Henry VIII: December 1526, 1-10 | British History Online

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 4, 1524-1530. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1875.

'Henry VIII: December 1526, 1-10', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 4, 1524-1530, (London, 1875) pp. 1184-1198. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol4/pp1184-1198 [accessed 29 April 2024]

December 1526



Cal. D. X. 53. B. M.	2674. [CLERK to WOLSEY.]
	* * * Emperor without the which p ... possible, ne for the Emperor, ne for ... fully to any such thing. And ther[upon the said] ambassador shall declare what offirs ... justify all his demeanor with the Emper[or] ... thereby first that the lords of Almayn ... the Emperor is in the blame, and not he ... have any evil mind toward the Emper[or] ... they will be nothing the more favora[ble when] they shall know in him such obstina[cy] ... ly he thinketh that his ambassadors sent ... this visage, shall have opportunity to t ... treat particularly upon other matters, h ... that the marquis of Brannynbergh ought ... crowns sithens the last election. He shewy[d us also] that the Emperor would not have his brother [king of the] Romans, if he might choose, and that done ... did attempt this thing besides the Emperor's ... which is a thing very hard to be bel[ieved] ... is as much as to any purpose was ... communication." Poissy, (fn. 1) 12 ...
	P. 1, mutilated.
Cal. D. X. 58. B. M.	2675. [CLERK to WOLSEY.]
	* * * shall show specially [of his m]aking war [for] the reco[very] ... misliked not that .. [but they demanded] of us whether this pension myg[ht hereafter be] bought out, giving therefore a ... money at one or at divers [times] that this should be ... ard ... sum of money upon the ... of ... except the said pension might be rea ... and redeemed by money or else some oth[er way] we said we knew not the King's pleasure ... Finally touching this matter, they dem[urred] saying that we demanded this pension [should be paid] immediately upon the King's decease to h ... and that they have a certain sum of mo[ney to] pay all ready by years, what and the [King our] master (quod Deus avertat) should die [before the] said money w[as] all paid, whether ... it was meant that both sums sh[ould be paid] yearly together, saying it should [be hard] for them to pay both, we say[d that we had] none instructions herein, but th[at] ... they should find * * * ... us if they would ... ion of a fote of grou[nd] ... should open a window and ... [We answered the]ym again the best we could, and [told the]ym that in effect the demand was ... [th]ey [sai]d that ye might fortify Arde a ... well [forti]fied should keep Boleyn [and] ... a grea[t pa]rt of that frontier in sub[jection]; and after many words and reasons upon [both] sides they took off their caps both of them, [and] desired us for the passion of Christ to speak [no more] of that matter, assuring us that we sho[uld speak] but in vain, for it was against their l[oyalty], and the King their master would never be [persuaded] thereunto, and the nobles would tear and p[ull out] their beards with their nails rather than opy[n a] window that one fote of ground should be [taken away] from the crown. We still stuck fast, and [said that] we had no commission but upon that condition. And from that they came to the salt, and ... [th]ey said also that they saw great ... he ... more that they said t ... [prat]iques was a * * *
	Pp. 2, mutilated.
1 Dec. R. O.	2676. CHARLES V. to WOLSEY.
	Has received his letters by Dr. Lee. Thanks him for his advice. Dr. Lee will inform him of what he has done in consequence, and what answer he made about Wolsey's private affairs. Granada, 1 Dec. '26. Signed.
	Fr., p. 1. Add. Endd.
1 Dec. R. O.	2677. JOHN HACKETT to [WOLSEY].
	Sent with his letters of the 24th two little books of the new translation in English. (fn. 2) Sends now three volumes as they come from the printer's house. The printer is a dweller in this town, as Hackett has shown the margrave and chancellor of Brabant, who have a commission from my Lady to execute this business. Has promised the Margrave and scowt "a particular pleasure" if they do their devoir. Antwerp, 1 Dec. 1526.
	Hol., p. 1. Endd.
2 Dec. Cal. B. VI. 420. B. M. St. P. IV. 460.	2678. SIR CHRISTOPHER DACRE to LORD DACRE.
	The earl of Angus did not come to Coldstream on Wednesday or Thursday, the 28th and 29th of November, as he may perceive by the Earl's letter enclosed. Has appointed the 13th and 14th of December. Does not believe he will be there. Gares, who is at Edinburgh, came on Friday last. The Scotch Parliament began 12th Nov., continued to the 27th, and is prorogued to the 8th Jan. All have left Edinburgh. The Queen was met at Corstorphyne, in a small company, two miles from Edinburgh, Tuesday, Nov. 20th. The King and the Queen rode through the town to the palace. "The Queen lyes in the chambre where that the Duke lay, and the King lyes in the chambre above her, all in a lodging. The King is a-mynded not to lye far from her, nor he will never be frome her excepte he be owder hunting or sporting."
	The lords Cassilis and Avendale are in the hands of Arran and Sir James Hamilton, to ransom at their pleasure, with others of the West of the party of Lennox. Lindsay and others of the same party are in the hands of Angus and George Douglas, to whom the lands of Carr are forfeited. Rynyane Creghton, who was in the keeping of Dumlangrig, has agreed with him and is restored. Buckleugh is respited, and was in Lithguo on Sunday, to the great displeasure of the Carrs. The bishop of St. Andrew's has leave, but refuses to come to court "unto he see the court changed of an odre fashone." He has given to Arran the abbey of Kilwynnyng, to Angus 2,000 marks Scotch, to George Douglas 1,000, to Archibald Douglas and Sir James Hamilton the same. His kinsman, the abbot of Arbroath, has been all Parliament-time at Edinburgh.
