Henry VIII: February 1537, 11-15

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 12 Part 1, January-May 1537. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1890.

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'Henry VIII: February 1537, 11-15', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 12 Part 1, January-May 1537, (London, 1890) pp. 198-210. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol12/no1/pp198-210 [accessed 22 April 2024]

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February 1537, 11–15

11 Feb.
R. O.
St. P. v. 68.
398. NORFOLK to the COUNCIL.
Had no leisure till now to answer their letters of the 4th delivered on the 9th, requiring his opinion of the coming hither of the king of Scots. Thinks, under correction, his coming through the realm will do no harm, except the expense. Thinks it strange, however, that James has not written to the King, his uncle, himself. Believes it proceeds from Scotch pride, which may be abated by what he shall see in this realm, which shall be nothing pleasant to him, having, as he ever will have, "a very enemy's heart in his body." He should, however, have no safe-conduct unless he means himself to obtain it, and in that point the French king would be so handled that he should have no cause of unkindness. Has written to the bp. of Tarbes to counteract some false bruits in France of the business of these parts. York, 11 Feb. at 8. m. Signed.
Add. Endd.
R. O.
St. P. I. 535.
399. CONCERNING JAMES V.
"Articles made against the passage of the Scottish king through the realm of England."
1. The King's honour is not to receive the king of Scots in his realm except as a vassal, for there never came king of Scots into England in peaceful manner otherwise. 2. It cannot be honourable to the King to grant him a free passage who not only broke the appointment for the interview, but pretended he should be betrayed if he kept it; for if anything happened to him or his wife the King would be suspected.
ii. "Touching the charges." 1. If they were permitted to pass through England, the expense of their reception from place to place must be considered. 2. If the King, having arranged to go to York this summer for the Parliament, Coronation, and perfect establishment of the country, should grant them passage, it would waste the North country, and the King would find a difficulty in victualling his own train; for it is said horsemeat cannot be had even now. 3. It will be grievous to the nobles, after their late charges, and again before the imminent charges of the Parliament and Coronation, to burden themselves to honour him they love not. 4. It should be remembered how James has treated any request the King has made to him, especially for the restitution of Angus; and also how he has reproached the King's Council to his agents in France, and how, since his arrival there, he has never written to the King or sent him any message to inform him of his marriage or his desire to come hither. 5. What glory he might conceive by his coming through and reception; and what things he might practise in coming through to the King's injury. 6. Where things be out of frame, (fn. 1) both touching religion and other matters which the King endeavours to establish, all matters in contention must be left undetermined if the King allow their passage, and that thing followed for their receiving which may afterwards bring repentance.
In Wriothesley's hand. Endd. as above.
[11 Feb.]
R. O.
400. NORFOLK to CROMWELL.
Though all the ringleaders be not yet apprehended, assures Cromwell there shall lack no diligence to have them taken if his health hold out, but the lax continues so sore "that either it must leave me or I it." Thos. Hussy can report how his body consumes with it. Begs this be kept secret, for he is in no such case but he can ride lustily. York, Sunday, 9 p.m.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Sealed. Endd.
11 Feb.]
R. O.
401. NORFOLK to HENRY VIII.
Bigod, of whom he wrote that he should hardly escape untaken, was taken on Saturday last by Sir John Lample and others whom he sent for his apprehension. The first man that informed about a person like to be Bigod was Sir Thomas Curwen, and Norfolk sent his brother John with the said Sir John to take him, with a letter to a gentleman named Gawin Ratcliff to spy where he was. He has been conveyed to Carlisle Castle till Norfolk send for him, as they durst not bring him through Westmoreland. Letters of thanks should be written to these gentlemen. Refers to bearer for the circumstances of the taking of Bigod and his two servants. Tomorrow 9 or 10 traitors shall be arraigned, and more would have been if evidence had been found against seven or eight that escaped yesterday; but quod differtur non aufertur. Eight or nine of the ringleaders of these last commotions are fled. Trusts few will escape. York, this Sunday, 10 p.m. Signed.
P. 1. Sealed. Add. Endd.
11 Feb.
R. O.
402. SIR RALPH EURE to CROMWELL.
The day after I wrote word came to my lord's Grace that Sir Francis Bigod was taken by Sir John Lampley. Begs, therefore, that Cromwell will get him the King's bill signed for such lands of Bigod's, as he wrote of heretofore, as his Majesty thinks meet. Is desirous to have the lordship of Settering[ton], worth 120l., of which lord Latimer has fy[fty] pounds, and the lordship of Burdsal, which is 40 mks. a year, and in my lady my gra ... feoffement. York, 11 Feb. Signed.
