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

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

'Letters and Papers: March 1539, 16-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 14 Part 1, January-July 1539, (London, 1894) pp. 206-226. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol14/no1/pp206-226 [accessed 26 April 2024]

March 1539



16 March. R. O.	529. RAFE SADLEYER to CROMWELL.
	The King sends to him Edmond Harvell's letters, and two others directed to him delivered to the King this evening, one from Mr. Wriothesley and the other from Stephen Vaughan. By them Cromwell will perceive what is to be gathered of the Emperor's ingratitude and the cankered hearts of his people declared by outward signs. The King therefore will omit no opportunity of devising bulwarks and other defences. He desires Cromwell to see the musters taken and certificates made; to write to the lord Admiral to make haste in making the bulwarks and preparing the King's ships; and to stay two tall ships "aragosees" (i.e. Ragusan) now in the Thames, to serve him. He intends to send lord Russell into the West country and the earl of Surrey into Norfolk. He desires Cromwell to use all the diligence he can, for his Grace sayeth "diligence passe sence," willing me to write that French proverb unto your Lordship, the rather to quicken you in that behalf. Dover, 16 March.
	He also desires Cromwell to take order for the mending and making of beacons on the sea coast and elsewhere needful.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.: A^o xxx.
16 March. R. O.	530. JOHN, ABBOT OF BURY, to [CROMWELL].
	I have received your Lordship's letters, dated 9 March, declaring the King's pleasure to have my house in London for certain works to be made. I have accordingly sent to my keeper of the said house to wait upon your Lordship and know what he shall do with the furniture. Elmyswell, 16 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Endd.
[16 March.] R. O.	531. HENRY LORD FITZWALTER to CROMWELL.
	In accordance with his letter sends Robt. Watson, to whom he begs him to be good lord. His books show that his demeanor has been good and allowable, and without any intent of sedition. Norwich, fourth Sunday in Lent. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.: A^o xxx^o.
16 March. Titus B. I. 381. B. M. Ellis 1st S. II. 104.	532. SIR THOS. WYLLUGHBY to CROMWELL.
	Has been, according to the King's commissions, in Hampshire, Wiltshire, Dorset, Somerset, Devonshire and Cornwall. Those indicted of treason before him and the other commissioners were found guilty and have suffered. The chief offenders were in Cornwall, Will. Kendall and one Quyntrell, who favoured the traitor Henry late marquis of Exeter, saying he was heir apparent and would be king if the King married Anne Boleyn, or it should cost a thousand men's lives. They retained a great number of the King's subjects for the Marquis, and said "See, how all they do prevail that were towards the said Marquis; for nother assizes, nisi prius, nother bill of indictment put up against them could take effect; and of the contrary part how it prevailed for them." It appeared also that others were confederate, whose names the bearer will give. Committed to ward those in court, and bound them to appear at next assizes. Many have suffered for wilful murders besides those put on the pillory for seditious words against the King and Council. The gentlemen have been diligent in executing the King's commands. 16 March.
	Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
16 March. R. O.	533. E. EARL OF HERTFORD to CROMWELL.
	Has received by Ric. Berde, Cromwell's letter, with two commissions to him and others, which he will not fail to put in execution. Have acted on the previous commission and find that Risebank, Beauchampe Bulwark, and the Search Tower require fortification. Money should be advanced for the work. Are going to view the fortresses at Guisnes tomorrow, and will send a report and estimate. Calais, 16 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
16 March. R. O.	534. THOS. KNIGHT to CROMWELL.
	Was despatched from London about 11 a.m. on Thursday. Came to Dover on Friday 5 a.m., and was forced by contrary wind to tarry all day with Mr. Wootton, Mr. Berde, and 40 others of my lord Chamberlain's and Mr. Wallope's folks. Started on Saturday morning about three, and being without hope of getting to Calais, landed at Whitsande Bay, in Picardy, seven miles off, between five and six p.m. Could not pass Newnam's Bridge so late, and stayed all night at Calsey, at the house of one Bradfyld, a mounted bowman of Calais.
	Heard from him that M. de Guys was gone to Scotland with 6,000 men; the bp. of Rome had furnished France with a like number.
	Folks have removed all their things into Calais, as appeared by their lodging, which was none other than horses have in a stable, but for the fire. Hopes to be with Mr. Wriothesley before tomorrow morning. Calsey, Sunday, 16 March, three a.m.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
16 March. Galba B. X. 74. B. M.	535. JOHN OVER to JOHN DEMOCK.
	Antwerp, 16 March, 1538.—I have received your letter of the 11th inst. about powder and "hackboshis" for the King's service. I have accordingly spoken to Hans Ruckardes, and we can supply from 1,000 to 2,000 "[quintals] of powder at from 4l. to 4l. 16s. st. a kyntell" according to the quality. Three or four months will be réquired, as it must be bought [in] Do[cheland] and brought to Hamburgh or Antwerp. Half hackboshes of the best sort will cost 1...16s. st. each, and there is another slighter sort. The King should send over sea for the goods, for if we are bound to deliver them in England and they were taken at sea by rovers, we could not bear it. His grace must give us 2,000 li. ts. in hand, [and I] and Robt. Colt and Hans Ruckardes will be bound to him. Buckardes has written to Frankforde to know how much can be had in two months. All shall be kept secret. Saltpetre here is dear at 3 li the c^o. About morrispikes and javelins I will write in my next. I have sent three "habardes" (halbards?) to Robt. Lewet for a sample. Cannot send samples of the powder as there is none here.
	I will write by post, as you desire, if I hear of anything against the King, but there is no use in writing every slight fable. Many fear it shall be "feryans" betwixt France and us. "I would all the French doges were hankyd on a gallowz." If all English men were of my mind I trust we could drive the French king out of the strongest hold he has in France, even if the bp. of Rome and all his cardinals took his part. They say here that the Emperor, the bp. of Rome, and the kings of France and Scotland will all go against England. Trusts that all Englishmen are good subjects, and being [so], we will not set by them all. I would go against them to fight with as good a heart as drink when I am dry.
	It is said here that the Grave Wm. Van Vostyng is come to Frankford with 18 or 20 captains to [the] council that shall be held there by the lords of Docheland. They have sent for the Artycke (Herzog) van Cleffe. "And there is come men which [were] not sent from the bishop of Mens, the bishop of [Cologne], and the bishop of Tryar, and this this (sic) be come to b[ear their] consell wather it shuld be with them or ayenst the[m]." The Pallysgrave and the Arttycke van Bayeren, w[ill be] sent for, and some say they will not go. I think they will be there. What the co[uncil] will do no man can tell as yet. There is at M...and Falkyngbrought 30,000 men and George Skynke...captain. Some say they are to go against England, others against the Dew[k] of Cleves and Gilderland. I heard to day that the duke of Cleve should [marry] with the duchess of Milan, but I think it f[alse.] The Emperor must have of the land of Brabant and Holland 15,000 guldens and of Flanders 28[,000] to be paid in two years, professedly for an expedition against Gilderland. The towns are content to pay the money but will not deliver it to the Emperor, preferring it to be placed in four men's hands of their own choosing, that they may see how it is spent, for they will not have war against England.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add.: To his well beloved brother, John Demock, draper...in London.
