Henry VIII: October 1544, 7-10

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 19 Part 2, August-December 1544. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1905.

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'Henry VIII: October 1544, 7-10', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 19 Part 2, August-December 1544, (London, 1905) pp. 215-234. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol19/no2/pp215-234 [accessed 17 March 2024]

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October 1544, 6-10

6 Oct. 359. Otwell Johnson to [his Brother, John Johnson].
R.O. London, 6 Oct. 1544:—Since my coming over I have answered your letters received before my brother Gery's coming, save to send the prices of wares here (sent herein). In answer to your long letter brought by Mr. Gery (besides what is mentioned in my former letter and my sister your wife's, which I have been bold to open, having no other from her) my said sister had, before, sent your man Richard for money, to pay Mr. Bretain 20l. and as much for Harrysone and Barth. Hoese, besides the 40l. that she had of Mr. Smyeth. I despatched Richard home again on Saturday last with 40l. in fair gold, taken out of Henry Suthwekes' money in my hands, as Ant. White had promised to deliver me money before my going into the country (and has this day paid 64l. to make up 200l. for his mother's account. Harrysone's creditors here should be paid this Michaelmas 40l., whereof I have paid 10l. to Chr. Wyke of London Bridge, and intend to entreat the others, Mr. Laxton and Obsone of the Pultery, to forbear until your money due by Stokemed is received on the 20th inst. That and other your affairs I will leave to Mr. Smyth. I trust that you will assign some direct way to pay Mr. Laxton and Obsone if the whole 100l. of Stokemedes is prescribed to other use. I would have down with me enough to pay Mr. Hasilwode and for your other business, fearing that nothing more will be conveyed after me.
Woolwinders I can get none here to go to the country under 8d. a day, horsemeat and man's meat; and therefore we will set them a work that your wife writes of. Tomorrow I look for a horse from Tykeford, and there my sister's horse shall meet me on Saturday night. I carry down in ready money 30l. you sent me by Thos. Kelke, 14l. resting of Ant. White's money (above the 40l. sent to my sister and 10l. paid to Wykes) and 30l. which I have stayed of Hen. Suthwyke's money and now write to him herewith that you will repay. I appoint Thomas Smythe to pay Suthwyke's bills that may come to his hands meanwhile out "of such money of Mr. Cave's account and yours as you have lately sent him bills."
I have charged Robt. Brett to provide a piece of grey frieze for your men's liveries against your coming, and also frieze for your own coat; "howbeit you have a coat of frieze of the last year at home here into London."
Hol., pp. 2. Fly leaf with address lost.
6 Oct. 360. The Privy Council to Shrewsbury.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 218.
B. M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 332.
The King (of whose good return to his realm they will know ere this) takes their letters of the 2nd inst. and all their other proceedings in good part. As to Thos. Gower's credence, his Highness is pleased with the repairing of the blockhouse of Holy Island. The wardens should learn with what force Angus and Huntley prepare to enter; and shall, with the garrisons and borderers, and if necessary a further aid from the Bishopric, be ready to repel them. If the offers of Coldyngham are unfeigned and the place meet for a garrison to lie in, and if they will lay in hostages to serve against all men, the King accepts their offer. Meanwhile it is to be considered what captain and men are meet. Other Scottish gentlemen who may offer shall likewise be received. The King is pleased with the payment of the 20 pioneers and 17 horses; and Shrewsbury shall take order for taking forth certain men out of the East Marches. Wrote lately to know the amount of arrears due to officers and others at Berwyke, and await answer. Send the letters to Cassells's hostages to be delivered to them by the bringer thereof.
Draft by Petre, pp. 3. Endd.: M. to therle of Shrewesbury, vjo Octobris 1544.
Shrewsb. MS.,
A., p. 153.
Heralds'
College.
Lodge, i. 70.
2. Original letter of which the above is the draft. Dated Otford, 6 Oct. 1544. Signed by Cranmer, Wriothesley, Essex, Westminster, Browne and Petre.
P. 1. Add.
6 Oct. 361. Sir T. Cheyne to the Lord Deputy of Calais.
Harl. MS.
283, f. 195.
B. M.
This is to desire that bearer may have these hoys which he has now brought to Calais for transportation of my horse; for both they and my men are like to starve; and without your help I fear that the hoys will be taken away from him. Eftsoons "I desire your favour now in my great necessity." Sherlond, 6 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: To, &c., my lord Deputy of Calais.
6 Oct. 362. Michael Stanhope to Shrewsbury.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 224.
B.M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 334(1).
Received his of 5 Oct. from my lord President, and will make all diligence to advertise him. On Friday (fn. n1) last four sail of Scotchmen were seen at Skarbrough. Hull, 6 Oct.
Hol., p. 1. Add. (with order to the "post of Boroughebrigges" to convey the letter). Endd.: 1544.
6 Oct. 363. Shrewsbury and Others to Henry VIII.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 220.
B.M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 333.
Enclose letters of intelligence out of Scotland received yesternight from Wharton, with others from Robert Maxwell. Darneton, 6 Oct. 1544. Signed by Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
6 Oct. 364. Robert Brandlyng to Shrewsbury.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 228.
B.M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 335(1).
Thanks for his letters dated Darnton, 4 Oct., with the joyful news of the king's safe arrival at Dover. Has consulted the few mariners in this town not "dangered with sickness," who say that there is no ship or boat here able to go so nigh as to view the enemies and yet save themselves; for their best ships, 14 days past, fell among 17 sail of Scots, 4 of whom were great ships, and had much ado to save themselves. Yesterday, 5 Oct., came to Newcastle many Dutchmen, saying that they came forth of Scotland on 29 Sept., having been taken by 7 Scots ships of war, whereof were the Lyon with 300 men, the Mary Willybie with 200 and the rest small ships with small artillery, but full of men. These seven took 17 great corvers, fishing, and brought them to Lythe. Whether they abide there or are rigged forth again the Dutchmen know not. Certain French ships came forth of Scotland with these Scots, but were not returned to Scotland. Newcastell, 6 Oct. 1544. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.: mayor of Newcastell.
6 Oct. 365. The Privy Council at Calais to Henry VIII.
R.O. This forenoon the French light horse skirmished about Guysnes and Hammes without doing any hurt; and eight, of whom some were gentlemen, were taken prisoners at Guysnes. Having before sent 4,000 to the defence of the East marches, we sent footmen and horsemen towards Hammes to skirmish with them. Cannot certainly learn their number. They have put their gross artillery into Arde and carry their light pieces. Could not learn their captains (save that the Dolphin was said to be among them), until this afternoon the bp. of Arras, coming with the other ambassadors, reported as follows:—
That he was sent to the French king, who, at the Emperor's instance, agreed to send ambassadors to you for peace. These ambassadors departed, he thinks, the day after him, viz., Saturday (fn. n2) last, and are the same personages who were last with you. He arrived on Saturday night at the French camp beside Fyennes, where he found the Dolphyn, the duke of Orleaunce, the duke of Vandon and the Admiral. To the Admiral he declared his despatch from the French king, and the Admiral answered that, your Majesty being departed into England, the French king would entreat the matter at Calais. The bp. further said that, as his colleagues had already told us a great part of his charge, and we had written for power to treat, he had no further to say until the arrival of the French ambassadors.
After consultation, we answered that, knowing from the Emperor's ambassadors, yesterday, of the sending of the French ambassadors, we had indeed advertised your Majesty; but, as for commission to treat with them, we had neither written for it nor knew how you would take it, knowing of this brag of the Frenchmen, who, after he (the bp.) had told the Admiral of the French king's determination to send ambassadors, this day began to invade your countries. We, Norfolk, Suffolk and the lord Privy Seal, were left to defend your pieces and country and would treat of peace as you should appoint; and we thought that the French king should not be entreated by the Emperor to send to you for peace but pressed by virtue of the amity between the Emperor and you to sue for peace, and the French king, continuing in enmity with your Majesty, must be taken as enemy to the Emperor, and, upon this invasion of the Frenchmen with 10,000 men, you might demand the same aid for defence of your countries as you gave the Emperor last year. This doing of the French king cannot agree with his late league with the Emperor "wherein your Majesty's league is comprised." The bp. said that the French king is yet in war with you, and having brought his army to levy the siege of Montrell, made a show of doing somewhat; the Emperor would have spoken of an abstinence for you had you not said that your army was like to obtain Monttrell, "and (quoth he) the peace th'Emperor took was by your Majesty's contentment. We told him your Majesty was never content but reserving your Highness' league with th'Emperor. Hereat the Bishop cried out and said he would ever say to all the world that your Majesty was not content but with this addition, reserving your amity with th'Emperor:" he had no commission to treat of the specialities of that amity, but to solicit a good peace. We perceived them to be much astonied that we pressed them so much with the league.
Mons. de Bures is here arrived, and we have accounted with him for full payment of his band. The treasure here being disbursed, according to a schedule herewith, we were forced to assign him part of the money in Damselles' hands. Desire money sent hither; and also vessels for the army's transportation, for out of Flanders none are yet heard of. Calais, 6 Oct. Signed by Norfolk, Suffolk, Russell, Winchester, Gage and Ryche.
Pp. 4. Add. Endd.: 1544.
6 Oct. 366. The Treasurer of the Wars.
R.O. Memorandum of "payments made by me Sir Richard Ryche, knight, sith the xxiiijte day of September anno xxxvjo H. VIII," viz. paid in several parcels "as appeareth by a book" 55,348l. 17s. 3d.; and "resteth in my hands this present vjth day of October ao preced." 6,546l. 18s. The pay day of my lord of Suffolk's band begins on Saturday last, of my lord of Norfolk's on Wednesday next, of my lord Privy Seal's on Sunday next, and transportation of the army (besides that of horses) will cost 6,000l.
P. 1.
6 Oct. 367. Arras, De Courrieres and Chapuys to Charles V.
R.O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii., 225.]
The Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk and the rest of the King of England's Council, learning Arras's arrival last night, and being lodged far form the writer assembled this morning in the town house and (without being asked for audience) sent to say that they would be at leisure to talk with them if they wished it, either before or after dinner. As it seemed more convenient to the Council and would give a longer time, chose the after dinner, when Arras, referring partly to what De Courrieres and Chapuys had said yesterday, declared his charge to solicit and promote the peace between their master and the French king, urging the French king to condescend to the articles proposed to Cardinal de Belay and his colleagues, or else to send ambassadors here to treat, and how, finally, the French king, alleging the said articles to be intolerable, had condescended, for the Emperor's sake, to send ambassadors, who were to leave the day after Arras, viz., Saturday (fn. n3) last (as he wrote to the Emperor from the French camp); also that, at his passing the French camp, the Admiral told him that the King of England had crossed, and made difficulty about sending the French ministers, but, as the news was uncertain and he still hoped to find the King here, he had come. Learning for certain that the King had sailed and the Council remained here, he had this morning written, by the trumpet who brought him, the letter of which the copy goes herewith.
The Council then retired to consult, and at their return thanked Arras for the trouble he had taken, but knew not how their master, with his reputation, could listen to peace as matters now stood, for it seemed that the French did not come the right way for peace; threats would not move so powerful and spirited a prince, and the French were mistaken in thinking, while they were so near, to obtain the conclusion of the said treaty, both for that reason and because the said Dukes and Privy Seal, the persons to be communicated with, would be occupied day and night with the army as long as the French remained upon the King's ground; and, moreover, it seemed that the Emperor's gentleness would render the French more insolent, and, to effect peace, he should rather use authority with the French king than exhortation; and, since the Emperor had expressly reserved the treaty of closer amity, he ought to hold the French for enemies in case of invasion and declare to them his obligation thereby in terms befitting such a prince and friend in a matter of such consequence, mentioning especially that at his request the King withdrew from Montreil. And thus the Council would have entered an argument about the Emperor's obligation, saying, finally, that this was of themselves without yet knowing their master's wish, which they looked for daily.
Arras answered that as to the trouble he had taken he considered it a pleasure, and would do much more provided that the King considered himself served thereby: and they avoided the Council's argument by saying generally that the Emperor had done and would do all to which he was obliged, and they were here only to communicate upon Arras's charge, which did not extend, to that matter. He told them, however, in passing, that they ought to consider that the French king came into amity and confederation with the Emperor with their master's consent, so that several of the reasons they alleged did not apply; and that we believed the coming of the said ambassadors would be agreeable to the King, from what he said to De Courrieres and Chapuys at his departure, when he knew that the French were marching against him; and, as to reputation, their objections did not seem valid, for besides that their master teas in arms as well as the French, he had the advantage over them of Boulogne, and the French king was seeking peace and the Emperor was actively working therein; and, as to the authority of which they spoke, it did not become the Emperor to stipulate for the withdrawal of the French army when he could not promise the same of their master's, and also for the reasons which yesterday they approved; and that immediately afterwards, before being advertised that their master had raised the siege of Montreul, the Emperor dissolved his army, and as authority not accompanied with strength was of little estimation, it would have lost him his influence with the French king. Calais, 6 Oct. 1544.
Fr. pp. 4. Modern transcript of the original at Vienna, endd.: "receues a Bruxelles le ix dud. mois, 1544."
6 Oct. 368. Chapuys to Granvelle.
R.O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 226.]
The letters to the Emperor show the substance of the communications with this Council, at which De Courrieres and Chapuys were spectators and witnesses. With more reason the apples said Et nos quoque poma natamus and the fly on the ox's horn that he was ploughing, than we could say that we helped Mons. d'Arras, who needs no such Delius and Theseus. Chapuys' only grievance is that Arras would not write; but, in revenge, he has omitted many things in order to give him the trouble of remembering them. The Emperor could not have sent a person more meet for his charge; but in this case were lacking the two good foundations on which effectual negotiation can be based, the first being Opportunity, the mother of all fruitful actions, and the second the having the essential matter in good train, (fn. n4) without which no natural agent can do anything, and for the present Chapuys thinks that the communications, if they take place, will be fruitless, for, as De Courrieres and he last wrote, this King will on no account abandon his conquest, although, later, for reasons which Granvelle can well consider, he might condescend. For himself, would not be sorry if the French excused themselves from sending ambassadors here, for he doubts that nothing will be concluded and both parties might suspect the Emperor: but after both are wearied with expenses will be the time. In confirmation of the above, Winchester today told him in confidence, after asking leave to speak freely, that it seemed as if the Emperor, now standing well with France, had some sort of envy that his master kept some conquered ground from France and he kept none, and, not to leave his master that advantage and see him so great and increasing, wished to manage this agreement in order to deprive him of Boulogne and gain the thanks of the French. Winchester also told him, two days before, that it must not be said that the Emperor made peace with France by constraint, since he had obtained the conditions which he desired, vis. to provide for Milan in the person of Mons. d'Orleans with conditions formerly refused by the French, and that, as to Boulogne and the river Somme, it would only hare increased the cost of keeping the country and the perpetual hatred of the French, besides that the Emperor had more countries than he desired and only asked repose for himself and Christendom. And Chapuys could not stop his mouth until he told him that he did dishonour to his master, who had debated with Arras and Chapuys the considerations of (i.e. which led to) the said peace, saying they could not be worse if the Emperor had been prisoner in France. Calais, 6 Oct. 1544.
Fr. Modern transcript of the original at Vienna, pp. 3.
6 Oct. 369. Arras to the Admiral of France.
R. O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 224.]
Arrived last night, as the trumpet who carries this can tell, and learnt that the King embarked on Tuesday (fn. n5) for England, but has left here the dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk and the principal men of his Council to see to his army. As the Emperor's ambassadors have continually tried to incline the king of England to peace and to promote it, they have moved the Council to send for commission to treat, in order that at the coming of the Most Christian King's ministers the business may be at once begun; and they hourly look for the said power. Begs him to send his resolution. Does not write to "Messieurs" (the Princes?) so as not to trouble them. Calais, 6 Oct. 1544.
"Superscriptes a Monsr d' Hennebault, mareschal et admiral de France, etc."
Fr. Modern transcript of a copy at Vienna, p. 1.
6 Oct. 370. Wallop to the Council.
R.O. Yesterday afternoon I sent you two letters, one by an Irishman, the other by a courier of the Emperor; and yesternight after the gates were closed I learnt "that part of the Dolphin's camp was this night lodged at Ecotes half a mile from Landerton and a mile beyond camp" and also that many great pieces of ordnance were brought into Arde about 5 p.m. Now I think they have not only brought in this ordnance, but also victuals; which was the reason that part of the Dolphin's army lay so nigh; but it is "hard to say what he doth further mean," and therefore pray relieve us with some good number of men, "unless you know we shall not need them, and the slack coming of them doth make me so conjecture." Sir Thos. Palmer I keep here, who will be a good assistant if need be. Guysnes, 6 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.
6 Oct. 371. Wallop to the Council.
R.O. In answer to their letter just received, would have desired 1,500 men at least who should not have shown themselves until the enemies offered to enter. "Harkebusiers" had been best; but these three days I have wished that men had been sent with what weapons you pleased, "being so great and puissant an army camped so nigh us these iij days and daily skirmishing before the castle with us, as I have written you by sundry my letters, always in the same desiring you should have sent men hither for the surety of the town and castle; and if in case they had meant to come hither your rescue of men should have come too late unto me." Trusts that the danger is past, for since daybreak the enemies's horsemen have passed by upon Fyenes Hill, giving alarms about the castle, and these gentlemen taken say that their whole army will lie this night about Marguyson; still, doubting French wiles, he would have 1,500 men sent hither this night, thinking that the number ordained by the King will suffice. "These gentelmen sh[ow] me that the Kinges Mate may have peace if [he will], and that the bishop of Arras was yesterday [with the] Dolphin in the camp. Of those horsemen tha[t have been] taken this day is five gentlemen. If [it please] your Lordshippes that I shal send them to you [for to] comen with them I shall send them tomorrow. Thus, being glad that they arre passed bye, I commyt your Lordshippes to Almighty God." Guisnes, 6 Oct. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. pasted on.
6 Oct. 372. Hugh Gilles to Lord Cobham.
Harl. MS.
286, f. 290.
B.M.
This day learns "that the Dollffyn's camp is moved Saturday the vte of this month and doth repair towards Guisnes, at which place they intend to make a great alarm and so to victual Arde"; and then to separate into two armies, one to be occupied upon our bulwarks and the other to go to Boulloyn. They draw towards Ouderkerq "which maketh towards the Lau country." The victualler of their army declares that they will to Guisnes and Boulloyn, but other friends of Mr. Wyndebankes say that they will into the Lau country. Has sent out a man according to Cobham's command. Has communication all day with the Frenchmen that fetch victual at St. Homer, who say wondrous things, especially that at all cost the Dollffyn will have Boulloyn again. Although scant of meat and drink they brag much. Our friends of this country say that we dare not "tarry the Frenchmen." They pretend to be sorry at this sudden peace, but I perceive the contrary. Asks whether to come home when his man returns. Frenchmen may not carry out of this town more than one loaf apiece; but of all other things, as of horse and harness, there is no let. They now repair to encamp at Esperleke near Arde. St. Homer, 6 "Hocktober," 1544.
P.S.—Gave bearer 2 groats to pass through the high country and hear what he can. Frenchmen here in his lodging say that they doubt not to destroy the town of Guisnes, but apparently think the castle too strong.
6 Oct. 373. Charles V. to Arras, De Courrieres and Chapuys.
R.O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 223.]
Supposing that they will be all together at the receipt of this he answers to them jointly the letters of De Corrieres and Chappuis of the 2nd inst., received yesterday, and joins thereto what touches Arras's business with the king of France, for the pacification between him and England and the sending back of his ambassadors.
Approves the communication with the King of England at his departure and the remaining of De Corrieres and Chappuis with his Council. As to the English representations of the favour shown by the Emperor's subjects to five ensigns of French who passed through Bredenard, they shall say that the Emperor has no knowledge of it otherwise, and probably the Emperor's subjects could not oppose the passage and were overawed, but has remonstrated thereupon to the king of France's people here. The French have made great instance for victuals for their army (especially because much victual of all kinds comes into these countries from France) which the Emperor has refused, although by the treaty with England he might permit it, considering that Boulogne is not comprised in the said treaty: this particular is to be said or not as shall seem best. Is pleased that the King of England was so satisfied with the Sieur de Buren's services.
