quod particularia erant Mti suæ notissima. Sed rex Gallorum, ut hoc evaderet, ostendit ... esse quod moderationem requirebat. | |
| "Quoad pacem puto Regem hunc promptissime descensurum; si tamen sibi recuperatio filiorum pro pecuniis proponatur, omissa Burgundia et aliis, in quibus jam videtur Cæsar non magnam vim fac[turus]. Nec sum in ea opinione in qua esse videntur orator Pontificis et orator Venetus, videlicet quod rex Gallorum adhuc si honestis conditionibus filios recuperare posset, non sit cum Cæsare concordaturus, nisi contentis in liga impletis. Nam intimum est desiderium Gallorum de recuperandis filiis, et ideo non deerit, ut puto, color ad ligam in aliquo mitigandum. In eis enim, quæ urgent Itali, solum est ducatus Mediolani quem vellent pro Sfortia. Hoc autem, ut opinor, putabunt posse evadere si Cæsar se difficilem reddiderit; præponent enim amissionem Hungariæ (?) et vicinum a Turcis periculum, quod non potuit in consideratione haberi, quando liga fucta fuit. Præponent etiam quod invenitur æquipollenter Ital. provideri videatur (sic) ex persona ducis Borboniæ, præsertim si provideatur quod investitura extendat se ad hoc, ad filios, &c., de quo hactenus, ut dicit hic Rex, actum non fuit, cum intendat solum ducem Borboniæ Cæsar investire. Ad hoc etiam addent quod male contentus est dux Borboniæ de Cæsare, unde magis poterunt confidere de eo Itali. Præponent etiam ipsos Italos alias de duce Borboniæ contentos fuisse; quod etiam rex Gallorum nobis aperte dixit quoad Pontificem, licet addiderit Δ6 (fn. 6) nunc de hoc non contentari. Præponent etiam factum fuisse omnem conatum pro Sfortia, obtulisseque ad hoc, ut facilius Cæsar in eum consentiret, restituere omnia prout adhuc n ... offert. Quod si non possit Sfortia hoc obtinere, non debet propterea omnis Christianitas in manus Turcarum ire, nec timebit rex Gallorum ac Italos via æquipollentiæ supplantari, cum non possit æquipollens fieri recuperationi filiorum. Et videatur excusatus aliqualiter rex Gallorum, si filios non recuperet, quantumvis magnum periculum expectare Turcarum. | |
| "A consideratione præmissorum alienum non videtur, quod pridie dictum est mihi a cardinale de Salviatis, fuisse, sc., superioribus diebus hic Hispanum quendam mercatorem, in Gallia habitantem, ad tractandum cum rege Gallorum nomine dom. Eleanoræ de pace, in quo licet vilis et parvæ auctoritatis esset tamen auditus fuit, nihilque de his quæ cum illo tractatum fuerat cum aliquo ex confœderatis communicatum fuit. Dicitur autem postea ... in nihilum resolutum. (fn. 7) Quod ad Italos attinet, credo quod licet eorum oratores hic multum difficiles se reddant in consentiendo quod Mediolanum alteri quam Sfortiæ detur, tamen visa inclinatione regis Gallorum facile ad omnia condescendent. | |
| "Ubi autem pax ista tractari et concludi habeat puto a Cæsare pendere, cujus mentem puto hactenus non bene circa hoc intelligi, nec credo quod brevi spacio possit circa hoc veritas haberi nisi in sua curia; video enim eum istic satis urgenter non solum scripsisse sed instetisse ut serenissimus Rex noster hanc provinciam susciperet et mediator pacis esse vellet. Video ex opposito ab hoc Rege et etiam ab aliis confœderatis, ut ex verbis Regis colligi potuit, et novissime etiam orator Pontificis confessus fuit instante Cæsare in Hispanias mandata pro pace missa fuisse; et hoc ut aptissime D. Bathon. ex ore Regis excerpsit, paucis abhinc diebus, cum dixerit ea adhuc in Cæsaris curiam pervenire non potuisse. Quod etiam Pontificis orator affirmavit. Video etiam prout idem orator Pontificis uni, a quo ego habui dixit, licet dictis ipsius oratoris in hoc non multum tribuam, scripsisse non diu est, Cæsarem ad Papam contentum esse ut ibi hujusmodi tractatus fieret. Hoc autem in tot locis seminari potius videtur ex parte Cæsa[ris ad] fraudem et intellectuum occupationem quam ad verum pacis desiderium tendere. | |
| "Quid autem sibi velit hæc recens mandatorum in Hispaniam missio, quæ etiam per quendam camerarium Papæ, qui quatuor abhinc diebus in Hispaniam ivit, tam per Regem quam per alios iterata est, prudentissimo judicio D. v. R. considerandum remitto, præsertim si, prout dubito, nec ex parte Cæsaris nec ex parte confœderatorum Regi nostro et D. v. R. communicata fuerit; licet iste Rex hodie monitus a D. Bathoniensi quod hoc fieret non potuerat sine Rege nostro, dixerit se id ipsi Regi nostro significasse. Quid etiam significet, ita aride et in quantum generalia tam super deposito quam super pace nobiscum actum similiter consummatissimo judicio D. v. R. remitto. De deposito status Mediolani licet nobis responsum fuerit prout in communibus literis continetur, puto tamen etiam hoc a Gallo pendere quamvis ipse se circa hoc ad Italos referre videatur. Nec vereor quin innuente Gallo Itali consentiant; sed bene credo Gallum in hoc licet forte sub Italorum nomine dissensurum nisi certam viderint spem recuperationis filiorum; quia sperat, ut ipsemet dicit, ex illo bello quod adhuc nutrit, filiorum recuperationem. Scit autem quod si bellum illud cesset aliud aggredi opus est, in quo majori cum difficultate et majori sumptu Cæsari nocebitur. Prædicta licet pro majori parte ex his quæ hinc inde audivi collegerim, cupio tamen id solum apud D. v. R. ea scripsisse operari (sic) quod mandatis mihi factis obediverim. | |
| "Quod dictum est de investitura ducis Borboniæ, si ad id deveniatur, dignetur D.V.R. considerare quod si præsupponamus eam ad filios non extendi, præter id quod difficultatem ingeret concordiæ; quia videbit Italia sibi non consultum; immo ut hic Rex et nonnulli alii dixerunt apparebit ducem Borboniæ esse positum a Cæsare tanquam umbram. Etiam in magna parte destruit quod in privata mea instructione continetur, unde rogo D. v. R., dignetur me certum reddere si velit aliquid circa hoc agi cum Cæsare, casu quo sua Majestas sit omnino resoluta ut dux Borboniæ sit dux Mediolani. Et si ad hoc deveniendum sit, forsan non erit ab re ita se in ea re gerere ut cum viderit Italia relinqui suas ex hoc res minus securas reddi id quod sibi majoris securitatis accesserit istinc recognoscet. | |
