Henry VIII: January 1538, 1-10

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 13 Part 1, January-July 1538. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1892.

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'Henry VIII: January 1538, 1-10', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 13 Part 1, January-July 1538, (London, 1892) pp. 1-20. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol13/no1/pp1-20 [accessed 17 March 2024]

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January 1538, 1-10

Titus B .i.,
501.
B. M.
1. Persons to be Remembered.
Names of persons to be had at this time in the King's most benign remembrance.
The Council:—My lord Chancellor, my lords Norfolk, Suffolk, Privy Seal, marquis of Exeter, earls of Shrewsbury, Oxford, Sussex, viscount Beauchamp, lords Chamberlain and Admiral, Master Comptroller, Master Kingston, Master Russell.
The Privy Chamber:—Lord Will. Howard, masters Hennage, Bryan, Cheynne, Browne, Carowe, Wallopp, Nevell, Seymer, Long, Henry and Anthony Knevet, Wellesburne, Dennye, Sadler, Ratcliff, Meawtys, Brereton, Culpeper, Paston; also (fn. n1) Jenyns, Edmunde, Bocher, Nicholas, Penne, Philipp.
The widows and orphans of the persons attainted:—Lord Husey's wife and children. Sir John Bulmer's children, Sir Fras. Bigod's wife and children, Sir Thomas Percy's wife and children, Sir Robert Constable's son, Sir Stephen Hamerton's wife and children, lord Darcy's son, Nich. Tempest's wife and children, Geo. Lomley's wife and children.
The following names are without any special heading:—The lord Clifford, Sir Chr. Dacres, Sir Henry Sayvell, Midelwood, serjeant-at-arms, Eyland (fn. n2) of Hull, Jack à Musgrave, (fn. n3) Rob. and Henry Seymour, Ric. Crumwell, John Aprice, Sir Will. Aparre, Sir John Lamplewe, Sir John Dudley, Sir Chr. Morice, Sir Edmond Walsingham, Ric. Pollard, Rob. Southwell, Sir Will. Pykering, Sir Ric. Page, Sir Griffith Down, Sir Nicholas Poyntes, Sir Anth. Hungerford, Sir T. Palmer of Calais, Geo. Harper, John Wyngfeld, Thos. Holecroft, John Folbery, Edw. Thwaytes, Sir Ant. Wyngfeld, Sir Arthur Hopton, John Freman, John Travers, John Nicolson, Geo. Cotton,——Cotton, "the Queen's secretary who took much pain in the insurrection time," John Candishe, Ric. Sapcottes, Ant. Kingston, Geo. Carewe,——Rogers, Wm. Herbert, Wm. Gonson, Sir——Tyrrel of Suffolk, Sir Fras. Lovell, the Master of the Rolls, Mr. Hutton, ambassador in Flanders, Andro Flammock, Thos. Wriothesley, Michael Stanop, Stephen Vaughan.
Pp. 3. Endd.
2. [Cromwell to the Council In The North.]
R.O. "Fourthly, if any of the goods contained in the schedule be praised to a more value than they be worth, or alleged so to be, you shall cause the same to be indifferently praised again by four honest indifferent persons, so as the said accomptants will abide the like touching other things that be praised under the value; which in case they will seek any relief by that mean you shall also put in ure."
5. As to the goods sold "by the said late sheriff" (fn. n4) under their true value, unless you can prove fraud, the King would not charge his accountants further than the payment of the money received for them.
6. If you find by examination there came to the hands of the said late sheriff more goods and chattels than are contained in the schedule, you shall make also a charge thereof, and annex it in a codicil to the schedule joined with the commission, proceeding in such wise that it may appear that his Highness requireth rather less than more than might justly be demanded, considering the service done by the late sheriff in the time of the late rebellion in those parts. You are also to take like order for the goods of the persons attainted in Richmondshire and other liberties, though their names are not in the schedule; "in which point you be thought to be very scrupulous that, being there councillors, would suffer his Highness to lose his right, which might be recovered by your industries, for want of authority by special commission to look to that indifferently and honestly that might redound to his Grace's benefit.
"Finally, as touching the auditour, his Grace is content you shall [appoint] (fn. n5) some auditour of those parties whom you shall thinke mete, and if there be none such you be thought [to] be men that canne make a just plaine accompte, whiche in this case may serve, and shall be as well accepted being true and subscribed with your handes as though it were painted with the gay form of the best auditors that might be appointed for that purpose. And thus fare."
Draft in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 2.
3. Preaching.
R. O. Order by John bp. of Lincoln, addressed to J[ohn] C[hambere], archdeacon of B[edford], to preach at least eight times in the year in the principal church within his archdeaconry, either by himself or by deputy, the articles approved by the King in Convocation; and to hold synods twice a year in the chief town of the archdeaconry, for the peace of the Church of England, the good estate of the King and Prince Edward, &c.
Latin, large paper, p. 1. Endd.
4. Lisle to [Cromwell].
R. O. Has received his Lordship's letters, written at the Nete on the 20th ult., desiring him to call such of the Council here as he thought fit to compel Robert Whethill, son of lady Elizabeth Whethill, to stand to the agreement made with the lady Elizabeth Whethill, his mother, and allow her to enjoy the farm called the Cawsey. Has accordingly examined the parties in presence of lord Edmund Howard, Sir Rob. Wingfield, Wm. Sympson, under marshal, and John Rokwoode, the mayor of the town, who had essayed to move them to agreement, being also with us, but could not find that any end had been made between them.
Draft, p. 1.
[1 Jan.] 5. Prince Edward.
R. O. New years gifts given to the Prince's Grace, anno 29 Hen. VIII., by the King, the lord Chancellor, dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk, marquis of Exeter, lord Privy Seal, earls of Sussex, Wiltshire, Hertford, and Hampton, and Sir Wm. Pallet, treasurer.
The presents are all pots, cups, &c., of gilt plate, the weight of each being given, and the total weight, 616½ ozs.
P. 1. Endd.
1 Jan. 6. John Colepeper to Cromwell.
Cott. Appx.,
1.61.
B.M.
Is glad to hear of his pro[sperity],—which he prays God will long continue. On New Year's eve, at four o'clock, Robt. Norres, the bearer, brought before him one . . . . . . . . . late of London, for reporting the K[ing's death]. She confessed that she heard it on Thursday last at Wm. Parker's house at Hy[gham] from an old man named Clerk, his servant, who said that "as the King sat upon his horse, h[e saw] God's marks upon his hand and kissed them, and said laudes Deo, and aft[er he lay] 24 hours in a trance and departed, and a great meyny of new mourning hats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . in London, and to every hat a lace, price 4d., and that there should be . . . . . . . . . . . realm; and said further, Now we shall have a merry world,:[and] further, We have had many payments for I have paid 2s. of late." Has sent the woman to Maidstone gaol to wait the King's pleasure, and has commissioned the bearer to bring Clerk to his Lordship. Aylysforde, in Kent, New Year's Day in the morning.
Hol., p. 1. Mutilated. Add., Lord Privy Seal.
1 Jan. 7. John Vachell to Sergeant Chalcott.
Titus B. i.,
175.
B.M.
