Henry VIII: December 1545, 1-5

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 20 Part 2, August-December 1545. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1907.

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'Henry VIII: December 1545, 1-5', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 20 Part 2, August-December 1545, (London, 1907) pp. 456-471. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol20/no2/pp456-471 [accessed 24 April 2024]

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December 1545, 1-5

1 Dec. 911. The Queen's Footmen.
R. O. "The percelles . . . . . . . . . . . fot[emen by] warraunte be[ryn]g d[ate the] furst [day] of December ao r. r. H. viijvi xxxvij," viz.:—
To "every of them" 2½ yds. of scarlet for a cloak at 13s. 4d. the yard, and 2½ yds. crimson velvet at 13s. 4d. to guard it, and for the making 3s. 4d. To every of them 2 yds. of crimson velvet, at 13s. 4d., for a running coat, and for the making 3s. 4d. To every of them 2½ yds. of velvet crimson at 13s. 4d. for a pair of hose, 1 yd. of kersey at 2s. 8d. for the same, and l¼ ells of sarcenet at 5s. to line them, and for the lining and making 3s. 4d. And other similar items for doublets, hose and shirts, and hats, caps (Milan and French), ribbon points, garters and shoes. Total 56l. 10d. Signed as received by Laurans Leigh, Gylys Bateson, Robert Tyrthrey and —— (a mark).
Pp. 2. Mutilated.
1 Dec. 912. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A.P.C., 278.
Meeting at Westminster, 1 Dec. Present: Norfolk, Privy Seal, Great Chamberlain, Admiral, Cheyney, Browne, Wingfield, Petre, Sadler, Riche. Business:—General letter to justices, mayors, sheriffs, &c., to arrest the bodies, ships and goods of John Burges and John Gravesende of Shoram, Suss., until they appear to answer Diego de Astodyllo's accusation for taking Spaniards' goods upon the seas. Letters to —— (blank) to deliver 100l. in prest to Parson Levet for making iron guns. Robert Maxwell subscribed and sealed a bond to discharge his father's promise and enter upon warning, "which remaineth in the study at Westminster." Letters to Lord Evre of thanks for the late enterprise done by him and Mr. Bowes, "and likewise lately by the garrison of Barwyke"; with request to see that the Scots do not lie near in quiet, and to devastate such places of the assured lands as they use to harbour in, explaining to such as keep their promises the reason for this, and that the King would rather relieve them than suffer enemies to take advantage of their lands and persons, as was taken of the laird of Estnesbeyt who was committed to Hewme castle.
1 Dec. 913. Parliament of Scotland.
Acts of the P.
of Sc., ii 463.
Held at Linlithgow, 1 Dec. 1545, by Mr. James Foulis of Colintoun, clerk of the rolls of the register, Mr. Henry Lauder, advocate, and Mr. Mr. George Hay, rector of Renfrew, commissioners; together with John Ross, deputy constable, Hen. Foulis, deputy marshal, John Gray, serjeant, and John Baxter, judicator. Business:—Parliament prorogued to 19 Dec. inst.
1 Dec. 914. Venetian News.
R. O. Out of letters from Venice, calend. Dec.
Letters from Constantinople of 24 and 26 Oct. announce a truce between the Turk, the Emperor and Ferdinand, with all Christendom, for one year from the beginning of this month. If, however, during that time, three frontier castles, belonging to a Hungarian waywode (fn. n1) who is now the Turk's prisoner, are restored to the Turk this truce shall last other four years; and the Turk writes to the French king to exhort the Emperor and Ferdinand therein. Their ambassadors who went to conclude this will return through Hungary, having lost almost all their servants by plague. The prelates, who were at Trent for the French king, pending the Pope's publication of the indictment of the Council for the third Sunday of Advent, (fn. n2) said that they wished to depart, and answered, when the Papists objected, that their King so commanded. Their departure causes suspicion. A greater thing has happened there. Many bishops out of the rabble of Papists at Trent had united against the Lord and His Christ, and as they recognized themselves to be unarmed, being by nature slow bellies and enemies of the truth, each diligently procured religious books, such as are brought from Germany into Italy, that they might know the weapons of their enemies. But the Lord took them in their own craft, so that, as they perused those books, the more part of them was converted to God, and from persecutors they became defenders of the truth. Some of them, indeed, had an appearance of piety, excelled in a certain feigned sanctity;—now they openly profess Christ. The Emperor has sent to Rome urging the Council, for no other reason than to condemn the Protestants if they do not attend it, so as to have legitimate cause for war against them. To this the Pope assents; and therefore indicted the Council for the third Sunday of Advent. His nephew, Cardinal Fernesius, is to go to that war with 10,000 foot and 700 horse. But not one of those prelates who are to come to Trent from Rome has yet started. Some there are who much wish certain of the Protestants to be at the Council, whether for piety (because many even in the midst of Popedom love Christ) or for hatred of this Pope who first began thus openly dilapidare patrimonium Petri, as in this alienation of Parma and Piacenza. These things all make for the kingdom of Christ, and when we see Satan's kingdom so divided we may hope for its early fall. It is agreed that the Pope and Emperor are knit together. The victory against the Duke of Brunswick pleased Italy, especially the Venetians, who judge that that war was not made without the counsel of certain persons (quorundam). The Duke's son, who was at Padua for study, was, upon his father's fall, summoned to Rome,— perhaps as a hostage, for the Pope is very tenacious of his own. The Duke while at war with you, had a proctor at Rome to get money of the Pope; but he got only words. It was lately reported that 2,000 handguns were arrested in Germany and were suspected to be sent by the Pope to aid Brunswick; but the truth is that they belong to a merchant of Brixia who wished to take them to England, and, being refused passage through Switzerland, came hither for an order from this Signory to pass by Trent into Germany.