16 March. Poli Epp. II. 232.	536. CARD. POLE to the CONSTABLE OF FRANCE.
	Since I am compelled to delay my coming to the Most Christian king, (although I did not intend to do so when I left Rome, as I wrote to His Majesty at my departure), I send my gentleman, the abbot of Turnio (fn. 1) in post with letters to His Majesty to explain my tarrying. The vexation of the Church in England, commenced against the priests and then against the people, [has] at length come to the nobility; so that all that armed cruelty and avarice could do against unarmed men has been done in that realm. Nor have the enemies of God stopped here, but have raged against his saints whom the Heavenly Majesty by so many miracles has declared to reign with Him in heaven these 300 years; whose most sacred bodies have been infamously torn from the tomb, burnt, and their ashes scattered to the wind, and they called wretches and traitors in despite of God and His religion. The Pope, considering his duty to the Church, saw there was no time for delay, and seeing the intention of the prince, the author of such enormities, to be no other than the total extinction in that island, together with the nobility, of every ray of true religion (which has been already done in great part, to the great loss of the Church and little respect of the Christian princes its defenders), is therefore determined to publish the censures dae against that [prince], declaring the extreme impiety and wickedness which he practises, under pretext of religion and as defender of it, when he is really a most cruel wolf who seeks only to devour the flock of God. For that cause the Pope sent me to the Emperor and French king, as the chief in the Church, to whom it pertains' (and it is easy for them in their present union) to deliver the Church from this pernicious internal enemy, not doubting but that they would abhor such enormities and be prompt to remedy them. And seeing the Emperor engaged in preparations against the Turk, the Pope wished me to go first to him to exhort him to turn first, together with the French king, to the remedy of the many internal evils of the Church and principally those of England, making meanwhile a truce with the Turk. This was the sum of my commission to the Emperor. If he agreed to it I was to go to the French king, who, the Pope is sure, should be most ready for this holy enterprise; the Pope wishing all to be done by their two Majesties together. I found the Emperor most desirous of it, but not so ready for its execution, alleging on the one hand the war of the Turk, which must be attended to, and on the other the Lutherans, who might be moved to roake greater trouble in Christendom when they saw the affairs of England treated with the severity they deserve. Although, as things stand, he could not attend to that enterprise, yet, knowing my commission was to do the same office to the French king and his Council, he said in conclusion that when the French king, who was not so hampered as he, found some plan they could deliberate more maturely what to do.
	The whole hope of remedying the evils of England and delivering the Church from oppression rests in the king of France, who in this, it is hoped, will imitate his glorious ancestors. Has great hope both in the King and in the Constable, who, as everyone knows, has always exhorted the King to act to the honour and benefit of the Church. The cause of his not coming to the King at this time is that it was expected that the Pope's censures would have been published in Spain before, or soon after, his arrival there, and the same in France, and that things would be ready to be concluded. Now he thinks he must wait for a new commission. Asks his favour to obtain the abbot a good audience. Need not recommend the cause itself as it is so evidently for the benefit of the Church and of France. Girona, 16 March 1539.
	Italian.
17 March.	537. BELL METAL.
	See GRANTS in MARCH, No, 40.
17 March. Titus B. I., 259. B. M. S. P. I. 600.	538. CROMWELL to HENRY VIII.
	Cromwell and others of the Council are earnestly engaged in fulfilling the King's pleasure. My lord Admiral has informed them that he is in haste for his part to fulfil it. He had intelligence that there were no ships of war or preparations in all Normandy; there was but an idle bruit that some were to gather at Brest. He will send thither a bark privily to ascertain. Thinks it is not well to be too easily suspicious. Hearing from Ireland that the rebels Desmond, Byryn, O'Nell, and O'Donell confederate, thinks, "a miracle" of the arrival of the Irish monk, weather driven hither. They were four ships at their departure from Scotland, and three of them were drowned in each other's sight. The capture of this monk will be a great hindrance to the Irish rebels. Cannot yet get the pith of his credence, but will go tomorrow to the Tower and set him in the brakes.
	The commissions for beacons were sent more than three weeks ago. Understands that some sheriffs have done their duty, some perhaps are negligent. Letters for the musters are also sent; their return is no appointed till Easter. The people are all loyal. On the certificates coming in, other letters will be ready for the special aid and number every gentleman will certify. Meanwhile Cromwell and the Council here are busy upon affairs for Parliament. Believes Chappuys will resort to the King to know if his Grace will give him access. Thinks he should have leave to depart, notwithstanding the suspicions of the King's ministers. Three or four hoys laden with merchandise arrived this day from Flanders and they could not for shame detain Wriothesley. Advises the King to write to the Deputy of Calais to let him depart, whether Wriothesley be come or no.
	Has caused the two Raguseys to be staid till the King's pleasure be known and likewise the Venetian at Southampton. The merchant strangers who had their goods in Mr. Gonson's ship to the value of 50,000 marks, wish permission to lade them in other bottoms. The merchants of this town would aventure more of their goods into Flanders, but Cromwell has staid them at the custom house till the King's pleasure be known. Has appointed Mr. Morisson to be one of the Parliament, who will be able to answer men of learning. Hopes to arrange so that the King had never a more tractable parliament. London, 17 March. Signed.
	Add.
17 March. R. O.	539. _ to LORD LISLE.
	The bearer, John Vawhan, has a grant from the King of 8d. a day and should long since have waited upon you, but I caused him to remain with me till I could get some one else to serve me. The Court at Dover, 17 March. The signature is crossed out.
	P. 1. Add.: Deputy of Calais.
[17 March.] R. O.	540. JAMES HAWKYSSWORTHE to LORD LISLE.
	Hopes my lady and all his household are well. My lord Admiral was at Portsmouth 17 March, and the master of the Ordnance and Sir Thos. Spart came to the castle "and aveyd all the bowys and arros," and also looked on the saltpeter which they liked very well. Thinks the saltpeter will be looked to shortly, for the master of the Ordnance took a copy of the indentures "that langys to yt" and made a bill of all the bows. Thinks they will have new bows and arrows and the old cleared out. As far as I can perceive, my lord Admiral is your great friend and you may be sure of the master of the Ordnance. "Sir Thos. Sparte is the same man that he was wont to be, but I do think that he will not trouble the world very long." Advises Lisle to write letters of thanks to my lord Admiral and the master of the Ordnance; "for my Lord comes oft into the country and I would that you would put all us your servants in your absence under him." Hopes it will not be long before Lisle returns.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Deputy of Calais.
17 March. R. O.	541. NORFOLK to CROMWELL.
	Three ships of Newcastle with wool and fells for Flanders lie under arrest in Lowestoft Rode. The factors of the owners have desired Norfolk to release the arrest and he, having no such authority, sends the bearer, one of the factors, to Cromwell. Three Scottish ships with wool, cloth, and skins, two for Zealand, and one for France, are also there and desire release. This morning he received Cromwell's letters by his servant Fulmerston. Is daily petitioned for licence to carry over corn. There is so much in those parts that hundreds of ploughs are likely to be laid up and there are not sufficient "gardeners" to stow it in. Of malt too there is so much and so spoilt with weevils that it is unsaleable. Thinks, if the Emperor will keep promise with the King, barley and malt only should be let pass as long as malt is not above 4s. the quarter. Kenyngale, Monday, 17 March, "going to horseback Northwards."
	In his own hand: "My Lord I require you to grace me no more in your letters, for surely it is not convenient that one of your sort should so do." Signed.
	Pp. 2. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.: A^o xxx^o.
17 March. R. O.	542. WILLIAM LUCY, JOHN GREVYLL AND JOHN COMBES to CROMWELL.
	According to their commission, have examined Sir Robert Mawde, parson of Whatcote, and send depositions of witnesses. Have sent him to the gaol of Warwick, much too little for his deserving. Stretforde upon Havon, 17 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: lord Cromwell, lord Privy Seal. Endd.: Articles against the parson of Watcote for railing words.
R. O.	2. Examination of Guy Powers, Henry Neile, Ric. Chamberlayne, and four others (named) at Stretforde upon Haven, before Wm. Lucye, John Greveyle, and John Combes, commissioners, 15 March 30 Hen. VIII.
