Henry VIII: May 1543, 16-20

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 18 Part 1, January-July 1543. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1901.

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'Henry VIII: May 1543, 16-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 18 Part 1, January-July 1543, (London, 1901) pp. 324-335. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol18/no1/pp324-335 [accessed 25 April 2024]

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May 1543, 16-20

16 May.
Dasent's A.P.C. 132.
558. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 16 May. Present: Canterbury, Chancellor, Russell, Hertford, Lisle, Winchester, Westminster, St. John (lord Chamberlain), Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Paget, Dacres. Business:—Commission sent to Sir Wm. Estsex and Alex. Umpton to enquire into alleged unlawful exactions by Chr. Assheton, of Berkshire, at the musters. Letters written to Mr. Stanhope to keep four or five of the best Frenchmen at Hull and dismiss the rest; and to Suffolk in favour of Jas. Wierstrop, sent by merchants of the Steelyard into Scotland to recover a ship taken by Frenchmen and conveyed thither.
16 May.
R.O. St P., ix. 377.
559. [The Privy Council] to Seymour And Wotton.
The lady Regent of Flanders has made an imposition of 1 per cent. on all merchandise exported, and has made suit, through the Emperor's ambassador, that, although contrary to the leagues, our merchants may be charged with it, lest their exemption should cause others to grudge, and considering that it is only imposed during the war. Albeit the Ambassador was precisely answered that the King would nowise suffer any precedent so expressly contrary to the leagues, she has stayed the merchants' goods and eftsoons written to the Ambassador to renew the suit. He has had as precise answer as before; with the addition, in general words, that, as the imposition is for defence of Andwarpe, wherein our merchants have great substance, they will do some gratuity, but refuse the imposition as an example prejudicial to the leagues. What the merchants will offer has not been said.
Now upon the complaint of our merchants of the distraining of their goods and returning of their ships void, which engenders pernicious rumours, conferring first with the governor of our merchants, who is appointed to repair to you, you shall declare to the Queen their complaint (with the causes which move the King not to suffer the imposition) and how it "might alienate the minds of our merchants, who have been ever of good devotion to those countries"; inducing her with good words to release the imposition speedily.
Draft in Gardiner's hand with corrections by others, pp. 5. Endd. : Mynute to Mr. Seymour and Mr. Wotton, xvjo Maii ao xxxvo.

R.O.
560. [The Privy Council] to Seymour and Wotton. (fn. 1)
The Governor and Merchants Adventurers complain to the King that the Queen Regent of Flanders charges them with a new imposition of 1 per cent, on merchandise exported, and has stayed their ships. The said Governor is appointed to inform you of the circumstances; and you shall then declare to the Regent how, by a former treaty between the King and the Emperor, no new impositions are to be set upon subjects of either; and that now, when the said treaty has been "very lately" confirmed and a straiter bond of amity knit, the King marvels that, "at the first entry," she would suffer anything to be passed there to the injury of his subjects, derogation of the treaties, and "defacing before all the world" of the special amity just concluded. You shall desire her "to discharge incontinently our said merchants of the said injust imposition" and forbear hereafter to minister such matters of pique and quarrel; the King requiring you to handle this matter so that our merchants may enjoy their liberty, and to show gently, that although the King "thinketh some unkindness in this her strange proceeding" it will be forgotten. The Emperor's ambassador has been spoken with in this, and writes letters to her which you may deliver.
Corrected draft, with commencement and corrections by Paget, pp. 4. Endd. : Mynute to Mr. Seymour and Mr. Wotton touching the Merchants Adventurers.
16 May.
R.O.
561. Richard Broke, of Broxtowe.
Bill of receipt 16 May, 35 Hen. VIII., by Ric. Broke of Brokkestowe, Notts, from Sir Nic. Strelley of Strelley, of 4l. 5s. 8d. for all past rents of his closes in Brokkestowe. Signed with a mark.
P. 1. Sealed : W.F.
16 May.
R.O.
