Henry VIII: February 1532, 1-15

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 5, 1531-1532. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1880.

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'Henry VIII: February 1532, 1-15', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 5, 1531-1532, (London, 1880) pp. 367-381. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol5/pp367-381 [accessed 18 March 2024]

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February 1532, 1-15


[Calig. E. I. II.?] I. 35. B. M.
767. Francis I. to Henry VIII.
Has received letters of the 23rd of last month from the bishops of Paris and [Auxerre], his ambassadors at Rome. Despatches the sieur de Pommeraye, his maitre d'hotel ordinaire, to England, to explain their contents.
Hol, Fr., mutilated, p. 1. Add. : "A mon myeulx ayme frere, cousyn, et perpetuel alye, le roy d'Angleterre."
2 Feb.
Nero, B. III. 115. B. M.
768. Thos. L[eghens] to Cromwell.
Had procured a messenger with a horse to send his letters to the King and Cromwell, but on returning from the king of Denmark to Hamburg found that he had been unable to leave in consequence of the frost. Delivered the King's letters to the people of Hamburg on Jan. 31, and the following day replied to their objections, and declared to the Senate what English goods had been taken. Is waiting for their answer, and for that of the king of Denmark. Desires him to show this to the King. Hamburg, "in festo Purificationis Beat Mari, quo candelas accensas non videbam, satis tamen clara dies."
Hol., Lat., p. 1. Add. : Egregio viro Thom Cromwello, uni ex conciliariis Sermi Domini Regis Angli. Endd.
3 Feb.
R. O.
769. Ric. Wharton to Cromwell.
Your letter was delivered to the parish priest of Wyssett on Candlemas Day. He received it very strangely, and on an answer being required said that my lord of Norwich gave him commandment to receive the tithes. He refuses to pay any money to the King, or to me for the King's use, though I urged him not to displease you. Further answer he will not give but as my lord of Norwich bids him. If you will issue a process to bring him before you, I will have it served. Without it he will continue his crafty delays. Bungay, 3 Feb. Signed.
I thank you for my great cheer and supper when I was last with you.
P. 1. Add. : Right worshipful. Endd.
3 Feb.
Simancas MS.
770. The Divorce.
Extract of a letter from Rodrigo Nio, Imperial ambassador at Venice, to Mai, dated 3 Feb. 1532.
The English ambassador has been very urgent with the Signory to send some professors of Padua to Rome to support the King's cause. The lords have asked me what to do. I said they had little occasion for my opinion, as they were so wise; but they urged me much, saying they did not desire I should give it as the Emperor's ambassador. I told them I thought they had nothing to do but to stand to their determination not to allow any of the professors to meddle with the matter, but I had no commission to speak with them on the subject. They said their Ambassador had written to them that you said you had no orders about the doctors of Padua. I said I thought so too, because you were so great a lawyer and knew so well the justice of the Queen's cause, that their coming would be of no consequence. They showed me a schedule (poliza), written by Sanga to the Venetian ambassador, saying that the English ambassador has urged the Pope to order the Signory to allow the professors of Padua to go to Rome to help the King. The Pope replied, that, as far as he was concerned, they might go if they liked. Accordingly the Signory have determined to entertain the English ambassador with words, and not to order their professors to go unless the Ambassador engages them as advocates.
Sp., pp. 2. Modern copy.
Ib. 2. Nio to Charles V.
To the same effect, but rather more explicit. Same date.
Sp., pp. 3. Modern copy.

R. O.
771. John Rugge to Will. Frende.
Thanks for your manifold kindness. I wrote on Friday after my departure by him that carried my stuff, requesting you to take care of what I left behind, and call on Mr. Mayor at Christmas for my quarter's stipend, out of which you may pay yourself what I owe you. I have a little black book in my chamber, containing a treatise called Meditationes Ideot, a treatise of the Four Evangelists, and one on Paul's Epistles. It is a book with a black "sorel," no clasps, but silk strings. I would have it for my friend's pleasure. Please send it by bearer, and get Rob. Pryor to deliver you three horse locks and a pair of iron fetters which were not brought to Reading with my stuff. I wrote to you my mind about my hay. Please look among my books for one called Jacobus de Voragine. "He is but of small volume, and is sermon matters." It is in two parts,the one De Temporali, the other De Sanctis. The latter I have here, but if the former be not with you "he is lost in the carriage." I hope Mr. Arch[deacon] will now be more favorable to me than he was about the chantry of Ferryng, especially if you talk with him. If I cannot get it with his favor I will get better men to speak therein to his great rebuke. Reading, 3 Dec.
Hol., p. 1. Add. : To Master William Frende in the close of Chichester.

R. O.
2. John Rugge to Wm. Frende.
Sent a letter to Sarysbery at Twelfth Day market to be delivered to Mr. Molens, within which he enclosed one to Frende. Doubts whether it has been received. Asked him to be his proctor in case of any visitation. If he cannot do so, asks him to get some one else to take the office. Sent him in the last letter the copy of the collation of his (Rugge's) prebend, my lord's dispensation for non-residence, and the confirmation of the chapter for both. Asks him to send by the bearer a little black book in his chamber, without clasps, but bound together by black ribbons. In the beginning there is a "trease" called Meditationes Ideot, and after that the sayings of all Four Evangelists pertaining to one thing collected together, and so likewise of Paul's Epistles. Had also two books of sermons of Jacobus de Voragine, one De Sanctis, the other De Tempore. The former he now has, and is not sure whether the other has been lost on the journey or left in his chamber. In the same letter desired him to help to bring to an end the controversy between Mr. Arch[deacon] and me. Reading, 3 Feb., "by your abby lover, Jo. Rugge."
