Venice: June 1525 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 3, 1520-1526. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1869.

'Venice: June 1525', in Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 3, 1520-1526, (London, 1869) pp. 441-455. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/venice/vol3/pp441-455 [accessed 25 April 2024]

June 1525



June 1. Original Letter Book, Letter no. 356, St. Mark's Library.	1021. Gasparo Contarini to the Council of Ten.
	Brion departed on the 26th ultimo. It is said he offered the Emperor the Venetian territory and all the rest of Italy; I do not believe this report to be entirely false.
	The Bishop of London and Sir Richard Wyngfeld arrived from England at Toledo on the 24th of May, and had audience of the Emperor. They subsequently held frequent conferences with all the Imperial counsellors at the house of the Chancellor.
	Their proposals are not entirely to the taste of the Imperial ministry, and from their countenances and language they seem not well satisfied.
	I conversed on the subject with the Governor of Bresse, who said the Portuguese wish for war, and that the people of England, having paid heavy taxes without any result, and now perceiving the Emperor to have gained at less cost a glorious victory, are inclined for war, and even should Wolsey wish to advocate peace it is not in his power to do so.
	The Chancellor had previously hinted to me that Tunstall and Wyngfeld had no commission to make peace.
	I am informed that the English ambassadors proposed giving the Emperor a large sum of money on account of the marriage; (fn. 1) and for the grant of Bayonne some say that the King offers to place the Princess of England in the Emperor's hands, while others maintain that the Imperialists demand this concession from the King.
	I have not heard in detail the claims of the English ambassadors but I hear they demand the kingdom of France, and urge a speedy decision.
	The Emperor is much embarrassed, as his means of carrying on the war against France are small, and he would be compelled to submit well nigh entirely to the King of England. On the other hand, the obstacles to peace with France are, the promise given to the Duke of Bourbon, the slight trust reposed by Imperialists in Frenchmen, and the loss of the opportunity for recovering Burgundy and humbling the Crown of France.
	I am inclined to believe in war with France, which would be the safest for the Italian powers.
	Same caravels arrived lately at Seville from the Indies, bringing a certain amount of gold and a piece of artillery for the Emperor made of gold, silver, and metal; also a great quantity of small pearls and some live tigers (tigre vive). The value of the gold, including the piece of artillery and the consignment received a few days ago by the last caravels, amounts to 100,000 ducats, for account of the Emperor.
	Toledo, 1st June 1525.
	[Italian, 3¾ pages.]
June 2. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. pp. 6, 7.	1022. French Pirates in England.
	The ambassador of the King of England [Richard Pace] informed the College that he had deceived letters from England dated the 4th May, announcing that from stress of weather certain French corsairs had been driven upon the English coast, where they were seized, together with what they had plundered from Venetian subjects.
	If the Signory or the merchants will send some one to obtain their property, with letters from the Signory, the ambassador will also write, and everything will be recovered. The Doge thanked him. Pace then asked for the reversion (expectativa) of a broker's patent in the German warehouse for a bastard (uno putanazzo) born of a German and a Venetian woman; so they promised him to have it put to the ballot at his request.
	[Italian.]
June 2. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 7.	1023. English Ambassador in Venice.
	The English ambassador, Pace, said (in the College) that according to letters from England his King would cross over to France with his army, and merely awaits the Emperor's order. He then added that the State ought not to abstain from concluding the agreement with the Emperor for 20,000 ducats.
	[Italian.]
June 3. Lettere del Collegio Secreta, Tile No. 9.	1024. The Doge and College to Lorenzo Orio, Venetian Ambassador in England.
	On the 1st of May the Viceroy [of Naples, Charles de Lannoy] proclaimed the league concluded by him between the Pope and the Emperor, and sent envoys urging the Signory to confirm the league stipulated between them and the Emperor. Replied each time that they considered the league good and valid, as at the period of its ratification; and their ambassador at the Imperial Court wrote that the Emperor also considered it valid. Nevertheless, after the many replies given to the Viceroy, the matter remains as by the four rejoinders made on the 22nd April and 1st, 12th, and 27th May, of which copies are enclosed. Orio will thereby comprehend all that has occurred, and is to inform the King and Cardinal, making such use of the documents as expedient for the interests of the State. The Imperial ambassador at Venice, on hearing the Signory's last reply, said he would notify it to the Viceroy, from whom they have heard nothing further.