	They depose that Sir Robt. Mawde, parson of Whatcote, when declaring the King's injunctions on Sunday 2 March said, "This must needs be conned, for by God's bones I have read this unto you a hundred thousand times, and yet ye be never the better. And it is a matter that is as light to learn as a boy or a wench should learn a balet or a song, and by God's flesh, he swore, here is an hundred words in these injunctions where two would serve, for I know what it meaneth as well as they that made it, for lo it cometh in like a rhyme, a jest or a ballett." ; and said other words disparaging the injunctions. That he received valiant beggars in his house and played cards with them; never published the gospel nor epistle in English; only declared the bishop's injunctions and the King's commandments in abolishing the bp. of Rome's power once, saying that the former were too bard to learn; and as to the latter that there was never a man in Westminster Hall that would for 20 nobles read so much. Signed by the commissioners.
	Pp. 2.
17 March. R. O.	543. THE CITY OF WORCESTER to CROMWELL.
	Urge their suit for the two friar houses. The churches should be pulled down to make towers and "fortytudes" in the walls. Worcester, 17 March 30 Hen. VIII. Signed: "The bayllyffz and aldermen of the cytye of Worcetter and there bretherne."
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
17 March. R. O.	544. SIR MARMADUKE CONSTABLE to CROMWELL.
	Begs not to be removed from his occupation of the tithe of Hayton, for which Cromwell has written in favour of Nicholas Rudstone to the dean of York. Has been tenant two deans' time before till the present dean has lain at a place called Thornton near it, and took it in his own lands. One year he let it to Rudstone at the writer's request, and discharged him again for lack of payment two years ago. Trusts the lord President has certified him of Rudston's "simple proofs" against the writer's servants in a complaint made to the King. York, 17 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
17 March. R. O.	545. OUDART DU BIES to LORD LISLE.
	A French merchant of Bordeaux named Jehan de Verolte, tells me you have stopped his ship laden with rye, after he had paid the dues, and will neither allow him to take away his cargo nor return him his money. I think this strange, considering the friendship between the two Kings, and beg you will release the cargo. Boulogne, 17 March. Signed.
	Fr., p. 1. Add.
17 March. Vitell. B. XXI. 166*. B.M.	546. _ to CROMWELL.
	"... Franckefordiæ gerantur, puto te melius... [A]ngliæ percepturum; ne tamen ab officio... [qu]æ mihi nota sunt indicare. Legati Caesaris (fn. 2)... [conditiones] pacis attulerunt. Sunt autem illic omnes confœ [derati]... onis. Et pacificatores inter Cæsarem et Confœderatos [sunt Comes Palatinus El]ector. et Marchio Brandenburgensis Elector. Postu [lata Confœderatorum sun]t hæc. Primum ut certo declaretur quod causæ religionis... quæ de bonis ecclesiasticis controvertuntur, et quod super eisdem [Curia Cam] eræ nullam ferat sententiam, et quas antea tulit revocentur. [Secundu]m, nt judices Cameræ ex utraque parte numero æquali deligantur, ne [Co]nfœderati etiam in civilibus habeant iniquos judices propter reli[gi]onem." Thirdly, that they may manage the goods of the Church and minister to the churches until the controversy is decided. Fourthly, that other states of the Empire may embrace their doctrine and rites, and that private persons who profess it, may be either tolerated or sent peaceably away. Fifthly, that priests' marriages may be confirmed, and their children have the right of succession. Lastly, that they may have power to settle marriage causes, so that their subjects may not be dragged to other places by strangers.
	These points they demand earnestly, and openly threaten to obtain peace by the sword, if they are not surely granted. I scarcely dare hope for peace when I consider the folly of the Papists. Plots "plus quam parricidiales" made by the Papists against the Confederates, and especially the Landgrave of Hesse, have come to light. Unless the matter is settled I think they will create a new King of the Romans, under whom the Confederates may be safe, and the rest forced to desert the Pope, and discuss religion with them till concord is established, and Germany restored to tranquillity.
	There are two reports about the Turk, and it is uncertain which of them is true. Some say that he has made peace with the Pope, the Emperor, France, and Venice, that the Emperor may the more easily harass the Germans. Others on the contrary say that he is already threatening Christendom, and that the Emperor is seeking peace with us, that he may turn his whole force against him. Nuremberg, 17 March.
	Latin, p. 1. Mutilated.
17 March. Add. MS. 28,591 f. 72. B. M.	547. CHARLES V. to AGUILAR.
	* * * Cardinal Pole arrived. The copy of the letters sent to the ambassador in France will show what passed with him, and will guide Aguilar in speaking to His Holiness. Marriage contracts of Octavio Farnese and the duchess of Florence. Toledo, 17 March, 1539.
	Spanish. Modern copy from Simancas, pp. 5.
	See Spanish Calendar, VI. I. 45.
17 March. Ib. f. 75. B. M.	548. SAME to SAME.
	After writing the instruction which Andalot carries, had a conversation with the Venetian ambassador, who said privately that His Holiness had proposed to devote himself to the business of the Faith and reduction of Germany, and to proceed against the king of England; and the Ambassador suspected the Pope would withdraw from the League, and perhaps, in consequence, the war with the Turk would be left to Venice alone. The Emperor's reply. Dangerous position of Castelnovo. Toledo, 17 March, 1539.
	Spanish. Headed: "Esto se ha de escrebir al Marques de Aguilar y don Lope de Soria." Modern copy from Simancas, pp. 6.
	See Spanish Calendar VI. I. 46.
17 March. Add. MS. 28,591 f. 78. B. M.	549. CHARLES V. to PAUL III.
	Received his letter by Card. Pole, with whom he spoke at large as Aguilar can relate, to whom he has also written his answer about the affairs of the League. Toledo, 17 March, 1539.
	Spanish. Endd: "La carta que escribio a Su Sanctidad de su mano el Emperador." Modern copy from Simancas, pp. 6.
	See Spanish Calendar VI. I. No 47.
Vesp. C. XIII. 260. B. M.	550. C. H. to _
	The Emperor is sending Andelo to the Pope, prince Dorea, and the Venetians, for some business and thence into Germany. He is allowed but 45 days to come and go, when the Emperor will without fail leave for Flanders. Francis presses the Emperor to pass through his kingdom, which the latter does not mean to do, and has sent Andelo to Italy to find some excuse. The Emperor has written to the bp. of "Londes" in Germany, and sent him 150,000 ducats to have all the gendarmerie, horse and foot, ready at Augsburg, and to make good provision of pikes, lead and powder, lest these wares grow dearer at his coming. De Bousse (Beures) is not to let the ships and hulks of Holland leave if they have not already done so, and is to do as prince Dorea shall write to him after the latter has received the Emperor's letters by Andelo. Also the Grand Master, if he has not left, is to remain till further orders. The rest I will tell you when we are together.
	Fr., p. 1.
18 March.	551. THOS. EARL OF RUTLAND.
	See GRANTS in MARCH, No. 42.