"This is the copy of the King's pleasure declared by my lord Privy Seal's letter to you and me, delivered at Greenwich, with the preamble left unwritten."
His Majesty commanded me in answer to signify that you shall, according to his letters, cause other of the principal inventors and bruiters of the same to be punished, especially Thos. Hynd and Boxworthe, the almsman of Donyngton, and continue your vigilance in case any more of that sort "will spring in those parts," to apprehend and punish them in the same way. Written, 29 Dec.
"As ye will have in your mind at our last being together, whereof I think I remember at the delivery of the same letter and the other letter to the abbot, my lord Privy Seal declared unto you and me that the King's pleasure was the cook Wylkynson should be punished, and the almsman of Dynnyngton whom ye and I recited by name, Thomas Barne. Ye may see what is written in the letter:" and whether Mr. Wrysseley mistook one name for another I cannot tell, for my Lord did not name Hynde to us. For the more surety, however, we have both Barne and Boxworthe in ward. Barne is with Mr. Stoner, and Boxworthe with Mr. Essex, "and shall be kept apart till they be further examined on the coutemts (sic) declared unto the Council." If my Lord's letter, and not his remembrance by mouth, should be observed, then Wilkinson, the falsest bruiter, will not be among those extremely punished, and Hynd will; whereas ho never named Hynd to us but always Wylkynson and the almsman to be "utterly" punished; "the other not to be punished with nailing and cutting their ears off," but more gently. Please show my lord Privy Seal your own remembrance and mine, and learn his further pleasure. The Commissioners will execute the letters delivered by the writer if they have no further command concerning Hynd.On Thursday after Twelfth day one is to he punished at Newbury at the sessions, another at Abingdon and Oxford, and Hendeley and others at other market towns. All others in prison to he punished at other market towns, some in Wa[n]ttage, Ilyssley, &c., "but the least shall preach on the pillory." Colley, New Year's Day.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.
1 Jan. 8. Morvethe Kyngesmyll, abbess of Wherwell, and the Convent there, to [Wriothesley].
R. O. It pleased your mastership to labour for the advowson of the prebend of Myddelton for Dr. Legh, to which we agreed. Now that it is void by the death of Dr. Fawnes, (fn. n6) we understand that Mr. Cooke pretends a title to it. If it were known how he came by it and "two seals more" against our wills it would sound to his shame. We opened this matter before you, Mr. Chancellor and Mr. Parys, the bp. of Winchester's treasurer. Please speak to Mr. Cooke that he will not pursue his suit. If he will not, I and my sisters desire your mastership to show my lord Privy Seal how the matter stands, and how Mr. Cooke has beguiled us. May it please his Lordship and you that Doctor Legh may enjoy our gift, whose learning and excellent qualities may profit us and our monastery, and not such as may buy it of Mr. Cooke, who, we hear, has sold it to 2 or 3 already. "Pleasith it your mastership" to ponder how he has vexed our monastery with his "seals." Wherwell, 1 Jan.
Hol., pp. 2.
1 Jan. 9. Sir Philip Champernown to Cromwell.
R. O. The abbot of Tavistock is dangerously ill. Begs Cromwell to be good to Dan John Harres, steward of the monastery, to succeed him. He is an honest man and a good clerk. It is the first suit of the kind the writer ever made. Begs that it be not promised to another till he has spoken with Cromwell or Cromwell has heard from him again; for if he should come up himself he would sustain both pain and charges and risk some loss of credit. Cromwell shall have 100l. and his fee augmented. Exeter, New Year's Day. Signed.
P. 1., broad sheet. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
1 Jan. 10. Anthoine Brusset to Lord Lisle.
R. O. When my servant lately returned from you, he told me that your maitre d'hotel had informed him of your wish to have some "ozeles" (birds?). I have sent the "ozeliers "of this town to the fields and they have only been able to take 6 dozen little "garleques," which I send you as a New Year's gift. I wish you and my lady and your daughter Mary a good new year. As to the grains about which I have twice written, 1 shall wait till Candlemas, as you have requested. Gravelines, first day of the year, 1538.
My wife sends a pomegranate to my lady, and to Mademoiselle Marie a pansy (unne pense), that she may think well to have a good husband for her new year's gift.
Hol., Fr., p. 1. Add.
1 Jan. 11. Geo. de Selve, bp. of La Vaur, to Card. Pole.
Poli Epp.
ii. 120.
Recommends Peter de Nuptiis, Francisan, a Christian both in doctrine and character (moribus), of whose business he has written to the cardinal cf St. Cross. Pole will learn it from Danesius; and the writer begs him to aid it with the cardinal of St. Cross. Vaur, Kal. Jan. 1538.
Latin.
2 Jan. 12. John Baker to Cromwell.
R. O. Learnt of late, by a letter from Stephen Thorneherst, of Brokeland in the Mersche, that William Knell, a head yeoman of that place, had spoken certain words concerning the bp. of Rome. To-day I hare examined, on the subject, the said Stephen, Thomas Joyse, of Brokeland, Edw. Godfrey, of Apuldore, and Wm, Warcop, of Brokeland, and enclose their depositions: let me know your pleasure by the bearer. I have received your letter touching a certain weir of Stephen Asten, of Yealdyng, to be pulled down; next Tuesday I shall speak of it to Sir Thos. Nevyle. Cranebroke, 2 Jan.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
2 Jan. 13. Mary [Duchess of] Richmond to Cromwell.
R. O. Since her husband died a year and a half past, her father, under whose tuition she is, has often promised to be a suitor to the King for her dower; without any good effect to her. Begs Cromwell's help. About a fortnight past, she wrote to her father asking leave to come up and sue to the King for herself; but had "so short an answer" that she is in despair. Begs him to deliver the "humble supplication" he shall receive herewith, to the King, to remit the cause to the judges and the Council. But one thing, as her counsel say, delays the matter—that she cannot have out the writs. Trusts in Cromwell's mediation. Kenyngal, 2 Jan.
Hol., p, 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
2 Jan. 14. Edward Mountagu to Cromwell.
R. O. I have received your letters for Thomas Bright and Philip Clarke, whom I lately had attached, to be sent to your Lordship. I send, by this bearer, Clarke, who was in Peterborough gaol; the bringers be the abbot of Peterborough's servants. I have advertized Sir William Parre, in whose custody Bright remains, and suppose he will send him; if not, I will see him conveyed up. I send, by bearer, their examinations when first attached, with the copy of letter from Jackeman, commissary of Bucks, that was lately robbed, describing them that robbed him: it is like that Bright and Clarke were of that company. Clarke confessed they both were at London the day before the robbery, which Bright denies. "At the coming of Clarke he shove his beard and delivered his hostess 3l. where he lacked money before." This was 4 or 5 days after the robbery, and how they came to that money neither will tell. Clarke lately moved the bailey of Fodryngey to "assentyd" (have assented) to the robbing of Fodryngey College, as I shall inform your Lordship at my coming up in the beginning of next term. Hemyngton, 2 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
2 Jan. 15. Dr. John London and William Freurs to Wriothesley.
R. O. My Lord (fn. n7) was pleased that Mr. Fryer and I should enquire what hold of Osney was most like to be soon void, and promised to write to the newabbot for Mr. Fryer to have a lease of it. The parsonage of Watlyngton is the next to be void and lies commodiously for Mr. Fryer, who leases a mill there. He and I beg you to obtain my Lord's letters for the same. Oxon, 2 Jan. Signed.