	Have heard from Milan of the arrival of the Viceroy at Genoa on the 24th ultimo, together with the most Christian King, they having quitted Pizzighitone on the 18th. According to report the Viceroy had determined to convey the King to Naples by sea; some saying, moreover, that he would take him to Spain. Learn from a letter dated the 29th that they are to embark at Genoa, on board an armada numbering 15 galleys and five brigantines, the Viceroy having left the command of the army to the Marquis of Pescara until his return, which he said would take place in 40 days.
	Orio has been informed of the wish of the State to effect a settlement with the Archduke Ferdinand. A commissioner from his Highness has since arrived at Venice, and they have commenced treating with him, in order to conclude what was proposed at Worms. Hope in a few days to see the result.
	[Italian.]
June 3. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 85.	1025. Lorenzo Orio, Ambassador in England, to —.
	Has been in constant expectation of audience of the King, who is taking his pleasure at a distance of many miles from London. Yesterday received notice that his Majesty would see him on Monday at Rumford, whither he will go for that purpose.
	No greater preparation for the invasion of France is being made than such as was announced by him from Antwerp; so it seems that everything is suspended until they hear what is intended by the Emperor, and should he attack France, the King of England will do the like, but not otherwise.
	According to news received in London from Lorraine, 24,000 Lutheran peasants have been cut to pieces by the Duke of Lorraine and his brother with the assistance of the French. It is also confirmed and certain that the Duke of Saxony has died a natural death.
	Moreover, there have been great disturbances in England, the people having risen on account of a certain tribute imposed by the King, who demanded a universal property tax of one-third for the war; so on perceiving this insurrection against the Cardinal, the King sent two great personages, namely, the Duke of Suffolk and the Marquis of Monfort [Dorset?] to quiet them, and repealed the tax.
	London, 3rd June. Registered by Sanuto, 27th June.
	[Italian.]
June 4. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 23.	1026. Marc' Antonio Venier to the Doge and Signory.
	The Duke of Bourbon has received an express from England, informing him that the King will undertake the expedition and invade France.
	Milan, 4th June. Registered by Sanuto, 7th June.
	[Italian.]
June 4. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. pp. 46, 47.	1027. Zuan Francesco Contarini to —.
	The messenger from England said by word of mouth that the rising there against Cardinal Wolsey had been entirely quelled by the King, but at Inspruck this is not credited.
	Inspruck, 4th June. Registered by Sanuto, 14th June.
	[Italian.]
June 4. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 46.	1028. Carlo Contarini to the Doge and Signory.
	The peasants of the country have risen, and will no longer pay tithes to the priests or prelates.
	Last evening the Archduke sent to tell him that he had received a post, who came from England in three days, with news that the people there and many noblemen and gentlemen (signori) of that island had risen against the right reverend Cardinal of York, but that the King sought to quiet them as much as he could.
	Inspruck, 4th June. Registered by Sanuto, 14th June.
	[Italian.]
June 6. Original Letter Book, Letter no. 357, St. Mark's Library.	1029. Gasparo Contarini to the Signory.
	Through their delegates in the Cortes, the kingdoms of Castile; request the Emperor to marry the sister of the King of Portugal; so the order for the recal of Mons. de la Chau has been cancelled, and he is desired to remain there.
	On the 2nd instant the English ambassadors despatched a courier to England, the reason being that the Imperial ministers have treated them to a rigmarole (li hanno dato una longola), saying that their commission was insufficient, and must be couched in another form.
	At 11 p.m. on the 3rd instant Don Ugo de Moncada arrived at Toledo, and on the morrow, Whit Sunday, he remained alone for three hours with the Emperor, who then went to vespers; after which he summoned his Council, Don Ugo likewise being in attendance.
	On the 5th I asked the Chancellor what news Moncada brought. The Chancellor replied, “Really the King of France makes great offers, and takes the right road. First of all, he is willing to renounce to the Emperor his claims in the kingdom of Naples and his pretended rights in the duchy of Milan. In like manner he renounces the supremacy in Flanders and his rights in Tournay and the county of Artois. With regard to the line of the Somme, which Duke Charles of Burgundy possessed, not as his own property, but as security for 400,000 ducats or florins, he is willing to disburse that sum to the Emperor. Touching the duchy of Burgundy, he is content that the matter be discussed de jure, and if it belongs to the Emperor he will restore it to him freely. Should it not belong to the Emperor de jure, the King is then willing to take it on account of dower, either for himself, should he marry the Queen Dowager of Portugal [Eleanor of Austria], or as dower for her daughter, should this last marry the Dauphin; with the condition that should these marriages prove childless, the duchy of Burgundy do revert to the Emperor or his heirs.