Hol., p. 1. Add. : "To his worshipful master, Wm. Frende, in the close at Chichester."
5 Feb.
Wake's State of the Church, App. 218.
772. Convocation Of York.
Appointment by Brian the dean and the chapter of York, of Lancelot Collyns, treasurer of York, Will. Clyfton, subdean, and Will. Clayton, doctors of decrees, and Will. Moke, A.M., prebendaries, Thos. Tashe, LL.B., auditor, and Thos. Marrer, bachelor in decrees, custos of the fabric, as their proctors in the Convocation to meet at York, Wednesday, 7 Feb. Chapter house, 5 Feb.
5 Feb.
Vienna Archives.
773. Chapuys to Charles V.
Received yesterday letters from the queen of Hungary about the acceptance of the day for the intercourse. Went accordingly to ask the King to agree to Dunkirk or Bourbourg instead of Gravelines, the former places being more convenient for the assembly, and to give power to the deputies to determine all differences. The King received me very pleasantly, and said that he would reply after consulting with his Council. He then went on to speak of the news he had had from Rome about the Turk, and, after exaggerating the danger, said that the peace of Christendom depended on leaving the Vayvode in peace, as he had heard from Rome that the Turk offered peace or truce for any time, if the Vayvode was let alone; and the Vayvode's secretary said the same, who had been sent to the kings of France and England to ask them to intercede for peace with the Emperor and the king of the Romans. The Vayvode had intended to send ambassadors, but the king of the Romans would not allow them to pass, which was very ill considered, to provoke such an enemy for private interests. Said I was sure your Majesty would postpone your own interest for the good of Christendom, as you had done in Italy with the Venetians and the duke of Milan, to whom you had given up an estate of greater revenue than the kingdom of Hungary, or almost any kingdom in Christendom. He said that you had employed very ill what you gave up to the Venetians, for it was they who gave advice to the Turk, and solicited his coming; and as to the duke of Milan, you did not think he would live so long, considering his illness. He said this, laughing, putting his hand on my shoulder several times. Showed him the contrary, saying that I hoped the Emperor would send such an answer to his letters that he would know that there was no prince in the world who had greater desire for the good of Christendom. He said he had heard from his ambassador at the Imperial Court that the duke of Wirtemberg had reconquered his country, and that the Lutheran princes of Germany were in arms, and had held a diet at Lubeck or near, which the ambassadors of the Turk and the Vayvode attended. He thought you would not do much good at the diet of Regensbourg, which was too much inclined to the Pope. He said that the discord between the principal sovereigns was the cause of the Turk's boldness, and other evils. Some from covetousness, others from ambition, and others for pleasure, wished the world to be managed according to their fancy. To which I answered nothing, as he spoke generally, and I had already justified you. He said that he was entirely occupied now with the Parliament, and hoped to put the kingdom in good order. He approved of the ordinances lately made by your Majesty, but they were of no use, as they were not observed. This seemed to please him much.
The Landgrave's servant, of whom I have already written, has returned, and his secretary has now come. Asked the King what news he brought, but he said he had not yet seen his letters.
Six days ago the King was talking at supper of the long stay of the bishop of Winchester, and complained that the king of France, in deference to the ecclesiastics who governed him, would not listen to any scheme for bringing the Pope to their intentions. One of the company said that the Chancellor was the best man among them, as he had always supported the King's quarrel, and said the Pope could neither condemn the King nor try the cause. I hear that the Bishop was charged to negociate a new treaty in case there was war with Scotland; but he did not meet with such an answer as he wanted. The Ambassador just sent is ordered to consult the universities which he passes, "et a ceste cause il a pour ce le conseyl et chancellier de France." The King says the other ambassador was revoked at his wife's request. London, 5 Feb. '32.
Fr. From a modern copy.
6 Feb.
R. O.
774. Sir Will. Percy to Cromwell.
I desire your favor to Adam Olyver, the bearer, who is exposed to the malice, of Sir Marmaduke Constable. I send you the 10l., which I pray you to accept in full of this year's rent ending the feast of St. Martin 23 Hen. VIII. I will send the rest hereafter, though I have much trouble by the said Constable. Bushopburton, 6 Feb. Signed.
P
. 1. Add. : Receiver general of attainted lands, and of the King's Council.
6 Feb.
R. O.
775. Sir John Mablisteyn to Sir Giles Russell, Commander of Badisford and Dyngley.
As to the matters which you wish preferred at this Parliament, my Lord (fn. 1) does what he can. If we had money enough they might be brought to pass, but without great plenty, nothing here passeth. Has heard nothing from the religion since the enterprise of Modon. There is news from Missena that the old great ship was burnt by misfortune at Malta. Hears from Rome that the Turk has the strongest army ever heard of, in the sea Mediterraneo and by land, to attack Hungary next summer. It is supposed he will attack Malta to revenge the displeasure done to him at Modon last summer, whereof men say it would have been better not to have tempted such enterprise than to have rendered it so soon again. Thinks they do not consider the mighty power of the Turk. London, 6 Feb. Signed.
P
. 1. Add. Endd. : R. the 7 day of February 1531.
7 Feb.
Add. MS. 5,387, f. 245. B. M. St. P. VII. 338. Pocock, II. 182.
