Henry VIII: June 1545, 16-20

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 20 Part 1, January-July 1545. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1905.

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'Henry VIII: June 1545, 16-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 20 Part 1, January-July 1545, (London, 1905) pp. 466-484. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol20/no1/pp466-484 [accessed 19 March 2024]

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June 1545, 16-20

16 June. 957. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A P.C., 193.
Meeting at Greenwich, 16 June. Present: Chancellor, Suffolk, Privy Seal, Winchester, Browne, Wingfield, Paget. Business:—Letter to my lord Deputy of Calais to transport the Italians of Guisnes to Dover if lord Graye think good to send them away. Letter to my lord of Norfolk to use the brass pieces of the bulwarks and blockhouses within his commission because, having so many ships and other places to furnish, the King could spare none. Warrants to Tuke to deliver 11l. 12s. 9d. to Sir Ant. Knevett, for so much disbursed to James Casseres, committed to his custody, and 10l. to Mr. Pagnam sent to Calais and Guisnes. Letter to my lord of Canterbury, in default of commissioners appointed to sit with him in the Commission of Anticipation, to appoint other meet men. Letter to my lord Graye and Mr. Walloppe to ransom no Frenchmen for their quarterage except footmen, Walloppe to deliver to Graye the men of arms lately taken.
16 June. 958. Paget to Petre.
R. O.
St. P., x. 466.
Mr. Peter (with hearty commendations, and the like to my lord of Westminster), we have received your sundry letters, the last enclosing the written answers of both sides; and the King likes your proceedings and notes a wilfulness on the other part. The matter of Burgus "shalbe ended when the eyes in Chapuys' hands shall be put out," whom I never took for a wise man, but for one that would "speak cum summa licentia whatsoever came in buckam" without respect of truth. Indeed he is a great practiser, by which term we cover lying, dissembling and flattering; and apparently he bleared your eyes lately with a pretence that the Emperor wrote to him to devise upon conditions of peace and gave like charge to the ambassador here, who says as much therein as we think Chapuys has since said to you. And yet, to prove him, it were well to say that the King takes your advertisement of the Emperor's friendly remembrance thankfully, and trusts to find friendship in the Emperor whether war or peace continue, that he has never refused to hearken to an honorable peace, but if war continue the enemy shall find his hands full, and you think that if the ambassador speak of peace (but you hear from one to whom you wrote of that matter that no such thing is moved) he will find reasonable men here. This matter must be handled "sleytly" and, as you have learned to scold, so you must, if you will deal with him, learn to lie. Some Spaniards have indeed complained of wrongs sustained of Wyndame and others, and, as usual, would have us determine the matter, as though we had nothing else to do. When we remit them to justice they say that they have nothing to do with the Admiralty and will complain to the Emperor, "and th'ambassador hath said he must write so to th'Emperour." We answer that we know the Emperor will weigh other princes' matters by his own and would not that Mons. Grandvele, Mons. Darras, Mons. Naves, or others who have care of his matters of state, should, in such a time of trouble, attend to the decision of private suits. You may repeat this answer there. All our merchants who haunt Spain require letters of reprisal upon all Spaniards, like as the Prince of Spain has granted against them for one fact done by one man. We have, however, only desired that our merchants and goods might be released, wherein the ambassador here promised to write, seven weeks ago, and Chapuys was moved therein by me the day of his leave taking. We would know what they would do in like case. The King thinks that Jasper Douche should first make a reasonable demand, and all the Council think that he might have 8l. a last for the whole of his herrings. We see not why we need any safeconduct for going into France when we have sent the authentic depositions of honest persons. Let them go into France if they list, but before God, I wrote you the truth in my last letter, whatsoever they may canvas with the Frenchmen, "their friends, our foes for their sake." Pray see the letters herewith conveyed to Mr. Vaughan at Andwerpe with diligence.
My lord Chancellor and I have both spoken with Mr. North in your matter, which he promises to "salve" well enough. We have prepared three great armies on this side Trente for the enemy's landing, my lord of Norfolk being lieutenant on Essex side, my lord of Suffolk on Kent side and my lord Privy Seal westward, besides my lord of Hertford in the North. In every army are 30,000 men at least. My lord of Suffolk may fortune to pass the seas with 25,000 Englishmen and 3,000 light horses, besides some horses out of Almayn; "and though the French shall have more horsemen (fn. n1) yet we trust to march with our old policies of England, and some new, against the French horsemen; and also we trust to pass over maugre our enemies upon the sea, and to transport without Flemish hoys. And this brag you may, as it were soberly, throw out to the Commissioners, mary! you may make the number greater if you list." My lord Admiral is on the sea with 12,000 men, not to fight but with advantage, and shortly shall have a "renforce" of 4,000 fresh men. Commendations from my wife to you and my lord of Westminster; and mine to Mr. Kerne and my lady and to Mr. Chamberleyn. Grenewich, 16 June 1545.
"The King goeth to Portchmowthe."
Hol., pp. 4. Faded. Fly leaf with address lost.
16 June. 959. Wotton to Paget.
R. O. To-day received Paget's letters of the 10th. The "strange news bruited there" are vain, as will have been seen by Wotton's letters of the 11th. The Emperor rides almost daily a hunting. The duke of Lorayne died three or four days ago.
The secretary, Joisse Bave, has just come with a complaint that a Spaniard, bearer of this letter, came hither to declare that certain ships of Spaniards and Flemings (as appears by a bill enclosed), richly laden, to the value of 6,000 ducats, are taken in England; and although the goods evidently belong to the Emperor's subjects, and may be lawfully carried, and the merchants offer ample caution in England in case it be found otherwise, they are stayed there and the men threatened to be racked, to avoid which they would grant the goods to be the Turk's. The Prince and Council of Spain have written that unless such doings are reformed they will arm and shift for themselves notwithstanding any commandment to the contrary. The Emperor, desiring that the amity might continue, required Wotton to advertise the King of it and labour that these things might be speedily redressed. This was the effect of his errand, which he set forth vehemently, saying that Wotton might well consider that this was no good way to entertain the amity. (fn. n2) Wotton answered only that it seemed strange, and reason would that they should not give full credence to such complaints until they heard the answer; he would advertise the King, and if anything were amiss it would doubtless be amended. Thinks that bearer will make speed, and has therefore delivered him this letter. It were well to avoid such occasions of inconvenience. Would like the ambassador, if he speak of it (as doubtless he will) to perceive that Wotton has written therein.
The Count Palatyn Frederike is yet here, and sends a letter (herewith) to the King, to which he earnestly solicits εnswer. Hears that 40 hulks of the Emperor's subjects have conducted about 200 French ships laden with victuals into Normandy, and that the French king has thanked the Emperor for it. Since the departure of Cardinal Farnese matters are not pressed so much as before, "which is suspected to be done for some purpose." Is told that "a great man of France" is coming hitherwards. Asked Joisse if we should depart hence shortly, and he said there was no likelihood of it. Has written twice since Nicholas the courier left, and could not write oftener unless by special post; for, now that the Queen Regent lies far out of the way, there is only the ordinary "staffette" who goes once a week to Andwerpe, and "is almost as long in the way as one that should ride in journeys." Thanks for news. It is thought that the truce with the Turk will take effect. Wormes, 16 June 1545. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.
