Henry VIII: February 1546, 16-20 | British History Online

Pages 109-122

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 21 Part 1, January-August 1546. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1908.

Citation:

February 1546, 16-20



16 Feb.	222. Henry VIII. to the Duke of Mantua.
Venetian Calendar v. No. 372.	In favour of Ludovico da l'Armi, now sent to Italy on business. Westm., "die 16 Februarii 1546."
16 Feb.	223. The Queen's Auditor.
R. O.	Bill of receipt by John Latton from Henry Whythorne, "citizen," by the hands of Ant. Bocher, of 20s. 16 Feb. 37 Hen. VIII. Signed and sealed.
	Small slip, p. 1.
16 Feb.	224. Sir Anthony Browne.
	See Grants in February, No. 34.
16 Feb.	225. Bells Embezzled.
	See Grants in February, No. 35.
16 Feb.	226. Ireland.
Irish Patent Roll, 37 Hen. VIII, m. 5d.	Summons of Sir Ant. St. Leger to England, and appointment of Wm. Brabazon (fn. n1) as lord Justice of Ireland in his absence. Westm., 16 Feb. 37 Hen. VIII.
	See Morrin's Calendar, p. 125; also Grants in February, No. 33.
16 Feb.	227. Scepperus to Granvelle.
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 193.	Wrote briefly what passed with the English ambassadors on the 13th inst. at Bois le Due; but the more he thinks of the expressions used by Winchester the more suspicious they seem. Put them in writing for Granvelle's instruction in case they are repeated to the Emperor, or elsewhere. Indeed there seems small chance of negociating with regard to the marriage or the merchants unless the subsidy which the English demand is either refused on the ground of non-fulfilment of the treaty and damage done by their troops in the years '43 and '44 (without mentioning the Liège complaint) or else put oft" upon pretext that the Emperor would first settle with the Council as to the period for which the subvention is demanded. Thinks that Winchester would stomach the latter course better than a blank negative. Perhaps Granvelle might devise some other expedient to avoid throwing the English into the arms of their enemies (of which they would repent, but too late to serve us)—if it is expedient for the Emperor to maintain friendship with England. Desires to be distinctly instructed herein because sure that "this question will be the first raised, especially as he learns here that Dr. Nicholas Wotton, formerly ambassador to the Emperor, whom Granvelle knows to be an aigre man, is taken into the Privy Council.
	Hertford and Gamboa have returned from Boulogne to England, and Conrad Penninck is commissioned to retain ten standards of infantry. Great war preparations are made in England, and the King refuses the services of Count Rithberg or any who served Henry of Brunswick on the ground that they are well disposed to the Holy See. This, together with Winchester's long stay here and expressions recently, makes the writer suspect other negociations than those with the Emperor. Has given the copy of the last treaty to Jacques, the clerk of Secretary Bave, and will deposit the original ratification with the president of the Privy Council. Has been three times to England without knowing what remuneration he is to have. Awaits his despatch. Bruges, 16 Feb. 1546.
16 Feb.	228. Vaughan to Henry VIII.
R. O.	Jasper Dowche returned today, as he promised, and said that the Fowger, fearing lest the King should sell the fustians under his accustomed price, and so depreciate their value hereafter, required a promise that they should not be sold for less than the King gave for them. Loathing to hear of "these lingerings," Vaughan undertook to promise this, thinking that the King might afterwards do as he pleased; and Jasper said that he would bring certain report from the Fowger before tomorrow night. Having so often written vain things upon his report, told him that he would henceforth write no reports that did not seem more substantially handled than this; and he departed, greatly touched, saying that henceforth his reports should be trustworthy. Will within two days despatch Mr. Brend and Mr. Brygendyn, the King's commissaries. Paid them 3,000 dallers and 80 phillippus gilderns, in crowns, wherewith they despatched Conrade Pennynck, yesterday, towards Fryseland. Will pay them the rest of the 3,000l. st. appointed by the Council when he can get French crowns, which will not be (as he lately signified) without giving ¼ per cent interest. This day received a letter from Mr. Dymok, who has sent to Dort in Holland to buy 2,000 qr. or 3,000 qr. of wheat, but knows not how to export it because of the Emperor's restraint; also he would know at what prices to buy bacon, butter and cheese. Would gladly know whether the King writes to the Lady Regent for licence to transport hence 200,000 cr. to Calles or Bullyn. Without it, cannot trust to provide any money. Chr. Mownt signifies the news of Almayn. Andwerp, 16 Feb.
	P.S.—Has another letter from Dymok, who writes that 16,000 qr. of corn are come to Dorte and he has sent to buy as much as he has commission to buy. It is come thither by the Ryne and is much better and sweeter than corn out of Estland. Dymok desires more money than the Council appointed, which is but 1,000l. or 1,600l. Please "let me be advertised of your pleasure in time, for so is it necessary."
	Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.: 1545.