| "Dum instaremus D. Bathon. et ego apud Regem istum Chr. ut aliquem modum inveniret quo de pace in Anglia et non in Hispania tractaretur, ostendendo plus sibi honoris et utilitatis hac via accessurum, approbavit vera esse quæ dicebamus, addendo quod etiam illa via res cito te[r]minaretur, quod non contingeret in Hispania, quia ille ad suum propositum rem protraheret donec, rebus sibi prospere succedentibus, excluderet malum [et] antequam de hoc haberetur notitia concluderet. Noluit tamen propterea aliquid facere circa hoc, sed dixit mandata pro forma missa, et quod erat certus quod nihil fieret. | |
| "Videtur Italis quod si Cæsar instet ducatum Mediolani dari Borbonio, possit ei facile resisti; ex quo Gallus est contentus eum ad status suos restituere, nec videre quare, si Gallus Borbonio, pontifex Columpnensibus injuriam remittant, quare etiam idem erga Sfortiam facturus non sit. Addunt etiam ad hoc quod in tractatu Madrid Borbonius contentus erat recupera- tione suorum statuum. Jam videtur Rex iste admittere quod ad nullum ex articulis in dicto tractatu contentis teneatur. Fuit inter alia Christianissimo dictum quod cum certus sit Ser. Regem nostrum abhor[rere] monarchiam, poterat esse securus quod in omnibus quæ per ejus manus tractarentur curaret ne Cæsar major fieret. Admissit id quidem, sed in pristinis terminis perstitit. | |
| "D. v. R. dignetur me excusatum habere si adhuc hic sim. Non potui enim citius expediri; immo nec adhuc expeditus sum; nec stetit per nos, cum in octo diebus quinquies D. Bathon. et ego ad curiam equitaverimus, quæ hinc ad duo miliaria distabat. Tandem heri, quam per alias literas communes D. v. R. videbit, resolutionem habuimus. Mearum autem rerum expeditio D. Robertetto commissa est; instructio vz. eorum (fn. 8) quæ Rex ibi pro se velle fieri ... | |
| "Litteræ passus pro correriis et litteræ passus pro me solicita[ntur] ... erit et idem D. Bathon. qui certe nullo labori aut incommodo pep[ercit aut] parcit. Si literas saltem passus pro me obtinere possem, non tardarem pro h ... equitarem; sed absque hoc frustra irem. Spero omnino intra biduum disc[essurum]. Quoad literas passus pro correriis commisit scribi ejus officiaribus ut omnes curso[res] per oratores regis Angli expeditos libere cum eorum literis transire permitterent ... autem hoc non videatur se extendere ad alios cursores qui forte nostras literas ass ... non tamen dubito viam ad hoc invenire. Commendo me," &c. Poysi, 11 Dec. 1526. | |
| Hol., mutilated, part cipher, pp. 6. | |
| Ib. f. 277. | 2. Decipher of part of the preceding. |
| Mutilated, pp. 4. | |
| R. O. | 3. Decipher of part of the preceding. |
| Pp. 4. | |
| 12 Dec. R. O. |
2704. ITALIAN NEWS. |
| i. From letters of the prothonotary Casale, 12 Dec., Venice. | |
| Wrote on the 8th that the Pope's fear was lessened on account of the advance of the Viceroy towards Naples, and the Germans towards Milan, Still dreads that he may make some composition. Sir Gregory's letters will show what has happened at Rome. | |
| In conversation with the Doge (hoc principe) about the Pope's fears, he told Casale that there was no reason for alarm, as matters seemed hopeful, and the Pope could not be compelled to take unfair offers; a truce, however, should be made for the purpose of wasting the Emperor's army in Italy; that he felt sure the Pope would no nothing except to satisfy the others; that the Venetians were in good spirits, having lately sent 40,000 ducats to the camp, and recruited their army; that they had intercepted two letters from George Salspruk, leader of the Germans, to Bourbon and to his son, saying that he could not keep his army longer without money; that he had pawned all his property, and was in extreme need, and had written thus several times without answer. The Venetians will send this news to the Pope to encourage him. The Germans are at Stella. Those at Milan will not come out to join the others without four months' pay, and they have not a farthing. Does not think matters are in so much danger as is thought; and if all do their duty like the Venetians, everything will be well. | |
| ii. From letters of Sir Gregory, 5 Dec., Rome. | |
| D. Albertus (Carpi), D. Laurentius Toscanus and himself have urged the Pope for various reasons to endeavor to obtain an honorable peace, but he will neither speak freely nor act openly. News came from Florence that Guicciardini had written to the Florentines to settle their affairs; and the Legate wrote thence that all were fleeing with their property, and that he intended to do the same. Card. Rod. Francesco and Giacomo Vittore begged the Pope to settle matters, as the only hope was in peace or truce. News has come today that the Germans are going towards Parma, and have already passed Sesia. The captain whom the Pope sent with Pinalosa to the Viceroy has returned with letters of credence, and says the Viceroy wishes first to know if the Pope has any authority from the other confederates for making peace, as his orders were to prosecute the war till a universal peace was concluded. The Viceroy has gone to Naples, Pompey Colonna to S. Germano, and Vespasian ad fundos ut dicitur quo se instruant. | |
| The Venetians would be content with a long truce, which he thinks the Viceroy will not grant, because this army is for the Emperor's last attempt, and it could not be kept so long. | |
| The Viceroy sent to ask the Pope whether he should come to Rome, or his Holiness send to Naples. Does not think the Viceroy will allow the Colonnas to be thus cast out, and the Pope says he would rather die than pardon them. | |