18 March. Vitell. B. XXI. 86. B. M. S.P. I. 604.	552. [CROMWELL to HENRY VIII.]
	Has this morning received letters from Chr. Mount and Thos. Paynel, written at Frankfort on the 5th, reporting an interview of Mount on _ Feb. with the duke of Saxony. He promised for the love he bore to the King to do his best to advance "this honest affair," (fn. 3) when he met with the other Princes, whose minds as yet he did not know. He agreed that the matter required speed, and was willing, at first, to send Burgart to Frankfort before the meeting, but seeing he was not known there, thought it better the affair should rest till they met. Mount presses the matter every day, and that meanwhile the picture may be sent. The Duke promised to send it, but said his painter Lucas (fn. 4) was sick at home. Everyone praises the lady's beauty, both of face and body. One said she excelled the Duchess (fn. 5) as the golden sun did the silver moon. The diet is expected to last till the end of this month, and to be at one time with the mart. The electors Paltzgrave and Brandenburgh, with the 'bp. of Londen, the Emperor's ambassador, are endeavouring to make a pacification. The earls of Nassau, Aquila, Will. a Furstenberg, and many French captains, arrived at Frankfort two days ago. Nothing can yet be "diffined" of the conclusion of this diet. Everyone hopes well, but is anxious lest they be deceived or overpowered by the Papists or the Emperor. The Protestant States gave in their petition more than four days past, (fn. 6) but have had no answer yet from the Emperor's commissioners. Mount presses for an honorable embassy, but they feel themselves grieved with the long delays of our Court. Mount reports a conversation between the Duke and the earl Will. a Furstemberg at dinner, about the truce between the Emperor and the Turk, which was reported to be against England. Bernard de Mela was also present. The duke of Cleves is recovered.
	Desires to know the King's mind whether his steward's wife shall return to the lady Mary as desired in her Grace's letter sent herewith. London, 18 March.
	Mutilated.
18 March. R. O.	553. RICHARD COVERT and JOHN MICHELL to the LORD PRIVY SEAL and COUNCIL.
	"Since this letter written," have examined Robt. Wright, who was accused by the "said Hole," named in their former letter. (fn. 7) On Shrove Monday last, at Horsham in the shop of John Sewell, smith, Wright said to Hole that the King would have 3s. 2d. of every burial and christening. He had the word of Margaret, wife of John Ede. Examined the said Margaret, who thought she had heard the priest say so from the pulpit at Okeley church on Shrove Sunday; but she is 60 years old and deaf. Have committed her to ward. 18 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add. Endd.
[18 March.] R. O.	554. W. EARL OF SOUTHAMPTON to CROMWELL.
	Has caused the Little Gallyan to be victualled with beer, bread, flesh, and fish, and appointed Hurry, the most expert master here, to be master of her. She is ready for the persons Cromwell has appointed to go in her. Portismouth, this Tuesday. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.: Admiral.
18 March. R. O.	555. NORFOLK to [CROMWELL].
	Both on my way and since I came hither such importunate suit has been made to me to obtain licence for the enlargement of the restraint of grain that (albeit I wrote to you yesterday therein) I write again for your mediation in obtaining the said release; and, of my yesterday's letters, (being uncertain of their delivery) I enclose a copy. If the King would license malt and barley to pass, it would benefit this country. Lynne, Tuesday morning, 18 March "riding Northwards." Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
R. O.	2. Copy of his letter of 17 March enclosed. See No. 541.
	Pp. 2.
18 March. R. O. Rymer XIV. 637.	556. SHERBORNE ABBEY.
	Surrender (by John Barnstable, abbot, and the convent) of the monastery and all its possessions in cos. Dors., Wilts, Soms., Devon, and elsewhere in England, Wales, and the marches thereof. 18 March 30 Hen. VIII. Signed by John the abbot, John Dunster, prior, and 15 others. [See Deputy Keeper's Eighth Report, App. II. 40].
	Fragment of seal.
	Enrolled [Close Roll, p. 5, No. 39] as acknowledged, same day, before Wm. Peter, King's commissioner.
R. O.	2. Pensions assigned to the late abbot and convent of Shurborne, Dors., 18 March 30 Hen. VIII., viz.:—.
	John Barnstable, abbot, 100l.; John Donster, prior, 12l.; John Herte, alias Raynold, prior of Horton, 8l.; John Paynter, prior of Kydwelley, 8l.; Thos. Cabull, sub-prior of Shurborne, 7l.; John Style, 7l.; Roger Percye, old and impotent, John Buysshoppe, Wm. Vowell, Thos. Ellyott, Gilb. Saunder, John Kynge, and Wm. Crode, 6l. 13s. 4d. each; John Clerke, Robt. Pytman, Augustine Grene, and Barth. Sterte, 6l. each. Signed: Jo. Tregonwell: William Petre: John Smyth.
	P. 1.
R. O.	3. Another copy of §2. Signed by Sir Ric. Ryche.
	P. 1.
18 March. R. O.	557. SPREADING ILL RUMORS.
	Deposition of Agnes wife of Nich. Filer, of Obley, Soms., against Edw. Loxton, of the same town; taken before Henry Capell, knt., Tuesday, 18 March, 30 Hen. VIII., viz. that on "the day prescribed" the said Edward came to her about 2 p.m., called for a pot of ale and remained drinking an hour; that she asked him what news he heard and he said, "We shall have war" and that lord Cromwell was gone away. Also that 2 hours later John Brady, of Obley, servant to Sir Henry Capell, came to her house and called for a pot of ale, and while he was drinking she reported what Loxton had told her; on which he said it was untrue, and that Loxton was a false knave to bruit such things, and he would bring her before his master for it. Signed: Harry, Capell.
	P. 1. Endd.
18 March. R. O.	558. [LORD LISLE] to DU BIES.
	In answer to what you wrote to me touching John Verotte, it is true I gave him leave to load his ship with rye, but as the King my master is at present so near this, viz. at Dover, and has sent hither the Earl of Hertford with a commission to put everything in order, I have requested him to wait five or six days, and if the King objects to his taking the said rye I promise you I will repay him his money. I would do no wrong to any subject of your master. Calais, 18 March.
	Draft. Fr., p. 1. Add.
18 March. R. O.	559. NICHOLAS CARON to LADY LISLE.
	I have today received a letter from Madame de Bours how she wrote to you on the 10th inst.; but as I have not found a carrier to her (pour luy porter) I have sent it (fn. 8) by sea, and I am sure she (elle) received [it] on the 12th inst., and I will send you her certificate of receipt as soon as it comes. Boulogne, 18 March '38.
	Hol., Fr., p. 1. Add.
18 March. Vesp. C. VII. 24. B. M.	560. [WYATT to CROMWELL.]
	"The Monday next after I had despatched Rudston, Pole parted henz but not by post, as I advertised, for he chaunged purpos and went to mete his trayne toward Barsolona, and so into France; whereby both that I wrote of Bramcetour and eny other purpose to be devised in France may have the larger tyme to be suerlier wrought. Syns his departinge I have lerned that, more particulerly then the Emperor's ministers participated with me, the said Pole had devised with them to have brought seven or eight thousande Almaynes into the Lowe Cuntreyes, and abowte foure thowsande Italiens, upon the-foundatyon that the wounded myndes in England, with that fame, might have resourted to them. Of the advises of Levante I sende herewith a dowble, and the, Venet [i] an ambassadour seketh resolution [wh] at the Emperor entendeth in this entrepri [se] . He holdeth them stil in hope, and f [rom] day to day differreth his resoluti [on] , so that yet he hath not declared what he wol resolutely do. It [is] loked for dayly, but it is not lon [g] sins they have begonne to lay ton t [o] tother their charges some thinge ingrately; whiche thinge I take for k [a] lendes of excuses. There is ska [nte] nes of vitalls in Napoles and [in] Scicile to norish or fornish an armie, and a great deale more skantenes here of money to set it forwarde. Th' Emperatrice manifeste dawnger, the evil contented mindes of the greate men here to be lefte behinde him, the forwardenes of the yere, with other thinges that concurre, make me judge that for this yere there is no determination for owt of Spayne. Of Almayne this I lerne, that where the Emperor had promised to th'Almaynes, with the hope of a fre counsel, no comotion to be made for cause of religion, a citie confederat [e] that is called Mynda excluded certayne religions that forsoke to make themselves citisens and departed also the citie under pretextè of the Pope's (?) (fn. 9) exemption, by whi [c] he exclusion the suyte began i [n] the Chambre of th' Empire and the citie condemned and for refusal of the obeyenge put in bando.. imperiale."