Lat, In Mont's hand, (fn. n3) pp. 2.
1 Dec. 915. Verallo and Dandino to Cardinal Farnese.
R. O. Wrote on the 26th and 29th ult. of the departure hence of the Admiral and his colleagues without any conclusion of the practises either with the Emperor or England, and how, after the departure of the French ministers, letters came from their King authorising the offer of Brescia (Bresse) as well as Savoy (clinging only to the retention of Piedmont). This overture was then made by the ordinary ambassador. The Emperor answered that he made little of Bressa without the rest which the King occupies in Italy, but that he still remained the King's friend, and had told the English ambassador so; whereupon, Father Gusman says, the French ambassador did not add the other part of the King's letter, which bragged in the way we wrote before, but said that the Emperor could not have spoken to the English ambassador more aptly for his affairs, because he has most influence over them when they think that he stands well with the King. The King's reply having come to the letter which Father Gusman wrote, after the Admiral, upon his conference both with the Emperor and Granvela for the chastisement of England, wherein he made large offers on the King's behalf, is only a general approval of the matter being treated; so that the Emperor is not expected to listen to it, and indeed he has put off for two days the Friar's requests for audience upon it. Granvela however promises him the resolution to-day before the Emperor leaves. The poor Father is very dissatisfied, and has in great suspicion the two long colloquies which, after the Admiral's departure, the Emperor had in his chamber with the bp. of Winchester, believing that a new offensive and defensive league is in treaty between them. Have no other word of this, but will keep their eyes open. Hear that Winchester will follow the Emperor to Utrecht, a sign that he awaits answer from his King to what he has written; for, otherwise, he would return home, since the French are gone.
* * * *
Antwerp, 1 Dec. 1545.
ltal. Modern transcript from Rome, pp. 4.
2 Dec. 916. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A.P C., 278.
Meeting at Westminster, 2 Dec. Present: Chancellor, Norfolk, Great Master, Privy Seal, Great Chamberlain, Essex, Cheyney, Browne, Wingfield. Business:—Passports made for Morgante Maufron, Charles de Navarre, Nic. Gressia, Petro de Villa Fana and Petro Pirovano, each with men and horses (number specified), who being "cassed" had licence to depart the realm. Letter to Lord Grave and the Treasurer of Calais to pay Joste Clautz, Almain, captain of an ensign of 400 footmen, all pays due to him and casse him and his ensign; to the treasurer of the Tenth for 400l. to be delivered to Wm. Elmes towards charges of four ships in the North Seas, and 88l. 12s. 10d. to be delivered to Sir Fras. Lovel for surplusage of his account in providing carriage horses for the wars against France; to the abp. Of York, signifying the determination of the clergy of Canterbury province to continue their grant of double tenth and subsidy, with request to have the same matter wisely considered in his province; and to the Treasurer of the Chamber for 7l. 2s. 4d. for the apparel of young Coningham, "remaining pledge in the Tower for the earl of Glencarne."
2 Dec. 917. Paget to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., x. 744.
Received his letters of the 29th ult. and will thereby frame further proceedings with Sturmius. One thing has come to pass which Henry will not mislike, viz., the revocation of the Admiral and his colleagues, who seem to have done little. Now the Frenchmen labour to have my lord of Winchester revoked, wherein Sturmius came "this other day" from Ardre, challenging half a promise thereof. Answered that what he said was that if the Admiral were gone Winchester had no more to do there; it was well that Winchester was from home, who might otherwise empeach their proceedings here, and, as for his tarrying there driving the French king to send some new embassade with some new device, he was sent for no other purpose than to talk with the Admiral, and it were well to let him alone, for they knew that he favoured not the Protestants. "And I may tell it you," quoth Paget, "Mary, you may not tell to them of Fraunce, for peradventure our bishop will tell another contrary to your expectation, I have written home to somebody to practise to keep him out for a while; but now, I am sure, you know the reason of it, you like it well, and maketh also somewhat for them of Fraunce, who take him not to be their friend, and therefore now being from home he shall not much stand in their light." With this answer Sturmius seemed well content. He wished to know whether Paget had written into England touching his overture made ten days ago, and, seeing that he had opened two overtures for France, to what point Henry would "grow." Paget replied that he had written to a friend in the Council, but had not yet received answer; and asked what two overtures he meant. Recites the subsequent conversation, in which Sturmius said that he meant the overture made by Sleidanus in England touching the sequestration and the aid of horsemen, and that now made by himself, for which he would show the French king's hand, which he expected to find awaiting him at Ardre; three months had been spent in this matter and nothing done, and, as for Paget's saying that it was the Frenchmen's fault, who came forward with pieces of overtures, he thought that the French to pay the pension, leave Boulloyn to the King until their debt was paid (which would be never) and the Scots to give hostages for the marriage of their Princess to the Prince was not to be called a piece of an overture. Paget answered that Henry had Boulloyn already and (because Sturmius spoke of the power of France and risk of the French king's joining with the Pope and the Emperor) the Frenchmen might stamp and stare their uttermost; and so bragged a little, saying that every Englishman counted himself as worth three Frenchmen. Sturmius thought that they might, if the French had no better captains than the Admiral and Mons. du Bees; and he feared that if the King did not like this overture they must break off, as it was the furthest to which France could possibly be brought.
Sturmius is altogether French, but without him (his colleagues are such sheep, except Brewno) we must have broken up ere this. It may please you, therefore, in case he propone this overture on the French king's behalf, to signify whether I shall directly refuse it and stand to our instructions, "or else come to any of the overtures, viz., either the remission of the third part of your pension viager with Estaples and a piece of ground on this side, or else the one half retaining the whole county of Boullonnoys and having your arrearages paid, and likewise your pleasure for the Scots; for these gross Almains intend to depart before Christmas." Brewno, the other day, hinted that for the acquittal of all debts and pensions you might have Boulloyn and Ardre with their whole counties; which I said would be a good bargain for France, to get release of so much for what you had already. "Why," quoth he, "the French king hath all saving the town of Boulloyn." "That is not so," quoth I, "and that which he hath, we having Boulloyn, he is like to keep in shrewd rest." Calais, 2 Dec. 1545. Signed.
