Henry VIII: September 1543, 11-15

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 18 Part 2, August-December 1543. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1902.

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'Henry VIII: September 1543, 11-15', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 18 Part 2, August-December 1543, (London, 1902) pp. 86-97. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol18/no2/pp86-97 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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September 1543, 11-15

11 Sept.
Add. MS. 32,652, f. 74. B. M. Hamilton Papers, II., No. 28.
169. Henry VIII. to Angus.
As the revolt of the Governor and his familiarity with the Cardinal indicates displeasure to be wrought against him and his brother Sir George Duglas, the King has laid to heart his preservation. Wrote before to him and other friends, by advice of Sir George, to encourage them; and now eftsoons writes to him apart further advice, to be declared to the rest by mouth without letting them know the receipt of this letter. He shall assemble such of the King's friends as he thinks meet, and (upon the occasion of the King's former letters, reminding them how the Cardinal has "compassed" the Governor to his own purpose, and to their confusion if they likewise put themselves into his hands, and how they are assured of aid if they keep promise to the King), without delay approach Stirling or Edinburgh, where the Governor and Cardinal shall chance to be, and take Stirling, the Governor, the Cardinal and the young Queen into their hands. If their forces are not together they should set forth towards Stirling with their household servants and such as they can presently gather, leaving friends secretly to bring to them the rest of their forces, and should "parliament" with the Governor and Cardinal about hostages for their surety if they come in, until able to go through with their purpose; thus using the same policy as the Cardinal used to confound them. The King will aid them with money, and, as Sir George has advertised him, will send 2,000 or 3,000 men by sea to Tentallon, if he will let the King for the time have the use of it, and also send 8,000 or 10,000 men by land; which will make them so strong that the Governor and Cardinal with all their adherents shall not be able to "defend them."
ii. "[And as ye shall find our said friends affected in this matter, and what your mind is concerning Tentallon and the delivery of it into our hands for this purpose, we require you to advertise us with diligence, to the intent we may put all things in execution accordingly.] Signifying unto you that we have already put things in such arredynesse as without any tract of time we shall furnish you and them of men and money as is before written; whereunto ye may assuredly trust."
f. 76. iii. [Henry VIII. to Suffolk.] (fn. 1)
["for the ordering of themselves, either they be or shortly may be of such force and strength as shall be able to surprise the said Governor and Cardinal, and suddenly, or they can prepare strength to resist them, to work our desired purpose and their own surety, we think it now most expedient and necessary that they call to remembrance] how the Cardinal hath compassed the Governor to his own purpose and to their confusion," &c. (as above in i. to the end).
[This should not be written but signified to them by mouth at Douglasse by some person to be sent with your letter of credence. You shall send for George Douglas to express the same to him by mouth. If it appears that they will follow our counsel, you shall prepare 8,000 or 10,000 men, and we shall put our seamen ready. If they shrink from it "we shall the rather decipher what they intend towards] (fn. 2)
"As to the help which George Douglas privately demandeth,
"Aid to the rest.
"Garrisons for the East Marches.
"Delivery of Sir Thomas Wharton's prisoners into the inland.
"The rode for the lord Hume."
Corrected drafts, the first sheet containing i. and ii. being in Gardiner's hand, and iii. in Wriothesley's, pp. 8. Endd. : Mynute to therle of Anguish, xjo Septembris, 1543.
11 Sept.
Add. MS. 32,652, f. 67. B. M. Hamilton Papers, II., No. 25.
170. Suffolk to the Council.
Has received their letters dated Grafton, 9th inst., showing that in case the Scots will not wholly agree to the performance of the treaties, an army of 16,000 is to enter Scotland, half by the West Borders and Carlyle and half by Barwycke, and that Wharton shall provide victuals and carriage for 12,000 men. Has sent for Wharton and four or five of the wisest there, to know their opinions touching the victuals and carriage, and what exploit may be done considering the time of year. Has also sent for the lord Warden to bring 5 or 6 of the wisest men, to advise what may be done by those who enter in by Barwycke, and to know what the Borderers may do in victualling the army. Has also sent to Mr. Shelley to know what victuals and carriage he can get. Advised that some of the King's friends in Scotland should meet with him and the lord Warden to give their advice; and still thinks this most necessary, and that the King should write to them to do so. Darnton, 11 Sept. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd. : 1543.