In London's hand, p. 1. Add. Endd.
2 Jan.
R. O.
16. Walter Walsshe to Cromwell.
Hearing of mutterings hereabouts, made search and tried out two fellows whose confessions are enclosed. Cannot find that any spake thereof with malice or rejoicing, but rather lamenting and sorrowing one to another. Has, however, set them fast till he knows Cromwell's pleasure. Elmeley, 2 Jan.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
2 Jan. 17. Sir Will. Brereton to Cromwell.
R. O. Sir Henry Delves to whom, as sheriff of Cheshire, you wrote for the admission of Thos. Hurleton as his deputy, refuses to obey, on account of the favour he bears to Sir Piers Dutton, and says he has made your Lordship answer therein. One George Mulington lately confessed many misdemeanours, committed both by himself and others, in killing the King's game in Dalamare forest. I sent out process for his apprehension and he was, at Dutton, 13 Dec., attached, by the King's bailiff errant, to have been committed to Chester Castle; but he was rescued by dame Julian, wife to the said Sir Piers Dutton, who keeps him there without punishment. I eftsoons sent other letters to the sheriff, who, though he has had sufficient time for execution of the writ, has made a false return. The sheriff lately sent one Broke to me to be admitted as his deputy, but, as he was quite an unfit man and considering the demeanour of the sheriff, I respited it till I know your pleasure. Brereton, 2 Jan. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
2 Jan. 18. Thos. Fairfax to Cromwell.
R. O. Understands from the bp. of Durham, president of the Council in these parts, and by sundry commissions and warrants, that the King has appointed him one of the Council with a yearly fee of 20l. Asks him to thank the King on his behalf. 2 Jan.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
2 Jan. 19. John Craiford and Rouland Lathum to Wriothesley.
R. O. Write in answer to his last, letters dated 29 Dec. Thank him for his new year's gift received from Edmund Clerk, i.e. his capacity for the lordship of Titchfield, the King's grant to him of the same, which they will send back as soon as the tenants have seen it, and the courts have been kept to his use. The quondom, this 2 Jan., is sent for. The Bishop (fn. n8) would have had the steward for his chaplain, and on his refusal was in a great passion and quoted this scripture Filios enutrivi et educari, ipsi autem spreverunt me; meanwhile the writers viewed the wheat and malt in the garners. Cannot find any untruth in him (the steward) but will examine the servants apart.
The late abbot praised him highly and the writers think such another could not be got for 100 mks. Will provide that Wriothesley may keep his wife quietly at London and make no waste here. The steward, brewer and cook will do more in an hour than all his people at Michildevor in a day. Details and suggestions of alterations in the house and grounds to be made according to Wriothesley's device. Mr. Mylls and Mr. Huttoft tarried with them all Friday last and gave them their advice. The bailey of Gernsey and Mr. Wells of Hampton were here at the same lime. Viewed the fishponds—four of them a mile in length. The bailey will give Wriothesley 500 carps to stock the ponds, Mr. Huttoft providing freight, Mr. Mylls tubs, and Mr. Wells conveyance of the carps; so that in three or four years' time he may sell 20l. or 30l. worth of them every year. Mr. Sherlond was there on Sunday, and from East Meane, 14 miles off, came half a dozen neighbours who promised to buy marble stones, altars, &c., on which the writers purpose to levy their Christmas charges. "Mrs. Wriothesley nor you neither be not meticulous ne scrupulous to make sale of such holy things" having the example of a devout bishop of Rome, named Alexander, whose epitaph is—
"Vendit Alexander cruces, altaria Christi.
Vendere jure potest, emerat ille prius."
"Mistress, your husband will open the sense of these two verses." Plucking down the church is a small matter as you will build a chapel. The abbot of Beulew will furnish pike, tench, and bream. Having no time to make a new plate "I" have sent back yours corrected as we think meet. Though Mr. Serjeaunt must go on his journey and I accompany him for a special purpose as you know, yet I think it were very necessary to repair to you. 2 Jan. Signed.
In Craiford's hand, pp. 6. Add.
2 Jan.
R.O.
20. John Craford, and others, to Wriothesley.
Where in our other letters we spake of 500 or 1,000 carps to store your ponds, "I told not all; you shall have so many as you need." We be glad of line beds, carpets and cushions to furnish your house of Titchfield, lately conveyed from Michildever, and have recompensed the same with lath and salt, trusting to your wife's judgement therein. We look daily to see you convey a great part of the whole, children and others, to your said manor. We will direct two of your pensioners to you, for as yet they be assured of none at our hands. Wish him to procure a licence for Sir Thos. Godffrey, vicar of Titchfield, who, in trust of their word, has changed his habit. Have compounded with the steward that he should resign a benefice of 12l. to any of your pensioners, namely, the prior, and have 20 marks pension till provided with a competent benefice. The name of the benefice is Kelham, Notts; the patron is the abbot of Welbeck. Titchfield, 2 Jan.
Mr. White, Mills, Rith and Roke will keep your courts after Twelfth Day k "and weigh your abbot's instructions accordingly." Signed by John Craford, R. Lathom, John Whyte, Thos. Knyghte and Anthony Roke.
Pp. Add.
2 Jan.
R. O.
21. William Noxtun, prior of Southwick, to Wriothesley.
I thank you for your letter and, according to my promise, send you by bearer, my servant, my convent seal "therein named your gret fee." If the making or it is not to your pleasure we will new seal it. Suthwik, the second day of this new year.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
2 Jan. 22. [The Irish Commissioners] to Cromwell.
R. O.
St. P. ii. 534.
Received 21 (fn. n9) of "this" December, his letters dated Otelande, 10 Dec. Have surveyed all the King's lands and leased out a great part of them and set forth the pardon, for Which they have already 2,000 mks, in fines, and expect more. Have dissolved Parliament (1) because the members desired it; (2) because the King's causes were well finished, as appears in a note of the Acts passed hereinclosed; and (3) because, searching the old Acts of Parliament, they found that "Parliament mought not well be holden as it was," as appears by the note enclosed.
As to O'Conner, the Deputy, when in Offaly, lost 5 or 6 men in Odynne's country, among them Hen. Hoke, through whose negligence they were surprised. The Deputy spoiled most part of Odynne's country, and O'Connor, though he had as many men, durst not face him. Upon the Deputy's return home O'Conner sued for a safe conduct to come to him, but afterwards was enticed away by his brother Kayr O'Conner, to whose custody the Deputy had committed Offaly. The country is easier won than kept. The Deputy has never had O'Conner personally in his power. O'Conner's last bond allowed him to go anywhere in Ireland,, except to Offayle, and for this his pledges are still in ward; but few Irishmen esteem their pledges if they see their advantage.
James of Desmond does not fulfil his promises. Have written again to him showing that the King takes his submission in good part.
Wrote in their last that there were things requiring reformation and too tedious to write. One thing suggested this, the counties of Kilkenny, Tipperary and Waterford are distant from the other four shires, so that the justices cannot conveniently go there. They would therefore move the King to appoint two substantial justices to reside in Waterford. Expect within three weeks to finish their charge and perfect the vice-treasurer's account. Dublin, 2 Jan. Signatures cut off.