	On this (fn. 10) Matthias Held, vice-chancellor of the Empire, has led a practice for a league of Bavaria, duke George of Brandenburg and other bishops and papists, wherein the Pope(?), the Emperor, and the king of the Romans are thought to be, though it is not openly declared. Their pretext is "the dread of the Turk to give upon Bavare." The Landgrave and the duke of Saxony, and all the Protestant League have put themselves in readiness against treachery. A secretary of Matthias, bearing letters and credence (to whom I cannot tell) fell into the hands of the Landgrave, who thus learned all this "trame," and last week hath (fn. 11) sent hither the double of these letters, "bothe" (fn. 12) to show to the Emperor his promise scant kept and to excuse his own preparations. I (fn. 13) wrote these that your intelligences from thence may be conferred with them.
	With much ado the people here have granted 1,200,000 ducats in three years, first payment to be next year. The Church gives 800,000 ducats.
	"The Emperor hath sought this other weke, with the greatest instances in the world, upon the Foulkres to make exchainge for a hundred and fifty thousande ducketts in Almayne, and wold have pledged unto them this nexte paymente of the people; but they have refuséd it upon that pledge. This must be other against the Turk or the Protestantes, or for Geldres, or for the devis [e] of Pole as afore, and that [I] thinke lest of al. The thinges of France I suppose be concluded with the Emperor; for beyonde my frendes secrete advertisemente, that I gader be [s] ides frameth to the same as the ambassadours of France sayenge to a frende of his that al thinges framed to purpos, the Emperor sayeng [e] to thembassadour of Venice that as yet there was no thinge ratified, and Covos' sayenge to the same that there was no suche purpos nor aperence; but sure I suppose there is signature passed, and some thinke that it hath bene sins Aquas Mortis. The Nuncio I knowe hath affirmed it for certayne, but I dare not so surely affirme it; but I beleve it. Yet hath the Emperor sent to fortifie Ast and Verselle, whiche sulde be a token of not delive [ring] Millan; whereby I thinke it be .. only bonde at two or thre yere ende to deliver it, and upon that point they bett longe ago. My secretary is syke and is sk [a] nt hable to write. I have such a payne in my hede that it greveth me to write or rede. This town of Tolledo is dangerou [s] for the hed, and I dare not go owt o [f] it in this time for beinge far from knowleage. Frances the couriour is sike, and I have no man that can do eny thinge. I wold gladly knowe that this came savfly to yower handes. And owr Lorde have yow in his blessed kepinge. At Tolledo, the _ (blank) of March."
	P.S.—"I have promised not to open by writinge to the Kinge a practise that is offerd me for Italy, to kendle there a fier, but by mowth only, nowe at my comminge home; and then shal be tyme ynoughe, for abowte the same tyme the partie doth returne thider; it is of importaunce."
	"Post scripta, xvjth. of Marche. The resolution upon th'entreprise for Levante is passed with the Venetian ambassadour, the Emperor in parson not to go, and that upon the same reasons as I have afore touched; beside that, it standeth in doubt whether there shal be any thinge invasiff attempted against Levant this yere by the Liegue, and for the same reasons. Nevertheles, the Emperor saith, if al the confederates do that they ar bound to, he wol also do his uttermost. This passed in presens of the Nuntio; and when the Venetian ambassadour replied and semed ivil satisfied with this resolution the Emperor laid for his excuse th'untowardenes of the tother, alleaginge that it semed evil towardnes toward this entreprise when the Pope (?) did solicite so gretly th'entreprise against Almaine and England. This was in the face of the Nuntio. They have in this meane tyme practised th'entreprise to be made diffensive, but the Venetian ambassadour refuseth to here thereof, as havinge no commision. They have doubted the evil satisfaction of this ambassadour and have delayed his dispeche, to th'end they may also sende Andalow, which is here in place of the master of the horse, to Venice to declare with faire weder the Emperor's purpos, and the better to hold in the Venetians, who they doubt wol seke accorde with the Turk. The same Andalow hath commissyon to go into Almayne. Whither that be to make men for this enterprice, for the contentation of the Venetians, or whether it be to make them so bileve to passe furth the time, I can not tel, but this morninge I had advise that the Fulcres and the Welsers had graunted to make th'eschainge. Whether that be certaine or no I cannot tel, but I suppose the said Andalow's commission into Almayne be but conditional as occasyon shal rise and offer there. The Venetian ambassadour, not content with this, gott agayne audience without the Nuntio's presence, and in that the Emperor with many faire words, declared unto him that assuredly he would no warre with England notwithstandinge that P. (Pole?) had greatly solicited it, and that he thought the accorde with France shold procede, and that they wer thus farre that (where the Emperor had, for this peax, required of France to entre into this Liegue, to renounce his intelligens with Almayne, and to ayde against the rebelles of the Faith) there hath bene answer made by the Frenchemen that there may be such things purposed that might obtayne part of these things, withought the state of Milan (?) (fn. 14) Wkereupon the Emperor gladly harkeneth and biddeth them purpose. What this device may be without_ (fn. 15) I cannot gesse, but hiderto the Emperor never opened to me any thinge that France solisiteth against us. The practise that is offered me, as I have written afore, is more particulerly declared unto me; and in myne opinion it is excellente and wol go nere, withowt note of the King (?)*to sett these grete frendes both in jelosy, and may fortune furder. I have given my faith not to write it; but have me not suspected that I devise this because I wold come away, for when I am comen I am as ready to go agayne; but it semeth me muche for the Kinges sarvice, and I cannot expresse the thinges I have by writinge. Send therefor my successour hider by the poste. I wol leve him bed, hanginges, stuff, parte of my sarvantes and, if the King so write unto me, part of my plate; so shal he nede no thinge, yet afore the Emperor remove from hens he may have thre monethes leyser to provide. It shal not hurte I suppose to hear me nowe, for me thinketh my hed is with child. I have sought these foure or five dayes, afore I wold close up these, to have had audience with the Emperor to se what I cowld have drawen owt of him, for to have conferred to thes thinges; but I wol no lenger differ this from yow now, and after I shal advertise what I have. And again our Lord have you in his blessed keeping.
	"Againe post scripta xviijth of Marche.—Yesternight and afore these were upclosed the Emperor sent for me to have th' audience that I had desired, in whiche, as withought letters or commission, I declared unt [o] him that this was only to clere me of thinges that I was ignorant in, as wel for the litle intelligence that I had of thinges that passed here as also of that that passed by his ambassa [d] our in England, by whome paraventure he had supplied that that I knewe not, nevertheless I, for my part, could not, for the dewetie of the office that I was in and for his promise alredy, to me passed, but both to desire of him to knowe in what termes the peas stode betwene him and France"_.
	Fragment, pp. 20, the successive leaves numbered "j," "ij," &c. In cipher throughout, all but dates and headings of postscripts. In the paragraphs printed in Roman type a modern decipher is interlined.
