Henry VIII: June 1543, 11-15

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.

This free content was digitised by double rekeying. All rights reserved.

'Henry VIII: June 1543, 11-15', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 18 Part 1, January-July 1543, (London, 1901) pp. 393-406. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol18/no1/pp393-406 [accessed 19 March 2024]

Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image

June 1543, 11-15

11 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 144.
683. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Westm., 11 June. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Hertford, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Riche, Baker. Business :Letters sent to the Duke of Suffolk to send 100 horsemen to Hull, for Guisnes, and send hither Sir Robt. Bowes, appointed treasurer of wars; also to the Customer and Comptroller of Calais for transportation of the soldiers to Guisnes.
11 June.
R.O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 154.]
684. Chapuys to Charles V.
Nothing has happened since he last wrote to the Queen Dowager of Hungary (copy herewith), showing that this King goes unfeignedly to work, and there is hope that he will continue from good to better, especially as all those in credit are partial to the Emperor. All the Council were displeased that the bp. of London wrote that the Emperor made not much of the news of the conclusion of the treaty of closer amity and, in spite of his solicitations, put off the ratification for nine or ten days. The Council, considering that such reports might engender scruple, immediately concluded to solicit the King for the bp.'s revocation, which the King has resolved upon when the Emperor shall approach Flanders.
In this last Parliament has been made a book for the extirpation of the heresies and errors which have heretofore reigned; restoring the ceremonies and other things of the Christian religion to their first state, except what concerns the authority of the Apostolic See. London, 11 June, 1543.
French, pp. 2. Modern transcript from a Vienna MS. endd. : "receues en Cremone, le xxvje dud. mois 1543."
11 June.
R.O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 155.]
685. Chapuys to the Queen Of Hungary.
On Friday, 8th inst., late, received her letters of the 6th; and next morning despatched in diligence to this King, who was (and still is) 50 miles hence, writing to the lords Privy Seal, Grand Esquire and others to promote the contents of her letter; and they have not feigned to help therein, as will appear hereafter. The same morning, some while after his man had left, the Council abiding here sent word that they wished to speak with Chapuys and would come to him. Went to them; and they, by the King's order, asked his opinion upon the answer made by Du Biez to the heralds, Thoyson d'Or and Garter. After some talk, told them it was time lost to wait for the heralds to have access to the French King, for the French were prolonging the affair, by dissimulation, in order meanwhile to surprise something of the Emperor's or theirs; however, if the King insisted on trying that way first, the deputy of Calais might write in the King's name to Du Biez, governor of Boulogne, that the sending of the heralds was for the affairs of Christendom, in which, as the Emperor held first place, the King would not speak alone, especially when there was amity and union between the Emperor and him, and it seemed strange and against all right that difficulty was made about the access of Thoyson, for, although there was war between the Emperor and the King of France, the heralds might jointly open means of coming to peace if the King of France would yield to reason. Repeated that it was labour lost to press for the access, and that a quicker and surer way was to call the French ambassador and, in presence of the people, show him the whole charge of the heralds and give him a term in which to advertise his master of it and make answer; and, if it seemed best, dismiss him therewith. This advice was liked in both points, especially the latter; and the Council at once despatched to the King, whose answer is hourly expected.
This morning the Council sent for him, in the same way as before, and showed him a letter from the King in answer to what his man solicited, saying that the King, considering that the danger of the French invasion touched him no less than the Emperor, would gladly gratify the Emperor by sending the assistance capitulated before it was due, but he would first know from Chapuys what order there was there to provide them with victuals, and moreover (which was the chief thing) whether it was intended to shut up his men in garrison, which would be very irksome and distasteful to them, and if he sent them it should be in the expectation that battle would be given (et que les ayant d'envoyer ce seroit une intention que l' on deu donner la bataille), desiring to know the plan. It will be well to write amply for his satisfaction. He would also know if she wishes artillery sent with his men, in which case horses for carriage will be necessary; also where his men should join the Emperor's, and what way they should take to avoid ambuscades. After discussion, the Council prayed him to despatch with all diligence for her resolution in this, and meanwhile they will hasten the said aid, for which, within six days, 1,500 footmen will go over sea, with some number of horses, and the rest will soon follow, there having arrived here from the North 500 skilful and wary and experienced men. Ships are sent to Ulch to lade victuals for Calais, besides the grain provided here both for bread and beer. Has shown them that Flanders will need some assistance in grain, seeing the waste done and the number of soldiers supported.
Has had great altercation touching the impost of one per cent., to which the Council hold that the King will never condescend, praying Chapuys to get the Queen to be content with the present which the merchants are willing to make, which will be as much or more than the impost would amount to. Represented that she could not exempt them without the Emperor's knowledge and that, at all events, she must act as he wrote in his last. When they were still dissatisfied, asked what wrong it would do them to make those pay the impost who sold merchandise to their people. They answered None, and that that might be done. But when Chapuys told them that that was impossible without examining their merchandise, they would not hear of it. Thinks however that they cannot prevent it by the treaty of intercourse upon which they ground themselves.