P. 1. Add: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
11 Feb.
R. O.
403. OUDART DU BIES to LORD LISLE.
You write that you have daily complaints of my soldiers making incursions into your Pale, which seem more for robbery than otherwise. I have not discovered that any of my men is in fault, but if you know any, I will punish it. Hereafter, if you find any of my men in your Pale, and can take them, you may execute them. I have never heard say that where one finds an enemy out of neutral territory one may not make war upon him, so I hope you will do them no wrong. As to the sutler of whom you wrote, I am very glad of the names you have sent to punish those who have taken him, because they went about it without my leave, and as their captain, I declare him quit of the ransom he has promised them. I thank you for the fine oranges sent by Madame, "vostre bonne partie." Boulogne, 11 Feb. Signed.
Fr., pp. 2. Add.
11 Feb.
R. O.
404. ANTHOINE BRUSSET to LORD LISLE.
I regret that I have no news from you touching the four foot soldiers taken within your Pale, and imprisoned at Boulogne, as you wrote that you had sent to the King to know his pleasure. I therefore send the bearer a trumpet of the band of my lord Admiral, and beg you to inform me what order has been taken. Aire, 11 Feb.'36. Signed.
Fr. p. 1. Add. Endd.
R. O. 2. Copy of the above, in the hand of lord Lisle's clerk.
Fr. p. 1. Add.
11 Feb.
Titus B. XI. 405 B. M. St. P. II. 420.
405. DEPUTY AND COUNCIL OF IRELAND to CROMWELL.
Considering the good services of Sir Edw. Basnet, prebendary of St. Patrick's, Dublin, we wrote for your lordship to get the King's letters to the dean of St. Patrick's to resign, as aged and impotent, and to the chapter there to elect whomsoever we should name; without making mention of Sir Edward, lest the chapter, being mostly natives, should know beforehand that we intended to appoint an Englishman. Cromwell thereupon wrote gently to the dean, but he refuses to resign although formerly he desired to do so in favour of Dr. Traverse, "approved afterward an arrant traditor." Beg favour for Sir Edward. Dublin, 11 Feb. Signed by lord Leonard Gray, Geo. bp. of Dublin, Rawson, Brabason and John Alen.
Add.: Lord Cromwell lord Privy Seal.
11 Feb.
R. O.
St. P. VII. 671.
406. JOHN HUTTON to CROMWELL.
Can find no harness or other munitions of war provided here, except splints and sculls, which are ready laden in the ships of Hull. Does not think advisable to make search, for the ships would be forfeited, and suggests that Cromwell may give order against the coming of the ships to Hull to have them arrested there, and the parties examined, viz., Robt. Smythe, Sethe Harryson, Anthous Idon, Rauff Beker, of Hull and York.
Cosmo de Medisis was chosen Governor of Florence after the murder of Duke Alexander, and has restored the city to its old liberties. Harvell writes from Venice on the 19th that the Turkish Ambassador has delivered new articles which the Signory refuse, saying that they will observe the old ones. Andrew Doria is returned to Genoa with 2,000 foot, and money to pay the soldiers left by the Emperor in Italy. The Turk has assembled a great army, but cannot pass unless the Venetians consent. The Emperor, by his said letter, has got much treasure to repay with interest. All the Princes of Almayn are assembled, and are making great provision to withstand the Turk. Barough, 11 Feb.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
12 Feb.
R. O.
407. JOHN EARL OF OXFORD to CROMWELL.
Sends the examination of Thos. Toone, parson of Wyley, Essex, sent to him to-day, Feb. 12, by Sir Wm. Pyrton, to be examined, and also the examinations of two "proves."
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
R. O. 2. Confessions of Thos. Rogers and John Crow of Wyley, Essex, labourers, taken before John de Veer, earl of Oxford, on 12 Feb. 28 Hen. VIII.
Rogers deposes that about Sept. 2 last, Sir Thos. Toone, parson of Wyley, having been in the North three weeks or a month, asked him to gather tithe sheaves with him in fields called "Lambeles Redoon" and "Wardes." He said to him "There shall be business shortly in the North, and I trust to help strength my countrymen with 10,000 such as I am myself, and that I shall be one of the worst of them all." Answered, "Little said is soon amended." Afterwards the parson said, "Remember ye not what I said unto you right now, care not ye for that, for an Easter come, the King shall not reign long." One John Crow heard part. Deposes that Toone also said that Cranmer was an ostler, and Cromwell a sherman at Ipswich.