Returning to the agreement between France and England, the principal difficulty will be Boulogne. De Corrieres and Chappuis write that the English mean to retain it, and Arras that the French king will not in anywise leave it, as the French ministers have repeatedly said to the Emperor, alleging the reasons already written. Great dexterity must be used not to arouse the suspicion of either party, inasmuch as it is likely that the French ambassadors will at the outset require the restitution of Boulogne, and an absolute refusal might break off the practice, besides that Arras has heard the king of France say flatly that he would consent to no cessation of hostilities unless he first understood that the King of England would treat the said restitution. Can give no other information or instruction upon this point but to work, according to the good will shown by the parties and the state of their forces, to obviate the danger, either by sea or land. And herein reminds them of what he wrote in his last for a final accord or a truce.
The French ministers have spoken to the Emperor of the endeavour which they make by sending ambassadors and wishing to treat quickly for the reasonable satisfaction of the King of England, in pursuance of their submission by the last treaty to refer the decision to the Emperor; and this they have renewed to some of the Emperor's council, to the length of saying that if harm come of this war it will not be their fault, and hinting that they will have fulfilled that submission. This may be mentioned, if it might serve to induce the English to the accord, as a relation of the words of the French, and not as indicating that the Emperor aims at undertaking the settlement of the said differences, or would press them otherwise than suited their purpose.
They must have regard to the state of the French army by sea, and that the Emperor's ships on the coast of Calais do not risk themselves unduly; being careful, however, not to irritate the English. Bruxelles, 6 Oct. 1544.
Fr. Modern transcript of the original minute at Vienna, pp. 4.
7 Oct. 374. The Privy Council to Norfolk and Others.
R.O.
St. P., x. 101.
The King (learning from your letters of the 5th that the Emperor's ambassadors have declared to you their receipt of letters from the Emperor to the effect that he will observe the amity and that he made this peace without covenanting for abstinence for his Majesty because he thought his Majesty on the point of winning Montrell) is pleased that, if you, Norfolk, Suffolk and Privy Seal, are departed towards Bulloyn, as he expects, then you, Winchester, Mr. Comptroller and Mr. Riche, shall answer the Emperor's ambassadors as follows:—1. That the Emperor ought not, by the treaty, to have concluded peace without the common consent, and, although the King bare with him somewhat for the time of his necessity, reported by Mons. Darras, now that he is relieved of that necessity he should the rather declare himself to the observation of the treaty. 2. Where Card. Turnon declared to the Emperor that the conditions (fn. n6) required by the King were importable, his Highness marvels that the Emperor did not fully answer Turnon and the Admiral therein, seeing that the conditions were less than those which the French King before offered, by his accredited agents, which were declared to the Emperor, and might have been accepted if the King had not so earnestly observed the treaty; and these offers the Emperor must think much more reasonable now when the King has been at further great charges. And whereas one of the Emperor's ambassadors should have attended the King into England, he should now follow and attend here. 3. The excuse for the not coming of the French ambassadors into England is feigned, for they were detained justly and with their own consents, given before the Council and the duke of Alberkirk, and the King cannot but think that the French king will send his ambassadors into England, where they may have quicker expedition; but, if not, a commission is addressed to the Great Chamberlain, Winchester, Comptroller, Secretary Paget and Riche, with which the Great Chamberlain and Paget shall repair to Calais.
Meanwhile Winchester, Mr. Comptroller and Mr. Riche shall remain at Calais, and Norfolk, Suffolk and the Privy Seal return to Boloyn, there to proceed as appointed by the King's former letters, and as Sir Ric. Lee will have declared. As the master of the Ordnance is come to Dover, and most of the ordnance and munition of Montrell and Bulloyn is shipped to be brought into England, the King, fearing lest you have taken little or none for your defence, "being too well minded to come homeward," commands us to write to the master of the Ordnance to stay for you such light ordnance as you require and remain at Dover for the present. Finally, we are to send the copy of a letter which arrived yesterday from Bulloyn showing the hindrance to the King's affairs "by your so light coming away," whereby both the artillery and victuals left at Base Boloyn were in peril, the conservation of which is not to be ascribed to you. As this thing has been "very loosely handled many ways," the King commands us eftsoons to remind you, by diligence, to redubb the past.
Perceiving by your letters that the Cardinal of Lorayn liked the Emperor's motion for an abstinence, the King says that, if it were for six weeks or two months and on that side the sea only, he could be content, but if they thereby caused him to withdraw his army and .then did not conclude the peace he would be in danger of losing what he has won, and he means to keep his army there until he sees the conclusion between the commissioners. He is content, if the Emperor's ambassadors think it convenient, that during the communication both armies shall retire, the one to Montrell, Hedyn or further, and the other to Bulloyn, Bullonoys or Callys. For victuals at Bulloyn you shall take as much as may be spared from Callys and borrow of the provision at Bulloyn; and order is taken that upon knowledge of your arrival at Bulloyn, you shall have a sufficient furniture of all things within a day or two. From his captains and other servants in Bulloyn the King learns that a French gentleman and 3 or 4 other men of arms, being taken, confess that the Emperor offered to Mons. Dorlyaunce 2,000 or 3,000 Spaniards to serve against the King. Although the King cannot believe this it argues French practices to set suspicion between the Emperor and him. Otforth, 7 Oct. 1544.
P.S.—The King marvels that you have not already advertised the state of his army, the numbers of horsemen and footmen, how you have discharged the Almayns, and whether Mons. De Bures is gone.
Draft corrected by Petre, pp. 5. Endd.: "M. to the dukes of Norff. and Suff., etc."
R.O. 2. Earlier draft of the above, much corrected by Petre.
Pp. 13. Endd.
7 Oct. 375. Shrewsbury and Others to Henry VIII.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 222.
B. M.
Hamilton
Papers.
ii., No. 334.
Enclose letters from Wharton, with one to him from lord Somervile and certain credence in writing, also letters from the lord Warden of the East Marches, with one to him from Gilbert Swynho, of intelligence out of Scotland, and a letter from the governor of Hull, to whom they wrote to make out a boat to learn how the Scottish ships were furnished. Darneton, 7 Oct. 1544. Signed by Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
7 Oct. 376. Sir George Douglas to Sadler.
Add. MS.
32,655. f. 240.
B. M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 339(1).
I wrote you by my servant, who returned saying that you would send him the answer by post; and as yet I have received none. I mentioned that I would have spoken with you; and now, being upon the Borders, I sent to Sir Ralph Eyvere, but he would nowise meet me without my lord Lieutenant's command. Would gladly declare matters to help forward the King's affairs if Sir Ralph had command to appoint some reasonable place. Dare not write to the King, who is said to be heavily miscontented with him, but trusts that Sadler will let him know the King's pleasure. Gedbruche, 7 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
7 Oct. 377. The Privy Council at Calais to the Council.
R. O. We have this hour received your letters dated Otforde, 4th inst., showing that our letters to the King of the cause of our departure from Boleyn are not yet received; for we doubt not but when he has read them he will take our doing in good part, and, when we have particularly declared the circumstances, will think we did good service. As we acted for the safeguard of the King's people, the preservation of Boleyn and resistance of the enemy, howsoever it be misliked at the first hearing, we know that in the end our true service will be considered. Our return to Boleyn is not possible, for the enemy occupy the field with 10,000 horsemen and 40,000 footmen. Of horsemen the strangers are all despatched, half of whom refused to tarry longer at Boleyn, and of ours such as had 100 can scarce make 20. Of footmen we have placed a good number for defence of the Pale and Guisnes, and so many are sick, so many dead since our arrival here and so many too "feebled" to travail, that we cannot amass 8,000 fighting men. If you had seen the musters you "would think the company very unmeet either to go to Boleyn or tarry there." Thus much we thought requisite to write upon receipt of your letters. Calais, 7 October. Signed by Norfolk, Suffolk, Russell, Winchester, Gage, Riche.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1544.
7 Oct. 378. Suffolk to Henry VIII.
R.O.
Nott's
Howard.
App. xx.
As the King showed him special favour and credit, he had rather spend his life than be driven to make any excuse why he did not as commanded. Nothing has grieved him more than this departure from Boleyne and he saw none here but were ready to tarry at Boleyne if the case would have suffered it. Begs Henry to accept the doings here, and not to show displeasure to the rest, whereby people and captains might be discouraged hereafter. Callayce, 7 Oct. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1544.
7 Oct. 379. Wallop to the Council.
R.O. This present hour is passed by a great company of the Dolphin's horsemen along Fingnes Hille and the ordnance goes "down in the bottom." The number of his footmen is 60,000, men of arms 2,000, light horse 2,000, and but 12 pieces of ordnance (the rest being brought into Arde as I wrote this morning), as four prisoners taken by my horsemen "between this and the wood" declare, three of whom are proper gentlemen of the old duke of Lorayn's band and the fourth a lansknecht of Lodvyk van Tevyn's band. They say that the Emperor has sent to the Dolphin's camp Mons. de Guysse and Mons. de Navalle that were with him in hostage, and receives Ivoye in Lutsenburghe from the French king. Also that the Dolphin goes towards Bowlonge and will camp this night beside Fingnes; wherefore pray send me this night a good number of footmen. Three more horsemen taken in Wetffelde are just brought in, and still my horsemen are in skirmish with them. Guisnes, 7 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.
7 Oct. 380. Wallop to the Council.
R.O. Since my letter this morning my horsemen have taken two footmen, an Italian and a Frenchman, going to Arde to buy bread. Both confess the rearguard to lie at Beawlew and the battle a league beyond, and that these do not remove this day, but the Dolphin, with a great number of horsemen and 5,000 or 6,000 chosen men, is gone to Bullen to essay an assault. Why they lie here, unless for lack of victuals, I cannot judge. These prisoners say that yesternight they had no bread and this morning 600 carts came from Amyas to furnish their camp. "From Abeville cometh none because they die." Doubting the worst, I pray you see us furnished with 1,000 footmen, for of those appointed yesterday not above 300 are come and Dyer brought not 60 hither. "These things touch me so nigh that I must needs importunate you with my letters."