11 Sept.
R. O.
171. Suffolk and Tunstall to [Parr].
Enclose a packet of letters to be conveyed to Mr. Sadleyr with all possible speed; not opening it, for the four copies herewith, sent to Suffolk, show the contents of the despatch, which copies they beg him to return with his next letters. Sandy Pringle, whom, at your suit, the King has accepted to his service, should be pricked forward to perform his promise ("that a certain of his surname should be ready at all times to serve the King") and the King "ascertained" what service to expect of him. Darnton, 11 Sept. Signed.
P. 1. Fly leaf with address lost.
11 Sept.
R. O. St. P., v. 336.
172. Suffolk to [Parr].
As the King minds, if the Scots will not observe the treaties, to invade Scotland with a great army, Suffolk has sent for Wharton, because half that army should enter by the West Borders; and requires Parr to bring hither on Sunday next some of the most expert men of his Borders, to consult how the army may be furnished with victuals and carriage, and what may be done "considering the time of the year." He must leave some person to forward letters out of Scotland, and also captains on his Borders. Please send the letter herewith to Mr. Shelley that he may come with you. Darnton, 11 Sept. Signed.
P. 1. Fly leaf with address lost.
11 Sept.
Add. MS. 32,652, f. 85. B. M. Hamilton Papers, II., No. 30 (1).
173. Wharton to Parr.
According to Parr's command, and his own letter of the 9th, appointed men, as in the schedule herewith, to annoy with fire and sword the head of the Ledesdalles. Through lack of numbers, bad weather and ill rule, they have not done their enterprise as it was intendedas his cousin and deputy, Sir John Lowther, who was with them, reports. The men of these Marches are not, through "untruth, pride and disdain," in due order to serve the King, nor "as they were afore Seynt Kateryne eve last." Carlisle, 11 Sept.
P.S.One whom he sent to Mr. Symple in Scotland for news was, in his return, robbed beside Anande of his horse and goods, and letters of Mr. Symple taken from him. Symple told him to say that Wharton "should trust no Scottish man for any strength by them." There are "spoils and robberies and open day forrays" in Anerdale. Has written to Maxwell "for reformation of that robbery, with their names that did the same." Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. : To, etc., lord Parr, lord Warden of all the Marches foranent Scotland. Endd. : 1543.
Ib. f. 86. 2. "The numbers appointed by Sir Thomas Wharton, knight, to burn and waste with fire and sword all in the head of Ledesdall, the xth of September."
Sir John Louther, with 220 horsemen of Wharton's; Jake Musgrave for Becastledaill, Thos. Blanerasset for Gilleslande, Ricchie Grame and his brethren for Heske and Levin, and Kyrklington, horse and foot; the bailiff of Burghe 100 horsemen, the bailiff of Graystoke 60, John Bost for Kyrkoswald 20, the bailiff of Skaylby 30, Thos. Falofelde of the Quens Hames 100, and the bailiff of Blekell 20. Many of these came not. They burnt 19 houses, slew two men and took three, and brought away 12 score nowt and much insight. They left 95 of the nowt with the Elwades upon surety. Signed : Thomas Whartton.
P. 1.
11 Sept.
Add. MS. 32,652, f. 69. B. M. Hamilton Papers, II., No. 26. Sadler State Papers, I. 287.
174. Sadler to Henry VIII.
To feel whether the Cardinal and his complices had altered the Governor's inclination to the King and the performance of the treaties, and also to learn proceedings at Stirling, sent Henry Raye, pursuivant of Berwick, to him with a letter (copy and the Governor's answer enclosed). By mouth the Governor said he would do his best to observe the treaties, and more he could not do. Concludes that the Cardinal and his complices would interrupt the peace and win the Governor; who, however, would gladly slip from them, but they keep a watch upon him. If he come to Edinburgh as his answer purports, Sadler will learn more.
Angus, Glencarn, Casselles, Maxwell, Somervile and Sir George Douglas, with their friends, as lords Ogleby, Grey, Glammes, &c., notwithstanding letters of the Governor and of the Cardinal and his complices containing fair words and requests to come to Stirling to the Coronation of the Queen, refuse to join them unless they will "conform themselves to the accomplishment of the said treaties." Angus has assembled, at his house of Dowglas, Glencarne, Casselles, Maxwell, Somervile, the sheriff of Ayer and laird of Donlaneryke, who have subscribed a bond to abide together and sent it to the rest of their friends to subscribe. Yesterday, Maxwell and Donlaneryke came to Sadler from the others to declare this and require him to notify the King that they would stick together to him, trusting that he would aid them. They beg to know soon the King's pleasure what they shall do, and meanwhile will keep themselves from the malice of their enemies. Angus ("who is much moved with the Governor's revolt") keeps a great company at Dowglas. Encloses letters from him, and from him and Glencarn and Casselles jointly. The young Queen was crowned on Sunday last, at Stirling, with the solemnity used here, "which is not very costly." Hears that they are about to choose a Council of 8 temporal and 8 spiritual men of those now assembled at Stirling. Edinburgh, 11 Sept., at night. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.
