BHO

Henry VIII: March 1527, 21-31

Pages 1333-1352

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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March 1527

21 March.
R. T. 137. R. O.
2974. The FRENCH AMBASSADORS IN LONDON to FRANCIS I.
Were expecting to hear from the Cardinal the conclusion he had come to with the King his master, when Wolsey sent for Douarti and De Vaulx on Monday morning, the 18th. He received them with a "visaige assez megre," and began talking of a proposal made by the Venetian ambassador touching a year's truce, which the Pope thinks he could arrange with the viceroy of Naples. This, he said, would be very injurious to France:—the best plan was the conclusion of the marriage. He then sent for the Papal and Venetian ambassadors, and said the same thing in their presence, adding that his master had of old helped the Pope and the League for the sake of France, and was willing now to help him even with money, if France, the Pope, and Venice would bind themselves not to treat with the Emperor without his knowledge. Douarti and De Vaulx promised to talk with the other ambassadors about this. Wolsey then returned to the subject of the marriage, saying the King his master insisted on the said two demands being complied with before entering into any negociations, and that he knew the objections raised by Francis arose merely out of his desire to marry Madame Eleanor; and if so, we should say it boldly, and he would get his master to agree to it, when they could dispose of the Princess to the duke of Orleans.
On the 19th, the Cardinal sent for them in presence of the same commissioners as before, except Suffolk. He asked De Tarbe and De Turenne if they were well enough lodged, otherwise he would make better arrangements for them. They said, only too well, if their master's affairs went rightly, and begged that he would think about giving them a speedy dispatch, not lodging them. They said they were surprised at what he had said to Douarty and De Vaulx the preceding day, and did not know what condition he was going to affix to the marriage, and, but for their uncertainty on this point, they would have settled the League and the transport of the Princess. He said his demands must be satisfied before anything was done. They replied that this seemed strange, as they knew no good means to communicate it to Francis, and were not sure, considering the ages of the King and Queen, that the Princess would be left their heir; whereas Wolsey had always promised "que pour l'advenir vous le payeriez a vos heritiers." Wolsey said "que nous missions aux descendans de vous et d'elle;" which they thought would be more reasonable. But on this he said he had spoken without commission, but they might make overtures on the subject, which he would gladly hear. He then talked for a time with his councillors. The ambassadors then withdrew to the Cardinal's chamber, where he began an oration to them, saying that the King and he had read the letters written to them by Francis, and shown them to the Council, whereby they perceived the great difficulty Francis had made in conceding their demands, while those put forward by the French were not less; on which account the King had commanded them to say that without that (sans cela) the marriage could not take effect. He assured them, however, that the King was anxious to satisfy Francis, if it could be done.
On this the ambassadors began to speak less coldly, saying that they had been prevented by their instructions hitherto from conceding the demands made on them; but that they would enter into the conditions of the marriage, and, if satisfied about them and the offensive league, Francis would grant something reasonable, qualified, however, for his heirs and successors. Wolsey afterwards said this article was nothing, and again insisted on the two demands as necessary before anything else. On the subject of the "traduction" of the Princess, they had a good deal of discussion, Wolsey insisting that it should not be till she was of marriageable age, which time Madame and the queen of England were to judge of. As to the offensive league, after being much pressed for his opinion, he replied that it ought to be treated of along with the peace and marriage, after which England and France could send ambassadors to the Emperor to require him to enter, "à la delivrance de nosses (noces)," with honorable conditions, which if he refuse, they can both declare war. It is true he could not make war till the end of June. The ambassadors, nevertheless, ventured to offer the 15,000 crowns, during the life of this King;—an offer which Wolsey treated as if they had presented him with a pair of gloves, obstinately insisting that if they would contract marriage, they must commence "par la," and that Francis's refusal to do so could only be from his desire to marry Madame Eleanor. The ambassadors said if Francis had any such desire, he did [not ?] require mediators, for he might have her whenever he pleased. Perceiving that he was not willing to do anything to Francis's mind, the ambassadors took leave of Wolsey about two o'clock, till which hour he had made them fast. After dinner, De Tarbe, Douarty and De Vaulx returned to Wolsey to know if, in case Francis on being written to should agree to their demands, the English would make the traduction promptly, keeping surely the offensive league on their side, or at least pretending to do so,—in order to make the English think that they themselves were sincere. Wolsey, though he received them at first with a cordial countenance, supposing that they brought him better news, at once declared that if Francis gave half his realm they would not give up the Princess at once, but that he should wait till she was 14. At last he told them that it should be referred to the two Queen mothers before mentioned.
As to the propositions formerly made by Feu Guilhen (Fitzwilliam), he would have nothing to say to them, declaring that Francis should neither give nor receive hostages, but must trust the promise of the King and of his Lords. He reminded them of what had been done to Madame Margaret, and said that in this case Francis could marry her in France or elsewhere, as he pleased. The ambassadors objected that the French had no surety, in case of Henry's death, of having the Princess when she came of age, and asked what in that case would become of the 50,000 crowns and the salt. The English replied, that in that case the promise would be null, and again said that if Francis had any desire for Eleanor, he should say so, and that some arrangement might be made, either by means of the duke of Orleans, or the duke of Richmond. Considering the terms held by the English, the ambassadors have declined to go further till they hear from Francis. London, 21 March. Signed: De Gramont—De Tarbe—De Turenne—De Urste (Le Viste ?)—De Warty—Joan Joachin.
Fr., copy, Pp. 6. Add.
21 March.
R. O.
2975. SIR ROB. WINGFIELD, RIC. WESTON, CHR. GARNEYS, SIR JOHN HUSEY, and BARTH. TATE to WOLSEY.
According to Wolsey's letters, have taken before them Thos. Kitchen's demands, and have called divers persons to answer his said demands.
Send particulars to his Grace's council. Calais, 21 March. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: To my lord Legate's grace.
22 March.
R. O.
2976. SIR ROB. WINGFIELD to WOLSEY.
Begs Wolsey to pardon his forgetfulness, which is often annexed to years. Sends what should have been enclosed in his letter of yesterday. Calais, 22 March 1526.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
23 March.
R. O.
2977. WOLSEY to the ABBOT OF ST. MARY'S, YORK.
Directs him to deliver to Geo. Lawson, for the repairing of the wall of Berwick, part of which, towards Scotland, has fallen down, such sums of the King's money in his keeping as Lawson shall require. This letter, with the counterpane of an indenture sealed by Lawson for the amount, shall be sufficient discharge. "At my place besides Westminster," 23 March. Signed: "Your lovyng brother, T. Carlis Ebor."
P. 1. Add.
23 March. 2978. WHITBY MONASTERY.
Petition by Wm. Johnson, prior, for the King's assent to the election of John Hexham as abbot, vice Thos. York. Presented to the King by Simon Cottingham and Rob. Woddus. Dated 23 March 1526.
24 March.
R. O.
2979. The DUKE OF RICHMOND'S COUNCIL to WOLSEY.
Send, by the King's command, the presentation to the parsonage of Southmolton, ready sealed and spaced to put in any name at his Highness's pleasure, though they cannot find by any books or precedents, or by report of any of my Lord's officers in the South, that it belongs to him. Cannot attend to the matters addressed to them by Wolsey till after the assize at York, and the business they shall have in Northumberland, which will not be over till Passion week. Have been here nearly fourteen days for the more speedy administration of justice between parties before the assize. York, 24 March. Signed: Brian Higdon—W. Bulmer—T. Magnus—Godfrey Foljambe—William Taite—T. Tempest—Robert Bowys—Jo. Uvedale.
P. 1. Add.
24 March.
Cal. D. X. 34. B. M.
2980. [CLERK] to WOLSEY.
* * * "letters of the 20th, and ... from your Grace, with a cipher, and a letter ... the 21st, and after that I had ripely [pondered and] studied upon the contents in your Grace's sa[id letters, next] day after I went unto the King, who, [upon seeing me,] demanded of me what tidings. I s[aid I had no] letters from your Grace, albeit I said I had l[etters from a] secret friend," who thought that the French ambassadors made too obstinate demur upon ... impossibilities, so that both the King and Wolsey suspected "they had none other c[ommission] but as they spake, and that the King's highness ... demeanor, seeing that partit (sic) specially with th ... tradition of my lady Princess not feasible, [for these and] for many other great respects was minded ... for the marriage of my lady Princess un[to the duke of] Orlyance. He demanded of me, if ... ware, I showed him of the * * * also for his son ... never come thereunto, for he would ... as for the traduction, and the assurance [of my lady] Princess, he said that he did stick therein, as [he thought it] as necessary for the King his brother as for hys [own interests], and that, desiring the said assurance, he could in [no wise] ... unto you to mean well, notwithstanding he said [that] your Grace should order that matter." He much desired to meet Henry, and that the contract and solemnization of the matrimony might be at Calais, not saying much about the consummation or assurance there[of by] the tradition of the Princess or otherwise. He says that if Wolsey will come over to speak with him, he will go to meet him, so that he shall not have many posts to run from Calais.