562. Wallop to the Council.
Wrote yesterday how De Beez, De Kerkey and De Carres with their bands and 1,500 footmen of Boullonoyes were coming to Fynes for an enterprise in Bredenerd. Sent an espial to Daverne to learn particulars, who was there when the Burgundians beset the town, wherein the said 1,500 footmen were that night lying, most of whom are killed or taken, the town burnt and the castle taken by assault. The Burgundians number 18 ensigns of foot and 1,500 or 1,600 horse, the Great Master being there in person with divers great pieces of ordnance. De Carres who lay at Waist, 2 or 3 miles off, repaired to the rescue and took some scatterers or (according to another report) lost some of his own band. From thence the Great Master went to Werwyn and burned it, and also Wast and other villages. They of Chamer de Boiez sent a trumpet to compound with him. To-day he is returning towards Liskes, intending to destroy the fortress of the abbey and the castle of Allombomme, having laid his ordnance by the way before a church called Zellez. Thinks he will afterwards come to the peels before Arde. These doings leave little hurt to be done to the Boullonoiez, unless beyond the river of Marguyson towards Bullen and the sea side. De Beez "was glad, the same night he should have lain at Fyennes, to lie at Bullen," to which most dwellers in Base Bullen repaired. Guysnez, 16 May. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : ao xxxvo.
16 May.
R.O. St. P., IX., 379.
563. Seymour and Wotton to Henry VIII.
On Monday evening after Whitsunday President Score came to them, and, upon receiving Henry's letters, gave thanks for them, but said they were unnecessary, seeing that the amity with the Emperor bound him to Henry's service. He said that, though the Queen had communed with them the day before of the truces between the Emperor and duke of Cleves and had sent a copy to Chapuis, she wished them to see the original; and he laid it down before them. The first seal hanging at it was Granvele's, the second the Duke's signet (put on by his commissioners); and it was also sealed by the commissioners of the electors of Coleyn, Mentze, Saxony, Palatine, and Brandenburg and of the duke of Wertenbergh and town of Strazeburgh. The truces seemed honorable for the Emperor, who was to continue to possess what he withheld from the Duke and receive the town of Syttart in pledge; and the term was from the 10th inst. until the Emperor's arrival in the first town of Germany and for two months after, or longer unless the Emperor declared to the contrary. The Duke's commissioners have advertised the Queen that the Duke thinks the truces not "commodious for him" and will not observe them. Score then said that the Queen had been hindered, by the feast and by an attack of gout, from answering the matters of which they spoke in declaring their credence.
Next day, Tuesday, Score and Mons. de Currieres came from the Queen to say that she was glad to see Henry so willing to go through with the war against France this year, and that, if they would declare what number of hoys, carts and lymoners he required, she would appoint them (having already sent to all officers to certify what number could be made) and make the prices of them and of victuals reasonable. Seeing that they omitted important matter, the writers repeated the whole to them, viz. that Henry consented to the main invasion this year, provided that Chapuis were shortly commissioned to conclude upon the places of entry, &c., and that, as much time had passed, Henry required her opinion whether these things were feasible this year. They said that they must learn the Queen's pleasure; and, this afternoon, returned with her answer, viz., that the bp. of London had moved the same things to the Emperor in Spain, who had answered that, when he arrived in Italy and heard from Granvela the state of affairs in Germany and Italy, he would determine what to do; and she could make no answer yet for she had no certain news of the Emperor's arrival in Italy.
The siege of Hensbergh continues. A gentleman in Gylderland, named Here van Welle, who last year served the French with Marten van Rossheyms, has promised the Prince of Orange to sit still and meddle no more. Wrote that the captain of Gravelynes said that he would redeliver the piece of silver taken from Guindelfinger. The captain afterwards wrote that he had letters from the Queen not to deliver it without her command; and the writers thereupon moved her, and she is content to write to the captain to redeliver it, as it is for Henry. Brussels, 16 May 1543, 11 p.m. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.
16 May.
R.O.
564. Seymour to Henry VIII.
Has spoken with a gunfounder in Makelen, who asks for the making of small pieces 6 fl. (which is 15s.) the cwt., and says that the cwt. of metal will make two pieces and cost 14 fl., that he cannot begin before Midsummer, when he will have finished pieces which he has in hand for the Emperor, and can make about 500 by Michaelmas. Requires, if he is to deal further, that one of the pieces that Peter Bawde made may be sent to Adwarpe. Brysselles, 16 May. Signed.
P. 1 Add. Endd. : ao xxxvo.
17 May.
Dasent's A.P.C., 133.
565. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 17 May. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Russell, Hertford, Admiral, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Paget. Business :—Two commissions stamped for Ant. Auchar to take up wood for Calais in all places nigh the water side in Kent and Essex. Letters sent to the abp. of York to stay disposing of the stewardship of Hexham, and grant it to the King's assignment; to Auchar touching the said wood; to the mayor of Cambridge to repair hither on Friday fortnight; to the Deputy and Council at Calais for restitution of Sir Thos. Palmer's goods, remaining with Sir Ant. Knevett and others since his apprehension; and to Wallop, to know what forage and horsemeat he could furnish if the King sent over 600 horsemen.
17 May.
R.O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 139.]
566. Chapuys to the Queen Of Hungary.
On the 11th inst. received hers of the 1st, and, two or three days earlier, those of the 7th. As this King was busy about the conclusion of his Estates and other affairs, could not communicate these letters to him or his Council; the King praying him to defer until these holidays last past, when he would have more leisure and would lodge him at Anthoncourt. Was thinking to go thither when taken with a flux, which has kept him these four days from going. Would go to-day but thinks that the King would be more pleased with his coming on the Sunday. Expects in two hours to know the King's wish, and will thereupon either depart at once or defer till Sunday. Writes this in order that she may not be annoyed with his slowness, and that he may send back one of the two couriers, who may be needed there.
As to the first article of her letter of the 1st inst., concerning the battle before Zitart, will fulfil her command.
As to the second, the King should make his meaning plainer in divers particulars, and he has had the opportunity; but at his last declaration about it he let it be known that he did not like being sought therein, and Chapuys refrained from pressing him, considering that he might be annoyed and that it would be better to leave the said particulars until he had put himself to some notable expense in making his preparations. On the two principal points he has declared openly, viz., that he wishes to make the enterprise at the time written, and to make it separately, as Chapuys has twice written. True it is, since she asks his advice, he thinks the English do not go hotly enough to the provision for such an enterprise, although the Council tell him that they are sending victuals and men over sea, and prayed him twelve days ago to write to Dunkerke for four or five hoys to carry munitions and artillery to Calais. Another thing which might put aside the enterprise is that the King will want to have an enterprise against the Scots, who will not accord him their daughter within two years as he demands (but only when she shall be ten years old) and will not confederate absolutely against France, although condescending to renounce their alliances and treaties with France and to remain neutral, with power to serve either prince; and the King would rather move war now than give them leisure to provide themselves with friends and munitions. As it will be difficult to furnish men for both enterprises, will suggest the King's contributing half the expense which the Emperor makes; and will do his best to learn the important particulars, and especially to satisfy her as to the third article of her said letters. The assistance of the 2,000 horse and 2,000 foot is capitulated so clearly in ease of the common invasion that he is astonished that any doubt should be put therein, especially when the Emperor is bound to the said assistance in no other case; besides which, the King wished absolutely for a promise of the assistance defensive at the same time against the Scots, in recompense of the promise made him by the treaty of Windsor touching his pensions. As to victuals, has written how the King intended to send them to Calais and, keeping near the sea, to be refreshed by his ships. There is no danger in the delay of equipping the ships, provided that they are ready at the time capitulated. She may require the King's assistance, by virtue of the treaty, when she pleases, seeing that by Sunday next he will have sworn and ratified the treaty, being very much pleased at the news of the Emperor's ratification of it received on Ascension Day by one of his messengers (but of the other and of Chapny's man nothing is yet known). Will not omit, meanwhile, to speak of the said assistance and of his declaring the duke of Cleres and his subjects enemies, to which he will be more inclined in view of the Duke's refusal to observe the truce, of which she writes. Has prepared arguments for the impost of the centiesme and will do his best to sustain it. The King's pretext for refusing passport for the wines was that he supposed the licence to have been obtained by false suggestion, and that so much money should not go to the French, and that his subjects whom he has licensed to recoup themselves upon the French would be dissatisfied; and he does not mean to hinder French merchandise going into Flanders in other vessels than French. For example, his ships lately took three or four Portuguese going into France on behalf of the Guichardines for the said wines and woad, and he at once ordered them to be released. Since war is on the point of being declared and the merchants will have provided other ships, there will be no need to make too great instance for it.