	“He likewise offers, should the Emperor choose to go with his army either against the Turk or into Germany or Italy, to supply half the forces, or to pay one half, at the Emperor's option. Should the King furnish troops, he chooses them to be under the command of the Duke of Bourbon. He moreover offers to come in person, should the Emperor desire, placing at his disposal the whole French fleet, which he would send to Barcelona, manning it with the Emperor's own troops, in case the Emperor passes into Italy.
	“As a wife for the Duke of Bourbon he offers Madame Renée, (fn. 2) promising to restore all his territory; and touching his claims on the county of Provence, that a judicial investigation be made whether it appertain to him or not, and according to the decision de jure so be it done.
	“He also makes reasonable proposals about England.
	“As security, he offers to place all his children in the Emperor's hands.
	“I see no difficulty in this, save the marriage of the King of France to the Queen Dowager of Portugal, she having been promised by the Emperor to the Duke of Bourbon; and this I say, provided the Parliaments of France ratify all the offers made by the King.”
	Has never seen the Chancellor Gattinara so well inclined as at present towards the agreement with France.
	Toledo, 6th June 1525.
	[Italian, 2½ pages.]
June 8. Original Letter Book, Letter no. 358, St. Mark's Library.	1030. The Same to the Council of Ten.
	The Chancellor and the Governor of Bresse have received briefs from the Pope, conferring the grade of Cardinal—the Chancellor for himself, (fn. 3) and the Governor of Bresse for his brother, the Bishop of Maurienne; the promotion to take place in the Ember days of September.
	On the morning of the 3rd the Florentine ambassador [Giovanni Corsi] came in great haste to me, and said, “This King of France (may God damn him!) (fn. 4) has offered the Emperor to give him all your territory at his own cost; and then, should he accept them, he offers him the other Italian states likewise; but I can tell you positively that the Emperor does not choose to have war in Italy.”
	The Chancellor, when talking with the Nuncio [Castiglione] about the conditions of the peace with the King of England, said, “Should he get the arrears of tribute due to him, and the payment continued in future, he may be well satisfied.”
	The Chancellor has also said to me, “Matters are taking a good course; once for all, the Emperor does not choose to have war in Italy.”
	Toledo, 6th to 8th June 1525.
	[Italian, 2¼ pages.]
June 8. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 31.	1031. Marc' Antonio Venier to the Doge and Signory.
	Was told yesterday by Sir Gregory Casal, who is here in the name of the King of England, that his Majesty is well disposed towards the Signory, and that he, Sir Gregory, on his way hither met the Ambassador Orio crossing the sea, but being bound to Calais, he was thus unable to perform such office as due with him.
	Milan, 8th June. Registered by Sanuto, 10th June.
	[Italian.]
June 8. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 75.	1032. Anonymous Letter received by a Merchant at Crema.
	Mons. de Brion, who quitted the most Christian King at Genoa, has not yet arrived at Lyons. Jean de Selve, President of the Parliament of Paris, has departed on his way to Spain to the Emperor; and Dom. Gioachino [Passano] is gone to England, where (it is said for certain) the King has arrested the Imperial ambassador for a certain amount of money claimed by him as a debt due from the Emperor.
	Lyons, 8th June. Registered by Sanuto, 23rd June.
	[Italian.]
June 10. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 44.	1033. Marco Foscari to the Doge and Signory.
	Intelligence has been received that the six French galleys have arrived at Genoa, to be manned by Spaniards. The Pope told him that the most Christian King would be taken to Spain and not to Naples, and desired this information to be kept secret.
	His Holiness has also received advices from England, purporting that the King has written to the Emperor that he will send 200,000 ducats into Italy for the pay of the Emperor's army, wishing it to invade France, and that the Emperor also should remit a similar sum, lest the undertaking fail for lack of funds, as the King will do his utmost against France.
	Rome, 9th and 10th June. Registered by Sanuto, 13th June.
	[Italian.]
June 11. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 47.	1034. Marc' Antonio Venier to the Doge and Signory.