Haste made him forget, in his letters of the 29th ult., to touch upon Garter's charge, nor did there seem great need for it, since he had no commission to demand more than is contained in the treaty. It is true that they allege some more causes which have moved the King to join with the Emperor, such as the refusal to pay his pensions, the setting Scotland to make war against him, and now the practising with the Scots, and other little intrigues. And in the article of Thoyson d' Or's instructions "que fournissent aux choses demandees l'on entendroit en amitye" they add "ou donnant promptes et suffisantes pleyges pour fournir," and add moreover "la ratiffication de ce que propouseroit led. Thoyson d'Or." London, 11 June, 1543.
11 June.
Add. MS. 32,651 f. 19. B.M. Hamilton Papers, No. 381.
686. Suffolk and Durham to the Council.
Send herewith a letter out of Scotland from Mr. Sadleyr, with three letters more (of which one is to the King); and also a letter of Sir Thos. Wharton's "touching other particular prisoners than the Larde Rassith, which is stayed for the King and no price yet made for the King with Richard Dacres," who demands for his ransom 80l. Dacres has not yet come to Suffolk. Midsummer approaches, when both Scottish and English prisoners must make their entry. Even if the King prolong the day for other Scottish prisoners, Oliver Synkler should enter at his day; by whom it may be known if there were any secret practises with Sir John Witherington (who was kept at his brother's house) or John Heron (who was kept three miles from Edinburgh and spake with the Scottish King, as he has confessed both to the writers and to the lord Admiral) or George Urde or other; with whom, peradventure, the Scottish King did practise to make a party in England, like as the King practised with his prisoners. Oliver Synkler was sent twice to his brother's house to practise with Witherington, as the Scot, his accuser, told Suffolk and the lord Admiral (as they wrote at the time). The Scot who accused both Witherington and George Urde promised to be forthcoming, but, although sent for, there is yet no word of him. The King might write to the Governor that he wishes to learn by Sinkler what practises his kinsman Lynoux goes about. Sinkler told Suffolk that he could, with Lynoux, make a great party for the King; and indeed the King should know Lynoux's practises in order both to warn the Governor and his friends in Scotland and to eschew the mischief thereof. Witherington has agreed with his taker to pay 250 mks., and has laid pledges, so that he need not himself enter again. The King's pleasure must be known touching the prolonging of the entry of prisoners at Midsummer Day and of the truce, which will expire within six days after, if matters with the Scots cannot be perfected in that time. Baking and brewing at Berwik has been stayed because of the prolonging of the last truce, "because, else, the King might sustain great losses if it were not used to the purpose that it was ordained for." Darnton, 11 June. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd. : 1543.
11 [June].
R.O. St. P., IX. 401.
687. Chr. Barker, Garter King of Arms, to the Council.
On the 11th inst., the Lord Deputy sent the trumpet of Calais concerning the Council's letter written from Colchester to Mons. de Byse for Barker's passport. Tossun Dor marvels that he has no answer from the Emperor's ambassador, for, if he go not, Barker's instructions must be altered, and there is no appearance that Tossun Dor will get a passport. Thinks his own will be delayed. This morning 18 great French ships drove four Flemish ships of war, from nigh Dieppe, to take refuge at Resbanke Castle, and then passed northwards. The French king and army draw towards St. Quyntyns. Caleys, 11th of this month. Signed : X.B. al's Gartier.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd. : "xj Junii 1543."
11 June.
R.O. St. P., IX. 402.
688. Bonner to Henry VIII.
Before following the Emperor towards Pavia and Cremona on the 7th., wrote from Geanes on 29 May (fn. 1) and 3 June. Recapitulates the whole of these letters. That of the 2d [just referred to as the "3d"] reported Card. Farnese's coming to Geanes from the Bishop of Rome, the assuredness of the meeting between the Emperor and Bishop at Castel St. John's or Burgo St. Donyn (now it is said the Emperor comes from Cremona to Poles and meets the Bishop at Bussedo near Parma), the difficulty and the reason of this meeting, and why the Emperor goes not to Milan, the arrival of Sr. Fabritius de Colonna, and information touching Dudley received at Geanes from certain Englishmen who said they had written to the Council therein. Sends copy and translation of a printed writing showing that the Emperor will hold a Diet in Germaine. Hears it is to be at Spires, 30 Nov., and that the Emperor speaks with the Bishop to gratify him by promising that nothing shall pass without his advice, and also "to fear him." The Emperor's soldiers in Piedmont have mutinied for their pay, and the Emperor means to take them with him to Flanders and plant others in their place; as likewise the French king has sent his Italians from Piedmont into Picardy and planted Frenchmen in their place. The Emperor had much ado to please all parties, his officers and Spaniards being exceedingly hated, and himself bare of money and not sure of the Bishop of Rome. He has sent most of his men on before to Mantua and Trente and written to the princes of Germany to be in arms for the coming of the Turk, against whom Ferdinandus and the power of the Empire prepare resistance "unless the Turq come in person." The Emperor will bend all his power (the truce ended) against the duke of Cleves unless the Turk's coming alter him. Venice, Mantua and Florence are to join against the French king; and likewise the duke of Ferrare, "but, considering his entertainment of the Pope with practise of marriage and how he doth favour the French part, it is not so well believed of him." The Bishop of Rome openly favours France and only for "worldly wisdom and profit" holds in with the Emperor, each of them having an ill-opinion of the other. Since the duke of Florence's coming there are practises for the Emperor to surrender the castles he detains from the Signory for two millions; and also talk of conveying the duchy of Millan, for money, to the duke of Camerine. The count Palatine shall now help the Emperor with 10,000 foot and 600 horse. Vogera, 11 June.