Of the three Scottish ambassadors who were here two are returned, and an earl (fn. 2) and the brother of the earl Douglaz are hourly expected as ambassadors from the Estates of Scotland. The Cardinal there is liberated, and remains on his benefice without coming to Court. He has several times desired to speak with this King's ambassador there, to justify himself towards the King, but, not to incur the suspicion of the Governor and his party, the King would not permit it. Hears that certain French ambassadors are arrived in Scotland, with the nephew of the late Mons. de Aubigny, who has charge in France of 400 lances and calls himself of the house of Stuarde. With the favour of the Cardinal and the ecclesiastical faction, which is very active (vice), he should be able to trouble the Governor, who, to diminish the authority of the ecclesiastics and animate the people against them, permits these new sects to preach.
Duke Philp of Bavaria has been here these ten or twelve days. The King and Council are surprised at his coming, and especially at his having been here about eight days before the King was informed of it. He spoke to the King on Tuesday last after mass, at some length, and was well received, as also was a count whom he brings with him, besides whom he has only four or five servants. Here are also arrived two Italian captains, one of them the count of Sainct Boniface, who have quitted the French service and come to present themselves to this King's.
Eight days ago two of the King's ships took a French ship going to Scotland with wines. It was well that the English were two, for the Frenchman would have carried off the first that boarded her. For a long time no ship has made better defence. Not until eight men out of thirty were killed and the rest all mortally wounded would the Frenchmen surrender. The ambassador of France is greatly displeased, and, if he had not been unwell would have gone to make great complaints to the King. London, 17 May (corrected from April) 1543.
French, pp. 7. Modern transcript from Vienna.
17 May.
R.O.
567. Suffolk to [Parr].
Has received his letter dated yesterday, at Newcastle, with copy of the Governor's command to Bothwell "for making reddress of Lyddisdale according to the truce." Returns the copy, with advice to send it to his deputy on the Middle Marches, to be declared "to the warden on the Middle Marches or his deputy," and a day of truce appointed. As for redress for the rest of the Middle Marches, seeing that "there is more harm received by us than done," it is best to make full redress and receive the like, not stopping for Lyddisdale. As to the sureties bound for John Heron and his son, you have taken a good order. Pray show Mr. Uvedale that, now, I discharge him of the keeping of John Heron. Since the ontlaws have refused to speak with Jerry Charlton, let him make no further practice with them; for if all proceed well betwixt the two realms they will shortly repent their proud refusal. I "much allow" the answer Mr. Eure made, by your advice, to the Nycsons, Elwoodes and Crosiers; for thereby they shall not avoid answering according to the truce. The Northumberland men who complain against Tyndale and Redisdale should be shown that, having been so slow to rise for each other's defence, the King has been fain to lay garrisons for their safeguard; and, as the King's pleasure for punishment of evil-doers has been written for, they should take patience till the answer come. It should be laid sore to their charge that, in case they do not rise better to their neighbours' defence, the King will look otherwise upon them; and, where they would have their offenders punished, it seems that they are weary of ease and would stir evil doers to harm them. Darnton, 17 May.
P.S.—Had appointed to be at Gretham on Monday next, but has now deferred it till Tuesday come sevennight "when the horse running shalbe."
Pp. 2. Fly leaf with address lost.
18 May.
Dasent's A.P.C., 134.
568. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 18 May. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Russell, Hertford, Admiral, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Paget. Business :— Letter sent to John Fletcher of Rye to dismiss three Flemish ships with wines from France and henceforth to stay none of the Emperor's subjects; to Mr. Sadlair to agree the earl of Casseilles and sheriff of Ayre; to the President of the Marches of Wales, &c., touching the contention between the earl of Worcester and lord Ferrers about musters. Recognisance (cited) of Arnold Butlar, of Pembrokeshire, to restore gold taken out of a French prize in Myldeforde Haven.
18 May.
R.O.