16 Feb.	229. Vaughan to Paget and Petre.
R. O.	Writes to the King of Jasper Dowche's report from the Fowker about the emprunture of 30,000l. in money and 10,000l. in fustians, and of Mr. Dymok's proceedings. As to these, and the licence for which he also wrote, desires speedy answer. On the 13th wrote to the King and them "under Bartilmew Compaigne's factor's letters" of Chr. Haller's talk. At his arrival here sent Sir Edw. Wotton, "treasurer there," 16,000 French crowns and odd, upon the lord Chancellor's command by mouth. Begs a letter of the King's approval thereof, to be shown to the auditor of his account. Sends letters from Mr. Mownt and Mr. Dymok. Andwerp, 16 Feb. 1545.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
16 Feb.	230. Charles V. to Prince Philip.
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 196.	Wrote from Bois le Duc,—but briefly, owing to indisposition; and from Bomel sent Covos a letter by a Portuguese. Had no sooner finished the celebration of the Golden Fleece at Utrecht than he was attacked with gout but is recovered and passing through Gueldres, in hope to reach Ratisbon by the middle or end of March. Meanwhile the Conference will try to make some arrangement about the religious question. Sends the Chief Postmaster, Raymundo de Tassis, to Philip with instructions. Philip already knows of the enterprise planned last year to bring back the Protestants to the true faith, the aid offered by the Pope therein, and the Emperor's request to him for the half first fruits and monastic manors. Subsequently Marquina brought His Holiness's decision and the Nuncios requested that the capitulations to begin the enterprise might be at once signed; but the Emperor has deferred it until his arrival at Ratisbon on the plea of consulting the King of the Romans. The Bull for the first fruits is here and will be despatched to Spain, while the other, for the sale of monastic lands, is being drawn, and Juan de Vega has instructions to send it thither; but assurance must be given that the proceeds will not be collected until the capitulation is signed, nor spent otherwise than is stipulated by his Holiness. Will so arrange matters as to be in Spain as early as possible. Venlo, 16 Feb. 1546.
16 Feb.	231. Charles V. to Prince Philip.
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 197.	The other letter explains the sending of this courier: this contains what seems most important. Deferred signing the capitulation because secrecy is so necessary, and that he might assure the princes on the road to Ratisbon, who will certainly ask about it, that nothing has been done to disquiet them. Experience has proved that the Protestants will do nothing of their own accord, and that without prompt remedy the evil will spread, to the danger even of these Low Countries. Is bound by his position to God's service, but his exertions have been frustrated by the obstinacy of the Protestants and the efforts of "certain persons"; and the present time is opportune as there is truce with the Turk, the French have their hands full with the English and their own poverty, the Emperor is well armed and the Pope has granted him the bulls for the first fruits and sale of monastic manors, so that, with the amount promised by the Pope, he hopes to have money enough to maintain the army for the necessary period. Discussed the question at Worms with the King of the Romans, and has weighed it maturely and decided, with God's help to undertake the enterprise this year even if all the funds expected are not forthcoming. After signing the capitulation at Ratisbon in the middle of March, will set about providing for the army. Men and artillery will be easily found, and victuals too, as the country about Ratisbon is abundantly supplied, being near the duke of Bavaria's country, the Archduke's dominions and the county of Tyrol; besides that the Catholic princes and free cities must help in a matter which so deeply concerns them. There is such division among Protestants, even in households, that he trusts in God so to direct the affair that the end may come sooner and more easily than expected. Care must be taken to ensure the Pope's fulfilment of his promise. Will use such force and rapidity that the Protestants will not be able to defend themselves, and it is thought that when some territory is captured and exemplary punishment is inflicted the whole will submit. Sends the bull for the first fruits, and Juan de Vega will send that for the monastic manors. Only Covos must know this, and be instructed to use all dissimulation with those whom he employs to gather the money, which must be sent as soon as possible to Genoa, Milan and Venice; for it is not advisable to deal with the Fuggers and Belzares, who live in Augsburg, and money could not be brought safely from Flanders.
	* * * *
	Had written thus far when he received Philip's of the 26th ult., to which he replies in another letter. Remains in the same mind as regards the enterprise, which is vital both for Christendom and for himself. Diligence and care must be used in raising the money for the half first-fruits and monastic manors. For funds needed in Spain, suggests an assembly of the Cortes of Aragon and a loan on the Bull of St. Peter which will be preached at the end of next year. Venlo, 16 Feb. 1546.
16 Feb.	232. Charles V. to Prince Philip.
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 195.	Glad to learn, by his of the 26th ult., received as the Chief Postmaster was leaving, that he, the infantas and Don Carlos were well. Is himself better and goes to-morrow by Venlo towards Maestricht. The Comendador Mayor sent a detailed estimate of expenditure for this year and the writer has answered that he is anxious to alleviate the distress in Spain. But every effort must now be made, for the king of France may attack us (although unlikely to do so this year as he has England to cope with); or he may make peace with England, for he is known to have an understanding with the German Protestants and intrigues in Italy. Suggestions for raising more money in Spain, even though the first fruits, crusade revenues and those of the military orders, and other sources are pledged up to the end of the year 1548. Nimiguen, (fn. n2) 16 Feb. 1546.
