Letters and Papers: May 1539, 16-20 | British History Online

Pages 449-462

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

Citation:

May 1539



16 May. R. O.	972. JOHN HARRYS to LADY LISLE.
	Has received her letter touching such lands as Master Basset, her son, is to have after the death of my lord of Bridgewater if he dies without heir male. Advises her to give him a reasonable sum, and so take possession of the land; for notwithstanding his recognisance he may put the whole in jeopardy. To make an assurance of it by Parliament cannot be done without his assent, and will be very expensive. Thinks her title is good to Est Hagynton, but would like to see the evidences, to know whether there be any old entail. That known, she may avoid the surmised title of Mr. Coffyn. London, 16 May.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.
[16 May.] R. O.	973. JAMES BASSET to LADY LISLE.
	Sends his respects to his father, his brother John, and his sisters. Hears that his sister Frances has given birth to a child. Had always wished it would be a boy. I have sent you word by Mr. House to send me some clothes to Winchester. Begs she will send him a "soyon" of velvet or of satin, a doublet of silk and "schausés boufans de tafetay," and a pair of velvet shoes, or let Mr. House procure them for him. My lord of Winchester sends his respects to you and my father. The eldest son (fn. 1) of Mons. de Fuater, has come to live with my lord of Winchester. Thank the bp. of Bangor who has made me good cheer for the love of you, and has also given me a crown. Thank my cousin John Granfild and his wife who entertained me at their house. London, morrow of Ascension day.
	Hol., Fr., p. 1. Add.: A ma treshonoree dame et mere, madame la vicontesse de Lisle, au Calais.
16 May. R. O.	974. [LADY LISLE] to JOHN BEKENSAW.
	I have received your letter, dated the Friday before Palm Sunday, and the French Bible, for which my Lord (fn. 2) and I give you thanks. If there are any printed in English, send me one, by Jacques de Four at Rouen, Two crowns are enclosed, one as a token, one to pay for the Bible. I have written again to Mons. de Gras to send me my "crepyns." Calais, 16 May. Not signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Mr. John Bekensaw, at Paris.
16 May. Add. MS. 28,591 f. 131. B. M.	975. AGUILAR to CHARLES V
	Latino Juvenale and the Esleu de Oranges, secretary to the Grand Master, have arrived from France. Is told by the French ambassador that De Oranges comes to inform the Pope of the amity between Francis and the Emperor, and that in the matter of England they are unanimous, and the one would do nothing without the other. As Aguilar had no answer to his letter of 7 March, it was agreed that De Oranges should only speak in general terms about the remedy for England; which he did. The Pope's suspicion of the peace. As to the "medios fructos," the Pope hints he will grant them for the enterprise of England. (fn. 3) Naples The duchess of Florence, Castilnovo. &c. Rome, 16 May 1539.
	Spanish. Two modern copies from Simancas, each pp. 10. See Spanish Calendar VI. I., No. 62.
Ib. f. 138.	2. Modern English translation of the above.
	Pp. 3.
17 May. R. O.	976. ULMER PAPERS.
	A collection of copies of papers of the family of Bulmer in the reigns of Henry VII. and Henry VIII., that of latest date being (f. 112) a decree made in the Prince's council chamber at Westminster, 17 May 31 Hen. VIII., by Thos. lord Cromwell, Privy Seal, and others.
	Copies of 35 leases and other deeds.
[17] May. R. O.	977. SIR JOHN HODDYLSTON to SIR WM. KINGSTON.
	I commend me unto you and unto my lady your wife. I write to certify you that John Stratforth, of Cleve, and his servants, with divers of Sir John Abryges' servants, in all 40 and more, for the most part wearing privy coats,, murdered one of my servants at Cheltenham on Holy Thursday. I would desire you that a commission may be sent to the justice or sheriff to commit the murderers to jail without bail or mainprise. The maintainers of this matter are Sir John a Bryges and William his brother, Harry Tracye, and Cornewell, his son-in-law, "and these sends in leyth (light) fellows and is received with Stratforthe, of Cleve." We have Stratforth and another of Sir John Abryges' servants in custody, and desire that we may take and keep as many more as we can until the King's Council shall decide the matter. Sowtham, Saturday next after Holy Thursday.
	I trust you will see the offenders punished, and find some remedy that these maintainers may be bound in large sums not to bring in "leyth fellows out of Wales to do such acts."
	Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.: xxi^o Maii.
17 May. R.O.	978. BISHOP ROLAND LEE to CROMWELL.
	Lately I wrote that I and Mr. Sulyarde intended to be at Chester on Tuesday next. I have since been diseased of an ague, and am weak and not able to journey as yet. I beg your Lordship have me excused therein. No news here, but all quiet. Wigmore, 17 May. Signed.
	P.1. Add.: Lord Cromwell, lord Privy Seal. Endd.
18 May. Anstis' Order of the Garter, II. 413.	979. THE ORDER OF the GARTER.
	Notice of the installation of the new knights of the Order of the Garter at Windsor, 18 May 31 Hen. VIII. At the chapter then held it was resolved to consult the King about payment of contributions, how masses for the dead knights should be performed, and whether all the ensigns of knights condemned of high treason should thenceforward be taken away.