	The Duke of Bourbon has received letters from the Imperial Court at Toledo, dated the 28th May. The Emperor writes to him that he is sending Penalosa to the King of England to urge him to invade France in person, or should he not choose to do so, to provide a good sum of money and send it to Spain, as his Majesty will march his army into France, and cause him, Bourbon, to go to Spain for that purpose.
	In the course of conversation the Duke of Bourbon said to him (Venier), “My lord, you may believe that the voyage of the most Christain King to Spain does not proceed from the Emperor's desire, but by the will of the Viceroy.”
	Milan, 11th June. Registered by Sanuto, 14th June.
	[Italian.]
June 12. Original Letter Book, Letter no. 360, St. Mark's Library.	1035. Gasparo Contarini, Andrea Navagero, and Lorenzo Priuli, Venetian Ambassadors accredited to the Emperor, to the Council of Ten.
	The Chancellor said to the Florentine ambassador, “Don Ugo [de Moncada] and the Viceroy [De Lannoy] urge the Emperor to attack Italy and conquer it for himself; but the Emperor chooses peace and not war in Italy.”
	The Florentine ambassador also states that Don Ugo said to him [Corsi], “You Italians have a good advocate;” and when Corsi inquired who that advocate was, Moncada replied, “The Emperor is a good advocate for you.”
	Toledo, 12th June 1525.
	[Italian, ½ page.]
June 12. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p 56.	1036. Marc' Antonio Venier to the Doge and Signory.
	The Duke of Bourbon intends going to Spain by sea. He is ordered so to do by the Emperor, because, as the King of England does not cross over to France in person, the Emperor will not go to France in person, but will send Bourbon to command the troops in the direction of Perpignan, and attack France.
	Milan, 12th June. Registered by Sanuto, 15th June.
	[Italian.]
June 12. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 109.	1037. Lorenzo Orio to the Doge and Signory.
	On the 5th the King, who was at Windsor, sent two nobleman to him, one by name Lord Gillesland [Dacre?], the other Cavr. — Danse [Sir John Dauncy], who with a great number of horsemen accompanied him to his Majesty. Arrived at Windsor in the evening. Next morning they escorted him to the palace where his Majesty was with the Cardinal and the Dukes of Suffolk and Norfolk and the illustrious Marquis [of Dorset] and well-nigh all the knights of the Garter, whom the King had assembled in honour of his (Orio's) conference with him.
	After presenting his credentials, and saluting the King in the Signory's name, alluded to the great account in which his Majesty was held by the Signory, and to the immense obligations conferred by his late father, and by his Majesty himself, on the State, their citizens, and merchants. Announced his appointment as resident ambassador.
	Notified the Signory's grateful sense of Cardinal Wolsey's good offices in favour of the Republic, and those of the English agents at Rome and Venice, commending the wisdom, prudence, and address of the Bight Reverend Richard Pace, whose proceedings, dictated by his Majesty, were approved by the Signory.
	Sir Thomas More, a man of singular and rare learning, and in great favour with the King and Cardinal, returned thanks to the State for having sent an ambassador, declaring that the King would be as ready to gratify the Republic, as if he had a seat in the Venetian Senate. More then said that the King's good will towards the State was hereditary, and would be perpetual, and also commended Cardinal Wolsey for his demonstrations in favour of the Signory, such having been in accordance with the will of the King. More then spoke in like terms of the negotiations of the Reverend Richard Pace and of the King's other agents in Italy.
	This public ceremony being ended, went to mass, after which dined with the Cardinal, who afterwards took him to the Queen's chamber, where he was received so graciously as to surprise all the bystanders.
	At the close of this audience the King took him by the hand and led him to a window, calling thither Cardinal Wolsey, and having made everybody else withdraw. The audience being then private, he (Orio) informed the King that the Signory were firmly bent on maintaining the confederacy stipulated two years ago with the Emperor, as they conclude the Emperor continues of this mind, and are the more confirmed in this belief because they know the Emperor to be allied with the King, whom he then urged to persevere in his hereditary protection of the State. The King then repeated the offers made at his public audience, saying that he wished for the best possible adjustment between the Emperor and the State, and that lest it should prove detrimental to the Republic the Signory must act with reserve, as they had done hitherto; and if any difficulty remained, he (the King) offered his mediation, provided the Signory desired it. After repeating the promise of his most powerful favour, the King inquired in what position the Signory's affairs with the Emperor were. Was then compelled to confess that he had received no letters and could give no information, which the King greatly regretted. Can do no more, having written letters, both public and private, to members of the College, without ever receiving any reply. Returned therefore to London, because his secretary is ill; hopes he will soon recover.