16 Feb.	233. St. Mauris to Prince Philip.
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 194.	Replies to the Prince's letter of 22 Jan. that the king of France is well (the abscess which returned a month ago having opened of itself) and still hunts in a litter. Leaving the Queen and Court at St. Germains, he has been away for a fortnight, accompanied by Madame Margaret and Madame d' Etampes, and the Dauphin. News of the Dauphin, the Queen and the Dauphiness. The truce with the Turk is only for one year. But for Monluc, the Turk would have made it for five. The Turk wants the king of the Romans to surrender a fortress in Hungary and pay 12,000 ducats a year as tribute. Monluc went to the Emperor to recount his mission and was told that it would be communicated to the king of the Romans at the Diet of Regensberg. He said here that the truce would last only as long as the king of France pleased, and that on hearing of Orleans' death the Turk refused to make it for longer than one year. The Admiral told the writer that the Turk expected an immediate reply from the king of the Romans. Such talk is meant to alarm the Emperor. The worst is that the King has informed the Protestants that he will try to prolong the truce; his object being to make the Catholics think that no arrangement has been made with the Turk. With regard to the duration of peace between the Emperor and France matters are at a standstill because France insists on retaining Piedmont, proposing to give the Emperor that part of it which adjoins Milan and to compensate the duke of Savoy, to which the Emperor will not agree. The French frontier has been garrisoned, and the Emperor's subjects fear a surprise attack; but the open war with England makes an attack this year unlikely. The King always swears that he will keep amity with the Emperor as long as he lives, and the writer's opinion is that he will keep his oath until it suits him to break it. He hopes to trick the English out of Boulogne in exchange for making a marriage between the princess of Scotland and the prince of England which would be merely a verbal promise. Failing this, he will re-commence war against the English this year. Paris, 16 Feb. 1546.
17 Feb.	234. Van der Delft to Charles V.
Spanish Calendar viii., No. 199	Since his last of the 25th ult., the King having returned from Hampton Court to Greenwich, the Council ordered one of their secretaries to examine the Comendador (fn. n3) who is prisoner. The interrogations which related to dealings with Bertheuille, to the Emperor's prejudice, before St. Dizier, were first shown to the writer, who prefixed some questions as to the man's name and family, and reasons for coming hither, and why he said that the Emperor sent him to the king of France about Count William's ransom. His reply was that he was Don Pedro Pacheco, son of Don Juan, of Toledo, and his mother a La Cueva; that he had been a comendador of Santiago for ten years and came hither to serve the King; that he was a gentleman of the table to the Emperor for six years, and of the chamber for three years after that, until he had a combat in the Court with Gerard Caralcero; that he knew Don Pedro Portocarrero, who was in Spain; and that he did not recollect the statement about Count William. He denied all acquaintance with Bertheuille before he was taken prisoner. The Council mean to confront him with Bertheuille; and will give the writer the Duke of Alburquerque's letter, which they think forged, when the person who has it returns.
	I was at Court lately to discover the cause of the coming of an ambassador from Poland who was welcomed both by the King and Queen. Met the King coming from Mass, who with a very joyful countenance asked if I had "the authentic draft of his ambassadors' negociations with your Majesty"; and, on hearing that I had nothing, he continued "The Emperor, my good brother, has left Utrecht, and it is said that he intends to make war against the Protestants." Could only learn about the said ambassador that, in coming hither, he stayed in the Emperor's court. War preparations are very active. German captains daily offer service; but owing to Riffenberg's fault, none are taken except Conrad Penninck's men and a few Eastland horse. Some Italian captains have left, and M. Louis de l'Arme is also to go, to raise troops in Italy. Learns secretly that the latter's departure is delayed in order that he may get Luigi di Gonzaga, of the house of Mantua, as chief of the Italians, who is for that reason named knight of the Garter. All the Spaniards have embarked for Boulogne, and the Lord Admiral has returned from thence. The assembling of a land army there is talked of. London, 17 Feb. 1546.
17 Feb.	235. Van der Delft to Granvelle.
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 198	Wrote on the 25th ult. that the Chancellor desired to have Renegat's matter ended, complaining of the embargo on English property in Spain in the meanwhile; and, as Renegat is in his service, he desires to avoid suspicion of partiality and has asked Paget to settle it, who says he is willing to do so at once. Here is a Biscayner named Martin Sanchez, who formerly brought letters from the Emperor about his claim, but, finding the whole of the Council against him, returned to his Majesty at Spires and came again with a second letter. Van der Delft, too, in November, received fresh letters from the Emperor and Granvelle to press the claim; but still restitution cannot be obtained—because the Lord Privy Seal had a share in the business and stands in the way. Sees no way but to address the King personally. The poor man, who has for more than a year sought redress, is desperate at seeing so many others referred to the Lord Admiral (who at present deals well and promptly with our claims) while our efforts with the Council are fruitless. London, 17 Feb. 1546.
17 Feb.	236. The Queen's Auditor.
R. O.	Bill made, 17 Feb. 37 Hen. VIII, by John Stokys, principal of Thavys Inn in Holborn, of the receipt from Ant. Bocher, auditor to the Queen, of 33s. 5d. in full payment of his debts to Roger Pateshale, late principal of the same house, and of pensions now due to the said Stokys. Signed: per me Joh'em Stookis.