| Toscanus and Lange wish the Pope to send a person of the long robe into France, and they urge him not to do anything till a resolution comes thence; but he will say nothing, except that he will not treat with the Imperialists except on extreme [necessity]. | |
| He is often told that now the Germans are departing Florence is safe. He, however, thinks they are marching by Pontremole toward Florence. He wishes neither to have any promise from the French king, nor to ask him anything, that he may not be bound to him. In short, he thinks of nothing but peace or truce, and, if possible, that the Venetians may join. | |
| Lat., pp. 4. | |
| 12 Dec. Calig. D. IX. 284. B. M. |
2705. CLERK and GHINUCCI to [WOLSEY]. |
| Worcester arrived on Wednesday last. Went with him in the afternoon to the King. As touching Worcester's going into Spain, Francis offered to send a brief for him to take with him, saying that all their papers were ready for the matter to be treated in Spain. We reminded him that the contracting powers had written to the king of England to be a mediator, and were willing to send their commissions into England. He said at that time the commissions had not arrived in Spain. On my asking him when they were sent, he said when the Emperor was requested by the confederates to enter the league. I reminded him that the confederates had no such powers, and if any had been sent since without my master's knowledge, I did not know how he would take it. I urged that it was necessary to resort to mediation, by which more would be gained from the Emperor. He repeated very seriously his many obligations to the king of England, and his hopes that he would continue his friend; that he reckoned to obtain his children better cheap by the King's mediation than otherwise, and he desired Worcester to see if this could be agreed to. "As for the commissions, he could not deny b[ut] they were sent now very lately, but he could s[carce] have the patience to suffer ne to make many persuasions [unto] him in the matter; and bade us hold our peace two or three [times], saying that it was no need to speak so much, or to ma[ke] so many reasons unto him in that matter." Finding it useless, we forbore, specially that it might not appear that the King's highness coveted this mediation. | |
| They pretend to be very desirous that the King should have the handling of this matter, that both the French and the Emperor "do savour and smell how fain and prone ye be to join and conclude this matrimony with France," and consequently hinder the Emperor's purpose, and retard the delivery of the children. Besides, neither the Pope nor the Italians will consent that the duke of Bari be removed from Milan, and the dukedom be given to Bourbon, as was talked of in England; and Francis is of the same way of thinking. And from jealousy and fear of small assistance from England, they have blown in the French king's ears, and induced him to please the Emperor, and sent their commissions into Spain without consulting England. At first Francis opposed a plan suggested by Ghinucci for the duchy, afterwards he proposed it to the confederate ambassadors, who said they had no commission for depositing it in the King's hands, and they thought it would be strongly opposed by the present Duke, and induce him to go over to the Emperor. To avoid suspicion, agreed not to broach the question of marriage with my lady Princess, except incidentally. "And so, after long communication, my said lord of Worcester, making semblance to have fully declared his credence, and also semblance to take his leave for that season, I said, 'My Lord, ye have yet o[ne] matter to talk of more.' He said, 'What is that?' I said, 'Concerning my lady Princess and the perpetual peace.'" Then Worcester enlarged on the advantage of the marriage proposed by England, and asked for his resolution on that head. Francis generally repeated his obligations to England. There was nothing on earth he so much desired; but as "he must do his things with some colour," to give the Emperor some satisfaction, he would send some one to him to require Madame Eleanora, and if she were denied he would accept the other offer. We did not fail to urge the point with all arguments; and I added, if he did not have her "he might fortune to see her married in such place where he would be loth to see her." As he expects her for one of his children, he cares less to refuse her for himself. Could make no progress with the King and my Lady; and though she said that her son should not demand Madame Eleanora, but protest only, she has said that to have the children and be at rest and peace. If no other way would suffice, "the King her son should not stick to take the Emperor's sy[ster] and three such more, were they never so old or otherwise evil qualified. And the King showed us plainly that he would, rather than fail of his children, marry the Emperor's mule, not only his sister." It is no use offering to recover the children by war. | |
| Details news of the proceedings in Italy. They have letters from Spain "that the Emperor maketh demonstration to be very angry with the dealing of don [Hugo] and the Colonyses against the Pope, and to purge that matter sendeth new ambassadors to Rome." Paulus de Aretio has been allowed to depart. Card. Colonna is deprived. The Pope complains that he has not received the 20,000 ducats per mensem as promised, and is in great perplexity. The King is hunting, and will not be here till Christmas. Poysy beside St. Germains, 12 Dec. Signed. | |
| Mutilated, pp. 16. | |
| 12 Dec. Vesp. C. III. 301. B. M. |
2706. LEE to WOLSEY. |
