Henry VIII: June 1544, 21-25

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 19 Part 1, January-July 1544. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1903.

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'Henry VIII: June 1544, 21-25', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 19 Part 1, January-July 1544, (London, 1903) pp. 457-475. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol19/no1/pp457-475 [accessed 19 April 2024]

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June 1544, 21-25

21 June. 749. The Navy.
Add. MS.
5,752, f. 61.
B. M.
Order by Gardiner and St. John to "Hungerforde" to deliver to Thos. Rolf, customer of Sandwich, for the King's ships upon the Narrow Seas, 500 qr. wheat of the 1,500 qr. in his hands. 21 June, 36 Hen. VIII. Signed.
P. 1.
21 June. 750. Mary Queen of Scots to Henry VIII.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 53.
B. M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 271.
Notwithstanding his unkind war upon her since her father's death, when he should rather have extended his puissance to her protection, she wishes him to understand the mind of the lords of her realm for peace. The authority of her Tutor and Governor is suspended and put into the hands of her mother and certain of the greatest nobles, who desire safe-conduct for ambassadors to treat and conclude peace with him, viz. Henry lord Methwen, William lord Ruthwen, Walter Ogilvy of Dunlugus and Adam Ottirburn of Reidhall, knights, or any three or two of them. Meanwhile begs a truce and abstinence of war by sea and land for one month. Striveling, 21 June, 2 Mary.
Copy, p. 1. Endd.: The copy of the Quene of Scottes lettre to the Kinges Majeste, xxjo Junii ao 1544.
Royal MS.
18B. vi., 168b.
B. M.
2. Letter-book copy of the above.
Pp. 2.
21 June. 751. Christian III. to Mary Queen [Dowager] of Scotland.
Wegener,
Aarsberet-
ninger, iv, 260.
Has learned from John Hay the state of Scotland since the death of King James. Grieved as he was at that King being cut off before he could cultivate such familiarity with him as blood and nature required, is glad that he has left a daughter through whom the old alliance between the Danes and Scots may be preserved. Offers her his good offices, as Hay will explain. "Ex arce nostra Flensburgk, 21 June 1544."
Latin.
ii. [Christian III. to Mary Queen of Scots.]
To the like effect on receipt of letters from her, showing the internal dissensions which Scotland has suffered since the death of her father. Flensburgk.
Latin.
iii. Christian III. to James Earl of Arran, Governor, &c.
To the like effect and acknowledging a gift of a garment (vestis Integra) presented to him by John Hay, cubicularius vester.
Latin. From a draft in the hand of Peter Suavenius, who also wrote the answer committed to John Hay (§ 2).
Epp. Reg. Sc.,
ii. 213.
2. Answer of Christian king of the Danes, &c., to the message of Mary Queen of Scots and the Governor James earl of Arran by John Hay.
Is grieved at the premature death of King James, but glad that the little Queen survives, and prays that she may grow up to marriageable years. The long account of the dealings with the English king shows that the Governor has acted prudently. Every war, even when successful, does more harm than good, especially between neighbours; and, therefore, he would wish peace restored between the Scots and the English, and, when admonished thereto by the Queen or Governor, will gladly mediate therein. As to the sending aid, the military advice and the renewal of the Norwegian treaty, the councillors of his kingdoms are not at hand here in his duchies, nor has he here a copy of the Norwegian treaty, but, as soon as affairs permit his return to his kingdoms, he will send a messenger. Meanwhile the Scots are at liberty to purchase provisions. Ex arce Flemsburgh, 21 June 1544.
Lat.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 47.
B. M.
3. Modern copies of No. 437 (§§ 1, 2) and of § 2 above.
Lat., pp. 11. Noted in Hamilton Papers II., No. 270.
21 June. 752. Sir Thomas Palmer and Others to the Council.
R. O. Since certifying their arrival at Tornay, have, there, on the 19th inst., received of Mons. de Bueren musters of 203 horsemen; making in all, but 407, of whom 300 and odd are lances and the rest "boresperes and shorthandgonnes." He says that this lack of number is for shortness of time, but that he has ordered 600 horsemen more to follow him, and will thus make up the 500 lances and also the last number for which the Council wrote to him. Are this day arrived here to take musters of his footmen, and ask where to send the said horsemen and footmen afterwards. Hear no more of Lightmaker since they were at Utrecht; and, therefore, if Bueren b[rings] 600 horsemen more in time, they will proceed as directed by the Council's letters of the 15th. Would know what to do if Lightmaker comes here with the band he promised the King. Bueren has had no time to reckon with them for dead pays and other, but has received 16,000 fl., and promises to reckon after the musters according to the Emperor's instructions. He wishes the 600 horsemen who follow to enter wages at their arrival at Tornay. Ask what to answer therein, and whether to attend here to take their musters or let them follow to the camp and muster there. Saint Omers, 21 June 1544. Signed: Thomas Palmer, Edward Vaughan, T. Chamberlein.
In Chamberlain's hand, pp. 3. Add. Endd.
21 June 753. Lightmaker to Chamberlain and Palmer.
R. O. Learns from their letters that the King is grieved (mayrry) at his not arriving at Utrecht at the day. Did his best, but, because the country of Brunzwycke and towns of Godtleer and Bremes and several other great lords are daily assembling horsemen and footmen, men, of war cannot pass by the towns, which are kept shut, and thus he has been put to much trouble. Has now at Utrecht 82 horses and in a parish of the duchy of Benthem, 14 leagues from Utrecht, 254 more horse, all of whom wish to be paid at Utrecht one month's wages in hand; and money is required to bring the 254 to Utrecht. Out of his own purse, has paid each man "quatre jonghendaelders pour attendre le paye." Coming to Antwerp his lieutenant asked Wm.'Claie how things went and if there was money there; and "yl napoynct dict que M're Vachan estoyt la." Knew not what to think. Came with his lieutenant as far as Courtray, but found that they had departed; and sends this letter by special post, praying them to write what will be needful for him to do, and also to direct Mr. Vacham at Antwerp to deliver him 1,500 cr. to bring his men to the place of muster. Will wait at Antwerp until he hears from them. Prays them also to write when the King will pass the water, and upon whom he shall attend. Was told [that he should attend] upon the Duke of Suffocke, but now hears that Suffocke will not pass the water. 21 June 1544. Signed: Thomes Luchtemaker de jungher. Iw W. D.
P.S.—"Noble singner, le duc de Suffock mavoyt dict davoir ung tamburyn et ung fyfre. Sachies que je ay ung pour luy et vouldroye bin savoir la ou que son playsr soyt que je lenvoye."
French, pp. 3. Add.: [Aux] tresnobles et prudens [sing] ners, Mre. Chamberlin, ou [en] son absence au treshonnou[ra]ble M're Palmer, capytaynes du treshault et puyssant Rey, le roy d'Angleterre. Endd.: R. le 22 jour June, from Capeten Lightmaker, in Sent Omars.