	P. 1.
17 Feb.	237. Mont to Henry VIII.
R. O.	Wrote on the 10th. Three days ago the Landgrave sent him a letter which he now forwards together with the translation. (fn. n4) The Count (fn. n5) of whom the Landgrave writes was a month ago interdicted the city of Cologne for wilful homicide and vicious living. The French captain Reckroed stays yet in Frankfort, alluring men who have been tribunes and prefects of soldiers, and sending them daily into France. It is not thought that he will leave soon, as he has just hired a finer and larger house. The magistracy of this town, last Sunday, proclaimed that no one should go to military service abroad without the senate's permission, on pain of loss of municipal right and banishment of their wives and children. The like command is published throughout the Protestant dominions, as decreed in the late Diet here. Has been told, however, that they will not hinder any levy known to be for the King. Horsemen are everywhere being engaged. Francfort, 17 Feb. 1546.
	Lat. Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1545.
17 Feb.	238. Mont to Paget.
R. O.	On the 27th ult., wrote to the King at the Landgrave's instance to be careful in employing German captains, as such gentry are wont to magnify their own importance, and sent a list of names of those to be avoided, some of whom have lately insinuated themselves with the French king. Now the Landgrave (as he lately sought by his councillors) prays the King to notify these States in the event of his commanding anyone to levy soldiers in Germany, lest the States, suspecting the levy to be for their adversaries, hinder it and thus unwittingly sin against the King. Lately wrote for Bernhardus a Mela, the King's old servant. All good men grieve that the King has been so defrauded by faithless captains. The Frenchmen here sow odious news that the King has made a perpetual league with the Emperor and his heirs to the defence of those regions which belong to the Empire, as Utrecht, the Bishopric of Utrecht, Over Isel, Friesland, &c. Remains at Frankfort because of the Frenchmen, who also stay here and are expecting a great lord out of France. Francfort, 17 Feb. 1546.
	Lat. Hol., p. 1. Add Sealed. Endd.: 1545.
18 Feb.	239. The Privy Council.
Dasent's A.P.C., 335.	Meeting at Westminster, 18 Feb. Present: Chancellor, Great Master, [Privy Seal, Hertford, Essex, Admiral, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Paget, Sadler, Riche, Baker]. Business:—Sir Ric. Lee had warrant to the Exchequer for the 1,000l. towards presting 2,000 pioneers and providing necessaries for Boulogne. Letters "to the collectors for the subsidy of Yorkshire" to pay the abp. of York and Mr. Uvedale the money they have defrayed for the Almains, Spaniards and Englishmen who served northward, the King's warrant to follow.
18 Feb.	240. Sir William Petre.
	See Grants in February, No. 38.
18 Feb.	241. Vaughan to Paget.
R. O.	By Nicholas the post this evening I received your letter, wherein you advise me to take heed what I promise to the King. I have so done; "but, sir, I trust the King's Majesty doth not think that I am able to borrow his Highness 40,000l., 50,000l., 60,000l. or 100,000l. upon my credit only. As these be no wanton sums, no more be they to be found in every man's house. Ye have already had 100,000l. upon the credit of London. If ye woll have me press men overmuch ye shall too much discover that which were better not known. Men be here wise, have many eyes, great intelligence out of all countries. Think you that these men will disburse so huge sums of money before they be honestly assured to be repaid again? If ye woll have me make haste, then can I certainly answer you I shall not speed." The King may be sure that I weigh his contentation more than my life or goods. "I dare not say that the Emperor is loth to have the King's Majesty served with so great sums of money in this his country, but I dare say Jasper Dowche refused not his fee of 1,000 crowns by year before he knew somewhat of the Emperor's mind." Even as Nicholas came I was writing to the King, but withdrew my pen as one afraid to write; and will not now write until certainly answered by the Fowger for the emprunture of 30,000l. in money and 10,000l. in fustians. Jasper Dowche has taken day for that answer till Sunday next, and the Fowger looks to hear first from the chief of their house in Almayn, from whom they have letters by ordinary posts every Monday. Chr. Haller, as I lately signified, offers to go through with his old bargain and emprunt 60,000 cr. upon the bond of Bonvyce, Salvage and Bartilmew Compaigne, refusing the bonds of London. "I wot not what to say when such sureties woll not be given as they desire. Prepare sureties to the contentation of men here and I woll wage my life to serve the King's Majesty with 200,000 li. Flem.; but if that come not I shall be able to do little. Think you that the merchants here woll take the bonds of noblemen in England? No, I assure you. And as to our merchants, they be better known to strangers here than to ourselves. They woll not all be taken for 30,000 crowns, no, though ye lay them heaped all in one bond."
	This day Erasmus Scetys brought me a letter from the Council with certain copies, and I am at a point to finish the matter with him and make bonds accordingly. I will pay him 1,333l. 6s. 8d. Fl., but must take it by exchange. You have appointed me to pay Mr. Damesell 4,100l. Fl., Mr. Bren and Mr. Brygendyn 3,000l. st., and Dymok 1000l.; and to pay all this I have only Bonvyce's bill of 6,125l. Fl. Dymok says that no man will bear the adventure of corn from hence to any of the King's dominions. Please signify to him what to do. Corn he may buy at Dorte, but cannot be licensed to export it. He writes that 60 tall ships at Amsterdame are ready to depart to the Bay for salt as soon as the ice thaws. "If they pass into France it is like the French king wolbe served of them." Your letter to the Count of Tekelenbergh I sent by post. The two little papers you return I put in your packet to make it even. Andwerp, 18 Feb., at night.