| Received the King's letters to the Emperor and the king of Portugal, and Wolsey's, dated 6 Nov. Went to court, and told the Emperor that in consequence of the letters of Sir John Wallop, the King, fearing Christendom to be in great danger, could not fail to exhort all princes to use their efforts against the Turks; and as the Emperor is the highest prince in Christendom, he exhorted him to set an example which others should follow. The Emperor replied that the King would learn his good mind in this respect by the post, and that no new occasion had happened for this exhortation, as he had received letters from don Ferdinand on the 28th Oct., in which no other mention was made, except of the Turk being at Buda. Nevertheless, he would put himself in readiness. The King wins great praise for his zeal in this matter; and, as one great and wise man here said unto me, his behaviour herein "maketh him dominatorem Christiani orbis, for that all princes now weigh as he weigheth." Is assured by the Emperor that the Bohemians have accepted don Ferdinand for their king. Granada, 12 Dec. | |
| Hol., pp. 3. Add.: To my lord Legate's grace. | |
| Harl. 295, f. 129. B. M. | 2. Copy of the same. |
| 12 Dec. Calig. D. IX. 279. B. M. |
2707. CLERK to WOLSEY. |
| * * * "To show your Grace what I think in these matters, I see ... that these confederates, upon what ground I cannot tell, bu[t] by sending their commissioners all into Spain it should app[ear] that they be all contented to have the matter treated th[ere]." Although the French king pretends he is sending into Spain only to demand Madame Eleanora, he doubtless intends to treat for peace. 2ndly, however obstinate the powers in Italy may be about Milan, they are expecting peace; for if the French king is contented to restore Bourbon, marry Eleanora, pay the ransom for his children, and the Emperor does not demand Burgundy, being anxious for peace from fear of the Turk, they are in good train for it. If Francis pardons Bourbon, why should not the Emperor pardon the duke of Milan? 3rdly, Francis evidently expects the restitution of his children, and consequently peace. For the payment required for the former is nothing in comparison with what it would cost to recover them by war. To relieve himself, therefore, he will offer a large sum to the Emperor. 4thly, to carry his point, he insists on certain conditions with the Italians, which are not likely to be arranged. I have told their orators here that they must consider the Frenchmen's nature, and how little inclined they would be to a new war, and unlikely to stick with them; but for ought that he can say, "they remain s[till] in their good opinion. I pray God they be not deceived. I assure your Grace it is greatly [to be] feared; for he that will marye a moyll rather th[an make] war for his children, and take so moche off h[is rights], and forbear so much off his own pleasure, rather [than] be deferred of his intent in that behalf, surely [it is] to be thought that he will not stick to borrow s[lights] of his neighbours." | |
| If the French king "keep touch," no peace will be concluded. The Italians and the Emperor are obstinate. Then there will be need of mediation; and Francis acknowledges that it would be better for the treaty to be made in England, for if it be made in Spain, it will lie with the Emperor to order himself as he has good or evil news. If the Emperor demands too large a sum, thinks they will never agree. This is my opinion touching Worcester's instructions:—though Francis may make proposals for my lady Princess, he is doubtless resolved to marry Madame Eleanora. My Lady assured me that Madame Eleanora "hath clearly changed her widow's apparrel, and causeth herself to be called the French queen; and she maketh [mention] of the children as of her sons." There is also a great suspicion here that through her means practices have been made in France by secret messengers. Is told by the Legate that when Francis was in Spain he seemed to have great pleasure in Madame Eleanora's company; and to this day he speaks now and then very good and pleasant words of her. This is a sign that he sets more by her than he would have known to us. When, however, he compares her with my lady Princess, the latter "weights down the balance by a great n[umber] of ounces." Poyssy beside St. Germain's, 12 Dec. Signed. | |
| Sends Wolsey's bulls. | |
| Mutilated, pp. 9. | |
| 14 Dec. R. O. |
2708. JOHN BISHOP OF LINCOLN to WOLSEY. |
| Thanks him for his kindness when last with him. Apologises for not sending sooner his steward, master Stokes, whom Wolsey consented, at his request, to take into his service, as he had no one else to oversee his little house in his absence. "He is well learned, a good preacher, a good husband in a house," wise and virtuous, &c. Ledington, 14 Dec. | |
| Hol., p. 1. Add.: To my lord Legate. | |
| 15 Dec. R. O. St. P. I. 185. |
2709. WOLSEY to HENRY VIII. |
| Advertises the King of the successes against the Imperialists, and the persecution of the Pope against the Colonnas, which will induce the Emperor to listen to peace. Grave Hans Von Savenburge, brother of the marquis of Brandenburg, was on the 11th of November last chosen king of Hungary, and will stoutly oppose the Archduke. This will give additional encouragement to the Turks. Hampton Court, 15 Dec. | |
| R. O. St. P. I. 186. | 2. News from Italy. |
| Letters have come from France of the victory of the allied fleet over the Imperial on the 22nd ult. Of 32 ships, 16 have been taken or sunk. The rest fled, pursued by Pietro Navarra. The Germans have also been defeated "ad locum Petræ," in the Veronese Alps. The remaining German infantry, frightened at the difficulties of the passage, and at this defeat, have retreated. | |
| The Pope proceeds hotly in punishing the Colonnas. He has destroyed almost all their places, except one strong fort, which he hopes to take. | |
| There have arrived at Rome 1,500 chosen hackbutmen, sent by Giovanni de Medici. They will suffice not merely for punishing the Colonnas, but also for attacking the expedition against Naples. | |
| Lat., p. 1. In Vannes' hand. Address pasted on, in same hand as Wolsey's letter: To the King's most noble grace, defensour of the Faith. | |