11 Sept.
Add. MS. 32,652, f. 72. B. M. Hamilton Papers. II., No. 27.
175. Sadler to Suffolk and Tunstall.
This day, received theirs of the 9th, with those from "the Council above." For news refers to his letters, herewith, to the King. As to the French ships, which, as they hear, are arrived at Donbreteyn; that has been often bruited here by such as would fain have it so, but none are arrived, "nor I think will not this year." Is so well here intreated that the Provost sends two messengers daily to pray him to keep himself and his folks within his house, as the people so rage against him. Yesterday one of his servants went into the town without his knowledge, and a villain, sent to pick a quarrel with him, called him English dog and spoke such despiteful words of the King as no Englishman having a heart in his stomach could bear; whereat he drew his dagger and strake the villain overthwart the face, and would have killed him but for a Scottish man. Whereupon, 20 drawn swords were about his said servant, who was wounded in sundry parts, and had been killed if he had not defended himself like a man. He is sore wounded in the head, but the surgeons think he will live. Is threatened to have as much himself. "Under the sun live not more beastly and unreasonable people than here be of all degrees." Edinburgh, 11 Sept., at midnight. Signed.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd. : 1543.
11 Sept.
R. O. St. P., v. 335.
176. Sadler to [Parr].
Received his letters of the 10th; and now sends herewith letters to the King and to Suffolk and Durham, to be forwarded. Where Parr desires to know how he is entreated; never so noble a Prince's servant was so evil entreated, and "never man had to do with so rude, so inconstant and beastly a nation as this is, for they neither esteem the honor of their country ne their own honesty, ne yet (which they ought principally to do) their duty to God, and love and charity to their Christian brethren." Parr can conjecture how pleasant a time he has, and this packet to Suffolk and Durham will show how he has been handled. Edinburgh, 11 Sept.
Hol., p. 1. Fly leaf, with address, lost.
11 Sept.
R. O. St. P., IX. 508.
177. Wotton to Henry VIII.
Forwards copy of a letter which the Regent sent him, showing what the Emperor will do with his army. They are already sent, in three companies, to invade France. This unlooked for success in Gelderland and sudden invasion of France will trouble the French king's reckonings; and although the season is far spent, the Emperor hopes to do some notable exploit before the winter.
This day the Emperor is at Nieumay or Nimmeghe, the chief town of Geldres, where the three estates of Geldres and Zutphan make their submission. Those who kneeled with the Duke of Cleves were Duke Henry of Bruynswyke, the earl of Schawenburgh, coadjutor to the bp. of Coleyn, the earl of Newenare and Dr. Groper, of Coleyn. The Emperor has commanded the three estates of these Low Countries to be at Bruxelles on Saturday next, where, probably, he himself and the Regent will be. By conjecture one of the causes will be a subsidy. The Regent comes from Weerdt by way of Andwerpe, to borrow money. Yesterday the Emperor caused mass to be said here for the souls of his soldiers slain at Duren. Many Spaniards attended (partly of the company of the duke of Neigerez, who came hither diseased, and partly of the bp. of St. James in Compostella and other spiritual men, who were sent from the camp before), for the loss was chiefly of their countrymen. Lovain, 11 Sept. 1543.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
11 Sept.
R. O. St. P., IX. 513.
178. Charles V. to the General Of The English Army In Flanders.
Received his letter of the 5th containing his conversation with Scepperus; and, although Arschot and De Roeulx will have informed him of the Emperor's determination to come thither, writes to assure him that he (Charles) will be in that quarter on the 24th or 26th hist.; and prays him, as the term is short and a good effect probable, to remain until then. Has sent a gentleman to the King about this and is sure he will be content. Venlo, 11 Sept. 1543. Signed.
French, p. 1. Countersigned :Bave. Add. : A notre treschier et bien ame, le chief et capitaine general de l'armee du Roy d'Angleterre, Mons. notre bon frere, estant en nos Pays d'embas, et en son absence an mareschal de ladite armee. Endd.
R. O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 229.] 2. Original draft of the preceding.
French, p. 1. Modern transcript from a Vienna MS., headed : Minute.
12 Sept.
R. O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 230.]
179. Charles V. to Chapuys.
Wrote on the 29th ult. To advertise the King of England, according to the perfect amity between them, of what has happened since, despatches the Sieur de Chantonay, gentleman of his mouth; from whom Chapuys will learn his charge. Venlo, 12 Sept. 1543.