776. Henry VIII. to Clement VII.
Has accurately read his brief dated 4th ult., showing the Pope's great anxiety respecting the preparations for the Turk. Has never hitherto neglected what will contribute to the defence of Christendom and the Holy See, and would have been glad if his previous services had been more adequately rewarded. Repels the insinuation of the Pope that he would attribute the fault of whatever evil should happen to the King and other Christian princes if they failed to assist him. Greenwich, 7 Feb. 1531.
Lat. Modern copy.

Vit. B. XIII. 189. B. M. Pocock, II. 213.
777. [Benet and Casale] to Henry VIII.
Have resorted to the old man (card. of Ancona). Promised him promotion and benefices from the King, which he refused as savouring of corruption. Benet thinks that he did so because he brought no benefice in hand, and he thought they only intended to deceive him. He has promised to befriend us in the Rota, and the better to secure him we asked him what he would require. After many excuses he asked that we should promise him promotions in the Church to the yearly value of 6,000 or 7,000 cr. and the next vacant bishopric, and that you should use your influence to obtain the abbey of Ferris, now vacant in France; and until the performance of these, some jewel should be deposited with him of great estimation, because, when it is known by the Imperialists that he espouses your cause, they will endeavour to strip him of all his promotions. They agreed to his terms, and think that if he could obtain the vacant abbey in France, he would require no greater security. Had very great difficulty in bringing the old man to the pass to which we have brought him, because he is very suspicious; the young man (card. of Ravenna) also desires promotion. His authority in the Court here is so great that it will counterpoise all others.
Cipher, deciphered, mutilated. Add.
7 Feb.
Vit. B. XIII. 149. B. M. Burnet, IV. 174.
778. The Cardinal Of Ravenna.
Promise of Wm. Benet, in Hen. VIII.'s name, to procure for Benedict Henry cardinal of Ravenna some monastery or ecclesiastical preferment in France of the annual value of 6,000 ducats, and the first bishopric vacant in England. Also, that if the bishopric first vacant be not Ely, he shall be translated to that see when vacant, if he desires it. Rome, 7 Feb. 1532.
Hol., Lat., mutilated.
7 Feb.
R. O. ym. XIV. 430.
779. For John Alyn, Archbishop of Dublin.
General pardon as late chancellor of Ireland, and commissary of cardinal Wolsey. (See Grants in February, No. 10.)
Draft, pp. 11, large paper.
7 Feb.
Camusat, 174 b.
780. Bishop Of Auxerre to Du Prat.
Since writing, has presented his letters to the Pope about the affair of the king of England, according to the advice of Dr. Benoist, the English ambassador. Finds the Pope disposed to please the King, but he is so pressed by the Emperor and his people, and the majority of the cardinals of his faction, that he will not likely do anything good unless by dissimulation. Writes to the King about the Pope's answer, which could not be better if the result is like it. Believes he would do it if he dared.
Fr. Headed : A Mons. le Legat, du 7 Feb. 1532.
7 Feb.
Camusat, 174.
781. The Bishop Of Auxerre to the Cardinal Of Tournon.
Since writing last, nothing of importance has happened. Are expecting a man from king John of Hungary, who, it is believed, will remit the dispute about Hungary to the Pope, the king [of France], and the signory of Venice. The English ambassador, who had lately returned to England, arrived here on the 3rd, with letters from the King, the Legate, and the cardinals of Grammont and Lorraine. Yesterday the excusator of the king of England protested against the wrong done to him, and demanded leave to have advocates from Bologna and Padua, which could not be decided at the first Consistory. The king of England is very badly treated. Has great need of Tournon here. The card. of Trivulze has arrived, who, he hopes, will do much for the king of England.
Fr. Headed : A Mr. le cardinal de Tournon, 7 Feb.
7 Feb.
Camusat, 175.
782. The Bishop Of Auxerre to Montmorency.
Has received his letter by Dr. Benoist, the English ambassador, with those from the King and Cardinals there to the Pope and Cardinals, about the English affair. Presented the King's letters this morning after the cardinal Freneze, who is the oldest cardinal, and entirely on our side, and the cardinal of Ancona, who is next in seniority and altogether imperialist, and the English ambassadors, had all spoken about this affair. They were with the Pope more than three hours. The Pope's reply, after reading the letters, was very satisfactory. He said he was very sorry that he had to determine this case, knowing that he would only get displeasure from both sides. He desired the Bishop to tell the King that the matter had been in his hands for four years, and he had not yet touched it; that if he could do what he wished, he wished what they did. Believes he meant what he said. He said also that he was surprised at the Bishop's urgency in the matter. Replied that his master wished to show the Pope that the friendship of these two kings was such "que les affaires de l'un estoient plus que les affaires le l'autre," of which he ought to be very glad, knowing that if he had one at his devotion he had the other. He said he would tell the English of this, so that they might let their master know. Yesterday, in Consistory, the English doctor who is here from the country and not acknowledged by the King, stated the wrongs that were being done to England; that a king ought never to be summoned out of his kingdom, and that he could not get doctors or advocates from Bologna and Padua. If they would give him the means to have such doctors, not merely the most esteemed, but those of the lowest degree, he would discuss the question in a public audience. It was decided that an answer should be given him at the next Consistory. The cardinal of Osma proposed that it should be tomorrow, but it will not be until the first Monday in Lent. Will act with diligence according to the advice of the English, whom he will help as if it were to gain Paradise, as it is the King's wish. Most of the cardinals are adverse, but some shall be influenced by fear, others by promises and hope, and others by being preached at.