Hol., pp. 2. Slightly mutilated. Add.
R.O. 2. Copy of the preceding in Bonner's hand, also addressed.
Pp. 2. Faded and mutilated. Endd. : "Copia literarum mearum de data xj Junii apud Vogeram."
12 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 145.
689. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Westm., 12 June. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Hertford, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Riche, Baker. Business :Letters to be sent to the deputy of Calais and Sir John Wallop, notifying "the coming over of the crew" and requiring them to muster the same. Letter sent to Fletcher of Rie to bring hither three or four known to be "expert in the coasts of Normandye and Brittayne."
12 June.
R.O. St. P., IX. 406.
690. The Privy Council to Seymour and Wotton.
The King has received their sundry letters touching their discourse with President Scory about the impost, the Regent's request for aid and the Emperor's arrival in Italy. Albeit, none invasion being yet made, the King is not bound to furnish the aid prescribed by the treaty, yet, for the manner of her request and his affection to the Emperor, he will devise with his Council for her contentation, but must first know what number of men she will join to his army and how she will furnish them to keep the field (for he would not "have them put in garrison who have been used evermore to keep the field"), how near the Pale her army will join hers and how they shall be furnished with victuals and necessaries. This they shall declare to the Regent, inducing her to order her army to meet his as near the Pale as can be; and then, speaking of the impost, they shall say that the King cannot think that she herself "presseth so much the impost," but imputes it to some minister who does not well weigh the amity between the King and the Emperor, for the treaty will nowise bear it and the pretence of its being an example to others to pay is gone (for they have all paid); and he expects to hear no more of it. Of themselves, they shall add that, now, when the King is ready, at his charge, to send this aid before there is any invasion, she shall do well to suppress this matter of impost, and not burden his subjects with a charge which can neither be maintained by the treaty nor demanded of friendship when he contributes aid otherwise; praying her to consider what benefit to those countries ensues by the traffic of our merchants, and that to oppress them now will make them grudge at this new amity and seek some other way for their profit. And they shall require her to discharge the merchants and order delivery of their ships and goods out of hand; using all dexterity to obtain this.
They shall show the Regent that Sir Geo. Douglas, lately sent into Scotland with articles of treaty, is now returning with a full agreement to them by the Governor and Lords of Scotland. Also that the King is glad of the Emperor's arrival in Italy.
The King received their letters from Peter a Boes, and desires to know what conference they had with his man.
Draft corrected by Paget, pp. 17. Endd. : Mynute to Sir Thos. Seymour and Mr. Wotton, xijo Junii, 1543.
12 June.
Add. MS. 32,651, f. 21. B.M. Hamilton Papers, No. 382.
691. Suffolk and Durham to the Council.
This day Suffolk received a letter from the lord Warden with the following news :That Scotland is divided into factions and there is no universal obedience to the Governor. On 11 June Bothwell forcibly entered the nunnery of Hadington, put the prioress and convent into a chamber and used the goods of the house at his pleasure. This nunnery being but 10 miles from Edinburgh, the Governor sent a herald, with commandment to Bothwell to avoid the place, and George Douglas with a company of men to restore the prioress. There were many bragging words between Bothwell's company and the Governor's, but no affray. Lately the Governor sent for three of the late King's bastard sons that were at the school at St. Andrews, and the lord of Grange, late treasurer of the Household, was conveying them to Edinburgh when the larde of Lough Leven, who married the Larde Erskin's daughter, mother of one of the said children, encountered them and took his wife's son away, saying that none should have the order of his wife's sons but himself.
Describe how, upon communication licensed by the lord Warden, at Alnwick, between Sir Robt. Bowes and George Davison, his taker, Davison offered, for 40l. ransom (and 20 mks. to be secretly paid to himself, so that "neither his lands, lord nor booty fellows ne partners" should know of it), to fully acquit Sir Robert and restore his bond. This offer Sir Robert thought not meet to be refused, but, on pretence that he had not the money ready, took a stay until 21 June, in order to learn whether Mr. Sadleyr, at the prorogation of the prisoners' entry from Pentecost to Midsummer, had made any promise which could not thus be dispensed with, and also to know the King's pleasure. Sir Robert says that Sir George Douglas, at his last going towards Scotland informed him that both Scottish and English prisoners should enter at Midsummer next. Enclose a letter from Sir Robert to Suffolk. Think that Sir Robert and all other prisoners should agree for their ransoms as soon as they can. Darnton, 12 June. Signed.