R. O. 2. [Bill enclosed in the above.]
The ships taken are a Flemish hulk and a Catalan ship laden in Havra de Grace, port of Roan, with goods belonging, those in the Catalan ship, to Francesco and Andres de Maia y Compa (Malvenda and Co.) and. those in the hulk, to Gomez and Juan de Quintanaduenas, all residents of Burgos. They were taken at sea and brought to Falmouth (Falamma) in England.
Spanish. Small paper, p. 1.
17 June. 960. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A.P.C., 194.
Meeting at Greenwich, 17 June. Present: Chancellor, Suffolk, Privy Seal, Winchester, Browne, Wingfield, Paget. Business:—Letter to my lord Poyninges to send over Laurence Forster, who had broken prison at Rye and fled to Bullen. Letter to the wardens of the Surgeons at London to appoint a surgeon to repair to sea with Sir Charles Hawarde. Letter to my lord President of the Marches of Wales declaring the order taken in case of invasion and also for beacons, enclosing the order and letters to be by him directed to gentlemen meet to have the ordering of the beacons; he to send a note hereof to my lord Privy Seal at Exeter. Warrant to the master of the Ordnance to deliver one last of serpentyne powder to Ph. Bonde, master gunner of Sandefote castle, for that castle and Portlande castle. Letter to Mr. Rous that the King takes well his travail about the provision of victual, and his price of cheese at 13s. 4d. and butter at 20s. Warrant to Sir John Williams to deliver 800l. to George Mylles for fortifications at Guisnes. Warrant to Mr. Cofferer to deliver 500l. to Mr. Godsalve for coats and conduct of 2,000 men appointed to the sea, and 1,700l. to Thos. Wynter for sea matters. Letter to my lord Admiral to permit one——(blank), Portuguese, to pass unmolested. Petre van Helden of the Stilliard, refusing to perform the Council's order touching the price of bows, appeared with others of the Stilliard; and, as he complained that the bowyers came in numbers, as if to take his wares by force, it was ordered that four bowyers only should resort to the Stilliard and receive the wares, paying ready money, two of the Stilliard being present to prevent misorder.
17 June. 961. Sir Edward Wotton, Treasurer, and Edmund Peyton, Customer, of Calais, to the Chief Baron of the Exchequer.
R. O. Where Philip Crayer, of Calais, mariner, dec., entered in bond of 100 marks dated 16 April, 20 Hen. VIII, to convey 4 "wey" of cheese hither from London, now the bearer, Robert Johnson, soldier of the retinue here, is compelled by due process out of the Exchequer to answer to the bond. We find by the customers' books that Crayer truly delivered the cheese here and yielded the custom thereon, and therefore beg favour for bearer.
Caleis, 17 June 1545. signed.
P. 1. Add.
17 June. 962. Thomas lord Poynings to Henry VIII.
R. O. Being informed that the Frenchmen intended, after revictualling Arde, to encamp about Davourn, sent Sir Ralph Ellerkar thither yesternight with all the horsemen, and Sir Hugh Poulet with 800 or 900 footmen, to destroy the town. They found there much wine and victual and 30 or 40 new houses well tiled, with bakehouses, brewhouses and a fair new mill, all which they burnt and destroyed. The inhabitants had "fled into the pyle and woods, and so saved themselves." Boulloigne, 17 June 1545. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
17 June. 963. Vaughan to Paget.
R. O. Spent all yesterday with Peter Vanden Wale viewing the Fowker's jewels in the company of Jasper Dowche, but Peter desires to have three or four days and the assistance of another jeweller. If their estimate draw anything nigh the Fowker's demand the matter will be soon ended. Peter has just come to say that the other jeweller will be in town tonight, and tomorrow they will note everything and report to the King in writing. As soon as they have taken their view Vaughan will send a copy of the draft bond. Peter Wale says the dagger is worth 6,000 cr., the Fowker holds it at 8,000 cr., but Vaughan hopes "to do well enough with him in the end." No news save that many men are gathered in Estlande. Some think that they are to place again the Duke of Brunswicke. "They have brought the king of Denmark and all the countries thereabouts in armour." Andwerp, 17 June.
P.S.—The Queen owes me much money. Your word to Mr. Carrew, treasurer of First Fruits and Tenths and her receiver, would help me to be paid.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1545.
June. 964. Vaughan to Paget.
R. O. Bearer, the base son of the late duke of Gelders, this day arrived at Andwerp, desires to repair into England to know the King's pleasure for the conveying over of a troop of men whom he has together about Munster. He seems "a very gentle gentleman" and of a good heart to serve the King. Tomorrow Peter Vanden Wale will finish viewing the Fowker's jewels, and I will then send to the King the view and price and draft of bonds. "By that time the French king shall hear tell of the coming of the Bastard's men I think he will wax cold."
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.:——(blank) Junii 1545.
17 June. 965. Bucler and Mont to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P. x. 469.
Continually solicit the Protestants' ambassadors for answer of their masters. They promise it as soon as it comes. All things in this Diet remain as before. The duke of Loraine is dead. Yesterday the Emperor rode forth hunting and returns tonight or tomorrow. He uses such pastime, and seems "very quiet and merry at all times." Many fear him, but he fears none here as long as the Turk is absent and the French king and he are friends. It is said that Cardinal Phernesius returns hither and that, therefore, all things are kept in suspense. The Palsgrave remains here. The Emperor's removing is uncertain. Wormbs, 17 June. Signed.
P. 1. Partly in cipher. Add. Endd.: 1545.
17 June. 966. Bucler to Paget.
R. O. This day we received your kind letters. We make all diligence "to have responsion of the ambassadors of the Protestants." I desire to be commended to m[y la]die Pagett. To the rest of your letters Mr. Mount ma[keth] answer. F[rom Worm]bs, 17 June.
The duke of Loraine is dead. Signed.