	Drurye, a monk of Murouse (Melrose) Abbey, has got the bulls for the same, to the great displeasure of lord Maxwell, whose brother will thus lose it, though by an Act no Scotchman may procure a benefice from the Pope without the King's licence. Neither the earl of Argyll or Crawfurth were at the Parliament. The laird of Laughenbarr (Lochinvar), who slew the laird of Bondbye in St. Giles's church door, goes up and down at his pleasure in Edinburgh, to the contempt of all justice. If the Queen remains with her son, the court will have a turn. The King loves not Angus or Arran. Gares, the bearer, will tell him more. Norham, 2 Dec.
	Postscript.—" My Lorde, I beseeche your Lordship to speke with maister Chaunceler for som amendment of this housse, for of my fedelite ther is never a chambre but it doys rayne in it, hall, kitchyng, ne odre." Signed.
	Pp. 3. Add.: "To my lord Dacre," &c.
[2 Dec.] Vit. B. VIII. 169. B. M.	2679. ITALIAN NEWS.
	"[Pin]alosa missus fuit ad Pontificem et [Cardinales] a Vicerege cum literis credentialibus. Ego omnino [puto quod] ad aliquam conventionem deveniet cum Vicerege ... quod secreto id faciet, dumque illi dicerem quod in ang ... scripserat nominc ejus Sanctitatis, quemadmodum decr[e]verat usque ad ultimum resistere, et quum plus no[n] posset aufugere Venetias, nunc vero tractaba[t] de concordia." To this he answered that his flight would do no good.
	The Pope will come to an agreement if he can, and he has sent the Neapolitan ambassador to the Viceroy as a mediator. Thinks the Pope has been advised that the French king and others will be induced to do more if he gives up his neutrality (si se eximat ex medio), for Francis will not be able to practise with the Emperor, as the latter will not care for him when he has the Pope on his side. Understands that his Holiness has also been told that as soon as he concludes with the Emperor, he will get as much money as he desires from Casale, Monte and others, and that he will be able to supply the Viceroy if he is in want.
	Tells the Pope continually to beware of any agreement, but he hears as if mute and deaf, and says nothing but that the French king will only give words, and three months have passed since he said that he could do nothing more without help.
	The Imperialists will have no power of restraining the Colonnese from injuring his Holiness.
	The French king is said to have offered 2,000,000 g. cr. to the Emperor to satisfy the king of England. The Emperor will not consent, but means to do what the Pope wishes. He intends to divide the duchy of Milan between Bourbon and duke Francisco, the former to hold Milan; and he hopes the Pope will help him in this. His Holiness will ruin himself if he makes a separate peace. It is to be feared that the Viceroy, knowing his timidity, will gain access to him; and he is already deliberating what to do if the Germans come. Tells him he must by all means entertain them for a month, for the Imperialists are few and needy; and the Viceroy, who will not be able to get money from Milan as easily as from Lombardy, will change his purpose.
	* * * "regis et ex illius bonis verbis, sed ... Sanctitatem admonuit ut nullo pacto illis verbis cre[dat] sed ut vicissim bona verba det et suæ secur[itati] undique prospiciat, id quod se facturum dixit s ... destituitur viribus quas oportet." Told him to be careful, for if he made a separate peace or truce he would have no more help, either from England, France or Venice.
	Does not think the Italians can be prevented from making peace with the Emperor unless the French king assists them with a large number of Swiss, or the king of England enters the league.
	They see by experience that they can do nothing against the Emperor. If he had those 20,000 cr. now, he would not give them to the Pope without a promise not to enter any treaty with the Viceroy at least for a month. The Florentines are enrolling 6,000 foot for their defence.
	Pinalosa says that the Viceroy, at his departure from Cartagena, received letters from the Emperor, saying that he took very ill the outrage by the Colonnas, and all the Imperialists said that the disasters at sea were a judgment for the plunder of the Church.
	Vannes' hand. Lat., pp. 3. (The date is from a pencil endorsement.)
2 Dec. Vit. B. VIII. 171. B. M.	2680. ITALY.
	* * * "regis ver ... concordanda cum sua S. cui Cæsar e ... devotissimus. De rebus vero Mediolanensib[us] Cæsar contentabatur ut remitterentur in d[uorum] judicio, quorum unus per S. D. N., alter vero [per] Cæsarem assignaretur, et quod Vicerex primo ne ... cum Pontifice concordare, postea componere fe[dus] universale, dicti vero judices judicarent, utrum dux Mediolani errasset necne. A Venetis autem et ab Italis nihil aliud in Italia que ..."
	The Pope replied to Penalosa that the Vice[roy] must come to him, or else he must send to the Viceroy. Exhorted him in the King's name to make a universal peace; which may be hoped for if he holds out for a month. If, however, the Pope wishes first to settle his private affairs, the writer does not see how matters can succeed well. The Pope has fortified Bologna, Modena, Parma, Florence, and Placentia.
	His Holiness says that this treaty with the Viceroy will be made by force, and he will keep it like that he made under compulsion in the castle, if assistance is provided to free him from slavery. The Colonnas are said to be enrolling soldiers, so that their forces and the Viceroy's will amount to 12,000 foot.