P.S.Of late the chief of the Armestrongs, Rowteleages and Nycsones of Lyddesdale offered Sir Thos. Wharton to serve the King with 100 horse and 100 foot and be sworn the King's subjects, and dwell in Lyddesdale or the Batable Ground or in England, if they might have their friends, now prisoners at Carlisle and Alnwick, released, who were taken at the burning of Sleyley, and to release four Englishmen whom they took there. Wharton answered only that he would advertise the lord Warden. Suffolk has advised the lord Warden to make the same answer as heretofore; so that the Scots may not say we have broken the truce by maintaining truce breakers; and, besides, these broken men keep no promise longer than it serves them.
Pp. 5. Add. Endd. : 1543.
12 June.
R.O.
692. Suffolk to Parr.
I have examined the bearer, John Musgrave, and the other two your Lordship sent; and have discharged the other two, finding this man only in fault, for not delivering a letter sent to Sir Thomas Wharton from my lord of Northfolke, then the King's lieutenant, and me and others of the Council then at Newcastle, for an exploit to have been done last year upon the King's enemies; which letter Musgrave kept until Whitsontide last, and Wharton knew nothing of it until Trinity Sunday, when it was delivered to him in presence of Sir Ralph Eure and others. The young man is to be committed to ward at Newcastle or elsewhere, as a warning to beware how he neglects to deliver a letter touching the King's affairs; and at his release you should give him a good lesson. Darnton, 12 June. Signed.
P.S.Though the young man is to be imprisoned, let him have no irons laid upon him, and keep him not in prison past eight days.
P. 1. Flyleaf with address lost.
13 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 145.
693. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Westm., 13 June. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Hertford, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Riche, Baker. Business :Letter sent to the lord Deputy and Wallop to advertise what men they might spare for any exploit to be done jointly with "thespialles" (sic, qu. th'emp'ialles ?, i.e. the Imperialists).
13 June.
R.O.
694. Suffolk to [Parr].
This shall be to advertise you [that such news "as ye sente hither yesterdaye be adu[ertised up to the Court]; and wher yor lordship wrote to k[now what answer it] were best to make to Sir Thomas Wh[arton for the] Armestranges of Lyddisdale and the Ro[wteleages] and the Nycsones concerning their offers" to be the King's subjects, made in order to avoid the due punishment of their kinsmen taken for breaking the truce, better answer than has been heretofore given cannot be devised. If their offers were accepted, the Scots would say we broke the truce; and the promises of such broken men will be kept no longer than serves them. Shortly, we shall see what shall come of the peace that is in treating, and meanwhile they may be entertained with good words. Sir George Douglas is gone in post towards the Court this morning. He made suit for Wm. Cockburne, the captain of Norham's prisoner, to go upon bond to re-enter upon two days' notice; so you may let him go. "[The] depositions soundeth that he spake it of the reporte of [some in] Scotland, albeit furst enformacion was that he [spake] as of his owne hede." I have written to Brian [Layton] to let him go. Darnton, 13 June. Signed.
P.S.Sir George says the takers of the English prisoners are under bonds not to ransom them without the knowledge of the Council of Scotland; wherefore it is best to await the King's pleasure, "seeing the King gat prolonging of the day for them and gave them like day for their prisoners to enter."
Pp. 2. Flyleaf with address lost.
13 June.
R.O. St. P., v. 305.
695. Durham to [Parr].
Yesterday such news as he sent to the Lords and to my lord Lieutenant were advertised up to the Court, but his letter to the Lords was stayed, lest they should think he meddled further than he had commission, in desiring answer whether English prisoners (as well all other as Sir Robt. Bowes, who is with him) might agree for their ransoms before their day of entry; in which matter my lord Lieutenant has special commission, and had, two days before, written for the King's pleasure for prolonging their entry, and also the truce, if the matters with Scotland should not be perfected. Advises him to advertise the lord Lieutenant of all matters, who will not fail to advertise the Council, and has chief charge, both without Parr's wardenry and within it, and must account to the King for the whole country. Hitherto my lord Lieutenant was never advertised of the proclamation in Scotland of the prorogation of the truce, and therefore wrote to Sadler, who answered that all the Borders of Scotland could testify that it was made there. My lord Lieutenant marvels that the deputy wardens have not advertised Parr of this, seeing they were commanded not to make it until after the Scots made it. My lord Lieutenant sent up Sir Robt. Bowes' letter (reporting the licence which Parr gave him to treat with his taker), desiring brief answer of the same. Darnton, 13 June. Signed.
Pp. 2. Flyleaf with address lost.
13 June. Sadler State Papers, I. 217. 696. Sadler to Henry VIII.
Has, in accordance with the letters brought by Sir Robert Richardson, priest, commended Richardson to the Governor; who, for Henry's sake, has thankfully received him, heard him preach and promised him a living. With the Governor's licence, Richardson has been to St. Andrews and has conferred with the Cardinal, as declared in his letters enclosed. Upon the other letters brought by Mr. John Spencer, has put Spencer to the Governor's service, who has heartily received him.