Pp. 6. Add. Endd.
Calig. E. iv.,
76.
B. M.
2. Original draft of the above in Paget's hand.
Pp. 6. Much mutilated. Endd. (f. 79): Mynute.
2 Dec. 918. Paget to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., x.748.
Bruno and Sleydanus have just been to show him a letter from Sturmius, at Ardre, to the effect that, to learn certainly how far the French king will come (albeit he had spoken with La Planche and Fraxine, who lately came from Madame Destamps), he was going to the French king, and desired to speak first with Bruno. And Bruno again desired Paget to devise means of peace, who answered that the devisers were in France and that, when Sturmius returned, he would "dream out somewhat to advance the matter withal." Henry may meanwhile conceive instructions for him. They are thoroughly persuaded that there is no hope of Bulleyn, and Paget has also named Bullonoys to them. In this letter Sturmius writes that the Frenchmen will by no means come to Calais, but, alternatim, to Ardre and Guysnes. Would know whether, rather than fail, to meet them again in the fields. Has omitted nothing to enforce the Protestants to persuade the Frenchmen to agree with Henry. Will have nothing to write about until Sturmius returns. Calais, 2 Dec., 10 p.m., 1545.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
Calig. E. iv.,
69.
B. M.
2. Contemporary copy of the above. Pp. 2. Much mutilated.
2 Dec. 919. Paget to Petre.
R. O. I have received all your writings, with the King's letters, save the copy of the French king's letters of acceptation of the aid at the Emperor's invasion of Provence, which will serve to purpose when we next meet the French commissioners; but as for the letter which you mention answering all my articles, I have received none but a short one from the Council, mentioning only the abstinence and to tell the Protestants of the French practices against them with the Emperor. If the Protestants require the abstinence again we shall proceed therein, for they will not stick at your exceptions as to fortifying and victualling by land, having, at my being on Sunday (fn. n4) at Bullen, victualled their new fort, as you may perceive by the deposition of a prisoner then taken at the skirmish, which was one of the bravest skirmishes ever seen. Victual must shortly be sent to Guyznes, which will be called victualling by land, because of the carriage from Calais to St. Peter's, and they (the French) will claim the like right to carry victual from Porthil to their new fort, and from the sea side to Hardelow. To avoid the victualling of Ardre, I have ordered that tomorrow certain beeves and muttons which are here for Bulloyn shall be conveyed thither. The Frenchmen's new fort shows proudly, but is so distant that there a white horse can hardly be discerned from a black, and their shot is only troublesome for the noise. "They shot at my coming in lxxviij shot at ij times and did no hurt in the world." The King's pieces, when perfect, as they may shortly be, will make Bullen impregnable. The bray without the castle looks well but wants good flankers. Mr. Brigges says that he can keep it with 600, others that it will ask at least 800. "The new plot of Basebullen wilbe shortly in order [to] be defended and the Young Man (if he were finished) liketh my foolish judgment well, but the Old is a diamond and, if a time may come for the finishing of it as his Majesty has devised, [I] think it will be the strongest piece in the world one (?) of them. I saw also Ambletew, and some other men with me that profess a skill in those things, and it seems not so necessary to be gone in hand withal and some others would. His Majesty hath a servant at Bullen whom I wish he knew, one that will prove the best man of war, with time and experience, that hath been many days, a good husband, a strait keeper of discipline military, a great foreseer in fortification and can make his plattes artificially; if one thing fail in him that his father had (I mean too strong opinion) he will undoubtedly be excellent, and is already a sage man, albeit he be young in years. It is Mr. Wiat. If he were at school with his Majesty but half a year it would do him seven years' worth a good. There is also one Ardern, much commended of every man for forwardness in service, and two Dudleys, I saw them both, and specially the elder called Edward, play the m[en] wondrous honestly at the skirmish, even almost under the walls of the new fort. I trust his Majesty shall hear shortly that Samer and Daverne be fired, and also some good done at Estaples if it be possible. Mary ! they would not have his Majesty know it till it be done."
Because his Majesty, when here, gave the men of war leave to eat flesh, and fish is now scarce, they would know whether they offend in eating flesh. Thinks them "for[ward, tr]actable and serviceable men." Almost forgot to say that less than 5,000 men cannot keep the King's pieces there. Sends a billet of munition at Bullen and begs him to remind the King of Mr. Brown, for Risebank, if Carew die, who is said to be past remedy. Calais, 2 Dec. 1545.
Hol., pp. 4. Mutilated. Add. Endd.
2 Dec. 920. Paget to Petre.
R. O. Encloses schedule of the munition at Bullen. Forgot to send it to-day, and also to signify the forwardness of the haven there, which is well advanced and will "defend against" any fort the enemy can make. Would know the King's pleasure in points mentioned in his letter today. "And, now that I fantazy they will be induced to leave Boleyn, my care is somewhat abated for the rest of things, and wot you why? For that, besides the commodity of the thirty, the King's Majesty's heart shall be eased, the which is much to my ease: long and well at ease might it be." Calais, 2 Dec., at night late, 1545.
P.s.—"I pray you cause some man to advertise me how the Parliament goeth forward."
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
R. O. 2. List of "ordynaunce of brasse munycions and abyllementes of war remaynyng in High Bollonge the xxvj of Novembr. a  1545."