18 March. Vatican MS.	561. THE NUNCIO POGGIO to CARD. FARNESE.
	Has received Farnese's of the 12th ult. Details long discussion (in which the Venetian ambassador took part) with the Emperor and his Council about the enterprise against the Turks and the Emperor's coming to Italy. He seems inclined, after the Empress's accouchement, to come to Italy and Germany in September. Meanwhile, having arranged that enterprise of the Levant, as soon as Andalot has left, he will send a despatch into Germany by advice of the French king and counsel of this Duke of Ariscot and the two others who have come from the king of the Romans and the Elector. They will also give Poggio their opinion about the Council and the matters of England. Presses daily for the letters to Queen Mary and the ambassador, but is put off until the despatch of this gentleman. They will then consider the matter, for they wish to do so but are afraid. Knows that if they could manage through Germany, to reduce that perfidious King to obedience they would rather do that than use force; however the affairs of Germany, with which the Englishman threatens them, once settled, "non lo stimarono." Will make all diligence for an early and good decision. Will inform Card. Pole of all and will send to the court of France his letters from Rome, which did not find him here, where he only stayed 15 days. Was grieved to have no longer time to serve so rare a person. Watches the actions, or rather the speeches of this English ambassador and! does not weary in soliciting the Inquisitors in his cause, and has good hope of getting rid of him (levarlo di qui). Lately he has said in public that his King will go with an army into Italy and will have good intelligence there and a great following of Germans. No doubt these are big words, but he has intelligence in Germany with the Lutherans and by means of his money can always make use of them, even though this be a dream and only the malice and ribaldry of this "deslenguato."
	To answer Farnese's of the 12th [ult.] and 27th Jan.:—As to the enterprise there is nothing new: As to Germany and England and the Council, they promise an answer within ten days. The French king and the League and the truce with the Turk. Affairs of Camerino, Ferrara and Mantua and of Madame (the Duchess of Florence). Altercation with Granvelle upon the creation of cardinals. Denies having sought the bishopric of Pamplona. The son of Philip Strozzo. Count Sforza, and other Italian and Church matters.
	Hears now on the 18th that Andalot is leaving. He is to go straight to the king of the Romans, at whose court he shall take the advice of Card. Brindisi and the Nuncio. They will now despatch Dr. Matthias and attend to the rest. Toledo, 18 March 1539.
	Italian. From a modern copy in R. O., pp. 33.
18 March. R. O.	562. CARDINAL SADOLET to the CITIZENS OF GENEVA.
	"The Epistle that cardinal Sadolete, bishop of Carpentrace, sent to the Senate and people of Geneva wherein he laboreth to bring them again unto the obedience of the bishop of Rome." (fn. 16) "From Carpentoract, the 15th calends of April, 1539."
	English translation, pp. 16. See the original text printed in Sadoleti Epistolæ proprio nomine scriptæ, Ep. 321.
19 March.	563. CHARLES DUKE OF SUFFOLK.
	See GRANTS in MARCH, Nos. 45, 57 and 58.
19 March. Vesp. F. XIII. 126. B. M.	564. WILLIAM LORD ST. JOHN to CROMWELL.
	My lord Admiral has taken great pains and put such order upon the sea coast as shall be to the defence of all that (sic) parts; and hath also taken order with your deputy and gentlemen in the Isle for defence if need shall require; and hath further taken order for musters and beacons and left the perfecting thereof with the gentlemen of the shire and me. And for that you be not perfectly ascertained of the King's pleasure, who shall be knight of the shire with Mr. Wriothesley, my lord Admiral hath deferred this next shire day and sent you a billet of names, enclosed in his letters. Upon knowledge of the King's pleasure and yours all shall proceed accordingly. Portsmouth, 19 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal.
19 March. R. O.	565. BISHOP ROLAND LEE to CROMWELL.
	My servant Robert Browne has certified me that I shall have the farm of St. Thomas beside Stafford, (fn. 17) paying your Lordship 100 m. for your labour. I thank you. I desire this for one of the poor children of my sister; wherefore if I might have the farm for 40 or 50 years or to me and my heirs, paying rent, you would do me a favour. I shall pay you 40l. at my entry on the farm, and the rest at Christmas. I bought my lady of Oxford's sheep at Whetyng, which cost me 100 m., and Roland Fowler being in Spain cost me another sum, and this summer I intend to go into Wales; so I am bare of money. Wygmore, 19 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Crumwell, lord Privy Seal. Endd.
19 March. R. O.	566. THE COUNCIL OF THE NORTH to CROMWELL.
	Yesterday three Scotchmen were brought to us. On examination of their safe conduct, of which they say the original is sent by sea, and of their letters, a suspicious letter was found (enclosed) showing that an apothecary and his servant in London are spies, who send news to Scotland. Will write more after the present sitting of the assizes. York, 19 March. Signed by the bp. of Llandaff, Magnus, [Sir] Thomas Tempest, [Sir] M. Constable, Robert Bowis, Thomas Fairfax, William Babthorp, Robert Chaloner, and Jo. Uvedale.
	P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.: Anno xxx^o.
19 March. R. O.	567. JOHN BOTOLFF to GREGORY BOTOLFF.
	My wife and I send remembrances. I have received from my neighbour Holmys, two letters and a bill of remembrance containing much to answer. But first I send William Gardner a letter enclosed. Look on it with some of your friends and seal it before delivery. I also send 24l. by the bearer. I showed you when you first took the fish, that it would return much to my dishonour, and your lack also, and you made very light of it then. Speaks of a coming trial about it at which he will be present. Mentions his brother Sir William. Though you think I had forgotten the matter, neither you nor your friend shall sustain damage by me. You write that my friends are sorry at my simplicity in putting my goods into the hands of drunkards and false knaves. I am much beholden to them, but fear there are few that would not rejoice I had greater loss than I have. I have not yet spoken with my lord of Norfolk's comptroller, for he has not been to Leystoft since your departure, and my horse is in such case I cannot ride, else I would now have come to London about this matter, notwithstanding all my business; for all the strife between Gardener and you arose out of multiplying words for your horse and mine. I have received from my neighbour Colte, three bags with grocery and certain drinking pots, &c., which I send you with 5l. for Mr. Studde.
	Various other matters of business. When the Jesus comes to London, I mean to put a new master in her. Take account of the master of the other voyage to Rouen and let him not meddle with the freight, but take it yourself and pay the men their wages. If you cannot honestly convey yourself to a convenient living, for your own sake and mine I beg you to come home to me, where you may live with me till better things turn up. Leystoft, 19 March.
	The master and company that have taken the Trinity into Iceland wish to be discharged of her, because they hear not of her, and fear she will not come home in time of the voyage. If she be in the road before Easter, she shall go to Iceland, if not she shall go directly to the Bay. "Wherefore make diligent inquisition in Lombard Street for the Burdewys fleet, for there is ever news from all places." If you hear she is any part of England, ride to her whatever it cost me.
	Hol., pp. 3. Headed: "Scriptum anno Domini 1538, decimo nono Marcii. Add.: To my brother Sir Gregory Botolff, at Robt. Legates in Temys Strete at the sign of the Golden Cross. Endd. by Sir Gregory: The ships, the wenche, Mr. Stude, Dr. Thorne, my raiment, my money, my coming home, Dr. Thorneton paid,
19 March. Spanish Calendar VI. I. No. 48.	568. MAIORIS [DEAN OF CAMBRAY] to the QUEEN OF HUNGARY.
	Of his arrival at Calais on Sunday, and his reception by the Deputy and other officers. Could not embark next day, the wind being contrary, and at midnight on Wednesday, when he had got on board, received a letter from Chapuys directing him to remain at Calais till he came, as he had much to communicate. News that Henry has ordered his Grand Esquire to be beheaded, on a charge of conspiring to deliver the castle of Rochafort near Calais, of which he was governor, to the French. The lord Chamberlain, governor of Guisnes, arrived here last Sunday. On the Monday he was received with salvoes of artillery, and preparations were made as if for war. Calais, 19 March, 1539.
19 March. Ib. No. 49.	569. The SAME to the SAME.
	Since he wrote this morning Chapuys has arrived. Has had a long conference with him in which he advised him not to leave for England without express orders. Calais, 19 March, 1538.
19 March. R. O.	570. [MARY QUEEN OF HUNGARY to HENRY VIII.]
	Wriothesley and Carne have told her that the King has recalled them. Has given them leave to depart, and is glad that Stephen Vaughan is left to reside in their place. Brussels, 19 March, 1538.