He likes the other articles, and trusts Henry will likewise.
f. 35. There is no news from Italy. "The provost of Paris, who is one of the [chief] minions about the King, and hath the mayning of [all the] affairs of my lady the French queen, hath shewed h[imself] very diligent in the taking, keeping, and examiny[ng of the] jeweller, who should have sold the King's highness [certain feigne]d stones, whose confession I now send u[nto you. If it] like your Grace to certify me of the * * * ... court where after the King ... ought unto him. I shewed him how ... written unto me the whole process had ... after the arrival of Otwardy (fn. 1) unto the ... upon which day your Grace's letters were dat[ed] ... of me, whether there were any thing more th[an] ... shewed me the day before. I said not much ... strange case to hear that his Majesty should [tell me] that Otwardy should go resolutely for the perpet[ual peace] and for all points, and cause me so to write [, and yet] Otwardy at his coming thither should say h[e had no] commission for the perpetual peace, which was [the princi]pall point he was sent for thither, and that he should say so precisely the thing to be not feasible but [quite] impossible, which thing I said turned greatly [to my] reproach, to cause me to write one thing, and t[hen] his orators there to do the contrary, and that [this thing] hath troubled your Grace's mind very sore as ... in like manner. His answer was that the off[ice of an] ambassador sent to treat, is not to disclose and [make any]thing light at the beginning, but rather [to make it] hard and difficult, and to do the best he ca[n for his master]. I said the next day after your Grace had [called the] ambassadors together, and had ma[ny communications] with them, and disclosed un[to] * * * [commun]ycacion Mons. de Tarbes ... which manner of treating, I said, [was not li]kyd by the King's highness ne by your Grace, [nor was it] conformable to the free, frank, and liberal dea[ling that] he hath professed ever to follow in treating h ... with the King's highness. He answered me that assu[redly his] ambassadors have full and ample commission upon [both] points both salt and pension and commandment ..." but seeing that Wolsey makes an impossibility of delivering the Princess till her lawful age, they kept themselves close in the rest; but, notwithstanding, the salt was offered, and an overture made for the limitation of the pension to heirs of the marriage;—which Wolsey did not dislike. After further excusing his ambassadors, saying that their office is to procure the profit of their master, he finally said that he had already and would again send orders to them to come to a conclusion, and that as to both [the salt and the] pension, he knew "there should be no great distance [between our o]ffre and your demand, and that there * * *
Pp. 4, mutilated.
Cal. D. X. 39. B. M. 2981. [CLERK to WOLSEY.]
* * * "brought so far ... the King's highness should not ... by reason and law might be h ... that he did him great wrong h ... be wayes found for his assurance ... salvegarde of my lady Princess, and for [avoidance] of all such inconvenients as been now [urged by your] Grace on the King's behalf. I demanded [of him what] way that might be, affirming myself [perfectly] assured that if any such way might [be found] he should find the King's highness and your [Grace con]formable. He said I should speak with his mo[ther, for] this was a matter to be treated by women, [and might] better be done in deed than be spoken by m[outh; and he] desired me to speak with his mother, and to [report] your Grace; and I can assure your Grace I never [saw him] so desirous that I should write affectionately [in this matter] as he was at this time. He co[mmanded the] Admiral to bring me to his mother. I [told him] of this messenger now sent by the King['s grace into] Spain, and the cause of his depeche ... grace, he sighed at the matter * * * virtue and in your g ... rs ye will specially now th[at] ... forwards still attend to the performance ... [b]ycause the chancellor Robertet and all the [members of] his counsel been departed to Paris, for ma ... he commanded the Admiral, who the same after[noon wa]s ridden thither for the same purpose, to speak to [the] Chancellor and to Robertett for the making of the [mes]sangier's letters for his passage into Spain and h[ither] again."
f. 40. Thence the Admiral conducted Clerk to my Lady, who bade him write to Wolsey, "her own best beloved whiteson," to remember that he has always been the author of amity between the two Princes, and that she, at his instance, has made endeavors for the same; and she took a great oath, that if it had not been for her, her son, by the advice of his whole cou[ncil], would before this have married lady Elionora. "And said unto me, What a thing should th ... all our communication with you and Mr. Fitzwilli[am] ... ir ment that my lady Princess the ... be delivered by and * * * ... had with me or ... lady Princess's deliverance ... not greatly, there was any, albeit ... might be that there was, but that ... supposed my said Princess to be now ... 12 years, in which case she mought ... [be] delivered 6 or 7 months hereafter w[ithout danger]." She trusted Wolsey would not s[tick in this] matter. She saw no danger. She was married in her 11th year, and many here are married at the same age, without [evil] following. She said ways might be desired for the satisfaction of both parties, that the Princess would be well towards the age of [twelve] by August, that then both Princes might meet with small companies without ceremony or great expense, "that the King hi[r son might] come to Calais and solemnize the matrim[ony, and then] abedde himself for an hour or less w[ith my Lady] princess. Because your Grace may soon ... meaneth, I shall not need to v ... matter. She said that th * * * ... varye she ... son might be assured of h[is wife, the King]'s highness carrying my lady Princess [back with] him unto such time as she should be thought [more] able, should be assured of all such other co ... and inconvenients as been feared." With incredibly fair language, she asked Clerk to write this to Wolsey, which he does, though he thinks it very strange.
Hears nothing more of the person to be sent from Spain, for whom a safeconduct was asked. The Pope's nuncio says that the French king has promised to enter no new league with the Emperor for two months; but no trust can be put in him, "if he see his time thereafter."
f. 36. As he wrote in his last letter, Francis has arrested John Baptista Confelonero, a jeweller, who would have sold to the King's highness cer[tain counter]fected stones. The French king is content ... ation to be sent hither from the * * * saying this assurance ... desired on the King's party as upon ... did not mean well, he would not ... As touching meaning well, I answe[red] ... not now in question, how men be now ... how upon many chances, men might ... hereafter." Touching the overture ma[de by] his mother, said that he thought it very st[range], and knew that Henry and Wolsey would think so too, for [such a case] had not been heard of there, where women came not so soon to the ... He said the law was plain, meaning that ... spoken de doli capace and de proxima pubertati, that it was a case often seen, and that, for the [sake of] peace, men should do the more. (fn. 2) Clerk said he knew the King would do as much as m[ight be], provided he were assured that his d[aughter,] his only heir, should not miscarry [of what] fruit might come by her. He asked Clerk how he thought Wolsey was disposed. Said plainly that his ambassadors' close demeanor had bro[ught the matter] into total despair, and Wolsey thought he was quite disposed to [marry Madame] Elionora, "and that thereupon your [Grace] ... me to offer him my Lady * * * ... with her should lightly ... ryng by all likelihood that she ... o man in talking." Finally, he bade Clerk say that he never had a mind to her, and now less than ever, and that he is now in rupture with th[e Emperor], only in hope of the Princess. He desires the King and Wolsey, "for any prolongation ... past, to hear his orators, which shall speak row[ndly], freely, and frankly" both as to the King's dem[ands] for the peace perpetual, the marriage with my lady Princess, and the offensive league, and he hopes, through Wolsey's mediation, that matters will be brought to the desired end. Hears of no practices with ... The secretary Bayard fell sick on his way hither, and sent his despatch forward. Believes he has himself arrived. The last letters from Rome are of the 26th ult. The lanceknights are still beside Bononye, threatening [to go] Romewards. Peter Navarre has taken several prizes and one great carrack, valued at 30,000 ducats.
Added in Clerk's hand: [Blue] Mantyll has left Paris with his letters of passage ... of this month. He arrived here on the 23rd. "Thus the Almighty God pres[erve you]."
Pp. 6, mutilated. The leaves appear to be in a wrong order in the MS.
Cal. D. IX. 301. B. M. 2. Examination of Gonfalonier, a jeweller, gentleman to Maximilian duke of Milan.