Headed : To the King's majesty, 13th June, 1543.
13 June.
R.O. Sadler State Papers, I. 218.
697. Sadler to Parr.
Perceives by his of 11 June how matters stand between Sir Robert Bowes and his taker, (fn. 2) and Parr's desire to know whether they may proceed without offending any promise made here by Sadler. Sued for the prorogation until midsummer, which was granted without condition or promise on his part; so that Bowes and the rest may make their bargains. But their takers are bound here not to compound with or acquit their prisoners without licence of the Governor and Council, who, apparently, intend to use the English prisoners as the King shall use the Scottish; and, if peace succeed, whereof he sees no great difficulty, he thinks that the King will set free all, or the most part, of the Scottish prisoners, without ransom. It may be that the takers of Bowes and the rest, knowing this, fear that they may be driven to compound with the Governor for their ransoms, and would be glad to get beforehand as much as they might. Edinburgh, 13 June.
Pp. 2. Flyleaf with address lost. Headed in Sadler State Papers : To my lord Parr.
14 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 145.
698. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Westm., 14 June. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Hertford, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Riche, Baker. Business :Letter sent to Court touching despatch hence for revocation of Garter, the ambassador of Spain's promise to come to Westminster next morning, &c. Warrant sent to the Master of the Ordnance to send pikes and other munitions, forthwith, to Guisnes.
Another meeting the same day. Business :Letter sent to Court, declaring discourse with the Emperor's ambassador touching the revocation of Garter and the new imposition in Flanders.
14 June.
R.O. St. P., I. 752.
699. The Council In London to the Council At Court.
The Emperor's ambassador, according to his promise, repaired to us yesterday, and, after dinner, declared the contents of Mons. de Rieulx's letters to him which we mentioned in our letters yesterday, viz : how feasible the enterprise of Monstreul should be now that the French king was bending towards Noyon and Avennes on the other side of Arras and that 6,000 footmen, 1,200 horsemen and 6 pieces of artillery would suffice; and as for keeping it, "by that time it should be won th'Emperor would be so strongly at the hand (?) as therein should be small difficulty." He declared the commodity thus to be gained for an enterprise to Rouen, upon pretence of besieging some town upon the Somme; declaring, with many words, our just title to Normandy, and the advantage of its proximity to Brittany which was now ready to rebel. As this was little to the purpose that we called him for, we omit to write his discourse. Breaking from that matter we declared, as in your letters, that the King liked his device for the intimation of the war in presence of the French ambassador, but deferred it. He expressed a wish that the King might be present, and, when we thought that neither necessary nor expedient, declared how, for a very simple matter, the French king assembled the 12 peers of France at Paris, "in the open palace which is there as is here Westminster Hall," and, calling Granvela, then the Emperor's ambassador, openly defied the Emperor. (fn. 3) Coming then to the imposition we declared how the merchants had been at Court to complain of the staying of their ships and to beg remedy, and we prayed him to consider the long amity "between our merchants and that countries," and how the merchants rejoiced at the late alliance, but now to be treated with such extremity as an enemy could scantly show worse would make them withdraw draw their affection; and we prayed him to obtain delivery of the ships. He said he did not know that they were stayed, but even "as a fool is holden when his finger is put into an hole"; why could they not have paid, with a protestation, and come away ? Detail further dialogue which ended by his promising to write earnestly into Flanders.
My lord Admiral has brought us a warrant signed by the King; and as, yesterday, we sent the Signet back to you, we now send the warrant to be signed and returned. Wm. Gonston declared, in presence of my lord Admiral, that the ships shall be ready on Sunday or Monday next, if the captains are then ready; and would know "what mariners shall come from Hull, according to your Lordship's letters directed unto the lord Admiral." Send letters just received out of the North. Have also received two letters from Calais, one of them touching the conveyance of the French ambassador's letters "whereof we lately advertised your Lordship." As the parties are in prison and have not so much offended as it might at first sight appear, we would know the King's pleasure. We pray God that our men find sufficient victuals over sea, and money for their wages. Westminster, 14 June. Signed by Cranmer, Audeley, Norfolk, Hertford, Lisle, Westminster, Ryche and Bakere.
Pp. 6. Faded and injured by damp. Add. Endd. : 1543.
14 June.
Add. MS. 32,651 f. 24. B.M. Hamilton Papers, No. 383.
700. The Privy Council to Suffolk.
The King has seen his letters from Darnton the 11th inst., and likes his opinion touching Oliver St. Clere. Whereas Midsummer is the day of entry for prisoners of both sides, the King is content that Casselles, Maxwell, Somervel and Graye, and such other as Mr. Sadleyr (with the advice of the Governor, Anguish and Casselles) thinks meet to remain in Scotland, shall have their day of entry prolonged until Lammas Day; and likewise desires that Sir Cuthbert Ratclif, Sir Robert Bowes, Thos. Slyngsby, Parson Ogle, John Tempest and such others as Suffolk thinks meet may have like day. St. Clere and others whom Mr. Sadleyr thinks not meet to serve the King's purpose there shall come in at Midsummer; and Suffolk shall order other English prisoners (save Bowes and Ratclif and such as he will except) likewise to enter at Midsummer, and shall signify this to Sadleyr that he may obtain Lammas Day for the coming in of Ratcliff, Bowes, &c. Scottish prisoners entering at Midsummer shall remain upon the Borders. Terlinge, 14 June 1543.