Has heard Toone say that the parson of Moche Hollond in Essex, and his brother, Rathbye, bailiff of Hollond, are great friends, that the said parson is a substantial rich priest, and that they and he can bear all the causes they have to do. Never heard the parson or his brother say anything concerning the King's causes in the North; but the parson of Wyley said that the parson of Hollond and he rode together Northwards, and came home again together.
ii. John Crow deposes that he heard Toone say that the King would not reign long after Easter. Rogers asked him, when the priest had gone up a furrow gathering tithes, what he had heard, and bade him keep it secret till it might be further examined. Said he would do so, for if it came to the priest's ears he would surely cast him in prison.
Pp. 3.
12 Feb.
R. O.
408. SIR ARTHUR DARCY to LORD DARCY.
My lord's Grace (duke of Norfolk)' desires to be recommended to lord Darcy, and has read his instructions and letter. He intends to ride to Sawley on Wednesday and to Rypon on Thursday, and wishes Sir Arthur to take 20 or 30 clean fellows, besides his household men, the good geldings to have spears and the worse bows. Asks Lord Darcy to have 30 or 40 of the best sort ready at an hour's warning. Will pay their costs if they ride with him. Sends the oath. "He" (Norfolk) thinks it necessary that Lord Darcy should put away his steward, but he will not appoint him to any place. He may go at his pleasure, for Norfolk does not know that he has offended since the Pardon. He thanks Darcy for his offers, and will call upon him if any business should be. York, 12 Feb.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
12 Feb.
R. O.
409. SIR RALPH EURE to CROMWELL.
This day John Wyvell and Ralph Fenton, captains in this last insurrection at Scarborough, have been indicted on gaol delivery, and have their judgement to die. Wyvell has 40 marks of land or thereabouts, which is now at the King's pleasure. Hopes Cromwell will favour Mr. Teshe, who sues to have it. He sustained losses in the first commotion and was with the writer in Scarborough Castle. York, 12 Feb. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord of the Privy Seal. Endd.
12 Feb.
R. O.
410. SIR RALPH ELLERKAR, Jun., to CROMWELL.
Has received Cromwell's letter of the 4th inst. directing him to discharge the wheat he had restrained at Hull, for which he wrote to the duke of Suffolk to have had money. Has discharged it already as he sent word by Thos. Husse. Desires to know the King's pleasure about the town of Hull. At his first coming thither was in dread both of the town and country, and retained more soldiers than he would have done till he got the upper hand of the rebels. The number was at first 170, but on the 1st inst. he discharged 116. Has no money to pay them from that date. Regrets that the King thinks he would cause him needless expense. His deputy received only half a last of gunpowder at Hull from Mr. Trawers. Will take care to suppress whisperings as Cromwell directs. As for the proceedings of my lord Lieutenant's grace at York, the King will learn by the bearer what traitors have been arraigned, and how many shall be put to execution. "Thare is ix, where off thare is one gentyll man callyd Wywell, and thre challans—one the sub-prior of Watton, and two off Warter, wyche was taycyn by Nycolles Rudstone." Wywell and Fentton were taken by Sir Ralph Evers, and I brought from Hull six, "where off is cast two," the subprior of Watton and one Cantt, and I have there yet three that are indicted, and divers others.
The bearer, John Fowbery, was the first that disclosed the traitorous purpose of Hallam at Hull. Thinks Cromwell should help him to some farm that Hallam had of the house of Watton, and to about 5 marks' land which Hallam also had there; for, besides this service the man was with Rudstone and came to me in the field, when Bygod was put from Beverley, when I could not be sure of many. York, 12 Feb.
Hol., pp. 3. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
12 Feb.
R. O.
411. CAPTAIN OF POVERTY to the CONSTABLE OF MELLYNG.
This 12 Feb. "at morn was un belapped on every side with our enemies the captain of Carlisle and gentlemen of our country of Westmoreland, and hath destroyed and slain many our brethren and neighbours." Wherefore we desire your aid, according to your oaths, and this Tuesday we command you every one to be at Kendal before 8 o'clock or we are likely to be destroyed.
Copy, pp. 1. In margin in Thomas Derby's hand: "The like letter was sent to Bethom by Colyns which we sent in our letters to the King's highness from Preston, xxj Martii."
12 Feb.
R. O.
412. WILLIAM BOWYER, Alderman, to WRIOTHESLEY.
1536 12 Feb.:—What I have heard of you makes me very desirous of your acquaintance, and now I shall be much more bound for the pain you will take in writing for me to Mr. Gunston. The ship is a Biscayan named The Three Kings, laden entirely with my goods, malmseys and other things, and waiting for wind at Gorend. I beg that I may have the "lers" (letters?) before noon, for at 1 p.m. I intend to send a servant down thither. I beg you to take part of a pickerel with me on Thursday.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
12 Feb.
Add. MS. 8,715 f. 336 b. B.M.
413. FAENZA to PAUL III.
Expresses grief at the death of Card. Palmieri.