Add.: Lord Privy Seal.
R. O. 2. Copy of the above.
Pp.3.
R. O. 3. Acts passed in the Parliament of Ireland, 28 Hen. VIII. (Three sessions.) As in Vol. XII., Pt. ii. No. 1288.
Pp.2.
R. O. 4. Another copy of § 3. Pp.4.
R. O.
St. P. ii. 534.
5. Statute of the Parliament at Dublin, 16 Edw. IV., enacting that knights and burgesses returned to Parliament must be dwellers in the places they represent, that proctors of the spiritualty be resident in the dioceses of the prelates who send them, and that no Parliament be prorogued oftener than twice.
French.
2 Jan.
R. O.
23. Nicholuccio Vinacciesi to Mr. Checheley.
Anwarpe, 2 Jan. 1538:—Has not written since he spoke with him at Calais. Asks him to speak to the King's goldsmith as Aungel del Myllonesse shall require him. Hears from Rome that there is a fire fallen upon Castle St. Aungel, on St. Peter's, and St John Latyrane. It is thought to be a prognostication that the priests shall be punished. The duke of Cleve has taken the duke of Luryna's daughter, and the duke of Gelder has given her his duchy in dote to make the marriage, with condition that the dukeof Gelder shall have the rent during his life. The duke of Cleve gives his sister to the duke of Lyrrynson (i.e., Lorraine's son). Signed.
P. 1. Add.: To Mr. Checheley of the King's wardrobe, at the Court. Begins "Mayster Sysel." Endd.
3 Jan.
R. O.
24. John Husee to Lord Lisle.
I delivered on New Year's Day your gift to the King. As soon as I was within the chamber of presence my lord Privy Seal smiled and said to the King "Here cometh my lord Lysle's man," and the King replied merrily, but I cannot tell what he said. After I had done my duty, his Grace received it of me smiling and giving more words to me than to any other that came, saying "I thank my Lord. How doth my Lord and my Lady? Are they merry?" "The King stood leaning against the cupboard, receiving all things, and Mr. Tywke at the end of the same cupboard penning ail things that were presented, and behind his Grace stood Mr. Kyngston and Sir John Russell, and besides his Grace stood the earl of Harforde and my lord Privy Seal. There was but a small Court." The King came to York Place the 2nd inst., and returns to Greenwich on the 4th. My lord of Wiltshire is again in Court and well entertained. "The election lieth betwixt Mrs. Mary Shelton and Mrs. Mary Skypwith. I pray Jesu send such one as may be for his Highness' comfort and the wealth of the realm. Herein I doubt not but your Lordship will keep silence till the matter be surelier known." I had the 20l. of Mr. Rolles. I would gladly know your answer to my letters by Jaymes and whether you will have my lady Lisle (fn. n10) now removed to the parish church of Tychefylde. I pray Jesu send you shortly an abbey, in cowmendam to your priory, with many good new years. London, 3 Jan.
Hol., p. 1. "Add.: Deputy of Calais.
3 Jan.
R. O.
[1537–40.]
25. Andrew Lord Wyndesore to Cromwell.
Complains that the lord mayor of London has lately troubled the King's tenants of the Wardrobe, and tries to compel them to watch and do all things as citizens should. They have never done this, nor paid any fifteenth or taxes, being always taken for inhabitants of the King's palace and mansion, and the King was answered for the fifteenth as much then as now for the parish only. No man was ever arrested by his serjeants within the precincts; "if he did," he was sent to the Tower or the Fleet for breaking the liberties. Besides, grants have been made of these liberties, which Wyndesore himself showed to the late King, who bade him see them well kept, and go to Sir Humfrey Coynesby and Sir Ric. Elyott, then his Serjeants, to draw a new grant and insert other articles. Has these to show. If he had lived till Easter term after, they would have been sealed with the broad seal. Has been in his chamber with ague five weeks, or would have shown Cromwell of it himself. "The days have been it would have weighed to a forfeiture of the liberties of the city, and a less matter than this is, for to have usurped of the liberties of the King's palace or mansion." Asks Cromwell to cause the mayor to stay the matter till he can come to London. Stanwell, 3 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Keeper of the King's Privy Seal. Endd.
3 Jan.
R. O.
26. Thos. Prior of Christchurch, Canterbury, to Cromwell.
About one o'clock today received from him a letter concerning the parsonage of Newenton beside Lambehith, which is now void by death. It is not in the gift of the convent, but of the archbishop. If it were in his gift, would bestow it at Cromwell's pleasure. Canterbury, Thursday, 2 p.m., 3 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
3 Jan. 27. Mochelney Abbey.
Close Roll,
p. 1, no. 15.
Surrender, by Thomas, the abbot (of Miclenya, alias Miclanum, alias Meclanga, alias Muchelnia, &c.), and the convent, of the monastery and all its possessions in cos. Somers., Devon, Dors., and elsewhere in England and Wales and the Marches thereof. Sealed 3 Jan. 1537, 29 Hen. VIII., in presence of Sir Thos. Speke, John Sidenham, Win. Wittcombe, Nich. Serger, John Southwood, LL.D., John Cresse, elk., Thos. Phillippis, and Robt. Warmyngton, notary public.
Acknowledged same day before Thos. Legh, one of the clerks or masters of Chancery.
Latin.
3 Jan.
R. O.
28. William Sutton to Wriothesley.
My mistress and the rest of the household are well, as Mr. Clerke will declare. Your keeper says one of your mares is dead which came from Dr. Bellicis, and which was sick at my being at Stoke Park on Christmas eve. Hopes to see to everything here to Wriothesley's satisfaction. Micheldevor, 3 Jan.
Hol., p. 1. Sealed.
4 Jan.
R. O.
29. John Bp. OF Lincoln to Cromwell.
Forgot to move Cromwell "for my cosen archedekon (fn. n11) his banke," which is behind of 115l. due in Juue last, and all the money he should have had since. Asks him to send to Bryan Tuke for the delivery of the same to "my cosyn Robyns." 4 Jan. Signed.
P.1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Sealed. Endd.
4 Jan.
R. O.
30. Sir Fras. Bryan to Cromwell.
The bearer is the person whom at my desire you preferred to be prior of Coventry. I beg you will dispatch him, aud, when he is made prior, I will fulfil my promise to you. Westminster Palace, 4 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
4 Jan.
R. O
St. P. viii. 12.
31. Edmond Harvel to Cromwell.
By last advices from Rome, of 28th ult., peace between the Emperor and French king is certain. Barbarossa's flight was fabulous. He is now said to be in the Archipelago with 100 sail plundering the islands belonging to Venice. His men have done infinite damage in Candy. Venice is arming new galleys in defence. It is thought the Christians will be ready this year to invade Peloponnesus; for the duke of Urbino, captain of the League, is here having new artillery and other things made. Hears that the League will have 150 galleys, 80 or 100 ships, and 50,000 footmen. The duke is esteemed the best military head of the world. Antonio Doria "Genevois," a man of about 40 years of age, has been here, and has been shown great honour. He is not inferior in virtue to Andrea. Venice, 4 Jan. 1537.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
4 Jan.
Add. MSS.