P. 1.
3 Dec. 921. Paget to Petre.
R. O. Recommends bearer Tyberio, in whose favour Lord Greye, Mr. Wallopp and others desire him to write, that he may kiss the King's hands, and have good words to be retained next year, and some reward, if only 100cr. He is paid here for wages and conduct. Calais, 3 Dec. 1545. Signed,
P. 1. Add. Endd.
ii. Memorandum at foot in another hand.—"Myld[nal?]. Tyberio. iiijmli. Thes. Camer. Dunne for gres."
3 & 4 Dec. 922. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A P.C., 279,
280.
"The third of December they sat in the Starre Chamber."
Meeting at Westminster, 4 Dec. Present: Norfolk, Great Master, Privy Seal, Great Chamberlain, Cheyney, Gage, Wingfield, Petre. Business:— Vincent Mondye, at present ordering the King's victuals at Calais, appointed by letter to repair to Boloyne, as comptroller of victuals, rice Mr. Aucher; and letters were written to Deputy and Council of Calais to appoint a successor at Calais and signify his name hither; and to the Lord Lieutenant of Boloyne to receive Mondye and provide him such entertainment as Mr. Aucher or Wm. Mylward had. Letters addressed to Mr. Grimston, acting captain at Portsmouth, warning him that 26 ships were rigged at Dieppe, to be joined by 12 galleys. Sieur de St. Remy, brother to Mons. de Fonteney, had passport to return over sea. Letters written to Earl of Surrey to place Thomas Hensonne in the room of a captain or man at arms at Boloyne. Letters written to Deputy and Council of Ireland, enclosing supplication of James Deveroyse, to examine his claim to certain lands in Wexford. Upon information by Osborte Mountfourthe that John Deye, jun., of ———— (blank) had brought ———— (blank) qr. Of grain to London which, by his bond to the customer of Yarmouth, should have gone to Calais, Deye was committed to the Flete, Ward and Mountfourth ordered to report the state of the grain. Information was also given by Mountfourthe of like "covyne" by two other Norfolk men, under colour of victualling the Marquis Dorset's house in Leicestershire, but the hearing of the matter was respited. Upon report by Thomas Chaloner of Mr. Vaughan's answer to James Bulstred's supplication against him, the Council willed Bulstred to bring certificate from the gentlemen of the six Oxfordshire hundreds, whence the 180 soldiers came, that Mr. Vaughan, either in dismissing them or receiving them at Portsmouth, undertook that their harness and weapons should be forthcoming. Sir Geo. Bayneham had warrant to the Treasurer of the Chamber for 30l., four days' wages of 100 men, at 6d. and their coats at 4s., who were levied in Gloucestershire but countermanded.
4 Dec. 923. Victuals for Calais and Boulogne.
Soc. of
Antiq. Procl.,
ii. 158.
Mandate to the sheriff of Essex to make proclamation that, as the necessary furniture of Callis, Bullyn and other pieces beyond sea requires great provision of cheese and bacon to be presently made in Essex, all such provision made there except the King's shall be stayed until the Purification of Our Lady next. Westm., 4 Dec. 37 Hen. VIII.
Modern copy, p. 1.
4 Dec. 924. College of Astley.
R. O. Valor of the college of Asteley, John Brereton, LL.D., dean, certified by Thos. Argall, from the books of the Court of Tenths and First Fruits. With note by Sir Edward North that, 4 Dec. 37 Hen. VIII., the said college was granted to the Marquis of Dorset.
Later copy, large paper, pp. 2.
4 Dec. 925. Henry VIII. to Paget.
R. O.
St. P., x. 749.
To his letters of the 2nd inst. signifying his further conference with Sturmius and desire to know Henry's final resolution, answers that (where Brewno, the chief and gravest of those ambassadors, hinted that for the acquittal of all debts and pensions Bulloyn and Ardre with their whole counties might be rendered) he must search out what ground Brewno had for this overture. In treating of it he may say that Bulloyn and most of the county of Bullonoys being in Henry's hands, Ardre and the whole county of Guysnes and the residue of Bullonoys seems a small thing in respect of the money already due; yet, as, by this means, a clear extinguishment of all occasions of strife between the Kings and their successors is likely, and the overture has proceeded from them, Henry will remit all arrears due to him, and all expenses sustained in the war, to have the town and county of Bullonoys, the town of Ardre and the county of Guisnes released to him and his successors. And Paget shall magnify the sums of money remitted and the smallness of the thing received; but, if he cannot persuade them to it, he shall descend to offer also the discharge of the pension perpetual, provided that the pension viager and its arrears are paid; and, rather than fail, he shall descend further to remit the whole arrears and half the pension viager, or, for one million paid in hand, the whole pension viager.
Touching the Scots, he may say that he marvels at the French sticking so earnestly to their comprehension, which can only serve to give occasion of variance hereafter. In past treaties with Henry the French have not been so precise to comprehend the Scots, and in their late treaty with the Emperor they left the Scots out. At Bulloyn the ambassadors told Henry that they only desired some good ground for leaving the Scots, and seemed satisfied when shown how the Scots had by treaty expressly abandoned them. They ought to be content therewith, seeing that in their treaties with Henry heretofore they comprehended the Scots only with conditions which the Scots have not observed. As this treaty is for a peace to continue for ever, such a means of variance as the comprehension of the Scots should be left out; but, if they will by no means assent thereto, Paget shall declare the treaty passed with the Scots for the marriage of their young Queen to Henry's son, and say that if the Scots will perform it, and be content with some alterations, of no great weight therein, and delivery of their young Queen, to be kept after such sort as was proponed by Sturmius, Henry will agree to their comprehension with the qualification made in the treaty of which he commanded a copy to be sent to Paget.
He shall secretly travail herein with Brewno, and learn whether Brewno will serve Henry, for a pension, as Sturmius does the French king.