Italian, pp. 2. Modern copy headed: Al nro. sigre. Da Autuiel 12 Febraro 1537.
12 Feb.
Ib. 337 b. B.M.
414. The SAME to AMBROGIO.
Since leaving Paris the King has been three days at Ciantagli (Chantilly), the Grand Master's place, where no business was done. The Count (fn. 2) arrived at San Lis on the 7th with the sword, and the king of Scots welcomed him and showed the greatest satisfaction at this demonstration of his Holiness and desires to receive it with the usual ceremonies; but as the Court lies at present in villages the ceremony will be performed at Compiegny, where the Court shall be within two days. The King said he was sorry he was not in his own kingdom where he might have received it with greater reverence. "Il Rmo. Sigre. Generale" was to leave Paris on the 7th on his return. He carries letters of credence from the kings of France and Scotland and the Grand Master, and can inform his Holiness of many things, "e con questa saranno sue lettere a V. S." He said on leaving that he had been with the abbot Alebrot (Arbroath) who would execute in Scotland what remained to be done for the intimation of the Council. Has not yet given him the briefs brought by the Count on the 9th because he had gone to Paris, but he shall have them tomorrow at his return to Court * * *. The Grand Master said yesterday they had no news from England, but expected it hourly; as Faenza does his new commission about the execution of the censures. * * *
Italian, pp. 4. Modern copy headed: Al Sigre, Protrio. Ambrogio. D'Auteuil, li 12 Febraro 1537.
13 Feb.
R. O.
415. WM. CASTYLLEN to CROMWELL.
On coming to Dover received a letter from his factor in Flanders that the Governor and Merchants Adventurers there had condemned him during his absence in 100 mks. for "a broke" for shipping certain kerseys to Flanders in other ships than were appointed for this present mart. Asks him to write to them, desiring the matter to be remitted to him. Will be content to stand by his order. Dover, 13 Feb. 1536.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
13 Feb.
R. O.
416. NORFOLK to CROMWELL.
Received Cromwell's letter yesterday by Sir Oswald Wilstroppe. Trusts no default shall be found in him, as Cromwell insinuates, in the suppression of the abbeys and treatment of the traitors therein. Reminds him of what he said when the King examined him in the gallery of his opinion in causes of religion. If he be truly reported the King will know he has performed his promise hitherto. Neither here nor elsewhere will he be reputed papist or favourer of naughty religious persons. His words have been such that divers gentlemen yesterday warned him to take heed what he ate or drank in religious houses. Is comforted by the assurance that the King is his good lord. Sends a bill of the names of those who be now cast and where execution shall be done; also of others whom he keeps in prison, who could not be indicted for lack of evidence. Expects to have more pregnant matter against them by examining Bigod and his followers. As the justices of assise are coming, thinks they and my lord of Westmoreland should have a new commission to be in the "coram" with him in Westmoreland, where my lord of Cumberland cannot be as he is sheriff there, but that he should be joined with them in Cumberland. This is important, as Norfolk may not have health to join them and is so busy in other places. Dreadful execution begun here should be followed out elsewhere. York, 13 Feb. Signed.
Desires the bearer, who was principal cause of the taking of Hallam, may be put to the King's service.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
R. O. 2. List referred to in the preceding.
Two canons of Warter to be hanged in chains at York, one of whom was once subprior and the other kitchener; also two yeomen named Fenton and Cawnte; the subprior of Watton to be hanged in chains at Watton. Wivell, a gentleman of 20l. lands, to be hanged in chains at Scarborough. A head yeoman called Ottirbourne to be hanged in chains at Yersley Moor, five miles from Sheriffhutton, who caused the stirring thereabouts. Anthony Pecok to be hanged in chains on Richmond Moor who was the principal stirrer of the business beside Barney castle. Graystoke is reprieved by desire of all the gentlemen.
ii. "Others kept yet in prison."
Levenyng, gentleman, and Fulthorp, a gentleman and younger brother. A friar for seditious preaching which the learned men here will not determine to be treason without the advice of the judges. His confession shall go with this. Hutone, one of the chief captains of the first rebellion, against whom there is no proof as yet of fresh offences.
iii. "Such ringleaders as cannot yet be gotten, but as we think here be fled out of these parts."
Leche of Lincolnshire; the friar of Knaresborough; Nynyane Staveley, Edw. Middiltone and Thos. Carter, of Massham, the ringleaders of the new stirring about Middelham and Richmond. Fled from Beverley:—Wilsone, Wodmansey, and Marshall, parish clerk of Beswick. "In Westmoreland not yet taken but great ringleaders":—Nic. Musgrave and one Tibbey, "whom I trust be taken by this time." In Durham divers ringleaders not yet taken nor fled; but I trust they shall shortly be taken. "As concerning the monks of Sawley and the other abbeys, I cannot yet speak of their offences, but or Sunday I doubt not to do."
iv. In prison at Hull and indicted here, "upon whom we shall sit at the next sitting in this shire":—Launcelot Wilkinsone, Ant. Weste, and one Lawry let to bail at Beverley by Sir Ralph Ellerker and others, which accompanied Bigod there, as it is thought, more for fear than malice.