A trumpet of the bailly of Vitry, marshal of the camp, just come to ransom the three men of arms taken yesterday, says that the Dolphin is not gone to Bullen but lies in his camp beside Marguyson, with the battle and the voward; and that those who went to Bullen were the Piemontoiez, whose captain is Mons. de Desynye, and those at Beawlew are light horses.
The trumpet says "that the most part of the camp asketh a vengeance for the yielding up Bullen to put them now to so great pain, he (fn. n7) being now at the camp." Guysnes, 7 Oct. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.
7 Oct. 381. Jaque Dittre to Norfolk.
R.O. As suggested at his departure from Calais, sent a man to the French camp and expected him back yesterday, but he is not yet returned; A personage of credit has, however, partly told him their deliberation, and that they are a great army in number, but, if it came to fighting, the most part is only "rapaille et gen quey sieute. Mais pour le princheypal espoir queil onnt cest quey deysete quey meteronnt sey grosse armee par mer que vous ne povez secoure la veille de Boullongne quey sera cause quey faudra quelle se rende sans lasailleir ne la battre; et esteime quelle soit entierement despourveute, che que je suis seur quey trouveront le contrayre. Cest ung peytie de voir leurs gen darmereye et princeypallement leurs cheval legei[er], car yl sont legeier a cause que la char ne leurs enpeschet point a coure, car nont que les ois."
Has no more to say at present but will advertise all when his man returns. Saint Tomer, 7 Oct. 1544.
Fr. Hol., pp. 2. Add.: "Monseigneur, Mons. le deuc de Noeirrefocq, a Calleis."
7 Oct. 382. French Proposals.
R.O. A memorandum headed as delivered to the Emperor on behalf of the Most Christian King, viz.:—
That these two princes have made a treaty of peace for the sake of Christendom and the repose of their subjects, postponing their own profit to that of Christendom. That the Emperor wished to comprehend the King of England therein and leave him means of getting payment of the pensions he claims from the Most Christian King, who, although he had many reasons for not entering this dispute, for the public weal and to please the Emperor, was willing that the Emperor should be arbiter thereof. That the King of England has seized Boulogne, which he cannot retain without forfeiting the place left for him in this peace; for he cannot both retain Boulogne and demand the pensions which were granted heretofore for his claims to the realm of France. If the King of England insists upon retaining Boulogne and will not immediately restore it, the Most Christian King protests that he ought to be excluded from this treaty as a disturber of Christendom, while he himself should be quit of the pensions and other things that he may claim upon the realm of France, (fn. n8) which, as aforesaid, were referred to the Emperor's arbitrament rather for the weal of Christendom and to please the Emperor than for any doubt about soon ending this affair of England and bringing that King to reason. That, if the King of England will immediately restore Boulogne, the King is content that he enjoy the benefit of this peace and that the Emperor remain arbiter of their differences, although he hopes soon to recover Boulogne by force and by that means be quit (demeurer quicte) of the said pensions and of all claims.
Fr., pp. 2. Modern transcript of a MS. at Vienna, endd.: Escript du Cardinal de Tournon, bailie le viie d'Octobre '44.
8 Oct. 383. Henry VIII. to Norfolk and Others.
R.O.
Nott's
Howard,
App. xviii.
Answers to their several letters that, like as no master is more willing to take in good part the doings of his counsellors, although sometimes they may fail in executing his commandments, so none can hardlier bear "bolstering and unaparent reasons, specially when they enculke a fayned necessitie, to cloke and mayntayn their faultes to moch aparant to indifferent yees." 1. When they were determined, as commanded, to encamp near Bolloyn, is it to be well taken that, upon an uncertain report, they should suddenly do the contrary? 2. Marvels that they should think a town so ruinate might be in 5 or 6 days repaired to resist a main power of France; and yet they left most of the victuals and all the ordnance in Basse Boloyn, so that if the enemies had come, as thank God they did not, in all likelihood "town and all" had been lost. 3. They make it a certainty that they would spend victuals faster than the same might be sent to them, but, having taken order therein, at his repair into England, of which order they were not yet advertised, he thinks otherwise. 4. Where they allege that many who were at Muttrell had burnt their tents and could not conveniently tarry in the field, he thinks that men willing to serve would not have had so much respect to their own persons; "for how can the Frenchmen keep the camp, their victuals and forage being so far devastated round about, and the way so ill to carry, and their provisions scantly well ordered for them, the time of the year also well considered, when you excuse yourself that you cannot lie so nigh a good town, and such a village as Basse Bulloyn is being in your aid, with the haven for your victual so commodious to come to you?" 5. Though Lee and Rogers might say that it were hard in a short time to make a bastilion to withstand an army, their knowledge has been learned from the King, and the doing of it should not have been relinquished until he had spoken.
Now by their letter of the 6th they advertise that they have discharged all the Almains (contrary to his command) because half of them refused to tarry at Bulloyn (where he knew that they could not abide for lack of fodder), meaning apparently to make it impossible for him to keep themselves there, which is verified by their declaring their able men to be so few, whereas the charges this month are as large or larger than ever. We pray you "to seek no more indirect excuses to cloak your ill-favoured retreat but rather study and be as vigilant to see our honor, herein somewhat touched, redubbed," and, if peace follow not, to preserve our pieces and withstand our enemy. your best way to make recompense is to devise how to return to Bolloyn, where, if peace follow not, we purpose that you shall remain until the fortification of the haven is finished, as signified by Sir Ric. Lee ; and therefore, leaving our other pieces sufficiently furnished with men, and having good assurance against the French army, if you can pass thither you shall do acceptable service. Money and victuals shall be provided at Bulloyn. If you cannot pass without hazard, we require to know what men and other things must be sent to you; for if the peace go not forward we mean to reinforce you with fresh men, to beard the enemies if need be and tarry out the fortification of the haven. In view of your going to Bulloyn we have left you out of the commission of treaty with the French ambassadors, and doubtless you will consider how little honor it will be for you to remain at Calays and be thus left out. In case the French ambassadors are already come, you, Winchester, Gage and Riche, shall entertain them and say that Hertford and Paget are on the way towards you with ample commission and instructions.
Draft, pp. 4. Endd.: M. of the King's Mates letter to the dukes of Norff. and Suff., etc., viijo Octobris 1544.
R.O. 2. Fragment of an earlier draft of the above, from "the third point" to the end
Pp. 8, much corrected by Paget. Endd.: M. of the King's Mates letter to the Counsell at Callys, viijo Octobris 1544.
8 Oct. 384. The Privy Council to Riche.
R.O. Upon sight of his account (fn. n9) enclosed in the common letters of the Council there, the King much marvels that, whereas they write that their number is but 8,000, their expenses for these fourteen days have been more than the ordinary wages of the whole army when there were 42,000; and also that for conduct and transportation of soldiers and horses at 2s. per man he asks 6,000l., whereas 800l. would suffice if the number is but 8,000. You must send over with diligence "a more plain and more certain declaration, as well of th'expenses already paid as of your remain and what shall be due at the next pay day "—upon receipt whereof money shall be sent.
Draft in Petre's hand, p. 1. Endd.. M. to Mr. Riche, viij Octobris 1544.
8 Oct. 385. Sir Anthony Knyvet to Wriothesley.
R.O. I have received 500l., which I wrote to your Lordship for, and with it discharged six score workmen and paid all men for September, and some money remains. I have paid 900l. odd, for which I trust to make a true account, in the absence of Mr. Deane, (fn. n10) who is still very sick. The carriage of the money cost 6l., for it took 10 men and 8 horses "because there were so many men 'reysed' in the country to go to Bulleyne." There was never such a piece of work brought up with so little cost. When the King sees the work, which was of his Majesty's own device, I trust your Lordship, and we here, shall have thanks. I beg you get me leave to come to the King; I will bring the "plat" of the fortifications done since I came hither. I am bound to your Lordship for putting me to such "worship" in this country, both for the great cheer and the hunting at Tytchefylde and other parks of your lordship's. Portsmouth, 8 Oct. Signed.
P.S. in his own hand.— Begs answer by bearer.
Pp. 2. Add.: High Chancellor of England. Endd.: 1544.
8 Oct. 386. Ulvescroft.
R.O. Receipt headed "Ulvescrofte" given by Thos. Massye, clk., 8 Oct. 86 Hen. VIII., to George Gyffard for his half year's pension due at Mich. last, 56s. 8d. Signed.
Small slip, p. 1.
8 Oct. 387. Shrewsbury and Others to Henry VIII.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 226.
B. M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 335.
Enclose letters from the Warden of the Middle Marches with one to him from Sir George Dowglas, and others from the mayor of Newcastell. As Sir George desires to show matters to the King's contentation, and the Warden may decipher the cause of his and his brother's coming to the Borders, and get knowledge of affairs of Scotland, have written to him to appoint a short day with Sir George, but to grant no such assurance to the Mershe and Tevidale as Sir George desires until the King's pleasure is known. As to the Scottish ships, can learn no more than is already advertised, and as the mayor of Newcastell writes. Darneton, 8 Oct. 1544. Signed by Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
8 Oct. 388. Carters from Namur.
R.O. Account of wages due to carters and their five conductors (named) who brought 700 lymoners from the county of Namur to serve the King, from 31 Aug. and 15 July respectively, until 8 Oct. 1544. Total 1,325l. 15s.
French, p. 1. Endd.: Somes des gaiges deu au conducteurs et ch'l' lymonirs Namurois sydedens appert.