Is pleased to grant an abstinence during the time of this treaty, "for the land only, so as they begin not in the mean time any new fortifications in Bullonoyse nor the county of Guysnes."
Draft, slightly mutilated and faded, pp. 9. Endd.: [M.] to Mr. Secretary, Mr. Paget, iiijo Decembris.
Calig. E. IV.,
120.
B. M.
2. Original letter of which the above is the draft. Dated Westm., 4 Dec. 37 Hen. VIII.
Pp. 4. Much mutilated. Add. Endd.
R. O. 3."For awnsw[er to Bruno's over]tures.
"The first degree: to remit the [whole] arrearages and charges of the war.
"The second: to remit the costs and expenses of the wars and the pension perpetual, so as the viager be from henceforth truly paid with the arrearages of the same.
"The third: to remit the arrearages, charges, pension perpetual and half the pension viager.
"And, if they will pay one million in hand, the pension viager to be also clearly remitted."
In Petre's hand, p. 1.
R. O. 4. A paper of "Special Remembrances."
"To remain as a gage.
"The owners to enjoy their own lands, so as they become the King's Majesty's subjects and obey his laws and ordinances touching the order of their lands and persons.
"Three millions to be paid at once.
"The payment of the pension yearly besides.
"Fortifications at the liberty of either prince within his limits.
"Their fort to remain.
"The hill to be the King's Majesty's between the water side and the French fort.
"The pale to go by the river of Bulloyn and so from thence to Guisnez, taking in Fynez.
"The Scottes."
P. 1. Endd.: Special remembrances.
4 Dec. 926. J. Sturmius to Paget.
R. O. Departs at 7 o'clock, in post, to the King [Francis], for the reason which Paget knows. Will, as far as possible, bring everything clear, and would like when he comes again to know at Calais (istic) the things necessary for the finishing of the business. Knows his zeal for peace. Ardeis, quarta Novemb. (sic).
D. Plancius desires permission to come to see Calais to-day. Knows him to be a wise man, and begs that he may have safeconduct for this today, so that he may be with Sturmius at Court on Monday. (fn. n5) Wishes a trumpeter sent with the safeconduct to D. Plancius.
The Scots begin to urge the King to the marriage of the Governor's son and the Princess, for which cause the Cardinal of St. Andrews and Governor are said to be coming into France. We must hasten to hinder this project, than which nothing can be more against the peace. I would not write this if our cause did not demand it; but I write it to you alone, as to a wise and silent man.
Lat. Hol., p. 1. Add.
4 Dec. 927. Paget to Henry VIII.
R. O. This day, after dinner, Sleidanus brought me a letter (enclosed) from Sturnrius, and showed me another to himself of like effect, desiring that, as he is gone to learn the French king's determination, he may at his return learn from me your pleasure touching his overture for the continuation of the pension, the keeping of Boulloyn and Boullonnois pignoris loco for money already due, and the marriage of Scotland. "If the Protestants be not abused, the French be disposed to come to some point if they may be taken at the bound." Plancius, for whom Sturmius desires a safeconduct to Calais, is he that brought me the letter from Longueval, and seems to have some credit from Longueval or Madame Destampes. If the end of Sturmius's letter be true (as is not unlikely) your ships might be commanded to intercept "those gallants that go into France." Calais, 4 Dec. 1545, at night. Signed
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.
4 Dec. 928. Paget to Petre.
R. O. Hearing of 30 hoys laden with herring into France, contrary to the covenant made with Paget at Brucelles and to the Emperor's proclamation, sent out the pinnaces at Calays, who brought 12 of them into this road, but manned them so slenderly with Englishmen that eight have last night gone into France carrying the Englishmen with them. If no word come to the contrary, will send one of the remaining four to Boulloyn. These Flemings had a French man of war to waft them, who was not met with. The Fawcon is well mended and a mast meet for her has just floated in with the flood. Wishes that wiser folk had charge of her, for neither master nor captain is above 20 years old or knows anything that " 'longeth to their charge." Since writing the above, learns from the captain that the said mast will not serve, being in two pieces, so that she must go to London to be trimmed. Calays, 4 Dec, at night, 1545. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.
4 Dec. 929. Surrey to Henry VIII.
R. O.
Nott's
Howard
181.
Since the revictualment by Mons. de Tays (when it appears that all fled back of Monstruell save the the sheep and oxen and 16 carts containing 30 pieces of wine) the enemy have had to plan a new revictualment. Hearing that they would this morning at full sea, with 600 or 700 horse, put in many carts, and that the Almaynes marched from Aussie Chatau to land munitions which were coming by sea to Portehill from Deape and Estaples, Surrey charged the King's ships to keep this shore, and, three hours before day, sent Mr. Wyat and Mr. Palmer with 1,000 footmen to ambush under the hill where St. Estien's church stood (which being used by the enemy to espy from, was, at last journey into Boulonoyes, when Mr. Bridges burnt Samar, by Mr. Wyat, the master of the Ordnance and Mr. Flammocke overthrown, together with 12 Gascons who would not yield it). At the opening of the gates, Surrey and Mr. Marshall with the ordinary horsemen joined them, and the Northern horsemen were sent to scout towards Hardelow while Mr. Wyat and Mr. Palmer went with a few horsemen towards the fortress, to seek ground for Henry's camp if he should take the field next year. These, going towards Portehill, found all the sheep; and Mr. Palmer having taken a prisoner of the fortress, drove him and the sheep towards the ambush; whereupon above 700 footmen from the fortress, followed the sheep and could not have escaped the ambush ("peradventure with some danger of their fortress)" had not 700 horsemen appeared in the direction of Hardelow, which caused our horsemen to leave the sheep and assemble upon the hill. Mr. Marshall and the cavalry "offered the charge," and the enemy, seeing but our ordinary horsemen, and the flood increasing, charged, and our horsemen drew them down to the passage, beneath our footmen who prevented their return and seven of their men at arms were taken. In the charge Mr. Marshall hardily broke his mace upon a Frenchman and Mr. Shellaye broke his staflf upon and captured a tall young gentleman of Mons. de Botyers' band, and all the men at arms of this town broke their staves. The Frenchmen then made as though they would charge our footmen, whom Surrey thereupon placed in the trench on the hill top, which the enemy made when their camp lay there, and sent for succour. Mr. Dudley, the bearer, his brother, and Captain Clement of the Italians, took the hedges near the strongest troop, and when the Frenchmen saw the hacquebuters shoot off they began to retire. Sir Thomas Palmer then charged them, and so we drove them to the Sandhilles and, from hill to hill, to Hardelow. By that time succours were come, and we had 1,500 men in the trenches on the hill and 500 to keep the passage, and could see the carts swarm up the hill again towards Monstruell, having never passed Nuefe Chatau; and, as five ensigns of footmen were discovered coming out of the wood, and it was 3 o'clock, and we four miles from home, and also because we judged by the fires in the wood that the Almains were come and one of our men discovered nine ensigns of footmen, I thought meet to return to my charge, where I had left Mr. Bridges, Mr. Under-marshall, the master of the Ordnance and Mr. Porter. The Frenchmen retired with their horses "well dagged with arrows" and afraid. Wishes that Henry conld have seen the willingness of his men.