28,590, f. 55.
B. M.
32. Covos and Granvelle to Aguilar.
Awaiting the Emperor's answer to their last, before starting for Leocata to meet the French commissioners, have received his letter of 20 Dec., by the courier who came about Philip Strozzi, and sent it on to the Emperor.
The Pope and the negotiation for peace. The legates to be sent to the Emperor and French king should be delayed as much ns possible. The proposed Italian league. The Pope's practice to arm 30 galleys at Venice is good, as it will disturb the agreement of the Venetians with the Turk. The Council and the Emperor's return to Italy. The Pope's proposal to go to Bologna. Novara. As to Philip Strozzi, his son has been here, and they made difficulties about letting him pass, but, as his Holiness interferes in his favour, they have sent him on to the Emperor.
Spanish, pp. 6. Docketed: Al Marques de Aguilar, de Salses, 4 de Enero, 1538—"Es la que escrivieron el Comendador Mayor y Mr. do Grandvella." Modern copy from the archives of Simancas.
[See Spanish Calendar, V., ii. No. 173.]
5 Jan.
R. O.
33. Sir John FitzJames to Cromwell.
Thanks him for obtaining licence for him to stay at home last term. In consequence of his old disease, which he supposes to be the gout, has not been able to leave his chamber since 12 days before Christmas. Could not therefore ride to Mochelney to take a fine of the abbot; but Dr. Legh came with the abbot to his house, where he resides to avoid the contagious air, and he has taken of the abbot the "knowliche" of a fine and recovery which he sends by Dr. Legh. In the note of the recovery there are put certain advowsons which will not be recovered by writ of entry, but he supposes the fine is sufficient. Likewise in the fine some things are put in which he supposes will not stand with the course, but he had rather put in too much than too little. The notes of both fine and recovery shall be in London the first day of next term, and one of his clerks shall be ready to engross it. Will himself be there the same time if possible. At the poor parsonage of Horsyngton, 5 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Sealed. Endd.: Lord Chief Justice.
5 Jan.
R. O.
34. Blockley, Worcestershire.
The confession of John Jeynkyns, of Blockley, Wore, elk., taken by John Grevell, esq. and Wm. Sheldon, 5 Jan. 29 Hen. VIII.
The said Sir John Jeynkes (sic) deposes that about three years past Sir Marten Cave said to him that though he prayed for the King and took him as Supreme Head for fear, he could not find in his conscience to do so. Told him it was treason, and reported it to Mr. Saundars, a priest, at Winchcombe, who advised him to "open the matter," and came to Blockley and preached the Royal Supremacy. Declared Cave's words in Ric. Walgreve's house, in presence of Ric. Tucker and John Wever, and to Mr. Wyttney, who said he would help to have Cave punished, and to Thos. Hunckes, gent., who examined him about it last hay harvest.
Deposes also that, going to Campden to pay the tenth to one Tyndale, receiver, Sir Wm. Cave, kinsman of Sir Marten, grudged paying for his chantry in Blockley, and cursed the makers of the Act, and afterwards said there would never be a good world in England while the King lived. One Wm. Broderer, of Blockley, kinsman of the Cave's, threatened him for calling them traitors. Hunckes and Dr. Hallysworth, vicar of Blockley, attempted to make peace between him and Broderer. About last Michaelmas Thos. Hunckes prevented the inhabitants of Northwick from contributing to the cost of the men who went to serve in the wars against those of the North, when desired by Thos. Freman, bayley of the lordship of Blockley. Signed by Jenkyns.
Pp. 4. Endd.
R. O. 2. Deposition of Ric. Walgreve of Blockley that a year ago or more Sir John Geynkynnes told him of Cave's saying. Said Cave was worthy to stretch a halter, and advised him to open the matter further.
P. 1.
6 Jan.
R. O.
35. Henry Prior of Sheen to Cromwell.
The advowson of the vicarage of Godshill, in the Isle of Wight, had passed their convent seal, as the prior showed Mr. Worsley, Cromwell's servant, before the receipt of his Lordship's letters. Shene, 6 Jan.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Cromwell. Endd.
R. O. 36. Thomas Parry to Wriothesley.
I have just delivered my lord my master's letter to the prior of Shene, who (taking it as unkind) says that before Michaelmas last the advowson in the Isle of Wight was given by convent seal to Thos. Typping, M.A., (fn. n12) vice-principal of Brasenose in Oxford. I think it is not yet given, or at least that only the vicarage is given, and not the parsonage in the letter mentioned. Speedy suit should be made herein "fearing that the prior will send to Oxon for this matter, &c." Anth. Cotes' lease is sealed and delivered. Pardon this rude writing, for in haste I wrote it in the ferry boat. I go hence to Norfolk and Lincolnshire on my Lord's affairs. Shene, Friday, 3 p.m.
P. 1. Add.
6 Jan.
R. O.
37. George Lord Cobham to Cromwell.
The bailey of Maidstone and my neighbour Wm. Parker, of Higham, were commanded, 2 Jan., by Master Colpeper, J.P., to bring to your Lordship John Clerke of Higham, to be examined of certain words he was accused of speaking touching the King. On their way Clerke escaped, for which Wm. Parker is in great fear, though it happened through the negligence of the bailey. Begs Cromwell to be good lord to him. Cobham Hall, 6 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
6 Jan.
R. O.
38. Anne [Lady] Berkeley, widow, to Cromwell.
I have received your letters and assure your Lordship that if my heart might be toward Mr. Dudley, as it is not, I would be reconciled by your good Lordship before any other. I have certified the King that I cannot with my heart accomplish his pleasure as to Mr. Dudley, and I likewise assure your Lordship that my stomach cannot lean there, neither as yet to any marriage. Yatte, 6 Jan. 29 Hen. VIII.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
6 Jan.
Add. US.
28,590, f. 60.
B. M.
39. Charles V. to Lope Hurtado de Mendoça.
Heard from Genoa that he and his wife had proceeded to Pisa. Charges him to send news how he finds the Duchess, (fn. n13) and not to let her go on hunting expeditions of three or four days' duration, as it is reported she has done. Barcelona, 6 Jan. 1538.
Spanish, pp. 2. Docketed: A Lope Hurtado de Mendoça, de Salses, 9 (sic) Jan. 1538. Modern copy from the Archives of Simancas. [See Spanish Calendar, V. ii., No. 174.]
7 Jan.
40. Cromwell to [The Bp. of—.]
Cleop. E. v.
302.
B. M.
Burnetiv.394.
Strype's Eccl.
Memo. I. i.
467.
A circular letter to the following effect:—You shall herewith receive the King's letters to put you in remembrance of His Highness' travails and your duty touching order to be taken for preaching; that the people may be taught the truth and yet not charged at the beginning with over many novelties, the publication whereof, unless tempered with much wisdom, breeds rather contention, division, and contrariety in the unlearned multitude, than edifies them or removes from their hearts the abuses which have crept in by the corrupt and unsavoury teaching of the bp. of Rome. I doubt not that you will put the letters in execution to his Grace's satisfaction. As the King has appointed me his supreme and principal officer in all matters touching the clergy, I thought it well to desire you to avoid contrariety in preaching, and the pronunciation of novelties without discreet qualification, and to repress the temerity of those who would advance the pretended authority of the bp. of Rome, so that I be not forced to complain further. I desire your Lordship to accept my meaning, and to think no unkindness that I write frankly, as it is almost more than time to speak. The Rolls, 7 Jan. Signed.