P. 1. Slightly mutilated. Add. Endd.
17 June. 967. Mont to Paget.
R. O. Since this Diet offers nothing new, having stuck at one knot for some months, he will write what the ambassador (proconsul) of Cologne has today told him. The clergy of Colougne accused the Senate there to the Emperor of lax proceeding against Lutherans, and the Senate asserted that they were innocent of the charge as regards citizens subject to them, that they left the deeds of the clergy to be judged by their ordinaries. The Emperor thereupon urged the chief of the clergy if they knew any one of that way to punish him. Thus animated, the canons of Cologne cathedral have suspended the Count of Stolberg, their dean, and the counts of Oldenburg, the Rhine (comitem Rhenanum) and Schaumburg, canons, from their prebends (a fructuum perceptione). The Emperor has peremptorily summoned hither Matthias Hiltus, who, before this Naves, was vice-chancellor of the Empire, and now lives at Cologne, the Emperor being informed that he has some thousands of crowns formerly collected from the Catholics, of whose league Hiltus was the author. Knows not whether he will capture this prey, for the German messenger who was sent returned without Hiltus. Bernhardus a Mela, who now, in name of the Saxon and Hessian, administers the duchy of the expelled duke of Brunswick, lately wrote to Mont of his readiness to serve the King. The man is of great estimation in Saxony, and, although he cannot now easily leave his province, he can well indicate expert leaders and assemble good soldiers; and in those places from which soldiers may be most easily transported into England he is in no common esteem. The examination of the Brunswick case is anew appointed here by the Emperor, and many think that the Duchy will be in the meantime entrusted to arbitrators (ad sequestrorum fidem deponendum), who must however be agreed upon. The Bp. of Liege's commissioner here does not mingle with the rest and some infer therefrom that the bpric. of Liege is to be turned over to the House of Burgundy, just as Utrecht has been detached from the Empire. Hans Sickingius who last year accepted 10,000 cr. to bring horsemen to the King is now free from the Emperor's service, as the Emperor has not renewed contract with him but keeps him in suspense. One who is very intimate with him tells Mont that he is grieved at this and would not be averse to serve the King if required. Commendations to the Chancellor of England. Wormes, 17 June 1545.
Lat., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
17 June. 968. Venice.
Venetian
Calendar
(Brown),
v., No. 340.
Resolve by the Council of Ten to show the armoury of the Council and the jewels of the Sanctuary to the son of lord Cobham, governor of Calais, and 15 English gentlemen his companions, and the Spanish doctor of laws who is here on his way to the Council of Trent.
18 June. 969. Henry Bradshaw.
Attorney General. See Grants in June, No. 41.
18 June. 970. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A.P.C., 196.
Meeting at Greenwich, 18 June. Present: Chancellor, Suffolk, Essex, Winchester, Browne, Wingfield, Paget. Business:—Warrants to the Master of the Ordnance for delivery of 3,000 Ibs. of old saltpetre to Mr. Bowes and Mr. Knight, vice-treasurers of the Tower; to Williams to deliver 2,000l. to lord St. John for victuals; to Wymond Carewe to deliver 500l. to Ant. Auchar, "for the making and appareilling of certain ships"; to Tuke to deliver 40 marks reward to Wm. Knight, for his pains in providing victuals. Letter to lord Poyninges to assist Mr. Horne and Mr. Auchar, sent to take musters of the soldiers and labourers at Bullen. One Crowche who, in a controversy with my lord Privy Seal, although convinced by the testimony of lord St. John and Sir Ric. Sowthwell, remained obstinate and was committed to the Flete, where he had long remained, this day acknowledged his folly and lack of title, and was released. Captain Lyghtmaker commanded to bring next morning one of his soldiers who had committed a murder in Iselington. This day Mr. Pakkenham returned from Callais and Guisnes declaring them sufficiently furnished except with vinegar and ale; whereupon letters were written to Mr. Rous to "convert certain provisions northward which were appointed for Callais."
18 June. 971. Van der Delft to Charles V.
Spanish
Calendar,
VIII., No. 67.
Since writing the earlier letter herewith, has learnt that a secretary of the Queen of England, named Richard Butler, (fn. n3) is in Germany, having gone, a month or six weeks before the Emperor left Brussels, secretly to solicit the German princes to form a league with this King. Bearer goes to complain of seizure of his merchandise. Like others, he is referred to the Admiralty. Here is news that 24 or 25 French galleys and 40 great warships have reached Brittany. Here ships are constantly sent to the Admiral who will have 20,000 men. Suffolk and Norfolk depart to-day, but I know not whither. By means of beacons the English say that they can anywhere muster 25,000 or 30,000 men in two hours, and they are confident in their strength and delighted to see their enemy near. London, 18 June 1545. Endd. as received at Worms, 25 June.
18 June. 972. Van der Delft to Mary of Hungary.
Spanish
Calendar,
VIII., No. 68.
Encloses copy of what he writes to the Emperor. Is informed from two quarters that this King is warning his subjects abroad to secure their property, and forbidding those at home to export merchandise. Has not ventured to write this to the Emperor until he can verify it; but thinks that she may perhaps discover the truth in Antwerp or elsewhere. London, 18 June 1545.
18 June. 973. Van der Delft to the Burgomaster and Corporation of Bruges.
Spanish
Calendar.
VIII.. No 69.
Received their letters of the 9th and gave bearer what help he could; but Secretary Paget, the King's chief adviser, simply shrugged his shoulders and handed back the documents. Expected this, for such matters here depend on the King's special grace and must proceed from him; so that the only way is to gain friends about him. Cannot do more than he has done without fuller instructions from the Queen. London, 18 June 1545.
18 June. 974. Prince Edward to Cranmer.
Foxe, VI. 350.
Cranmer's
Works, 413.
Nichols' Lit.
Rem. of Edw
VI., 1.
Because you are far from me I would gladly hear that you are well. I pray that you may live long and promote the Word of God. Ampthill, 18 June.
Lat. Begins: Impertio te plurima salute, colendissime praesul et carissime susceptor.
975. Prince Edward to Queen Katharine Parr.
Nero C. x. 4.
B. M.
Ellis 1st S.,
II.131. Nichols' Lit.
Rem. of
Edw. VI., 13.
Thanks for gentle acceptance of his rude letters; and for her loving and tender letters encouraging him to go forward in things "wherein your Grace beareth me on hand that I am already entered." Trusts to satisfy the expectation of the King his father and of her Grace.
Hol., p. 1. Begins: Most honorable and entirely beloved mother.
*** The above is also printed by Halliwell, Royal Letters, II., 4, by Strickland, Life of Katharine Parr, and by Netherclift, One Hundred Letters (Facsimile).
18 June. 976. Hertford, Tunstall and Sadler to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., v. 460.
Send letters from Wharton and Maxwell to Hertford, with others to Maxwell from Anguisshe and Robert Maxwell. To Maxwell Hertford has replied as in the copy herewith. Look daily to hear of Thomas Forster's proceedings, whom, as commanded, they sent into Scotland to Cassells, Anguisshe and Sir George Dowglas "as they desired." Yesterday John Horselaye, prisoner in Scotland, arrived here upon bond to re-enter, saying that, before he left, Forster had sundry conferences with George Dowglas, who had sent for many of the lords of Scotland. Dernton, 18 June 1545. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
977. Hertford to Lord Maxwell.
R. O.
St. P., v. 460.