Fr. Headed : A Mons. le Grand Maistre, du 7 Febvrier 1532.
7 Feb.
Camusat, 174.
783. The Bishop Of Auxerre to Cardinal Grammont.
Has today presented to the Pope letters on the affair of the king of England from the King, the Legate (Du Prat), and the cardinal of Grammont. The Pope would willingly do all they ask if he dared or could. The Emperor's agents are so urgent that half the time the Pope is forced, against God and reason, and the opinion of part of the Imperialist cardinals, to act according to the pleasure of the cardinal of Osma (Mons. Dosme), contrary to the opinion of the cardinal of Ancona and Mr. de Vale. Wants the cardinal of Grammont here, for no one dares to speak out to his Holiness. Has not yet presented the letters to the Cardinals, for he did not receive them from Dr. Benoist (Benet) till last night.
Fr. Headed : A Mons. le card. de Gramont, du 7 Febvrier.
8 Feb.
Camusat, 176.
784. The Bishop Of Auxerre to the Grand Master.
Le chevalier Casal, who is Bolognese, asked him to write to a doctor of Bologna to come hither and plead. Would not do so, because the Emperor, of whom the doctor is a vassal, had forbidden him to come on pain of death. It would have been a disgrace to his master if he had written coldly; and the English would have complained of it. If he had written an urgent letter the doctor might have sent it on to the Emperor, and the Imperialists might have made use of it to damage the cause with the Cardinals. This is all the English have to complain of. Has done all he could for them. Has received them at his house, and often spoken to the Pope about their affair, better than they have done themselves.
Fr. Headed : A Mons. le Grand Maistre, du 8 Febvrier 1532.
8 Feb.
Vit. B. XIII. 147. Pocock, II. 174.
785. Ghinucci and Benet to Henry VIII.
After the return of Benet, as the Consistory drew nigh, which would put an end to our plea for delay, we found our adversaries active. They urged that the letters of the excusator were not equivalent to a commission, and therefore he ought not to be admitted. We pleaded for time. The matter was much debated by the Cardinals, but as Ancona was not there, no decision was arrived at. Learnt this from De Monte. Give an account of the points under debate. Advise the King to send fresh letters to supply the defects of the former, and will do what they can to delay the discussion. Has sent for lawyers from Bologna and Sienna. Rome, 8 Feb. 1532.
Lat.
8 Feb.
R. O.
786. Lord Edmund Howard to Cromwell.
Thanks him for the pains he has taken in his suit to the King. Is sorry the King will not give him a licence for wines. Has neither father nor mother alive, and none of his kin will help him. Wishes Cromwell would get him an annuity of 20l. for 20 years out of the revenues of Calais, to pay his debts, otherwise he will be in danger of the laws, which he will not disobey. Owes 400l. to two creditors, who will be content to take 10l. a year each, for 20 years, if made sure of it in case of his death; but has no lands to secure it on. Calais, 8 Feb.
Hol., p. 1. Add. : To Mr. Cromwell.
8 Feb.
Calig. E. III. 41. B. M.
787. Lord Berners and the Council Of Calais to [Henry VIII.]
* "... de of a warde ... the Lantorne gate and Beauchamp [Tower] ... the dyke and also sithens the same ... said wall on the south side is fa[llen, and more] will fall, which must needs be [taken down from tower] to tower, containing 189 foot in ... the same of necessity ought to be a ... up with speed, yet Wm. Lambert said ... here hath made relation unto me [your Highness's] deputy and other of your Council tha[t there is not] wherewithal to do the same, for the money [delivered by] your vice-treasurer, by virtue of a w[arrant to him] directed, bearing date at Ampthill th[e 11th] Sept., (fn. 2) for such money as rested in y[our said] treasurer's hands upon his accounts for [the year ended] at Michaelmas, the 22nd year of your most [gracious reign], is clearly spent and employed, so that witho[ut] ... there can nothing be done, wherefore your sai[d] ... with your master mason and carpenter hath ... made a book of all such works now known [to be of] importance to be renewed and made, over and b[eside the] works yet in hand, and not all finished, as [in the said] book is expressed, but also have viewed an[d judged] what sums of money shall suffice for the sa[me work, by] estimation, as well for the town and castle a[s also] for the gates and wharfs, which book your H[ighness] shall receive closed in these, beseeching your G[race to] take the same in good part, and that it may pl[ease the] same to grant out new warrants directed [to your] vice-treasurer for delivery of such sums of [money] as may serve for the same, or otherwise as it sha[ll] please your Highness. Also, I, your Highness deputy, [with] other of your Council here, have viewed and ou[erseen] the state of all your ordnance and artillery within [the] house of ordnance here, as well that which is in th[e] charge of Sir William Skevington, knight, as also [in the] charge of George Browne, which we do find in ... ruin and decay, and many things needful [and] requisite to be repaired, specially the same whic[h] * * * ... des and what shall ny ... yng to that your ordnance and artillery [in the char]ge of Sir Wm. Skevington, knt., his [son Leo]nerd Skevington being at London now, [has a bo]oke made of the same, which our trust is your H[ighness] hath seen or this, and will take order therein [as] shall please your Grace." Calais, 8 Feb.
Signed : John BernersEdmund HowardE. RyngeleyCrystofer Garneys, SirSir Ric. WhettehyllWillm. Sympson.
Pp. 2, mutilated.

Calig. E. III. 77 b. B. M. Chron. of Calais, 123.