French, p. 1. Modern transcript from Vienna.
Add. MS. 28,173, f. 313. B. M. Granvelle Papiers d'Etat, II. 678. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., Nos, 227-8.] 2. Charles V.'s "instruction a vous, le sieur de Chantonnay, nostre gentilhomme de la bouche, de ce qu'aurez a dire, remonstrer et poursuyr devers le roy d'Angleterre, nostre tres cher et bon frere et cousin, ou presentement vous envoyons."
To go, with all speed, to the Ambassador there resident, present the Emperor's letters and declare his own charge; in order that he may, by his advice, and jointly with him, deal with the King and Council. Then, presenting to the King the letters of credence for both, he shall say that the Emperor supposes that the said Ambassador has declared the Emperor's progress hither, as late as last letters of 29th ult., and now sends him to give a more ample account, and also to relate events since, such as the taking of Remonde, the surrender of the towns of Julliers, the siege of this town of Venlo, and the coming of the duke of Cleves, accompanied by the Coadjutor and other ambassadors of the elector of Cologne and by the duke of Brunswick, to make submission and offer surrender of Gueldres and Zutphen, with the substance of the treaty made. He shall add that the Emperor now awaits the coming of the deputies of Gueldres to give their oath of fidelity; and shall point out what a blow the reduction of the said Duke of Cleves will be to France, who will thereby also lose the alliances of Denmark, Sweden and other "princes et villes australes," to the advantage of the coasts of England and Scotland as well as of Spain and the Low Countries. The Emperor's aim has always been to correspond with the King against the common enemy; and, therefore, he has received the Duke with clemency (in spite of his misdeeds in joining with France to aid the Turk) so as to be free on this side, while the season yet lasts, for some good exploit upon France, who has occupied towns in Luxemberg and also Landreschies, and is now making every effort to assemble men of war, French, Italian and Swiss, against the Emperor; who, however, hopes, before the winter, to occupy some places in France towards the joint enterprise of next year. As to the Englishmen here, the Emperor prays the King (as he has also written to their captain and marshal), that they may await his coming to them; when he will decide what to do, and the King may either use them in that or in some exploit on Picardy, or withdraw them. But, as this expedition will greatly further the future enterprise, Chantonnay shall beg the King to assist the Emperor with one month's pay of this army, only 150,000 cr. Would not trouble him with this were it possible to get money in Germany or the Low Countries; but the Emperor could not procure so much ready money, though he had expected to be assisted here, as he would have been but for the great cost to these countries of this war of Cleves (sic) and against the said duke of Cleves. If the King withdraws the said English, he will avoid the expense in which the Emperor must still continue for the common benefit; which the Emperor trusts that the King will regard, since he is well able to assist with the said sum. And Chantonnay shall make the Emperor's affectionate recommendations to the lords and good personages about the King and commend this request to them, and return as soon as he can. Done in our camp before Venlo, 12 Sept. 1543. Signed : Charles. Countersigned : Bave.
ii. [Private instruction.]
Besides what is contained in his instruction, which may be shown to the King of England if required (although it would be a bad precedent to show despatches unless to avoid giving rise to suspicion, and in that case what should not be shown shall be written apart), Chantonnay and the ambassador shall try to induce him to furnish the sum mentioned gratuitously; and, failing that, shall ask it as a loan to be repaid in four or five months, when money can be had from Spain, of that which is come from the Indies, or obtained in the Low Countries. Signed : Charles. Countersigned : Bave.
French. Modern transcript from Brussels, pp. 11.
Add. MS. 28,593, f. 242. B. M. 3. Another modern transcript of 2. from Brussels.
French, pp. 6.
13 Sept.
Add. MS. 32,652, f. 79. B. M. Hamilton Papers, II., No. 29.
180. Suffolk and Tunstall to the Council.
Enclose letters from Sadler to the King and to the writers, a copy of Sadler's letter to the Governor and the Governor's answer, letters to Sadler from Angus, and from Angus, Glencarne and Casselles jointly, a letter from Sir George Douglas to the lord Warden, and one from the lord Warden to Suffolk, with a letter and schedule sent from Wharton to the lord Warden.
The Council's letters of the 11th directed Suffolk to send for Sir George Douglas and declare the effect of the letter to Angus, grope what his resolution will be therein, and feed him with money though it cost 200l. or 300l. Has sent for Douglas. Sadler's letters show that the King's friends stick to their promise; and, as they are too poor to retain the men they need, Suffolk means to put a little more to that which is to be employed about Sir George Douglas, so as to let them have some money amongst them at this beginning, for money has hitherto allured them to the King's purpose; but he will not be lavish till he knows the King's pleasure. Will promise Douglas, at his coming, the aid of the King's garrisons, and take order with the lord Warden therein. Darnton, 13 Sept. signed.