MS.L. f. 19, Coll. of Arms.	2. " At the installation of Sir John Russell, lord Russell and Sir Thomas Chene, treasurer of the King's household, lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, and Sir William Kyngestoune, controller of the King's honorable house, which was in Windsor the 17th (sic) day of May A^o 1539 and the xxxjth of the King's reign Henry the VIII."
	Description of the ceremony, in which the earls of Arundel and Rutland took part.
	Early copy, pp. 3.
Ib., f. 20b.	ii. List of the company at the feast at Windsor, 17 (sic) May, (fn. 4) 31 Hen. VIII.
	Early copy, pp. 1.
Add. MS. 6113, f. 60d. B.M.	3. Styles of noblemen, headed "A^o 31^o At St. George's Feast." The names are :—
	Wm. Fitz Alan earl of Arundel, the King's lieutenant at this noble feast, lord John Russell, Sir Thos. Cheynie, treasurer of the Household, Sir Wm. Kingston, comptroller.
	Added in another hand : Lord John Russell, president of the Council in the West.
	French, ½ p.
18 May. R.O.	980. [JOHN WORTH] to LORD LISLE.
	"Plessythe your Lordshep, so yt ys that there was a cote armor fownde yn the duchys of Salysbyrrys coffer, and by the on syde off the cote there was the Kyngs Grace ys armes of Ynglonde, that ys the lyons withowt the flowar delyssys, and abowte the holl armys was made pancys for Powll, (fn. 5) and marygoldes for my lady Mary. Thys was abowte the cote armer. And betwyxt the marygolde and the pancye was made a tree to rys yn the myddes, and on the tree a cote off purpell hangyng on a bowgh, yn tokynyng off the cote of Cryste, and on the other syde of the cote all the Passchyon of cryste. Powlle yntendyd to have marryd my lady Mary and betwyxt them boythe shuld agen a rys the olde Doetryne off Cryste. Thys was the yntent that the cote was made, as yt ys opynly knowyn yn the Parlament hows, as Master Syr George Speke shawyd me. And thys my lady Marques, my lady Salysbery, Sir Adryan Forskw, Sir Thomas Dyngly, with devers other ar atentyd to dy by acte a Parlement. Other nwys here ys none, but y am as y am bonde durynge lyffe to be at yowr Lordsheps commandyment and my synguler good Ladys your wyffe. At'London, the xviiith day of may." Signature torn off.
	In Worth's hand. Add.: My lorde Depute of Calles.
18 May. Wegener, Aarsberet- ninger, IV. 141.	981. DENMARK. (fn. 6)
	Reply of Christian III. to Hen. VIII., thanking him for his good wishes and congratulations, Thinks that the care of religion and the maintenance of the public peace is the duty of princes. As to the conversation of the Emperor with the English ambassador, thanks Henry for his friendly intimation of the Emperor's ill will. Knows well he rages with a more than Vatinian hatred against him on the pretence that Christiern was deprived of the kingdom of Denmark on his (the Emperor's) account. How unjust his feeling is may be seen by what his ambassadors at Smalcald showed before the bp. of Hereford, (fn. 7) touching Christiern and such pretexts during the late wars. Doubts not that if Henry will refer to the Bishop's letters and those of Christiern himself, he will see that under pretext of Christiern's restoration are agitated matters which would be no less hurtful to Christian than fatal to all other kings and princes. Has always protested that he is ready to prove his cause as regards Christiern before any impartial princes; but this protest is refused and war threatened against both him and the German princes, his confederates, who appeal in the cause of religion to the determination of Holy Scripture. A partial (peculiare) Council is to be made not to establish peace but to further private ends. Believes Henry has bad experience at home (domestico exemplo) of those who prefer force to justice. Is glad to hear that he is willing to join him against the Papists, and thinks the German princes should be informed of it, and that all they who hold to the sincere doctrine of the Gospel should send plenipotentiaries to treat for a league, to some safe place, in England or elsewhere, as Henry thinks best. Does not at once send his own ambassadors to treat with Henry, because he is pledged to the Elector of Saxouy and Landgrave of Hesse, chief captains of the confederates, to aid them if attacked, and he delays because he knows not when they may want his aid, and because he hopes that they will send their ambassadors with his, when the place of meeting is arranged. If, however, they cannot spare their counsellors at present, he will undertake to treat. Gives his own opinion upon religion, as in accordance with the confession of Augsburg. To have given in to his enemies would have been to throw himself and his subjects back in to the darkness of ignorance. Ex arce nostra Hadersleua (Hadersleben), 18 May 1539.
	Omitted to say that he earuestly begs Henry to consider what an assistance the confederacy of the Evangelical princes would be to him in his endeavour to shake off the yoke of the Roman Pontiff
	Latin.
18 May. Wegener, Aarsberet minger, IV. 144.	982. CHRISTIAN III. to HENRY. VIII.
	Henry's ambassadors will relate, and Christian's former letters will have declared, how sincerely he has treated of the maintenance of religion and of the public peace. Has committed to them to relate verbally certain matters in the treaty which his present position seems to demand, and sends his messenger with them to bring back Henry's answer. Ex arce nostra Hadersleua (Hadersleben), 18 May 1539.
	Latin.
Ib. 145.	2. Note that Christian's letters to the ambassadors are to the effect that he has written to the King and sent articles.