"This day I think, if th'Almaynes be come, they shall put in their carts against our will; yet sent I yesterday for my lord Graye with his horsemen, with whom, if he come, we shall devise what is further to be done." Trusts that the bitter weather will weary them, and that the Almains shall lose the intent of their journey by reason of the King's ships hindering the revictualment by Portehill, who have already taken divers sail laden with herring and coal. With any number of horsemen here, and pinnaces to keep this shore, the revictualment of this fortress would cost the French king dear.
Begs that the King's Council who were present at this journey, the colonels of the Arbanoys and Italians, with other captains, &c., may have thanks; and specially mentions the bearer Mr. Dudley, his brother in the Old Man, Mr. Arden, and Mr. Adrian Poyninges. "Francis Aslebye, that hurt Mons. Doumaylle, brake his staff very honestly." Trusts that, as this ground has been happy both now and in my lord Admiral's time, it will so continue; and when the King takes the field he will see how the French king has imprisoned his fortress and how easy it is to keep the strait. Credence for bearer. Bouloyne, 4 Dec. 1545. Signed.
Pp. 9. Add. Endd.
4 Dec. 930. Adrian Vander Wiede to John Johnson.
R. O. Commercial matters. Dunckercke, 4 Dec., '45.
French. Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.: "Aunsweryd le 7 of the same at Callais etc."
4 Dec. 931. Robert Andrew to John Johnson.
R. O. Andwerp, 4 Dec. 1545:—In pursuance of your letters of 11 and 16 Nov. I have, by the help of our friend Robert Tempest, sold Adrian van Mersche's bill to Art van Dalle, after 1 per cent, for a month, and received 126l. 6s. 0d. Fl. conditionally that if it be unpaid at 24 Jan. next we shall pay it ourselves, and if it be paid 8 days before the 24th he to allow us after 12 per cent. Herewith I send your bill cancelled, and also your arms which have been long "under hand" and for which I paid 1l. 6s. 8d. Fl.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: in Callais. Ennd.: Aunsweryd at Callais le 6 of the same and entryd into jurnall.
4 Dec. 932. Ric. Lambert, Grocer, to John Johnson.
R. O. Andwarp, 4 Dec. '45:—Has received from London, from John Ryvers, grocer, a bill drawn by Johnson for payment here of 130l. 8s. 4d. Fl., and asks who is to pay it.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: at Callis. Endd.: Aunswerid le 6 of the same at Callais.
4 Dec. 933. Venice.
Venetian
Calendar
(Brown),
No. 363.
Motion (made and lost) in the Council of Ten and Junta to concede safeconduct to Ludovico da l'Armi for five years, at the suit of the King of England.
Ib. Nos. 364
and 365.
Motions made (finally by Francesco Venier) and passed for an answer to the English ambassador, viz.:—
That the crimes of Ludovico da l'Armi were so enormous that although the Signory desire to gratify the King they must have regard to justice and the peace of their subjects.
And to their secretary in England, viz.:—
That they have received the King's letters of 28 Sept. urging them to release Ludovico da l'Armi and those arrested with him; and also received the Secretary's letters of 3, 10, 19 and 29 "of said month" and those "of the 3rd," the last relating his dealing with the Chancellor therein. He must obtain audience and tell the King that they have always graciously admitted his agents and servants, and notably Ludovico da l'Armi, who while he attended to the King's service was welcome; but when he assaulted their night watch and sent men to Treviso to kill Count Curio Bua and scale the walls, the Signory could do no otherwise than prosecute him. This to be said with every demonstration of the Signory's goodwill to his Majesty.
5 Dec. 934. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A. P. C., 282.
Meeting at Westminster, 5 Dec. Present: Chancellor, Norfolk, Great Master, Privy Seal, Great Chamberlain, Essex, Admiral, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Petre, Sadler, Riche. Business:—George Butshed, who had long remained in the Marshalsie because, being captain of a ship, he spoiled goods of Roger de Prat and others who had safeconduct to bring in French wares, showing himself repentant and desirous to redubbe his offence, was released. Upon information by the tenants of the town of Halsted against Sir Thomas Gale, their vicar, for not expounding the Ten Commandments, Paternoster and "the xij Articles" nor reading the King's injunctions at the prefixed times, and for sinister interpretation of Scripture in a sermon "touching spiritual oblations"; the Vicar was admonished more diligently to attend to the King's injunctions, and not in his sermons "to make his private matter of tithe rights, etc., a necessary incident unto God's right," and the parishioners to beware hereafter of putting him in suit out of malice, although for just cause their due complaint should be received with thanks. Recognisance (cited) of Nic. Barker of Aylesham, Norf., husbandman, and Thos. Androwes, of Gressham, Norf., to attend the Council ready to answer the information against them of Osbert Mountford, purveyor of grain to the King. Mich. Davy had warrant to deliver 25l. to Mons. de St. Remy, in reward,
5 Dec. 935. Price of Wine.
Soc of Antiq.