569. Wallop to the Council.
Wrote on the 16th, of De Beez and De Kerkey coming to Fyennes for an enterprise in Bredenerd, and how, the same morning, the Great Master took Daverne, &c., and would probably come to the peels before Arde. He is now before one of them called Cresaker, where, in answer to his summons, those within say "they will not give it over as long as any man is alive." Sent bearer Guisnes (with a "letter of justice" to be shown if he should meet with Frenchmen) to the Great Master, who told him what he had done and intended to do, as he will report. Arde is in great fear, "insomuch as Mons. de Foxall came in this last there (sic) with 50 men of arms, and incontinent sent away his horses. The same morning came thither 300 footmen, and this afternoon 50 men of arms of Mons. de Rochepot's band." Guysnes, 18 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd. : ao [x]xxvo.
20 May.
R.O. [Spanish Calendar. VI. II., No. 141.]
570. Chapuys to the Queen of Hungary.
Yesterday in coming hither, met the King, near the house, who made him a marvellous good reception; and this morning in going to mass the King treated him with the greatest possible cordiality, showing pleasure at the good reception everywhere made to his ambassadors. As it was past 11 o'clock before he went out to mass and he had to speak to the two Scottish ambassadors, of whom Chapuys wrote, who were just arrived, Chapuys began with the most substantial matter, viz., the rupture of the truce by the duke of Cleves. The King said it was folly in the Duke thus to lose all honor and credit; and, when Chapuys said that he might soon make the Duke repent it by declaring him enemy, he answered quickly that, if Chapuys liked, he would send for the Duke's agent and declare his master's error, and that if it was not remedied he would be declared enemy; and, moreover, if Chapuys thought good, he would send an express to the Duke to do this. Doubting that the Emperor might like things better in their present terms and that, after conducting affairs so far, the King would be grieved not to have the arbitrament of the rest, Chapuys excused himself by saying that he would communicate with the Council therein. After dinner was visited by the abp. of Canterbury, the Chancellor, Norfolk, Winchester and Wriothesley, to whom he said that it would be well to speak to the agent, but as for the said envoy he thought it advisable first to know the Queen's pleasure. The said personages also declared more expressly than the King did this morning his desire to send the heralds at once into France, to intimate the war before Mons. de Roeulx abandoned the campaign, so that the captain of Guisnes might join him with 2,500 archers and all his horse, without those which shall leave under the Sieur de Chenay, and if the French, as was probable, after the retreat of De Roeulx, invaded Arthois his men would be ready to assist the Emperor's; for which, and to hasten Thoison d'Or, they prayed Chapuys to despatch with all diligence, begging the Queen to answer at once without waiting for Grandvelle's instruction (memorial), as it was a thing in which there could be no great error, and the King is content to have the summons augmented and reformed as the Emperor pleases. They said that their affairs in Scotland prospered, and the French ambassadors (fn. 3) were ill received and the Governor would hardly speak to them. The Governor held all the fortresses except one (fn. 4) which is in the haven where the French landed; but, at the departure of the ambassadors (fn. 5) who came last, the Governor had commanded the keeper to deliver it within 24 hours on pain of treason.
Because of the absence of the secretary who had the papers, the oath and ratification are deferred to the solemnity of Thursday next. Winchester and Wriothesley have just come to intimate on the King's behalf that he was despatching to the captain of Guisnes to hold himself ready, and to assist De Roeulx if the French invaded, even though the heralds had not yet done their exploit. Anthoncourt, 20 May 1543.
French, pp. 3. Modern transcript from Vienna.
20 May.
R.O. St. P., v. 289.
571. Sir Ralph Eure to Suffolk.
This Sunday, at 10 o'clock, came Lydersdall men named Wilcokes Ellwood, Hobbe Hellwodd, Dandy Elwodd, Willie Hellwodd, Edde Crosyer, Ector Crosyer and Felpe Crosyer, "in the name of iijxx of their surname, all horsed men, which is within Ledersdall, and of another grain than those are which I do write unto your Grace of in my last letter," offering (if Eure would assure them) to be partaker with England against all other Scots, and to lay pledges on condition that, if driven out of Scotland, they may dwell in the waste ground of England. Answered that he had no authority to take their offer, but would advertise Suffolk and the lord Warden of it, and meanwhile not hurt them without giving a day's warning. Chipchays, 20 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd. : ao xxxvo.
20 May.
R.O. Sadler State Papers, I. 199.