	Latin.
Ib. 145.	3. Articles to be treated in England.
	That, since it is uncertain when he may be invaded, he (Christian) may have 50,000 angelots wherewith to procure German horse and foot for his defence, to be repaid in six years under certain stated conditions. Learning with regret that differences have arisen between the kings of England and France, he will do his best to reconcile them, if he may know how to proceed.
	Latin.
19 May. R.O.	983. JOHN HUSEE to LADY LISLE.
	I have received your sundry letters, the one by Sir Oliver, the other by one of Calais, two days after, with all those mentioned therein. When I receive the rest of my Lord's money from Mr. Wyndsor I will dispose of it as instructed. Mr. Rolles has promised to common with me in two days what is best to be done. I cannot think Mr. Bonham means to go thorough for Soberton. He has offered but 40l. and taken 10l.of Schoryer, which my Lord means Shoryer to enjoy, so that the sale will be so much the worse. I send letter from Mr. James and Mrs. Katherine. My lady of Rutland has delivered me certain spices that I shall send with the gentlewoman. (fn. 8) I hear nothing yet from my lady Suffolk. London, 19 May.
	I send the answer of Mr. Harryce's letter.
	Hol., p. 1. Add. Sealed.
19 May. R.O.	984. GEORGE GYFFARD to CROMWELL.
	My wife, whose sickness I told you of at my last waiting on you, is considered beyond hope of recovery. Her son is of the age of 20½ years, and will be the King's ward if his mother die during his minority. I beg that I may have the ordering of him for my money, as I wish his advancement no less than if he were my own son. Please write to my lord St. John, master of the Wards, in my behalf. Cleydon, 19 May. Signed.
	P.1. Add.: Lord Cromwell lord Privy Seal. Endd.
19. May. Minerva MS.	985. THE BULL OF EXCOMMUNICATION.
	"Instruttione per Spagua nell' andata di Mons. Rever^mo. et Ill^mo. Car^le. Farnese a visitare I'Imperatore per la morte del Imp^ce. alli 19 Mag^o. 1539."
	Let the men of the Emperor and French king be sent into England to intimate to the King that if he does not return to the obedience of the Faith they will have to obey the bull issued against him and put it into execution.
	Italian. From a modern extract in R.O., p. 1.
Vatican MS.	2. Another copy. From a modern copy in R.O., p.1.
19 May. Add. MS. 28,591, f. 145. B. M.	986. AGUILAR to CHARLES V.
	Learnt by the letters of 21 April and 2 May the death of the Empress, and informed the Pope, who will send Card. Farnese. The Council. Rome, 19 May 1539.
	Spanish. Modern copy from Simancas, pp. 3.
	See Spanish Calendar, VI, I. No. 57 (where the document is inisdated April).
Ib. f. 147.	2 Modern English abstract of the above.
	P. 1.
	See Spanish Calendar, VI. I. No. 64.
19 May. Add. MS. 28,591,f. 141. B.M.	987. AGUILAR to CHARLES V.
	"Lo que escrive el Marques de Aguilar 16, 19 de Mayo 1539. Respondido todo de Toledo a 4 de Jullio 1539 con Mosquera."
	Substance of the letters (see under dates) with the Emperor's conclusions upon each article in the margin.
	Spanish. Modern copy from Simancas, pp. 7.
	See Spanish Calendar, VI. I. No. 63.
20 May. Kaulek, 98.	988. MARILLAC to FRANCIS I.
	[London], 20 May :— Has received his letter from Chastillon sur Loing. Has laboured to assure this King of the continued friendship of Francis, a thing which is ratber necessary now to maintain than to be at much trouble to acquire, this King being sufficiently inclined thereto by self-interest. And although some news which have come to this Court of late have given the English much to think of, _ as from Spain of the death of the Empress, which is here believed, and which enables the Emperor to enter upon new alliances, _ and from the Levant, of the truce between Venice and the Turk, which they say the Venetians themselves affirm to have been made by the mediation of Francis, (and they doubt lest when the affairs of the Levant are pacified the Pope will turn the forces of Christendom to the West against this King to execute the ill turn he believes the Pope meditates against him for exempting himself from his obedience); still, it is not thought that this year their neighbours will attempt anything against them, for their professed faith in Francis, their own great preparations, and the little provision they know that the Emperor has made. To these considerations may be added the news of the Council which they say is assembling at Vincenza; before the end of which summer will be almost gone, and they will have had time to complete their fortifications everywhere where an enemy might land. They continue these (but more coldly), and also the equipping of the fleet which they will make 120 sail and furnish with 10,000 men. Musters have been made everywhere : the last were those of London where Marillac counted about 15,000 Englishmen without any foreigners, and 10,000 of them were armed in white from head to knee.
	Little is known of what is concluded in Parliament, which has been engaged from the first in providing for the security of the realm, for which the King demands money, but they reply coldly enough. They are also discussing the reduction of certain abbeys of which they wish to make bishoprics, the foundation of schools for children, and hospitals for the poor, and also the process of certain ladies who are prisoners in the Tower, as the wife of the late marquis Carent, (fn. 9) kinsman of this King, with a cousin (cousine) of hers, and of the mother of cardinal Pole, whose sentences are expected daily, and apparently will be rather bad than good, for them.
