Henry VIII: May 1536, 1-10

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 10, January-June 1536. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1887.

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'Henry VIII: May 1536, 1-10', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 10, January-June 1536, (London, 1887) pp. 329-349. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol10/pp329-349 [accessed 18 March 2024]

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May 1536, 1-10

1 May.
R. O.
778. John Salysbury to Cromwell.
After the death of my brother Sir Roger Salisbury, late steward of Denbighland, the offices of stewardship with fee of 40l., and custos rotulorum with 26s. 8d. fee, were given to Mr. Radclyf of the privy chamber before I came to the King, and by his goodness Radclyf was contented to bargain with me for the office, for which I paid him 400 marks. I put my brother Thomas in the patent with me, but with limitation not to meddle with the fees during my life. I now understand that Denbighland is made a shire by Parliament, (fn. 1) and there shall be a justice of assize, chancellor, &c., all of which offices were exercised by the steward without any greater charge to the King when the country was well ruled. I beg you will see that my fees are not diminished by the said Act. I still trust to do the King service, though I am somewhat acrazed. Denbigh, 1 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
1 May.
R. O.
779. John Graynfyld to Lord Lisle.
The King's journey to Dover is prolonged, and my brother Degory will bring you the certainty of the King's coming. My Lord (fn. 2) will not give me leave to visit you at this time. I will see you at Whitsuntide. Begs favor for Thos. Anseleye. London, 1 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add.
1 May.
R. O.
780. Lisle to Sir Anthony Windsor.
Cannot remember the bargain made with Rob. Gyllott and Rob. Bawdy (Gawdy), of the Isle of Purbeck, for slates for the King's storehouse at Portsmouth. Jas. Hawkysworthe has the papers. Send me word of what sum is owing to them. Calais, 1 May. Signed.
Memorandum below as to the same account.
P. 1. Add. Endd. in the same hand as the memorandum: "My lords byll for Purpege stone solde by Robarde Gyllott and Robarde Gawdye for the Kynges castell of Porchester for the storehouse there."
1 May.
R. O.
781. Jehan Ango to the Deputy of Calais.
Ryseban will tell you what I have done, and that what he asked has been explained to him, except the wool, which has been found to belong to a Fleming by the report even of the Englishmen who came with the said Ryseban. I wrote to you before that if I had the names and numbers of the hoys at Calais, they should not be stopped. I am informed a small ship laden with wood for Dover has been taken by my galleon. There was before one of this town attacked by men of Dover, and the men compelled to sell there. I beg you to order them not to give trouble, because I wish to bear with them as much as possible. Dieppe, 1 May. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.
2 May.
Vienna Archives.
782. Chapuys to Charles V.
Your Majesty will remember what I wrote about the beginning of last month, of the conversation I had with Cromwell about the divorce of this King from the Concubine. I have since heard the will of the Princess, by which, as I wrote, I meant to be guided, and which was that I should promote the matter, especially for the discharge of the conscience of the King her father, and that she did not care in the least if he had lawful heirs who would deprive her of the succession, nor for all the injuries done either to herself or to the Queen her mother, which, for the honor of God, she pardoned everyone most heartily. I accordingly used several means to promote the matter, both with Cromwell and with others, of which I have not hitherto written, awaiting some certain issue of the affair, which, in my opinion, has come to pass much better than anybody could have believed, to the great disgrace [of the Concubine], who by the judgment of God has been brought in full daylight from Greenwich to the Tower of London, conducted by the duke of Norfolk, the two Chamberlains, of the realm and of the chamber, and only four women have been left to her. The report is that it is for adultery, in which she has long continued, with a player on the spinnet of her chamber, who has been this morning lodged in the Tower, and Mr. Norris, the most private and familiar "somelier de corps" of the King, for not having revealed the matter.
The Concubine's brother, named Rochefort, has also been lodged in the Tower, but more than six hours after the others, and three or four before his sister; and even if the said crime of adultery had not been discovered, this King, as I have been for some days informed by good authority, had determined to abandon her; for there were witnesses testifying that a marriage passed nine years before had been made and fully consummated between her and the earl of Northumberland, and the King would have declared himself earlier, but that some one of his Council gave him to understand that he could not separate from the Concubine without tacitly confirming, not only the first marriage, but also, what he most fears, the authority of the Pope. These news are indeed new, but it is still more wonderful to think of the sudden' change from yesterday to today, and the manner of the departure from Greenwich to come hither; but I forbear particulars, not to delay the bearer, by whom you will be amply informed.