8 Oct. 389. Griffith Appenrith and John Broke to Carne.
R.O. We received by your lordship's servant three placards to levy certain hoys for the transportation of the King's army at such prices as the mariners had for transporting it hither, but doubt we shall not obtain them at that price, "28 stivers for the ton by the month," because, (1) now that it is winter, more men are needed to govern their hoys, (2) then they had war with France and Estelande and there was no traffic, (3) then, too, the angel was 7s. 6d. when they made their bargain, but was enhanced to 8s. at their, pay day, (4) divers of them lacked wages because after 16 July they returned out of England empty and were paid only to the 16th, (5) also at Calais, Dover and other places they were beaten and ill treated and set in stocks and the like. They now refuse 33 stivers and will not serve under a crown of gold, which is 38 stivers; and, whereas our commission was to take them for 14 days, they will be assured for two months. None will promise to depart hence before Monday, 13 Oct. We will see what they will "do now by compulsion by this placard." Middelborowe, 8 Oct.
Desiring you to advertise the King's Council hereof.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: To, etc., the King's Majesty's ambassador resident at Brussels. Endd.: 1544.
9 Oct. 390. Henry VIII. to Charles V.
R.O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 227 and
240.]
See No. 462.
9 Oct. 391. Henry VIII. and Charles V.
R.O. Commission to Edward earl of Hertford, viscount Beauchamp, K.G., Governor of Jersey and Great Chamberlain, Stephen bp. of Winchester, Sir John Gage, K.G., Comptroller of the Household and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Sir Wm. Paget, one of the two Prime Secretaries, and Sir Ric. Riche, great treasurer of the King's Wars, to treat with commissioners of Charles V. for a perpetual confederacy and amity between the Princes and their successors and certain leagues and truces offensive and defensive, and also for the confirmation, reformation, correction, &c., of certain treaties, as well of peace as of intercourse and commerce, heretofore made between them. Otford, 9 Oct. 1544, 36 Hen. VIII. Signed by Henry VIII. at the foot. Countersigned: Godsalve.
Parchment. Seal gone.
R.O. 3. Modern copy of § 2.
Pp. 3. Endd.
392. Negotiations with France.
R.O.
St. P., x. 63.
"My lord of Hertford and Mr. Pagettes instructions to treat with the French ambassadours, 1544."
The French king, to make peace with us, having now sent to Calais the cardinal of Bellay, the premier president of Rowen, his secretary Laubespine and the High Treasurer of his Finances, Destourmel, albeit we might doubtless by the sword win a larger satisfaction than by treaty, we are, for the sake of Christendom, content to address to Calais "our forsayde counsayllours," as commissioners to treat and conclude with the French commissioners and to proceed with such commissioners as shall repair on the Emperor's behalf. And because the foresaid French commissioners began before to treat and we delivered them articles of our demands (fn. n11) (and advertised the Emperor thereof) which are not so large as the French king has heretofore offered and are "much lower than by the treaty the Emperor is bound to see us satisfied of," our commissioners shall stand to the former articles, viz. "primier etc.," and endeavour to induce the French commissioners to them. If the French commissioners allege their King's command to the contrary and offer lower conditions, our commissioners shall declare them to the Emperor's commissioners, with a request that they will press the French commissioners to go through with them, or else the appointment between their masters, being made with reservation of the amity between us and the Emperor, cannot stand; for if the French king remain enemy to us he must, by the treaty, be enemy to the Emperor. If the French commissioners will not relent, and are ready to depart unless we descend lower, they are to be reminded that we have been at great charges since last convention and yet demand no more, and to be asked which demands they think too hard. Upon their answer, our commissioners shall say that they will advertise us; and advise them meanwhile to remain there.
If the Cardinal of Bellay seems to continue in his good inclination to us, our commissioners shall (as of themselves) move him to repair to our presence, where he may peradventure effect things to the contentation both of us and his master, offering that one of them will accompany him; and in that case –––– (blank) shall, with him, repair to us.
Draft corrected by Paget, pp. 11. Endd. as above.
9 Oct. 393. W. Lord Seint John to Lord Cobham.
Harl. MS.
283, f. 172.
B.M.
Thanks him for his letter for the despatch of his (Seintjohn's) servants and horses. Will send by the next wind bread, beer, wheat, meal and malt sufficient for the town and the army. By the second loading, he shall have plenty. Believes that he still has beef and mutton, and his purveyors have great quantities at the waterside, and so has Seintjohn, if it is needed. Sends wheat, malt, oats, wood and coal for him, Mr. Treasurer and the town, thinking that he is badly provided with these things. Wishes to know the certainty from him or Mr. Treasurer, and he will send plenty, for he would not have Calais or Guisnes unfurnished for half a year. On Tuesday last the ordnance appointed for Calais and Guisnes lay in the street at Basebullyn, and he thinks the master of the ordnance there has taken it to the town. If not, it were well that the master of the ordnance of Calais "took order for it that it were with you with powder necessary to serve for all needs, whereof Guisnes has as much need as you." Dover, 9 Oct.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: To my very good lord, my lord deputy of Calais.
9 Oct. 394. Earldom of Clanrickard.
Lamb. MS.
603, p. 18.
i. The "petition of lord Fitzwilliam Bourke, and order taken thereon" [at Limerick 4 March 33 Henry VIII. See Vol. XVII. No. 146].
ii. Order made by the lord Deputy and Council at Limerick, as to the rule of Clanricard, 9 Oct. 36 Hen. VIII.
The King, by letters patent, (fn. n12) granted Ulick Burke alias Fitz William de Burgh the rule of Clanricard, with the title of earl to him and his heirs male. At his death it came in doubt who was his heir male. He first married Grany, daughter of Mulrone O'Karwell, and had issue Ric. Burke; then, while that marriage remained in force, he married Honora, sister of the present Ulick de Burgh, but afterwards divorced her (whether lawfully or not is not known) and married Mary Linche, by whom he had issue John Burke. The said Honora and Mary allege that the first marriage was not lawful as Grany was already the wife of O'Mollaghlen; and this they are to prove before Purification next. The gentlemen of the country, according to custom, chose the said Ulick for their governor, by the name of McWilliam, contrary to the King's statutes, but he has, upon summons, come before the lord Deputy and Council at Limerick and submitted himself. Whereupon the following order is made:—
Order recited, in nine articles, appointing the said Ulick to rule the country during the minority of the heir or heirs male of the Earl, under certain conditions, and providing for the settlement of various specific disputes.
Copy, pp. 10. (§ ii in Latin.) See Carew Calendar, No. 185.
9 Oct. 395. Norfolk and Others to the Council.
R.O. This hour, 8 a.m., arrived the enclosed letter from the lord Admiral and Council at Boleyne, showing that they have served the King valiantly to the discourage of the enemies. Hear not certainly whether the Doulphin's army is retired, but see a great fire where they lay last night. Prisoners taken yesterday reported that he would retire. Yesterday he sent 1,000 hacquebussyers to alarm Guisnes, and himself watched them out of gunshot. "They approached very galliardly and were well repulsed, and some taken. So as the Doulphyn, being disappointed to have environed our whole army at Boleyne and to have hobbied us with horsemen, hath now hopped and leaped hither and thither, and lost well-favouredly in both places, and so is like to return without any our damage, who have well preserved the King's Majesty's Pale and people and put him in fear to tarry in any place, whereof we thank Almighty God that gave us grace so to do." Calice, 9 Oct., 10 o'clock. Signed by Norfolk, Suffolk, Russell and Winchester.
Pp. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
9 Oct. 396. Riche to the Council.
R.O. Has not above 3,000l. of the King's treasure. "The pay days ben very near, and one pay day is this present day. I have paid to the Count[ye] [of] Bures 3,500l. and divers other sums sith the last letter sent to your good lordships from the Counsell." The poor soldiers may ill forbear their money. Victual and shipping is very scant. Begs them to move the King for the speedy sending of money; and, to bring it, sends his servants, Raf Standisshe and Edward Corbett, to whom he asks "you Mr. Pagett" to give credence in certain his requests. Calys, Thursday, 9 Oct.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.. 1544.
10 Oct. 397. For Reinforcements.
R.O. Letters missive requiring the persons addressed (whom the King understands, by report of the Council attending the Queen, to have been diligent in setting forward such men as were required in Sussex for service in the wars and in all other things committed to them, for which he hereby thanks them), whereas the King has left on the other side of the seas a great part of his army and may have occasion to reinforce it, to take order that 400 footmen, whereof 80 to be archers, may be "specially billed, appointed and chosen" in Sussex, and put ready, with a captain for each hundred, to set forth at one hour's warning. Otford, 10 Oct. 36 Hen. VIII. (Another date added, viz., Westm., 6 Oct.)
Draft, p. 1. Endd.: M. sent to the justices of peace in divers shires for putting in aredynes of certen nombres of men, xo Octobris 1544. Item, herein inclosed the names of the shires and the nombr. of the men.
10 Oct. 398. The Privy Council to Hertford and Paget.
R.O.
St. P., x. 108.
The King, having seen your letters dated at Syttingborn this morning, has willed us to signify that you shall continue on your journey towards Calayce; and notes no inconvenience although you do arrive before the other ambassadors, the town being his. We are commanded to write to my lord Chamberlain to stay all able soldiers who come over to Dover or thereabouts and send them back. His Highness approves the commission for my lord Admiral and safe conduct for the ambassadors with blanks as you devise, for expedition whereof we now write to my lord Chancellor. Otforde, 10 Oct., 3 p.m. Signed by Cranmer, Essex, Westminster and Petre.
In Petre's hand, p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
10 Oct. 399. The Privy Council to Norfolk and Others.
R.O. The King has been advertised that, notwithstanding his pleasure signified sundry times for your abode there, you daily send his soldiers homewards, as if indirectly "to enforce your own retyre"; and he commands us eftsoons to signify that from henceforth you do cease from sending away any but such as are unfeignedly sick, for he will rather reinforce your number than that you should thus return. Where in your letter of the 10th you mention the good service done by his captains at Bulloyn, he will have us write that he has no cause to thank you; for if they had not had better respect to his affairs, and to his victuals and ordnance left in Base Bulloyn by you, than you seem to have had, all might have been lost; whereas if you had remained at Bulloyn and sent men for the defence of his Pale, Bulloyn had been out of danger. He marvels that at least "some of you be not ashamed to see the Frenchmen lie so sore sparkled ab[road] though you affirm them to be so great a number (which his Majesty believeth not, nor by none others can perceive the same) and do not enterprise upon no part of them, being another manner of number than our poor men of Bulloyn be, and yet lie still and do no good but spend victuals and munition and do no service therefor."