| 15 Dec. R. O. |
2710. DR. PELL. |
|
15 Dec. 18 Hen. VIII. |
|
| Suffolk.—Examination before Sir John Dauncy and Thos. Lucas, of Henry Barnabe of Cavendisshe besides Glemsford, John Hegeman of Glemsford, and John Goldyng of Caundisshe, concerning three suspected persons, one of whom was Sir Lewes, chaplain to one Colt, who were in church and at an alehouse on the Sunday before Our Lady day, the Nativity, when Dr. Thos. Pelle, parson of Glemsford, "denounced them accursed that had fished his waters." It was reported that his waters were not fished, but that he did so for grudge that his parishioners refused to pay him the tithes he demanded, 3s. yearly for every plough. | |
| 15 Dec. 18 Hen. VIII. | |
| Sussex.—Examinations, before Daunce and Lucas, of John Rede of Rotherfeld, keeper of Frankham park, Thos. Wasshenesse of Frank, keeper of Erege park, Thos. Morley and George Maynard of Rotherfeld, keepers of Waterdown park, and Robt. Fermor of Rotherfeld, all servants to lord Abervagenny, who confess to stealing three peacocks from the house of John Maynard at Rotherfeld, and to killing deer in the forest of Asshedown. They deny that their master knew anything of it. | |
| Pp. 5. Add.: To my lord Cardinal's good Grace. Endd.: The confession of John Barnabe and other afore Sir John Dance and lieutenante of the Towre. | |
| 16 Dec. Vit. B. XXI. 12. B. M. |
2711. SIR JOHN WALLOP to HACKET. |
| After leaving Cologne for Esslyng, met a gentleman near Mayence, coming from Vienna. Heard from him that don Ferdinand was elected king of Bohemia on Oct. 23, and marquis of Crabete, duke of Slesye, and marquis of Lusasye. The Hungarians of the Low Country have elected as their king the earl of Wydar. It is said that it was he who fled from the King in the battle with 30,000 men. The Hungarians will not have any stranger for king. Will not pass Vienna till he has his letters of exchange, unless there is chance of war against the Turks. It is thought there is more likelihood of war between Ferdinand and the new king of Hungary. Hopes Hacket has received his last letter from Cologne. Byng (Bingen), three miles from Menss. (fn. 9) | |
| Has left behind his secretary, Twychet, sick. | |
| Hol., p. 1. Add.: To master Hacket, ambassador with my lady Margaret, "yn der Engs Hous upt der Bursen." | |
| Vit. B. XXI. 16*. B. M. | 2. Articles of the news that are come to me out of Almain. |
| At the Imperial council at Spires there was a consultation made by the Emperor whether the donation by the emperor Constantine to pope Silvester was valid or not, and if by virtue thereof the Pope can call himself lord of Rome. The answer was Nay. | |
| (Note in the margin.)—Written to Mons. de Langey from Almain, and from Italy by the card. du Bellay, his brother. | |
| The Pope having ascertained this report to be true, fears that the Emperor, on pretence of visiting St. Peter and St. Paul, will assume the lordship of Rome. An Englishman has passed on his way to the Emperor, which has increased the Pope's alarm, who fears the king of England will agree with the Emperor, and that they both will attack him. | |
| (Marginal note.) Probably the archdeacon of Lincoln's servant. | |
| If the kings of France and England maintain the Pope in this fear, "there is no mistrust but the ... should repair such things as have been done ag[ainst the King o]f England for to reconciliate h[im] and ... two Kings to strength * * * | |
| (Marginal note.) The card. du Bellay's advertisements. | |
| P. 1, mutilated. Endd.: Copy of news from Sir John Wallop, translated from French [into] English. | |
| [16 Dec.] R. O. |
2712. KNIGHT to HENNAGE. |
| Inquired of my Lord, before he left Westminster, when the dean of Paul's should wait upon him. He said he should have most leisure at Hampton Court. Mr. Pace was very glad to hear this, and wished Knight to get my Lord to appoint a day for the said Dean's attendance; for Mr. Pace is subject to sickness, and cannot get his natural sleep, by reason of his late disease, and if he should come when Wolsey was too busy to see him it might increase his illness. Thinks he would be relieved if he could get an interview. The King returns to Greenwich on Wednesday, and Knight will go to London on Tuesday, and bring Pace to Hampton Court. Croydon, third Sunday in Advent. | |
| Hol., p. 1. Add. | |
| 19 Dec. S. B. |
2713. For JOHN VEER, EARL OF OXFORD. |
| To be Great Chamberlain of England. Del. Westm., 19 Dec. 18 Hen. VIII. | |
| 20 Dec. R. O. |
2714. JAMES V. to WOLSEY. |
| Has written to Henry to ask for licence for his servant Alex. Kay to buy victuals for his household in England. Asks Wolsey to further this request. Edinburgh, 20 Dec. 14 Jas. V. Signed. | |
| P. 1. Add. | |
| 20 Dec. Vit. B. VIII. 176. B. M. |
2715. [GIBERTO to GAMBARA?] |
| ... ad .. die vii. quod S. D.N. expectabat aliquod res[ponsum] a Rege, quod cum videretur nimis tardare et ex alia parte in ... Presbyterum Pompeium et cæteros Columnenses cum magno exer[citu] in confinibus regni, existimareturque ipsos jam cepisse Cepe[ranum et] Pontemcorvum, claves, ut scitis, Campaniæ." | |
| The Pope thought it was not good to wait longer without any provision, and determined to send the archbishop of Capua to Naples, as he wished to know the Viceroy's mind, and had no safe-conduct. He left ... evening. This morning letters came from the general of St. Francis, saying, that he had found him in a disposition for peace, and that on the 8th he would come towards the Pope;—who immediately wrote to the Archbishop to return, if they met, but if he was near the end of his journey, to go on and say that his visit to the Viceroy was merely one of ceremony; meanwhile to find out what he had brought from the Emperor, but to make no mention of truce or p[eace]. | |