I perceive in the first part of your letter your son's proceedings with you and what letters you have received from him and the earl of Anguishe, and in the second part your desire for licence to enter Scotland for a month. As to the first, methinks your son forgets his duty when he refuses to accomplish your desire in so small a matter as to come to you upon safeconduct. As to the second, my advice is that you suspend that suit; for, as your proceedings when in Scotland were suspected, so, if you make suit to enter before some better fruit of your service may appear it might bring you into further mistrust. Being so well minded to serve the King as you have promised, you may move your friends, as well by letters as by speaking, and, being in Carlisle, you shall have convenient liberty to speak with such as come to you upon safeconduct, or else write to them with the advice of my lord Wharton. Knowing that the King desires nothing but the peace and marriage, and is content to remit all things bypast, you will do well to write thereof to my lord of Anguishe, Sir George Dowglas and others whom you take to be the King's friends in Scotland, and also to tell it to such as repair to you in Carlisle.
Copy, pp. 2. Endd.: Copie of my l. of Hertf. l're to the l. Maxwell.
18 June. 978. Hertford to Paget.
R. O. That he may know how long the 10,000l. lately sent hither will last, signifies that this month's charge in wages of Englishmen and strangers, fortifications and other affairs, will be about 7,000l., leaving but 3,0001. towards next month. Next pay day for the garrison will be for Englishmen 29 June, and for strangers 1 July; and unless money is sent they must remain unpaid. Prays him to put to his hand that there may be a staple of money remaining here. Darneton, 18 June. Signed.
P.S.—At the despatch of this arrived the enclosed certificate from Newcastell of the whole provision of grain there; also other letters (herewith) from lord Wharton to be declared to the King. Prays him to remember the return of Mr. Markham.
P. 1. Letter in Sadler's hand, P.S. in that of Hertford's clerk. Add. Endd,: 1545.
18 June. 979. John Aster to John Johnson.
R. O. Gentle cousin, where you wrote to me for the obtaining of certain money, I have enquired but cannot hear of the party. Pray send me word under whom and in which of the King's pieces here he serves. Bulloignye, 18 June 1545.
18 June. 980. Thirlby and Others to Henry VIII.
R. O. Since we wrote on the 14th, sending the answers to complaints on both sides, the Emperor's commissioners have delivered a short declaration (herewith) dividing Jasper Duche's cause from the other matters, desiring your favour to him as he has given himself "even at this present" to serve you. We answered that we knew before leaving England your good acceptation of his service, and that you were well affected towards him if he had begun more reasonably and divided his cause from the rest. In the matter of Burgos they expect within fifteen days to know all that has been done in France, and think that if the goods of your subjects were indeed given to those Spaniards it were no reason to demand it again; otherwise, though the said Spaniards were naturalised in France, they were only factors and the goods belonged to these Burgaleses. Touching the jewels they were sorry to hear our final answer, that the matter was ended in England by the laws, which they would signify to the Emperor. And here Chapuys repeated how often he had moved you of it, what answer the Barons of the Exchequer and other lawyers made him therein, how he was finally remitted hither, "and now here nothing was done in the matter." We answered that your sending the judges and others to satisfy him was a demonstration of your clemency, and only done in respect of the Emperor's letters, for that he was not satisfied was not reason enough to revoke a judgment; you did not attempt the like for any sentence given against your subjects, although many of them complained of judgments given "manifestly against all equity and reason," and the Emperor, knowing that the matter was ended by law, would doubtless be satisfied. They said that they would be loth to advertise this answer to the Emperor; seeing that the whole commodity of this matter came to your own use, they trusted that you would respect both the Emperor's letters and the poor children who were like to go a begging. We answered that the Emperor wrote to have justice ministered, which was done; as for the children you might extend your alms to them, but we had no commission therein; if they would sue that way we would signify their suit to you. They said that they would not relinquish the justice of their suit; and so broke off. Expect the matter to be renewed shortly.
Yesterday they exhibited a bill (fn. n4) to us, in the names of procurers of the Emperor and the Duke of Arskot, touching the "proprietie" of a certain river and its bank which they pretend that your subjects have encroached upon by pulling down a bridge and turning the river's course for the defence of Bowtes bulwerke. They also delivered a plat (herewith) of the frontiers there. We answered that we had no knowledge of the frontiers, and this matter seemed not to be within our commission, but we would consider the bill and make them an answer. Where in our former answers we said that Alexander Anthinori and John Carlo were Florentines and ought to sue in England, for we had no commission to hear them, they said that, if such an answer had been made before, the arrest had not been discharged. We replied that we thought the matter of these Florentines for a few pieces of silk could not have moved the Emperor to continue an arrest manifestly against all treaties and reason.
Chancellor Nigri said that certain of the Emperor's subjects who served in your wars against France often resorted to their houses and went from thence into France spoiling and robbing, which could not be tolerated now that there was peace between the Emperor and France, and therefore order had been taken against it. We only answered that their ordinance seemed strange, seeing that by the treaty you might be served with their men; but it seemed that their objection was only to the men going like thieves privily into France.
This morning, when we were in consultation with the Emperor's commissioners, Mons. de Rieux visited us, saying that he was glad to hear of your good health and ready to do you service. Burborough, 18 June 1545. Signed: Tho' Westm': Will'm Petre: Edward Carne: T. Chambrelain.
Pp. 6. Add. Endd.
Galba B.
x., 221.
B.M.
2. Contemporary copy of the above, undated.
Pp. 4
Lansd. MS.
171, f. 65b.
B. M.
3. Faulty later copy of § 2.
Pp. 4
18 June. 981. Thirlby and Others to Paget.
R. O. Our letters to the King show how we proceed in these froward matters. Jasper Duche's account is all of the prices of the herrings, expenses and interest. Would know how much to allow him and how to proceed therein. For the matter of Burgos "they" have sent into France, where it will not be hard for them to frame such proofs as they will. In the matters of the jewels and of Alex. Anthinori and Jo. Carlo they said curtly that they would signify our answer to the Emperor, as if to "fear us." Sometimes we fall to plain scolding and yet part with good words. Among complaints exhibited by our merchants is a process and other complaints showing that they are empeached in Spain by the inquisitors, and repelled from the Courts there as excommunicate and heretics, in which the King is also named. We forbear to propone these till we know the King's pleasure; and we send you copy of a piece of a process translated into English. In two complaints, one against Windham for injuries done upon the sea, and the other against Sir Nic. Pointz for loss of a ship coming out of Scotland "with his wools" (plaintiff saying that he was compelled by the Englishmen in the ship to go to sea before the residue of the navy, and so was taken) it is desired that Poinctz and Wyndham and their men may be examined.
This morning Monsr. de Rieux came to visit us in the town house, where we sit daily in our conferences; who departed suddenly at our first coming hither and returned yesternight. He has a house near this town. This day the Emperor's commissioners broke from us before their accustomed hour and are in consultation with Mons. de Rieux, to whom a post came yesternight from the Emperor. We cannot fish out anything worthy of advertisement.