Pp. 2.
Cleop. E. iv. 7.
B. M.
2. Another copy. Dated 7 Jan. and signed.
Pp. 2.
N.B.—The second copy of this circular is calendared in Vol. X., 46, and the document is evidently of the same year as X, 45. But both documents seem to have been attributed to a wrong year, for unless the circular was addressed to all the bishops, Athequa would never have been addressed in such a style a3 he is in the King's letter.
7 Jan.
R. O.
41. Witchcraft.
Fulk Vaughan examined before Thomas Wriothesley, Paul Withipol, and Dr. Starky, 7 Jan. 29 Hen. VIII.:—says that, on Thursday, the 3rd inst., he saw a number of people gazing on a thing in the churchyard over against his master's house. Heard the people say it should be a child buried. Afterwards the clerk of the church took out a piece of cloth knit like a winding sheet and ripped it and found therein an image of wax made in the form of a young child with two pins thrust into it. When the clerk had taken out the image, this deponent took up the sheet and went straight with it to one Pole, a scrivener, in Crooked Lane, and asked him what it meant. "Marry, quoth Pole, it was made to waste one. But, quoth he, he that made it was not his craft's master, for he should have put it either in horse dung or in a dunghill. Why, quoth this deponent, may one kill a man after this sort? Yea, quoth Pole, that may be done well enough." On this Pole's wife came up and this deponent left him. Examined further whether he heard the said Pole speak of conjuring matters before, says he has told him several times that he could do many things, especially in getting money hidden under ground, that my lord Privy Seal had taken away his books, but he could do many things without them. Pole moved him twice to go into the country with him to get money hidden under ground, and about a fortnight ago they arranged to go after Christmas to Yarmouth. Then Pole told him that he had gotten the King much money, and that he had a placard in time past for such purposes; also that he had friends in the country who had books enough for all purposes. Signed: Thorns. Wriothesley: Powle Wythypol: Thomas Starkey; and also with a mark which seems to be deponent's.
In Wriothesley's hand, pp. 2. Endd.: Touching the wax child.
1538.
7 Jan.
R. O.
42. Thomas Legh, LL.D., to Cromwell.
On the 3rd January inst., I began, at Mochelney, my visitation according to your instructions. I found the abbot, very negligent and also defamed of incontinency, and 10 brethren, all very ignorant. After examination they all subscribed to the instrument of their surrender, sealed it with their common seal, and delivered it in presence of divers knights and gentlemen. Which done and the seals delivered and defaced, inventories were made: moveables very simple and bare, immoveables good, but the house indebted 400l., besides annuities and pensions, 43l. 12s. a year; bells and lead, good, "and much the better because they were not easy to be alienate, sold, or carried away." According to a letter of attorney given to Mr. Richard Phylippis by the earl of Hertford, I committed the monastery to the custody of the said Mr. Richard. On the 5th, the abbot, having sufficient letter of attorney from his brethren, came before my lord Chief Justice and myself and acknowledged the instrument sealed and the subscription to be their voluntary deed, desiring the same to be enrolled in the Chancery. My lord Chief Justice for more assurance, took a note of a fine and of a recovery, copies of which, with the instrument, I shall bring with me. God send you a good new year! I trust no light conjecture or false surmise may withdraw your favour from me. Horsis Melcom, 7 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
7 Jan.
R. O.
43. Nicholas [Shaxton], Bishop of Salisbury, to Cromwell.
Instituted the bearer, his chaplain, (fn. n14) to the benelice of Hawkechurche, Dorset, (fn. n15) on presentation by Dr. Benet, chaunter (fn. n16) of Salisbury, by title of an advowson granted by the abbot and convent of Cerne. Walter Skynner then brought letters from the archbishop of Canterbury, saying that the said chaplain was not "denized" and ordering him to admit the clerk (fn. n17) presented by him. Fearing to offend the King's laws, did so, but now finds that his chaplain was "denized" a quarter of a year before that time. Asks Cromwell to relieve his chaplain in this his just cause. Rammesbury, 7 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
7 Jan.
R. O.
44. Anthony Roke to Wriothesley.
This Twelfth Day, while with Mr. Maxwell helping to draw the platt of the whole house, I received your letter by one of my lord of Bangor's servants, and send the two white bowls with the cover by Mr. Serjeant of the Accatry. Will look to the wastes of the house when the courts have been kept, which will not be done this ten days. Intended to have ridden afterwards to Micheldever about the felling of the woods and the 20l. he delivered to Sutton, but waits to hear Wriothesley's pleasure, because a carpenter who on Friday took all the timber off the roofs of the church, has since had two dead of the sickness in his house, by a strange woman from Romsey, who is dead also, and two more are sick. The house is shut up and orders given that none of your servants come within the town. They did not die of the plague here many years, but the saying is it comes seldom and then very sore. As to your buildings, the church once down, here is lodging enough for a while, and likewise at Micheldever. Scribbled 7 Jan., going to horseback.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Sealed.
7 Jan.
R. O.
45. Sir Rauff Eure to Cromwell.
As the King by Cromwell's means gave him the keeping of Searborough castle, he must report that of late part of the wall and the ground of the same is shot down in the outer ward betwixt the gatehouse and the castle. Begs rememembrance of his long suit. Fourbryg, 7 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal.
7 Jan.
Poli Epp.
ii. 101.
46. Card. Pole to the Card, of Liege.
The Pope's absence from Rome and the unusual amount of business these holidays prevented the soliciting of Liege's causes. To-day, however, cards. Campeggio, Simonetta, and the writer explained to His Holiness the disobedience of Liege's clergy, who refused to admit his visitors sent by his legatine authority. Of the visitors the Pope said he knew Theodorieus very well. He promised to send a satisfactory brief which Campeggio undertook to draw up. Rome, 7 Jan. 1538.
Latin.
8 Jan.
R. O.
47. Sir Brian Tuke to Cromwell.
These be to remind your Lordship concerning the Fifteenth; for the money I got last term of the Subsidy is well nigh employed and I shall have few receipts till March, and after March and April receipts, which be of revenues, little all summer, for the King's debts are expired or suspended, so that I shall not have furniture even for my ordinary. Since I have been treasurer of the Chamber I have had as much yearly as has borne the charges; now, failing the Subsidy, reckoned at 20,000l. a year, I cannot bear them by so much. I write this not only for this year, but for future years, when this Fifteenth shall be expired. The Fifteenth should be paid to my office, first, because, of very order and course, it should be so, and secondly, it is necessary. I refer all to the King and your Lordship; being best contented with least receipts, so my payments be cut off accordingly. My house in London, 8 Jan. 1537.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Sealed. Endd.
[8 Jan.]