| Cannot see what will happen. It is certain that if the Pope were stronger, he would be more promptly [helped] by his friends, "nundum vellet convenire cum e[vid]enter ... Italia nunc collum supponat jugo Cæsaris, ipsi dari orbis mo[ndi] ... quæ monarchia, cum impediri non possit, etiamsi sua Sanctitas Ro[mam] relinquat, quam rem solam facere potest, si nolit convenire." He thinks it a less evil to remain here by any means he can than to leave his See, by which no good would come to others, and much harm to himself. One hope remains, that when the kings of England and France and Wolsey know in what great danger all Italy and the Pope are, since the arrival of the Germans and the fleet, they will be roused to give prompt and vigorous assistance. If so, we shall be preserved, or be able to accept less unjust terms. If nothing comes, the Pope will fall without hope of recovery, with the sole consolation of having done as much as he could, and persevered to the last. His Holiness has ordered 3,000 foot to be raised, as those in the neighbourhood do not seem strong enough to resist the great preparations made in the kingdom. Cardinal Triulzi is sent as legate to the army, and has started today. | |
| In Lombardy, the Germans, leaving Parma on the right, make as if they were going to Pavia, but it is uncertain whether they will go there or the Spaniards join them to carry out the proposed expeditions. They have made a bridge over the Po at Stella, which will serve for either purpose. Piacenza is strong enough, but it is feared they may come to Tuscany, where there is no means of resisting. The Pope is in such want of money that he has pledged his paternal house in the Romagna. The misfortunes of this war have so lessened the Pope's authority that it is probable Florence will accept terms of the Imperialists without the Pope. Puts his trust in Wolsey, and desires his correspondent to commend him to his Grace. | |
| "... postea rediit Rev. Generalis S. Francisci et ... ne inclinationis ad pacem quam scribebat se inveni ... st, quod contentatur devenire ad suspensionem armorum per aliq ..." if money is given him (sc. the Viceroy) to pay his army, and the citadels of Ostia and Civita Vecchia, or Parma and Piacenza, as security for the observance of the truce. He offers, however, no security to the Pope, except his word. The terms are as unfair as if he were besieging the Pope in the castle; but the Pope's desire for peace is so great that if he can obtain a truce in no other way, he will be content to satisfy one of the Viceroy's demands for security of its observance. The payment of money seems to him too harsh, for if he had money he could spend it better in war, but if he is not helped by his friends he must accept any terms. Thinks these demands may be moderated. The Pope does not despair of obtaining this truce with greater profit to himself, if the enemy, while talking of the treaty, do not prepare for war, or if he has any means of making preparations for his defence, "quemadmodum haberet ... istic. Intellecto adventu certo Germ[anorum et] classis, fuisset facta resolutio nobis subveniendi, ne pe ... cum hac spe impetum hostium, quamdiu poterimus, sustinebi[mus]." | |
| P.S.—Thinks there will be nothing to displease Wolsey in the truce, "nisi im ... conditionum, cum quibus vereor etiam, ne illas cogamur accipere cu ... Rma D. sua inducias in cæteris approbaverit, et minimam [recuperandi fi]liorum spem habeamus." Desires to be commended to Wolsey. | |
| 20 Dec. The terms proposed by the General, in the Viceroy's name, seem severe, but the Pope is more displeased with what the archbishop of Capua writes from Naples on the 15th. "Siquidem in propositione Generalis vide ... saltem Sanctitas sua se cum aliqua turpitudine et damno suo lu[crari] tempus et commoditatem aliis confœderatis, in quo possent mat ... tractare pacem universalem," which, without doubt, would have followed, [if,] as was the Pope's intention, a universal suspension of arms had been concluded for six months. The signory of Venice consented to it, and it was hoped that the French king would do the same. "Nunc scir ... archiepiscopus contentari quidem viceregem convenire, sed cum sua Sanctitate so ... Illa tamen etiam sibi dante magnam summam pecuniarum et in pignu[s] ... manendi in pace fienda aut duas ... quas postulabat etiam pro induciis, etsi Veneti volent ... pacem, dabit cum eisdem conditionibus, viz. pignoris et p[ecuniæ]." Otherwise, he (the Viceroy) says, he will not lay down his arms, and throw away the opportunity fortune has given him. The Archbishop enlarges on the dangers to which the Pope will be exposed if he prosecutes the war, or overlooks his own affairs for the sake of others. His Holiness is in a worse strait than he was a few days ago; for he sees that he must do one of three things,—either protect himself for some time, which he cannot do of himself, and does not expect his friends to help him; or flee, by which the possessions of Rome and the States of the Church would be left to the Emperor, who would use them to subdue the rest of Italy, and then France, so as gradually to obtain the sole power, which he covets; or, make a treaty, which would be most disagreeable to him, not on account of his own loss and disgrace in accepting such unjust terms, and remaining in slavery at the Emperor's discretion, but because if he alone made peace the war would still continue amongst the others, and he would despair of an universal peace. In these difficulties he causes delays, that he may be free as long as possible, nor come to such unjust terms "nisi quantum [nece]ssit[a]s coegerit." His enemies do not desist from preparing to attack him, in consequence of these negotiations. The Colonnese have made a camp, and taken Ceprano (Ceperanum) and Pontecorvo, and other lands. | |