572. Sadler to the Council.
On the receipt of their letters, dated Whitsunday at night and received the Thursday after, Sadler repaired to the Governor, at Glasco, 40 miles from Edinburgh, and declared the King's advice touching the legate that is to repair hither, called Marco Gremayn, the Cardinal and Lenoux. The Governor "took in marvellous good part" that the King should so admonish him of dangers and advise him how to eschew them, answering that if the French king did them no more harm than procure the sending of a legate to curse them he cared little; for, if the Legate raised any garboil with his fulminations, or advanced things which might stir division here, "he should surely never go home again"; but glad he would be, according to the King's advice, to empeach the Legate's coming, and only waited to know whether he should have peace or war with the King, for, if all things were established and peace concluded, he would, with the King's advice, soon reduce the realm to obedience, reform the Church and advance God's word, "maugre the Legate, the Cardinal and all the bishops and priests of this realm, with all their parttakers." Sadler said he had good hope of the peace, shortly; and the Governor reiterated his desire for it, saying he would then, forthwith, set upon the Cardinal at St. Andrews, who was the only man he hated (and that with just cause, for he wrote the humblest possible letters and yet privily wrought to set division betwixt him and the noblemen), but, until sure of peace, he was loth to stir any garboil. The Governor said he sent a herald to Lynoux, commanding him in the Queen's name to deliver Donbrytten castle; to which Lynoux agreed; but the captain, Sterling, who claims the keeping of the castle for seven years yet to come, by the late King's grant, utterly refuses delivery. This, the Governor says, is Lynoux's doing, who put 100 men into the castle and himself remained in the town with 1,200, until he heard that the Governor, Angus, Cassells, Somervile and the sheriff of Ayre were coming with 4,000; when he wrote a kind letter to Angus, desiring to speak with him and offering to be ruled by him. Whereupon they spake together on Wednesday last, and Lynoux promised to come the next day and both render the castle and confess the Governor to be governor and second person of the realm; but, instead, fled next day into the Highland and hid in rocks and mountains. All his company scaled and broke; and the gentlemen of it offered their service to the Governor with the excuse that they supposed Lynoux "had been a true gentleman and would have done the semblable." The captain of Donbryttayne castle proudly set out banners and prepared for defence; but the castle (the Governor says) is so strongly situate on a high rock as to be impregnable otherwise than by famine, and, therefore, making proclamation against aiding the said captain and finding the country obedient, the Governor returned to Glasgow, intending within these 5 or 6 days to repair to Edinburgh and deliberate how to proceed against Lynoux. Lynoux is apparently guided by the Cardinal; for, on Wednesday night, after his promise to Angus, he received a letter and message from the Cardinal which caused him next morning to privily flee into the Highland. Thus far, the Governor said, he had proceeded against Lynoux; and if peace were concluded he would pursue both the Cardinal and Lynoux, but, until he saw how things stood between the two realms, he must suspend his proceedings. Sadler warned him so to do it that his enemies took no courage by his stay; but he made nothing of it, saying they could not oppose him, and, as for Lynoux, he would be taken if he went to his own country of Lenoux or showed himself, and, peace once concluded ("which string he always harped on"), he would soon bring the realm to perfect obedience. Although he much desired to have Stirling castle into his hands, and would (as the King advised) try to get it from lord Erskyn, he thought that would be difficile, it being the Queen's jointure; but he could be master of the bridge, for he and Angus, Cassells and Glencarn had more friends on the other side of the water than any of their adversaries, and the castle had no ordnance nor artillery to keep the bridge. The Convocation at St. Andrews was with his licence, in order that the clergy should determine what money they would give to sustain the war if it ensued; and although a great many bishops assembled they prorogued their convention until 1 June next, when the whole clergy intend to meet; and meanwhile resolved "that they will, for the maintenance of the war, give all the money they have, and also their own plate and their churches' plate, as chalices, crosses, censers and all, leaving nothing unspent in that quarrel, and fight themselves if need require." If peace succeed, the Governor will stop their meeting on 1 June. The ship Lenoux came in departed within these six days for France with one Stuard, whom Lennox despatched to the French king. If some of the King's ships might meet with her Lennox's practices might be surely known. The Governor purposed to take her, but she kept aloof in the seas and, being well furnished with ordnance, could not be approached. She departed very suddenly; and is yet scantly off the coast, for the wind has not served. Sadler said he trusted that, when peace was concluded (which he hoped would be ere long), the Governor would make some ships to keep the seas, so that the Legate might not escape. He answered that he would gladly send as many as he could to join the King's ships for that purpose.