	Fr. Copy. Endd.: The copy of a letter in French.
19 March. R. O.	571. LUDOVICO PANIZON, Cavaliere, to CROMWELL (?)
	Knowing Cromwell's affection for his brother, (fn. 18) the King's servant, offers his service at Venice where he resides. Serves the Signory with 100 light horses. Letters may be sent to the house of the ambassador of the duke of Mantua. Venice, 19 March, 1539.
	Hol. Ital., p. 1. Add.: Al Illm^o. S^r. el S^r. Gioan Crumllo, camarerc del Serm^o [Re] de Ingliterra, &c.
20 March. Add. MS. 5,705 f. 131 b. B. M.	572. LEWES CHURCHES.
	Decree by Sampson, bp. of Chichester, for uniting the church of St. Peter in Lewes with that of St. Mary Westout. Aldingborne, 20 March, 1538.
	Latin. Modern copy, pp. 2.
[20]March. Otho E. IX. 69. B. M.	573. WILLIAM EARL OF SOUTHAMPTON and WILLIAM LORD ST. JOHN to [CROMWELL].
	* * "stay the Venetian, and ... why she is so staid may appear ... indifferent and honest. I therefore hav[e] ... sent for the patron, determined to tell the ..., forasmuch as the ship being in Hampton ... lieth in danger, and may be lightly [got] out thence by some Spaniard or Frenchman [and] so be lost, that mine advice shall be to b[ring] her into this haven, where she may lie in ... without danger. And whether the said [patron] will agree hereto or not, I purpose nevert[heless] to send masters and mariners to conduct h[er here], and here to keep her till his ambassador h[ave] sued unto the King, and obtained licence [to] release her; which I wol not do without express commandment from his Grace."
	Went with my lord St. John on Tuesday to the sea, to view Hampton Water, Calshotespo[ynt] and the Isle of Wight: and coming onward to the said [Hampton] Water, we espied a Spaniard that passed before us under all her sails and at last lay at anchor before Newport Road. A crayer made towards her and the Spaniard put out a boat and took her aboard. Suspecting that the Spaniard had stolen some grain or goods not customed, or else "brought with them some false ... * * * And having taken a vi[ew of] our platt for the tower at Calshotispoyn[t, we] took our boats and made all haste we c[ould] towards, the said Spaniard, utterly minded to know what was done." The crayer, seeing us row towards them, made away. Then the Spaniard let slip her anchor and made all sail to get away too, but the wind failed her. We divided our boals coming nearer, "making countenance that they should yield," but they proudly manned their top, as who should say "Come and you dare." This stirred my choler something, and although it was rather dangerous to go on (for the Spaniard had ordnance and we were in three ships' boats with only two or three handguns) our men's stomachs were good, and it was too nigh to go back. At length, when we were even at hand, she struck sails. We boarded her and allowed none but honest masters and mariners to enter, that nothing might be taken from the Spaniards. Found in her one James Privet, of Southampton, merchant, "and 30 quarters * * * [Spani]ards ... [e]ven than bu ... [t]ooke him and the master ... ze (?) mariners mo with me to N[ewport Road and] caused the ship to be brought to [the said] Newport Road. This done I we[nt to] Estur Cowe and devised a tower th[ere, and] from thence entered into the Isle of Wight, [and] so rode on to Newport, and to the cast[le, (fn. 19) and.] beheld and viewed the same, and so came we to our lodging, whereafter sow[per we] called the said merchant and Spaniards a[fore us]; and first examined the merchant from w[hence] he brought the said wheat, and whether it [was] customed or not." He answered that it was brought from Hampton quay and was uncustomed, and that he had paid it to the Spaniards for certain iron that he b[ought of] them. We then called the Spaniards and asked them whence they were, why they came into this water, what merchandise they brought in, where they had sold it, and to whom, and what they received for it? They said they were from St. Sebastian, and came to Hampton with iron, which they entered in the custom house there and sold to Jas. Privet, who promised them 200 qrs. of wheat, partly for it and partly for money ; of which those 30 qrs. were part. "We axed * * * [c]arieng ouzt merchandise him ... are bound to pay custom of dl ... carry. They answered yea, they knew [the King's] laws. And being examined whether [they] had customed the iron that they brought [in] and the wheat taken out, they answered that for the iron they had paid custom" and that Privet agreed to discharge them of custom-for the 200 qrs. of wheat. The customer confirmed their statement as to the iron, and Privet could not deny the agreement as to the wheat. As we also found on the Spaniards 200 ducats which they intended carrying back with them, when they were not entitled to carry more than 40s., I told them they had forfeited both ship, money, and goods to the King; and we did them no wrong if we confiscated the same, considering how cruelly their nation in the last war between them and France had treated the King's poor subjects, "pilling them to their shartes and hanging them by the members * * * [here]tiques and Lollardes ... worse could be, contrary t[o all] charity and the league betwe[en our prince] and theirs. Howbeit I said I [would not] altogether use them after their own ... and rough manner, but with more ... which they should never find to fail [here] as long as they kept the league with the [King] our sovereign lord," and paid their customs according to law. But that if they did the contrary, "though [they] reported at home that one of us agreed [not] with another, they should find us head and feet agreeing together, and every man, both prince, noblemen, and commons ready and quick enough to defend our said sovereign and his realm if they attempted to molest or invade the same : praying them to declare that I said this unto them when they come home. The which they promised to do. And so, because they yielded that their goods were forfeited and * * * payment for their said iron, [ I let them g]o free, saving that I took fr[om them] ... the wheat but five quarters, which ... likewise in part of their said payment, [and] also I bound them to bestow their said mon[ey] in cloth and other convenient things or they departed hence; which they were content with and this day performed the same." I have ventured to give the rest of the wheat (of which half is the King's, and the rest ours that seized it) to the masters and mariners in our company for their pains in rowing us and for their courage.
	Was informed on Wednesday after mass that a Fleming was lading corn from the Isle of Wight at St. Elane's Point. Caused John Chadreton and other of his folks to repair thither; who finding it true took the ship, which is of Newport in Flanders, "and her * * * water twice within ... and at the first time did ... out, and now would have ca ... whereof 5 quarters were found in h[er of] malt and barley, all uncustomed ... at this time, half the merchandise ... he brought hither be not custome[d]. Wherefore I have declared my mind [to] him much after my manner used to [the] Spaniard, and intend to detain him till he have made amends for all." As the party who delivered him this grain and promised him much more is at home and not yet examined, I intend to send for him and bring him and the merchant of Hampton together [with] me to the King. As this has happened before my own face I suspect there is much deceitful packing often practised to the King's loss.