	" * * * Colum[na] ... allegans eum fuisse creatum p[er simoniam] ... se fundat in bulla Julii, quæ continet quod ... Cardinalis citare potest pontificem creatum per simoniam; quæ bulla videtur admodum valida. Cavet enim quod si a Pontifice, ut ab alio ejus nomine, offerantur pecuniæ, dignus sit privatione."
	Lat., pp. 2, mutilated. In Vannes' hand.
2 Dec. Vesp. C. III. 237. B. M.	2681. LEE to HENRY VIII.
	The despatch of the post will not allow him to write at much length. The Emperor has received the King's letters with great joy, and is sending secret instructions to don Inigo. As the ciphers were deciphered in France they are fain to alter them, "which is a strange dealing, if it be true." Inigo's detention in France has much injured the common affairs, as they will not now send their secret instructions by Ichingham. Does not know what they will do. The Emperor desires the King will obtain Inigo's release, as he will not entrust his determinations to any other. Hopes the King will find all as well disposed as the Emperor. Told the Venetian ambassador it was not convenient, as he proposed, to have these matters discussed in France. Heard from the French ambassador that he was ready to conclude with the Emperor for release of the King's children. Objected, that it would hinder the conclusion of the peace, and that the Emperor is ready to leave. Will hear more by Ichingham. It is thought the Emperor will send an army to Constantinople. Granada, 2 Dec.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.
2 Dec. Vesp. C. III. 291. B. M.	2682. LEE to WOLSEY.
	Before the arrival of the King, the master of the posts, by the appointment of Alaman, had received 1,000 ducats upon the pension of Palance. He has offered to pay it to Lee at any hour. But as the other 1,000 will come shortly, due at Midsummer last, that it may be paid in a lump sum, "I forbear to make to your Grace by exchange these 1,000 ducats already received." Thanks Wolsey that he is permitted by a warrant to Mr. Wyat to receive his diets out of the money, thus saving the rate of exchange. For 100 days, beginning the 27 Nov., the sum will be 600 ducats, "which is more than my diet 33s. 4d.; the which the prior of St. Mary Overy's, to whom I shall send the warrant for Mr. Wyat, shall pay, to make the whole sum to your Grace."
	On asking John Almain how much was due to him of Wolsey's pension, he answered "he would nothing take of your Grace under name of pension." I told him I used the word pension, having no better to express my meaning for Wolsey's benevolence towards him. He said he intended better service towards your Grace than calling in a little money.
	Since then I have received your letters empowering me to sue for the arrears of your pension due for Tournay, and offering Almain 500 ducats for his service in the affair of Toledo, and for the 9,000 ducats due for Tournay 500 ducats yearly, and, if he can attain the whole arrears, 2,000 cr. I have been secretly advertised that the Emperor had given orders that the pension of 9,000 ducats should be paid, and should be augmented by 6,000 ducats, and it was once in parole to give you as recompense for the whole the bishopric of Burgos, worth 18,000 ducats. Consulted with Almain how the arrears of the 9,000 ducats might best be obtained. He replied that the Emperor had instructed Mendosa and Button that your Grace should have them secured on the best crown lands in Spain. Promised him in general terms that he should be rewarded if the thing succeeded. On my telling him that I would speak to the Emperor, he said it was not needful, for he would do all, and have letters sent to Inigo and Button.
	In communication with the Emperor, at which De Pratt was present, the former said that your Grace had deserved well of him "for the good handling of this business between the King and him." Hereupon De Pratt greatly commended you, and said it was necessary for the Emperor's welfare to entertain you, and that his Majesty should see your pensions better paid. Has spoken with the abp. of Toledo, who refuses to pay your Grace's pension unless he sees your bulls. I told him this looked like rigor, not to pay except he were constrained; and that your Grace marvelled he would make such frivolous excuses, as he knew that the Emperor had appointed this pension on his bishopric. He said he could not pay it without express authority from the Pope, that his conscience will not let him, and that there is no mention of it, as you say, in his bulls. As he is ready to pay on proper authority, thinks that Wolsey should send the transumpts. Hears that there is a reservation in his bulls of 10,000 ducats, to be disposed of as the Emperor shall appoint. Intends to apply to have Wolsey's dues paid out of that sum, so that when the matter comes before the Emperor, the Archbishop's "ignorance pretended shall be discussed, and his conscience discharged." The bishop of Palance has now promised that this Christmas pension shall be paid in March, and the pension for Midsummer at Christmas.
	Details a long conversation he had with Almain for Wolsey's pensions on Tournay. He estimated the arrears at 40,000 ducats, and wished to have a full account sent. I said nothing, as I was not aware what arrears might be due to you. Urged him again to receive an annuity for his pains, but he refused to be considered a pensioner. I said to him, smiling, that he thought 200 ducats was too small a reward. I then told him your proposition that for the recovery of your spiritual pensions on Toledo and Palance you would grant him 500 ducats yearly, and a like sum for the recovery of the others. "Here he yielded, only answering, it is too much; but I will not take it as pension. No, said I, but as reward and liberal gift." I offered him also a further reward of 2,000 crowns for speedy payment within two or three years. "He promised his best, and said not nay." Granada, 2 Dec.
	Hol., pp. 7. Add.: To my lord Legate's grace.