	Cannot omit that since Easter a ship of Bretons had been taken in these seas by English corsairs, who drowned all the sailors except one, who, as if by a miracle, swam six miles to shore. Hearing this, Marillac complained to the "chiefs de la Justice," who have done their duty so well that the said robbers have been in less than 15 days taken and condemned, and six of them executed yesterday. Eight more remain in ward to be confronted with certain accomplices who have been freshly taken. Hopes that in a week they will keep their companions company.
	French.
	* A modern transcript is in R.O.
20 May. Kaulek, 99.	989. MARILLAC to MONTMORENCY.
	[London], 20 May :—Replied in advance, 5 May, to the letters of the 6th. Takes all pains to entertain the Emperor's ambassador, who is lodged near him, and whom he frequently visits, communicating to him all that he rightly can to demonstrate the amity between their masters. Considers him an honest man who speaks what he thinks; but he seems to be only here pending the coming of another from the Emperor, from whom he has as yet no instruction. Moreover, he has little experience of affairs of state; so that Marillac is the more careful to tell him nothing but what he wishes the English to know.
	Waits for the English to speak again about the Bibles, to tell them the reply was given long ago by the Privy Council to their ambassador, and say, if they press for it, that it was such as Montmorency's letters report,
	The Portuguese who damaged two French ships have been so chastised that they will reflect another time before attempting a like folly. Writes to Francis the death of the Empress, and the truce the Venetians have made with the Turk, as they say, by the sole mediation of Francis. They wonder at this, saying Francis makes peace or war as he thinks good, and they ask how affairs proceed, and whether the Emperor is coming this year to Flanders as reported, and if it is not likely that he will come through France. When he replies that he knows nothing of it but what they tell him they are astonished that he has no special advice from France. Likewise it is bad for them that the diet of Frankfort has resolved upon terms favourable to the Ecclesiastics, and all the more opposed to what they had proposed. At this Parliament they have not yet come to any conclusion on what had been proposed. Some say the Parliament will finish without any determination being come to, and that it may be prorogued until September; however, it is commonly said that sentence of death has been decreed against the three ladies mentioned in the letter to Francis, and also against a gentleman and a priest (fn. 10) of the household of the late Marquis, and that in three or four days they will be brought from the Tower to Westminster to have it pronounced upon them, Because these news are important, thought best to write as he did to Francis, until the truth were known; however, some who may well know affirm that this is so, and will happen unless the King pardon them. Refers to Francis' letters as to the musters from all parts, and especially of London, (which some thought amounted to 50,000 men, thought they were only 15,000), and the continuance of naval preparations: for the latter purpose some Venetian ships have been arrested (among them one of 700 tons) and a vessel of Raguses of 500 tons—signs that though they say they are well provided for this year they are by no means free from anxiety. Four days ago a proclamation was issued that no man, however familiar he be with the King, should carry a sword in any palace or house in which this King shall be, —a thing which many interpret as they think good,
	The ambassadors of the dukes of Saxony and the Landgrave d'Ez are still here awaiting answer to their demand, which is said to be for pecuniary aid. Thinks the reply will be regulated by circumstances, as they find they have need of them or can do without them, but they keep their affairs very close. This week the King goes hence, to Gravesines (fn. 11) to see a fortress he has commenced, (fn. 12) where foreign ships coming here shall unload their artillery, as is done near Bordeaux at Blaye. After Whitsuntide he will go to his parks for the pleasure of the chase, which people call his progress.
	French.
	* A modern transcript is in R. O., with which the text in Kaulek has been compared.
20 May. R.O.	990. JOHN HUSEE to LORD LISLE.
	I have received your letters by Sir Oliver, and delivered my lord Privy Seal's and Mr. Wriothesley's letters. Both will not fail to speak in behalf of your licence. Thinks some discreet order will be taken respecting the blessed Sacrament of the Altar before this Parliament is prorogued. Some that are now busy in scanning the nature of the same, intending to frame so excellent a thing after their carnal judgment, will hereafter tremble for their irreverent use of it against all Christian faith and religion. How soon my lord Privy Seal intends to go through with you for the land in Glo'stershire I do not know. Until he has his assurance of the land there will be no grant passed for the Friars; and yet then only for term of life. Mr. Bonham offers now for Soberton only 40l. If he goes down will see to the affair. London, 20 May.
	Will write within two days "how the Parliament doth pass."
	Hol., p. 1. Sealed. Add.
20 May. R.O.	991. MATHO BOYNTON to CROMWELL.
	Has viewed the number of men within the liberties of St. Mary's Abbey, in his charge, of which he sends a book by the bearer. Has been sore diseased this half year, or he would have waited upon Cromwell. There are divers stewardships granted to the earl of Hampton and lord Scrope, before Cromwell's patent, which makes the number of men less than were accustomed to serve the King under the head steward. St. Mary's Abbey, 20 May. Signed.
	P.1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
R.O.	992. THE KING'S DEBTORS.
	"Process for the King at the request of Mr. Treasurer."