	Dymok can get bacon, butter and cheese; but says that you write not what price to give.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.: 1545.
19 Feb.	242. William Cavendish.
	Treasurer of the Chamber. See Grants in February, No. 40.
19 Feb.	243. Soap from Seaweed.
	See Grants in February, No. 41.
19 Feb.	244. University of Oxford to Henry VIII.
R. O.	By Richard Cox, whom he sent to them, their confidence in his encouragement of letters is confirmed, and all judge that in England under Henry the Eighth, even in so great heat of wars, good letters may flourish no less than they did at Rome under Octavius in a time of peace. They remember that under his auspices letters began to flourish, and by him they have been preserved; and to perpetuate them he has granted privileges to the colleges of Oxford and Cambridge, and honorable stipends to the professors, and now, even amid the expense of these wars, has thought good to erect two most ample colleges at Oxford and Cambridge. Oxoniae, decimo nono Februarii. Signed: Will'mus Tresham, vicecancell': Henricus Cole, Novi Collegii: Hugo Weston, Collegii Lyncoln': Joannes Warner, Collegii Animarum: Robertus Morwent, Collegii Corporis Xⁱ: Matheus Smyth, Aule Regie et Collegii de Brasynnose: Will'mus Denyss, Collegii Regine: Gulielmus Haynys, Collegii Oryel': Will'mus Buswell, Collegii Magdalenensis: Humfridus Borneford, Collegii Merton': Augustinus Crosse, Collegii Exon': Johnnes Smythe, Collegii Baliolensis: Hugo Hucheson, Collegii Universitatis.
	Lat., pp. 2, Add. Endd.: 1545.
19 Feb.	245. Vaughan to Paget.
R. O.	Herewith I send copy of a letter of a friend of Mr. Dymock's written to him out of Estland of an offer to serve the King with corn. I have caused it to be translated into French. Here it is said "that the duke of Savoy intendeth, with th'aid of th' Emperor's money t'assay whether he can recover his country again out of the French king's hands." Andwerp, 19 Feb.
	Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1545.
19 Feb.	246. Francis I. to the Protestants.
R. O.	Your ambassadors, when lately with us, held the same language to us as in your letters of the 2nd inst. you have written (estoit qu. escrit?) about some executions which are made in our realm; and our answer was to pray you not to meddle with what we do in our realm in punishing delinquents, as we also would not meddle with what you do in your countries. This we again earnestly pray, advertising you that we have determined to maintain the statutes, orders, customs and sacred constitutions observed under our predecessors, and to punish such as transgress them; which, however, nowise concerns our amity, and ought not to hinder it. Also by your letter of the 6th inst. we understand that you have heard the report of your ambassadors, and we doubt not but that you have thereby known whether it lay with the king of England or us that things went not otherwise, and what concessions we made for the said peace. Thanks them for their desire to remain his friends, and prays them to believe that, having, at the Emperor's instance, comprised them as principal contrahents in the last treaty, he holds their friendship for well established. Vericon sur Seyne, 19 Feb. 1545.
	Copy. French, pp. 2. Endd.: Responce du Roy Fr. sur les lettres quavoient a luy escriptes, de Franckfort, les trois princes Palantin et Sachssen Elizeurs et le Landegrave de Hesse pour le faict de la persecution, et laultre quavoient escript les Protestans en commun apres notre relation de notre legation en France et Engleterre, comme ilz en avoient escripte semblables a la Majeste du Roy Dangleterre, etc.
20 Feb.	247. Ormond to the Council.
R. O. St. P., iii. 550.	Wrote to divers of them several letters of the state of this poor realm; which letters were forcibly taken, opened and read and detained by the Deputy from Tuesday morning before Christmas until the Friday following. Upon the view thereof the Deputy and others of the Council wrote to him to repair hither; and (although the Deputy has said "that rather than he would be subverted he would subvert five realms" and divers persons had been procured to promote false matter against him) at the risk of his life from "so unjust a governor" and his brother, Mr. Robert, he repaired thither. Instead of taking council for the King's affairs, they only desired him to conceal what he knew of the evil governance of this realm and consuming of the King's treasure. In spite of their coloured persuasions to tarry at home at this present, and although sure that in his absence false matter will be procured against him, he will resort to the King with speed. Begs credence for bearer. Is informed that the Deputy sends Agarde, Parker and Goldsmythe thither, who are reputed liberal of speech and crafty, and, having their only living of the King, would cloak men's offences against his Highness "concerning the miserable state of the realm." Dublin, 20 Feb. Signed.
	Pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1545.