Deposes that he entered upon this business in France about twenty-two or twenty-three years since, and six years ago he sold to Babou, treasurer of Madame the Regent, a diamond for 1,000 crowns. About the same time, he visited England, and sold to the King there fifty "p[ierres ?] rondes pucelles" for 30 crowns a-piece, and some time afterwards being at London to obtain 1,000 crowns, balance of 3,000 cr., from the duke of Su[ffolk] for jewelry, it was then proposed to him by Master Berches, valet-de-chambre to Henry VIII., to go to Milan to recover a balass ruby in the possession of Lautrec, and receive from him for this purpose 600l. stg., giving in security for this sum certain precious stones with a spurious emerald. Did not succeed in his journey, because Lautrec refused to sell the ruby, and returned to England to obtain his debt from the duke of Suffolk, who gave him authority to recover the said sum from Jean Boudet, receiver for the Duchess, which has not been paid. He has never recovered the stones he left with Berches as security, and wrote to him to say that the emerald was not genuine, and he would gladly recover it by paying a portion of the money owing to the duke of Suffolk; but Berches wrote back to say that he did not dare tell the king of England the stone was a false one. Has heard nothing of him since. Says he sold nothing in England, except to the king of England and the duke of Suffolk. Says he has never sold false stones. When the King was lately at Cognac he sold Babou 150,000 crowns worth.
Fr., Pp. 4; mutilated, and apparently incomplete.
24 March.
R. O.
2982. ITALY.
Extracts from the letters of the Prothonotary Casale, 24 March 1526.
The Venetians, who had determined to press the Pope not to agree with the Imperialists, will not enter the treaty now that it is concluded, nor do anything against the wish of the kings of France and England, especially now that they are so united. If the present dangers are to be met, war must be actively commenced before the crops are gathered in. George Salspruk, leader of the Germans, attacked "subita quadam guttæ instillatione," lies at Ferrara at the point of death. The Venetians complain that the Pope did not enter the treaty from necessity, but because he did not wish them and the French to be too powerful in Italy, lest they should gain possession of Naples. The Pope complains of them for not sending on their troops; but they say they did not choose to send them to evident destruction, seeing how inclined his Holiness was for peace; that they did not wish them to have gone so far; and that the Pope only urged their further progress that he might the easier bring the Imperialists to what he wanted. This, they say, they did not deserve from him.
Wyatt is liberated, chiefly by the aid of the duke of Ferrara. The promised departure of the Germans is now expected. It is thought impossible for Bourbon to make them return without money. Hears that Cæsar Feramusca has brought to the camp 30,000 cr., which are thought to have been paid by the Pope, who, it is said, will add another 30,000 cr., though he promised the Imperialists to help them to collect money at Rome.
Neither the Germans nor the Spaniards have yet departed, but Ferrara is being treated with to allow them a safe passage, and to make a bridge over the Po, so that they can cross into Venetian territory. The Duke will grant them a safe-conduct, but will not build a bridge.
Lat., Pp. 2.
24 March.
Er. Ep. p. 971.
2983. ERASMUS to POLYDORE VERGIL.
Is glad that their friendship is so firm; his enemies would have liked to have seen it dissolved. Polydore acts as a mediator between Lee and Erasmus; but Lee's conditions are too hard. Would consent to an amnesty. Basle, 24 March 1527.
Lat.
24 March.
Er. Ep. p. 971.
2984. ERASMUS to ROBERT ALDRIDGE.
Received the Seneca about Lent last. There was no occasion to have sent it. He has been imposed upon by the librarians of the College. They have in the less library another MS., with illuminated initial letters. Will be glad of a collation, but is sorry to trouble him. Basle, 24 March 1527.
Lat.
24 March.
Cal. D. X. 37. B. M.
2985. [CLERK] to WOLSEY.
(The last page of a letter.)
24 Ma[rch].
Last night the King's messenger ... the Admiral and Robertet, and a servant of ... to procure his letters of passage for Spain.
The P.S. in his own hand. Add.: To my lord Legate's good grace. Endd.: 26 March.
25 March.
Vesp. C. IV. 70. B. M.
2986. LEE to HENRY VIII.
Dispatched a servant on the 8th, and sent duplicates of the letters by sea. Could not get another messenger by land, as Spaniards are not allowed to pass the borders of France, or Frenchmen those of Spain; nor will they let the French ambassador's letters go with ours. Some time ago they stopped English merchants, whom the captains of Fountarabia handled somewhat roughly, but Lee obtained a general order from the Emperor in favor of English subjects so long as they do not bring in Frenchmen or Frenchmen's letters. The "contrerelator" who passed through England out of Flanders arrived on the 22 March, bringing letters from don Inigo to the Emperor, but none to us. Don Inigo writes to him what things the French ambassadors, who arrived on the 2 March, proposed to the King, and the King's answer. He informs the Emperor of the entry into the treaty of peace, of the offers of the French, and of what he had disclosed to the King on the Emperor's behalf. They are much pleased at the King's determination to maintain the old alliance. The Chancellor says that the French put off going to England, and would not have gone at all if they had had the answer they looked for from the Emperor. Perhaps he spoke by conjecture, but they evidently know many secrets of the French court. The French ambassador here spread some time ago a rumor of the Queen's death, though by report of the contrerelator she was in good health on the 9th.
The Chancellor said the Pope and Viceroy were agreed, and peace would have been made, but that the Venetian ambassador asked six days' respite to send for power to conclude, and an eight days' truce was taken. Meanwhile, the Viceroy's company "had overthrow and lost some of the ordnance," so that it is not clear how matters stand now.
Hears that now the Pope sends hither the general minister of the Observants, with whom comes Cæsar le Graunde. Hopes their coming will not be much needed, as peace has begun to be treated in England.
The Chancellor goes to Barcelona on the 30th,—some say to go to his own country, Savoy,—others towards Italy, which is not likely, things standing as they do; although he is informed that the Emperor is making sixteen or twenty new galleys at Malaga, perhaps against the Moors in Africa. The Chancellor himself told us he had "made vow to Montserrate, which is a great pilgrimage," and would remain nine days at Barcelona, where the Emperor could send for him, if needful. "We well perceived that he cannot well digest something in his stomach, for much alteration is in his countenance. Where he was wont to be all merry and of pleasant countenance, he is now all sad." His absence will be regretted by all ambassadors. "He is very gentle and open." Has always found him ready to do the King service.
The Parliament here, except one or two orders of religion, have granted nothing yet. The bishops say that they can grant nothing without the Pope's leave; the comendadors of Alcantara, Calatrava, and St. James, "that they have no foundation but to defend this country against the Moors' borderers." Men think little will be got from this parliament, but that the bishops will have no further excuse if the Emperor make peace with the Pope.
"Here is a quaier, and but one of six leaves emprinted, intituled, Harmonii Tarentini Oratio pro republica Christiana ad principes," most calumnious against the Emperor and Henry. He is a Milanese, or adherent of Francis Sforza. Quotes some extracts to show this.
They have printed here "Apologies to the Pope's breves and to the French king's letter sent to the electors of the Empire;" also the articles of the league of Italy, which he sends, because mention is made therein of the King. These men may see how much the King was pressed to enter the league, but would not. The statement made by the indicter of the league in name of the confederates, that the King urged them to enter it, confutes itself; for if so, why did they afterwards write that they had urged him? Has no doubt they would accuse him of unkindness for his refusal if they dared avow it. All the world is yours; but only for their own profit, and on condition they shall always have more need of you than you of them. Has written other things that touch the King to Wolsey.
The Turk is said to have taken another town in Hungary, and to have about 100,000 men. It is feared the Bahoda, who usurps the crown, will rather join the Turk than lose his hold. Valladolid, 25 March 1527.
Hol., Pp. 7. Add. Endd.
25 March.
Vesp. C. IV. 74. B. M.
2987. LEE to WOLSEY.
At the time of the Emperor's departure from Granada, a merchant of Seville came to him, in behalf of the merchants there, soliciting his intercession that English cloths might be as free here as those of Spain. Advised them first to present their petition to the President, and tell him what answer they had. Thinks they did nothing more at that time; but since his servant was despatched to England, the same merchant has been with him to get the Emperor to command the President to declare void all laws against English cloths. Spoke to the Emperor about it, telling him the petition was from his own subjects; and he promised that his Council should consider it. Expected an answer from the Chancellor. Asked Almain to whom we should resort in his absence. He said he would himself be always ready, although from the Chancellor "we might perceive that the confessor, a Friar Dominic, should occupy that room for so much." As to the cloth, Almain said he had seen the grants of Ferdinand and Isabella that English cloth should be free, and that don Inigo had a commission to conclude therein. So Wolsey can have the grant renewed as part of the league. English merchants here complain that the false making of the cloths is putting the realm to slander.