	Is in such favour with the Cardinal and the King and Queen, and the whole kingdom is so satisfied with him, that should things proceed as he hopes, his service may prove agreeable to the State.
	The King will be in London tomorrow, because he intends to confer a dukedom on a natural son of his, who is seven years old, and also to give him considerable territory. He has legitimatised him, and loves him like his own soul (et amalo quanto l'anima sua). (fn. 5)
	On returning from the Court met the Flemish ambassadors [the Sieur de Bevres and the President of Mechlin] on their way to the King, with a gentleman [Penalosa] from Spain, who went in the first place to the Lady Margaret. Wished to ascertain the object of this gentleman's mission, but was obliged to await his arrival in London.
	On visiting this gentleman elicited that he was come to notify to the King the Emperor's opinion that, in case the King of France refuses to make any restitution of the provinces occupied by him belonging to the Emperor, to England, and to the Duke of Bourbon, he (the Emperor) should invade France and the King of England should do the like. The King replied that this matter was of great importance, and that he had not yet made up his mind, but would do so, and communicate it to his ambassadors with the Emperor. From this answer the Imperialists in England infer, that for the present the King will not make any expedition against France. Is of their opinion.
	London, 12th June 1525. Registered by Sanuto, 1 st July.
	Note by Sanuto.—In the public letters Orio writes that the King said to him, laughing, “The Pope likewise used a little sleight of hand again yesterday (certe garbinelle erri ancora), but the Emperor is a good body (è bona persona).
	At the private audience, when the King offered to adjust the differences between the Emperor and the Signory, he said, “The Pope did wrong to cancel his alliance, first with the most Christian King, and then with the Emperor likewise;” and with regard to the agreement now in course of negotiation, the Cardinal said, “You should procrastinate, and will thus effect it more advantageously.”
	The Spaniard who arrived in London, from the Emperor told him (Orio) that the King spoke the Emperor fair, but would not wage war on France; adding, “The Emperor would do well not to make any agreement with the Signory, but he is unable to accomplish any of the projects desired by him, unless he be on terms with the Republic;” and, in conclusion, he expressed his conviction that at any rate the agreement would be stipulated for a smaller sum than had been originally demanded.
	[Italian.]
June 13. Original Letter Book, Letter no. 361, St. Mark's Library.	1038. Gasparo Contarini, Andrea Navagero, and Lorenzo Priuli, Venetian Ambassadors accredited to the Emperor, to the Signory.
	Navagero and Priuli made their entry into Toledo yesterday. They were met by the ambassadors from Florence, Genoa, Ferrara, Mantua, and Sienna, and the Milanese secretary.
	The Emperor sent the Bishop of Cuenca and the Admiral of the Indies [Diego Columbus, the eldest son and heir of Christopher] to meet them. They had audience today, and their reception was gracious. The Emperor would never allow them to kiss his hand.
	Toledo, 12th and 13th June 1525.
	[Italian, 3 pages.]
June 13. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 65.	1039. Gasparo Contarini, Andrea Navagero, and Lorenzo Priuli, to the Signory.
	On the demise of Duke Frederick of Saxony he was succeeded by his brother, Duke John, who is also at the point of death. He has a son, a young man much beloved and desired by all. (fn. 6)
	Inspruck, 13th June. Registered by Sanuto, 19th June.
	[Italian.]
June 13. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 91.	1040. Francesco Gonzaga to—.
	The Emperor has written an autograph letter to the Pope in the most loving terms possible. He ratifies the league and confederacy made in Italy without altering anything. Although Count Baldassare [Castiglione] writes that pecuniary supply is being raised for the war in France, and that England insisted much on attacking with a very large army, the Pope nevertheless is of opinion that the most Christian King's voyage to Spain will change the plans and projects formed hitherto, and that an agreement will be effected; nor does he think it will be detrimental to Italy.
	Rome, 13th June. Registered by Sanuto, 29th June.
	[Italian.]
June 14. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 9.	1041. The Doge and College to Lorenzo Orio, Ambassador in England.
	The Viceroy having departed from Genoa with his most Christian Majesty on board, the fleet went to Portofino, distant thence about 20 miles, and remained there some days. Have received intelligence from Milan and elsewhere that, by order of the most Christian King, six of his galleys were sent from Marseilles to Genoa, where the French crews disembarked and were replaced by Spaniards. They then all together, numbering 21 galleys, quitted those waters on the night of Thursday the 8th, and with the most Christain King and the Viceroy steered towards Spain.