Chapuys has just sent certain written considerations touching the Burgos matter. They have talked at large of "this sentence;" and we have mentioned only that the licence to bring in the jewels was not sealed with the Great Seal, and the jewels were shown to others before the King, contrary to the licence. If this were proved it would best stay them; as to the seal, they say that the poor man might think the bill signed with the King's hand sufficient, as the customers allowed it "and others have passed before after like sort, as he showed us one other, passed indeed only by the Signet." He said it could not be proved that they were offered for sale before being shown to the King. "Still they be in hand that the man was dead; and if we should enter further into particular causes we should but multiply more controversy." Burborough, 18 June 1545. Signed: Tho' Westm': Will'm Petre: Edward Carne: T. Chambrelain.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.
18 June. 982. Peire to Paget.
R. O. Since the writing of our common letters, I have received your letters signifying partly the King's pleasure touching Jasper Duche, wherein nevertheless we will conclude nothing till we hear from you again. I wrote to Mr. Vaughan to know whether Jasper Duche ever expressed contentment to divide his claim from the others; and I have answer that Vaughan remembers no such thing, and that if Duche serves the King "in this one matter" he might well be allowed a reasonable price for all his herrings. As they say that Alex. Antinory and Jo. Carlo were the Emperor's subjects, we mean to say that they were thus good prizes to the Frenchmen, and so to the King when taken from the French again. If we should without shame affirm everything as they do we had need to go to a new school. One of them especially thinks all well spoken "that he babbleth." "We are matched with two old foxes, Chapuis and Nigri, and yet with reason (as God help me) I think we have answered them in every matter at full; mary, in words they overcome us; and yet we begin to learn to talk prettily, and shall learn daily more, for we have a good school, and none ill schoolmasters for that purpose." I sent your letters by special post to Mr. Vaughan. We have spoken nothing of the letters of reprisal of Spain until we have it translated. My lord of Westminster and I will commune again with Chapuis according to your instruction. Certain Spaniards who came hither from England went hence directly to the Emperor, "I think, rather encouraged here than otherwise," for we have once or twice told how our men are deferred from justice, especially in Spain, and yet a Spaniard in England will not abide the examination of one process by law, and looks to be heard of the Privy Council "without consideration of time." Thanks for your remembrance of my matter to Mr. Chancellor of the Augmentations. If it be not "hopen" (qu. holpen?) it will be a loss and shame to me; but he writes that he trusts to "ease the matter." Pray commend me to my lord Chancellor, also to my lady your wife. My lord of Westminster desires to be commended to you and my lady, "saying he would not gladly be sick before his return home, because he shall want the good keeping which my lady hath promised." Burbarough, 18 June.
Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.: 1545.
18 June. 983. Thirlby and Petee to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., x. 469.
This day after dinner Chapuys visited them in their lodging, and, speaking of the French brags, said that yesterday Mons. de Rieux told him that the French had no such numbers ready as was reported, the Parisians, who were named to be 6,000 or 8,000, being but 1,500. He talked of the "light attemptates" of the French, both in wars against the Emperor and last winter at Bulloyn and Guisnes, and the folly of bringing galleys from Marcelles, which could not endure these seas past the midst of August and whose slaves and rowers, being Moors, Sicilians and Spaniards, would die this winter if kept in prison, or else steal away if left at liberty. Answered that, although it was almost two months since they left England, they had heard of such preparations that before the end of summer the French would be talking less of the invasion of England than of the defence of their own country. Chapuys thought that it would be impossible for the French king to invade England. He then began to wish that matters in this Diet were compounded and all hindrances to the amity removed, saying that three things he would be glad of, viz., 1, to be out of this ill air; 2, to be eased of the diet; and 3, to see all things thoroughly quieted. He had this day letters from Grandvela, who wrote merrily that he must still be ambassador till matters touching England were finished; and though he had spoken quickly in the matters of Burgos and the jewels it was because he knew the justice of them and must speak, but he would wish that nothing should come out of our house of consultation but pleasant, and the residue to begin and die there (meaning that we should not write it into England); your Majesty was once offended with him and gave him such words as "none ambassador had these hundred years," but at his coming thence you used him most benignly and he had received great benefits at your hands; and he reminded us of the letters he lately received from the Emperor touching the devising of some mean for a peace or truce. Replied that they knew the King's good opinion of him, and (because he touched again the discourse of which they wrote on the 11th inst.), they took occasion to say that they had written privately to a friend in the Council to let them know if the ambassador there made any overtures thereof, and, hearing nothing, they gathered that the ambassador had not done so. He seemed surprised, saying that the Emperor wrote that he would write to the ambassador for that purpose; perhaps the letters were delayed by being forwarded by the Regent; one thing had just come into his head which was that if the French or Scots invade England and the King asks for aid (which he has not asked, although he willed both Chapuys and his fellow to admonish the Emperor thereof) he would wish it given quickly, beneficium bis dat qui cito dat, but, if the French king asked the Emperor why he gave such aid, what might the Emperor answer? Replied that the answer was that the former covenant, made with Henry, could not be taken away by any other treaty. He said that the reservation of the treaty in the agreement with France was conditional upon the King's assent thereto, which was refused. Answered that in that case this later agreement seemed to be but conditional; and the "former treaty" bound the Emperor to be enemy to enemy. Chapuys then wished that all things were cleared, and he would, for himself, ask what hurt should follow if Henry "did subscribe to this treaty or peace with France;" Englishmen had talked largely of the Emperor's making peace and leaving his old friend in the wars, but although princes esteem their honors above lucre, the Emperor did not esteem such vain rumors, and was never better affected towards Henry; and Grandvela, too, wrote that he desired the continuance of the amity. Replied that the common people usually talk as they see appearance, and, having seen Henry begin war with France for the Emperor's sake, they considered it unlikely that he would choose to continue it alone; doubtless the Emperor had that consideration of his honor that he would keep his treaty, and, since Henry in the beginning sent men to Landersay, the Emperor's sending a like aid would be, as it were, a payment of a debt. He recognised that the Emperor was many ways bound to Henry, and protested that he spake of goodwill, and if any piece of what he said was worth so much we might signify it privately into England.
In the course of his talk he suddenly asked if you had any ambassadors or agent in Almayn with the Protestants. "We said None that we knew of. No! said he, what is Christopher Mount? Mary! said we, he dwelleth in Almayn where he was born and hath been there these four or five years applying his study of the civil law. Is not he the King's Majesty's agent, said Chapuys, or how liveth he? We said we thought your Majesty, in respect of the long service which he hath done, had given him a living in England, but of any commission we knew nothing." Burborough, 18 June at 11 p.m. Signed.
Pp. 10. Add. Endd.: 1545.
Galba B.
x., 217.
B. M.
2. Contemporary copy of the above, undated.
Pp. 6.
Lansd. MS.
171. F. 67b.
B. M.
3. Later copy of § 2.
Pp. 6.