R. O.
48. John Baker to Cromwell.
As commanded by your letters, I send by the bearer, my servant, the same Wm. Knell of whom I before wrote. Maidstone, Tuesday.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
8 Jan.
R. O.
49. John Uvedale to Cromwell.
Is persuaded that the Holy Word of God will in brief time hunt all manner religious persons (as they have been called) out of their monasteries, cowls, and cloisters. When this happens, asks Cromwell to obtain for him the farm of the house, demesnes, and parsonage of Marryke nunnery. Has asked his friend Soilyman to be a mean for him and to remember Cromwell in this behalf. York, 8 Jan.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
8 Jan. 50. Geo. [Brown], Archbp. of Dublin, to Cromwell.
Lamb. MS.
602, f. 104.
St. P. ii. 539.
In Ireland, even within the diocese of Dublin, where the King's power ought to be best known, can neither by exhortation nor by threats induce anyone to preach the word of God or the King's title. They who, before the King's title of Supreme Head was declared, could preach untilright Christians were weary of them, will not now open their lips, but seek to hinder the archbishop. Complains especially of the Observants. This is due to the Lord Deputy's extreme handling of the archbishop, both by frequent imprisonment and by expelling him from his own house. Suggests that Cromwell should send to Mr. Treasurer, the Chief Justice, and the Master of the Rolls, such a "strait commandment" over the writer and all other ecclesiastics, as the King has lately sent to the several sheriffs of England. There is never an archbishop nor bishop, but the writer, made by the King, "but he is repelled, even now, by provision." Cannot get the bishop of Rome's name cancelled from service books unless he sends his own servants to do it. Must have a vicar-general and master of the faculties. There is lately come to Ireland, from Rome, a pardon such as Julius II. granted when the wars were between him and the French king. If such a traitorous fact should pass without punishment while the King's Commissioners are here, what will men think? The spiritualty seduces the rest. Dublin, 8 Jan. Signed.
Add.: Lord Privy Seal.
8 Jan.
Baronius,
xxxii. 484.
51. The General Council.
Note that a Consistory was held 8 Jan. 1538, in which the Pope deputed the following Cardinals to attend to matters touching the Council:— Bishops—cards. Ostiensis and Sabinus; priests—cards. Ghinucci, Simonetta, Contarini, Chieti, and Sadolet; and deacons—cards. Caesarinus and Pole.
Latin.
9 Jan.
R. O.
52. Richard Whalley to his son, Hugh Whalley.
Has accomplished his son's letter concerning the farms of Dunton and Rakedale, and visited them. The mansion house of Dunton is ruinous, but that of Rakedale a very proper little house. Advises him to get his grant sealed (fn. n18) with speed, for there will be labour made against it. One of Sir Hen. Sacheverell's sons, Mr. Robert, is farmer of Dunton, paying yearly to the King 7l., and to the bishop of Lincoln and archdeacon of Leicester, 11s. 1d. The vicar has the tithe hay. He that dwelleth in the parsonage is an old man, scant able to occupy it. Details the rent he pays and estimates the tithes of corn, wheat, rye, barley, peysen, and oats. The farmer of Rakedale is an old priest who was before "my lord and yours "at Conwall at the suppression in the Cardinal's time. There is a vicar, but this priest serves the cure (gives rent, &c. as before). Has discharged this priest of the fallow and of the tithe and desires a letter to the same that the writer may have part of the house and enter upon the tithe of Rakedale, giving the priest wages reasonable. Desires him to write a loving letter to the prior of Ulvescrofte, who has shown him much friendship, considering the little town of Thorpe is sore vexed with plague, "almost no house free," and he has to reside at Shepished, whilst the prior gives him the wintering of his beasts and anything else he requires. Shepyshed, 9 Jan. P.S.—The priest of Rakedale pays the 13s. 4d. which the house of Canwall used to pay the bishop. Desires a letter to the priest that he, the writer, may enter at Our Lady next.
9 Jan. 53. Bishop Roland Lee to Cromwell.
R. O. I have by this bearer, my fellow More, received your letters desiring to have the "advocation "of a good prebend in my church. I have sent your Lordship, by the bearer, that of Ecclesall, 40 marks a year. I beg you be content "to I may help" my servants and my natural brother. Wales was never in better order; all old factions forgotten. Bryggenorthe, 9 Jan.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Crumwell, lord Privy Seal. Endd.
9 Jan.
R. O.
54. Leonard Yeo, Priest, to Lady Lisle.
Is glad to hear, by Osborne, that she is in good health. Asks her to take into her service a son of his brother, Edmund Yeo, or help him to some service. "I brought him upon a 6 years gone with the abbot of Torre, and now he hath put him away with three or four moo and certain of the canons also." Knows well that lord Lisle lacks none, and supposes he may spare some rather than take any. Likewise masters fall very scant in our parts and servants very plenty. Husche, 9 Jan.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: my lady Lysley.
9 Jan. 55. Charles V. to Aguilar.
Add. MS.
28,590, f. 58
B. M.
The negotiations for peace; difficulties raised by the French about restitution to Savoy and about Milan, although they show good will to the Council and to the offensive league against the Turk. Has offered to go to Perpiguan to facilitate matters if the French king will come to Narbonne; and will make every effort for peace. Has spoken with the Nuncio. Received his letters of 6 Nov., which were much delayed at sea, after those of the 24th.
Spanish, pp. 4. Headed: Al Marques de Aguilar, de Barcelona, 9 de Euero 1538. Modern copy from the Archives of Simancas. [See Spanish Calendar, V. ii., No. 175.]
10 Jan. 56. Castillon to Francis I.
Kaulek, 13. [London], 10 Jan. 1538. Received, Tuesday the 8th, his letter of 30 Dec. Did what he could, as dexterously and imperceptibly as possible, to draw the King to Francis' wishes.
He (Henry) received me differently from his usual and asked if it was true that the Emperor was giving you Milan. Replied that you had not written of it and I knew nothing of the conditions of the peace. He said he had letters from the bp. of Winchester to whom you had said that the Emperor wished to give you Milan and revoke the treaty of Madrid and that you were pressed about the Council, but would defer it until you knew his wishes. He said that as to the last he thanked you, but, for the others, he had his servants and ambassadors with the Emperor and other princes, and knew that the Emperor would neither give up Milan nor revoke the treaty of Madrid. He added that he heard Mous. d'Orleans should marry the king of Hungary's daughter and the Emperor's son your daughter, and that there only was wanting the reply about the Council for peace to be made; and he was sorry you should lose such advantages on his account and would rather you would settle about the Council as you thought good. Replied I knew nothing of these things, but if you had told them to his ambassador I was sure they were true, that it seemed to me he answered me in a different fashion from what I had yet seen him use, and that there was something in it I did not understand; and I begged him to tell it me.
He said so he would—privately; saying he was aggrieved that you would beat about the bush (avoir par ambages) and not approach him frankly.and it seemed that under colour of this Council and thinking to do much for him under pretence that you will not appoint with the Emperor (which is very certain), you wished to make it appear that it was owing to the Council you would not consent, as if to say that it is his fault that you cannot have the peace. He asked what could be treated at this Council. I replied that two princes who rule over so great a part of Christendom would speak not only of their private affairs, but also of the best means to settle the present diversity of opinions among Christians, and perhaps would re-establish the Apostolic See to the best of their power. Said this on purpose to make a show of attack. He said he believed the first, but not the second; for the Emperor had promised him that he would suffer nothing to be said about the bishop of Rome's authority. I said, to come to my charge, what should I inform you as to his intention touching the Council and what should be done there. He said he had sent it you 8 or 10 days ago and could not add to it. I could only reply that he gave me but a cold response considering your affection.