788. Repairs [At Calais].
* ".. aghe in the midway ... gate and Becham tower, conteyn ... foot, whereof is fallen down ... hollow that which must be taken ... the least by estimation that is all ...
Item, another ward of the south side of ... which is the fifth ward from Devylyn to[wer] ... fallen down, and must be taken down from [tower to] tower containing in length 189 foot ...
Item, the wharf from Searcher's tower to the ... the sluse in Paradise, containeth in length c ... foot, which is fallen and falling down w ... remedy must be new made.
Item, the wharf before Lantern gate, co[ntaining] in length 286 foot, is down, and ready [to fall] down, and must also be new made, or else th .. ... will approach Lantern gate.
Item, the head between both stairs before Lantern gate, and also the pier that standeth in the Fisher's gate, must be new made also."
Item, the charge for rebuilding the walls of both wards which have fallen, and are to be taken down, will be above 200l., beside stone, bricks, and the King's own masons * * * "so far the great rag[e of the sea] comyth suddenly and often, so that ly ... cannot be well had now. The carpenter ... esteemeth it will spend 600 or 700 tons of ty[mber], every ton 6s. 8d. st., with the fraught and carya[ge], summa 233l. 6s. 8d. st."
Item, the iron works will be above 200l. Item, the sea clay, which must be digged at the flow mark without Newham bridge, and carried to the town in waggons, will be above 100l.
Item, all the money delivered by Robert Fouler, [vice-]treasurer, to Wm. Lambert, the surveyor, in accordance with a warrant, dated Ampthill, 11 Sept., ordering him to deliver the money in his hands for his [account] for the year ending Michaelmas 22 Hen. VIII., is now spent, and new warrants must be sent. There are other works not finished, as the sluice without the Water gate, the utter ... at Rysebancke, and within the town at Mylkegate ... Devylyn tower, with the two wards adjoining ... syde, with their mount and platform. Also "sewing" and mending Mr. L ... bray with hard stone, and mending the see [walls] with see turf and burras.
* * * ".. st with one round ... of the platform in the top ...
Item, the second bridge of the ... the drawbridge and the herse t ... from the ground.
Item, the bridge between the dong[eon and the] castle to be new made or amended a ...
Item, the dyke of the dungeon and the ... to be cleansed and new cast, and to be am ... where as appeareth to be need, and also t ... to be amended round about in all places ... where need is."
Item, the wall of the base court roun[d] ... to be repaired.
Item, the wall between the two watch tow[ers, which] is falling down, must be amended.
Item, the Shaking tower on the north-east corner [of] the said castle to be taken down and brou[ght] up again with both the wards on the n ... of the same castle to be amended.
The casting of the dike of the castle will cost 100l.
The estimate of these other works of the castle will amount above cccc ..
Mutilated, pp. 3.
8 Feb.
R. O.
789. S. Vaughan to Cromwell.
I have sent to you Thos. Avery, and as you were pleased to put him to me to be taught and brought up in the knowledge of things meet for his age, receive him again as the firstfruit of my rude education. If he were neglected, the sap would be spilt, and the flowers lost that might spring hereafter. I will come home shortly, but must first go to Brussels, and will see how I can rid your spermaceti. Barrughe, 8 Feb. 1531.
Hol., p. 1. Add. : Right worshipful,in London.
8 Feb.
Add. MS. 28,584, f. 197. B. M.
790. Muxetula to Charles V.
P.S.Dr. Benet, the English ambassador, has arrived, but seemingly brings nothing but the usual delays.
Has spoken to the Pope, who seems determined to conclude the matter. At the next Consistory, which will be held on Friday next, they will hear what the English have to allege, without granting more delay. The Pope has promised to give a decision.
The French ambassador has been this morning to see the Pope, with letters from his master, asking his Holiness not to declare against the excusator; for if he do so, he sees that the king of England will renounce obedience to the Pope and the Church of Rome. Spoke about this to the Pope, showing him reasons for acting. Thinks he keeps his previous resolution. Rome, 8 Feb. 1532.
Sp., pp. 3. Modern copy.
9 Feb.
Add. MS. 25,114, f. 1. B. M. Pocock, II. 184.
791. Henry VIII. to Gardiner.
Has received his letters of the 27th and 28th Jan., touching the King's proxy sent to Rome by Mr. Bonner, complaining also of his delay in obtaining communication with Francis, and the receipt of the letters by Cromwell. Approves highly of his intelligence, but on deliberation with the Council has not thought it necessary to alter anything in his proxy, and defers the declaration of his further pleasure until Gardiner returns, or some objection is made at Rome; for though it is not sealed, the one sent at Easter last, being sealed, is sufficient, and before they proceed further they must give notice of objection. Perceives by conversation with Mons. de Pomeray, the French ambassador, his master's good will, that the injuries sustained by Francis at the Emperor's hands are still fresh in his remembrance, and he seeks to work the Emperor displeasure. He is to tell Francis how satisfied Henry is with this report, and thinks it will turn to the good of Christendom. In despair of achieving his purposes, the Emperor is resolved to agree with the German princes in all their articles touching religion and reformation, and is laboring by large promises "to the intent that they, by [not] resisting the election of don Ferdinando, and otherwise not defacing his glory, may hereafter be compelled to bow to his will." Henry thinks that Francis should therefore exhort the Princes to resist, and not relent; for this would be to their eternal reproach. He is to endeavour by all means to prevent their union with the Emperor without the express consent of France and England. If he is not already departed, Paget shall be despatched by the French king. The duke of Wittembrige has recovered his dukedom; of which the King has not been advertised, which is the more remarkable as he must have owed it to Francis. Wishes to know by whose means he has recovered it. Don Ferdinando and John king of Hungary have referred the title of that realm to the determination of the king of Poland, and put two strongholds into his hands. Sends a copy of his letter to the king of Poland, to be shown to Francis, recommending him to make such an end therein as shall be for the quiet of Christendom. Has also received letters from Andrew Corsyn, secretary to John king of Hungary, now repairing to France. Sends two other packets for the English ambassadors with the Pope and the Emperor, to be shown to Francis; and Gardiner is to add anything to them that he shall think proper. Has received by Pomeray the bp. of Auxerre's letters unto the French king, and his answer, touching the subsidy for the Pope against the Turks. Gardiner is also to procure a portrait of our said good brother's person, "in that form and favor as it now is, specially considering that few years do always change a man's countenance," and of his children; "which to behold shall be always unto us great rejoice and comfort." Greenwich, 9 Feb.