P.S.The King's letter to Angus is already sent to Sir George Douglas to convey, and the copy of it in cipher sent to Sadler. The hostages shall be removed from Carlisle, and more men laid in garrison on the East and Middle marches as directed.
Pp. 3. Add. Sealed. Endd. : 1543.
13 Sept.
Add. MS. 32,652, f. 81. B. M. Hamilton Papers, II., No. 30.
181. Parr to Suffolk.
Signified last night that by next despatch he would send Sandy Pringill's report, which is :
The Governor and Cardinal, on the 4th inst., met at Fawekirke and, agreeing well, rode that night to Stirling, where Lennox, Huntley, Argile and Bothwell met them and concluded that the Queen should be crowned on the Sunday after, and the Governor agreed to deliver the castles and holds of Scotland to the keeping of the Cardinal and the said earls. On Friday before the coronation the Governor declared the things laid to him on behalf of the King, including suppression of sundry abbeys and friars, and said "that by his consent the Friars of Dundee was sacked." All, thereupon, said that he was accursed; and on Saturday he was enjoined to pass to the Friars of Stirling, with the said lords, where he "received open penance and a solemn oath" never to do it again, but support the profession "of monks, friars and such other," and was absolved by the Cardinal and bishops, and received the Sacrament, Bothwell holding the towel over his head. That afternoon the Governor remitted all his proceedings to the advice of the Cardinal and others. On Sunday last, at 10 a.m., in the chapel of Stirling Castle, they crowned their Queen, the Governor bearing the crown, Lennox the sceptre, and Argile the sword. They were all determined to be at Edinburgh this day, and to send for all noblemen to come thither who were not at the coronation. They say generally that they will have no peace with England but after the old sort, and will not deliver the Queen according to the treaty. They heard nothing since midsummer of their expected supply of ships and money from France. They doubted not but all the noblemen in whom the King of England trusted would shortly consider their duty to their country, unless it were Angus; and if he would not obey them "they would put him in jeopardy of exile." Pringill heard the Cardinal laugh when word was brought of the burning of the Carres lands in Tividale, and say "Th'Englishmen saith that ever we begin with them, but now they begin with us." And thereupon the Humes, Carres and Bukclough were called before the Governor and Cardinal, and undertook to annoy England and "defend their Borders till the coming of the white coats." Pringill heard the Cardinal say that ere the King of England had interest in Scotland he and many of the clergy would die; and saw him ride in harness as if to battle. He heard Argile report how he had burnt the isle of Glentire, (fn. 3) "which is one Makcannons," (fn. 4) killed 10,000 oxen and kine, taken 1,800 horse and mares, and left his brother Margregour to keep it till his return. Argile then turned to the Governor and said "My lord, if ye had sticked still with the King of England, your land lying as it doth, . . . . I would have left you little or none of it standing unburned." Pringill came homewards by Craton castle, lord Maxwell's, where Maxwell said "he was determined to enter, for the saving of such lands as he hath of the Queen in Gallawaye, and to take neither partie." When the Governor departed from Edinburgh to Black Nash, he did on new harness, and his wife, one of the Douglasses, said "'What ! go ye about to do that which ye have promised ? Though your coat be sure and strong, your heart is dull and faint'and therewith wept." Pringill heard Argile say that if Casselles, Moungomerye and the sheriff of Ayre "came not to him according to their band of manred" he would have their lands. They intend still to treat with Mr. Sadleyr for peace, hoping for the aid of France. The Dowager will give all her jointure in Scotland to the lords who have guard of the Queen, for her, and depart into France. The lord of Craggie is one of her chamber, and well esteemed.
The Cardinal told Pringill that, the 5th day after his committal, he gave George Douglas 400 cr., and after that he was removed to lord Seton's place; and Douglas and Seton, being brother and sister's children, devised his loosing from thence upon agreement that Seton's two daughters should marry the laird of Lastirryk and lord Hume's son and heir (one of whom is married and the other shall be). They then let him go to St. Andrews, upon the bond of four lords, whereof Seton was one, that he should not depart thence without the Governor's leave; and thereupon Douglas and the laird of Grange rode to St. Andrews and released him of that bond. The Cardinal said he marvelled that Douglas was against his loosing and the cancelling of the bond; and Douglas replied that that was true, but he did it because otherwise it would have been done by others, and he would have the Cardinal know "that it was none but he that loosed him."