22 June. 754. Sale of Crown Property.
Commission to Baker, Sir Robt. Southwell, North and Moyle. See Grants in June, No. 77.
22 June. 755. The Privy Council to Francis Hall.
R. O. As they lately signified to him the King's pleasure for the provision of 500 wagons and certain lymoners for the vanguard and rearward of the King's army, and also certain others for the battle or middle ward, so now, as (because the carriages come out of Flanders cannot carry such burden as was esteemed) 300 more carriages are wanted for the fore and rear wards, he is to repair into Flanders to procure that these may be sent to Calays with all diligence; and also to travail that there may be at Calays by the———(blank) day of next month of July, for furniture of the battle against the King's coming over, ——— (blank) wagons and———(blank) lymoners, "wherein we have written at this present to the Regent." For their prest and conduct money send herewith letters to Stephen Vaughan, the King's agent in Flanders. He may use such men as were joined with him for this despatch heretofore; and also, according to the Regent's desire, appoint conductors at the King's charges to every twenty or thirty, using all possible diligence.
Corrected draft in Petres hand, p. 1. Endd.: Mynute to Francis Hall, xxijo Junii 1544.
22 June. 756. Angus to Wharton.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 55.
B. M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 272.
Asks if Wharton will suffer a servant of his to pass where the King lies, to his daughter, and to commune with his father, Maxwell, whose son and friends desire advice in the matters in hand, for the deprivation of the Governor and displeasure of the Cardinal, to be ended in this Parliament at Edinburgh, 25 July next. Now, by the Queen's letters and advice of the Council, the Governor is discharged, by proclamation such as Angus caused to be made at the Market Cross here on 21 June, by the sheriff of Niddisdale. Good it were that Maxwell were at the Parliament, for the many friends he will make, for surely the Governor and Cardinal are making friends to resist our purpose. Please know my lord Lieutenant's pleasure whether my friends may be in sureness when I require them in the "inpartis" of the realm, for at my last being in Stirling those about Jedburgh, who were with me, have ta'en great harm. Drumfres, 22 June. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
22 June. 757. [Lord Cobham.]
Harl. MS.
283, f. 275.
B. M.
"Ye must in all diligence repair hither to th'intent you may take th'opportunity of the next passage to hasten your journey toward the King's Majesty (fn. n1) for such service as whereabout his Highness mindeth t'employ you. And that in any wise you fail not this to do."
ii. "It may please your Grace (fn. n2) to understand that I have received letters from the master of the Horses" declaring the King's pleasure that John Palmer and Robt. Bykerstath view and take up all the stabling in this town for the companies and bands that now come over with his Highness: and as I am advertised that divers of the stables are occupied with your Grace's horses I beg you to take order for their removal. I have had such business since coming hither that I could not visit your Grace. Offers services. Desires to know how to address letters which shall come for him from the King and Council.
Drafts in a clerk's hand, pp. 3.
22 June. 758. Norfolk and Others to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., ix. 715.
Norfolk remains in camp at Beaulieu and the lord Privy Seal at Fynes, within a mile, awaiting the King's orders. Are conveniently placed to besiege Arde and little out of the way to besiege Bouleyne, and in the highway towards Mounstreull. Expected, ere this, to have learnt the King's pleasure. Norfolk has straitly examined the false knave that De la Vigne sent to the King with the sy[ph]re, (fn. n3) who confesses that the French king was privy to his sending, as appears by his confession in Latin and English herewith. He is sent to be kept at Calais. Norfolk learns from Mons. du Rieulx and from espials that Vandosme is at Abville with 10,000 footmen and 500 men of arms, waiting till we pass the river of Mounstreull, and devastating the country afore us about Routy, where Du Rieulx holds the castle and thought to have lain for conveyance of victuals if we should besiege Mounstreull. Last night about 9 o'clock Mons. de Bures came to make excuse that he was not sooner ready, saying that it was because he had so late warning to levy the last 500 and 400. He trusts to have all within a few days, and lies at St. Omer till we send for him. He said often that if a camp of 5,000 or 6,000 men were put into Mounstreull it would not be had without a long siege, and that it was pity to delay going over the Somme. Think he learnt these terms of Du Rieulx, who used the same when with Norfolk. He said the Emperor would hasten towards Paris, where they "began to take down the faubourgs and to fortify one part of the town and to abandon the rest"; and all France was in great fear; also that the Emperor was at Mese and the Viceroy at Istenay, hoping to win it; and that the Emperor would march towards Chalons, which the French fortify.
All women and unable persons are avoided out of Ard, Mounstreull and Boleyne, the captains of which profess themselves ready for siege. Camp at Beaulieu, 22 June. Signed.: T. Norfolk, J. Russell, John Wallop, Franssys Bryan.
Slightly mutilated, pp. 3. Add. Endd.: 1544.
R. O. 2. "Jehan Alberge saith that, in the month of May 1544, coming from Bourges in Berry to the Court of France, chanced to see there La Vygne," who asked if he would carry a letter in cipher to the King of England and he should have high reward of the French king. As he was poor and La Vygne was his old friend, he agreed. La Vygne said he had "a cipher for the purpose, devised by the King's Majesty of England," who would rejoice at the letters and recompense the bearer. Afterwards he was sent for by the Cardinal of Tournon, by whose and two others' counsel it was determined that he should carry the letters, which should be written by the French king in La Vygne's name. And so he tarried certain days for the letters, they telling him that the King would first consider the articles which he had received, of La Vygne, out of England. Within seven days he was called to the Cardinal of Tournon, with whom were Secretary Labespine and General Bayard, but not La Vigne. Tournon there showed him two letters, which the said Secretary read to the other two, but so softly "that he could not hear them; and was commanded twice or thrice to retire and not to hearken." Then La Vigne arrived and he was despatched, and one of the Cardinal's men commanded to bring him to the treasurer to receive 60 cr., the Cardinal and Secretary saying that, if he handled the matter well, he should have 200 cr. at his return and never lack afterwards, and advising him to carry little money with him. Then La Vigne caused a pair of new shoes to be made for him and the said two letters to be sewed betwixt the soles. The said secretary gave him the King's safe-conduct, which, with his cloak, he left at Boulogne with Mons. de Foucquesolles and Mons. de Vervyn. La Vigne gave him a private letter to Marshal du Bees, which he delivered to the Marshal at Monstreull; and the Marshal advised him to go to Calais by Bouloigne and not by Guysnes, "whereupon he had there a guide and a horse and departed thence very early in the morning." He was straitly charged that, if questioned about the Turks that were in France, he should say that they were gone to spoil the coasts of Spain and would return; "but he saith indeed the French king was very sorry that the said Turks were departed thence not minding to return." The Cardinal told him he should have been brought to the speech of the King, but that there were so many spies of England in the French Court. At his return he should certainly be brought before the King and receive favour. The Cardinal charged him to persuade the King of England against proceeding in the journey towards Paris, alleging that very shortly Paris would be made inexpugnable, at the cost of the inhabitants; but the work was not yet begun lest the people should perceive any fear for a thing so far from the frontiers, although the bruit was that the Emperor would come straight towards Paris. He was commanded to observe whether the King of England would send his army and whether he would address it to any port in France. Also to note the numbers, dress and appearance of the men, when they intended to march, what nobleman should conduct them, and whether the King would come in person. If asked whether the French king sent him, he was instructed to answer that the letters he brought declared whence he came. If any said "that La Vigne was a false man and deceived the King's Majesty," he was to answer that he marvelled thereat and had "never perceived no such thing in him and could not believe the same." He was to enquire secretly what preparations were made for war and not return without some profitable knowledge, and was instructed (example given) how to ask questions indirectly. He was to say that the French king would not give battle this year, and that the best way to grieve him was for the English army to join the Emperor's (for thus, the Cardinal said, both should shortly lack victuals). La Vigne added to his instructions that a merchant of Normandy who haunted England had talked with the French king, and seemed, by his gestures, to speak of the King of England. That he might be the better believed, La Vigne "gave him the oration that the Cardinal of Belay made at the last sitting at Spyres." (fn. n4) At Boulogne Vervyn and Foucque[solles] caused a "dromcelad" and another footman to conduct him by night within sight of Calais; and there he delivered his horse to them and went "into myrery plasche therby and spotted hymself with myre, to seme that he had escaped in hast away on foote." All he can allege for and against himself is that all was done for the advantage of the French king.