2 Dec. Vesp. C. III. 295. B. M.	2683. LEE to [WOLSEY].
	Has sent by Ichingham other letters touching his credence from the King and Wolsey. Sends now by this post, "which cometh by sea," a copy of the Emperor's answer touching his credence, which is but general, the particulars being answered in the secret commission and instructions given to don Inigo. Is informed they are so large and clear, that they cannot but satisfy the King in all points. The Emperor could not entrust any one but don Inigo with matters of such weight, and prays Wolsey, if he be not yet arrived, to write letters for his deliverance, and ask the King to do the same. The Emperor accepted Wolsey's credence so joyfully, thankfully and lovingly that at one point, viz., "that your Grace upon your knees, &c., he could scant refrain the tears." He said, in answer, that he took Wolsey for his friend and father, and would always be guided by his counsel. Excuses the briefness of his letter. His clerk has been compelled by illness to go to England. Has persuaded them to send the secret commission not only by this post but by Ichingham, "which after this post is like to depart for writing of the ciphers again." Granada, 2 Dec.
	Hol., pp. 2.
3 Dec. R. O.	2684. CHARLES V.
	General commission to don Inigo de Mendoza to treat for a universal peace in compliance with the wish of the king of England. Granada, 3 Dec. 1526.
	Lat., copy, pp. 5. Endd.
3 Dec. R. O.	2685. JOHN CASALE, the Prothonotary, to [VANNES].
	The fleet of the League, thinking it would do well to keep the enemy from Genoa, forced them into the port of St. Stephen, near Piombino, in the Siennese territory, than which they could have chosen no better place to injure the Pope. They landed, as he will see from Sir Gregory's letter, of which a copy is enclosed; Sienna furnished them with victuals; and they can either march to Rome or Florence. If to the former, they will obtain the aid of the Colonnas and of the 6,000 foot chosen for Naples; if towards Etruria, the Germans will assist them. Urbino's hindrance of the Germans from crossing has benefited the Spaniards. Everything succeeds with the Emperor, even when he is asleep. These Germans, joined with the Viceroy, will amount to 25,000 foot, besides a body of cavalry at no expence and artillery. The duke of Ferrara will help them, and they will get money from every city. He can imagine the Pope's state of mind now, when he feared these Germans when they were in Germany, and these Spaniards in Spain. He has sent the general of the Friars Minors to excite their compassion. There is now real cause to apprehend that he will not persevere.
	Fears the inconstancy of the Pope even more than Sir Gregory does. Has always suspected his Holiness of an understanding with the Imperialist ambassadors, more from terror than fraud, since the day he saw that the League was not successful. Thinks that, if there has been any intelligence, it proceeded from don Hugo without the knowledge of the Colonnas; for if so, the destruction of many lands under the Pope's rule (where but a very small part of the domains of the Colonnas lie) would inevitably have taken place. It is not to be believed that the Pope would be so imprudent as not to take advantage of the truce, and wait till he saw how Italian matters would succeed, and what would be done by the Germans who he knew were coming, and by the Spanish fleet. It is not likely he would wish, the Colonnas being thus destroyed, to break a truce on account of the French king, who has offered him 60,000 cr. in three months, and the king of England, who has only given him 25,000 in one portion. Sir Gregory's letters will show how ill the Pope thought of these offers.
	It was necessary to do something against the Colonnas, to vindicate the insult to the Church, with the consent of don Hugo, who cares solely for the Emperor's profit. The Don perhaps wished only to frighten the Pope, but the Colonnas to take him and plunder the Church, even against the Don's wishes. Sir Gregory does not believe this, and the Prothonotary scarcely suspects it; but they wish to tell him everything. Fears rather that the Pope will make some truce with the Imperialists; for if he had no previous intelligence with them, and broke the treaty to their injury, how could he negotiate with them? Would it not be safer for him to shut himself up in some fortified city, or go to Venice? He would not be safe in any city of his own; and he could have no access to Bologna, as the Spaniards hold the roads. Anything would be better for him than to trust to their good faith.
	Went this morning to the Senate. Guicciardini has written from Modena to ask them to order Urbino to cross the Po, as the Germans have done so, and are approaching the Papal States; he has also asked the marquis of Saluzzo to come to him from Milan with the French troops. They have ordered the Marquis to cross with 500 lances and 3,000 or 4,000 French foot, and they will send 10,000, partly of those paid by themselves and partly of those paid by the French king, including 3,000 formerly under John de Medici, who has died of his wound. Urbino will return to Milan; that is, to the country above the Adda. The Doge said that he knew the King and Wolsey were well disposed to Italy, but that now they require real help. The Italians and the French are not strong enough to carry on the war alone. No peace is to be hoped for from the Emperor; for even when his affairs were in danger, and he seemed ready for peace, he was really preparing new forces. Everything will now shortly be in his hands. The Doge promised that they would do all they could, and told him to write to England for help. They seem hopeless at Rome. Does not know what the Pope will do. Sir Gregory continues to look to everything.
	Wolsey is right to dissemble in concert with the French, and with them devise the best remedy for defeating this monarchy (in monarchia hac fugienda). The Viceroy has always urged it on the Emperor, and sown hatred in his mind to the King and Wolsey; and it is not likely he will consent to have the matter arranged by them. He hates the French king for deluding him, as well as the Pope and the Italians; and he will rather endeavor to subvert everything, provided he can bring them into subjection to the Emperor. The Pope will stick to the confederates as long as he can, but Casale fears that the Viceroy will compel him not to assist in expelling the Spaniards, or perhaps even to help them. Venice, 3 Dec. 1526.