Proel. ii., 160.
Mandate to the mayor and sheriffs of London to proclaim that the Council as authorised by Parliament, fix the following prices of wine, viz., not above 6l. 13s. 4d. for a tun of best Gascoigne, or 5l. 6s. 8d. for best French, all other measures at the same rate; small and thin wines to be sold under the above prices as the parties can agree Westm., 5 Dec. 37 Hen. VIII.
Modern copy, p. 1.
5 Dec. 936. Victuals for Calais and Boulogne.
Soc. of
Antiq. Procl.,
ii. 159.
Mandate to the sheriff of Norfolk and Suffolk to make proclamation that, as the necessary furniture of Calais, Bulline and other pieces beyond sea requires a great provision of butter, cheese and all kinds of grain to be made in Norfolk and Suffolk, all such provision in these counties shall be stayed until the Purification of Our Lady next, except the King's provisions, the provision of grain for the city of London, and shipments at adventure to Callis and Bulline. And, in order that the King's commissioners may report what grain has been provided within the said counties, the King charges all his subjects thereof to certify his Commissioners in writing what grain they have bought therein since Easter last and where it now remains. And all sellers of grain or makers of malt shall "make their malt good and hamble without any long tails, and also cleanse and dight all the said grains," and deliver good measure "according to the custom of the country, that is to say, 21 for 20, and not 5 for 4 of malt in the comes or fleyed." And all who carry grain to Bulline or Callis at their own adventure shall indent for it with Sir John Jernyngham, Osbert Moundeford and Thos. Townesend. Westm., 5 Dec. 37 Henry VIII.
Modern copy, pp. 2.
5 Dec. 937. The Privy Council to Gardiner, Thirlby and Carne.
R. O.
St. P. x. 759.
The King has seen their letters of the—— (blank) desiring to know (1) whether anything should be altered or added to the articles sent by them, (2) whether to stick precisely to the number 1,000 in the 6th article and (3) whether the 24th article shall stand as it does. Albeit these points are answered by former letters despatched before the arrival of theirs, the King again answers that the articles and instructions already sent shall be followed. As for the marriage, they must first get the Emperor's Council to propone what they will offer with the woman before the King can resolve upon the jointure.
As to the letters and articles sent hither by "you, my lord of Westm. and Mr. Kern, touching the matters of th'intercourse," the particular consideration of them will require time and need not delay "th'eclarisshment" of the treaty of perpetual amity, the King thought that the Emperor's Council were satisfied with the agreement for discharge of burdens laid upon subjects of either Prince contrary to the treaties of intercourse.
Draft in Pet re's hand, pp. 3. Endd.: M. to my lordes of Winchester and Westm., etc., v  Decembris 1545.
5 Dec. 938. Otwell Johnson to John Johnson.
R. O. London, 5 Dec. 1545:—Business matters. You shall not be charged with any money but the 40l. which I took of Nicholas Bacon for 20 Jan. next. My brother Gery's boy who was visited with the plague at my being in his house died on Sunday last, "and so I am altogether at home in Lyme Streat again. Let God do his pleasure with me; and yet, I pray you, do not think that I despise your writing, wherewith you persuade me to have some honest circumspection to myself. No, not so; but as the case is, I have none other refuge but home to mine own, where I trust is no danger for me."
Hol., p. 1. Add.: at Calleis. Endd.: "aunsweryd by mouthe at Lo., etc."
5 Dec. 939. Anthony Cave to John Johnson.
R. O. i. Copy of a letter from Cave to Mr. Leigh, asking him to let Johnson, "a towards young man," purchase fells at Calais which belonged to Mr. Conny, dec. Tickford, 5 Dec. 1545.
ii. Tickford, 5 Dec. 1545:—Business matters, in which he mentions Ambrose, George Graunt, T. Flecton, the Haerlemners, death among sheep, the aforesaid matter with Mr. Ligh, Rumbold Reyner, Olter Blason, Victor Meawe and T. Holland. "Mr. Smyth writes me that our ambassadors and the Frenchmen's have met and cannot agree."
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: at Callais. Endd.: "aunswerid by mouth, etc."