20 Feb.	248. Paget to the Earl of Surrey.
R. O. St. P., xi. 57. Nott's Howard, 224.	I have communicated your letter of the 16th to the King, who, for answer, requires you "to despatch from thence all such captains with the officers as you wrote be cassed, for his Majesty knoweth not how to employ the same; nevertheless, if there be any captain of the cassed which is a special man of service, his Highness would, ere your lordship discharge him, be advertised of him, to th'intent further order may be given for him." The want in the Old Man shall be supplied as soon as may be. The latter part of your letter, touching the intended enterprises of the enemy, gives me occasion to write that, to damage the enemy, the King will send an army over very shortly, and my lord of Hertford shall be lieutenant general in Bullonoys, whereby your authority of lieutenant shall cease; and, therefore, for your reputation, you should make suit betimes for some place in the army, such as the captainship of the foreward or rearward. Thus should you gain experience and peradventure do some notable service, in revenge for the loss of your men at last encounter with the enemies; whereas, if you now tarry within a wall without authority, it would be thought abroad, either that you desired to tarry in a sure place or that your forwardness to serve was discredited here. If it please you to use me as a mean, I trust so to set forth the matter as to get you appointed to lead the foreward or rearward. "And this counsail I write unto you as one that wold you well; trusting that your Lordship will even so interpret the same and let me know your mynd herein betymes."
	Where you and the rest of the Council there wrote for Croft to be lieutenant of the Old Man, the King had before appointed Thomas Awdeley; and has also appointed Adrian Poyninges to be lieutenant to Mr. Wyat in the citadel. They will resort thither shortly. Please send me the testament of Mr. Rous, with his seal, keys and books of account, that his executors may know how to proceed.
	Draft corrected by Paget, pp. 3. Endd.: To my [1. of] Surrey, xx^o Februa[rii] 1545.
R. O.	2. Earlier draft of the first paragraph of § 1.
	In Paget's hand, pp. 2. Endd.: M. to th'erle of Surrey, xix^o Februarii 1545.
20 Feb	249. The Queen's Auditor.
R. O.	Bill of receipt by Ric. Byrd, cooper, of London, 20 Feb. 37 Hen. VIII., from Ant. Bocher, auditor to the Queen, of 30s. for one quarter's rent of his dwelling house due at Christmas last. Signed with a mark.
	Small slip, p. 1.
R. O.	2. Bill of John Baker, of Putney, "for certain pales set up by Mr. Bourcher's commandment," viz. for setting up 40 foot at 4½d. the foot, 15s., and nails employed 12d. Signed by Baker as received 20 Feb. 1545.
	P. 1.
20 Feb.	250. Council of Boulogne to the Council.
R. O. Nott's Howard, 207.	Although the King licensed such as repair hither with victuals to pass free of custom, the poor men complain that they "are much exacted by the customers." Further, whereas in this "casuall service" men are "accident" to death, there is here no commissary to "approve the will of the dead" according to the spiritual laws. "We see divers discouraged to see the goods of the trespassed run to the common sack and not to the heir."
	Learn to-day by espial that the fortress shall be revictualled in the end of next week by 400 men at arms and 5,000 footmen, with 18 ships of war, 6 galleys and certain "ffloynes (fn. n6) of portage" by sea. Afterwards, bands of horsemen shall lie at Daverne, Sammer and Estaples until the camp come, which is looked for in the end of March. The Ryncrofte is coming with 6,000 Almayns. The French king, by advice of two experienced gentlemen of Hungary, has made many cannons of larger calibre than ever before seen, "and advaunteth to beat this town all to powder." Mons. de Vandosme is recovered and will return to his government shortly. Bouloyne, 20 Feb. 1545.
	Beg answer to the articles they sent to the earl of Hartforde and lord Lysle. Signed: H. Surrey: John Bryggys: Sir Rauff Ellerkar: Hugh Poulet: Rychard Caundysshe: A. F.
	P.S.—Have here "no mass of money to pay the strangers at the next pay day, which is now at hand."
	Pp. 3. Add. Endd.: 1545.
	ii. On the back.—"At Dover, the xx. day off February at vij. of the clock. At Kauntt[erbe]rrey at vij. a [clo]ck Sonday [in the] mornyng. Att Syttyngbern at ix. of the clocke afore none. At Rochester at a xj. a clock before none. Att Darford att ij. off the cloke."
20 Feb.	251. Corn from Dantzic.
R. O.	Agreement (conditions detailed) made 20 Feb. 1546 between Stephen Vaughan, principal agent here of the King of England, and Erasmus Schetz (or Scatz) et filz, merchants of this town of Antwerp, that the latter shall provide 600 lasts (about 6.000 qr.) of rye and 400 lasts of wheat in Dantzick, ready with the first open water after Mid-lent to be transported, part (viz. 1,000 qr. wheat and 3,000 qr. rye) to Newcastle, and the rest to London and Dover; to be paid for on delivery, the wheat at 25s the qr. and rye at 16s., the King taking risks. The sum of 1,000l. st. (1,333l. 6s. 8d. Fl.) is to be paid now in advance at Antwerp.
	Copy. French, pp. 4. Slightly mutilated. Endd.: Copie of Erasmus Schetz bargain w^t the Kinges Ma^te for corne.
R. O.	2. Another copy.
	Pp. 3. Endd.: Copie of a contract made bytwene Stephen Vaughan and Erasmus Schetz for a bargain of corne.
R. O.	3. Another copy certified by Johannes Vanden Driessche, notary public at Antwerp.
	Pp. 3. Endd.: 1546. Contract mit Ko. Mt. vann Englandt over qz. 6,000 rog, 4,000 terve.