	Sends his brother's letters, omitting the account of the sea fight, in which there were many mistakes.
	He says he cannot write himself to Vannes.
	Postscripta.—Quoniam decet omnia Dominis suis significare, nullorum amicorum habita ratione; Vicelegatus qui istic pro Pontifice moratur petens a me cur R. D. Legatus misserit Auditorem in Hispaniam ad istam pacem; ego respondi, Quoniam erat idoneus, et ut etiam Pontifici satisfaceret dum personam S^ti suæ gratam mittit. Quomodo gratam? respondit ille, Nonne scitis vos tempore Adriani quomodo res processerit? Ego etsi scirem negavi et dixi, Nonne est gratus Pontifici si ab eo mittitur pro suis negociis secretis? Ipse respondit, Quid pro secretis negotiis? Missus est a Pontifice pro rebus Turcharum; et dixit se putare Pontificem eum principaliter mississe ut ab Urbe eum removeret, quoniam non videbatur conveniens nec ad rem facere ut unus qui tam gratus et tam conjunctus esset amititia cum Cardinali Colunnensi et factionis Senensis caput et auctor, tantique Regis orator, et cameræ auditor, quod ofitium est in Urbe maximi momenti isto tempore in Urbe degeret: ipse ideo vult intelligere hanc fuisse honestam renegationem quamvis, ut illius Regis et reve^mi ratio haberetur, omnino aliquis erat mittendus. Aliqua alia a me super his petiit: An eadem de causa in Hispaniam esset missus quoniam non videtur idoneus; Capoanu[s] enim et Foglieta et alii multi qui rebus Cæsaris favent, dum vivebat dux Sessæ, ex quibusdam causis quas alias ad vos scripsi eum oderunt, ita quod ejus gratiam apud Cæsarem minuent. Dixi me hoc non putare. Tamen ad vos volui scripsisse."
	Hol., Lat., pp. 9. The passages in italics are in cipher. Endd.
R. O.	2. Decipher by Vannes of the passage in the body of the letter.
	Pp. 3.
3 Dec. R. O.	2686. WARHAM to WOLSEY.
	Thanks Wolsey for having expressed himself favorable to the continuance of his mint, as he is informed by the prior of Christchurch and Ewyn Tomson, the bearer, keeper of his mint. Tomson consulted Amadas, who advised Warham to obtain a bill from the King, according to the enclosed form. Did not wish to do so before knowing Wolsey's pleasure. If Wolsey intends to have similar bills for his mints at York and Durham, will ask for one for Canterbury. Knoll, 3 Dec. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: To, &c. my lord Cardinal and legate de latere.
4 Dec. Vesp. C. III. 296. B. M.	2687. LEE to HENRY VIII.
	On the 26 Nov., the day after Ichyngham's arrival, delivered the King's letters to the Emperor, and declared his credence; all which he took "much joyfully," especially the King's desire for the public tranquillity, "which he avoweth himself more to desire than any other wealth or health that he may have in this world," and, knowing the King's impartiality, he has no fear to put himself in his hands. Forwards the general answer he has made in writing. As to the particulars of my credence, he has sent large commissions to Mendoza to give you satisfaction in all points, and hopes, if the latter be still detained in France, that you will procure his deliverance. He says you would have known much of his mind long ago but for Mendoza's detention, so that it is not his fault things are so protracted.
	Was asked by the French ambassador about the answer he had received from the Emperor. Told him the Emperor had sent a commission to England to treat and conclude before the King as mediator, so that if other princes did the same there need be no sending to and fro. People here do not think the French king will send a like commission to his ambassador in England; and when Lee spoke about it to the ambassador here, he answered, "that he had now commission to conclude for his master's particular affair," i.e., deliverance of the children, declaring that his master would never forsake the League of Italy. It is hard to believe the report of enemies, but some things I hear seem to show the French king has little trust in you. Was told by my lord Chancellor, in presence of the Nuncio, that the French pretend don Inigo was detained because he had a commission to treat with England for delivery of one of the French king's sons to Henry. Trusts the King may find as much towardness in the others as in the Emperor. The French ambassador doubted if the Venetians would accept the four months' truce.
	One Cornelius, (fn. 3) who was with the king of Denmark in England, now being here, predicts some great business in Italy about Our Lady's day, the Conception, now at hand. He has gained much credit by the fulfilment of former predictions. "Doubtless he is in the judicials of astronomy the most excellent young man that ever I have known. He is not yet 26 years old. He told afore of the French king's taking, and the day, as my lord Chancellor told me; he told the Viceroy afore his departure that he should have danger of fire in one of his ships, which followed." He says the eclipse that will be on the 10 Dec. signifies mortem magni sacerdotis. "God only knoweth certainly what shall follow, who turn all things to good that otherwise, by the influences, may be dangerous; and He turn his ire and grievous hand from us, and send your Highness continuance of prosperous health!" Granada, 4 Dec.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.