Pp. 7. Endd.: The sayings of Alberge, De la Vigne his servant, touching his sending into England; also in another hand: "Rex Idumeus Salamon. Misericordia et veritas custodiunt Regem et roboratur clementia thronus ejus."
23 June. 759. Raising Money at Antwerp.
R. O. Obligation of Lord Chancellor Wriothesley, Charles duke of Suffolk, Sir Ant. Browne, and Sir Ric. and Sir John Gresham to Thomas Cavalcanti, John Girald, Bart. Fortini, Jacobo Marsupini and John Carolo de li Affaitati and their fellowship, merchants, of Florence, in 5,000 mks. to be paid 1 Aug. next. Dated 23 June 36 Hen. VIII.
With condition that whereas the said Barth. and Jacobo, in the names of the said Cavalcanti and Giraldi and their fellowship, at the request of the King and his Council, have this day directed their letter of credit to the said John Carolo and his fellowship of Antwerp to be bound to such persons as Steph. Vaughan, John Dymoke, and Thos. Lok, the King's agents there, shall appoint, before 1 Aug. next, in 10,000 cr. of gold payable within six months, if the said agents take the use of the said 10,000 cr. and the said Lord Chancellor, &c., repay it to the said persons with all factorage, loss and interest thereon, and thoroughly acquit and discharge the said Cavalcanti, etc., then this obligation shall be void. Signed: Thorn's Wriothesley, cancel.: Charlys Soffolk: Antone Browne: ........... [Richar]dus Gresham. Certified by Edw. Barbour, notary.
Parchment. Seals lost.
23 June. 760. Nicholas Bacon and Others.
R. O. Grant to Nic. Bacon, solicitor of the Augmentations, Wm. Breton and Hen. Asshefyld of property in London. Westm., 23 June. See Grants in June, No. 79.
Copy, large paper written on the one side only, pp. 17. Headed as from Originalia Roll 36 Hen. VIII., rot. 67.
23 June. 761. The Privy Council to Lord Cobham.
Harl. MS.
283, f. 277.
B. M.
Desires him to forward letters enclosed "and especially those to Mr. Haull, to Sir Tho. Palmer and his fellows, and also that to Henry Palmer, for they be matters of importance." Westm., 23 June 1544. Signed by Wriothesley, Suffolk, Paget and Ryche.
P. 1. Add.: Deputy of Callays.
762. The Burning of Jedburgh.
R. O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 132.]
Lord Evre and his son Sir Ralph Evre, wardens of the East and Middle Marches, with 4,000 Englishmen marched, some twelve days ago, to Jedworthe, after Edinburgh one of the principal towns of Scotland, where has always been a good garrison of Scots, now increased because of the wars and the destruction of the country round. At the assault was a severe skirmish in which fell 140 Scots, including several gentlemen. The town was sacked and burnt, and the abbey also; and our men returned towards England with 500 horses laden with spoil.
In their return, they perceived a fire upon the frontiers of England, some way off, and, suspecting that Scots were come secretly to make a course and had fired some village, they sent 110 horsemen towards the fire. These spurred so hard that their horses began to tire, and therefore 80 of them stopped and set themselves in ambush at a favourable spot while the 30 best mounted went forward and chanced upon the Scots, who were 800 horsemen and 100 footmen, and, having gone to do some enterprise in England, were afraid and only burnt a little house or two not worth 25 ducats. The 30 English charged; and the Scots, either fearing some ambush, because so few men assailed them, or for some other cause, took to flight straight towards the ambush, which issued out upon them, slew 120 and carried prisoners into England about 200 horsemen and 17 footmen, most of whom are gentlemen and some of very good houses. In the flight the Scots, thinking to escape by crossing a river, lost about 100 drowned. In all this not one of our men was slain or wounded, save that at the assault of the town six were killed and hurt. Now in a great country round there remains no fort to the Scots, at least none where any good number could assemble. The victory is rather a miracle than otherwise. God be praised for all!
Fr. Modern transcript of a MS. (in Wotton's hand) at Vienna, pp. 2.
2. "Other new prosperous adventures of late against the Scots." (The continuation of No. 533.)
After the Earl of Hertford, lieutenant in the North, had dissolved the army and repaired to the King, lord Eure, to prove whether the Scots had yet learnt to tender their own weal by uniting to the King's liege people, took advice of Sir Ralph Eure his son and other gentlemen, upon 9 June, at Mylnefeld, and from thence made such haste that by 4 o'clock after midnight he was within half a mile from Jedworth, and a messenger was sent to the provost to know if the town would surrender to the King's allegiance. The provost, to prove himself a Scot, asked respite till noon, hoping to work some "old cowardly subtlety"; but the snake under the flowers easily appeared to those who knew that the townsmen had 7 or 8 pieces of ordnance in the market place, and lord Eure therefore divided his force in three bands for an assault,—the gunners who had battered certain places to enter at one side, the kerne at another and himself on a third side. But the Scots left their pieces unshot and fled out of the town into the woods thereabout, leaving 160 Scots slain, with the loss of only 6 Englishmen. The abbey, the Grey Friars, and divers houses were then burnt and 500 horses laden with spoil besides 7 pieces of ordnance. In the return the English burnt the tower of Callyncrag, the castle of Sesforth, Otterburn, Cowboge, Marbottel church and many other like, until they came to Kyrkyettham, where, 10 miles off, the English villages of Hetton, Tylmouth and Twysell were seen to be burning. Sir Ralph Eure, with the captain of Norham and 500 horse, rode in haste towards the fire; and Sir Ralph with only 200 set upon the Scots who had burnt the villages. These, seeing the standards, fled in such haste that divers English horses were tired in the pursuit; but a great number of Scots were taken and slain, so that every Englishman had 8 or 9 prisoners, besides those slain, who numbered over 100.