As to the matters of France, I think they are in no great favor here. The French ambassador had a courier on Saturday; nevertheless, either for pride or disdain, he let himself be sent for twice before he would go to Court, from which he returned not over well pleased. The English had despatched a courier to France eight days ago, but they sent in great haste to recall him, and I have not heard that they have sent any one since. London, 2 May, Eve of the Invention of Holy Cross, 1536.
Fr., from a modern copy, pp. 2.
2 May.
Vienna Archives.
783. Chapuys to [Granvelle].
You will learn by my letters to His Majesty, and by the report of the bearer, all that I could write. Refers it to Granvelle's consideration whether, under these altered circumstances, and the change made in the articles which the King proposes to print and to observe, the Emperor will be able to augment his kindness to the writer. London, 2 May 1536.
Does not wish to omit that "nen pour riens" told him on the Eve of St. Matthias, and Cromwell since, that he hath done and would do marvels.
Fr., from a modern copy, p. 1.
2 May.
Add. MS. 28,588, f. 260. B. M.
784. Anne Boleyn.
"Las nuevas de Ynglaterra de la presion de la Manceba del Rey."
The Emperor has letters from England of 2 May, stating that the mistress of the king of England, who is called queen, had been put in the Tower for adultery with an organist of her chamber, and the King's most private "sommelier de corps." Her brother is imprisoned for not giving information of her crime. It is said that, even if it had not been discovered, the King had determined to leave her, as he had been informed that she had consummated a marriage with the earl of Nortemberlano (Northumberland) nine years ago.
Sp., p. 1, modern copy.
Add. MS. 25,056 a. f. 4. B. M. 2. Another modern copy of the same. P. 1.
2 May.
R. O.
785. Roland Bulkeley to Sir Ric. Bulkeley, Chamberlain of North Wales.
Commendations to Sir Ric. (his brother) and his lady. The Queen is in the Tower, with the earl of Wiltshire, lord Rochford, Mr. Norres, one master Markes, one of the King's privy chamber, and sundry ladies. The cause is high treason, that is to say, "that maister Norres shulde have a do wythe the Queyne, and Markes and the other acsesari to the sayme. The arre lyke to suffyre, all ther morre is the pitte."
Begs him to come to the King as soon as he can, for he can do more than 20 in his absence, and to make haste, and be there before any word be of their death. "When it is ones knone that ye shall dede all wylbe to latte." Asks him to keep this letter close. Grays Inn, 2 May.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
2 May.
R. O.
786. Lord William Howard to Cromwell.
Requests a passport for John Thornton, parson of Benholme, prothonotary apostolic, who is going to France on the King's message. Edinburgh, 2 May.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: To Master Secretary. Endd.
2 May.
R. O.
787. Sir Anthony Babyngton to Cromwell.
The abbot of Bello Capite in Derbyshire is dead. Babyngton is one of the founders. "For the which your mastership was content a commission to have been granted in Lenten now last past, but for the bill that came of augmentation you bade to stay," till it was seen whether the house was to stand. My son John, your servant, was then appointed one of the commissioners. I beg, if other houses may stand by composition or pleasure of the King, that this may do so likewise. If it may, "for my wife's ancestors there lying, I will give your mastership 5 fodder lead, and my daily service at commandment in these parts." Will write to no other. 2 May, 28 Hen. VIII.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Sealed. Endd.
2 May.
R. O.
788. Thomas Stydolf to Cromwell.
Yesterday, the 1 May, Chr. Colyn, bargeman, lying in wait at even in Old Hithe adjoining Walton Mede, met with a damsel 12 or 13 years old, named Alice Haymond, servant to John Machyn of Weybridge, bargeman, riding on horseback with two bushels of corn under her to Mulsey mylne. He plucked her from her horse by force, carried her into a wood, called Low wood, and taking from her, with extreme violence, a knife, pricked her in the flesh in divers places constraining her to ravishment. After his pleasure had, he took from her purse 5d. in money and a nutmeg; then, intending to murder her, he gave her many blows with his staff, supposing to have left her there dead, so that a more piteous creature being alive no man could behold. Leaving her in this case he came to Walton; and shortly after, one Thos. West, of Walton, smith, went to look upon his cow pasturing in a common pasture called Cowey, and hearing a piteous noise he approached and found her in a ditch, and with the help of one Thos. Colyar, took her up, and set her on horseback, and so brought her to Walton. There being in the street more than 100 young people, and he being one, she pointed her finger at him, saying, "Thou art he who ravished and killed me." When he was brought before me he confessed the whole truth. I have not yet committed him to gaol, till I know your pleasure whether you will have a commission directed here to Mr. Danaster, and such as you shall please, that the party may suffer here where the deed was done, as an example to vagrant and suspected persons in these parts, of whom we have too many. Ham Court, Tuesday, 2 May.