Pp. 2.
13 Feb.
R. O.
St. P. VIII. 252.
417. LISLE and the COUNCIL OF CALAIS to CROMWELL.
Received his letter of 30 Jan., declaring the King's pleasure as to the preservation of neutrality between the Emperor and the French king, and stating that the King had written to his agents, both in France and Flanders, for redress of misorders within the Pale. The French have captured Flemish victuallers within the Pale coming to victual the town, and put one to ransom. Wrote about it to Du Bies, and send copy with his answer. Since then on Sunday last the French took about 100 head of neat within the Pale and still keep 45 oxen put to pasture by men of Flanders with the King's tenants here. Wish to know the King's pleasure within eight days; for Lisle has had divers letters from the captain of Gravelines to procure redeliverance of the Emperor's subjects taken by the French, and he wrote again yesterday the enclosed, to which Lisle has made answer today that he expects instructions within eight days. Calais, 13 Feb.
If remedy be not shortly found, neither side will resort to the town and the King's subjects will live in fear. Signed by Lisle, Sir Ric. Graynffeld, lord Edmund Howard, Rob. Fouler. Sir Tho. Palmer, Sir Ro. Wyngfeld, Will. Sympson, and John Rokkewoode.
Add.: Lord Cromwell lord Privy Seal. Endd.
14 Feb.
Wegener. Aarsberetninger IV. 50.
418. HENRY VIII. to CHRISTIAN III.
On behalf of Adam Sampson and Robt. Legge, whose ship the Anne of Orowell has been detained by Christian. Is told that his former letters in their behalf were not read, as Christian was not addressed as King. Had no certain information at the time, and did not intend to derogate from his just rights. Greenwich, 14 Feb. 1536. Signed.
Lat.
14 Feb.
R. O.
419. NORFOLK to HENRY VIII.
The bearers of the following news came to York expecting to find Norfolk there, and it is feared that they have been reported worse than need be. On Monday last, when Cumberland's bastard son, deputy captain of Carlisle, came to take two traitors at Kirkby Stephen, they keeping the steeple, his horsemen, in great part strong thieves of the Westlands, began to spoil the town, and the inhabitants rose to defend both their goods and the traitors. A skirmish ensued, in which one or two rebels were slain, and Thomas my lord's bastard son, was forced to retire to Browham castle. The country has since risen, some say 4,000 or 5,000 together, and are sending for others to aid them. Hopes to look on them by Saturday night. Thinks no such thing would have occurred if this enterprise had been handled "as it was promised me." Fountains, 14 Feb. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd. Sealed.
14 Feb.
R. O.
420. NORFOLK to ROB. DYGHTON.
Thanks him for sending a fellow that conveyed letters from Lech into Lincolnshire, whom Norfolk has committed to prison. Will cause the King's highness to thank him also. York, 14 Feb. Signed.
P. 1. Headed: By the duke of Norfolk the King's lieutenant in these North parts. Add.: To our loving friend Robert Dyghton at Sturton. Endd.
14 Feb.
Calig. B.I. 133. B.M.
421. The COUNCIL OF THE MARCHES OF SCOTLAND to HENRY VIII.
Think, after much debate among themselves, the granting of annuities by patents to Cuthbert and Edward Charlton, of Tyndale, unadvisable. They have been the chief stirrers of commotion; when the rest of the country was content to take oath "upon their keepers after this late busy time" to be true to the King, they refused "unless they had been reserved to be part takers with the house of Hexam in the time of the rebellion of the same"; to the maintenance of which they took oath and are retained for 20 nobles a year each, as Roger Fenwick, their keeper, asserts. They have also refused to give any pledges for the restitution of goods taken by them, and have made a confederacy with the misruled persons of Liddisdale, Gedworth forest, Hayrlaw woods, and the water of Esk. Think it necessary therefore that they be apprehended and punished, and that provision be made for a garrison of 300 soldiers on the frontiers against Tyndal until they be taken. Have thought it expedient for the bringing in of Redisdale and other causes to cause John Heron to be bound in 200 marks to appear before the King instead of arresting him and sending him up by water, as the King desired through Sir Anthony Brown. Have advised Brown to stay the King's patents granting the keeping of Ridisdail to George Fenwick, as the sudden change would interfere with good order, and the lieutenant of the Middle Marches cannot well exercise his office unless he have the rule of the men of Ridisdail. Berwick Castle, 14 Feb. Signed: Thomas Clyfford—William Eure—Jhon Weddryngton—Robert Collyngwod—Lyoll Gray—Cuthbert Radclyff—John Horslee."