18 June. 984. Chapuys to Charles V.
Spanish
Calendar,
VIII., No. 70.
Yesterday received his letter enclosing despatches for the ambassador in England. As deciphering took a long time and the King intends shortly to visit the sea coast facing France, thought best not to delay the courier by writing at length,—especially as the despatch is so full and the ambassador clever. Wrote however, hastily, to the effect contained in his letter to Granvelle.
After dinner today, was again with Westminster and Petre, speaking of two ships of Quintana de Done and other private affairs. Told them that, moved by the importance of unity between their Princes, and desire, as author of this friendship, to increase it, he had recollected the King's request to Van der Delft and himself to warn the Emperor that the aid stipulated by the treaty should be ready in the event of the French joining the Scots in an invasion of England; if the King meditated making request for that aid, in view of the great French preparations against Boulogne, he should leave the Emperor no legitimate reason for refusing it, but the delay in redressing injuries did not exhibit that good faith which Paget so emphatically asserted, and still less did the seizures recently made, contrary to the agreement with Paget; Chapuys had even heard that the King was seeking to make an arrangement with the Protestants of the Empire, which would be contrary both to the treaty and to common honesty. Added that the King would be wise to recognise the treaty which the Emperor made with France with his consent, and prevent his people, even courtiers, from railing at it, for this might arouse the Emperor s resentment, whom the French were importuning not to consider himself bound to aid England, as Henry's refusal to recognise the treaty nullified the reservation in his favour contained in it. Further, as bearing on his own return to England, Chapuys thought the King had seemed more anxious to settle the matter for which Hertford and Winchester went into Flanders than to verify his contention about his consent to the treaty of peace; for, after telling Chapuys and his colleague that he would not negociate with them except in writing, and would send a special courier into Flanders for instructions to that effect, he neither did so nor ever afterwards discussed matters. Only, Hertford, Winchester and Paget came two days later to hear the rest of the ambassadors' instructions. The demands made by Hertford and Winchester on the Emperor, viz. to declare war and interdict trade, were certainly extraordinary.
Said nothing about commuting the armed contingent for a money subsidy, believing, as he writes to the Queen, that the King will take it badly, and that it should be left to the last. Perhaps, too, the French may be deterred from going to Scotland, and the Emperor is not bound to the defence of Boulogne. Of Calais the English feel sure, believing that the Emperor would not suffer the French to come by way of Gravelines, and to besiege Guisnes the French would have to depend for supplies upon the Emperor's adjoining countries. Besides, the Emperor is not bound to furnish aid until six weeks after actual invasion, so that there will be plenty of time to suggest the commutation, upon the mention of which the English might guess the Emperor's intentions and frustrate them by alleging his promise to raise troops for them in Germany at their expense.
In reply, Westminster and Petre thanked him, the former apologising for warmth shown yesterday in denying that the Emperor's peace with France was concluded with the King's consent; he spoke of such matters unwillingly, but it might well be supposed that, not only in England but throughout Christendom, people said that the Emperor drew the King into the war and left the burden of it on his shoulders; he had not heard of any injury that was not redressed, and doubted whether any vessel was now detained contrary to the agreement with Paget. Both said they had great complaints against the Emperor's subjects, especially Spaniards (and indeed they have produced many, but all old and already judicially settled); the King had cause for resentment if, as reported, reprisals were authorised in Spain against the English and his subjects' testimony not admitted in the courts there on the ground that they were heretics. They added, with reference to Chapuys' remark about the King's conversation, that the King, nevertheless, retained a good opinion of him; for when, at taking leave, they expressed their insufficiency for this mission, the King told them that there was no danger, since Chapuys would be here who "would tell the pure truth against no matter whom." Believes that they invented this, and that the King did not wish him to be here. There is no sign of negociation with France. Probably the King would listen to overtures, but from no fear of France. Petre said that the French would shortly be too busy with their own defence to invade others, for his King would have about 300 ships at sea, carrying 20,000 soldiers, and land forces to meet a French attack anywhere. For this Suffolk is going "to the Midlands," Norfolk to his own country, Hertford to the Scottish Border, the Lord Privy Seal to Essex, and St. John and the Master of the Horse to Southampton and Chichester. Over sea 4,000 or 5,000 men are now being sent. There had been talk of 30,000 men for Scotland, (fn. n5) but few had really been raised, even since news came that the French fleet had passed the straits of Gibraltar, and the Scots were thought to be short of food.
The English are strengthening Guisnes, but supplies are not large, either there or at Calais, all stores being destined for Boulogne. As to public opinion, every man of wit in England blasphemes at the war, and most of them call Boulogne "the new Milan" which will work their destruction, Money for the war has been raised under the name of a Benevolence, which the Bishop and Secretary say exceeds 400,000 ducats. The King will probably have sold some of the church revenues, as he did when he last crossed the Channel, and he is said to have drawn great profit from the abasement of the coinage; and yet money seems short, for the garrisons have not been paid for some months "and the King is being dunned to pay his other debts," and, moreover, desires to raise 400,000 ducats in Antwerp on security of lead from the ruined churches. There was a talk of his taking the revenues of the collegiate churches, as the ambassador in England will doubtless report. Bourbourg, 18 June 1545.
Endd. as received at Worms, 2 July 1545.
18 June. 985. Chapuys to Van der Delft.
Spanish
Calendar.
VIII., No 71,
The enclosed despatch received this morning was not all deciphered until 5 or 6 p.m. and his consideration of it was also interrupted by visits of M. de Roeulx and the Chancellor of the Order. It is, however, well drafted by the Emperor and Granvelle, and Van der Delft needs no advice. As Cato said of Caesar and Pompey the Emperor may say "Quem fugiam video, quem sequar nescio"; but his great good fortune will, Chapuys hopes, carry him through. The Scots have been so punished and are so disunited that they are unlikely to invade in force sufficient to justify a demand of the Emperor's aid under the treaty; and the French on this side cannot keep the field six weeks, their soldiers already deserting because of famine. Still, it would be unsafe to count upon this; and therefore the best course is to win time. Mention of the substitution of a money subsidy for the armed aid should be deferred. Possibly when France and England are in arms the Emperor may assemble an armed force to protect his own frontiers, and, the Kings being thereby rendered more inclined to peace, and the aid demanded by England becoming unnecessary, the expense of their assembly might be cast upon the King on the excuse that they were intended for him. With regard to the Emperor's demand that England should ratify his treaty with France, it is unadvisable to let the English think the point of vital importance to the Emperor. Rather, the King should recognise the treaty to stop his courtiers from speaking untruly about it and the French from alleging that he cannot claim the benefit of the clause therein in his favour.
Can only add to the common letter about this arbitration conference, that the English deputies produced affidavits made in London the 3rd inst to prove that the Spaniards represented by Carrion were recompensed by the King of France out of English property at Rouen; and Carrion is gone to Rouen to obtain evidence to the contrary. As to the books mentioned, M. de Bonvise can best help you. Bourbourg, 18 June 1545.