On 15 June a raid was made by divers Englishmen to a place called Synlawes, where divers bastel houses were destroyed, 8 Scots taken and 60 oxen; and the Scots, making pursuit, lost 6 men killed and 50 "horsemen."
On the Tuesday (fn. n5) following Sir George Bowes, Sir John Witherington, Henry Eure and Lionel Graye rode to Coldingham and, after an assault of 5 hours, burnt all save the church, which could not conveniently be burnt because, being fired at one end, the smoke drove in the Englishmen's faces. In this abbey were slain a monk and three other Scots, and an English gunner was slain by a piece of ordnance shot out of the steeple.
On 20 June a company from Tyndale and Redesdale ventured upon the greatest town in Tevidale called Skraysbrugh, a town of the lord Hunthylle's, where, besides great spoil, 88 persons were taken and 3 Scots slain, but no Englishman was hurt.
"In these victories, who is to be most highest lauded but God, by whose goodness the Englishmen hath had of a great season notable victories, and matters worthy triumph? And, for the continuance of God's favour towards us, let us pray for the prosperous estate of our noble, good and victorious Lord Governor and King, etc., for whose sake, doubtless, God hath spread his blessing over us, in peace to have mirth and in wars to have victory."
23 June. 763. Norfolk and Others to the Council.
R. O. This present hour Norfolk has received the Council's letters of the 20th showing that we shall lay siege to Monstrell, if furnished with sufficient horsemen of the strangers, or else besiege Arde, upon consideration of Norfolk's "letter sent of the report of the master gunner of Calyce concerning the mortars." According to the Council's former letter, Norfolk yesterday sent the said gunner to the King. The mortars cannot be ready for eight or ten days; but Norfolk will to-morrow remove to Alenbone on the way to Monstrell, 6 miles hence, to seek new pasture. There they will meet Mons. de Reux and decide whether to go to Monstrell or to Arde. I, the lord Privy Seal, will remain here until it is determined by advice of Mons. de Reux and Bewers what is best to do. Do not "incontinently set towards Monstrell" because uncertain what strangers horsemen will join them, and also for lack of wagons and lymoners and horses to draw the ovens (for the horses sent from England are so evil that it takes 14 or 15 horses to draw one, as Mr. Harleston can show); also it is not known what pasture will be found, and no corn will be ripe enough for horses this month. After speaking with Mons. de Reux on Wednesday next, they will act with diligence. Send herewith a letter from the Lady Regent, in which she denies receipt of a schedule enclosed in Norfolk's letter to her for more carriages, at the enclosure of which my lord Privy Seal, Mr. Poynenges and one of Norfolk's secretaries were present. Conjecture that she seeks to delay their advance till the men out of her country are ready. Lack 294 wagons for munitions and 120 lymoners for "such things as Jheronnimus should bring with him"; for which, and for those promised by the Lady Regent, they have sent Gower and Broke, with money. Enclose a bill by Nedeham and Marten showing "that but the one half of the boats will be carried in a wagon that was thought should have been sufficient." Desire to know with diligence at what rate the strangers, both horsemen and footmen, shall be paid; which neither Gower nor Chamberlaine can tell. It is better to send too much than too little. Both the treasurers here shall not have above 16,000l., the month's wages paid; and what the Almains shall have for this month and the next the Council best knows. As Norfolk has before written, it were well that the King wrote to the Lady Regent that the angel and groat might go as in England; for in Flanders the angel goes only for 7s. 6d.(?) and the groat for "less than it doth with us." From the camp, 23 June. Signed: T. Norffolk: J. Russell: H. Surrey: Wyllyam Howard: Water Devereux: T. Wentworth: T. Cheyne: John Wallop: Franssys Bryan: John Haryngton.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.
23 June. 764. Thomas Lok to Henry VIII.
R. O. Wrote on the 11th inst. from Andwarpe that he had bought and shipped 76 "bregandynes" (and now has letters from his father that they are delivered to the King) and that at Brusselles he had bespoken 100 pair of "pollderons" to be made by the end of this month and "cheyns" for 500 horses to be ready in five or six days. Will send to Brusselles in two or three days for as many as are yet ready. Has laden in a good ship that departs tomorrow 40 pair of "grevis," 65 pair of "maylle slevis" and mail to cover 62 pair of arming shoes. Has bespoken mail for 100 more pair of shoes; and Wm. Damsell will provide as many "grevis and maylle slevis" as can be made in time. Has bought of "corsys of silke" 145 Fl. ells (108 yds.) at 2s. and 2s. 6d. the ell, and sends it by bearer. There is not so much more in this town, and the rest is black satin whereas this is crimson. Has, since writing last, been at Cullyn and other places about, but finds nothing ready made and can get no promise to make anything under a month. Where the King has associated him in a commission with Mr. Steven Vawghan and John Dymock for provision and receipt of money here, will do his best. Andwarpe, 23 June 36 Hen. VIII.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Sealed. Endd.
23 June. 765. Wotton to Paget.
R. O. These men are afraid lest Landenbergh and his band run over into France, being so nigh the borders, if the King absolutely refuse to retain them; which grieves them the more after their efforts to stop such as would go thither. Certain ambassadors and others of this Court stick not to say that the King "doth not much mind this war against France," and their report is likely to be confirmed when it is known that he has refused men who are so many and so well in order. Yea! and if the men go into France a still stranger opinion may be conceived. Thinks the King should take means to prevent it. Cannot perceive that the Emperor departs hence these five or six days. While writing "this other letter" to the King, received another letter from the Council with the answer given to Mons. de Courrieres. Metz, 23 June 1544.
Hol., p.1. Add. Endd.