| Vitelli proposed to bring back our forces to two or three [places] nearer to Rome. In Lombardy the Germans have given us time to fortify ... Parma and Placentia, and other towns, as they have gone towards Pavia. It is thought the Spaniards will cross the Po to join them for some new expedition. | |
| On the 13th the Germans were still at Borgo S. Donini. The marquis of Saluzzo, who was about to cross the Po to aid the Papal States, had moved his camp from Treni. | |
| Considering the danger and want, it will not be wonderful if they are driven to some dishonorable treaty, but [the Pope] waits to see what comes from England or France, when the arrival of the Germans and the fleet is known. "Galli maxime qu ... [r]uinam ita imminentem eorum capiti quemadmodu[m] ... non sunt tamen adeo procul quod ipsi etiam non sint opprimendi ..." The Pope has not only exerted himself beyond his power, but has a thousand times protested to his friends, so that none of them have any excuse. The arrival of Renzo and the fleet is to our necessity as a fly to an elephant. Sends salutations to Wolsey, their only hope. | |
| Lat., mutilated, pp. 8. | |
| 20 Dec. Vit. B. VIII. 180. B. M. |
2716. NEWS from ITALY. |
| As soon as the archbishop (of Capua) had departed, news came that Renzo had come with 20,000 cr., and that the fleet was bringing 25,000 cr. and 3,000 foot from France. The lanzknechts have gone to join those in Pavia, leaving Florence. The Florentines are collecting money. Count Filippino writes from Genoa that the city suffers from famine. The Pope has determined that the galleys here shall go thither and try an attack in company with the French fleet. | |
| D. Albertus (Carpi) and D. Toscanus went to the Pope to dissuade him from acceding to the Viceroy's proposed terms, which were, a truce for six months, and the Pope to deliver Parma, Piacenza or Ostia, and Civita Vecchia, and a sum of money;—which last, however, the General said, might be dispensed with. The Viceroy also offered a dumb son of his as a hostage to the Pope. His Holiness spoke of his necessity, and the impossibility of resisting the Viceroy's wishes, and thought it the greatest good fortune to have any truce. D. Albertus showed him that the surrender of Parma and Piacenza would give assured victory to the Viceroy, who, leaving the expedition of Bologna and Modena to the duke of Ferrara, would attack Florence and Rome without resistance; he would distribute his troops among the towns, and extort great sums of money; and that if tbe Pope did not accede to these terms, the Imperial army would with difficulty get through the winter. The Pope, however, could not be moved. They then asked him to gain time by negotiations, but he showed them letters from the Florentines, saying that if he did not agree they would. | |
| Vitelli writes that they will have to retreat to Rome if the Colonnese attack them with a strong army. | |
| Sir Gregory told the Pope that as he could not continue the war, nothing was better than peace, but he must beware of accepting a truce too much to the Viceroy's advantage, for that would make peace more difficult, and the victory of the Imperialists more certain. He thinks the Pope will take the truce, if he can, without the payment of money. | |
| The reply of the Archbishop is waited for. | |
| A papal nuncio, who has just come from Naples, says that the Viceroy said to him, "Pontifex privavit Columnam, et Columna privabit Pontificem." | |
| All the councillors there cry out against the Pope. | |
| Card. Colonna has cited the Pope to appear at Spires, by virtue of a bull of Julius. | |
| "Jam sunt tres dies, ex quo dum Pontifex m ... esset, illud ingressus fuit Aguilera Cæsareu ... agens et secretarius Peres." He read publicly the Emperor's answers to the brief sent by the Pope when he first entered the treaty, and asked his Holiness to grant a council; if he refused, the Cardinals would be asked to do so, and to summon the Pope. The Pope will answer the Emperor's letter, but will not create cardinals, probably because the French king and other princes would suppose he had made much money thereby, and be more careless of helping him. | |
| The 20,000 cr. have not come. The French chancellor writes to D. Albertus about the tenth, saying nothing of the Germans. These letters have not been shown to the Pope. The Venetians have not sent the duke of Urbino against the Germans, nor has the marquis of Saluzzo gone towards Piacenza. | |
| ii. Extract from letters of Sir Gregory [Casale], dated Dec. 20. | |
| The Pope, on hearing from the archbishop of Capua the resolution of the Viceroy, sent for D. Albertus and Sir Gregory. Both thought very ill of it, the Viceroy evidently wishing to put the Pope off his guard. D. Albertus advised the Pope to recall suddenly the archbishop of Capua. The Pope proposed two courses,—to flee, or to make a treaty,—both of which seemed unadvisable. Defence seemed the best way, and money would be obtained by the creation of cardinals. Although his Holiness says that cardinals must not be created for money, still it is thought he will come to it at last. | |
| "Pontifex in hoc se resolvit ut se def[endat] quousque poterit et quousque vicerex rescrips[erit] ad literas Generalis qui, ut ait, certus de Cæs[aris] animo, uberrime ad viceregem scripsit." | |
| Almost all the cardinals desire peace. The General warns the Viceroy not to drive the Pope to despair. Fears the Viceroy will delude both the Pope and the General. Philip Strozzi and the other Florentines give the same advice as the archbishop of Capua. | |
| Bourbon has sent his almoner to tell the Pope that the lanzknechts will not be used to his injury, and to persuade him to peace. He writes also to the Viceroy to ask him to make truce with the Pope, or send 20,000 cr. to pay the lanzknechts. | |
| The Pope complains that after all his calamities he has received nothing but words from the French king. | |