Took occasion to remind the Emperor that Wolsey gave up the bulls or the bishopric of Badajoz on his Majesty assigning to him 2,500 ducats on the bishopric of Toledo, which Wolsey's proctors had repeatedly demanded of the Archibishop, but could not obtain. He said he thought the Archbishop only waited to see the bulls. Lee said he thought no bulls would be necessary if the Emperor would give him his letters avowing that he had assigned 2,500 ducats to Wolsey out of the pension imposed by the Pope; but in any case such letters would be needed. The Emperor promised that he would give them. To conceive these letters the better, have tried all means to get a copy of the Archbishop's bulls, either of him or of the executors of another who has a like pension of Toledo, but have not succeeded. Will draw up the letters without them, and see what answer the Archbishop will make.
Has obtained for Wolsey two payments of the bishop of Palance, viz. 1,320 ducats, at 4s, 6d. the ducat; "whereof 1,200 the prior of St. Mary Overy's of my diet money and other shall make to your Grace," as he has already written to Wolsey, Wyatt and the Prior. The remaining 120 I delivered to my servant, sent in post as I wrote to Brian Tuke, to whom I now write of 13 ducats more for conveyance of our duplicate letters sent by my servant. Found means at this time to send by sea for so little, which ordinarily costs 200 or 300 ducats. The bishop of Palance has not yet paid for Christmas, and desires respite till May, having paid, like other bishops, much money to the Emperor at Granada, to be sent to don Ferdinand.
Has offered John Almain 1,000 ducats yearly for his diligence in procuring Wolsey's pensions of 9,000 cr. and arrears on Toledo and Palencia. He seemed willing to take it under the name of reward, but not as pension. Trusts Wolsey will confirm it by his letters to quicken him. Hopes by this time he has heard something of the little cipher.
Finds by one of Wolsey's letters that he computes the pension of Toledo at 7,500 ducats. Wishes it were, but Mr. Dean only left remembrance with him for 2,500 ducats yearly, which amounted to 7,500 ducats for three years then in arrear. Now another year is due. Thinks Wolsey should assign Almain 500 ducats out of the 9,000 cr. to make him more diligent, and the other 500 out of Toledo. The Archbishop has been sick three or four weeks, and still keeps close. Wrote already "that the Emperor hath sent the bishoprick of Burgos to don Inachus, (fn. 3) but with pension of 9,000 ducats, so that in manner, accounting what he shall leave, sc. other 9,000 ducats, he shall nothing have." Some say it was offered to the Chancellor also "with pension," but he refused it, thinking he deserved the whole. "He departeth very sad, thinking some unkindness, whatsoever it is." It is said his pension from the Emperor is so far in arrear that he cannot live here. "His seals be distribute, two of them under lock, whereof the toone kaye hath a secretary brought up with the Chancellor, for he shall remain Chancellor during his life with the pension." The seal of Burgundy the Emperor retains. It is thought De Pratt will have it. Thanks Wolsey for speaking favorably of him to the King. Had to borrow above 200l. when he left England, besides what money he had of his own, and the 100 marks Wolsey got for him of the King. Valladolid, 25 March 1527.
Hol., Pp. 7. Add. Endd.
25 March.
Vesp. C. IV. 78. B. M.
2988. GHINUCCI and LEE to [WOLSEY].
Arrival of the "contrerelator." (See Lee's letter to the King.)
Don Inigo reported that the French ambassadors had proposed three things: 1, thanks to the King for procuring Francis's delivery; 2, desiring him also to procure the delivery of his sons; and, 3, that as Francis had made several ineffectual requests to the Emperor for delivery of his spouse the queen of Portugal, he was constrained to seek a wife elsewhere, and desired the King to give him the princess Mary. The King had answered,—1, that he had only done for Francis what one prince was bound in honor to do for another; 2, that he would do his best to procure the delivery of the French king's sons, but he thought the only way was by treating of peace between him and the Emperor; and, 3, he thanked Francis for offering his own person for the Princess, and there would be time enough to confer about it. The Chancellor says they have already begun to treat of peace in England, and the French deny they made any such offer to the Viceroy as the Imperialists allege. He blames Almain for not sending "the bill of the said offer" to don Inigo, and says don Inigo was there six weeks before he received the secret instructions, which they promised Lee that would send by Echyngham, and then said they had sent by a gentleman of Beauren's. They also said that this gentleman had arrived on the 19th Jan., the day of the despatch of the first post from don Inigo, which was only fourteen days after his arrival. "Wherefore, if don Inachus write the truth, these fail thereof."
Lee afterwards called on John Almain, who confirmed what the Chancellor had stated, and said the King had told the French ambassadors that as the Princess was of tender age there was plenty of time to talk about marrying her. He said that in the negociations for peace don Inigo had already renounced the Emperor's demand for Burgundy, and had declared to the King the Emperor's willingness that in Italy every one should keep what he has. Thus the towns now in Bourbon's hands will remains in his hands till it be decided whether Sforza be in default; "and it seemed to me that he said that the Emperor is content that the King's highness should choose the judges." Otherwise, the Emperor will do his best to satisfy the Pope. The French king offers, if he have a son by the Princess, who must be heir of England, to deliver to his behoof Normandy, Gascony, Guienne, Anjou, &c. Almain added, "I pray God they keep better promise with you than they do with us. There is no trust in them; and once afore you had the said countries delivered by the treaty of Calais, and yet they put you out again." Answered that doubtless the greatest sureties would be taken of them, and that the Frenchmen would never have been able to put the English out "if Spain had not holpen them, provoked against us for the reduction of don Peter, called the Cruel." He said there was a rumor in England that the King would make Ireland a kingdom, and the duke of Somerset king, which made many fear "least at length we should have such an enemy of Ireland as we have of Scotland." Lee said the King and his Council could provide against that danger; and he replied, "I pray God it may be so, for I am a good Englishman, and knowledge my first setting forth to come by England."
Were told by the Chancellor that the Pope and Viceroy had once agreed upon articles, but the Venetian ambassador asked a delay of six days, as he had no mandatum, and meanwhile the Viceroy met with a defeat. The Chancellor also said that the French ambassadors were putting off coming to England, and would not come if they had good answer of the Emperor.
The Chancellor is now leaving this, the common voice says, not to return. He hinted to us that he would not, unless the Emperor called him. He pretends to go on pilgrimage to Montserrate, which is on the way to Barcelona. "It is too long a pilgrimage of 300 evil miles for a man of his age, except he went somewhat further." "He hath something in his stomach, which we might well perceive by the great alteration from his accustomed hilarity." Some think the Emperor will send for him again; others, that the Emperor "will into Arragon," where he will return and join him; others, that he is "præcursor in Italiam." Are told Wolsey has sent assurances by don Inigo that, notwithstanding any practices with the Frenchmen, the King would maintain his amity with the house of Burgundy; also, that on being asked if he would write anything by the contrerelator, he said he would despatch a courier by land within three days. This courier is anxiously expected. They say his despatch will go far to confirm the old amity. Almain says the French king has sent no larger commission into England than he did by Bayard.
There have been rumors, not yet all dead, that the king of Navarre was preparing to recover his country; "insomuch that the ordinary of this country was commanded to repair thither." Spies say they are waiting the turn of affairs in Italy, The Parliament here. The pamphlet of Harmonius Tarentinus:—the name is feigned.
What offended us in the answer made to the confederates, of which we wrote, was the pretence that the King had offered his mediation without being desired. Have since thought it best, if the treaty went forward, not to expostulate, and now we let the matter die on account of the Chancellor's departure. Valladolid, 25 March 1527. Signed.
Pp. 9.
25 March.
R. O.
2989. LAURENCE STARKEY to [SIR JOHN HUSSEY ?]
Since your departure from London, I have heard from my friends in Lancashire of Rich. Banke's untrue dealings. He had charged the servants and tenants, in lord Montegle's name, to have nothing to do with your chaplain, and not to occupy the demesnes let by him. Coupland has ordered the chaplain in the Cardinal's name not to meddle with anything. Bank and Strete have writings from lord Montegle and Cromwell, and writs of subpœa to Darcy and you. Strete will deliver them at Sleforthe, on his way to Lancashire. They intend thus to disappoint all the chaplain has done at Hornby, Mellyng, or elsewhere. Wished to tell you this before you departed. Banke has spent most of my Lord's goods, and now flatters him, and lays the blame on you. Has procured, without Banke's knowing it, a copy of his complaints to the Cardinal. Has sent Darcy a copy, and will give you one, if Darcy does not send one. The matter should he looked to, or you will have great loss and rebuke, for Banke has no lands or money.