Draft corrected by Petre, pp. 4. Endd.: M. sent from the Counsell to the dukes of Norff. and Suff., &c., xo Octobris 1544.
10 Oct. 400. Shrewsbury and Others to Henry VIII.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 230.
B.M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No.336.
Enclose letters received yesternight from the Wardens of the East, West and Middle Marches, showing the raids they have made in Scotland and their intelligence from thence. Darneton, 10 Oct. 1544. Signed by Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
10 Oct. 401. The King's German Soldiers.
Add. MS.
5,753, f. 170.
B.M.
Acknowledgment of receipt by Albert Bysscop, servant of the King of England, France and Ireland, from Sir Ralph Fane, the King's commissary, of 1,915 Philippus reckoned at 25 patars of Brabant, paid by order of the King and his Privy Council, wages of 36 combatants on horseback for two months and twelve days' service and one month for return [home] from 31 July to 10 Oct. '44, and also of 2 "keurytsers" and 3 "charyotz." Cales, 10 Oct. 1544. Signed: per my Albricht' Bysschoff.
French, p. 1. Endd.
Ib.173. 2.The like by Yttelwolff de Goetenberch seingneur a Ytteh, captain of 470 horsemen, for 44,175 Phs. from Fane and 4,892 Phs. from Colonel Chr. van Landenberch, for wages of horsemen, &c., from 1 June to 10 Oct. Cales, 10 Oct. 1544. Signed: Ich, Eyttell Wolff van Gudenbergt, her czu Itter, myn hant.
French, p. 1. Sealed.
Ib. 174. 3. The like by Hillemer van Quernem, captain of 127 horsemen, for 12,319 Phs. from Fane and 655 Phs. from Landenberch, service 1 June to 10 Oct. Cales, 10 Oct. 1544. Signed: Hylmer van Qwernem myn hant.
French, p. 1. Sealed.
Ib. 176. 4. The like by Philippus van Heur, captain of 50 horsemen, for 1,399 Phs. (reckoned at 10 stooters) from Fane, service 12 days, 28 Sept. to 10 Oct.'44. Cales, 10 Oct. 1544. Signed: Philips van Horde (?) her tzu Stornede (?).
French, p. 1.
Ib. 178 and
177.
5. Requests of Joncker Philippe van Hoerd for wages of himself and men, detailed, for the first fourteen days of September, 60l. 3s. 4d. and for the last fourteen 67l. 7s. 4d. (undated). Signed: W. Essex.
Two papers, each p. 1.
Ib. 193b. 6. Acknowledgment by Crystoffel van Prysborch, captain of 415 horsemen, for 48,209 Phs. from Fane and 4,814 Phs. from Landenberch, service 1 June to 10 Oct. Calles, 10 Oct. 1544. Signed: Cristoffer van Prisberck meyn hant.
French, pp. 2. Sealed.
Ib. 195. 7. The like by Otto count of Rytberch, for 5,242 Phs. from Fane and 304 Phs. from Landenberch for 41 horsemen, &c., service 1 June to 10 Oct. Cales, 10 Oct. 1544. Signed: Otto grave zum Retberge.
French, p. 1.
Ib 197. 8. The like by Hans van Winsigenroot, captain of 321 horsemen, for 30,875 Phs. from Fane and 2,328 Phs. from Landenberch; service 1 June to 10 Oct. Cales, 10 Oct. 1544. Not signed.
French, p. 1. Sealed.
10 Oct. 402.Norfolk and Others to Henry VIII.
R.O.
St. P., x. 106.
This morning, much to their discomfort, received his letters of the 8th showing that their reasons for repairing towards Calais are not in his judgment of sufficient weight. As they meant to do for the best they humbly beg favour. Think that they will do better service to plainly declare their state than to enterprise what they cannot perform. All their horsemen strangers are gone, save 120. Discharged them because there was no forage here, and they refused to serve "and waxed very froward." Of their own horsemen some are gone over and most of the rest "clearly decayed and marred." Of their footmen they have placed a great number in Guisnes and the marches, a great many are sick and gone home and many sicken and die daily. This day there lie dead and unburied 16 in St. Nicholas' church and twelve in the streets. As for boarding the enemy, he intends not to tarry and is already retired from Merguyson and will leave Henry the honor of the field.
It is bruited (and Arraz affirms that he heard it in Feannot) that ships with victual are to repair from Normandy to the coast of Bullen. Have warned the navy on the sea of this. As ordered by letters of the Council, spoke with the Emperor's ambassadors this morning, and perceive that the French ambassadors have stayed only to hear whether Henry would send commission to Calais. The Emperor's ambassador says that he wrote to the Emperor of Henry's contentment with his tarrying here. To the rest the ambassadors made no other answer than was signified in the writers' letters of the 6th, viz., that they expect a good conclusion and are glad that a commission is sent hither.
Will advertise the certainty of the Dolphin's departure as soon as they can hear of it, and also new musters of their own men, sick and whole. Calais, 10 Oct. Signed by Norfolk, Suffolk, Russell, Winchester, Gage and Ryche.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.
10 Oct. 403. Arras, De Courrieres and Chapuys to Charles V.
R.O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 228.]
Received the day before yesterday, at one time, two of his letters of the 6th inst., and immediately afterwards Winchester came to say that the Council marvelled that the boats for the passage were not come, and prayed them to write to the Emperor therein. Declared what provision the Emperor had made, as contained in the said letters, and, therewith, the unlawful transport of Flemish mares [and] ill treatment of carters and victuallers. He said that order would be taken; as also did the Council, this morning, who wished to persuade the writers that so few mares were transported as not to be worth speaking of and that now they had enough ado to pass their own horses, and, as to the bad treatment of carters and victuallers, it might well be believed that in so great a camp there would be some some disorder; but, for any proved wrong, reparation would be made, and they had reason enough to complain of the carters, for some of the conductors of the artillery, either by malice or because drunk, would have put some pieces into the hands of the French, and, in seeking for beer, they lingered on the road or scattered themselves, and if any were lost it was by their own fault, who always wanted to forage at will without waiting for escort; as to their payment they would be satisfied to the last penny, but must have patience for some days, because the treasurer (fn. n13) who had it in hand went from Boulogne into England; and, as they and their horses would die of hunger if they waited here, the Council prayed the writers to exhort them to withdraw, leaving some person or persons to receive their pay. The Council took in good part the Emperor's sending back a commissary of victuals to Gravelines, with whom they have arranged for delivery of victuals at the limit of the King's jurisdiction, as mentioned in the Emperor's letters; and they are satisfied with the Emperor's order against assisting the French with victuals, saying that they suppose it impossible to keep the peasants and women from carrying their wares where they could sell them, and that they themselves, at the siege of Monstreul, would have died of hunger if the peasants of Hesdin and thereabouts had not daily brought them victuals. The Council also took in good part the Emperor's answer as to the passage of the five ensigns through Bredenarde, and think that the advertisements thereof were true. As to the Emperor's five ships of war here, the writers have advised "le visadmiral nester" (fn. n14) of the Emperor's intention, who would willingly have staid here for fifteen days if he had been able to buy beer, of which the ships have suffered lack these five or six days (what they carried being all spoilt) but the writers fear that the ships will have to go into Zealand as the said "Maistre" and they cannot get, even by the authority of the Council, more than seven barrels of beer, which is nothing for seven hundred men, so that if they withdraw, those here will have no great reason to demand anything of them.
As to the principal affair; the Council having, late yesterday, letters from their master, sent to say that they would come to us this morning at 8 a.m. with the answer to what we proposal touching the communication upon the peace. The substance of it was that the King, considering that things could be briefly concluded in England, knew not why the French ambassadors made difficulty about passing thither, and the Emperor might well promote that; and, moreover, that the King was astonished that the French alleged the conditions (fn. n15) presented to the Cardinal of Paris and his colleagues to be intolerable, which were much less than those demanded before the war, as contained in the treaty of closer amity, indeed much less than had been offered to him by the king of France. Arras, omitting to touch upon the reasonableness of the conditions, gave account of the instance which the Emperor and he (on the Emperor's behalf) had made that, in case the King of England had crossed, the French ambassadors should go over to him; declaring what he did therein with the Admiral of France. As they were beginning to say that Arras could again write therein, letters arrived from their master, which, after consultation among themselves, they said, contained little mention of the matteronly that he had despatched the earl of Arforq and Secretary Paget with power to hear the communications, supposing that Norfolk, Suffolk and. the Privy Seal would be busy enough with the war. The Council asked what news they had of the French ambassadors, and Arras answered in accordance with what the Admiral of France had written to him, and told the substance of his reply (copies herewith, together with copy of letters received this after dinner from the Admiral, and of the answer). To shorten affairs, the Council thought that Arras should despatch to the Admiral to know if the ambassadors would come (quant il seroit question de la venu desdits ambassadeurs) and their names and number, so as to deliver them safeconduct conformable to the power which the said Dukes had; and, for this purpose, immediately after their departure they sent a trumpet, to whom Arras gave a letter (copy herewith)
Those here have lately evinced great satisfaction with Mons. de Buren, for three or four days that he was here, feasting him very highly, and the more so in order to make us feel that we were not welcome; Briant, especially, could not refrain from saying to Buren that we others ought to take it ill that we were not called to the feasts, and although the words of such an author are not to be built upon, still, as these men use such grimaces when dissatisjicd ,it is likely that Briant spoke after some other of more authority. Are the more moved to say this because, the day before yesterday, they sent hither for the Admiral's trumpet and lodged him under the guard of the Deputy's men, and in the morning sent an English trumpet to take our letters. True it is that this morning they have acted more courteously, for, after speaking with him (the Admiral's trumpet) Norfolk has sent him to us. Of the principal point, the release of Boulogne, we have made no mention, for reasons contained in your Majesty's letters; nor also touching the instance made to you by the French ministers in order to fulfil the submission, for it will come in better hereafter, as the French ambassadors, if there is no hope of conclusion, will not fail to touch that point. The captain of Gravelinghes had advertised me, De Courrieres, of a secret request to him by a French captain at Ardres to allow 10,000 Frenchmen to pass that way, either coming or going, for an enterprise on this side, and that he had answered that he could not consent without your Majesty's command; and, after consulting together, I, De Courrieres, wrote to him if the request is renewed to persist in his first answer and take care to hinder the said passage; which we understood to be your Majesty's will, by your answer touching the five ensigns which were said to have passed by Bredenarde. Of this we advertised the Council, that they might be on their guard and might perceive the good faith used to them, who have since required us to again recommend the guarding of the passage and also of the bulwark near the river of St. Omer of which we heretofore wrote, adding that if the said captain had not enough men they would guard it themselves, if you would consent to their putting men there. We answered that the said places were well provided; and will write again to the said captain. Calais, 10 Oct. 1544.