Has participated the effect of the Council's said letters to Angus, Casselles and Somervile (Maxwell remains upon the Borders); and finds them agree with the Governor, fearing neither the Legate's coming nor any party of their adversaries if the peace succeed. Angus, whose power Lenoux only fleeth from, is of a "jolly courage" to win Dumbarton castle by assault, and would have essayed it at this time had they had any ordnance, and thinks it could be won. Angus, Casselles and Somervile assert that the Governor desires nothing more than this peace and the King's favour; and indeed the Governor showed Sadler that he was heartily welcome, and, to-day, has appointed gentlemen to accompany him to Sterling, 24 miles hence, and not much out of his way to Edinburgh, to let him see the castle and the country. The Governor goes himself to Hamilton, for three or four days, and then to Edinburgh against the time when he thinks to hear from Glencairn and Douglas.
P.S.—The Governor said that the Cardinal sent him a message, by the laird of Brunstoun, that, since the King (whom he never offended) was so displeased with him that his demore here might impede the unity of the two realms and the Governor would not use his services, which he most willingly offered, he humbly desired licence to go live quietly in France, and have the profits of his bishopric and other revenues sent to him there. In this the Governor said he would use Sadler's advice. Told him it would be evil counsel to advise him to license the Cardinal to go into France, where he might freely work mischief against this realm; and hereupon "made him an example of our cardinal Poole, the marquis of Exceter and the lord Montacue with the circumstances of that matter"; and advised him rather so to proceed against the Cardinal as to be "sure to keep him from such liberty." The Governor thereupon said he would proceed against the Cardinal and all the rest by the King's counsel, and, if peace were agreed on to-day, he would to-morrow go upon the Cardinal and pull him out of his castle of St. Andrews, which was of no strength. Glasco, 20 May. Signed.
Pp. 11. Add. Endd : ao xxxvo.
20 May.
R.O. St. P., V. 288.
573. Sadler to [Parr].
Refers him to the letters herewith to the Privy Council for the state of all things here. Begs his lordship, when he has perused the letters, to seal them up and address the packet to my lord of Suffolk to peruse and forward to Court. The letters directed to Glencarn and Mr. Douglas should not be opened as they are Scottish letters. Glasco, 20 May.
Hol., p. 1. Fly leaf with address lost.
20 May.
R.O.
574. Maltravers to Henry VIII.
Mons. de Vandosme is come to Montrell, whither Mons. de Byes yesterday rode from Bolen, leaving Bolen so slenderly furnished that the people murmur. Thither are come also the lansknechts who were in the last French camp and the bands of the Constable and Mons. de Vandosme, and more are coming.
Mons. de Reulx has overthrown Cresacre. He told a servant of the writer's that in Daverne he found a letter written to a Frenchman declaring that the French have such practices with the Scots that no doubt "they would [r]emain to the French as before they [h]ave done." He had sent the letter to the Regent of Flanders. [Ca]les, 20 May. Signature lost.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd. : My 1. Deputy of Calais.
20 May.
R.O. St. P., IX., 382.
575. Harvel to Henry VIII.
Wrote on the 5th. The Signory's letters from Andronopoli of 19 April state that the Turk should depart for Hungary on the 24th; and French letters, "more fresh," mention his departure. His host is 300,000 men of war and 80,000 labourers. His navy should be abroad "by all April," numbering 120 galleys and 40 or 50 fustes. There is a rumor that Barbarossa accompanies the Turk, to command the navy on the Danubio, and Lutefy Bassa is general upon the seas; also that Polin should accompany this navy with authority to direct it. It is too mean for any great invasion, and the Imperial navy can defend the sea coast. In all Italy is fame of the league between Henry and the Emperor, to the inestimable fear of the Roman bishop and Frenchmen. The Bishop lies in Bononyc and makes men for his defence. He will give his niece Signora Constancia to the duke of Orleans, with Parma and Plaisance; and all the world notes him French. Pole is in Bononye, but the other two cardinals (fn. 6) remain in Trent until the Emperor comes, whose delay is marvelled at. The King of Tonis is come to Geane with 150 horses of Barbary and other presents for the Emperor. Guasto makes men in Lombardy for Hungary, but many think it is because of the Bishop "tending to arms." There is ruinous discord among the Hungarians. The Almains are constrained to unite against the Turk. The Venetian general departs to-morrow, but will not go out of the Gulf with his 60 galleys. "These days past, this Signory hath been in great and secret council for matters much important which hereto is not opened abroad." Venice, 20 May 1543.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
20 May.
R.O.