	As to what we have seen, devised and considered where we have been, "we have viewed Calshotispoynt, and [it is] of such sort th[at if it please the King's] Majesty to do cost th[ereupon] ... Hampton Water, that no man s[hall come nigh] there, ne in the road anenst (?) [for peril of] his life. And where he that ride[th by] St. Elaines Poynt wiche stond[i]th [at] the East end of the said isle, having an easterly wind, must needs come unto th[e] tone of the roads called the Esturly or the Westerly Cowe, or into Hampton Water or Portsmouth Haven for succour, or else die; which ij Cowis lie, the tone on the tone side, and the oodre on the toodre side of Newport havon, for an enst the said Calshotes Poynt, we have devised a tower to be set there; which two towers shall so strengthe all that quarter of the Isle of Wight and Hampton Water that none shall lie there in rest, neither come to any road or channel thereabouts, unless he come in or go out at the Needles, where there is already a tower standing of the late Sir James Wurseley's making; wiche is one of the worst devised things that I have seen, and therefore have we thought necessary to have the same transformed. This tower stoudith even anenst an herd sand called the Hurst, lying on the other shore, where it is not passing three miles over and the water * * * ng for shippes but ... whereof lieth within the s[aid] ... towre, and the toodre herd by th[e said] Hurst. So that there also we [have devised] a fourth tower to be made, wich [shall be] wonderfully well defended by the [country] adjoyning, wich is part of Hampshire and very populose. Between these ii[ij] towres and in their daunger must a[ll] men lie and be that odre come [in or] goa ouzt, odre at the tone end of th[e] Isle or the toodre, that is, odre at Sa[int] Elane Poynt or the Needles. Elles [is] there no road for shippes by reaso[n of] great rockes, sands, and shalowis, th[at lie] everywhere, saving at the said St. E[laynes] Poynt and an oodre place called Has[lar] and yet neyther at any of those places [unless] the wind be westerly; so that I am well assured that none enemy shall [do] any feat or enterprise thereabouts, but [to] his own confusion and distress, unless it be an army royal, like as by the plattes devised, as well of the said towers as of the sea and shores adjoining, wich I woll bring with me, the Kinges Majesty and you and the Council shall perceive. And also I woll bring with me an estimate of th'ole worke as nie as it oan bee caste, and further wol * * * [rec]ken wolbe on Tiews[day] ... the rest of our charge committed ... touching the bekinnage as th ... the best of our poor wits."
	Will see what he can do about the burgesses of Farnham, although he fears my lord of Winchester, when there, has already moved men after his own desires. If he can do anything, means to advance one Mores of Farnham and some other honest man for that town. As Cromwell wishes some other elected in the place of Mr. Kingesmel, along with Mr. Wriothesley, has spoken with my lord St. John, who will do his best. Encloses a schedule of the best men of the country picked out by them, that Cromwell may pick whom he would have chosen. Has thought best to defer the election "till the next county day * * * ... ing the first writ ... nightes the first county day ... an newe write agaynst the ... so that the sheriff shall save his ... notwithstanding this delay. And ... for Surrey I shall accomplish y[our, pleasure] in Mr. More, unless your lordship [fix] upon some oodre betweene this and the[lection] wiche is also deferred there til the [said] later county day."
	The people of the Isle of Wight are all both gentlemen and other well minded to defend their country, and make themselves daily more ready, saying they will stake their coasts and cast their ditches a[new] towards the low water mark that when enemies land it shall be dangerous to them. They will also make their bulwarks stronger, "and keep their beacons they have set up already on every hill right well." Commends particularly the captain both for seeing these things set forward and for his hospitality to themselves when there.
	"I thank your good lordship for your news * * * alacrity of my sov ... [t]ravaylenge aboutes and ... thinges as be to his honor and the ... of his realme, as also for that thorough [the] inestimable bounty of God shewed upon his Gr[ace] and us his subgietes suche traytours arre at lengthe knowne manifested and apprehended that still so maliciously conspire and repigne against his astate, dignity and gracious proceedings." Hopes ere long all such maligners will be punished for the tranquillity of the realm.
	My wife is proud to hear that your lordship will help to deliver her of the lady of Sarum. "I was fain to take her with me to Portsmouth, for in nowise would she tarry behind me, the said lady being in my house." Apologies for the length of this letter. Portsmouth, Thursday, "the x[x day] of March."
	Has sent more cockles of Shelsay which are not quite so good as they would be at the full of the moon. Signed.
	Mutilated, pp. 13.
[20] March. R. O.	574. ANDREW BAYNTON to CROMWELL.
	I beg you will take no displeasure for my long absence nor for my departing ; for, when your Lordship rode from St. James's to the Court, my fellows told me that I was not appointed to ride with you, not having your livery. Considering how long you would be absent, I went to see my friend Master Hyde who was like to die of his wound. (fn. 20) The matter was before your Lordship not long ago, and he is bound to pray for you. I lost my way on the Downs beyond Reading and caught a great cold and ague which has just left me. My father (fn. 21) is sore displeased and threatens to disinherit me, which I think I never deserved. He cast me away for heing absent from you, which was more a fault to you than to him. Is at Cromwell's commands, and as obedient a child to his father as can be. Compton, Thursday before the Annunciation of Our Lady.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
20 March. R. O. Rymer XIV., 638.	575. MONTACUTE PRIORY.
	Surrender (by Robt. Shirbourne alias Whitlocke, the prior, and the convent) of the house and all its possessions in cos. Soms., Wilts, Dors., Devon, and elsewhere in England and Wales and the marches thereof. 20 March 30 Hen. VIII. Signed by Robt. Gybys alias Whytelocke, prior, and 18 others. [See Deputy Keeper's Eighth Report, App. II. 32].
	Seal defaced.
	Enrolled [Close Roll, p. 3, No. 9] as acknowledged, same day, before Wm. Petre, King's commissioner.
R. O.	2. Pensions appointed to the late prior and convent of Mountacute, Soms., by John Tregonwell, Wm. Petour, and John Smyth, the King's commissioners there, one quarter's pension to be payable at Lady Day next, and subsequent payments to be half-yearly, viz.:—.
	Robt. Whitloke alias Gibbes, prior, 80l. (with a mansion place in Este Chinocke which he himself built); Robt. Warrener, subprior, 12l., John Cogan, 8l., Thos. Tawnton alias Chiswaye, 7l., Thos. Hamme, 7l., Wm. Dyer, John Crybbe. John Webbe, John Clerke, prior of Malpace, Robt. Briande, and Laur. Herforde, 6l. 13s. 4d. each; John Walles, prior of the cell of Holme, to serve the cure of Holme and have 8l. "and if he happen to be impotent or lame then he to have yearly for his pension, 6l. 13s. 4d."; Wm. Wynter, John Palle, John Symes, 106s. 8d. each; Wm. Crise, 100s., Wm. Rogers, 4l. 13s. 4d. Signed by Cromwell and the three commissioners above named.
	P. 1.
20 March. R. O.	576. SIR CHR. JENNY to CROMWELL,
	Hears that the abbot of Whitby, to the demesnes of which Cromwell has preferrred him, has sold some of the great cattle and sheep, and has made many secret leases, for fines, and grants of annuities, and now intends to make suit to Cromwell for liberty to sell plate and goods for payment of his first fruits, though it is thcught he already has ready money for it. The North parts are in good stay and quietness. After the assizes at York, "my brother Hynde and I" are appointed to tarry there with the Council, "as long as our time will serve us." York, 20 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
20 March. R. O.	577. ANTHOINETTE DE SAVEUSES to LADY LISLE.
	As soon as I had received this packet, I sent it to the hostelry where I thought the merchants of Calais passing through this town lodged most frequently, requesting them not to deliver it to any but known persons, but for want of a safe messenger the hostess has detained it 10 days. I would have sent a messenger of my own, but always hoped you would have had it. I am ashamed of the delay. By the writing of the superior, I find the bonnets I now send are 8 sous each for men and the two dozen amount to 15fl. 12s. The three dozen coifs de femmes amount to 15 florins and 54 sous at 6½ sous each, as sold in their monastery. Total, 30 fl. and 66 sous, Flemish money. The last half dozen which remains to pay, is of the first price that you used to pay. Does not wish Lady Lisle to throw away her money on what is useless to her. Dunkirk, 20 March.
	Hol., Fr., p. 1. Add.
	ii. Memorandum on the back in the hand of Lady Lisle's clerk:—Two dozen for men at 8 s[ous] the piece, mounteth to 32 s[hillings], Flemish; three dozen for women at 6 s[ous], 1d. le pece, mounteth to 39 s[shilliugs], Flemish; ½ dozen at 5 s[ous], 1d. le pece, mounteth to 5 s[hillings], 6d., Flemish.
	Summa totalis, 3l. 16s., Flemish.