Pp. 3. Add, Endorsed: "Letters from the Council of the Marches."
R. O. 422. HENRY VIII. to [the COUNCIL OF THE MARCHES OF SCOTLAND].
We perceive by your letters containing your proceedings since the arrival in those parts of Sir Ant. Browne, your opinion touching the two Charletons. You are to apprehend them and send them up forthwith. We marvel that you write that for defence against them it will be necessary to lay 300 men upon the Borders; "for, being Northumberland and the other parts thereabouts quiet, we think "_(stops abruptly).
Copy of commencement of letter headed: By the King.
14 Feb.
Vatican MS.
423. SUIT AGAINST SCOTCHMEN AT ROME. (fn. 3)
A record of evidence taken at Rome against James Salmond, David Bonar, and John Smith (Faber), Scots, 12 and 14 Feb. 1537.
Latin, pp. 13. From a modern copy in R. O.
[15 Feb.]
R. O.
424. SEDITIOUS SONGS.
Information against John Hogon, who, going about the country with a "crowde" or a fiddle, was at Diss, in Norfolk, on Thursday after Ash Wednesday, 28 Henry VIII., and there, in the house of Edmund Brown, butcher, sang a song with these words, "The hunt is up, &c. The masters of art and doctors of divinity have brought this realm out of good unity. Three noble men have take this to stay; my lord of Norfolk, lord Surrey, and my lord of Shrewsbury. The duke of Suffolk might a made England merry," and so forth. At the end of his song one John Jamys said, "Beware how thou singest this song in Suffolk." He asked why, for he had sung it twice before my lord of Surrey, at Cambridge and at Thetford Abbey; on which Thomas Bek replied that if he had sung it before my lord of Surrey he would have set him by the feet for slandering him. Bek also asked what he meant by the line about the duke of Suffolk. He said he meant that if the Duke had let the Lincolnshire men join with the Northern men they would have brought England "to a better stay than it is now"; also that the duke had promised to get pardons for the Lincolnshire men, and yet had caused seven of them to be hanged afterwards, and divers more are sent for. The fellow had gone about singing this song and made this report in the houses of Robt. Frauncez, John Ketylbergh, and John Harlewyne, and hearing thereof the said John Jamys went to Thos. Bek, who got him to bring the fellow to Edmund Browne's house, where he sang it and reported the above words. By "The hunt is up" he meant the Northern men are up. Signed and sealed by Thomas Bek, John Jamys, John Folssar, butcher, and Davy William.
P. 1. Endd.
15 Feb,
R. O.
425. ROBT. HALDESWORTH, Priest, to Sir HENRY SAYVELL.
Your servant Mr. Fornes and I have dispatched your obligation and mine with Mr. Packyngton, which I have sent you by your said servant. He demands a "feoe" yearly of you. At my coming home I will shortly come and show you what more I can do. My lord Privy Seal gave me good words both for you and me, and promised me letters. I have sent to you to keep a writ of 'tachment directed to Mr. Sheriff, on which I desire your counsel. Pray show my lord of Norfolk how John Lacy has spoiled my house twice. The bearer can show you about our being at London, and that the King and his whole Court are in health. Cannot tell what week this Lent I can come to Halifax. London, 15 Feb. 1536.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
15 Feb.
R. O.
426. [NORFOLK] to Sir CHR. DACRES.
Cousin Dacres, I know not whether you received the letter I sent you yesterday. I hear those commons now assembled draw towards Carlisle, and doubt not you will gather such company as you may trust and, after your accustomed manner, use those rebels in a way to deserve the King's thanks and to aid your nephew, my very friend, whom I look for every hour. "I will not instruct you what ye shall do, for ye know better than I. Spare for no reasonable wages, for I will pay all. And spare not frankly to slay plenty of these false rebels;" and make true mine old sayings, that "Sir Christopher Dacre is a true knight to his sovereign lord, an hardy knight, and a man of war. Pinch now no courtesy to shed blood of false traitors; and be ye busy on the one side, and ye may be sure the duke of Norfolk will come on the other. Finally, now, Sir Christopher, or never." Richmond, 15 Feb. "Your loving cousin if ye do well now, or else enemy for ever."
Copy, p. 1.
15 Feb.
R. O.
427. [SIR] JOHN LOWTH[ER], THOMAS CL[IFFORD], and JOHN BARNFFE[LD] to SIR CHR. DACRE.