Advises him to write to Humfrey Wingfield, who is in great favor with the Cardinal, to get an order either from him or the Chancellor of the duchy to prevent Banke from meddling with the benefice, and another from the Council about the lands, as he is bound for them also. This must be done shortly, as the year for the benefice begins on St. Mark's Day, in Easter week. If he will put Starky in authority, will find sureties for the whole charge, and will not desist for Banke and all his letters. Has writs de non molestando to all the King's officers. Westminster, Our Lady Day the Annunciation.
P. 1. Headed: Vera copia. Send by Sir John Hussie, ao R. H. xviii. in March.
March.
R. O.
2990. LAURENCE STARKEY to_.
When he wrote the other letters which the bearer has, did not know he would go to Slyforth, but gave him 2d. to deliver them at the George at Grauntham. Now, finding that he is going to Slyforth, sends a copy of the complaint presented by Banke against Darcy and you. Banke sent it to him in the night, and left it with him till the morning. Encloses a letter from Chr. Hochkynson. Wishes it returned by the next man whom you send to "my Lady your bed-fellow." Knows that Banke has "turmoylled" all my Lady's evidence, and laid apart some of the pieces. "He reported in his drunkenness that they should make him peace." If Mr. Warde had executed your writing sent to Mr. Standlay two years ago, to look after my Lord's evidence, and to put away Banke and the knaves he keeps in the castle, you would have been without this business, and 200l. of my Lord's goods would have been saved, which he has wasted. The steward was well willed to do it, and Warde can tell him how it was stopped. Would put him out if he had authority, for he (Starkey) is feoffee in my Lord's lands, which Banke is not. The only feoffees now alive are himself, Sir Wm. Molyneux, knt., and Sir Randall Pole, clk. If you will take no further direction about the execution of my Lord's will, I will do what I can myself, for the longer Banke stays the worse it will be. One Copeland has sold, since Starkey left, 22 steers, some worth 20s. each, much of the corn on the demaynes, and part of that on the benefice of Mellyng. By this time he has finished it, and then the apparel and household stuff will follow. He has with him his complaint against you, and writings from my Lord and Mr. Cromwell to "fear" the country, and prevent you from meddling. He told Starkey that he had been with Peryn, the King's auditor, and told him that he should owe the King at Michaelmas 900l., beside the Martinmas rents. This is done only to show the country that they should not favor you. Reminds him that my Lord is now almost at his lawful age, and he should order this small time so that neither he nor Darcy are slandered. Your chaplain reported at Hornby that Banke sent a writing to lord Darcy and you to keep me from meddling with my Lord's will. Should like to have this to put with other things that he has against him. All the country, except a priest and four or five knaves whom he keeps with my Lord's goods, are weary of him.
P. 1. Headed: Vera copia. Send by Sir John Hussie, ao R. H. xviii. in March.
[March.]
R. O.
2991. WRIGHT and MARTEN.
Award made by Ric. Eden, archdeacon of Middlesex, and Thos. Crumwell, between Will. Wright, salter, and Ric. Marten, of London, who bound themselves in two obligations, dated 25 March 18 Hen. VIII., to abide by their judgment, if given in before 2 April following, touching a sum of 6l. 13s. 4d. a year, which Wright covenanted to pay to Martyn for the office of a waiter in the Custom House at London.
Draft, Pp. 4.
26 March.
Cal. B. III. 301. B. M. St. P. IV. 468.
2992. MAGNUS to WOLSEY.
Besides what is at this time written to Wolsey about the king of Scots' purpose to repress the thieves of Litheresdale, sends two letters from James, to the duke of Richmond and himself, of thanks for the hounds lately sent him. Has heard by various letters that the Queen, on repairing to her son, desired leave for Harry Stewarde to come to court, and was displeased that the King would not grant it. The abp. of St. Andrew's is also kept from court, and repairs to the Queen at Stirling. Angus has the whole rule, and Patrick Sinclair, who is taken into favor, may speak freely. He has appointed to meet Magnus in Northumberland. Will inform Wolsey of everything when he comes up at Easter, for business will detain him in Northumberland till after Palm Sunday. Good rule is kept on the Borders. Hopes punishment will soon be given to Liddersdaile, "which matter wanteth no calling upon." York, in the Assize time, 26 March.
The king of Scots has made great cheer to the duke of Richmond's servants, a yeoman, and a groom, whom he sent to Scotland with hounds, giving the former 10l. stg., and the latter 5l. Signed.
Add.
26 March.
R. O.
2993. The DUKE OF RICHMOND'S COUNCIL to WOLSEY.
Hear from the Borders that redress was made between England and Scotland, except that the inhabitants of Liddesdale refused to comply with the order of justice taken between the realms. Wrote, therefore, a letter from the duke of Richmond to the king of Scots, declaring the great robberies committed by them. Enclose his answer that he will send the earl of Angus thither to reform them. Encloses also a copy of Angus's letter to Sir Wm. Eure. York, 26 March. Signed by T. Magnus, Brian Higdon, Thos. Tempest, Jo. Uvedaile, and R. Bowis.
P. 1. Add.: To [the] lord Legate's goo[d gr]ace.
26 March.
R. O.
2994. MAGNUS and SIR T. TEMPEST to WOLSEY.
Are informed by Sir W. Bulmer that Sir Thos. Foster, marshal of Berwick, died on Monday the 18th inst. He had few fellows in Northumberland for his wisdom and experience on the Borders. The place should be given to some honest and active gentleman who will remain in Berwick, where the captain and porter are the only officers resident. The fee is 50 marks a year, with 24 men in wages,—12 at 10 marks, and the other 12 at 9. The bearer, Sir Will. Bulmer the younger, who is going to make suit for it, has had some experience on the Borders. York, 26 March. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: My lord Legate's Grace.
26 March.
R. O.
2995. ORDNANCE.
Accounts of Ric. Candische, captain of 100 gunners at Berwick, Norham, and Wark, and master of the Ordnance there.
He asks allowance for his own wages from 24 March 15 Hen. VIII. to 17 July 17 Hen. VIII., at 4s. a day; for a clerk's wages, from 1 Dec. 15 Hen. VIII. to 17 June 17 Hen. VIII., at 12d. a day; 5 horse soldiers, his servants, at 6d. a day. Two years and a half rent of houses at Berwick and Newcastle, taken by Sir Edw. Rynsley to keep the ordnance, 15l. Repairs to the said houses, 40s. His own wages from 15 Sept. 14 Hen. VIII. to 1 March next, at 18d. a day. Arrears of wages for six gunners sent to Berwick by Wolsey's orders for the same six months, at 6d. a day.
Whereof allowed by Norfolk, Daunce, and Magnus, 126l. 8s. 8d., which is 181l. 7s. 4d. less than his demand.
Receipt of Candishe for the former amount in full payment of his demands, 26 March 18 Hen. VIII. Signed.
He asks allowance for his journey into Scotland with eight horses and six servants, 6s. 8d. a day from 2 Sept. to 14 Dec. 16 Hen. VIII.; of which xl ... days were disallowed, and the rest is paid, 26 March 18 Hen. VIII. Signed.
Pp. 6.
27 March.
Cal. D. x. 38. B. M.
2996. CLERK to WOLSEY.
Address of a letter from Clerk [to my] lord Legate's [g]ood Grace. Endd.: 27 March.
28 March.
Cal. E. I. 74. B. M.
2997. DU BIES to WOLSEY.
Requests his good offices for certain poor prisoners who have been long detained at Dover unable to pay their ransoms. Their relations are poor. Boulogne, 28 March. Signed.
Fr., mutilated, p. 1. Add.: "[A] Mons. Mons. le Cardinal legat d'Angletere."
28 March.
Lettere di Principi, II. 68 b.
2998. GIO. MATT. GIBERTO to the BISHOP OF BAYEUX (CANOSSA).
By the capitulation which is made [between the Pope and the Imperialists], it may be seen how utterly the French have failed in performing their obligations. Had we been supported by our friends we should not have acted thus; but possibly they were unable to render us assistance. The Pope is sending me to the French king, with whose permission I am to proceed to England, and then into Spain, to see whether what is reported be true. Rome, 28 March 1527.