Fr., pp. 6. Modern transcript of the original at Vienna, endd.: "receues a Bruxelles, le xije dud. Avril (sic)."
10 Oct. 404. Arras to the Admiral of France.
R.O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 229.]
This morning the dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk, the Privy Seal, bp. of Winchester and others of the King of England's Council came to tell us what word they had from their master touching the communications of peace, and after their insisting that the French ambassadors should pass into England and my repeating what you said at the camp upon that point, said that today they expected the earl of Arfort and Secretary Paget, with the commissions to treat; and I suppose that these will bring their master's instructions. I said that I would advertise you of this and asked for surety for the passage of your ambassadors. They answered that when the name and number of men brought are known it will be given. (fn. n16) Pray send it by this trumpet, whom they send expressly to carry this. Calais, 10 Oct. 1544.
Fr. Modern transcript of a copy at Vienna, p. 1.
10 Oct. 405. The Admiral of France to Arras.
R.O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 281.]
Received his letter by bearer and is troubled to have no news of Cardinal du Bellay, who cannot have fallen ill by the way, for he would have sent notice of it. Has sent a man to find him, who, not meeting him, will go as far as the Court. Heard again, yesterday, from Cardinal de Tournon, who writes that the Emperor makes good cheer. He is not of opinion that you and our ambassadors should pass the sea, for it will be quite possible to treat here with the King of England's Council; and I am of that opinion. I send you a servant of the Emperor's ambassador who was taken by our men some time ago with goods (hardes), which he has not yet been able to recover. I will be at pains to find them and send them to you with all diligence. I believe that our Queen will be able to go to visit the Emperor; and think that you may then have returned thither. Camp at Fyennes, 10 Oct.
Fr. Modern transcript of a copy at Vienna, p. 1.
10 Oct. 406. Arras to the Admiral of France.
R.O. I have this moment received your letters of today by bearer; and, for answer, refer to what I wrote this morning of communications with the King of England's ministers, and can only add that I am astonished that you have no news of the Cardinal de Belay. I suppose that the later he comes the better instructed he will be of the King's will, in order the better to set forward this work; for which I would desire that the earl of Arfort and Secretary Paget were already come, but, as there is news that they are on the way, I hope that they will arrive tonight.
Thanks for news of the Emperor's health and of the expected visit (la veue que vous esperez) of the Queen of France, which for the satisfaction of both, he would wish to be as soon as affairs permit. Hopes to be there, but would desire that this good work might first be well finished to the satisfaction of the parties. Thanks for sending back the ambassador's man; and for releasing the other and the rings (baghes) taken. Never doubted his (the Admiral's) honour therein. Calais, 10 Oct. 1544.
Fr. Modern transcript of a copy at Vienna, p. 1.
10 Oct. 407. The Admiral of France to Arras.
R.O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 230.]
Has just received his letter by bearer and is hourly awaiting news of Cardinal de Bellay, as he wrote this morning by his trumpet. Cannot certify the number of men, but believes that the Cardinal and President Raymond, who (as he is advised) are deputed by the King, coming with their ordinary trains, cannot be fewer than 80 or 100 horses. Agrees with him that time should not be lost, for things dragged out are never worth anything, and it would be an annoyance to Arras to be kept long away from his master. Begs him therefore to despatch safeconduct for the Cardinal and President and their suite to the number aforesaid. Camp at Fyennes, 10 Oct.
Fr. Modern transcript of a copy at Vienna, p. 1.
[10 Oct.] 408. Wallop to the Council.
R.O. The Dolphin yet remains at Fyennes and sends ordnance to overthrow the churches at Saintercase, Froyton and Neele, as they did yesterday Anderne and Camp churches. At the bulwark at Clayswoode they prevailed little. It is hard to judge what they mean. At present is great shooting out of Hampnes. Thinks that they should send 3,000 or 4,000 footmen to the Turnpike there to put the enemies in fear and be ready to relieve Guisnes. Sends two Italians who surrendered yesternight and can show the Dolphin's proceedings. Guisnes, this Friday. Signed.
Word is just brought that the Frenchmen have gotten [4] or 5 boats at Anderne "and be [in] the Whetfeld plache, whereupon I do [m]an out as many boats as I can make and [it] shall be good that all the great boats at St. [Pe]ters be manned, out likewise" and 400 or 500 men sent to lie at the Cowe House, lest they bring their boats at Arde and keep the "plache," and so stop the way from Callais hither and cut our victuals from us if they mind to lay siege to the castle. "The Dolphin's long tarrying here is not for no small purpose."
P. 1. Add.
10 Oct. 409. Carne to the Council.
R.O. This evening, received letters from Gryffithe ap Penrithe and John Broke, from Middelbroghe, showing that with much ado they trust to have 40 hoys and plattes ready by Monday next, but not at the former price. The shipmen also require sureties for "damages that they may sustain in serving now." The burgomasters require them to pay 30 sous a ton per month. They ask Carne to obtain discharge of the sureties and a general commission to them to take hoys and plates in Middlebroghe, Rosyndall and Dordrighe. Labours therein to the Regent here, and is promised answer tomorrow. Encloses another letter showing their difficulties. Bruxelles, 10 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: "To the dukes of Northfolke and Suthfolkes most noble graces and th'other lords of the King's Majesty's most honorable Council at Calais." Endd.: 1544.
10 Oct. 410. Charles V. to Arras, De Courrieres and Chapuys.
R.O. Three days ago the English ambassador here resident spoke of the points contained in a writing in his own hand which afterwards he delivered, as the Emperor, after answering them, requested. Because he did not seem to deliver it willingly the Emperor, without being asked, made Grantvelle return it. It seemed best to stop at the answer given, without any writing, so as not to enter contention with him when things stand as they do, especially between France and England, and rather to refer it to them to use as shall seem needful; and he sends them what was drawn for an answer by writing to the said ambassador. The said answer (and what Grantvelle said) was very moderate, not taking up the sharp words of the said writing, which the ambassador used (and especially touching the Emperor's withdrawal), but rather, with more appropriate words, to make him understand that the Emperor returned, after having passed so far to the heart of France as the ambassador knew, and having heard the King's answer upon the bp. of Arras's charge; and that, in returning, the road to Meaulx being pre-occupied by the French, and that of Compienne not to be taken because of the woods, it suited the Emperor to take that of Soissons while awaiting the King's answer; which answer purported that it was impossible for him to give assistance (and therefore he approved the Emperor's return), declaring his regret that he could not give it, as he would wish to do even if there was no treaty between them, because of his love and the Emperor's danger; albeit it was not for fear of the enemy (who never attempted anything, as the ambassador knows) but because the Emperor had led his army so far and already owed it about a month, and saw no means of being able to pay without the assistance required by Arras (seeing that the money was to be had from here, and there seemed no other way of bringing it and a probability thereby of disorder touching victuals), besides the [late] season and the bad weather, he determined his return; which, thank God, was made without loss even of artillery, although it was hard enough to draw owing to the bad roads. That, as to the treaty of peace, the Emperor made it with the King's express consent, given to Arras in presence of De Courrieres and Chapuys, which the King had again approved since and had shown satisfaction with the peace with reservation of their confederation, which has been amply made, as the King may see by the copy of the article. That, since the treaty of peace, the Emperor had, without regard to Landressies or any other thing tried to induce the King of France to the last conditions (moyens) upon which the King of England insisted; but he found them so high that he would not condescend thereto for any effort made to his ministers here or to himself by Arras, and therefore the Emperor had moved him earnestly to send back his ambassadors to the king of England. As to the counsel which the Emperor gave the King of England to withdraw his army from Montreul, it was such as he himself would have taken in like case, although the said ambassador made difficulty about it; and by what the King has done since the Emperor thinks that he approved it. That, as to the pressing the King of France, seeing that he has submitted himself to the Emperor, to condescend to the said means (moyens) and withdraw his army, the Emperor has always desired that they should appoint together, and has worked therefor, rather than use the said submission, which also needs the consent of both parties; and that the Emperor did not think that the King of France meant to comprise Boulogne therein, but only what concerned the fulfilment of past treaties between him and England. As to declaring against the King of France it must first be seen if the said appointment could be made, and the Emperor will have that between the King and him looked at and will not fail to do as he is thereby bound.
Writes at length as above, supposing that the ambassador will do so to his master and the lords of England who are at Calais. Sends another writing which the Cardinal of Tournon has here delivered, (fn. n17) showing how he also claims that the Emperor should declare hinself on his master's side; which is not to be mentioned unless it seem "qu'il vint a propoz pour induction a paciffication et nostre justifficcation."
(Continued in another hand.) Since the above was written, has received theirs of the 6th inst. and, until advertised of the King's answer to what his ministers wrote of Arras's coming and whether the French king has sent ambassadors, and their communications, the Emperor cannot write more. As to the language used by Arras to Norfolk, as contained in his letters to Grandvelle, his father, it was in conformity with the Emperor's intention; and also, as he may assure the said ministers, the Emperor never intended to refuse them victuals, but has here expressly forbidden them to the French, as the said ambassador has been again told. Bruxelles, 10 Oct. 1544.
Fr. Modern transcript of the original minute at Vienna, pp. 4.
R.O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 232.]
2. A declaration worded as to be made to the Emperor by Wotton of the charge given to him by the Council's letters of 3 Oct. (No. 346, except the last paragraph.)