Wrote that as many of the garrisons as could be spared were appointed to aid Douglas, upon his requisition. Finds that the captains fear that, being but a handful, they will be betrayed to their enemies; but they will do as the King commands. Will bring Pringill with him, and meanwhile the premises may be notified to the King to show the intents of the Scots, which Pringill declares to be nothing but fraud. Warkwourthe, 13 Sept. Signed.
Pp. 6. Add. Sealed. Endd. : 1543.
13 Sept.
R. O.
182. Queen Mary of Hungary to Henry VIII.
Although, by the Sieur de Chantonnay, gentleman of the Emperor's mouth, bearer of these, Henry will learn the success in Gheldres, she cannot refrain from imparting to him her joy (esjoyssement). Credence for Chantonnay. Viersen en la campigne, 13 Sept. 1543. Signed.
French, p. 1. Add. Sealed, Endd.
13 Sept.
Add. MS. 28,593, f. 245. B. M. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 231.]
183. Francis I. to the Landgrave of Hesse.
Wrote on the 10th inst. of his intention. Sent Orleans to Luxemburg, and was to follow with the rest of his forces, to succour his relative and free Germany from fear of the Tyrant. Now news has come from the Emperor's camp that the duchy of Juliers has surrendered to the Emperor, and that Henry duke of Brunswick has obtained for the Duke of Cleves terms beyond expectation; that the Duke himself has replied with regret that he desires no aid from Francis, and that he could give no hope of supplies either in the bishoprics of Treves and Cologne, or even in his own dominions. (fn. 5) If so, what is Francis to do ? Will, however, await with troops the issue of conferences at Neuss ("Consiliorum Novesianorum,") and persist in his intention if the Duke wishes it. This was one part of his said letters, the other part concerns the Landgrave, and his friends, and they will do well to ponder it in time. Writes for two reasons. (1) to tell them that he would never have abandoned the Duke of Cleves. even though he had to postpone victory over the English and Belgians; and (2) to offer help to remedy the present evils. Datum ex urbe nostra Sancti Manehildis. 13 Sept. 1543.
Lat. Modern transcript from Simancas, pp. 2.
14 Sept.
Add. MS. 32,652, f. 88. B. M. Hamilton Papers, II., No. 3].
184. Henry VIII. to Suffolk.
Since his former letters signifying what he wrote to Angus (to surprise the Cardinal and Governor),which, he fears, will not be done as earnestly as he wished, although they may follow his advice to come to a place of surety nigh Edinburgh and there "parliament" with the Governor and Cardinal,remembering that Suffolk has put ready 15,000 spears and archers on horseback, 8,000 of which, assembled on pretence of a raid upon the Humes and Carres, might pass through to Edinburgh, with victual for 8 or 10 days, without resistance by the power of Scotland, has debated with his Council and finds it feasible for 8,000 under Suffolk's leading, with such captains as he may choose (whereof the lord Warden may be one), either to surprise Edinburgh with the Governor and Cardinal in it, or else to burn the town, and the country in their return, sparing the King's friends. Lest they should fly by sea 5 or 6 ships must be immediately sent from Newcastle and Berwick into the Frith; and if they fly by Stirling the King's party may "let" them. As the Scots have not observed the treaty the King may with honor punish them. The journey is not past 40 miles from Warke. If they set forth in the evening, sending for Sir George Douglas on pretence that the purpose is to harry the Humes and Carres, they may rest the next day, and next evening set forward to be at Edinburgh in the morning; and then only disclose the whole enterprise to him, and make him warn the other lords lest the Cardinal and Governor steal away by Sterling bridge. If surprised in Edinburgh they (the Governor and Cardinal) must enter into the castle, which for lack of victual must yield within four days. In any case the town may be, at least, burnt in spite of the castle; and that and the damage done in the return will be worth the charges of the enterprise, which also shall be done without danger, as Scotland is so divided. Little ordnance will be necessary, but some culverins, demiculverins and fawcons should be carried, and "shifts of draughts" for them taken, so as not to impede the enterprise.
This is to be executed incontinently if Suffolk can in anywise furnish it.
Copy, pp. 7. Endd. : Mynute to the duke of Suffolk, xiiijo Septembris 1543.
Add. MS.
32,652, f. 169. B. M. Hamilton Papers, II., No. 52.