19 June. 986. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A. P. O., 197.
Meeting at Greenwich, 19 June. Present: Privy Seal, Winchester, Master of the Horse, Paget. Business:—Letter to Mr. Rous to send at least 1,000 qr. wheat and 1,000 qr. malt, with good butter and cheese, notwithstanding yesterday's letters. Letter to Sir Thos. Seymour to report to my lord of Suffolk the provisions for defence of Rye in case of invasion. Letter to Suffolk that upon advertisement of the Frenchmen's malice towards Rye, Seymour was sent thither to report. Warrant to Mr. Wymond Carewe for 60l. 8s. for the despatch of Mr. Auchar and Mr. Horne with 20l. apiece, and of Mr. Packenham to Callaice with 10l., and the rest to reward certain Flemings and Spaniards. Letter to lord Poyninges thanking him for the exploit of Daveren and signifying that he might entertain certain Albanoys who fled to him from the French Camp. Letter to lord Graye and Sir John Walloppe with "thanks for their lusty courages in the defence of their pieces" and advertisement that 800 men should be sent to them. Letter to my lord Deputy of Calais signifying that Barth. de Kyers is appointed to the East Pale toward Graveling, that he might entertain certain Albanoys who had fled from the French camp, and that he should with all diligence forward 6 "greate fowlars" and 2 "fawcons" which should shortly be sent for lord Graye.
987. Lisle to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., I. 787.
Thirty hulks are come into the Dounes, some of them being tall ships, bound for Bruage and Rochelle for salt. Three of them, laden with masts, shall be brought in to Dover pier, and the rest, which are in ballast, shall not depart till the King's fleet sets over "with the coast of France." Will take their bases and other ordnance from them, by indenture, as they are bound for the enemy's country and divers of the King's ships coming forth with Sir George Carewe lack such pieces. Thinks it not impossible to make him a present of some of the best of the French king's ships riding in the Fosse, between Newhaven and Harflew, or at least to set fire on them. Explains his project, which is to hire eight of the biggest of these hulks, put men on board them and, with some of the "small men," make false chase" of them into the mouth of the Seane; at the entry of which the pursuers shall put about and the writer appear before the river's mouth with whole fleet. While the enemy's attention is thus occupied, the hulks, for whom he has French pilots, shall by two and two attack the Carracon and two or three other of the biggest French ships. If wind and tide will not serve to bring them away the men will fire them and escape in the boats; and even if the galleys are there he trusts to lose no men, but only the bare hulks.
Copy, pp. 3. Headed: Copie of my lord Admiralles l're to the Kinges Mate. Endd. by Paget: Copye for my lord of Hertf.
19 June. 988. Thirlby and Petre to Paget.
r. o Mons. Chapuis, being yesterday at our lodgings, caused this gentleman, the bearer, to declare wrongs lately done to him and his factors at sea so cruelly as to seem worthy of reformation. We said that they must not look now to have every complaint examined by the Privy Council, seeing the great business that you be now troubled with. The party said that the takers of his goods were now in London intending to sell them. The men offer to put in sureties for the value of their goods; and if they were indeed used "with such tortures and extremities" they might well be helped. These new complaints make them cry out here that the agreement with you is not observed, "and whow so ever we awnswar, they styll lay before us this and thatt fact to the contrary," Burbarough, 19 June. Signed.
In Petre's hand, pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1545.
19 June. 989. Thirlby and Petre to Paget.
R. O.
St. P., x. 474.
Will not repeat what they have written to the King touching their discourse with Chapuis, who cast out often that he would that all occasions of controversy were gone, and that friends who wished the King well wrote to him that they were sorry there was no likelihood of good success in this Diet. In mentioning the matters of a Spaniard who is this morning gone into England with our letters, Chapuis said that he doubted what the Emperor would conceive on hearing that his subjects were daily taken upon the seas, and that Paget's promise made at Bruxelles was not kept, when he had released the arrest bona fide, thinking that the wrongs of his subjects would be reformed, who were instead "heard more difficilly than they were wont." Answered that they doubted not the Emperor's affection to the amity, and knew him to be a prince of more wisdom than to credit the exclamation of every light person, and as for the agreement which the Emperor made bona fide, the King has observed it optima fide; and though some of the Emperor's subjects were stayed by others of the King's, that was no more a breach of the agreement than was the daily colouring of Frenchmen's goods by Spaniards and others, and the Emperor's subjects had much more expedite justice in England than the King's subjects had in Spain or these countries. Here we touched upon the robbing of the King's subjects by Spaniards in the war with France before this, the daily wrongs done them by "those monstrous inquisitors," and these letters of reprisal granted for one man's fact; and, as for "difficill hearing in England," our men were not heard at all in Spain, for if one of them came to ask his right, they laid an exception against him that he was a heretic and excommunicate and therefore might not sue, or if he were heard and obtained sentence he must abide one appeal after another; the Prince there had granted letters of reprisal for one fact, and the King might have granted the like for forty that had less appearance of reason, but he had too much respect to the agreement. Chapuys only answered that it was not well, and that the Spaniards suffered multa et intolleranda. We answered that if this Diet had been when they were at war with France and we in peace, we were sure "that, for one injury done unto them now th'Englishmen then did suffer ten" and yet used no such vehemenence as these men, who insist on being heard by the Privy Council, as though all other affairs may be forsaken to give ear to them. We made a great matter of the injuries to the King's subjects in Spain, and set forth to them that they would hear no more than they listed, but among ourselves we think that they have saved our honesties; for if they assented to hear those quarrels we have slender proof of any of them, as indeed we have of all other particular matters, whereas on their side many of their complaints are thoroughly followed and the parties bring in both witnesses and testimonials, "and yet they have the same expedition that our men have, for that we always find some faults in their proofs." This morning we ended a matter wherein they have been very earnest, for a prisoner pretended to be taken upon the Emperor's ground by Mr. Bray's men. Mr. Bray proved that he was taken upon French ground. Burbarough, 19 June. Signed.
In Petre's hand, pp.6. Add. Endd.
19 June. 990. Bucler and Mont to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., x. 477.
The Protestants remain as hitherto, "as we know certainly by writing which they gave to th'Emperour on Sunday last past" wherein they declared that the Council at Trent, which the Bishop of Rome calls canonicum and legitimum, is not what was promised them and can never remedy these controversies, but if the Emperor will indict a Council in Germany wherein controversies shall be judged by the word of God they will send their learned men to it. The Emperor has prohibited the communication of this writing, but we are promised it by our friends who suffered us to read it.