Fr. Modern transcript from Vienna, pp. 4.
R.O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 233.]
3. The Emperor, having seen the writing delivered to him by the ambassador of the King of England, has ordered answer to be made to it as follows:—
He is sure that the King will recognize that he has done his utmost to follow the treaty between them and the capitulation passed when the viceroy of Sicily, Don Fernande de Gonzaga, was in England. The treaty of peace with France was made by the King's consent, with his excuse as to co-operation in the common enterprise: the King will remember his answer to Arras and other the Emperor's ambassadors, which both he and his Council have since tacitly and expressly approved; and that could not be contradicted by the ambassador's writing that the agreement to treat each for himself ought to be understood as with the proviso of common consent, for the Emperor's proposal to the King as to co-operation, and the position of his army and the answer made thereupon, did not admit of prolonged practice for the said common consent. Not that the Emperor feared the enemy, as has been already answered, but for other reasons which the ambassador could himself see and which have been represented to the King, the Emperor could not (especially with the King's answer and excuse) omit to treat as he did. Also that interpretation of the said answer is not compatible with the King's consent that each should treat for himself with reservation of the amity; and that each had before sent to the other his demands did not bind either, but the express consent afterwards given that each should treat for himself with the above reservation, and the Emperor having done so, honorably, by the article of reservation, the King ought to be well satisfied, as he has since shown himself to be. Neither for Landressies nor for any other respect has the Emperor omitted to work for the pacification of differences between the King and France (indeed for Landressies he had hostages), but rather has done his utmost and has obtained the sending of ambassadors by France: and he thinks that he has done something for the King therein, as also in what he said to the ambassador touching the withdrawal of the King's army from Montreul, although the ambassador strongly opposed it. He will not fail to observe the treaty with England in accordance with his express reservation of it in treating with France, as he has shown by leaving the horse and foot in the Count of Buren's charge as long as the King pleased, and continuing to furnish victuals and draught horses, and that notwithstanding the ill treatment of his subjects. As to pressing the King of France to accomplish the King of England's last demands, and in default declaring war against France, the Emperor will omit nothing that could be thought suitable for the appointment or for the observance of what he has treated. He trusts that the King will take this answer in good part and will consider that he has fully kept the amity between them.
Fr. Two modern transcripts from the original minute in Granvelle's hand at Vienna, pp. 4 and pp. 3.
10 Oct. 411. Wotton to Henry VIII.
R.O.
St. P., x. 109.
Received the Council's letters of the 3rd inst. on the 6th, and next day declared their effect to the Emperor, who answered that such important matters required deliberation, and he was not "well at ease" and had already been troubled with other matters, but he would summarily show his mind, as follows. He did not withdraw out of France for necessity or fear. Intending to go towards Paris by Compiegne, he learnt that it would be hard, with his great carriage, to pass that way or by Noyon, and so was driven to go by Soissons. Then the weather began to alter (so that if he had conveyed his great ordnance further into France he might not have been able to withdraw it) and he could neither have his own money nor the residue due from the Empire. In his peace with the French King he reserved his league with Henry, which he meant to observe, in proof whereof he had refused to revoke Mons. de Bure or to allow his subjects to victual the French, and nevertheless commanded them to victual Henry's army. His said subjects complained of ill treatment by Henry's men. He had also forbidden the French to come through his dominions to hurt Henry's subjects, and now when Henry's ambassador with the Queen required ships and victuals he straightway granted it. For the recovery of Landrecy he had not forborne Henry's cause, but had, since, both spoken to the French ambassadors in it and sent Arras to the French king. He indeed advised Henry to withdraw his army from Monstreul; for, even though no French army had approached, the season must shortly have forced it to withdraw. He had dissuaded the Frenchmen from attempting anything upon Boulogne (reasons given). The French made a very great matter of Boulogne and would not forego it; and the French king submitted to his arbitrament only the first controversies and not Boulogne. As to the chief point, of declaring himself enemy to the French king, he would look upon the treaty (intending to do as he was bounden thereby) and then give a further answer.
Three days after, being little amended, the Emperor caused Wotton to be sent for by Granvelle, who made the same answers; adding that, as to the principal request, his son of Arras was at Calais with the Emperor's ambassadors to communicate with Henry's Council there, and the Emperor despaired not of a good agreement. Reminded him that, on the day that the Emperor left Soissons, he and the Viceroy spoke of the danger that the Emperor's army was in, lacking victuals and money, and with a great army of Frenchmen within six miles of them. Granvelle said that was true, but yet they were never in fear of the Frenchmen, and made the peace for the causes which the Emperor declared; Arras was sent to require Henry to send part of his army forward into France, so that the Emperor might find means to get his money, and Henry had answered that he would gladly succour the Emperor, but now, besieging these two towns and the season being far past, he could not send succour and the Emperor might agree with the Frenchmen as best he could. "And these words, said Granvele, were repeated again by my son and th'Emperor's ambassadors lest they should mistake them," and the words of princes are of as much strength as any writing. (These last words Granvelle spoke faster and not so loud as the rest of his tale.) Replied that Granvelle knew what he (Wotton) had said last day to the Emperor; and, although they said that the King was comprised in the peace, he was still in war. Granvelle said that Henry had a copy of the article wherein he was comprised, and Wotton might get a copy from Secretary Joisse; and the Emperor had used all diligence to move the French king to agree reasonably. Answered that that diligence was still unknown when Henry's last letters were written, for the French king warred against him although he had revoked his army from Monstreul, and he had no word of ambassadors coming out of France, or of Arras's proceedings; as for the victuallers, Wotton believed that the Emperor had so done, but yet he heard from Calais that some of the Emperor's subjects did succour the Frenchmen, and the tales of ill handling were not to be lightly believed, for the giving credence to such tales often engendered unnecessary suspicion. As to the Frenchmen's making a great thing of Bouloyn, if Henry had persisted, by the treaty, in demanding the crown of France with the duchies of Guienne and Normandy the Emperor could never have made peace; and what Henry now demands could not seem great to the Emperor. Granvelle answered that it seemed great to the Frenchmen. Replied that they made very light that they withheld the crown of France, Gascoigne, Guyenne, Normandye, Poictou, Angiou, Mayne and Ponthieu, but now, when Henry was provoked to recover from them a little town, so dearly bought, they made it a great matter, and yet Bouloyn served them to no purpose but to injure us, whereas it lay necessarily for our ships in the narrow seas, who could often save themselves there when they could not get to Calais. Granvelle said that the Emperor had not asked why they made so much of it, but surely they did esteem it much; Henry would now by Arras perceive somewhat of the French king's mind, and the Emperor did not despair of an agreement; if the French refused to agree to reason the Emperor would declare what he would do, which should be all that the treaty bound him to. Other direct answer Wotton could not obtain. Albeit Granvelle had before said that one of the Emperor's ambassadors should follow Henry into England; he now answered that both were yet at Calais, to see whether they could do any good, and the Emperor was preparing to send another in their place. Bruxelles, 10 Oct. 1544.
Hol., pp. 8. Add. Endd.
R.O. 2. Copy (fn. n18) of the above in Wotton's hand. Pp. 7. Headed: Copye of the last letter sent to the Kinges Majesty.
10 Oct. 412. Griffith Appenryth and John Broke to the Council.
R.O. Received commissions to take up hoys from the King's ambassador on Wednesday, before which time they could obtain none; and thereupon the bailey and burghers called the mariners and showed the Emperor's pleasure. The mariners complained that they had received their wages in groats and angels 6d. st. above the value, that some were paid too short, because after 16 July they returned out of England empty, and because one Rolf at Sandwich took up ten of them at the rate of hire in Zealand and paid them 3l. or 4l. short; "and chiefly they found them grieved, and said that some of them had their heads broken, stricken to the ground, thrust through the arm, and the hangman had aboard, threatening to nail their ears to the masts because they would not out of the haven at unseasonable weather (as they said), and that for fear of the captain of Ruysbanck and us they leapt out of their ships into the water, and so were carried to Ruysbanck as prisoners, with much such matter." Are constrained to assure them against loss; and Griffith Appenrith remains in hostage till the Lady Regent have this surety. Have advertised the King's ambassador of this. They cannot be ready before 12 Oct. because some lack tackle and their mariners are "northward in herring fare." Have hired at Flussing, Middelborowe, Armue and other towns hereabout 50 hoys, and make diligence for the rest. Middelborowe, 10 Oct. Sinned.
In Broke's hand, pp. 2. Add.: To, &c., King's Privy Council of England. Endd.: 1544.

Footnotes

  • n1. Oct. 3rd.
  • n2. Oct. 4.
  • n3. Oct. 4.
  • n4. "Mais en ce cas faillent les deux fondemens principaulx pour bien exploicter, dont lung est Occasion, mere de toutes fructueuses actions, l'autre la cause materielle bien disposte."
  • n5. 30 September.
  • n6. See No. 235(4).
  • n7. Apparently the Sieur de Vervins is meant.
  • n8. "Et neantmoins doibt il demeurer quicte desdits pensions et arrayrages et aultres choses quil peult pretendre au royaulme de France."
  • n9. See No. 366.
  • n10. The Dean of Chicheaster.
  • n11. No. 235(4).
  • n12. Dated 1 July 1543. See Vol. XVIII. No. 981(1).
  • n13. Matthew Colthurst, See No. 423.
  • n14. Apparently "mestre," for "Maitre" was the reading intended See Captain Maicre or Maidre mentioned in Vol. XVIII. Part ii, Nos. 130, 134,
  • n15. See Nos, 235(4), 374, 392.
  • n16. The transcript here differs from words quoted in the Spanish Calendar, and reads:— "et je suppose que venans ceulx la ilz seront instruiz de la voulenté dudit roy leur maistre; dont je leur ay dit vous avertiroye, afin que vous regardez, Monsr., a ce que convient pour le passaige de vosdits ambassadeurs, pour lequel passaige j'ay demande seurté, et ilz mont respondu que, saichans et le nom et le nombre de gens quilz menent, y ny aura faulte."
  • n17. No.382.
  • n18. Enclosed in No. 449.