	List of names (evidently debtors to the King for fines or on obligations) after each of which is written "sol." "fiat process." or the like. Names are:—Robt. Riche, Edm. Mordant, Giles Pulton, Ant. Cope, Wm. Butt Th.Hatcliff, abbot of Shape, abbot of Bitlesden, prior of Huntingdon, abbess of Wynton, prior of Hull Charterhouse, earl of Rutland for Water, prior of Kyme, prior of Newsted. Notts., prior of Ulvescroft, Th. Bridges, Rob. Acton, John Hynde. Serjeant-at-law, abbot of Alnwick, Sir Edw. Baynton, John Hynde for Anglesey, Sir John Spilman, abbot of Strataflorida, Laycok, prior of St. Thomas the Martyr, abbess de la Pree, of Canonlegh, of Polsloo, John White, Fras. Brian and John Cope, Crokesdon, Staff., Th. Hennege pro grangia de Towes, "Higham, no^m. the date of the acquittance was in March a^o 30 Hen. VIII.", abbot of Dalee, Wm. Tayllour, prioress of Chester "pro recogn." 25 Sept. 27 Hen. VIII., Robt. Drury, abbot of Nethe, Edm. Bedyngfeld, prior of Wormesley, abbot of Raucester, prioress of Lymebroke, Wallyngwelles, Edw. Hopton of Buryngton, Heref., for 8l. 5s. 2d., Sir Edw. Grey, lord Powes, Sir John Russell of Tristram, Worc., abbot of Hilton, lord Scrope of Bolton, Thos. Myldemay "pro terr. de Elsyngspitell," Sir John Markeham, abbot of Pollesworth, Ant. Coke, Robt. Sturges, Ric. Freston, Hen. Cruche, _ (blank) Walleys, Ric. Sturges, Humph. Reynolds, Leonard Worsley, lord Latimer for Nonne Monketon, Ric. Wharton, Wm. Rokewode," "fiat process. versus executores," Wm. Smythe of London (?), prioress of Stixwold, priory of Coventry, Wm. Fynderne, Repton, John Gostwyke "pro terr. de Warden," abbot of St. James', Northampton, Sir Edw. Bray, abbot of Alba Landa, Nic. Strelley, Geo. Paslowe, Sir John Russell, Walt. Walshe, Hen. Walshe and Ric. Cokkes of Salwarpe, Worc., Lewis Aphoellald, Lewis Bulle, Jas. Colyer, Wm. Culpeper, Rob. Tirwitt, Th. Nevell of Holt, Sir Nic. Poynes and John Poynes, Geo. Owen, John Gostwike "pro terr. in Ravensden," Beds, 2 March 29 Hen. VIII., Jas. Cruce, Jas. Nedeham, Sir John Seyntloo, prior of Bewall, Th. Hilton, Th. Keyll, Wm. Bolles, 4 Sept. 30 Hen. VIII., Fras. Dawtrey, 20 March 30 Hen. VIII., Brusyerd, Sir Marm. Constable of Everingham, Ralph Dodde, Th. Bromley of Norbery in Marbery parish, Chesh., Hen. Elyott, alias Plommer of Wyswall More, Lane., Geo: Cotton, John White of Heson, Middx., Fras. Cave, LL.D., Wm. Cowper Th. Evans of Holt, Worc., Th. Wriothesley, And. Flamok, Sir John Dudley, Walt. Cromwell, Th. Legh, LL.D., Walt. Williams alias Crumwell, Th. Wriothesley, Sir Wm. Basset, Edw. Draycot of Haslyngton, Glouc., Sir Wm. Basset and Th. Basset, Steph. Bagott, Ph. Parys, Robt. Dormer, John Weston of Lichfeld, Th. Evans of Bordesley, Worc., Jas. Leveson of Wolverhampton, Staff., Steph. Bagott, Roland Edwards, John Haryngton, Th. Gaffard, Fras. Leke, Roger More, Edw. (sic) Deverox lord Ferrers, Edw. earl of Derby, bp. of Lichfield, Fras. Pele, Sir Hen. Sacheverell, Oliver Thakker, Sir Wm. Parr, John Beamoud, John Badcok, Harold Rosell, Ric. Whalley (after this name is added :" no^m the date of the recogn. dat. xx. die Maii a^o 31 Hen. VIII."), Ric. Greneway, John Panter, Jas. Smyth, Ric. Legh, John Edmondes, Alex. Unton, John Wiseman de Canfeld.
	In Sir R. Riche's hand, pp. 8.
20 May. R.O.	993. COUNCIL OF IRELAND to CROMWELL.
	Have before written that Edmund Sextene was accused by the citizens of Limerick, and hear also that the abp. of Casshell and Walter Cowley, the King's solicitor, who were commissioners there for certain purposes have done the same. Favoured him as the King's servant, but cannot support him in his practises for the confusion of the city. Beg he will favour the citizens in obtaining confirmation of their liberties. Dublin, 20 May. Signed: John Alen, K's. Chaunceler, James Butler, Georgius Dublin., Will'm. Brabason, Gerald Aylmer, justice, Thomas Lutrell, justice, Richard Delahid, baron.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Cromwell, lord Privy Seal.
R.O.	994. CITY OF LIMERICK to CROMWELL.
	Petition in consideration of their isolated situation among the King's enemies:—(1) That the "proditorious proceedings" of Edmund Sexten may be heard and examined. (2) That they may have their charters confirmed, with leave to deal with the Irish about them. (3) That they may have the house of Holy Cross in Limerick, which Sexten has procured by pretending he spent his goods in the King's service, which he spent to fortify the King's rebels.