	[Italian.]
June 15. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 55.	1042. Reginald Pole in Venice.
	It is Corpus Christi Day, and the Doge, clad in cloth of gold with a crimson satin mantle and crimson ducal cap, came to mass in St. Mark's Church, with the ambassadors from the Pope, England, Austria, Milan, Ferrara, and Mantua, the Emperor's ambassador not being present on account of indisposition. Behind them with the councillors was the nephew of the King of England, who is studying at Padua, and who walked with Dom. Jacomo da Pesaro, Bishop of Paphos. (fn. 7) Next came the councillors with the pilgrims of rank, (fn. 8) &c.
	[Italian.]
June 16. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 63.	1043. Marc' Antonio Venier to the Signory.
	Count Gerardo di Archo, who was sent by the Duke of Milan to the Switzers, has returned, accompanied by an ambassador about the affairs of Count Ludovic Borromeo, whom the Switzers wish to have restored to his estates, to which the Duke will not consent; so that this matter is being negotiated.
	Sir Gregory Casal, the English ambassador, is on his way to Rome, where he will remain until further orders from his King Casal has told me that if the Imperial army advances, he shall return and accompany it.
	Milan, 16th June. Registered by Sanuto, 18th June.
	[Italian.]
June 16. Original Letter Book, Letter no. 363, St. Mark's Library.	1044. Gasparo Contarini, Andrea Navagero, and Lorenzo Priuli, to the Council of Ten.
	The Chancellor has received letters from England to the effect that the King, whether in waging war or making peace, referred himself thoroughly to the Emperor.
	In reply to our remark that the English ambassadors at Toledo professed to have neither mandate nor power for the conclusion of peace, the Chancellor answered, “They will doubtless find it when needed.”
	Today the Governor of Bresse told us that the Emperor insisted on the duchy of Burgundy. We are of opinion that the King of France will cede Burgundy from sheer weariness of imprisonment.
	Toledo, 16th June, 1525.
	[Italian, 3 pages.]
June 17. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 96.	1045. Francesco Gonzaga to —.
	The Emperor's secretary Perone [sic, Antoine Perrenot ?] is going to Rome, both to acquaint the Pope with the causes which induced the determination to take the King to Spain rather than to Naples, (the Viceroy likewise on quitting Genoa having apologized by letter to his Holiness, for not giving him earlier notice of the change of plan, as it was formed suddenly by commission from the Emperor), and also for certain other reasons, as by the last letters from England it seems that the project of war against France had somewhat cooled, which is attributed to their having heard of the French King's voyage to Spain. This probably makes the King of England suspect that if the Emperor and France effect an agreement together, all consideration for his Majesty will be dispensed with.
	Rome, 17th June. Registered by Sanuto, 30th June.
	[Italian.]
June 18. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. pp. 68–69.	1046. Marc' Antonio Venier to the Signory.
	The Imperialists are expecting letters from Spain, their delay being attributed to the Emperor's negotiations with the King of England, the King of Portugal, and the King of France.
	Should the first proceed, the two others will be at an end, because if the King of England gives the Princess to the Emperor, the latter can no longer negotiate with the King of Portugal, who only desires to marry his eldest sister to the Emperor. With the most Christian King there is nothing to be done, because if the English King insists on Guienne and part of Picardy, and lays claim to the Crown of France, the Emperor, as his ally, cannot give ear to the most Christian King. If the Emperor listens to the King of Portugal the first negotiation ceases; but should the King of England not insist on the marriage of his daughter, the Emperor might co-operate with him in the other matters.
	On the other hand, if the Emperor listens to the most Christian King the first negotiation with the English King will cease entirely, and his Imperial Majesty remain with France and Portugal. Such are the reports.
	Milan, 18th June. Registered by Sanuto, 20th June.
	[Italian.]
June 18. Original Letter Book, Letter no. 364, St. Mark's Library.	1047. Gasparo Contarini, Andrea Navagero, and Lorenzo Priuli, to the Signory.
	We have had an interview with the Bishop of Osma, President of the Council of the Indies, and the Emperor's confessor.