24 June. 766. Francis Halle to the Council.
R. O. Wrote last on the 3rd inst., riding towards the Regent's Court for 500 wagons and 1,100 lymoners. Made such diligence that he was here the day before the 12th, and advertised Norfolk that they would be here on the 12th, as the Council ordered. Was sent back to stay their coming till the 14th. Divided them on the 15th between the fore and rear wards and gave the masters of ordnance of these wards bills of their division, wages, &c. Was the longer in advertising this because thoroughly wearied, and because he supposed that the King and they knew it by Mr. Patchyt, whom, in coming homeward, he met "at Makelyn to Bruxelles ward," and by Norfolk. Wrote in last letters that he received of Sir John Wallop, in angels at 8s. st., 1,000 mks, which, with 700l. in silver, made 2,000 mks., "according unto your Lordships' letter to me by thesaid Maister Walloppe." Did not speak with Mr. Leghton, the ambassador, who was in extremis, but spoke with the Queen herself, who used great diligence, as also did her secretary Burgoyse, or it would have been impossible in four days to bring to Callais 500 wagons and 1,100 lymoners. At Bruxelles they would have had wages paid from the day that the wagons and lymoners were warned and a "chargeable conductor" for every ten wagons. Eight messengers were sent out for the despatch, as appears by the bill herewith sent, trans, lated out of the French, together with the Emperor's order kept last year (fn. n6) (of which he sent a copy to Norfolk before the wagons and lymoners arrived here), "because that my said lord's grace said unto me at my first coming that it was my fault that I brought not conductors of the countries with me; and yet of the viijth messengers that came with the foresaid wagons and lymoners, and of other conductors also that came with them, I do not understand that there is retained for my lord of Norfolk's battle above one (if he be retained) and not above twain for my lord Privy Seal's battle." Made no promise but that they might take or refuse the conductors he brought. Prested at the rate of a crown of the rose for every horse. The angel in the Emperor's countries is taken at 1½ cr., and although among the merchants at Andwarppe the crown of the rose is not current for 2 Carolus gyldyrs, as the ducat is, yet here on the frontier it is "passable, with much ado, in some places, after that rate." Paid fast upon 1,600 cr. of the rose, by which the King lost never a penny, "where hys Hyghnes lyesyth in every awngell vjd. st., and contynwally schall lyese by ensaunsynge (sic) the goolds and sylver noon soo muche as pryncypally hys Majestie in alle hys Hyghnes revenywis, custumis, and subsydys dooth, and generally alle nooble men and genttyllmen. The husbonde men, merchaunttes and hande crafftte men wyll save theym sylvys well ynow in utterynge theyre waarys. Th'Emperour hathe dyverse tyms enhaunsyd hys coyne for paymentte of hys men of warre, butt yit att thoos sylffe tyms he woold never receyve hys revenyewis butt affttyr the hoolde raate, nor lykewyse noon oothyr possessyoner theeyres, thorrow ought alle hys hoole countreyis." Will, when all is reckoned, have above 1,000 angels left of the said 2,000 mks. Though he returned home with the wagons and lymoners on the 14th, the business is not yet finished. The Queen requires more respite for the sending of wagons and lymoners for the battle. Caused the lord Privy Seal to speak for the wagons lacking in the foreward and rearward to Mons. de Coriere, who answered that the King "must send a more discreet and circumspect commissioner than he that was there last," who would bring the wagons and lymoners to Callais without conductors and refused the conductors offered by the Queen. To that the writer answered that he was the commissary, that the wagons and lymoners were brought hither by conductors of the Queen's appointing, some of whom "did not most honestly their duties," and that they were paid for their pains. Mons. de Coriere replied "that then it was well." Told him that these wagons and lymoners were only for the fore and rear wards, and there must be "another manner of number for the battle." He answered "that he knew the time and day when that should be well enough for the sending hither of those wagons and lymoners. By which his prescience concerning that point methought I might take the more leisure to write these." Callais, 24 June 1544.
P.S.—Seing that he is blamed on both sides, must say that, if he had not spoken quickly against it, the King would have been overcharged with conductors who would only have sought their own profit. The jurisdictions of Burborrough and Cassell have sent two captains at their own charges, and have covenanted with the owners of horses and mares that they shall be no losers if they die, so that the owners take 5 stivers a day for every horse, whereas the King pays 7 stivers, the overplus of which is taken to pay the charges of the two captains and supply the place of horses that die. If all other jurisdictions did the like no other chargeable conductors would be needed.
Hol., pp. 6. Add. Endd.
24 June. 767. The Queen of Hungary to Chapuys.
R. O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 128.]
What the Sieur de Corrieres and Chapuys write to the Emperor of the King of England's dissatisfaction with Colonel de Landenberger, and absolute intention of not using him, much troubled her, because Landenberger and his footmen had already passed the river Meuze, oppressing the poor countrymen of Liege, bruiting that they were not paid and did not intend to march if all their demands were not entirely satisfied; and they live so ill they do no less hurt than the enemies, save that they do not burn. Hearing that one of the King's commissioners (fn. n7) was arrived here, sent for him to learn the dispute; and he told her that Landenberger had in nothing fulfilled his promise to the King, and (although afterwards offered the same entertainment as the Emperor gives to his footmen) insisted upon having all that he asked, which the commissioners would not agree to without a new charge from the King, and that already Landenberger had received 18,000 cr. The same day came two clerks from Landenberger, on behalf, respectively, of the footmen and horsemen, complaining greatly of the King's commissioners, who had not come to the place of muster at the day assigned and, although the footmen agreed to serve at the same pay as the Emperor gave, would not give them pay for one month but only some prests of 5,000 or 6,000 cr., with which they could not march, and as for the horsemen they complained that they had no retainer, as will be seen by the bill which they exhibited, in German, herewith, translated. Declared that as to the footmen she heard that the King would neither use them nor their colonel, but had dismissed them (and the clerk said that they would be content, provided that they might be paid for the past and for coming more than 100 leagues to serve the King) and as to the horsemen she will communicate with the said Commissioner to learn what promise he may have made. But she found that the Commissioner had already left for Antwerp, and, therefore, at once despatched to him to return here (and also sends the lieutenant of her guard with 30 horse to Diest to safely conduct the other commissioner, (fn. n8) and the money which remained to him, hither, inasmuch as she hears that the men of war were threatening him) so as to learn what money they had delivered, they saying that they have disbursed 18,000 cr. and the men of war that they have only received 10,000 or 11,000 cr. Meanwhile the footmen remain living upon (mengans) the poor peasants and do great hurt, for which they of Liege blame her; because at her request, and for the King's service, they gave them passage. Chapuys will be able to consider what satisfaction they of Liege and her subjects may have, being pillaged and destroyed by those whom they thought friends, who do all the exploits of enemies, except burning. Has sent a gentleman to the footmen to signify their dismissal, but doubts that they will not depart if they are not fully paid for the time they have been together. The horsemen would be very ill satisfied if, after being mounted and armed, and having come 100 or 50 leagues, they were sent back without payment; for they could not come so far without spending much of their own. They would be content with a promise from the commissioners; otherwise there would be fear of their recompensing themselves upon English merchants passing through Germany. Has advertised Chapuys of this with diligence in order that he may move the King to send instructions to his commissioners. Fears that they will be unable to get rid of the foot soldiers except by paying them for a month or six weeks, having regard to their return home, and [still] less of the horsemen, who are come at great expense and say that they have nothing to do with Landenberger, and did not mount for him but for the King's service, at the Emperor's request. Hears that they are well ordered.
As to the charge for which the Sieur de Courrieres was in England, the King's resolution is not to be gainsaid, and it is well that he is satisfied with the Emperor's message. Since Secretary Paget's departure, a servant of the ambassador (fn. n9) lately deceased, soliciting passport for three horses which the said Secretary desired to have, requested also passport for two mares for the said Secretary, which she refused because the Secretary had said nothing of them. The same servant has since delivered a bill for 200 mares for the King, as he said, which she found strange and flatly refused, causing him to be told that she would not let the country be despoiled of them. If Chapuys hears mention of this he can answer. 24 June 1544.