These, Sire, are the sudden changes here. The only reason I can think of is that lie grows boastful when he sees himself sought after by both sides, and is strongly so by the Emperor, or that he does not wish to contribute, or that he relies on the Germans or upon his own money. Would to God you had a good peace with the Emperor! In my opinion ho is more inclined to your side than the Emperor's; perhaps because the Emperor's alliance has cost and would cost him dearer than yours. Indeed, before I left he told me he would like you to make so good an alliance with him that there should be nothing left to redress and that each should speak so openly that the treaties would be sincere and inviolable. Thus he murmurs always of the king of Scots. I reply "You will pardon me if I tell you that you are a wonderful man (un merveilleux homme). What do you want? What do you ask for? I ask you privately what do you wish done to achieve this sincerity?" "You would take me up very short," says he; "the thing is well worth thinking of; but when I know the reply you get from Madame de Longueville we will speak of it more fully." Reminded him that peace or war was being concluded in Languedoe. "Enough!" says he, "I know the peace is not yet ready, though they are both so weary that they would gladly have it." Aid he returns again to his sheep and cannot forget his shepherdess. "You concealed from me," said I, "that you sent a gentleman. What did you find?" "Pardieu! says he, "the knave was too much honoured by being in so honest a place; but he learned what I wanted, which was that she had said she would do as Francis bade her, but she had specified nothing about the king of Scots and, if they had proceeded so far, she thought something should be said to her. Now the King, my brother, will have no excuse to refuse me her in order to give her to this beggarly and stupid king of Scots." It would be tedious to recite our long conversation. Among other things he said that Mons. de Guise should come to Calais to conclude your new alliance; he himself would go thither and if he could see her there it would give him great pleasure. Meanwhile I await the answer to my last letters. He has already been told that you neither ought nor would refuse her to him, and that the saying in the palace is that he shall marry her. He is a wonderful man and has wonderful people about him. I am truly sorry I can find no way of doing you some good service as regards those angelots he holds so dear. But he is an old fox and as proud withal as if the payment were due to him.
French. Extract.
*** A modern transcript is in R. O.
10 Jan.
57. George Lord Cobham to Cromwell.
R. O. Since my last letters two lewd persons, Wm. Thurston and Alex. Boore, reported certain words touching the King which appear worthy of punishment. I send the confession and examination of divers persons thereupon. The words were spoken in the house of John Robyn, of Higham. Cobham Hall, 10 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
R. O. 2. Depositions of Hen. Parkinson, and others, before lord Cobham, against Will. Thurston and Alex. Boore, of Iliglmm, for, about a fortnight before Christmas last, reporting the King's death, and stating that the King had forgiven the Fifteenth, and no more money should be gathered.
P. 1.
10 Jan.
R. O.
58. [Sir] John Sayntlo and Antony Kyngston to Cromwell.
Enclose the examinations of two "light persons," and have put them in ward in the castle of Thornbury. Thornbury, 10 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
ii. Saying of Thos. Skey, of Thornbury parish, Gloue.:—John Blake, of Whittnester, Glouc., said the King was dead, and that he heard it at Dorchester, five miles beyond Abyndon, or rather a neighbour of his heard it; also that it might not be known as they would gather the King's money first. On 5th January, as they went towards the place of Thornbury, Blake asked Skey to be good to him.
Confession of John Blake:—On Sunday before Christmas last, overtook Walter Byrdley on this side Dorchester, as they came from London, who said one he knew not told Simon Bettyrton and him, at Dorchester, that the King was dead. Blake on coming home told Skey and Henry Oliver.
Confession of Walter Byrdley:—Confirms Blake's confession. Simon Bettyrton said to the strange person "Thou naughty knave why sayest thou so? And if thou were in some places thou wouldest be set by the heels."
Pp. 2.
10 Jan. 59. Bishop Roland Lee to Cromwell
R. O. This bearer, John Anderson, my uncle's son, desires to have the keeping of a wood called Shelbatelwood, in the lordship of Anwyke. I beg you to help him: I daresay he has done as hardy service as any of my blood. Brigenorthe, 10 Jan.
Hol. p. 1. Add.: Lord Private Seal. Sealed. Endd.
10 Jan. 60. The Council in the North to Cromwell.
R. O. In favour of Sir George Lawson, who now repairs to the King for the declaration of his accounts, that he may have his despatch the sooner; for he is a great stay of good order amongst the citizens of York, and one of the best skilled men for repairing the castles the King intends to reëdify in those parts. York, 10 Jan. Signed: Cuthbert Duresme—Robt. Landaffe —T. Magnus—Rauff Ellerkar, yonger—Thomas Fairfax—Jo. Uvedale.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.: The president of the North. Sealed.
R. O. 2. Names of the castles in Northumberland belonging to the King, viz., Proudowe, Warkworth, Alnwick, Bamborough, and Warke (position of each described). None of these require any garrison beyond a constable or deputy, except Warke, which stands in most danger and needs repairs.
P. 1. Endd.
10 Jan.
R. O.
61. Ralph Earl of Westmoreland to Cromwell.
Thanks him for his goodness when last with him, and desires him to have him in remembrance. Thanks him for being good lord to the bearer, George Smyth, and asks him to continue so. Brauncepeth, 10 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
10 Jan. 62. Charles V. and Francis I.
Leonard,
n. 403.
"Propositions et reponses entre l'Empereur et le Roi, sur le fait de la paix. A Locate, les 15 decembre et 10 Janvier 1537."
Being the conditions demanded by the Emperor, dated Barcelona, 15 Dec., and the French king's answer to them dated Montpollier, 10 Jan.
French.

Footnotes

  • n1. These last have not the title "master" prefixed to their names.
  • n2. A cross is inserted before each of these names.
  • n3. A cross is inserted before each of these names.
  • n4. Apparently Sir Brian Hastings, sheriff of Yorkshire, who died in his year of office, 6 Aug. 1537. See Inq. p.m. 29 Hen. VIII., No.98. Thus letter was Probably written in Dec. 1537. See Vol. XII., Pt. ii., No. 1235.
  • n5. Word omitted.
  • n6. John Fawne, D.D., according to Cooper, died "about 1519;" but in the "Additions and Collections" it is added, "We now find that he was living in 1525." (Athenae Cantab., i. 22, 525). It is clear that he lived at least 12 years after the latter date.
  • n7. Cromwell.
  • n8. Probably Capon bishop of Bangor who was abbot of Hyde beside Winchester.
  • n9. 29th, in § 2.
  • n10. The body of lord Lisle's first wife.
  • n11. Ric. Pate, archdeacon of Lincoln.
  • n12. The only mention of him in Wood is that he was admitted B.D. in 1544.
  • n13. Of Florence.
  • n14. John Madowell .
  • n15. Held by Dr. John Underhill in 1535. See Val. Ecc. i. 231.
  • n16. Chauntour" qu. Chancellor?
  • n17. John Purchas. See Sir Thos. Trenchard's letter of 5 March, and Shaxton's letter of 4 April following.
  • n18. It was sealed on the 20th May 1538.