	P. 1. Add. at head: Lord Cromwell, lord Privy Seal. Endd.
Lamb. MS. 602, f. 157.	995. PETITION OF EDMOND SEXTON to [CROMWELL.]
	"Most honorable Lord," Bartilmewe Striche falsely alleges that Sexton never spent any of his own money on the King's affairs, but that he did everything at the expense of the city of Limerick; for when the King sent Sexton and Justice Hothe to Thos. FitzGerald, perceiving his detestable behavior, he returned immediately to tell-the King at his own cost, besides 6l. 13s. 4d. which he spent for the freight of a ship, and 55l. which he left in Ireland and has not yet been repaid. Within four days after his repairing to Langley, the King and [Cromwell], being there, sent him to Mounster with letters to the lords there and to Thos. earl of Desmond, and he brought back an answer. This journey was at his own cost. Immediately on his return, was again sent to Mounster twice, and kept the King's subjects there during the rebellion, all at his own cost. Was frequently sent by the Deputy to O'Brien, John and Jas. Desmond and others on the King's business, at his own cost. Was also at the taking of Knok Grafton, co. Tubrary, and of Dungarvan Castle. When Thos. FitzGerald was in O'Brien's country, Sexton and John Arthur, mayor of Limerick, offered Donogh O'Brien, O'Brien's eldest son, 1,000 ducats to give him up to them, which he promised to do. Gave him 40l. to pay his gallowglasses, and other money when he was at Sexton's house, and has never been repaid for it. All this was before he was chosen mayor of Limerick.
	His services while mayor of Limerick.
	Soon after his election, went to England with letters to the King from lords in these parts, and, at the King's wish, made a book about the reformation of Ireland, remaining in England from Christmas till after Midsummer at his own expense. On his return, went to the Deputy at Kilkenny and was sent by him with justice Aylmore to Jas. of Desmond,. O'Brien and others. Was at the first and second takings of the castle called Carrick Ogennell, and at the taking of O'Brien's bridge. Hearing that the bishop of Kylalowgh and two of his sons were in a certain place, went out of Limerick at midnight to take them; but found they had escaped, and so he took their horses and returned. Captured Donell O'Brien's galley at night, and brought her to Limerick. Burnt Kilgwane and Clonmowlayne in O'Brien's country. Slew, by two of his servants, Slogo, a rebel, who had threatened to burn Limerick. Caused Edmund Bourke to restore 16l. in recompense for goods stolen from the King's poor subjects.
	His services after his mayoralty.
	Assaulted a castle on the island of Ellandregan, burnt the town and carried off part of the goods. Caused one Mawhan Bakka's son, an enemy of the King, to be taken, and put into jail. He was afterwards delivered by Bartilmewe Strich, then mayor, without the King's or Deputy's licence. Caused Wm. Fitz James Fitz Gerald, to restore a great prey he had taken from the people of Limerick. One of his servants brought to Limerick a prey of cattle taken by their enemies the night before. When the Deputy came last to Limerick, on his way to O'Brien's bridge, about Lammas last, persuaded Jas. Fitz John of Desmond, to meet the Deputy 10 miles before Limerick, and he remained in the Deputy's camp all night. On the next day went with Stephen Ap harry to meet the said James and O'Brien at 10 miles from Limerick, and O'Brien, at James' persuasion, consented to serve the Deputy. The day after, was sent to bring James of Desmond to meet the Deputy at O'Brien's bridge, where he met both Desmond and O'Brien, who remained with him till they came to Galway. Was at his own costs during the whole journey. One of his servants brought a prey of 7 score kine from one Teg Mak Donough, an Irish enemy, in revenge for his destroying the "Elewere" (eel-weir?) near Limerick. Recovered the castle of Clonkeleaff from Morough O'Brien's servants, who had taken it from certain gentlemen in Bourke's country. The same night carried away three boats, one of 10 oars, which belonged to Morough O'Brien, at Castle Connell, and which he used for plundering the King's subjects on the south side of the river of Limerick.
	Pp. 6. Endd. [See Carew Calendar, No. 135].
Add. MS. 19,865 f. 1. B.M.	996. EDMUND SEXTON. (fn. 13)
	A statement by Edmund Sexton of his services to the King and expenses sustained in the same, commencing, "Forasmuch, Right Honourable Lords, as in the contention had before your wisdoms, amongst other things my service to the King's Majesty is deemed by my lord Deputy not to be such as did deserve the bountiful remuneration of his Highness unto me." Gives copies of letters, most of which are already noted in this Calendar, as follows:—
	I. f. 1d. Hen. VIII. to Sexton, 11 Sept. 26 H. VIII. Cal. VII., 1144.
	II. f. 2. The Deputy and Council of Ireland to Henry VIII., 18 July [1537]. Cal. XII. Pt. ii. 281.
	III. f. 3. Lord Leonard Grey to the Mayor of Limerick, undated [1536]. Cal. XI. 205.
	IV. f. 3d. Henry VIII. to the Deputy and Council of Ireland, 3 June [1536]. Cal. XI. 1050.
	v. f. 4. Henry VIII. to the city of Limerick, 31 May [1535]. Cal. VIII. 784.