Fr. Modern transcript of the original minute at Vienna, pp. 4. Original headed: A l'ambassadeur Chapuys, du xxiiije de Juing 1544.
24 June. 768. Vaughan and Lock to Wriothesley, Suffolk and Browne.
R. O. Wrote lately that they would be despatched here for the payment of 15,000l. st. (or 60,000 ducats) in four or five days; but find such trouble about the receipt, because it cannot be had in crowns or ducats, which should best serve in France, that they know not what to do. It is not possible to get any more money here paid in these coins. Have received already about 14,000l. Fl., "but it is in crowns, crusados and dalers, keysers gilderns, philippus gilderns, horners gilderns, Italian crowns and some white money." Desire to know what moneys to receive, and to whom to deliver it. It will be seven or eight days ere the rest of this 60,000 ducats is received, which the merchants appointed "to pay us till your honors have gotten the merchants in London to credit us here for greater sums." To pass out with this money the Regent's special licence is required, for which we now make suit. Andwerp, 24 June.
"Because my lord of Norffolk's grace is in France we know not to whom to pay this money." Signed: S. Vaughan: Thomas Lok.
In Vaughan's hand, p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
24 June. 769. Charles V. to Chapuys.
R. O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 129.]
Was yesterday advertised that Captain Chr. de Landemberg, after having long been with his 1,000 horse and 4,000 Almain foot about Aix, mostly upon the Emperor's patrimonial subjects, had moved into the country of Liege and was oppressing the countrymen. Was on the point of despatching the Sieur de Haltestain, gentleman of his mouth, to make them march, when the English ambassador here resident advertised him that, for the difficulties which Landemberg made upon the men's entertainment, the King was rather inclined not to use him or his men. This might cause great inconvenience, especially as the footmen being so near France would not fail to go serve there, and the French king would buy them at their own price, as he demonstrated by his practices with those whom the Emperor levied, against which the Emperor has had to guard. Has therefore despatched the said Altestain to urge Landemberg to be satisfied with the entertainment granted by the King of England, and, if they will not, to practise with them to serve the Emperor, so that they may not pass to France; and meanwhile Altestain to advertise the Queen to inform the King of his business and get him to take them at the least charge that it shall be possible to arrange with them. Meanwhile Chapuys shall represent the great inconvenience that might come of his not using them and get him to provide that his commissioners travail with Landemberg, and them "de sorte que 1 ...... suyvant ce que nous en avons parle avec sond. ambassadeur." Chapuys is well able to consider the importance of this. Metz, 24 June 1544.
Fr. Modern transcript of the original minute at Vienna, pp. 2.
24 June. 770. Wotton to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., ix. 718.
On the 22nd, received the Council's letters of the 12th, and on the morrow declared its effect to Granvelle. He said it was "marvellous ill tidings, and of great importance and of hard digestion," for, already, Landenbergh's men had destroyed the country about Aken and also the Emperor's own country and were gone into Luyke to do the same, and the Emperor meant to send a gentleman (fn. n10) to warn him to go straight to Henry's service as he promised. Now that Henry's commissaries were revoked, Landenbergh would go straight to the French king's service. It was the worst news he had heard this year. Describes further conversation, in which Granvelle, who seemed much moved, said that Landenbergh's men were sure of entertainment in France and might go thither in 24 hours, that Henry's men at Landrecy first spoke to Landenbergh to offer service and the Emperor granted him only an ordinary letter of commendation; the Emperor had this year spent 100,000 fl. to stop lantzknechtes from passing into France. Mons. de Lire, who was called in, was sure that Landenbergh would pass into France; and thought that Henry should entertain him with fair words and afterwards punish him "like as his brother was put to death in France." And Granvelle said that, to save time, he would himself report the matter to the Emperor; and prayed Wotton to despatch in all haste to Henry to help to stay these men, especially the footmen. Granvelle seemed more troubled than he durst utter.
Had begun to write this when he was sent for to the Emperor, who did not show himself so chafed as Granvelle was, and said that Landenbergh had acted lewdly (as he had before misused himself to the Emperor but was forgiven), howbeit, if Henry should now lack such a number the common enterprise would be hindered. Details conversation, in which the Emperor trusted that Henry would regard the importance of their common affairs more than the lewdness of such as Landenbergh; he himself was forced to give his men more than he meant to give although they were his own subjects, and he trusted that, for this time, Henry would be content to use Landenbergh's services, and afterwards he (the Emperor) would punish him for this and other faults.
The whole army departed this day from Commercy towards Lygny, where the the Frenchmen have burnt the town and mean to defend the castle. Beside Marville were encamped 3,000 Frenchmen, but the Prince of Orange has made them levy their camp. Count Pyklyn was condemned to death and a multitude of people were waiting to see his execution, when, being "well apparentid," his pardon was obtained. Metz, 24 June 1544. Signed.
Pp. 6. Add. Endd.
25 June. 771. James Haddon to John Johnson.
R. O. Thanks him and his bedfellow for gentle entertainment. I send you a fardell of stuff from my cousin Lawrence, which shall tarry here no longer "than the putting upon the horse back." Its delay is not my cousin's fault, as you will see by his letter herewith, which please return by bearer. "News here is none but that it is supposed our Papist (fn. n11) is like tomorrow for to recant;" but that is yet doubtful. Mr. Barker, who is one of our proctors this year, has him heartily commended to you, being desirous of your acquaintance. At Cambridge, in Gwnwell Hawle, 25 June almost at 2 p.m., "for sooner your fardell came not unto me nor into Cambridge."
Hol., p. 1. Add.: "To his assured friend and very loving cousin, Mr. John Johnson, dwelling at Glapthorne, be these dd. with most speed."
25 June. 772. William Gonson.
R. O. A file of bills for payment of moneys to Wm. Gonson, of London, grocer (reasons in a few cases given), viz.:—
1. By Thos. Morrys, of London, grocer, for 8,000 marivedez of Spain (to be paid at Calz in Andolozia to John Swettyng), 6 July 1540.
2. Wm. Cawarden, fishmonger, for 5l. 5 Aug. 17 Hen. VIII.
3. Thos. Walle, salter, 25l. 6s. 3d. 27 March 27 Hen. VIII.
4. Laur. Wood, ironmonger, 6s. 8d. 8 Dec. 20 Hen. VIII.
5. Thos. Wolverd, girdler, 3l. 20 Jan. 33 Hen. VIII.
6. Ric. Harode, master of the Jamys of Callysse, 40s. 15 Dec. 1525.
7. Wm. Blanke, haberdasher, and Robt. Glace, mariner, 3l. 18s. 8d. for "fore bassys, eyght chamers and fore forlokes weyng fore honderythe and xxiiijli weyght." 30 March 32 Hen. VIII.