P.S.Paget arrived with letters on the 8th, but this despatch was sent before an answer to those by Paget, which will be sent in two days, that he may be able to act in the interval.
Pp. 9. Add. : To, &c., bp. of Winchester, principal secretary. The date and postscript are in Wriothesley's hand.
9 Feb.
R. O. St. P. VII. 339.
792. Henry VIII. to Ghinucci, Benet, and Casale.
Has received the Pope's brief of the 4th Jan., touching the Turk. Believes it is only a vain rumor.
Would think otherwise if the Emperor would convert some part of his great wealth to the defence of Hungary, &c. against the enemies of Christ, and the Pope would show himself a little more earnest in deciding the controversies, and ours especially, now before him; for if this were done, all would concur, and there would be no need of exhortation. But now, as the Pope and the Emperor maintain a great army in Italy, and are indifferent to the Turk, this threat of the Turk's coming is ridiculous. Moreover, the Pope, without informing the King, has deprived John king of Hungary of his royal dignity, and excommunicated him at Bologna; and cardinal Grimani has openly given out that the Turk consents to arrangements for peace with Ferdinand and other princes. How, then, can the message of the Pope be true? They are to impress upon him how much effusion of Christian blood will follow from these proceedings of his in favor of the Emperor, and urge him no longer to refuse to do what he is asked, but to admit our excusator, and not proceed further against us at Rome. Leaves it all to their discretion. They shall reproach the Pope for not applying to the king of France for aid, by which he has offended both Kings. He ought rather to use his authority with the Emperor to restrain his ambition, and induce his brother Ferdinand to settle his quarrel with the king of Hungary, and not intermeddle in our cause. If you find that the Pope does not take this reply of ours agreeably, and the fact of the preparation of the Turks is a reality, you shall tell him that we will assist him with all alacrity. There is no need to spur a willing horse, if he will comply with our wishes. And that, whenever we are certain that the Turk is ready to move, we shall be prepared, and assemble an army, which we can do easily in our kingdom, and lead it in person to Provence; that, in union with the king of France, we doubt not easily to overcome the enemy. Nor is it probable that we should expose our person without sufficient power. You shall urge him also to look to his own safety, seeing the Emperor's army is in Italy, and retire to Avignon, while we and the king of France will defend him. Sends a copy of the letter of the king of Hungary to the princes of Germany; also of what was done in the diet of Lubeck; also of the letter of the king of France to the English ambassador, and of our ambassador to him. In these letters we are surprised to find that you, Gregory, stated before the Pope and Cardinals that you had sufficient instructions from us to conclude with the Pope in all matters touching aid against the Turk. We have sent letters to the king of Poland, to whom Ferdinand and John have submitted their dispute touching their right to Hungary. You shall also tell the Pope that the Imperial ambassador has informed us that the Emperor will make terms with the princes of Germany, and consent to all their innovations in religion. Greenwich, 9 Feb. 1531. Signed.
Lat. Add
.
R. O. 2. Draft of the preceding, with some variations.
In Vannes' hand, pp. 13. Endd.
9 Feb.
R. O.
793. Sir John Fitzjames to Henry VIII.
I have examined with all the diligence and secresy I could, the persons named in the deposition of Peter Aleyn, and send them subscribed by me, as you commanded. It appears there were no such words spoken in your said gaol, except by the said Peter, and, I trust, no such conspiracy against your Majesty. It is all an invention of the said Peter and his affinity. I never heard of the escape till I saw his deposition, but if you please it shall be inquired of. Redlinche, 9 Feb. Signed.
P
. 1. Add.
9 Feb.
Simancas MS.
794. Mai to Charles V.
Copy of the last paragraph of a letter dated Rome, 9 Feb. 1532. In the cause of England, thank God, it was arranged in Consistory that on the first Friday in Lent report (relacion) should be made. But they have altered it, so that there will be a dispute on one article, whether the excusator shall be admitted; and how long this will last God knows. I will labor with the Pope today that the report may be made, and that the question may be considered not only whether he shall be heard or no, but whether his plea that the cause should not be adjudicated here is just or no. Thinks this will prevent delay. Rome, 9 Feb. 1532.
Sp., p. 1. Modern copy.
10 Feb.
R. O.
795. Lord Broke.
Depositions touching the will of lord Broke. Headed : "A abstract of the last will of the last lorde Broke, takyn owztt of the sayenges of perpetuum reie memoryam (sic) in the Chancery, the 10th day of February, in the 23rd year of king Henry the VIII."