5 Dec. 940. Sabyne Johnson to her Husband, John Johnson.
R. O. Glapth[orne], 5 Dec. 1545.:—Domestic affairs.
P. 1. Add.: at Callais.
5 Dec. 941. Paget to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., x. 753.
This afternoon Laplanche arrived, declaring how he lately sent me a letter in his credence from Mons. de Longueval and was now come to declare the credence before returning to Court. I asked if Longueval had ever since remained at Ardre. He answered no, "and therewithal plucked me a letter out of his bosom from the Queen of Navarre," which he delivered with commendations from her and Madame Destampes, and declaration of their desire to bring about peace; for, if those who wrought to join their King with the Emperor prevailed, they who were against the Pope were ruinated, and if they could compass a peace, these Papists (the Admiral, Turnon, and the Secretary) "be sent to the Devil headlong." And here he showed what an opinion the French king, Doulphin, Queen of Navarre and Madame Destampes had of me, and the honour it would bring to me, and other gay words "(as he hath tongue at will)," with commendation of your wisdom and activity in this war wherein the Emperor left you, "and that these ladies knew that, whatsoever war had been between your Majesties, yet, neither of your hearts were bitterly wounded against the other." I answered "that I had of long time known these two ladies to be of great virtue and wisdom, and of their own inclinations given to godliness," and that I could not deny that I had always borne special affection to France, and no man was sorrier that the French king gave you occasion for war, and I saw not why peace should not be easy, resting as it did only in Boulloyn and the Scots. Relates verbatim the subsequent conversation, in which Laplanche wished that Boulloyn were bulla in mari, since both Princes insisted on having it and this peace was France's only hope of deliverance from the tyranny of Rome; and Paget said that, howsoever he had been affected to France, he had seen so much falsehood in the Scots as to think it best to leave the King alone to scourge them, and hinted that the Admiral, Chancellor and Secretary had gone to the Emperor to "seek adventures." Laplanche thought that the Emperor tossed the ball both to France and England and would end by deceiving both; that embassade was sent because hope was given of better success, but Longueval had got them revoked and Madame Destampes prayed Paget (if she might put the King in hope of Boulloyn) to command her, and thought when peace was made there might be an interview. Paget answered that Boulloyn was out of the question, and, being pressed to suggest other means of peace (and Madame Destampes, who desired the honor of making it, would assist therein), said "Let us enjoy Boulloyn and Boullonnoys, pay us that you owe us and assure us of our pension;" he would not add "Render Guyen and Normandy and more too." Laplanche asked him rather to devise something reasonable; and he replied that, as Frenchmen were naturally born to devise, he would hear him; he allowed that Sturmius had told him somewhat (and recited the overture). "If Madame Destampes," quoth Laplanche, "can bring the King to that, she will think herself the happiest woman in the world." And went on to show that when peace was made she trusted that Paget would do his best to continue and establish it by devising to take away these occasions for renewing war; she desired to know whether Paget would have greater personages to join with him in making peace, such as herself and Longueval. Paget answered that, until it came to the point, Laplanche or Sturmius sufficed well enough, and if peace came God should have the glory of it. "Well," quoth Laplanche, "I go to the Court this night. Will you command me any service?" "Make my humble commendations," quoth Paget, "to the Queen of Navarre, Madame Destampes and Monsr. de Longuevale." "And why not," quoth he, "to Monsieur, who desireth this peace no man so much ?" "To him too," quoth Paget, "if it like him t'accept the same."
Laplanche then made Paget promise to show the Queen of Navarre's letter to none but the King, and "neither to Emperor nor to ambassador"; and he promised to deal therein better than she did with the letter he sent to her from Flanders, of which she sent a copy to the Emperor. Laplanche explained that Morret carried that letter straight to those from whom she would have kept it secret, and they brought it to her with the answer ready devised; and he asked Paget to write her a word or two. Did so and herewith sends the copy, together with her letter, and a copy of it "better written, because it is hard reading of her hand." Suggests that Mr. Peter should ask Tolorge, who had the carrying of Paget's letter, whether he himself delivered it to the Queen of Navarre. Begs to be instructed against Sturmius's return on Wednesday night. Calays, 5 Dec. 1545. Signed.
Pp. 8. Add. Endd.
942. Margaret Queen of Navarre to Paget.
R. O.
St. P., x. 757.
Thanks God for setting these Princes on the way to this happy peace, of .which she learnt by La Planche that Paget is one of the ministers. Assures him that she and Madame d'Estampes act together in promoting it; and that La Planche, who is of her own upbringing (nourriture) is to be trusted. If Paget's first letter had been delivered by as sure means she would have made a freer answer. If Paget's king is not too us reasonable, she hopes for a real amity; for, by their influence, the King her brother will be found more than reasonable. She prays God to bind these two hearts in one, to exalt His holy name in order that, without idolatry, He alone may be honoured as God in Heaven and on Earth.
French. Hol., mutilated, pp. 2. Endd.
R. O. 2. Contemporary copy of the above in the hand of Paget's clerk.
French, p. 1. Headed: Copie of the quene of Navarres l're to me. Endd.
5 Dec. 943. Paget to the Queen of Navarre.
R. O.
St. P., x. 758.
The Seigneur de la Planche has given him her letter, by which he perceives the affection which she and the duchess of Estampes bear to the reconciliation of these two Princes. Knows that no person in all France can do so well in that affair. Will do his part. Calais, 5 Dec. 1545.
Will, as charged by Laplanche, keep her letter secret from all save the King his master.
Fr. Copy, p. 1. Endd.: Copie of Mr. Pagettes l're to the Quene of Navarre, v  Decembris 1545.
5 Dec. 944. Paget to Petre.
R. O. Sends an advertisement from Garbrand, of Lisle, confirming a former report. Is, with Mr. Treasurer here and Mr. Man (and also my lord Deputy and the Council here) busy trying out what John Wootton, late treasurer at Guisnes, has done with the King's money, who has acted very falsely and conveyed much money into England to his own use. His clerks will confess nothing, and Paget means to send them thither in custody. Some special act should be made upon his lands; for it is here confessed that he sent into England above 1,000l., but 3,000l. or 4,000l. is still unaccounted for. His wife should also be examined.
One captain Medelyn has been here in prison these nine or ten months, and nothing proved against him. Is begged by the Council to write for his deliverance. This night my lord Gray and all the horsemen are gone to my lord of Surrey. Thinks that it is for some enterprise upon Estaples. Commends Mr. Manne's service in these matters of account and also, with Mr. Bren, in the musters. Commendations to my good lady your wife. Calais, 5 Dec, late in the night, 1545.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.

Footnotes

  • n1. Turcovalente.
  • n2. December 13th.
  • n3. Apparently an enclosure in Mont's letter of the 7 Jan. 1546.
  • n4. Nov. 29th.
  • n5. December 7th.