20 Feb.	252. William Damesell to Paget.
R. O.	Desires him to show the King that in Andwerpe, Midleborough, Camphier and Armewe, where his Majesty supposed that the writer should find anchors ready made, there are only 7 or 8 old anchors, and but three smiths whose houses serve to work any so big as required, and they will not promise more than one anchor a week. These places, together with Hamsterdam and Dort, could not supply the whole 55 anchors before the end of three months, and they ask 14s. to 16s. the cwt., "which is very dear; and yet will these drunkards deliver no better than Ames iron, which is nothing so good as Spanish iron, no not although they should be bound in a hundred bonds to the Emperor their own lord.' Thinks that anchors will be better made in England, where the King may be sure of good stuff. The rest of the provisions, as copper, saltpetre, lances, pikes, &c., he can get; except the "boltes of canvas called poldaves and olderns," of which there are not 50 pieces in all the country. Desires speedy instructions concerning the anchors. Andwerpe, 20 Feb. 1545.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
20 Feb	253. John Brende and John Brigantyn to Henry VIII.
R. O.	Detained here only about the receipt of the 3,000l. st. from Mr. Vaughan, we have now received it in French crowns, four to the pound, each crown at 38 stivers; and have delivered Conrade Penyng 3,000 dalers and 80 philippus, who departed five days past to levy soldiers and meet us at Breame, where he purposes to muster and despatch four ensigns,—and the rest nearer Hambrough, where we receive the rest of the money. He promises to do all that pertains to his duty and we to pretermit none of ours. Conrade would not agree to our going in his company, "having to pass into so many places and through divers dominions where his person could be no surety to your Majesty's money nor to us." We shall pass by Holland and the low way of Freseland, and have found secret means for the carriage of the money until we come to places of surety. Andwerpe, 20 Feb. Signed.
	Pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1545.
20 Feb.	254. John Brende to Paget.
R. O.	The cause of our "tariaunce" here was the delay of our payment, the bills of exchange not expressing what money we should have, and our business requiring crowns, whereof we have received 12,000 at 4 to the pound, each crown at 38 stivers or 4s. 8d. st. We shall this night depart towards Breame by the way I signified to you. I shall write to the King and you of all occurrents. "Being afore in an error, thinking it a presumption to have written to the King's Majesty but only in matters of great moment," I shall henceforth, according to your advertisement, write to his Highness, as now "I have done." Courtpenyng before his departing promised to make expedition. Andwerpe, 20 Feb. Signed.
	P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1545.
20 Feb.	255. John Brigantyn to Paget.
R. O.	Means, by diligent service, to deserve commendation. His father Mr. Chancellor of the Augmentations, who, when he was last at London, thanked Paget for thus preferring him, will doubtless "require" the continuance of that goodness; and he trusts that Paget's good report of him will be an introduction to further service. Andwerp, 20 Feb.
	Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1545.
20 Feb.	256. Chamberlain to Paget.
R. O.	As appointed by the Emperor, arrived here on the 15th from Utrecht, to proceed against Riffenberghe; but has as yet done nothing, for the Emperor only came hither yesterday and the commissaries are absent, the Vice-chancellor being sent into Germany and "Mons. Decke, as here it is communed, towards England." To-day Grandvella has asked him to take patience and another couple will be appointed in a day or two. As divers Almains say that Riffenbergh, whose clerk is here, will not come, the writer asked Granvelle to speak to the Emperor to cause him to be present till his false proceedings were thoroughly opened. This Granvelle promised. At Utrecht, presented Bucholt as a witness, who had promised my lords the ambassadors to declare Riffenbergh's lewd behaviour: but the examining secretary tells me that "he said he could say nothing." Evidently these people are all agreed; and Bucholt was as greedy, at Utrecht, as the rest for the fourth month and to demand for 70 and odd horse that we never saw. I have brought from Bruxelles, as a witness, Mestre Quyntyne, who was a commissary of victuals at Graveling when the King was at Bolloine and likewise with us in this last journey. Hither is come Albert Bishop sent by Taphorne to demand for 70 horse that we never saw mustered, as we sundry times advertised; and Taphorne is gone to Acon to bring testimonial from two persons who were of Bucholt's band, "for the which he was allowed of us perforce for xxii. horse never seen nor mustered, as I have well declared unto my lords th'ambassadors, and showed them the false trick that Taphorne played in the muster rolls for the same." Taphorne thinks to "come thither and discharge himself," but I beseech you, stay him till I come to show the muster rolls. All the voyage he practised to sow dissension between me and my colleagues, and was, as divers Almains say, "some occasion of the disturbance of our journey." Sebastian Lucas, whom the Council sent hither because he was trucheman between Riffenbergh and us, is told by Almains here, "as well that bare office in our army as other," that Cortepennynke will serve as ill as Riffenbergh did; and, as for sureties, they say that it is easy to make the commons refuse to serve and then are the captain and his sureties discharged. Whether they say this of malice I wot not. Also they say that he has certain of Riffenbergh's captains, naming one Cristien Manduvel, "which I assure you was one of the chief causers of our mutiny." I send you the names of all our captains that Cortepennynke may be warned against them. When I have put in as much as I can allege I will repair towards you; "for if the Emperor intend to determine nothing therein until he come into Germany, at th'Imperial right (?), I shall but lose time and put the King's Majesty unto charges." For the Emperor will then be able without me to discern where the fault is. Here are ambassadors from the duke of Saxson, Count Palatin, Marques of Brandenburgh, Landsgrave and the cities of Brounswicke, Gosselert and Francford. The saying is that they come to know if the Emperor "will go upwards and intend in the matters of religion, or else they will proceed as they have begun." Almains affirm to me that the king of Pole, the duke of Pruse and the Count Palatine have joined the Protestants; "and that the Palsgrave hath already sent certain preachers unto a town of his upon the Ryne called Bacracke. And some will say that th'Emperor sent the Vice-chancellor of the Empire unto the Palsgrave about the same, and to the bishop of Colloine willing him within xv. days to restore the church there to the old state; and that within these iiij. or v. days he will return with answer." The Landsgrave, the Count Palatin and the bishop of Munster have met at a town beside Franckford, for three days together.