"In the King our sovereign lord's nam[e we command] you that ye with as many as ye tru[st to be of] the King's part and yours, come unto this th[e King's castle] in all goodly haste possible, for as we are i[nformed the] commons will be this day upon the brod fei ... further that ye leave the landserjeant with [the prickers] of Gillisland so that he and they may r[esist] the King's rebels if the said prickers of [Gillesland] will take his part, or else to bring him ... and that ye come yourself in goodly haste." Castle, of Carlisle, 15 February "at 10 hours." Signed.
In Lowther's hand, p. 1. A strip along the right edge torn off. Add. Endd.: John Louther to Sir Xpofor Darcy (sic).
15 Feb.
R. O.
428. OUDART DU BIES to LORD LISLE.
Has received his letter about some merchandise arrested by Du Bies belonging to Griffon, an eschevin of Calais, and his stepson Geo. Risseden. Thinks Lisle has been deceived. Has been informed that the goods belong to a merchant of Arras named John Harlin, who would have sold them to a merchant of Paris. Any one who has any claim on them can appeal to law. Requests lord Lisle not to allow such abuses in Calais. Monstroeul, 15 Feb. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: Deputy of Calais.
15 Feb.
R. O.
429. MICHAEL THROGMERTON to [CROMWELL].
Arrived here on the 13th at 1 p.m. Could not have come quicker.
On his arrival found his master in very strange apparel, conformable to the news before he left England. Communed with him with the best persuasion he could imagine, to the effect of his commission and about the acceptance of the cardinalate without the King's consent. To the latter point he replied that he remitted Throgmerton to the answer he would make to the Council and Cromwell. He said he had resisted accepting the dignity until he was sure he was resisting the will of God. He never sought for any such thing. Though the King is greatly displeased, he trusts it will turn out to his comfort and pleasure and the further enhancement of his honour. He perceives also that the King is angry with "the sharp and uncomely fashion that he has used in reconciling his Grace," and if the King will return to the limits of the Church and remit his new title, he will obtain of the Pope a revocation of this dignity, become "a narmett" (an hermit), or take any other strait condition the King might name, never come to England, burn his book, promise never to write anything contrary to his honour and pleasure, but use all his gifts to advance his honour and good fame and the quieting and establishing of his Majesty in his realm. It is not his fault that he has not heretofore accomplished the King's pleasure herein, as the King, with many others, thinks he ought to have done. If that be redressed wherein the fault consisteth, he will not be slack to perform the above offers nor anything else that the King will require. Otherwise he has no inclination to satisfy any part of Throgmerton's commission.
He spoke with fervent stomach and undissembled heart. Cromwell and the Council will understand more plainly from his letters.
Touching Pole's coming into Flanders, it was concluded here before Throgmerton's departure "from thence," that he should go both to France and Flanders for a composition of a general peace, and heresies, and other matters pertaining to the Church, with as ample powers as the Pope and Cardinals can grant him. He intended to depart the day after Throgmerton's arrival, but has waited to answer the King's and other letters. He intends to leave in two days and take Throgmerton with him. Upon the answer to the letters he writes now, he will despatch him out of France or Flanders. Asks for instructions. Pole goes as legate, and Throgmerton was told, as he has repeated to Pole, that there should be no communication with him if he went as a messenger of the Pope's. He says he has answered this in his letter. Trusts the King will not object to his accompanying him. Will use the time in trying to persuade him to incline, at least, to some part of his commission. Great men are not lightly persuaded, and he especially. Asks for instructions as to his behaviour. Is loath to leave him for his rare virtues and good life. No man can give better counsel in such a case than Cromwell, as no man has more proved the profit and comfort of true fidelity nor has better cause to approve it.
Has not despatched a post purposely with this, nor come himself, because this post leaves to-day, and he has yet obtained nothing worth the expense. In St. Peter's Palace at Rome, 15 Feb. 1537.
Hol., pp. 6. A detached flyleaf which has been supposed to belong to this letter is endd.: Minute of a letter to ... .; and a modern hand has added: to Michael Throkmorton ... from ld. Cromwell. (fn. 4)
R. O. 430. MICHAEL THROKEMERTON to RIC. MORISON.
Arrived here the 13th inst. Had no leisure on the way to write either to my lord or to Morison. Lost no time night or day, but such ways, weather, and horses were never seen. Found his master in a foul array and very strange apparel. Was full sorry to see it, but where there is no remedy it is folly to be sorry.