4 Dec. Vesp. C. III. 298. B. M.	2688. LEE to WOLSEY.
	Refers to his letter to the King. Hopes Wolsey will be content with it, as he has no help of any writer. The French have deciphered Inigo's instructions, for there is an Italian in France who can decipher any cipher. Urged the Emperor for secret instructions to be sent by Ichingham. They would give no answer to his instructions, but refer all to don Inigo; and as the instructions contain the Emperor's profoundest thoughts, he would not commit them to any other. He heard my credence gladly;—said that he knew your Grace had furthered the King's good mind towards him,—" that it well appeareth that his good friend had the devising and penning of the King's so kind and gentle letters, and that your Grace should not call again to remembrance any things of times past, which he now perceiveth were otherwise than they were taken, and that he hereafter will evermore love your Grace as his loving friend and father," &c. "And at the point of your Grace's credence that on your knees, &c., I assure your Grace he changed colour as a man yielden and relented, and scant could contain his tears. He is of good nature and tractable, and inclinable, and as I perceive so be all his council inclinable," &c.
	Declared your mind to De Pratt according to the clause of the Duke's letter. "He was the most glad man that I have many days seen." He said that during his life he would be true hearty servant to the King and you, and there was no country to which he owed so much as England. There is nothing, he said, went so near his heart as your's and the King's displeasure; so nothing made him more glad than to be restored to your favor. He is here in great favor; never out of the Emperor's privy chamber, except time of council. It is thought he will be chancellor. He is going to Flanders. "Like it your Grace that I may know your pleasure, whether I may comfort him to come by England." Thinks a little letter to the Chancellor, who is all the King's, would be advantageous. Count de Nassau also favors the King, "but somewhat abhorreth from council." Thinks he should have a letter of thanks. A servant of his, named Antoine, some time steward to the Bastard Emery, had a pension from the King of 100 cr. per annum, which is now restrained. He professes his willingness, however, to serve the King, even if he is deprived of it. As he desires the continuance of the King's pension, thinks he should have it. Strongly recommends the bearer for his great diligence and pains. The Emperor will, doubtless, long to hear from the King, but when the messenger arrives he will be at Valladolid in Castile. Granada, 4 Dec.
	Hol., pp. 5. Add., To my lord Legate's grace.
4 Dec. R. O.	2689. LEE to HENRY VIII.
	The bearer is a gentleman of Don Ferdinando's, who intends to return to his master through England. Writes the more willingly in his favor "because of the princelick and most gentle and honorable entertaining of me and other your Highness' ambassadors at our being with him." Granada, 4 Dec. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.
4 Dec. R. O.	2690. THE SAME to WOLSEY.
	To the same effect. Granada, 4 Dec. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: To my lord Legate's grace.
4 Dec. R. O.	2691. WOLSEY to the ABBOT OF ST. MARY'S, YORK.
	The King has written to bid him pay certain sums to Magnus, for the interception of outlaws. He must deliver also to Leonard Musgrave 100l. for the earl of Angus. Westm., 4 Dec. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.
4 Dec. Lansdowne MS. 203, f. 198. B. M.	2692. LORD LISLE.
	Confirmation by Arthur Plantagenet, viscount Lisle, lieutenant of the duke of Richmond, lord high admiral, of the privileges granted to the corporation of Rochester from the time of Henry I. London, 4 Dec. 18 Hen. VIII.
	Modern copy; Lat.
5 Dec. R. O.	2693. JOHN LALEMAND to WOLSEY.
	Has received two letters from him, which he has read to the Emperor. His Majesty takes great pleasure in hearing of Wolsey's affection for him, and has perfect confidence in him. He is now sending a dispatch. Wolsey will do well to give him advice sometimes, and to employ himself about the universal peace. Refers him to Dr. Lee for news. Granada, 5 Dec. Signed.
	Fr., p. 1. Add.: Monseigneur le Cardinal et legat d'Angleterre. Endd.
6 Dec.	2694. JOHN DOWMAN, LL.D.
	His will, 8 Nov. 1526. Proved, 6 Dec. 1526. Printed in Nicolas' Testamenta Vetusta, p. 623.
6 Dec. R. O.	2695. CLEMENT BROWNE to WARHAM.
	Has received the Archbishop's letters and decree for security of his pension, with a general acquittance for dilapidations. Cannot recompense his kindness. Has resigned his benefice of Aldermary before Thos. Bartlett, the archbishop's secretary and notary. Hopes the archbishop's chaplain (fn. 4) will have equally good security. Requests the Archbishop to alter the instrument of his resignation at his pleasure, and Bartlet will sign it; also to conceive a procuracy for Master Herynge and others to act for him. Byddynden, 6 Dec.
	P. 1. Add.
6 Dec. R. O. Ellis, 3 Ser. II. 54.	2696. WARHAM to WOLSEY.
	Understands, from Dr. Benet, Wolsey's chaplain, that he wishes to have one Clement, a bass singer of the Archbishop's chapel. Sends him accordingly. There is not in his house a better ordered person. Knoll, 6 Dec. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: My lord Cardinal of York, and legate de latere.
7 Dec. R. O.	2697. WARHAM to LORD ROCHFORD and SIR HENRY GOLDFORD, Controller of the King's Household.
	When he was last at Lambeth was desired by the King to ask Wolsey to take the examination of John Ambrosse, of Cranebrok, prisoner in the Fleet, or else remit him to Warham as his ordinary. Spoke to the Cardinal accordingly, who desired that he should be remitted to Warham; which is not yet done. Urges him to move Wolsey in the matter; for if he be guilty he should be punished; if not, it is pity to keep him in prison so long. Knoll, 7 Dec. Signed.