576. Edmond Harvel to Ant. Denny.
Thanks him effusively for letters of 13 April and for cramp rings sent by Mr. Bucler. Denny's nephew "esforsith himself" to increase his virtuous qualities, but, "being weak and delicate of nature, it is not to lade him with greater burden than he may well sustain." The Turk was departed towards Hungary with 300,000 men of war and 80,000 labourers. His navy, numbering 120 galleys and 40 or 50 fustes, should by this time be abroad. The fame of the league of our master and the Emperor is constant in all Italy and tormenteth the Bishop and our adversaries; and the Bishop makes men "for the presidy of his towns and person." The Emperor's coming, which is hourly expected, shall clear all. "The Bishop's authority in religion seemeth to diminish more and more, as well in this city as in all the rest of Italy, for the Scripture beginneth to reign universally." Venice, 20 May 1543.
Hol., p. 1. Add. : Al molto magco Sor, il Sor Antonio Denny, amicho mio ossermo, alla Chorte. Endd : Mr. Harvelles letters to Mr. Denny.

R.O. St. P., v. 302
577. Sir George Douglas.
"A memorial for Sir George Douglas, who now repaireth into Scotland, to obtain commission and instructions to conclude these articles following."
The marriage of the daughter of Scotland with my lord Prince with these conditions :—(1) Her person to be delivered to the King or the Prince at her age of 8, or 10 years at furthest. (2) Hostages, viz., six carls and barons or their heirs, such as the King approves, and two bishops, to be laid for her delivery as above. (3) Meanwhile she to be in custody of the Scottish lords already appointed by Parliament, except Erskyn and Seton; and, "for her education, instruction, safe and wholesome nurriture," the King may appoint English folk about her. (4) After her delivery here, the marriage to be solemnised at her age of 12 years at furthest. (5) When in England she attains the state of queen, she shall enjoy as great a dower as queens of England commonly have had.
The perpetual peace to be like last peace with Scotland, with the exception of the French king pretermitted; and with this provision, That whomsoever either party shall comprehend shall not enjoy the benefit of that comprehension if the same detain any land, possession or pension from the King or from Scotland, and neither party shall aid or favour or suffer their subjects to have traffic with such comprehense, and either party shall be at liberty to aid the other for wages against such comprehense. If it may be obtained, the hostages for the delivery of the Daughter shall also be bound for the observance of the peace until that delivery.
The King is well content that (the aforesaid treaties once passed) the Governor, continuing his devotion to the King and using the Counsel of such noblemen of Scotland as hitherto, shall enjoy the governorship during the Daughter's nonage, with the King's support and the use, for affairs of the realm, of all revenues except a convenient portion for the Daughter's maintenance.
Touching delivery of the prisoners and their pledges, the treaties being ratified as above and the hostages delivered, they shall be so used as to have cause to confess the King's great humanity, liberality and goodness.
Sir George must obtain a revocation of the former commission and instructions given to Hamylton, Leyrmonth and the secretary; and return so authorised that Glencarne and he, and the other three, may pass over these matters without respect of any other commission or instructions than such as shall be newly sent with Sir George in his return, which shall contain no other matter or qualification than is in this memorial.
Pp. 3.
Add. MS. 32,650 f. 268. B.M. 2. Draft of the above corrected by Wriothesley.
Pp. 4.
Ib. f. 270. 3. Fair copy of the preceding.
Pp. 3.

Footnotes

  • 1. An alternative draft, probably set aside in favour of the preceding.
  • 2. Glencairn. The report that two of the other ambassadors had returned home is not confirmed elsewhere, and all three were in London at the signing of the treaty six weeks after this.
  • 3. Apparently meaning Lennox and his Company.
  • 4. Dumbarton.
  • 5. Glencairn and Sir George Douglas. See last page.
  • 6. Morone and Parisi.