8. Tristram Bissat alias Balthasar, surgeon, 5l. 2s. 6d. 25 June 36 Hen. VIII.
9. Wm. Cawarden, fishmonger, 5l. 5 Aug. 17 Hen VIII.
10. Robt. Mott, master and owner of the Marget Bonaventer, 3l. 10s. 8d. 5 Nov. 1527.
11. Mich. Wynstun, of Porsmowth, 48s. 14 Nov. 19 Hen. VIII.
12. Robt. Norton, of Romsay, Hants, 35s. 27 April 1526.
13. Laur. Wood, ironmonger, 6s. 8d. 8 Dec. 20 Hen. VIII.
14. The same, 6s. 8d. 8 Dec. 20 Hen. VIII.
15. The same, 6s. 8d. 8 Dec. 20 Hen. VIII.
16. John Thomas, 53s. 4d. 25 Aug. 17 Hen. VIII.
17. Laur. Wood, 6s. 8d. 8 Dec. 20 Hen. VIII.
18. Ric. Fostar, 8l. 5 April 24 Hen. VIII.
Eighteen small papers, each signed, and many of them sealed.
25 June. 773. Sir Thomas Palmer and Others to the Council.
R. O. Yesterday, received the enclosed letter from Lightmaker, showing that he had 336 horsemen ready 60 leagues hence. It seems far, seeing that the King's army is already on this side the sea; but, in pursuance of the Council's letters by Hams, this bearer, they returned Lightmaker's post with answer to hasten hither, and wrote to Mr. Stephen Vaughan at Andwarpe to deliver him 1,500 cr., to bring his men from Utrecht nearer these frontiers. Have appointed Thomas Chamberlein to depart tomorrow for Andwarpe to take Lightmaker's musters. Tomorrow Mons. de Bueren has appointed to give us the musters of the 2,000 footmen, after which, and the furnishing of the soldiers with their month's wages begun yesterday, Chamberlein will depart, and the rest remain to hasten De Bueren forward and take order for the musters of the 600 horsemen that he says are coming. Will be gentle with him, as the Council direct; and will also be circumspect in overcharging the King. De Bueren says that the said 600 horsemen are between this and Grave. The other 400 will be here tomorrow. The first month's wages of the footmen ended on the 22nd inst.; and De Bueren desires them to have a prest to cause them to tarry, and that the month's wages may be sent as soon as may be. He estimates that 24,000 fl. a month will be needful for the 2,000 footmen and 500 horsemen, which is about 3,000l. st., "counting none entertainment for himself nor for his lieutenant." St. Omer, 23 June, 1544. Signed: Thomas Palmer, Edward Vaughan, T. Chamberlein.
P.S.—Have this day, 24th inst., received musters of 5 ensigns of footmen levied by De Bueren at the King's sould; and stayed the bearer to report it. In these 5 ensigns are 1,842 persons receiving 2,666½ pays, "besides the hault officers." The men are "not much to be misliked," but in pays De Bueren has exceeded his covenant with the King and the Emperor's instructions; which he excused by showing his account with the Regent for his 5 ensigns at the Emperor's sould, which are more charged and not so good. And De Bueren says that if the King is not satisfied he will "pay this month's wages out of his own purse, and for next month seek such as will serve for less, which (he saith) he knoweth the King's Majesty will not be served with, although his Highness might have them for nought." This month's sould of the footmen, with the hault officers, of whom the King pays half, is 13,640 fl. 6 stivers, at 20 stivers the florin.
Were ready to despatch this at 3 p.m. when a messenger from Callais arrived with the Council's letters of the 22nd showing that, if Lightmaker's band is not already at Ayre, an express messenger is to be sent to declare to him that the King cannot now accept them. Pondering this, with their former answer to Lightmaker and the Council's advice of the 20th that the King then meant to be served of Lightmaker and De Bueren, have thought good (to save charge and avoid the clamor of Lightmaker's people who have already come 65 or 70 leagues from home) to send Chamberlein to Andwarpe, to see what word Lightmaker has left there and proceed according to this last advice. De Bueren went this morning with the Great Master to my lord of Norfolk, "called by his Grace's letter yesternight late," and returns tonight. We shall proceed with him as advised, "although we are so 'fulcome' of Mons. de Bueren his nature and disposition that we fear he will be somewhat stirred thereat; which we shall so gently mitigate as near as we may that we trust the King's Majesty's 'aspectation' shall take effect." Saint Omer, 25 June 1544. Signed as before.
In Chamberlein's hand, pp. 9. Endd.
25 June. 774. Vaughan to the Council.
R. O. Lightmaker, being arrived here four days past and by me sent to Turney to the King's commissaries, yesterday returned, saying that he had been at Turney and other towns, but could not find the commissaries, and had sent letters after them signifying his readiness. His post returned yesternight with a letter to me that they had answer from the King to accept Lightmaker, and I should therefore deliver him 1,500 cr. to entertain his men till their coming to take the musters, also that I should cause him to leave in writing "where he will appoint the place of his musters." Sent for Lightmaker and took his receipt for the money and promise to bring his horsemen to muster at Turney within twelve days after the date of this, and paid him the 1,500 gold crowns with which he "departed towards Ughtreght with great diligence." Andwerp, 25 June, in the morning.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: "resident in the Court." Endd.: 1544.
25 June. 775. Vaughan to Paget.
R. O. Bearer, Francis, the King's post, who was on the 19th sent hence to seek Mr. Fane and Mr. Wynybanke beside Bruxelles (because it was reported that Landenberghe was gone from Acon through the land of Luke) after long wandering arrived here on Midsummer Day in the morning and found Mr. Fane arrived not one hour before. Begs Paget to consider Francis's pains and "charge with horseflesh" herein. Has bought and shipped for Paget four pieces of linen cloth. Andwerp, 25 June, in the morning.
P.S.—Longs for answer to letters lately sent to the lord Chancellor.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
25 June. 776. R. Fane to the Council.
R. O. As lately signified by Hammys, "we" caused Landenberghe to set all his horsemen and footmen in battle and march towards Lyege. Refused to accompany them, because we had the King's money with us and, if revoked, could not without peril of it leave them, answering that it was expedient for us to keep the highway by which the Countye Oversteyn would return out of England. They were satisfied, and we returned to Acon. At Acon, because the footmen complained of lack of money to defray their charges and the poor men of the country came complaining that they were undone by the said footmen, and many burgesses of Acon made like complaint, we determined, without allowing Landenberghe's claim to have the footmen to enter wages from 26 May, to pay the footmen 1 stiver a day for twelve days, half to be at the King's charge and the other half counted as upon their wages, which should begin on 1 June. Also, for the King's honor, we declared to the magistrates of Acon, who "feasted us with a costly dinner," that, although the King had made no pact to defray the men's charges, we would give 1,263 gold crowns 6 stivers (that is 1 stiver a day for each of the 4,000 footmen for 12 days), which the magistrates received thankfully, and promised therewith to content all poor men, both in the villages and in the town.