	P. 1. Add. Endd.
7 Dec. Calig. D. X. 2. B. M.	2698. [FRANCIS I.] to _.
	* * * ien ... discours qui vous ont este faitz ... [tan]t par le roy d'Angleterre mon bon f[rere, que par] le cardynal d'Yorc mon bon amy, et pou[r] ... vous y respondre et satisfaire comme ... commenceray à vous dire que congnoissa[nt de plus en] plus la bonne, grande et parfaicte amy[tie que mon dit] seigneur roy d'Angleterre, mon dit bon pere, [et le Cardinal] mon bon amy, m'ont jusques ici portee et porte[nt et] l'ouverte demonstracion que journellement ils [ont] faict et font," you are first to declare to them the obligation I feel towards them, to beg their continuance, and to assure them of my confidence. You shall then say "que en ce qui peut t[oucher a] la paix universalle et pacifficacions des ... qui peuent estre entre l'Empereur et mo[y, il n'y a] prince en la Chrestiente par la main ... jaye tant desire et encores desire ... et passent que par la syenne s * * * ... mon bien et celluy de mes ... [seu]rement garde et conserve comme ... ont monstre et monstrent, me donnant ... conseil de la forme et maniere que jay ... depuys madite delivrance avecques ledit Em[pereur]."
	Nevertheless, they know of the summonses that have been sent to the Emperor to enter the League, and the conditions therein, and that, to satisfy him, sufficient powers for treating have been sent to the French, Papal, and Venetian ambassadors in Spain, that the Emperor may plainly declare his intentions, "parquoy on pourra de brief faci[llement] ... ledit en * * * ... nes chascun aura sa rais[on] ... prandre autre voye ne moy[en] ... ne se pourra faire, et que ledit Emp[ereur] ... et ny vouldra entendre." Will be content, for the above reasons, that the affair shall be settled through the king of England and Wolsey. This will show them his confidence in them. Will agree to nothing to Henry's prejudice, but everything treated between them shall be kept, "combien que si ledit Em[pereur] ne change de voulente, et quil nayt a ... au bien de la Chrestiente, et obvier a ... apparente ou elle est prouchaine ... in ny remediera * * * ... ay point sceu que pour cho[se] ... Empereur ait rabaisse ses haultes ... [dem]andes, et quand aultrement sera on le p ... ce qui viendra des responces qu'il fera [aux dits am]bassadeurs," which, when they come to his knowledge, he will forward to be declared to the King and Wolsey, that they may do what they think fit.
	His kingdom and frontiers are in good order. On Saturday news came from Italy that the lansquenets, who were going to the help of ... met on the mountain 1,000 light horse and 800 "hacquebutiers de la ...'" but the result of the skirmish is not known. * * *
	Hears that 16 galleys, those of the Pope under Messire A[ndrea Doria], [his own] under the baron of St. Blancq ... and those of Venice, had attacked the Spanish [fleet] coming out of Carthagena to go to Naples, had sunk some, taken others, and put the rest to flight. Expects more detailed news, and will forward it; "vous advisant, au demeurant, que ... appres a donner provision au faict de mesd[its] ... et a preparer ce qui est requis et necessa[ire, non] seullement pour les conserver et deffen[dre, mais aussi] pour offendre mes ennemys et mesmemen[t] ... ensuyvant ladvys de mondit bon frere ... rompre du couste de la * * * ... [m]onstre audit Empereur et ladite ... s satisfieray entierement à tout, pria[nt Dieu qu'il] vous ait en sa garde. Escript a Sain[ct Germain en] Laye," 7 Dec."
	Fr., mutilated, pp. 6.
7 Dec. Vit. B. VIII. 172. B. M.	2699. [GIBERTO to GAMBARA.]
	Sent a copy of his last letters, of the 27th and 29th, by way of the Swiss and Saona.
	Now that the [Ger]mans have penetrated into the States of the Church, and the Viceroy has arrived with his fleet at the port of St. Stefano, nothing can be added to their miseries. Will be ruined if princes friendly to the Pope do not send assistance. When he last wrote heard that the Viceroy had landed at St. Stefano, whence he can attack either Florence or Rome. News came that he had landed no men, and that the fleet had gone to Gaeta, whither the Pope sent the General of the Order of St. Francis to discover his intentions, and to make the same demands which he had already made in the Emperor's name. [No] answer has yet been received, but a message sent that they will go to Naples to consult about the Pope's affairs, and then return to Gaeta; and they desire the Pope to send a messenger to say whether he has power to conclude peace or truce for the other confederates, and, if not, whether he will conclude alone. Yesterday he replied that he had authority to conclude a suspension of arms, for the Venetians agreed with him, and he thought the French king would be contented with it; but that a treaty of peace required more time, and he would try to obtain the assent of the other allies. Are waiting for the Viceroy's reply, which will probably be a refusal of peace, or such conditions that it would be better to suffer anything rather than consent to them. Sees that the Pope is well disposed to do nothing except with the consent of the allies and by the advice of the King and Wolsey, and to defer agreement with the Imperialists as long as possible. The necessity is extreme, and he is forced to accept what conditions he can get, but he does not wish to give himself a prey to his enemies, and desert his friends. He thinks it would be better to fly from Rome. They will not sleep in the kingdom of [Naples] as long as these negotiations continue. The forces on the frontier are increased, and the Colonnese threaten that they [will do] worse things [to the Pope] than they have done already. Throughout Rome property is being carried into the houses which are considered safest.