Draft corrected by Wriothesley, pp. 4. Endd. : The Council attendant upon the King's Majesty's person to my l. of Suff., xiiijo Junii 1543.
14 June.
R.O. St. P., I. 756.
701. Lisle to the Council At Court.
This 14 June I received your letters dated St. Ousey's, 13 June, and repaired to my lords of the Council, with Wm. Gonson, to declare the state of the four ships now preparing, which, if the captains named in your letters be ready (which I doubt), we will deliver to them victualled and manned for one month. Sir Ris Maunsfeld, named to be vice-admiral, and John Care, Baldwin Willoughbye and my fellow, Jennyns, captains, are yet scantly warned. Maunsfeld is here and shall know the King's pleasure before I sleep, but I hear nothing of the others. Where you write that you have ordered Mr. Brian to send up 200 of the mariners lately despatched at Hull, and that, until they come, none of the mariners of Harwich coast are to be despatched, this will delay the four ships still later than I first wrote to Mr. Brian, viz. the end of next week; whereas now they shall be ready on Monday next if the captains are ready. If the mariners come from Hull before the captains are ready, I will return as many of the Harwich mariners. Where you write to me to instruct Baldwin Willoughby and the others; the King's instructions to Sir Rice Mansfeld as vice-admiral should be devised by you and signed by the King, and I will give the best advice I can, but have "more need to be instructed, in such like case, by some of them than they by me." London, 14 June. Signed.
P.S.Begs them to show this letter to his friend Mr. Bryan.
Pp. 2. Add. Scaled. Endd. : 1543.
14 June.
Add. MS. 32,651, f. 27. B.M. Hamilton Papers, No. 384.
702. Suffolk to the Council.
Sends two letters received from Sir Thos. Wharton and Thos. Dacres, which show that Dacres cannot at present serve, but "the men will be ready."
Sir George Douglas was here yesterday and would be at London on Saturday. He told Suffolk of a Scottishman come to Newcastle from the Cardinal without the Governor's safe conduct. Sent Mr. Uvedale to search him and send him thither. Uvedale found on him only a letter from the young Queen of Scottes to the King, which Suffolk conjectures to be a demand for a passport. He said he was master of art and going to the school either to Lovayne or Coleyne, "but of Parys he spake nothing;" and he showed Suffolk the Queen's letter to the King, whereunto the Governor is privy, and a letter "from the earl of Huntley's brother to the secretary of Scotland that is ambassador with the King." Seeing these letters, Suffolk put in the passport of Wm. Ryvan, uncle to lord Ryvan, for whom Sadleyr had written, the name of the said Alex. Englisshe, M.A., so that they two might go together to the King. The Council should speak with Douglas before granting Ynglisshe his passport; for Suffolk could not stop him, having the Queen's letter. Sends two letters, from Sadleyr and the lord Warden, for (i.e. in favour of) Rivan. Darnton, 14 June. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : 1543.
14 June.
R.O.
703. Oxfordshire.
Covenant made between Sir John Wellysburn and Thos. Thorn, in presence of Wm. Gyfforde, Wm. Ryseleye, John Arden, Ric. Arden and Nic. Thorn, 14 June 35 Hen. VIII., for the sale to be duly made by Thorn to Wellysburn, for 30l., of lands in Mixburye and Fulwell, Oxon. Signed by parties and witnesses.
P. 1. Endd.
14 June.
R.O.
704. Adrian De Croy [Sieur De Roeulx] to Wallop.
The French, yesterday morning, laid siege to Bappalme with a large number of foot and horse and great equipage of artillery. Within are a good number of men of war well furnished, who, he hopes, will remain victorious. Will approach the enemy with all his forces here. Meanwhile, prays Wallop to aid the Emperor's men in his quarter if they need it. The Queen has written to me that the King promised her to do so; and I think he will do it for his friendship to the Emperor. Bethuen, 14 June '43. Signed.
French, p. 1. Add.
14 June.
Venetian Calendar (Brown), v. 117.
705. The Council Of Venice to Hieronimo Zuccato.
Note in his letters of the 19th ult. that the mission to Scotland of the patriarch of Aquileia may be interpreted so as to prejudice their subjects. Knew nothing of his sending; for the Pope, to whom, and not to the Signory, prelates render obedience sent him direct from the Papal Court. Agreed to, 14 June 1543.
Original at Venice.
15 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 146.
706. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Westm., 15 June. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Hertford, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Riche, Baker. Business :Letter written to Court touching request of the earls of Casseilles and Glenkerne for "deferring theirs and others' days of entry."