Large paper, pp. 10.
10 Feb.
Vit. B. XIII. 148. B. M. Pocock, II. 177.
796. Ghinucci and Benet to Henry VIII.
After writing so far, the Pope summoned Ancona and de Monte to hear what the Imperial ambassadors had to say, and after very loud talking, which we who were not in the chamber heard distinctly, sent the Imperialists away. He then summoned us to hear the complaints, and the efforts he had used in opposing them. The King will learn more from Karne. Rome, 11 Feb. 1532. Signed.
Lat., mutilated. Add
.
11 Feb.
R. O. St. P. VII. 346.
797. Karne to Henry VIII.
Since my letter of the 20th Jan. till Benet's arrival, nothing was done in your cause. I could obtain none of those ways for which I stood when the dispensation was granted, of which I wrote on 17 Dec. Your counsel here think the Pope will not only proceed deliberately, but also have some respect to the truth. On Benet's arrival the Queen's counsel informed the Cardinals touching your letter, which I did exhibit, stating that it does not contain sufficient mandate for my allegations. On the 7th a Consistory was held in St. Angelos, it was said, for furtherance of the Queen's cause. On being called into the Consistory by the Pope, his Holiness desired me to deliver my petition to cardinal Csarinus, vice-chancellor. Speaks of the defect of the mandate, as he had written to the King in letters by John Davis, sent with the bishop of Winchester's bulls. The Cardinals take the King's letters merely as intended to deceive the Court. Begs, therefore, that a more exact mandate may be sent. The case is referred to the cardinals Ancona and Monti, but all depends upon the latter. On Friday next the discussions begin. The Imperials were this day with the Pope and the said two Cardinals, against whom the Imperials made great exclamation. Rome, 11 Feb. 1532.
Hol. Add.
11 Feb.
R. O.
798. Henry Lokewode to Cromwell.
I am sorry you are displeased with me, as all my comfort is in you, to whom I am indebted for all I have. Whereas you might think that I should in any manner have moved Mr. Rudde to preach as he did : I never so thought, but rather the contrary. I am sorry he meddled with such matters in his sermon. I am quite innocent. I would have come to you to make mine answer, but that Master Wyatt wrote to me that you willed me not to come. I hope, therefore, you will "except" me as before, or I cannot tell how I shall live. Promotion have I none, and in hope of you I have taken a degree and "impoveryd" myself. Christ's College, Cambridge, 11 Feb.
Remember our poor college, considering what charge we have been at this long time.
Hol., but not in his own hand, p. 1. Add. : Of the Council.
11 Feb.
R. O.
799. T. Englefeld to Cromwell.
I thank you for procuring my recompence for the office of the mastership of the wards. (fn. 3) My Lord President and I have examined the murder of the four men in the lordship of Elvell, next the county of Herford, committed Twelfth Day twelvemonth, heretofore examined in the Star Chamber. At the next assizes in Harford (Hereford), to be held Monday in the fourth week of Lent, I intend to put the new statute in execution against the offenders. When they are put on their trial, great labor, I doubt not, will be made for them to the King, for the greatest offenders, who are Vaughans. Hereford, 11 Feb.
Hol., p. 1. Add. : Of the King's council. Endd.
13 Feb.
R. O.
800. [The English Ambassadors At Rome to Henry VIII.]
Your Majesty will learn from our common letters that it was concluded in the Rota, and also in the Consistory, that the excusator should not be admitted without a mandate. We do not wish to present the mandate sent to us some time ago ad prsentandas exceptiones dilatorias, because we have heard divers auditors use words by which they seemed to regard our matters as irrelevant. And the Pope confirms us in this opinion, who told us yesterday some considered that even with a mandate the excusator could not propose such things, "qu majestatem vestram relevarent," by the admission of a proctor. So, finding they were so urgent about sending a mandate for the principal cause, and that some maintained that it was the rule of the Court that no one could be excused from appearing, even with a mandate, unless he came and produced the mandate ad causam principalem, we resolved not only not to use the mandate, but not to acknowledge that we had it. 13 Feb.
Lat., p. 1.

Add. MS. 28,584, f. 163. B. M.
801. The Divorce.
Protestation of the excusator of Henry VIII. in the Roman court. The articles are as follows : Quod causa est gravissima. Quod interest regis caus assistere. Existentia regni Angli. Propter absentiam regum Angli insurrexerint seditiones. Si Rex se absentaret seditiones, scandala &c. insurgerent, qu rediens sedare non posset. Quod regnum Angli distat ab Urbe per mille milliaria et ultra. Quod si rex Angli deberet venire ad Urbem oporteret transire per aliena regna. Quod Rex non consuevit nec decet se submittere tali periculo. Quod dictus Rex ad curiam non potest tute accedere. Quod Rex non tenetur per se nec per procuratorem comparere.
Lat., pp. 12. Modern copy. Headed : La relation en Latin que enbio el doctor Ortiz sobre lo de la reyna de Ynglaterra.
14 Feb.
R. O.
802. Edw. Lee, Archbishop of York, to Cromwell.
Thanks him for his trouble in ascertaining the King's mind about his payment for the days that are expired. As the King requires 200l., and he will have no rent before Whitsuntide, hopes favorable days will be allowed him. Understands he must get a discharge from the Exchequer for the whole vacation due to the King, and a pardon for dismes due partly by my late lord Cardinal, and partly by others before him. Requests Cromwell's help in these matters, and in obtaining the coining irons. Stockwell, 14 Feb. 1531.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
14 Feb.
R. O.
803. Henry Earl Of Essex to Cromwell.
Has two children at his own cost in the house of canons of Byleghe, Essex, of which he is founder, and some one has come from King's College, Cambridge, with a placard to take them from him. Wishes to have a placard that he may keep them still, else the service of God cannot be maintained. Stansted, 14 Feb. Signed.