	The Germans were at Guastalla, and expected to come towards P ... If they had come to Bologna or Toscana, which were badly fortified, they would have thrown everything into confusion. It was thought that the duke of Urbino would follow them across the Po, and keep them back; but after the wound of Sig. Giovanni (fn. 5) his ardour cooled. Giovanni had his leg amputated, and died on the 30th. The Germans have now crossed to this side of the Po. The marquis of Saluzzo will, however, cross with his forces to defend Parma and Piacenza, whither the Venetians have sent 1,000 foot. Know what to expect from their friends, for when the Pope was shut up in the castle nothing but words came to him from any one. Have not yet received the 25,000 [cr.], as the bearers are afraid to cross the sea. There is no news of Renzo or the French fleet. The duke of Ferrara has given money and artillery to the Germans, and also to those at Milan, that they may go out freely. The Pope has ordered ten or twelve galleys of the fleet to go to Genoa, and the rest to remain at Civita Vecchia. Count Peter of Navarre has gone with a commission from the Pope to defend Florence against an unexpected attack of the Germans.
	Lat., pp. 5, mutilated.
Lettere di Principi, II. 20.	2. The same, in Italian. Rome, 7 Dec. 1526.
8 Dec. R. O.	2700. JOHN CASALE, Prothonotary, to VANNES.
	Wrote last about the straits affairs were in, owing to these Germans, and the landing of the Viceroy's fleet in the territory of Sienna. Sends a letter from his brother about the Pope, and the sailing of the Viceroy towards Naples. From the promises of the Imperialists to his Holiness, many fear that he will procure some composition or trace, which he would not do if left alone, since the effect would be, not to stop the war, but to increase it, as the Imperialists, seeing the Pope on their side, would be easy victors; but the victory would ultimately fall on his own head, nor could he hope for further aid, either from France, England, or Venice. Many, therefore, think he would rather make a truce with consent of Venice, France, and England; but if he thinks this expedient and necessary he would probably inform his allies of it, so that, even if England refused, they could scarcely draw back, and during the truce a universal peace could be treated for, with the Pope for arbiter. It is certain peace could not be made without a previous truce.
	The Germans and those marching against the Pope have returned towards Milan, and are at Stella, near the Po. Urbino has left Malatesta's forces at Cremona, and gone to Soncino to speak with the marquis of Saluzzo.
	There is no further need of the Marquis going himself to assist the Pope's cities, but they will deliberate where to stop the Germans from joining the Spaniards. Asked the Doge what he thought about the Pope. He said he did not think matters so desperate; but no dependence is to be placed on what they say here, as they never speak openly of their plans. If the Pope continues to resist, they will stand by him, but if he yields, they must also. The expence is becoming very heavy, and he thinks they are dissatisfied with their generals; and therefore a truce now would be advisable, as the Imperialists are the more powerful, and it is impossible to storm cities in the winter. The Emperor has tried to do all he could. If a peace did not follow the truce, the Italians would be able to reassemble their army; but the Emperor would not, probably, as he enlisted his Germans, and raised the money for them, by pretence of a war with the Turks. Thinks the best plan would be a truce, and then a treaty for universal peace to be settled by the King and Wolsey, which would be just, as they have assisted neither side, nor been at all suspected. If peace cannot be obtained without continuing the war, would wish the King to be concerned in it, either by money or by name, because then no confederate could, without breaking his faith, commence any treaty without the express consent of the King and Wolsey, and the Emperor would be more likely to name them judges of peace, seeing they are armed, and that nothing could be done without them. If the Emperor then sees that he can treat with the States alone, he will not care about England. It is no use telling the French king that we are his allies, and he can make no peace without us, when he can make no peace without us, when he can answer that he is not able to urge war any longer, and we will not help him. Already they are flattering the Pope, and asking him to be arbiter. Thinks that his Holiness will certainly prepare some composition. Venice, 8 Dec. 1526.
	Lat., hol., pp. 4. The passages in italics, cipher deciphered. Add. Endd.
9 Dec. R. O.	2701. LAURENCE GYLLYS to CROMWELL.
	Sends commendations to Cromwell and his wife. Sends a barrel of white herring. Is agreed with Jas. Thomas and Mathewe, but the woman's name was wrong in the subpœna. Her right name is Gertrude Cornelys, and she is in debt both to him and his brother. Calais, 9 Dec. Signed: Lawrens Gyllys, chaunceler.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: To his right worshipful Master Cromwelle thys letter be delyver at London.
10 Dec. R. O.	2702. JOHN BLAGGE.
	Acknowledgment by John Blagge, grocer of London, that he is in debt 596l. 3s. 10½d. Fl., or 397l. 9s. 3d. stg., for various spices bought at Antwerp on the 9th November, and 5th and 10th December, 1526. Amounts and prices given in Flemish money:—mace, large, at 19s. 8d. per lb.; others at 16s. 6d. and 14s. 6d.; cloves, 9s. 6d.; cinnamon, large, 7s. 8d., and others 5s. 4d. &c.; "graynns," 2s. 6d.; pepper, 2s. 4d.; verdigris, 12d.; ginger calico, 22d.; nutmegs, 4s.; almonds, 3 balls weighing 1,084 lb. (each?) at 18s. 6d.=10l. 6d.; rice, 2 bags weighing 680 lb., at 13s.=4l. 8s. 4d.; "galls row," 2 bags weighing 641 lb., at 48s.=15l. 1s. 3d.; ressons of corans (currants), 2 butts, at 36s. the cwt.; "varmeland," 21d. per lb., &c.
	Pp. 3. Endd.: Katherine Loyno.