15 June.
R.O. St. P., IX. 411.
707. [The Privy Council] to Harvel.
The King thanks you for sundry advertisements and commands us to advertise you of the state of these parts. The Governor and Lords of Scotland have wholly submitted and are content that the King shall have the tuition and order of the young Queen. The King and Emperor lately sent their two principal heralds to Calais to propose, jointly, to the French king things which might have turned to the quiet of Christendom; but, as the French king refused to hear them, it is not unlike that another way will be taken "for declaration thereof to the world." The French king has in Picardy about 4,000 lances, 800 light horse and 20,000 or 22,000 foot ("the bruit is greater, but this is the truth"), and dare not march from about Compiegne "for fear of us;" and indeed the King now sends over 12,000 or 14,000 foot, and 2,000 horse to join Mons. de Rues and the duke of Ascot, who are in Artois with 18,000 foot and 4,000 horse, so that if the French king march forward "you shall hear that he hath fair play showed." When the Emperor comes, who is looked for shortly, the King has ready 40,000 of his own subjects, besides 16,000 Almains now in his solde and 6,000 Scots.
The King has some ships out and sends out more, and so does the Emperor, so that they will have an army of 10,000 or 12,000 to keep the seas. The duke of Cleves besieges Heynsberg which he lost last year. The prince of Orange is sent to levy the siege. All Irishmen of estimation have now submitted, so that never prince had so great a conquest of Ireland and Scotland.
Draft with corrections and final paragraph in Paget's hand, pp. 2. Endd. : Mynute to Mr. Harvell, xvo Junii 1543.
15 June.
R.O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II, No. 156.]
708. Chapuys to Charles V.
On the 12th inst. received the Emperor's letters of the 30th ult. containing the happy news of his prosperous arrival at Genoa, which has given indescribable joy to this King and Court and all this people. Nothing has happened since he last wrote. London, 15 June 1543.
French, p. 1. Modern transcript from Vienna.
15 June.
R.O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 157.]
709. Chapuys to Granvelle.
The copy herewith will declare occurrents. In default of other matter, laments that Granvelle was not with the Emperor at his departure from Spain, when, by his words to Chapuys's man and by letters from the Comendador Mayor, there was hope of Chapuys obtaining something. Perhaps much occupation made the Emperor forget, who may also have thought that Chapuys made some profit out of this treaty, whereas he spent 200 cr. and did not gain a single penny or penny's worth. London, 15 June 1543.
French, p. 1. Modern transcript from Vienna.
15 June.
R.O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No 158.]
710. Chapuys to the Queen Of Hungary.
On the 12th inst. received her letters of the 8th, together with those of the Emperor containing the much desired news of his prosperous arrival at Genoa, at which this King and those around him, and, generally, all this people, have shown much pleasure.
The day before yesterday, 13th inst., the Council sent praying him to write to Thoison d'Or to return to her as soon as Garter, who was recalled, left Calais. And yesterday the Council asked him to dinner, chiefly to declare that the King liked his advice to revoke the kings of arms, and, instead of their charge, make an intimation to the French ambassador, but as there were not here sufficient notable personages to solemnise the act, would defer the affair till his return, which will be in five days. Told the Councillors that he thought that the King should be present in person; and will try to obtain this. It is not yet resolved whether the charge of the kings of arms shall be explained purely to the ambassador or altered. Begs her to send her advice.
Hearing of the number of armed ships which the French have in the Channel itself, the King has sent out his that are ready, being ten or eleven, equipped in the best possible manner. As those of the enemies are the greater number, and will daily be reinforced, the King would desire her to order the ships of Flanders which are already equipped to join his, and to hasten the equipment of the men and ships capitulated by the treaty of closer amity. Soldiers daily march from hence to cross thither, and yesterday departed a band of 400 hacbuttiers in good order. It does not seem as if the King reckons on sending more than he is bound to in case of assistance, but, since he likes the enterprise of Monstreul, he will be induced to send largely. As to any other general invasion or enterprise this year, the Council say that the season is too advanced. As to the calculation of the number of men to be given for the said assistance, the Council have seen what she wrote and have not yet examined it (ny ont contreroulle).
The Council have made marvellous instance for the revocation of the impost of one per cent., to which the King would in no way consent. They cannot be made to understand that if their nation is exempt the others ought to be exempt, not having privilege as they had, which privilege was more valid and indissoluble than that of the clergy, which, as Chapuys alleged, had been for necessity abrogated. Both the Council and the merchants will be content if she orders the vendors to pay the impost and sell their wares dearer if they will or can; but they will in no wise hear speak of viewing and examining their merchandise in order to know the vendors, who could not well be known otherwise. And although they have been shown that it is not contrary to the treaty of intercourse to examine, upon occasion, merchandise leaving the Low Countries, and that the novelty of which the treaty spoke meant pecuniary and "interessable" novelty (otherwise they could exclaim because the new bourse in Antwerp was perhaps made further from the house of their nation than the old, or could oppose the making of a new crane), they persist in their opinion; and the Council have prayed him to supplicate her not to grieve this nation (which shows itself so affected to the Emperor's service) beyond what is accustomed, and to at once release their arrested merchandise; which done, they will get the merchants to make an honest present, worth no less than the impost will bring. If she can do so without great prejudice, it would be the best thing in the world as things now stand, and would increase the King's affection to the Emperor and Flanders. Otherwise it is to be feared that the King will resent it and the people (of whom there is now need) will murmur desperately. Certainly it has been imposed at a bad time. It is true that they cannot, in his opinion, complain of the examination, and yet they find that worse to digest than the rest; and, for the time, it would be well to omit both, in view of the said present.