Ital.
29 March.
Vesp. C. IV. 83. B. M.
2999. LEE to HENRY VIII.
Sent two letters to the King on the 25 March, and a book printed here, containing apologies for the Pope's breves, and for a letter of the French king to the Electors and the league of Italy. Letters have since arrived from Genoa, stating that Bourbon on the 14 March "departed from the castle of Jhon, between Mutina and Bononie, with footmen, 10,000 Almains, 6,000 Spaniards, 4,000 Italians, and 700 gravis armaturæ, and 1,700 levis armaturæ." On the 19th, if he went straight, he would have reached Florence; if by Romandiola, Ancona. He left all the heavy pieces and camp followers at Ferrara, and the Duke there paid his footmen, and would have gone with him himself if his health had suffered it. The Viceroy was in no danger, and had not fled, but changed his field, and lay in the lands of the Church. Anthony de Leyva remains in Milan, and says if he had money to pay his Almains, he could not only defend Milan, but give trouble to the Venetians. Valladolid, 29 March 1527.
Hol., Pp. 2. Add.
29 March.
Vesp. C. IV. 84. B. M.
3000. LEE to WOLSEY.
To the same effect. Valladolid, 29 March 1527.
Hol., Pp. 2. Add.
29 March.
Vit. B. IX. 78. B. M.
3001. RUSSELL and SIR G. CASALE to [WOLSEY].
Since they last wrote have been informed "that the Vice[roy will] not come hither unless the legate cardinal Trev[ulcio go] to Gaietta for to cause Andrea Doreo with his com[pany to] retire; which done, he to return to Rome:" also that Cæsar Feromuske had money with him in Lombardy. Went to the Pope, and reproached him with violating his promises. He said he could not but assure the Viceroy that Andrea Doreo should not in his absence follow the enterprise of Naples. The money, he said, was not given by him; it was paid by the Florentines on bills of exchange given by Philip Strozi, who is a prisoner in Naples, and Jacobo Salviati. Told the Pope the Florentines would not have paid it against his will; and he said the lanceknights would not have retired without it. Said they feared such payments would increase. The lanceknights in Lombardy were compelled to remain still by the extreme severity of the weather; and their captain, Georgio, is paralysed on one side, so that it was "much requisite for them to retire" at any rate. Signor Rans' gentleman has returned from France with authority and instructions to signor Alberto, which Langie (Langeais) should have brought; "which, he sayeth, concludeth nothing, because he seeth no manner of provision of money, and is mentioned no more of the 20,000 ducats a month; so that in the cause the Frenchmen were never seen so cold." Still they say that, notwithstanding the Pope's agreement, "they wol galiardely follow the wars; but no provision is made here therefor." Answer has also come from the Venetians that they will continue the war in Lombardy, but will contribute nothing for Naples, and require that the 20,000 ducats brought by Langie be employed in the wars of Lombardy.
Have spoken with the Viceroy, who says he came to make a good peace; but this will do little, unless the other confederates enter it, for which he allows them a month's respite. He said the Emperor desired no more than peace, and "gladly would have the same ... swearing a great oath that he knew so much of his [master's] mind that he would never deliver the French king['s sons] perforce, though all princes Christian were against him, [but] rather lose Naples, Spain, and Flanders, with all other [his] countries, reserving two or three towns and castles, w[here] he, with them, would live the rest of his life. He said the Emperor had sent commissioners to England to treat of peace. This the writers urged him to promote, as it would be more to his master's honor if made there, which it would certainly be if not hindered by the Emperor's ministers here. Never saw the Viceroy so lowly and gentle, "which is a marvel to all men that knew him before." Think it is owing to the marriage between the French king and my lady Princess, which he would not at first believe would take effect. He sees that if the King and Francis agree, the Low Countries are lost to the Emperor, "which countries he esteemeth more than all the realms he hath." This will dispose him to peace. The Viceroy told the Pope he knew the uttermost of the Emperor's mind, "as well that thing impossible, as also that difficile and facile." Being asked, he answered that the Emperor was willing to deliver the French king's children upon ransom, without demanding Burgogne, but he would not have Milan for himself or his brother,—that he was willing to refer the duke Francisco's matter to impartial judges. Hears that the King has ordered to be sent to Italy 100,000 cr. to maintain his Holiness.
Alberto, the French ambassador, speaks much of the ability of [your Grace], saying that Christendom would be blest if his master had such a minister. Thinks all should be put into Wolsey's hands, otherwise Francis will lose his credit in Italy. The Da[tary] is to be sent to France, and then to England. He is very civil to Russell. Wolsey has won great fame at Rome, "so that if your Grace might have been here with wishing, you should have been Pope long since." Not only do the gentlemen, prelates, and others say this, but the cardinals also. Sanga goes with the Datary. Desires to be recalled. Brought nothing here but what he carried with him in post Letters have come from the Emperor's camp in Lombardy, that the Almains have not yet returned, although the Viceroy promised they should retire in eight days after Feramosca's coming. Rome, 29 March. Signed.
Pp. 6, mutilated.
29 March.
Vit. B. IX. 81. B. M.
3002. ITALY.
Conditions arranged between the Viceroy and the Pope for a suspension of arms, to include the French king and the doge of Venice. The former to be allowed till the ... day of April, the Venetians till the 23rd March, to accept it; but in the end of the document the term is prolonged for both to the end of April. To last for eight months. Done at Rome, in presence of the Pope and the Viceroy before these witnesses: Jo. Mattheo (Giberto) bp. of Verona, Jac. de Salviatis, and Jac. Sadoletto. 29 March 1527.
Lat., Pp. 8, mutilated. In Sadoleti's hand (?)
29 March.
R. O.
3003. ITALY.
Extracts from the joint letter of Russell and Sir Gregory, in cipher, dated 26 March.
Suppose that Giacomo Salviati and the archbishop of Capua exhorted the Pope to do this, as the kings of England and France, being united, seem ready to carry on a perpetual war against the Emperor, with the Venetians, so that his Holiness will be friendly to both sides, and will be considered judge, as the king of England was formerly. This is confirmed by the fact that the Archbishop pointed this out to the Pope, as they have already written, and wrote accusing them of disturbing the truce, that it might be made in England, and they have found out from the Pope that he thinks himself safe for this reason. He said also that he was contented with what was contained in the capitulation of the Imperialists, for they confessed they could make no defence in Naples. In Lombardy there had been so much snow and rain that the Germans could not get to Florence; so that it seems the Pope made the truce willingly rather than from necessity.
Have heard from a secret source that the Pope has been persuaded to go to Spain by the same person who drew him into the truce. The Imperialists encourage him to do so, saying that, if he does this honor to the Emperor, the latter will immediately restore the French king's sons and the duchy of Milan, for he could not wish for a greater honor than a visit from the Pope. They have, therefore, determined to send the general of the Franciscans to Spain, and the Datary to France, to persuade the French king to be content with this journey of the Pope's, as it may bring about the delivery of his sons. Has spoken on the matter to D. Albertus (Carpi), to whom the Imperialists have promised the restoration of his state. He agrees with them that the French look only superficially at what pleases them, and will consent to this journey, as the Princes may be restored by it. Expect nothing but harm from this journey, for when a merchant goes to buy goods, he makes them dearer, and they never saw the Emperor become humbler in consequence of obtaining glory. As they have heard that the Pope said he would not go without the consent of the kings of England and France, and the Legate, and Francis will probably look merely to his own advantage, the Legate had better write instantly, and meanwhile they will bring forward many true reasons against it, viz., that if the Pope, when victorious, dares not look to his own advantage here, how can he do so in Spain?—that he is not the man to bring the Emperor to his wishes; but the Emperor will persuade him, and make himself master of Italy and the Papal authority. The Colonnas will lose their power as soon as he starts for Spain; nor is it likely the Emperor will restore the French princes in this way, unless moved by Divine inspiration. Unless the Pope acts on other plans, it is certain that the Emperor will have all he wants.
ii. From letters of March 29.