	The confessor said he was glad to see the two new ambassadors at the Court, because there was a person who sought to sow discord between the Emperor and the Republic, that person being the King of France, who, through the Comendador Penalosa, informed the Emperor that he would show him letters, whereby the Emperor would be well enabled to know his friends and enemies. We replied that this conveyed no accusation against the Republic; and the confessor continued, “He mentioned especially the Signory of Venice. Moreover, letters arrived from Italy a few days ago vituperating the Republic vastly, so that they are in great disrepute at this Court.” To this we made answer that good men and those who were envied had always their slanderers, and that a captive to get out of prison would give and offer everything, but that they well knew the Emperor's ears were not so open to all evil speakers.
	This last remark, concerning the Emperor, was corroborated by the confessor, but he did not enter into any further particulars.
	Toledo, 18th June 1525.
	[Italian, 2 pages.]
June 22. Original Letter Book, Letter no. 365, St. Mark's Library.	1048. The Same to the Same.
	Whilst the Court was in daily expectation of news of the arrival at Naples of the King of France, and of the squadron which was to bring the Duke of Bourbon to Spain, letters arrived at Toledo on the morning of the 20th, dated Barcelona the 17th.
	They purport that on the 15th, off Collioure, (fn. 9) a fleet of 20 galleys and other sail were seen steering towards Spain. On the 16th this fleet anchored off Rosas for provisions, and on board of it were the King of France and the Viceroy [De Lannoy], who set sail from Villa Franca, in Provence, on the 11th.
	Yesterday we went to the Chancellor to hear how this so unexpected an event had come to pass. We understood, through several channels, that the Chancellor had not the slightest knowledge of this intention. He told us that it was indeed the Emperor's wish that the King of France should be brought to Spain, as announced by him, the Emperor, to the Viceroy, but he ordered the King's removal to Naples, on account of the dangers of the Spanish voyage; so that this intelligence, although agreeable to the Emperor, was a surprise tohim.
	The Viceroy subsequently obtained the six galleys of France, which he manned with his own crews; and as the King had given orders that the rest of his fleet was not to stir, the Viceroy was then of opinion that he could bring him to Spain in safety.
	Concerning various matrimonial alliances which were talked of, the Chancellor said that the Duchess of Alençon wished to marry the Emperor. When we replied that the Emperor should negotiate and end by marrying the Princess of Portugal, the Chancellor answered, “We are awaiting an answer from England; until then we can form no resolve.” We then expressed surprise that Tunstall and Wyngfield had brought no decision, most especially concerning the marriage. The Chancellor replied, “They merely came with a commission about making war; I also believe that, with regard to the marriage of the Princess, they incline to the King of Scotland, for the sake of uniting those two kingdoms. I know not; we shall see the result.”
	Toledo, 22nd June 1525.
	[Italian, 3½ pages.]
June 26. Original Letter Book, Letter no. 367, St. Mark's Library.	1049. Gasparo Contarini, Andrea Navagero, and Lorenzo Priuli, to the Signory.
	The King of France is in a palace near Barcelona, where he was well received by the municipal government.
	Letters from Rome, dated the 23rd and 24th ultimo, announce great disturbances in Germany, owing to the Lutheran affairs, concerning which the State will be much better informed through another channel.
	Toledo, 26th June 1525.
	[Italian, 1 page.]
June 28. Lettere del Collegio, Secreta. File no. 9.	1050. The Doge and College to Lorenzo Orio, Venetian Ambassador in England.
	To return ample thanks to the Cardinal for the loving and honorable demonstration made towards the representative of the Signory. The Duke of Bourbon and other personages, the Imperial commanders in Italy, having urged them to decide about the proposal made heretofore in the name of the Viceroy with regard to the 120,000 ducats demanded of the State for his Highness's need in Italy, the Imperialists have consented to accept the 80,000 ducats, payable in two instalments. To this effect the Signory have drawn up a writing and sent it to Milan. Will acquaint him with the result.
	Concerning the progress of the Spanish forces quartered in the territories of Ferrara, Parma, Piacenza, and other places in the Milanese, understand that, with the exception of some 2,500 Spanish foot in the Ferrarese. the rest have recently marched towards Monferrat, for the purpose, as reported, of attacking Saluzzo, which city, however, is (they understand) very well garrisoned, and some French troops are mustering for its defence.
	About a month ago an ambassador arrived at Venice from the Grand Turk ("Signor Turco,” Solyman II.) concerning certain affairs of private individuals who claimed damages from Venetian subjects. The Signory justified the matter by a true statement, and he departed yesterday well satisfied.