	VI. f. 5. Henry VIII. to the Mayor of Limerick, undated. Thanking them for their services against Irish rebels and desiring them always to aid Sexton against them in future, without those unbecoming grudges that some of them have shown towards him.
	VII. f. 6. The Irish Commissioners to Sexton, 1 April 1538. Cal. XIII. Pt. I. No. 654.
	VIII. f. 6d. Cromwell to the Irish Commissioners, 30 Sept. [1537]. Cal. XII. Pt. II. 782.
	IX. f. 7. The lord Deputy and Council of Ireland to Henry VIII.
	[Extract, desiring favour for Sexton, the King's servant, who is conducting the earl of Desmond to the King and was much the Occasion of the said Earl's submission. Undated, but apparently the letter was written in Feb. 1541. See St. P. III. 289.]
	X.f. 7. Henry VIII. to Sir John of Desmond, 11 Sept. [1534]. Cal. VII. 1145.
	XI. f. 8. The same to the same, 26 April [1535]. Cal. VIII. 594.
	XII. f. 9d. The same to the same, 31 May [1535]. Cal. VIII. 783.
	XIII. f. 11d. The same to the same, 27 Jan. 1534 [-5]. Cal. VIII. 114.
	XIV. f. 12. The same to James Fitz John of Desmond, 27 June (qu. Jan. ?), 1534[-5]. Cal. VIII. 115.
	XV. f. 12d. The earl of Desmond's submission, 20 June [1538]. Cal. XIII. Pt. I. 1226.
	XVI. f. 13d. The earl of Desmond's promise to Sexton. Cal. XIII. Pt. I. 1226 (2).
	f. 14. Hereafter follow the costs of Edm. Sexten in defence of Deriknockaue castle, at the lord Deputy and Council's command, and in other services.
	The lord Deputy, after taking the castle, left four Englishmen there, at Sexton's charge, for 21 days at 4d. a day, 28s. The lord Deputy, on departing, would not leave his men, but commanded me to set in a ward; and I set in 4 gunners for 10 weeks at 7d. a day, 9l. 5s., and for shot and powder 5s. 1d. After that, perceiving that the Deputy came not, I hired a constable, set him in with victuals, wine, &c., worth 20s., a horse at 6l. and hackney at 40s. I was charged with the said castle six years and suppose it cost me 20l. I was sent in commission (fn. 14) with the earl of Desmond, the bishop ("ble[...].") of Emley and Mr. Syarde (sic, misreading of" Agarde") for the suppression of all the religious houses in Munster, and suppose the journey cost me 10l.: "others could be paid well enough, but I cannot." When the King, upon certain answer, sent Sexton to the traitor Thomas FitzGerald, Sexton, perceiving the most detestable behaviour of that traitor, repaired to the King and certified the same; which cost him, in freight alone, 8l. 8s. 4d.
	Moreover, 55l. was due to Sexton by the earl of Kildare, as appears from the following letters :—(1.) [Kildare to _.] Commands him to pay Kildare's servant. Edm. Sexten the arrears of wages due to him, at 8l. a year, since last paid by James Boys; perusing first the reckoning of the account between Sexton and the writer, taken before Boys and Davy Sutton. London, 30 April 26 Hen. VIII. (2.) [Lord Thomas FitzGerald to _]. Perceives from Mr. Delayne and Boyse, that my Lord his father owes Edm. Sexten 55l. Irish. Commands it to be paid. Ballydullane, 22 Aug. 1534.
	On returning from Ireland, Sexton repaired to the King at Langley, who, within four days, sent him back with letters to the lords there, especially Thomas earl of Desmond, upon which he brought answer. The Journey was at his own cost. He was forthwith sent back to Munster with letters to the lords there; and, similarly, brought answer. After this he was sent with divers letters of instruction to the lords there as their own letters, in the rebellion time, testify.
	The lord Deputy and Council sent him to practise with the earl of Desmond, O'Brien, John of Desmond and his son James, Donough O'Brien, and others, all at his own cost. Was, at his own cost, at the taking of Knockgraffon castle in Tipperary, where none other of his district was; and also at the taking of Downegarwane castle, as the earl of Ormond, Sir John St. Lowe, Sir Rice Maunsell, and others can testify. When Thomas FitzGerald was in O'Brien's country, Donough O'Brien came to Sexton's house in Limerick, who sent for John Arthure, then mayor, to commune about the taking of the said Thomas, for which Sexton offered 1,000 ducats. Donough promised to do his best if Sexton would lend him 40l. sterling to pay his galloglasses, and Sexton did so; but has received nothing in recompense, except 22l. from the lord Deputy and Council four years ago. Soon after, he was desired by John of Desmond's son James, O'Brien, Donough O'Brien, and others, to inform the King of the state of the country, "with their letters also." Repaired to the King accordingly and was commanded to make a book for the reformation of those parts; on which he was continually engaged from Christmas until a fortnight after Midsummer, at his own cost, save 20 mks. of reward. On coming home into Ireland, repaired to the lord Deputy at Kilkenny, who sent Justice Aylmer and him to James of Desmond, O'Brien, and others. Was at the taking of Carige O'Guynill the first time, at the breaking of O'Brien's bridge, and there in danger both by water and land, and at the taking of Carige O'Guynill the second time. Learning the whereabouts of the bishop ("bbe") of Killalowe and two of his sons, issued out of the city at midnight to take them; but they escaped and Sexton took only their horses. Took O'Brien's galley in the river, by night, which would have done much damage. Burned a town of O'Brien's called Kilkowane, a village called Clonomblame, and part of the country. By two of his men, slew one Sloco, a rebel who had threatened to burn Limerick. Caused Edm. Bourke and his sons to restore 16l. worth of goods they had taken from the city of Limerick. Went into an island called Illan Tregan to take a castle, and fought with great numbers, divers being slain, and burned the town and brought away his own men safe. Caused one Mellaghlin Backagh's son, who had put one of the poor citizens to ransom for 16l., to be taken and to pay the said poor man 24l. Caused Wm. FitzJames, one of the Geraldines, to restore a prey he had taken. One of his servants brought back to the city a prey of cattle taken the night before.