Unless Morison can provide better than man's reason can imagine, he is like to have great trouble with his red hat. Can as yet incline him to no part of his reasonable requests. Concerning his coming to France and Flanders, that legacy was deputed to him before Throkemerton left England, but he fears, from what Pole does, that there will be no colloquium granted by the King. His legacy extends for all parts beyond the mountains for composition of peace, oppression of heretics, the Turks coming into Christendom, and all other matters concerning the Church. Prays that he may not follow these men's high devices of honour, loading on his shoulders for their ambition and profit, more than he can bring to pass. Morison knows what he means. Though Pole mean never so well and godly, it is hard to know what they mean. They shall never persuade Throkemerton but that they mean their own profit, cloak it as craftily as they can. Wishes his master had some of his own "gioles" (jealous) and suspicious nature in him. Let them mean as they will, he means all for the best and to the honour of God and his Church, without dissimulation, covetousness, or ambition. Is doubtful how he will speed in all these great enterprises, and has told him so plainly. Has declared to him the goodness of Morison's master (Cromwell) towards Pole's friends and towards Throkemerton for Pole's sake. Pole is grateful for this, and, whatever chance may happen, Cromwell may be assured of his friendly heart to his power.
If the King will consent to send anyone to Flanders, Pole would prefer Cromwell, if he will come. Expresses his own gratitude to Cromwell for his kindness, and also to Morison himself "for so loving a stomach declared so manifestly and purely in so strange and dangerous time." Is rejoiced that he once showed a little kindness to Morison. Advises him to follow the loving instinct of his nature, for where other men get money, he gets men's hearts. Desires to be commended to master Steward, Belson (?), his brother and sister, and all his nephews. If my lord (Cromwell) shows Morison Throkemerton's letter, wishes to know how it was taken.
Hol., pp. 3. Add.: In casa dell Illmo Sor, Prive Seal, lorde Cromwel, Londra.
15 Feb.
Poli Epp. II. 19.
431. GASPAR CARD. CONTARINI to CARD. POLE.
I learnt from my servant, Louis Beccatello, that you, on the first day of your journey, felt somewhat indisposed, a thing which almost always happens to me. I should be more anxious but that I am sure you are guided by Almighty God, by whose aid you have escaped the tumults of your people that your work may be restored to Christendom, and especially to your own nation. Exhorts him strongly to follow the counsels of the bp. of Verona, a companion sent with him by God, in all that concerns his personal safety. Writes this because Louis says Pole was sometimes rather unwilling to follow Verona's advice as to his food and the eating of fish. Let him beware of doing anything but what Verona and Priolus have advised. Rome, 15 February 1537.
Lat.
15 Feb.
R. O.
St. P. VII. 672.
432. THE GENERAL COUNCIL.
Paul III. to Frederic duke of Mantua.
Reminds him that last year he indicted a General Council for this year. Desires him to prepare for its celebration on the 23rd May at Mantua, which he thinks a suitable place both because of its position and because of the goodwill of the Duke and his brother the cardinal of Mantua. Rome, 15 Feb. 1537, pont. 3. Blosius.
Copy. Lat., p. 1.
ii. The Duke's reply to the above.
Will do all in his power; but as the time is short would like the Pope to send some person of authority to arrange matters. Credence for his brother the Cardinal.
Copy. Italian, pp. 2.
15 Feb.
Baronius, XXXII. 452.
433. PAUL III. to JAMES V.
Is sending Reginald Pole, a cardinal of English birth, to England as legate, whom he wishes to speak with James on his way through France that he may urge his father-in-law Francis to a peace with the Emperor with a view to a General Council. Rome, 15 Feb. 1537, anno 3.
Lat.
15 Feb.
Ib. 453.
434. PAUL III. to FRANCIS I.
Requests him to favor the mission of Card. Pole to England, who is sent to confirm the piety of those who wish to live in the Catholic faith. Has desired him also to urge Francis to a peace with the Emperor. Rome, 15 Feb. 1537, anno 3.
Lat.
15 Feb.
Ib. 454.
435. PAUL III. to MARY OF HUNGARY. (fn. 5)
In behalf of Card. Pole, whom she will doubtless receive with honour, as his mission will be grateful to the Emperor and the king of the Romans. Rome, 15 Feb. 1537, anno 3.
Lat.

Footnotes

  • 1. Misread "France" in S.P.
  • 2. Count John Anthony de Campeggio, See No. 166.
  • 3. A great number of proceedings in Scotch suits at Rome will be found in Vol. XXXII. of the Vatican Transcripts in the Record Office.
  • 4. The modern endorsement is of course a blunder. But even the older and apparently contemporary endorsement is wrong if it apply to this letter, which is not a minute or draft, but a signed holograph. The flyleaf, however, seems to have belonged to some other document.
  • 5. Baronius gives on the same page the fragment of a letter of the Pope of the same date to Card. of Liege to supply Pole with money, if needful, to encourage the English Catholics.