Have been to the Pope, and told him they had heard he wished to go to Spain. He answered, that if the allies entered the truce he would gladly go thither with the consent of the kings of England and France, if he first saw that the Emperor was inclined to peace, and that he was sending the Datary to France and England about it. Told him to reflect what a disgrace it would be to the See, as, for 80 years, no Pope had ever gone to the Emperor, but the Emperor had come to the Pope,—and held up the Legate, whom the Emperor had often gone to meet, as an example. Assured him the King would never consent, from his zeal for the Holy See. Answered about the peace as above, and told him that as all the confederates had put everything in the hands of the King and the Legate, he should take care not to insult them by taking away from them the good work of treating with the Viceroy, especially as the Viceroy says he can treat better in England. As to sending the Datary, answered that if he intends to send him, he should give him power of making peace or war, and place the conduct of the peace in the King's hand. As to the war, the Pope has said that he is ready to make a new treaty, if the king of England will join it, and that the contribution shall be proportioned to all, so that he shall not be compelled to bear all the expence; they think, therefore, that his Holiness should give the datary power to arrange such a treaty, if the King cannot bring the Emperor to an honorable peace, and to make sure that the war shall not be carried on so unseasonably as it was before. He said he would do this, and they advised him to show himself unyielding to the Viceroy. The Datary says, in excuse of the Pope, that, from fear, he dares not tell them all he has treated with the Imperialists, especially about the money which the Spaniards have had; and for the same reason, he said he would make a new treaty and contribute, but that really he cannot collect enough money for ten years.
Lat., Pp. 5.
30 March.
R. O.
3004. ANGUS to the EARL OF NORTHUMBERLAND.
Has received his writings by his servant, the bearer, who brought also letters to the King from the king of England. At his arrival James was in the North, and the answer had to be delayed till his return. Sends it now. Will meet Northumberland on the Borders for redress when he pleases. Desires to have the "counterpayn." Northumberland desires him to come to Berwick or Northame, but he trusts he will not require him to meet except according to custom. Edinburgh, the penult, day of March. Signed: Ard, Chancellar.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
30 March.
Add M.S. 27,451, f. 26. B. M.
3005. LE STRANGE.
Household expences of Sir Thos. le Strange from 21 April 17 Hen. VIII. to [30 March 18 Hen. VIII.]
1st week. Sunday: a pig, 4d.; 14 rabbits and 2 hernsewes of store. Monday: a pig, 14 rabbits and 2 hernsewes of store, and 1 hare. Tuesday: 10 rabbits and a hernsewe of store; 4 dotterels, 3d.; 2 mallards, killed with the cross-bow. Wednesday: a sole, 1d. Thursday: 12 rabbits and 2 hernsewes of store; 2 mallards, killed with the cross-bow; 12 dotterels, 9d. Friday: 1 sole, 1d. Saturday: a sole, 1d.; a salmon trout, 2d.; 3 cod, 13½d.; ¾ of a ling, 6¾d.; in fawke and thornback, 6d.; fresh cod, 4d.; plaice, 6d.; a bretock, 4d.; crabs, 1½d.; 150 eggs, 9d.; butter, 18 cakes of store; 6 st. of beef, 2s. 9d.; half a veal, 10d.; a quarter of veal of store; a mutton, 3s. 4d.; a lamb of store; pigeons, 1d.; 1 combe of myxtelyn, 20d.; 3 b. wheat, 21d.; 5 barrels of beer, 5s. 10d.; 4 lb. candles, 5d. Strangers in this week: Mr. Tylney, Mr. Fyncham, and his son, 1 day; Mr. Curson, 3 days; Mr. Lumpner, 5 days. Total, beside gift and store, 22s. 11¾d._2nd week, 22s. 11¾d. Strangers: Sir Ph. and lady Calthorpe, and Chr., Ph., and James Calthorpe, Sir John Cressener, and Mr. Pearn._3rd week, 32s. 6½d. Strangers: Sir Ph. Calthroppe, &c., Sir John Cressener, Mr. Curson, Mr. Banyard, Mr. Roger, and Mr. John Woodhouse._4th week, 17s. 0½d. Strangers: Mr. Robsarte._5th week, 15s. 1½d._6th week, 12s. 7¼d._7th week, 13s. 1¼d. Mr. John Woodhouse._8th week, 28s. Lady Vause, Mr. and Mrs. Throkmerton, Robt. Throkmerton, and Laurance Cheny._9th week, 33s. 4d. Mr. Aplyard, Mr. Roger, Mr. John Woodhouse, Mr. Robsarte, and those of the week before._10th week, 30s. 6¼d. Lady Vause, John Woodhouse, and clippers._11th week, 44s. 7½d. Lady Vause, lady Cheny, Mr. Lane, Sir John Cressener, Laur. Cheny._12th week, 25s. 9½d. Lady Vause, lady Cheny, Sir John and Mr. John Cressener, Laur. Cheny, John Lane, and Mr. Curson._13th week, 18s. 1d. Mr. Curson, Mr. Pearn._14th week, 20s. 3d. Mr. Curson._15th week, 16s. 5d. Mr. Edm. Wymondham, Mr. Curson, Laur. Cheny._16th week, 19s. 4½d. Sir Roger Townshend, Mr. Wymondham, Mr. Robsarte, Mr. Curson, Laur. Cheny._17th week, 18s. 2¾d. Sir John Cressener, Mrs. Pearn, Mr. Curson._18th week, 18s. 9d. Mr. Curson, Mr. and Mrs. Pearn, and the prior of the Austin Friars, Lynn._19th week, 16s. 7½d. Mr. and Mrs. Pearn, Mr. Neve._20th week, 14s. 6¼d. Mr. Roger woodhouse, Mr. and Mrs. Pearn, Mr. Neve._21st week, (fn. 4) 20s. 9d. Lord Vause, Mr. Neve._22nd week, (fn. 5) 38s. 7¼d. Lord Vause, Mr. Neve._23rd week, 22s. 11¾d. Mr. Seymer, Mr. Wyngfeld, Mr. Gyer._24th week, 15s. 5d. Mr. Woodhouse, Mr. Curson, Mr. Wingfield._25th week, 22s. 2d. Mr. Curson and the prior of Cockesford._26th week, 36s. 6½d. Sir Roger Towneshend, Sir John Cressener, my lord Suffryngham (Suffragan ? (fn. 6) ), Mr. Curson, Mr. Fynes, Mr. Sharnborne._27th week, 21s. 0½d. Mr. Curson._28th week, 22s. 9d. Mr. Curson and Mr. Pearn._29th week, 18s. 7d. (The totals for the weeks are not given in the MS. after this.) Mr. Pearn._30th week, 22s. 6¾d. My Mistress Wyffes and her midwife._31st week, 33s. 5d. Mr. and Mrs. Tendall, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Tendall, Mr. Curson, the prior of Cockesforthe, Mr. Fleete, Mrs. Wiffes and the midwife._32nd week, 26s. 10d. Mrs. Lawes, Mrs. Haveryng, and the midwife, 4 wrights and sawyers, a mason, and his man._33rd week, 27s. 9d. Sir John Cressener, Mrs. Lawes, Mrs. Haveryng, the midwife, 2 wrights, 2 sawyers._34th week, 24s. 5¼d. Mrs. Lawes, Mrs. Haveryng, and the midwife, 2 wrights._ 35th week, 19s. 7¾d. Mrs. Walpole._36th week (Tuesday, Christmas day), 61s. 9½d._37th week, 92s._38th week, 27s. 7½d._39th week. My lord Suffryngham, Mr. and Mrs. Pearne, Mr. Wm. Andrewes._40th week, 31s. 3½d. My lord Suffringham, Mr. and Mrs. Pearne, the sawyers._41st week, 23s. 3½d. My lord Suffringham, Mrs. Pearn, the sawyers._42nd week, 22s. 10d. Mr. and Mrs. Wynter, 2 wrights, a thackster, and 2 dawbers._43rd week, 25s. 6½d. Mr. John Woodhouse, 2 thacksters, and 4 servants._44th week, 33s. 8½d. Sir Edw. Knevet, Mr. Halse, Mr. Banyard, 2 thacksters, and 4 laborers._ h;45th week, 16s. 3½d. Sir Edw. Knyvett, Mr. Halse, Mr. and Mrs. Pearn, and the wives of Hunstanton and of Holame._46th week, 24s. 11½d. Mr. and Mrs. Pearn._47th week, 18s. 5½d. My lord Suffringham, .. sawyers._48th week, 15s. 11½d. Mr. Banyard, Mr. Manne, Laur. Cheny, and his wife.
Pp. 35.
31 March.
Cal. D. x. 391. B. M.
3006. [TAYLER] to WOLSEY.