And so we departed to Mastreght, the 19th inst., where Nycolas, the King's post, brought us two letters from you, to the same effect, viz., that if we had not agreed for the footmen we should discharge them and practise to retain the horsemen. Had just read the letters when Landenberghe came to us, and we asked why he marched not forward. He answered that his company would not march until paid as mustered. Told him we took musters to pay them according to Mons. de Lyere's book, the rate given by the Emperor, and we would not have paid him so much already unless he had promised to march. He answered that he would not stand to De Lyere's book, who was not his friend, and he was sure the Emperor paid greater solde; at De Lyre's rate, it had cost him 100,000 fl. After we had told him twice or thrice that we had no commission to agree for more, he said, "I see none other way but that we must depart;" and he was going away when we called him back and said that, although not agreed with the footmen, we were agreed with the horsemen; and provoked him to march forward with the horsemen as his captains were alone to blame. He replied that the one would not go without the other, for many of the horsemen had brethren, kinsmen and friends among the footmen, that his captains were no more to blame than himself, and finally that there were more masters to serve. And so he departed, we telling him that we would tarry a day or twain in Mastreght to see if any other letters came from the King. Next day he sent a kinsman, with a letter of credence, to ask for a resolute answer whether we had any larger commission or would "pay the footmen one pay throughout, and to every double pay half a pay" (50 pays in every ensign above the Emperor's rate). Replied that we could say no more than before, and, as the footmen had not kept their day to be at Arey, we would be discharged of them; but the horsemen, seeing that they had received oath, would be accepted if he brought them. The same night the bp. of Luke sent the burgomaster of Liege and a gentleman of his house, with a letter of credence, to say that a company of footmen were arrived in the villages about Liege, where they wasted poor men's things, and to ask what order we would take to pay the poor men. We answered that all money owing by the King had been paid to the coronell, whose name was Landenberghe; and, as Landenberghe had told the Bishop that he had received no money towards the leading of his men so far, we showed the bills of Landenberghe and his captains acknowledging the receipt of sundry great sums of money, and also showed Landenberghe's bargain with the King and told of his refusal to stand either to that bargain or to the Emperor's commandment to serve for like solde as the Emperor paid, which writing we also showed.
As Landenberghe had thus begun to make untrue report to the Bishop of Liege we thought that he would spread the like elsewhere, and so we went straight to the magistrates of Mastryghe and declared the truth of the King's bargain and the Emperor's commandment, and Landenberghe's subsequent dealing and untrue report to the Bishop. Then, intending to obey your letters by Nycolas, we prayed the magistrates that, inasmuch as we doubted that Landenberghe would lie in wait for us, we might have the gate open very early in the morning and shut two hours after our departure, and that they would give us 15 or 16 persons to conduct us to Dyste. This they did, and so we came safely to Dyste on the 21st inst.; where we agreed that I, Ralph Fane, should repair to Brussels and show the Regent or her Council how we had proceeded, and Landenberghe's refusal of Mons. de Lyere's rate. And so, leaving Wynebanck at Dyst, I came to Brussels, and, taking with me a secretary of the late ambassador, (fn. n12) deceased, as interpreter, went to Seigneur Score. Began by explaining that, because not sufficiently languaged, he brought the interpreter. "Why," asked Score, "how shall then the Queen's Majesty understand you?" I replied that I came not to talk with them by commission, but to declare proceedings between me and my fellow and Landenberghe. "Well," said he, half chafed, "then hath the Queen commission to you." And, knowing what I was, he said quickly "Why have ye not yet despatched forwards your company? Shall they lie there still and eat up all the country?" I answered that they were not brought by me, but sent thither by the Emperor to serve the King at such solde as other Almains serve the Emperor for, and I and other commissaries were sent to take their musters and pay them, above the rate of Landenberghe's bargain, at the Emperor's solde, which the Emperor had prayed the King not to exceed; and now I came to show that, after we had attended almost a month at Acon to pay them after the rate of Mons. de Lyer's book, Landenberghe has refused to serve (and that notwithstanding the Emperor's command to him at Spyre and his own written promise to the King) and that we have fulfilled our charge. "Well," said Score, "why then pay ye them not?" I answered that we had paid them almost as much as by De Lyer's book they ought to have, and were always ready to pay the rest (and showed their receipts); but now they would go no further unless paid 150 pays in each ensign more than the Emperor gives. This brought Score "into another heat," who, after a pause, asked if, in case the Queen moved them to serve, they would be received. The footmen, said I, we are commanded to discharge and will not eftsoons receive, but the horsemen we will receive. Score asked how then the King would keep his promise to the Emperor. Told him that, as Landenberghe was received at the Emperor's appointment, to be paid as the Emperor desired, the King was not in fault; and that my commission was to discharge them because they had broken their day with the King, whose army was already entered into France, and if they were to follow and be distressed in the way it would be to the King's dishonor. Here Score was sent for by the Queen, who sent word that the Emperor's gentleman now returned out of England reported that the King "would in nowise be served of the said footmen."
I departed and came to mine inn, where there waited for me two of Landenberghe's horsemen, while three more were "set to wait me in another place of the town." When they saw me in my wagon they gat to horseback "minding (as I think) to have distressed me in the way"; but I alighted and went to show Score what wait was laid for me, receiving by the way a letter from Wynebancke signifying that, shortly after he arrived at Dyste, about 40 of Landenberghe's horsemen came to his inn, enquiring "for an Englishman with a white beard," and the host, perceiving them "to be all chafed," conveyed Wynebancke out of his house. I took the party that brought the letter with me, and told Score how strange it was that 40 or 50 horse should be suffered by the rulers of a town of the Emperor's like Diest to stay a servant of the King, and that the officers should give him an oath not to depart "till he knew further." Score, as one half abashed, said he would write to have the said horses arrested, or any other who made like search, and to give Wynebanck conduct to Andwerpe. And so I departed in the night to Andwerp, where I await further instructions, and to hear from those whom I made instruments to obtain the services of Landenberghe's horsemen.
Spares to write particular answer to their letter by Francis the post, who after long seeking in the land of Luke arrived here an hour after him. If the footmen break up, as he doubts they will not, the King will have as many of their drums as desired. Andwerpe, 25 June. Signed.
Pp. 19. Add. Endd.: 1544.

Footnotes

  • n1. At this point the following words are cancelled and the above ending substituted:—"Thus fare you well. From Calais the xxijth of June 1544. Your loving friend."
  • n2. The Duke of Suffolk?
  • n3. See No. 573
  • n4. See No. 167.
  • n5. June 17th.
  • n6. No. 642 (2, 3, 4).
  • n7. Faue.
  • n8. Wyndebank.
  • n9. Layton.
  • n10. The lord of Altenstein. See No 769.
  • n11. Who this was does not appear.
  • n12. Layton