P
. 1. Add. : To my right entirely well beloved friend, Master Cromwell.
14 Feb.
Galba, B. X. 3. B. M.
804. Stephen Vaughan to Cromwell.
Sends a copy of the Act[made by the H]ollanders against [English cloth], by which they enjoin that no man in their towns shall retail cloth made out of the Emperor's [countries] in these parts. What [is this] but a very banishment? Who can wear a whole cloth in his g[arment] without it be cut and shaped like unto a gown, jacket, &c.? This was proclaimed at Amsterdam, and cost me both money and pains to get. It is signed by one of the s[ecreta]rys of the same town.
As soon as I can dispatch your spermaceti I will come home. I sent Thomas Avery before by the ships, which, I think, are yet in Seeland. Antwerp, Ash Wednesday, 1531.
Hears that the King has deputed Dr. Knight, ... Hackett, and other merchants to meet the Emperor's commissioners about the intercourse. They should be exceedingly well instructed, for "the polytikist felows in all this londe" will be deputed against them. Thinks that none of them have ever before had any in ... in any of the King's intercourses; but all the others have been deputed therein sundry times. No one would be fitter than my lord of Duresme, or some one who has had previous intelligence in the matter, as it is of great importance. William Bowyar speaks Dutch, but has no knowledge in [the inter]course, nor can no more skill therein than I can skill in the [building] of a steeple. An older man had been much better ... Wethipoll has studied our intercourses here, and knows mo[re] than any merchant belonging to the Adventurers.
Hol., p. 1. Add. : To, &c. Maister Thomas Crumwell, within the gate of the Fryres Augnes.
14 Feb.
Vienna Archives.
805. Chapuys to Charles V.
The duke of Norfolk told me two days ago that the King had written for the despatch of the Vayvode's secretary to your Majesty, the king of the Romans, the king of Poland, and the Vayvode, and had sent the whole to the French king to add what he thought proper. He told me some portions of the despatch, and implied that there were some overtures for peace; but I would not inquire about them, as I wished to ask him about the Landgrave's man, and the diet held by the Lutherans in Lubeck. As to the diet, he said he had not heard that they had decided anything, and that the King had received letters from Frederick king of Denmark, but only to recommend certain merchants.
To the former, he said that the Lutheran princes complained of the election of the king of the Romans, which they said was void, and that the King had answered, that if they would refer their principal differences, which is religion, to certain princes, meaning himself and Francis, they would try to remedy their grievance. To this the King had had no answer. Had no time to ask about the men of the duke of Cleves, as the Duke was seized with a headache and retired.
The return of the bishop of Winchester is put off, and it is said he will remain in the French court and wait for the Scotch ambassadors, who are coming to treat for peace, or a renewal of the truce, and are now waiting for their safe-conduct. A Scotch king-of-arms has been here about it. The King has been trying to obtain in Parliament the third part of the feudal property of deceased persons, but he has not yet succeeded, and the demand has been the occasion of strange words against the King and Council. Nothing has been concluded, except a prohibition to import new wines till Candlemas. There was some talk about prohibiting silk, but it was not passed.
The principal point has not been touched upon in public yet; but there are practices in private; and especially the duke of Norfolk and the lady's father are trying to suborn the archbishop of Canterbury, whom they consider as Pope of England. However, he was so well warned, that they could not shake him; and it seems that as they despair of gaining their end by an ecclesiastical way, they will take some other road. Lately the Duke assembled a number of persons, and told them how badly the Pope had treated the King by not remitting the cause according to the privileges of the kingdom; and even without these privileges the case ought to be treated here, as certain doctors say that matrimonial causes belong to the temporal jurisdiction, not the spiritual, and that jurisdiction belongs to the King, who is emperor in his kingdom, and not to the Pope; and he asked them for their advice, and whether they would not employ their persons and goods in preserving the royal rights.
The first who replied, lord Darcy, said that his goods and person were at the King's disposal, but he had heard and read that matrimonial cases were spiritual and under ecclesiastical jurisdiction, and that the King and Council knew what had to be done without involving others (sans vouloer mectre le chat entre les jambes d'autres). Most of those present agreed with this answer, but the Duke was not pleased.
The King's council have finally decided that the Diet shall be held on 1 March, and consent to Bourbourg being named instead of Gravelines. The deputies are two doctors, and a master of the Staple at Calais. London, 14 Feb. '32.
Fr. From a modern copy.
14 Feb.
R. O.
806. St. Clement's Danes.
Lease by Sir Henry Wyat to Robt. Ellowe, of the parish of St. Clement Danes, London, yeoman, of the tenement called the Clement, in that parish, for 31 years, at 3l. a year. 14 Feb. 23 Hon. VIII. Witnesses : Thos. Derbye, Robt. Elwall, Wm. Covell, and others.
Vellum. Endd.

Footnotes

  • 1. Sir William Weston, prior of the Knights of St. John.
  • 2. The King was at Ampthill in Sept. 1531.
  • 3. See vol. IV. Nos. 2,218 (22), 2,673 (3).