* * * [or]atores an[d] ... mo ... saw letters ... commandment (?) was c ... welcome in t ... and paid ... ded ... the Spaniards (?) an ... fortified ... [p]lace ... and thus Jesu" [&c.] Paris, [this last day of ?] March.
P. 1. Add.: "To my lord Legate's grace."
This is a mere fragment, not only dreadfully mutilated, but very illegible even in what remains.
[March ?]
R. O.
3007. LOUISA OF SAVOY to WOLSEY.
Desires credence for the prothonotary De Gambres, who is going to England, who will tell them of the Pope's good will for universal peace. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: A Mons. le Cardinal, mon bon filz et pere. Endd.
GRANTS./March. 3008. GRANTS in MARCH 1527.
1. Ric. Luce, clk. Presentation to the chantry in the church of Cleobury Mortimer, Heref. dioc., vice John Taylour, deceased. Greenwich, 7 Feb. 18 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 1 March.—P.S. Pat. p. 2, m. 23.
1. John Oldcorne, of Lentordyne, in Wigmoresland, marches of Wales. Protection; going in the retinue of Sir Rob. Wingfield, deputy of Calais. Del. Westm., 1 March 18 Hen. VIII.—S.B.
1. Nic. Vivacciesi, merchant of Florence, and his factor, Nich. Pandolfeny. Licence to import cloth of gold and silver, and sable furs, and to reconvey beyond sea those he cannot sell. Greenwich, 1 March 18 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 1 March.—S.B. Fr., m. 3.
2. Henry Pykeman and William his son. To be bowmakers and overseers of the bows and strings in the Towers of London and Ireland, in survivorship, on surrender by Hen. Lothworth and Hen. Pykeman, with 6d. a day, a yeoman's livery, and a house in the Tower of London, situated between "the Round Tower of the Art'rie" on the west and the tower called the King's Lodging on the east. Greenwich, 2 March 18 Hen. VIII.—P.S. Pat. p. 2, m. 24.
7. Ralph ap Rise ap Evered, of Cornoilles, Anglesey. Protection; going in the retinue of Sir Rob. Wingfield. Greenwich, 27 Feb. 18 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 7 March.—P.S.
7 (?). John Crowdacote, mercer, of Lonston (Launceston), Cornw. Protection. [7 March 19 Hen. VIII. ?] Date erased.—P.S. b.
7. Wm. Loke, of London. Licence to import cloth of gold and silver, silks and jewels, for the King. Greenwich, 7 March 19 Hen. VIII.—Fr., m. 3.
9. Laurence Bonvixi, merchant of Lucca. Licence to export 300 sacks of wool. Westm., 9 March.—Fr., 18 and 19 Hen. VIII. m. 5.
9. Wm. Johns. Lease of the fishery and weir of Carlion, parcel of the earldom of March, for 21 years, at the rent of 20s. a year, on surrender of patent 23 Feb. 12 Hen. VIII., being a similar lease and a licence to rebuild the weir. The fishing was found, by an inquisition made 17 Hen. VIII., by Sir Wm. Morgan, John Mathewe, mayor of Carlyon, John ap Morgan, Tho. ap Robertz and Nich. Williams, to be no part of the fisheries of Uske and Seyn, as claimed by Chas. earl of Worcester. Del. Westm., 9 March 18 Hen. VIII.—P.S. Pat. p. 2, m. 25.
9. Tho. Keyle, of London, merchant. Protection; going in the retinue of Sir Rob. Wingfield. Greenwich, 22 Feb. 18 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 9 March.—P.S.
12. Sir Tho. Cheyney. Licence to export 500 sacks of wool of the growth of the island of Sheppey. Del. Westm., 12 March 18 Hen. VIII.—S.B.
12. John Ketilby, serjeant of the "Chaundry," and John Scudamore, gent. usher of the Chamber. To be stewards, in survivorship, of the lps. of Abbotley, Salwarpe, Elmeley Lovet and Sharveley, Worc., parcel of the earldom of Warwick, and masters of the hunt of deer in the said parks; on surrender by Ketilby of patent 28 Jan. 16 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 12 March 18 Hen. VIII.—Pat. p. 2, m. 25.
16. Sir Giles Capell. Cancel of his recognizance, made 21 May 14 Hen. VIII., to pay 240l. to the Crown. Greenwich, 16 March 18 Hen. VIII.—S.B.
17. Sir Rob. Constable. Constat and exemplification of the grant of stewardship of the lp. of Hotham, York, the original patent having been lost. Westm., 17 March.—Pat. 18 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 8.
17. Sir Rob. Constable. Constat of patent 5 March 11 Hen. VIII., appointing him steward of the lp. and constable of the castle of Shirefhoton. Westm., 17 March.—Vacated, 16 June 23 Hen. VIII. in favor of Tho. Curwen.—Pat. 18 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 21.
18. Erian Brereton, yeoman of the Privy Chamber. Annuity of 10 marks out of the revenues of the lp. of Denbigh, lately held by John ap Ellys, deceased. Del. Westm., 18 March 18 Hen. VIII.—S.B.
18. Wm. Humfrey, M.A. To have the free chapel of St. Cecilia, at Minster Lovell, Oxf., vice Tho. Morwell, resigned. Greenwich. 15 March 18 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 18 March.—P.S.
20. Wm. Cartwryk. To be bailiff of the manor of Amphill, Beds, with 4l. a year. Hampton Court, 20 March.—Pat. 18 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 12.
23. John de Coloribus, S.T.P., of the order of Friars Preachers, a foreigner. Denization. Greenwich, 17 March 18 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 23 March.—P.S. Pat. p.2, m. 22.
23. Sir John St. John, Sir John Arundell, Sir Wm. Curteney, Sir Wm. Essex, Sir John Basset and Sir John Kyrkham, Andr. Hillersdon, Ric. Halse, John Wyse, Hugh Trevanyon, John Carewe, Tho. Tremayn, Humph. Predeaux, John Kelly and Alex. Woode. Grant, in consideration of the marriage between Sir Peter Eggecombe, knight for the Body, and lady Katharine Griffith ap Rice, of an annual rent of 50 marks from the manors of Bodrugan, Tremodres, Treuelen, Penstrasowe, Tregryan, Threlowthes, Trevorok, Casaways, Trevergh, Resogowe, Dorsett (fn. 7), Tuoys, Penryng, Burgh, Pencoys, Huntingdon Castle, Trebullok, Crukevalance, Trevestthek and Turnburgh, Cornw., granted to the King by cardinal Wolsey, Sir John Heron, now deceased, Baldwin Malett and Adam Ralegh, and then granted to Rob. Knollys, deceased. Del. Westm., 23 March.—S.B. Pat. p. 2, m. 23.
25. Rob. Goderigge, of Gloucester, and John Goderigge, of Pyrton, Glouc. Pardon. Del. Westm., 25 March 18 Hen. VIII.—S.B.
30. Sir Wm. Gascoigne, of Cardyngton, Beds. Annuity of 44l. for life out of the issues of cos. Beds and Bucks. Richmond, 30 March.—Pat. 18 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 18.

Footnotes

  • 1. Douarty or De Warty?
  • 2. The following abstract of this portion of Clerk's letter is preserved by Fiddes (Collections, p. 176) and in Masters' MS. (f. 113): "Francis is very desirous to have the princess Mary, and to have her delivered into his hands as soon as the peace is concluded. Our King pretends her nonage, and will have all pensions, &c. concluded first. The Queen Regent is earnest also for the present marriage, saying there is no danger, for she herself was married at 11. And for this match there might be a device to satisfy both sides, saying that the Princess will be well towards 12 by August. At that time both Princes should meet at Calais with small company and charge; there her son, after the marriage solemnized, might abed himself for an hour, or less, with my lady Princess. She said the King her son was a man of honour and discretion, and would use no violence, especially the father and mother being so nigh, meaning that conatus ad copulam cum illa, quæ est proxima pubertati, prudentia supplente ætatem, should make everything sure that neither party should now vary. So the King her son might be assured of his wife, and king Henry carry back his daughter till she should be accounted more able, &c. This overture our ambassadors think very strange, &c."
  • 3. Inigo de Mendoza.
  • 4. "The xxti weke" in MS.
  • 5. "The xxj. weke." The mistake goes on to the end.
  • 6. John Underwood, bishop of Chalcedonia, was suffragan to Richard Nix, bishop of Norwich, and died in 1541. Blomefield's Norfolk, iv. 306.
  • 7. Name of a place in Cornwall.