	Since their last have heard nothing further respecting the voyage of the most Christian King and the Viceroy to Spain. The Bishop of Bayeux [Lodovico di Canossa] came lately from Rome to Venice, (fn. 10) being sent by the most Serene Regent of France, the mother of the most Christian King. He besought the Signory's good offices, for the release of the most Christian King, with the Pope, requesting his and our intercession with the Emperor; because, if the Almighty grant the most Christian King his liberty, he would hazard his life and kingdom for the benefit of the Christian religion, and not attack any sovereign in any quarter; and France was well prepared for defence. The Signory promised to use their good offices.
	All these particulars have been communicated to the Rev. Richard Pace, with whose proceedings they daily become more and more satisfied. Suppose that, with his usual diligence and assiduity, Pace has imparted all the intelligence to his Majesty and the Cardinal.
	Enclose news-letters respecting the progress of the peasants in Lower Germany, the insurrections in Hungary, and those which have taken place at Constantinople, for communication to the King and Cardinal.
	[Italian.]
June 28. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 89.	1051. Letter written by the College to England, respecting what it has been determined to give the Emperor, that it may be communicated to the King and Cardinal.
June 28. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 89.	[Italian.]
June 29. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 157.	1052. Lorenzo Orio to the Doge and Signory.
	An ambassador has arrived here from France.
	The King has created his natural son, by name Henry, aged seven years, Duke of Buckingham (Beuchingen), with an annual rental amounting to 40,000 ducats; also Earl of Richmond and Viceroy, (fn. 11) so that he takes precedence of everybody; and on this occasion certain ceremonies were performed.
	Dom. Giovanni Gioachino [Passano], ambassador from France or from Madame the Regent, has arrived in London. He conferred with the Cardinal, and negotiated an agreement between France and England; but the King apparently demands Boulogne, which having been refused him, it seems that at length the agreement has been concluded by payment of a considerable sum of money, France being also bound not to make any agreement with the Emperor without the consent of the King of England.
	London, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 29th June. Registered by Sanuto, 17th July.
	[Italian.]
June 29. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 157.	1053. Lorenzo Ohio to—(a private letter).
	The King came to London for the festival of the Corpus Domini, and on the following Sunday, the 18th, created a natural son of his, aged seven years, by name Henry, Earl of Nottingham and Viceroy, and subsequently Duke of Richmond and Donisan [Somerset ?], conferring on him, in conclusion, the highest grade in the kingdom, so that now he is next in rank to his Majesty.
	After this the King created his nephew (fn. 12) Earl of Exeter, making two of his cousins, one a marquis, the other an earl; and of four other gentlemen two were made earls, and two viscounts, with great ceremony and festivity.
	The King then returned to Windsor, and will continue taking his pleasure during the hot weather, though on Corpus Christi Day, both his Majesty and he (Orio) and many others wore gowns lined with lynx's fur, because it was cold.
	Has been marvellously well received, and with great honour, but complains of having had no letters from the Signory or any news from Venice.
	It seems that the Queen resents the earldom and dukedom conferred on the King's natural son and remains dissatisfied, at the instigation, it is said, of three of her Spanish ladies, her chief counsellors; so the King has dismissed them the Court, —a strong measure, but the Queen was obliged to submit and to have patience.
	London, 29th June. Registered by Sanuto, 11th July.
	[Italian.]
June. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxxix. p. 147.	1054. News from Spain.
	Perusal in the Senate of intercepted letters received from Rome, having been written from Spain to Cardinal Colonna by his envoy there.
	The envoy had been well received by the Emperor and the grandees. He urged the Emperor to go to Italy for his coronation, because if he lost so good an opportunity he would regret it hereafter. Told him also that in case of need his master (the Cardinal) would go to Spain to meet him, which pleased the Emperor, who is going to Saragossa and Valencia for the Cortes, to obtain as much money as possible. He will then go Barcelona, to be nearer Italy, as he is inclined to go thither, for which purpose he will hold the Cortes in Castile, dragon, and Valencia, hoping to obtain 800,000 ducats. The grandees have informed him that before his departure they wish him to marry, and exhort him to take the Princess of Portugal, with whom he would receive a million of gold, and not the English Princess, about whom he thought less than of the first named. He will marry before quitting Spain.
	Toledo, — June. Registered by Sanuto, 12th July.
	[Italian.]