The King finds it strange that so many safe conducts are there granted, saying that the sharpest war that could be made on the Frenchmen is to leave their merchandise on their backs and that he has incessant complaints from those who have armed out ships, on account of them. The other day the Privy Seal sent to tell Chapuys openly that they should not be given, for their men were determined to throw any safe conduct they found into the sea and to take all they could, coming from France.
The Council told him yesterday that they hourly expected George Douglaz, who, as their ambassador in Scotland advertised them, brought the very despatch that the King wishes for and demandsvery good news for them and their friends and a great blow to the French. London, 15 June 1543.
French, pp. 5. Modern transcript from Vienna.
15 June.
R.O.
711. Lisle to the Council At Court.
Is commanded to instruct the Admiral of Sluse where the King's ships do keep, but, till the King's instructions come, for which he wrote yesterday, he cannot well do so. Wrote to Mr. Bryan, on the 13th, of the coming of Thos. Wyndam from the West seas and his errand; "for the [which?] if he or his admiral (fn. 4) that sent him had well considered the matter he might as well have tarried there with[in] his charge." Wrote also of Wyndam's report of his admiral, which he says "is th'only desire of the residue of the captains there; and if that be true, surely he is not meet to have such a charge." Wyndam says they will do no service where they lie; and, considering that the French pour out ships as they do, the said four ships might well join the others now going to sea; and, together, they will soon "make clean seas." Desires answer in this, and also the instructions for Sir Rice Mansfeld whom the King now sends with 10 of his ships, as vice-admiral, and the warrant for Wm. Gonson.
A great Spaniard ship is arrived in Tayme[s], having come from Spain within these 9 days, and reports that 16 great ships were ready to come to Flanders with 7,000 Spanish footmen for the Emperor. London, 15 June. Signed.
Pp. 2. Slightly mutilated. Add.

R.O.
712. Sir Rice Maunsell's Instructions.
"and officers of the same ports, not only to keep the said 'prices' (prizes) surely, but also to see the goods safely kept to his Majesty's use," and to give notice of receipt of any such prize to the high Admiral of England. "And the King's pleasure is that the said Sir Rice shall not take any ship of Scotland, Portingall, Spayn, or Flaunders," or any of the Emperor's subjects unless they have hurt the King's subjects or would convey men, victuals or munitions into France. Nor shall he meddle with Danskers or ships of Estland unless equipped for war; but shall search ships of the King of Denmark for news and letters, and, in case of suspicion, detain them. Foreseeing ever that there be no spoil of the goods of any ship, Frenchman, Brytayn or other, he shall take, "ne in any wise that [h]e use those which be not F[rench]men or Brytayns * * * * till he shall know further of his Majesty's pleasure"; having regard to the bestowing of the men so as always to be master of them.
Fragment, pp. 2.
15 June.
R.O. St. P., IX. 409.
713. Oudart Du Bies to Lord Maltravers.
Received at the same hour his letter reporting revocation of his master's first king of arms and Francis's answer on the subject of Maltravers' previous letter. This answer is that, considering the friendship, the herald needs no safe conduct, but, considering the danger of the ways with so many lansquenets and other men of war abroad, he commissions Du Bies to hear and answer the herald. Promises an answer with which Henry will have "cause de raisonnable contentement."
Yesterday while three ships of Boulogne were passing Calais an English ship came out and took one of them. As there is no declaration of war between their masters, the other two ships made no resistance to this outrage. Begs deliverance of the ship and men. Boullougne, 15 June 1543. Signed.
French, p. 1. Add. : A Mons. le Deppute de Calais, mon bon voisin. Endd.
15 June.
R.O.
714. John Denny to his Uncle, Ant. Denny.
M. Buccelero writes that his uncle wishes him to come to England this Michaelmas. Having made a good beginning in learning, begs leave to stay a year or two longer, so that it may be known that he has been in Italy; and will pray God to inspire him to observe his uncle's loving admonitions. Begs to be commended to his aunt, and to his mother and father. Venetia, 15 June '43. Signed : Joanni Deny.
P. 1. Add. : "Al molto magco sigor, il sigor Antonio Deni, gentilhuomo della camera del serenmo Re d'Inghilterra, mio barba ossermo; nella Corte."

Footnotes

  • 1. See No. 615.
  • 2. Davidson.
  • 3. On the 28th March, 1528. See Vol. IV. No. 4109.
  • 4. John Winter ?