The Palsgrave (who has hitherto abstained from meddling betwixt the parties, because his family was mediator at the Diet of Franckfurde five years past) has offered to travail to bring the parties to concord upon these two points, peace, and judgment of the Chamber. The arbitrament is thought to be privily devised by the Emperor to please both parties, or else to gain time to hear from the Turk, by his ambassadors, and from Rome, by Phernesius. These two points settled, men think that the money gathered since the Diet at Spiers will be employed in war against the Turk. Moreover they will contribute for three years after the cessing of all states of the Empire made in this Council, which cessing we cannot get as yet. The commissaries of Duke William of Bavarre act very moderately between Catholics and Protestants.
About 4,000 footmen who would have crossed the Albis into the diocese of Breame were stopped by the Dukes of Lunyngburgh and Holste, who, "having no knowledge from your Majesty, would not believe that they were for you." Mr. Mont yesternight chanced to hear this from Franciscus, the Duke of Saxon's chancellor, and reported it to Dr. Wotton and me. Being then certified by Wotton that they were for you, he showed it to the Duke of Lunyngburgh's ambassador, who despatched a post this morning to the Duke, who will both let them pass and further them "accordingly as the Landgrave hath written to him already, upon knowledge that they be for your Majesty." A three months' truce between the Bassa in Buda and Herr Leonard von Wels, Ferdinando's chief captain, is reported from Vienna. Wormbs, 19 June. Signed.
Pp.3. Add. Scaled. Endd.:1545.
19 June. 991. Bucler and Mont to Paget.
R. O. Have already written that the Landgrave both spoke and wrote to them to show him when the King made any men here; and now his friends have, for lack of advertisement, spent, as they say, 7,000 gelderns in horsemen to stop the passage of 4,000 footmen which are for the King. Surely they will think that the writers have been negligent. Wormbs, 19 June. Signed.
P1. Add. Sealed. Endd.: 1545.
19 June. 992. Charles V. to the Chancellor of Brabant.
Spanish
Calendar,
viii., No. 72.
Receives daily complaints of depredations upon his subjects by the English, who have also prohibited the export of merchandise to his dominions and are withdrawing their property from thence. As the Queen Dowager, to whom he now writes, is in Friesland, the Chancellor shall proceed to Antwerp and secretly enquire whether the English are withdrawing their property from Antwerp, Bruges, Bergen or elsewhere, and, if so, take measures to prevent it. Encloses a letter to the rentmaster of Zeeland to follow the Chancellor's instructions herein. Worms, 19 June 1545.
June. 993. Charles V. to Chapuys.
Ib. No. 73. To obtain some indemnity for the fresh depredations of the English, writes to the Queen Dowager and Chancellor of Brabant, as in the copies enclosed. Chapuys should inform and advise the ambassador in England thereupon, for whom a letter written yesterday (copy herewith) is enclosed. Thanks for his letters of the 11th inst. Worms, — June 1545.
20 June. 994. The Court of Augmentations.
R. O. Receipt, 20 June 37 Hen. VIII., by Nicholas Bacon, of London, solicitor of Augmentations, from Sir John Williams, treasurer of the same, of 126l. in full payment for the parsonages and chapels of Over Whyteacre, Netherwhyteacre and the Lee, Beds, (sic), which Bacon lately purchased of the King and has now sold to his Majesty. Signed.
P. 1. Seal injured.
20 June. 995. The Bishop of Bath.
Close Roll.
37 Hen. viii.
p. 4, No. 29. Rymer, xv.70.
Confirmation to the Crown by William bp. of Bath and Wells, of the lordship and manor of Wyke, Glouc. Wyveliscombe, Soms., 20 June 37 Hen. VIII.
Ratified by the Dean and Chapter of St. Andrews, Wells, in their chapter house, 23 June.
20 June. 996. Gaspar Duchy to P.
R. O. Mr. Vachan on coming hither some days ago spoke of the matter about which Duchy wrote to Paget, viz., the Fuggers' jewels and the finance of 200,000 or 300,000 cr., and has had the jewels viewed, although the basin will not be finished for six weeks yet. Does not know what the report will be, but presumes that the Fuggers will price them lower than if they were accustomed to sell them. As he has told Vaughan, the Fuggers are not jewel merchants; and he knows for a truth that they paid for the purchase and fashion of those in question 50,000 ducats, and rather than lose it would keep them long, as they have kept a piece which 20 years ago they might have sold for 100,000 ducats. Thinks that the King ought not to be too extreme about the price, because when it is known that the Fuggers gave him credit for so great a sum every merchant will wish to employ money in his service. If the King will take the jewels for 50,000 the Fuggers will join therewith 250,000 ducats in money at 40 patars the ducat and take the obligations of London and 10 per cent, interest,—a good bargain compared with what other princes pay. They will deliver the jewels and one third of the money at once, another third at the payments of Pentecost fair, and the rest as many days after the said payments as the first payment is before; and the obligation will be to repay at Pentecost fair in the year 1546, with the said interest, 330,000 ducats at 40 patars the ducat. Besides the said obligations they would have the King's promise.
As to the lead of which he spoke to Paget; as certain merchants are proposing to agree with the King for the whole, and have asked the writer to aid them with 150,000 ducats, it seems best to take the way before mentioned. When he has finished the business of the 300,000 ducats, some way should be thought of for the King's profit, such as the taking into his Majesty's own hands "le draps de pack les carises" and sending them hither to be sold for his profit "pour ungne seulle main" and accrediting a factor hither, as the king of Portugal used to do by means of his spiceries, and also taking such merchandise as alum, woad, fustians, linen and the like, which are bought there in great quantity. Paget may remember that they spoke of this; but for the present there is no need to undertake so many things as to make confusion.
Is grieved that Messire Barthelemy Compaigne writes to him that his service to the King has not been such as he pretended, for if Duchy is cautious (se je de respect) it is not to be taken in ill part, and if he has required at the Diet satisfaction for his herrings it is because he incurred the loss by his confidence in the Queen's safeconducts; nevertheless, if the King commands him to make no further demand at the Diet and promises him an equitable recompense as a gift or otherwise, he will speak no more at the Diet or otherwise. Will be obliged to Paget if, with the answer to this, he may know the King's pleasure.
Thanks Paget for assisting Captain Latin Dati, who, he hopes, will do the King good service. Had a nephew (? nenfvenr) expert in war, who went to Bolongie, and Captain John de Salerne had sent him an ensign bearer to Ghynes when he was taken by an ambuscade of them at Montarel. Begs Paget to recommend that he may be ransomed without his being known to be the writer's nephew. He is named Anthony Cuncy, Florentine. Antwerp, 20 June, 1545. Signed.
French, pp. 3. Add. Sealed. Endd.

Footnotes

  • n1. S.P. reads wrongly "herafter."
  • n2. Down to this point the text of this paragraph is printed in St. P. X., 498.
  • n3. Evidently meaning Walter Buoler.
  • n4. See Bodrbouro Papers (under 10 July), 1 ii.
  • n5. The Editor of the Spanish Calendar suggests in a parenthesis, "to be raised by Scotland"; but query?