	When the lord Deputy came towards Limerick, he sent to Sexton to entreat James of Desmond to meet him in Dermot O'Mulrian's country, where the said James lay in the lord Deputy's camp all night. Next day the lord Deputy came to Limerick and rested four or five days, and then went towards O'Brien's Bridge and sent Sexton for James of Desmond. With much difficulty, brought the said James; but the bridge was broken the second time, and he marched forward through O'Brien's country, burning the country until he came to Ballyconilly castle, which he took. "In the next he took the castle of Clare," and so after a mile or two towards Galway, when his Lordship licensed the said James to return with Sexton. All this journey was at Sexton's own cost. Took a castle called Clonkefe soon after the lord Deputy left Limerick, which servants of Morrogh O'Brien, the King's enemy, had taken from a gentleman named Bourke. Went on the morrow to a strong castle of the King's ancestors. (* The copy here seems to be defective, but apparently means that Sexton captured a half galley and a boat belonging to Morrogh O'Brien.)
	Modern copy, pp. 36. Headed: "My grandfather his service to K. Henry VIII., left written by himself in a book with the ocation of co lecting (sic) thereof lefte for memory."
Add. MS. 19, 865, f. 19. B. M.	997. EDMUND SEXTON.
	A declaration of the havens, &c., of Ireland "from Lupes head, which is the further land a sea board by north the river of Limerick, as also within the said river," collected by Edm. Sexten, one of the sewers of the chamber to Henry VIII.
	First there is an island eight miles within the head called Inish Scatty. where there are merchants of Limerick having castles and stone houses of their own inheritance; where also is great idolatry to a stock called the Shenand, and a provost or warden belonging to a great old church, who may dispend 100 mks. a year. There is no place in the west so meet for a fortress for the King, which, if the earl of Thomond and his alliance should rebel—and as yet they are not brought to any order—would be a death to them. The earl of Desmond and all those quarters would be in awe thereof, and a ship of 60 tons with two or three galleys wonld keep all the Irishmen from. Waterford to Galway in fear. Within the great river is the river of Forrogus, upon which the manor of Clare stands, and Thomond's chief manor called Clomond, and a house of friars "which standeth as yet." There is also an island called Illan Vooragh with a castle and a fair manor of Thomond's called Ballyconilleth. Then, between that and Bonraty is Chanons Island, with a house of canons and a castle meet for subduing those quarters.
	Similar descriptions of other places at the mouth of the Shannon, and then of creeks, &c., round by Bantry Bay to Cork and so to Wicklow, but these latter places are more briefly dealt with.
	II. "A declaration of the proportion of Ireland, by Edmund Sexten."
	Giving the length and breadth of the country, the number of towns, baronies, and ploughlands, and estimating that if the King had 6s. 8d. a year from every ploughland (which is 120 acres), that alone would amount to 17,786l. 13s. 4d.
	Modern copy, pp. 9. Described in the heading as found among old papers of Sexten's handwriting.
20 May. R. O.	998. WILLIAM LORD SANDYS to HENRY VIII.
	Sends news from France received this morning, though they are not all trne. Guysnes, 20 May.
	Since writing, the spy whom he sent to Langstrete has returned, this 20 May, and reports that of the 15,000 men of war' 10,000 had left the day before he arrived there to join the bp. of Luke, who is laying siege to Mynstre. The rest, by the Bp.'s command, are disposed in sundry places about Langstrete. The duke of Gueldres has entered Mynstre, and keeps it as a rebel to the Emperor. Returning by the edge of Holland the spy met divers of the men of war retained for the 150 hulks which were to have passed westward with guns, &c., the ships being discharged and the ordnance relanded. The men said they meant to try and be retained either by the bp. of Luke or by Gueldres. Signed.
	Pp. 2. Add. Endd.
20 May. R. O.	999. LORD SANDYS to CROMWELL.
	Sends the King news brought from France and Langstrete. Dare not send them as "matter of effect," but to perform his duty. Guysnes, 20 May 31 Hen. VIII.
	Reminds him of the munitions for the castle. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
20 May. R. O. [1539 or earlier?]	1000. ADRIENNE DE MORTAINGGNE to LADY LISLE.
	I cannot sufficiently thank you for the honour and friendship you have shown me, and I beg that if there be anything in which I can do you service you will command me. Gravelines, 20 May.
	Hol., Fr., p. 1. Add.: Madame la Debytis de Calles au dyt lyuue.