185. The Privy Council to Suffolk.
As the King perceives from him that the Scots go about to reinforce their Borders and make exploits within this realm, like as the writers, in former letters, declared the King's pleasure for augmenting the garrisons as Suffolk and the Council with him should think expedient, so now Suffolk is to make proclamations (1) that whatsoever Scottishman will come in to the King's warden and give pledges that he and his shall make no raid into England nor hurt any Englishmen invading Scotland shall have his lands and goods saved harmless; and that no friend of the King's prisoners shall join any raid into England or go against Englishmen in Scotland on pain of immediate execution if taken prisoner. If Suffolk perceives that the prisoners go not "upon a very straight foot" with the King, he shall call for all to enter; but, if he perceives that such as are accounted the King's friends act uprightly, he shall only call for entry of such as are of the adverse partyfixing a day for their entry, on pain of the execution of their pledges, and having a good eye that, on publication of these things, the pledges do not escape. He shall immediately write to Angus, Clenkern, Maxwell and Sir George Douglas to warn their friends against being doers in the intended displeasures to England, and in no wise to rise against Englishmen who enter Scotland; on pain of instant execution if taken or, if they escape, of ever after being used as manifest enemies.
Draft in Mason's hand, corrected by Wriothesley, pp. 2. Endd. : Mynute to the duke of Suffolk.
14 Sept.
Add. MS. 32,652, f. 92. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No, II., 32.
186. Tunstall to Henry VIII.
Thanks for his letter dated Amptell, 4 Sept., and the six pasties of red deer brought, with it, by his servants Ric. Smyth and Thos. Arundell; which kind remembrance of his "humble and old servant" makes the writer younger by ten years. "Where the hart is a beast of long life, the flesh of him killed with a king's hand and sent by his servants with his comfortable letters declaring that he remembreth his old servant, being so far from him, must needs engender in him to whom it is sent a renewing of old spirits." Darnton, 14 Sept.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd. : 1543.
14 Sept.
R. O. St. P., IX. 510.
187. Wallop and Others to Henry VIII.
Enclose letters from the Emperor received this 13th (sic) Sept. Have not yet received Henry's answer to their letters of the 4th. This day the Great Master showed Wallop letters from the Lady Regent containing that Henry had written to her for certain arquebusiers to be sent to Calais; the Great Master saying that he would see to it with speed. Have always found him of a gentle demeanour and frank and valiant courage. Hope that, at their return home, he may have the conduct of them, and thereby to take Mustrell or burn Base Boleyn. Arschot, who is departed this day to Quesno for a day or two to take medicine and repose, desires to be commended to Henry.
Arschot and the Great Master are informed that the French king has written to Vandosme, in case the Emperor repair into Picardy, to burn and destroy his own country about Perronne and St. Quintyn, "like as they did at the Emperor's coming into Provynce." Camp of Fountayne au Boys, a mile from Landresey, 14 Sept. Signed : John Wallop, T. Seymour, Rich. Crumwell, Robert Bowis. G. Carew, J. Seynt John, J.(?) R[ay]nsforth.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : 1543.
15 Sept.
Add. MS. 32,652, f. 94. B. M. Hamilton Papers, II, No. 33. Sadler State Papers, I. 290.
188. Sadler to the Council.
Has received the King's letters of 9 Sept., with copies of those to Suffolk and to the well affected lords here, which last were delivered to Sir George Dowglas at Berwick on Wednesday last. The old Queen Dowager, Governor, Cardinal, Huntley, Murrey, Lenoux, Argile and Bothwell intend to be here on Monday or Tuesday next. While at Stirling, they have chosen a Council to direct the Governor; whereof the Dowager shall be reputed principal, the rest being the Cardinal, the abp. of Glasgow, who is Chancellor, the bps. of Murrey, Orkeney, Gallowaye and Donbleyn, the abbots of Pastle and Cowper, the earls of Anguysshe, Huntley, Murrey, Argile, Lenoux, Glencarn, Bothwell and the earl Marshal. Yesterday lord Flemyng and the abbot of Pastle were sent to Anguysshe, to declare how he is chosen one of the principal of the Council and persuade him and the rest to convene here on Wednesday next. Whether they will come unless assured that the treaties shall be performed is doubtful. Maxwell, believing that the Cardinal and whole nobility will condescend to the treaties in all points rather than abide the extremity of war, labours to bring this convention to pass, as Anguisshe and he and their partakers may in this town safely convene with the adverse party, and so feel their minds; but, if they cannot bring it to pass peaceably that the treaties shall be performed, they will, as far as Sadler can perceive, remain ready to serve the King according to their promise. If this convention take effect it will appear within this sevennight whether the treaties are to be performed; and, if not, Angus, Glencarn, Casselles, Maxwell and Somervell and their friends will dissever themselves from the rest; but they are not able, without the King's power, to repress the adverse party, "wherefore, if, in case of non performance of the treaties (whereof I have no great hope)," the King is driven to use force, he should send no less a power than if he had no friends here at all. The Cardinal, Lenoux, Huntley, Argile and Bothwell, with the whole rabble of the Kirkmen, cannot agree that pledges should be laid in England for the marriage, or that the Queen should leave the realm until of age to marry; so that it is thought this convention will essay to induce the King to relent in these points. Will meanwhile learn men's affections here and solicit answer to the King's late letters to Angus, Glencarn, Casselles and the rest.