	Thinks that Cortepennynke's men should be sent by ship, although it be more chargeable; for, coming by 30 or 40, they will be a prey to the French king's practisers, and their captains might say that they ran away with the King's money given beforehand.
	One Rocrade, a captain who has long served the French king, is come to Francforde to levy 20 ensigns of footmen, leaving those whom he has in France "to another captain called the Rynegrave that is there in service." In Guelderland a captain of the French king's, called Hacford, is imprisoned for levying men without the Emperor's licence. Wishes Paget and my good lady long life. Mastricht, 20 Feb. 1545.
	Hol., pp. 7. Add, Sealed. Endd.
R. O.	2. "The names of the captains of the footmen under the charge of Fredericke van Riffenbergh."
	[The same list as in No. 257, but in very different spelling, with one additional name, Hanse van Aste, at the end.]
	In Chamberlain s hand, p. 1.
20 Feb.	257. Sebastian Lucas to Paget.
R. O.	Out of England with all speed I repaired to Utrecht, to Mr. Chamberlyn, for affairs against Reyffenborgh, as commanded by the Council; and thence "I am derived to Mastrycht upon Monday last, (fn. n7) together with Mr. Chamberlyn." Because the Emperor did not come until yesterday, and the commissioners (fn. n8) are sent, one to Germany and the other to England, nothing is yet done; but new commissioners are appointed. Meanwhile can only report news. Here are many great captains who served the duke of Brunswyk last year against the Landgraif. Among them it is said that Cort Peny has charge of 8 ensigns of footmen, and that he will serve the King no better than Ryffenbergh did, because he is in wages with the Protestants. They say that Cort Peny has with him certain captains who served under Ryffenborgh, notably Kersten Mandvuel, "one of the most traitors that was among us." Cannot tell if this is spoken of malice; but has written the names of all the captains that served last year, marking with a cross such as were honest. Here are ambassadors of the duke of Saxon, Landgrave, Marcus of Brandeborgh and count of Palatyne, and also of certain famous cities, as Francford, Brunswyk and Goslar. The voice goes that they come to say that unless the Emperor make an end in matters of religion they will proceed as they have begun; "and, bycause th' Emperour hath somned the bysshop of Collon to bryng the Church in her old frame (for the bisshop hath made alteracion in hys lond) or elles th' Emperour wol come hym selff to do yt, and of thys the bisshop most make an answer w^tin 15 dayes, and, as men doth say, that the imbassadurs shal make intersession for hym to th' Emperour to let the matter be tryed afor the Empyre and in a Generell Consell. And yt is sayd for a very surty that the company of the Protestants is dayly augmentyd, for the counte of Palatyne is come in lege with them, and the kyng of Poole, and the duke of Prusse and serten famous cytes; and all the Protestantes have bene assembled at Francford, but what they have concludys is yet secret. They are partyd a sonder."
	At Utrecht, Chr. of Wrysborgh, who served with the horsemen before Bollon, "that was with me before the King at Calys," again presenting his services, told me that, lately, in France, he saw a letter sealed and signed of Thomas Luchtemaker binding himself to the French King for 8,000 cr. "to run away before his enemies, being in the King's Majesty's service;" and since he saw the letter the 8,000 cr. were deserved because Luchtemaker "fled out of the field in the low country by Gravelyng." I thank you for great kindness; and desire you to thank Master Peter, secretary, for assisting me in your absence, and to remember my patents to be made in the best manner, which, for haste, I left unmade. Mastrycht, 20 Feb., 1545.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.
R. O.	2. List of names, viz., of Reiffenborch, Wolff Slegel, his chief lieutenant, Hans Bicklin of Strasburg, Kerstginn Manteuvell, lieutenants and 21 captains, three of the captains, Johan vann Unsteynn, Mertin vom Hairtz and Slumer von Gorckum being marked with crosses (See § 1).
	German, p. 1. Subscribed by Lucas: "This in Duche because ye shall so much to better have the phrase of them."
20 Feb.	258. Doge and Senate of Venice to their "Bailo" at Constantinople.
Venetian Calendar (Brown), v., No. 373.	The French have defeated the English near Boulogne and revictualled their fort. Negociations at Calais for peace or truce failed. By letters of the 2nd and 5th inst. the Emperor and king of England have concluded a fresh agreement, which causes the French king to increase war preparations against England and send the prince of Melphi into Piedmont.