| As to the suspension of arms and the contribution proposed by the general of St. Francis, ... answered that nothing had been said about the suspension of arms unless peace was first made with the Pope and the other Italian potentates. The General, therefore, does not seem to be speaking the truth. When peace has been concluded with the Pope, in order that a universal peace may ensue, a suspension of arms can be negotiated with other potentates. There will then be time to contribute and pay money to maintain the Imperial army. As to the securities which the Archbishop desired, it was answered that the General was fully instructed as to the mind of the Viceroy and don Hugo. The Viceroy wishes to have, as security during the suspension of arms, Parma and Piacenza from the Pope, and Bresca from the Venetians. To the Archbishop's request as to what conditions and contributions would be exacted if the Pope resolved on peace, it was answered that the Emperor desired a firm peace, and the General had full instructions. The Viceroy will not refuse to come to Rome. | |
| Lat., pp. 2. Vannes' hand. | |
| 20 Dec. R. O. |
2717. The ELECTORS OF GERMANY to HENRY VIII. |
| Some of the electors left today, as the business of the diet is nearly finished; and the remainder were on the point of leaving, when the King's letters dated Greenwich, 31 Oct., were given to them. Did not easily understand them, but are glad to see his desire to assist Christendom in its present distress, and to resist the Turk. Will do what they can for the same object, and have deliberated thereon in the present diet. It has been determined to hold another diet at Ratisbon, on 1 April next, to arrange an attack on the Turks. Esslingæ, 20 Dec. 1526. | |
| Lat., pp. 2. Add. Endd. | |
| 20 Dec. Vit. B. XXI. 13. B. M. |
2718. [HERMAN RYNGK to HENRY VIII.] |
| Received his letter by Wallop on Nov. 30. Has sent one of his servants, named John Geylkyrch, with the King's letter to the archbishop of Mayence. Has sent the letter to George duke of Saxony, by Gerart of Campon, his secretary. The Archbishop is at present at Eslyng, whither Wallop is gone. The duke of Westphalia and the archbishop of Cologne have desired him to bring Wallop to make merry, and to hunt wild boars at Bruel Castle. Ten boars were taken, of which his Grace gave Wallop and Ryngk two of the best. The Archbishop showed great cheer to Pace at the election of the emperor Charles. He commended the King's intention to help them against the Turks, saying that he was worthy to be elected king of the Romans. The king of Bohemia, the archduke Ferdinand, sends to the King his treasurer, Salamanco, count of Urdenburge. Hears that the Archduke will be made king of Hungary. It is not likely the Turks will stop in Hungary, for the great Sofi gives them enough to do. | |
| Sends daily the news to his son Herman Ryngk in England. Cologne, 20 Dec. 1526. | |
| Mutilated, pp. 2. Endd. | |
| Vit. B. XXI. 15. B. M. |
2719. The LUTHERANS IN GERMANY. |
| The meeting at Moynforth, "in Porcorum Valle," was put off till the present week. "Convenere cum duobus electoribus, Maguntino et Pal[atino], lantgravius Hassiæ (fn. 10) et dux Saxoniæ primogenitus Jo[hannis] Electoris cujus pollex dextri pedis amputatus fuit, quia gangrena correptus erat, quæ postmodum versa erat in facetum seu syderationem" (paralysis). Many say he is already dead. The terms offered to the Lutherans are,—to restore the goods of the ecclesiastics; to allow Catholic preachers to preach publicly; and to forbid the future marriage of ecclesiastics, those now married to remain until a future council, which the writer thinks will take place at the Greek calends. Does not expect they will admit the first condition. At the close of this meeting they will all come hither to swear fealty to the king of the Romans. | |
| There is no certain news of the Turk's arrival. The Emperor is arranging everything both here and in Italy. Many German captains are assembled here, and men will be easily raised in a month, especially if there is ready money. The Emperor has determined to march straight against the Turk himself, with 100,000 foot and 15,000 horse, including the 40,000 foot and 8,000 horse promised him by the German princes at the diet of Augsburg, as soon as the Turk attacked the limits of the empire. The rest he will provide from the ransom of the French king. Fears the Turk may shut himself up in some strong place, and with his cavalry cut off the supplies of his besiegers. | |
| The Italian coast is so well fortified that his fleet could only land in shallow and dangerous places, and could make no great incursions. The marquis of Guasto, who has now set out for Romagna, and will go thence to Tronto, would be ready to attack them. Andrea Auria (Doria) is also ready with his fleet. Letters of the 12th ult. state that a Turkish ambassador had arrived at Venice; but he can say nothing further, for his last letters from Venice are dated the 11th. "Pedites (sic) existimatur permutationem Corcyræ insulæ aut alicujus portus neutorum (sic, q. Venetorum?) in alium quendam locum in Græcia longe meliorem." Does not think the Venetians will allow this, as it would give the Turk facilities for attacking Italy and even themselves. Mons. de Baury is sent to Rome, Mons. de Prat to Venice, and perhaps Francis Riceus to Poland. Mons. de Balanzon starts today for France, and Mons. Monfauconet, a noble of Savoy, to the king [of England], to ask for help against the Turks, or at least to request the King not to hinder the Emperor by war. Erasmus Auria left for Genoa six days ago. John Rens, chief treasurer for the war, will go hither tomorrow. 150,000 ducats have been sent thither from hence, and 100,000 from Spain. The Pope continually urges the French king to make an expedition to Africa of Syria. | |
| Lat., copy, pp. 4. | |