Received the King's letters to the Provost here and to the town, and had them forthwith delivered to the Provost, who sent them to Stirling to the Governor. Yesterday the Provost and four of the chief of the town came to Sadler to offer services and assure him that things should be amended; and the Provost apart thanked him for his good report to the King, and seemed glad of the King's letter; so it seems that the letters have wrought some good, though "the common people of this town are much offended with the sharpness of the same." Trusts that now they will leave him in more quietness, and the better if they have their ships restored, for which some of the honest sort request him to write; and, indeed, if he is to tarry here long, he would be a suitor for it. Edinburgh, 15 Sept., at night. Signed.
Pp. 6. Add. Sealed. Endd.
15 Sept.
R. O.
189. Wallop to the Council.
Yesterday we left Fonteine au Boys and are now encamped half an English mile from Landersey; being saluted at our coming with shots of many great pieces of ordnance divided among the Duke's camp, the Great Master's and ours, which killed but one boy, Burgundian. Here we make trenches and bridges awaiting the Emperor's coming. Encloses copy of a letter from the Queen to the Duke, and also articles sworn between the Emperor and duke of Cleves. Sends them by bearer, Wm. Browne, who repairs into England for his necessary affairs; for the King's ambassador might report them but not the news of Landersey. Landersey, 15 Sept., "at afternoon." Signed.
P.S.This day they of Landersey have shot no ordnance, but have sent away 30 carts. "At this present hour I received advertisement of the Great Master that Ardre should have been revictualled on Thursday or Friday last. The likelihood thereof I advertised my lord Deputy of Calais twice within fourteen or fifteen days."
P. 1. Add. Endd. : 1543.
15 Sept.
R. O.
190. R. Fane to Sir Henry Knyvet.
Thanks for his letter of the 11th. Would have written by Nich. Alysander, Mr. Captain General's servant, but he made great haste away and there was no news to write. Have moved camp and now lie on the north side of Laundercy, towards Flanders, for access of victuals. Describes the position of Laundercy and of their camp, and the fortifications of the town; which is garrisoned by 3,000 pioneers, who have made it "three times stronger than when we came first towards it," and, if left now, would make it invincible. We are making a bridge over the river, westward,not to move our camp (for that we leave to the Emperor's coming), but "to compel them to enter into their mewe somewhat before the season of the year require it." They are victualled for four months, "very liberal of gunshot," and "they hate us most of all nations."
This day came news from the Emperor's court to "Mouns. Gramater" as follows :On the 7th, a treaty was made between the Emperor and duke of Cleves, the Emperor having all Gelders and Zutyfen, and restoring Gulik except the strong towns of Isberg and Zytter, and receiving Ravestene town and castle upon promise of recompense. The Emperor will be at Brussels on Tuesday next, and at Valentian on the 23rd or 24th. Orleans has besieged Lusenbourghe, and the Emperor has sent 20,000 men to levy the siege. With the Emperor come 40,000 of his best soldiers.
It is thought that half the Emperor's force will invade France by Arras, and the rest join us here. Does not vouch for this nor the "rest that is transumed out of Mounsr. Gramater's letter." From the camp, 15 Sept., 5 p.m. Signed.
P.S.Commend me to Mr. Barklay, Mr. Philip Hoby, and Mr. George Blage, otherwise called Tom Trubbe.
"I wish honor, long life and quiet minds unto my lady Margaret's (fn. 6) grace, and my lady Richemont, and no less to my lord of Surrey."
Pp. 3. Add.

Footnotes

  • 1. This apparently is part of a draft despatch to Suffolk. transmitting the preceding. See No. 184.
  • 2. Cancelled.
  • 3. Tiree.
  • 4. Mackinnon's.
  • 5. The Duke of Cleves.
  • 6. . . . . "egre etiam responsum esse ab ipso Duce Cliviensi num me opera ferre velit, nee spem dari non solum in Treveriensi atque Coloniensi episcopatu. sed ne in ipsius quidem ditione commeatus atque alimonie."
  • 7. Lady Margaret Douglas?