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
2 May.
R. O.
789. Thos. Warley to Lady Lisle.
I was at Lincoln's Inn on Saturday last with my master, your son, who is in good health and desires your blessing, which he is worthy to have, as he is a towardly gentleman and a wise. As I knew that two gentlemen of the Inner Temple, named Nedam, died last week of the sickness, I advised Mr. Basset to go to Mr. Danaster's in the country; but he said he was not afraid, and was far enough from the contagious air, and would wait till your Ladyship sends him a gelding. Bremelcome, who waits on him, is an honest man and gives diligent attendance. Mr. Danastre thanks you for the wine and other pleasures, and says if he sees any danger he will remove Mr. Bassett.
Water Skynner, who was post to the Lord Chancellor, came over in good season, for on Sunday before mass the King made him post for the abbeys which are to be put down, with fees and wages as other posts, which he had not before. I send by Burdoke, of Calais, a letter from Mr. Wait, of the Temple. I did not know of Mr. Huggan's death till Mr. Vice-treasurer was departed. If I had, I would have proved him for the room, and given him a satin gown. I wrote by Collins that the King would have been at Rochester tonight, but he has changed his mind, which was not known till Sunday at 11 o'clock, and will go to Dover next week. The Council sit daily, so that suitors must abide their good hour. I delivered an abridgement and particulars of my bill of supplication to the King. I live in hope, fed with sweet words, and make all the means I can to be despatched. I trust my Lord and you will take no displeasure at my long absence, which is sore against my will. The arbitrators between Hastyngs and me find that he is indebted to me, but they stay to make their award, as he says he cannot pay. "Robert Whettell brags freshly in the court in a coat of crimson taffata, cut and lined with yellow sarcenet, a shirt wrought with gold, his hosen scarlet, the breeches crimson velvet, cut and edged and lined with yellow sarcenet, his shoes crimson velvet, and likewise his sword, girdle, and scabbard, a cloak of red frisado, a scarlet cap, with feathers red and yellow; he hath many lookers on." Lovell's room, for which I labored to my Lord and you, has been given since my being here. I am sorry to hear of the sickness in Calais. London, 2 May 1536.
Here is a priest named Sir Ric. Chicheley, B.D., well seen in physic, astronomy, and surgery, and can sing his plain song well, and is well apparelled. He would fain serve my Lord and you in Calais, if you would help him to a chantry and meat and drink. He demands no more. If he were there, I think Philbert and he would reason of physic. Also, he says, he is cunning in stilling of waters.
Hol., pp. 4. Add.: In Calais.
2 May.
R. O.
790. John Poyntz to Sir Wm. Kyngston.
Encloses a little broken bill, given him on Friday last by certain men of the parish of Wotton-under-Edge, touching words spoken by John Plommer. He denies saying, "there shall be a new world or midsummer day;" but he said he hoped there should be a new order or midsummer day; meaning that the King at his Parliament would make some order of punishment for those who neither fast nor pray.
Sends another bill given him today by the mayor and others of Wotton. They say great troubles are lately risen in the town by reason of divers opinions. As Master Antony, Sir William's son, is steward there, he may send some discreet men to order these matters without further business, as the bearer, Thos. Byshop, can show. Alderlay, 2 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Controller of the King's Household. Endd.
R. O. 791. Richard Staverton to Cromwell.
It pleased you to write to me of your good will to my preferment. Various offenders have been committed to the Tower, among others Master Henry Norris, who has various rooms in the parts about me near Windsor, for which I hope you will have me in remembrance. He has the Little Park, the Park of Holy John (Foly John), Perlam (Perlaunt) Park, and the room of the Black Rod, in Windsor Castle, which I shall be glad to have, as I have 14 children.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Mr. Secretary. Endd.
3 May.
Otho, C. x. 226. B. M. Burnet, i. 320.
792. [Cranmer to Henry VIII.]
Have come to Lambeth, according to Mr. Secretary's letters, to know your Grace's pleasure. Dare not, contrary to the said letters, presume to come to your presence, but of my bounden duty I beg you "somewhat to suppress the deep sorrows of your Grace's heart," and take adversity patiently. Cannot deny that you have great causes of heaviness, and that your honor is highly touched. God never sent you a like trial; but if He find you no less patient and thankful than when all things succeeded to your wish, I suppose you never did thing more acceptable to Him. You will give Him occasion to increase His benefits, as He did to Job. If the reports of the Queen be true, they are only to her dishonor, not yours. I am clean amazed, for I had never better opinion of woman; but I think your Highness would not have gone so far if she had not been culpable. I was most bound to her of all creatures living, and therefore beg that I may, with your Grace's favor, wish and pray that she may declare herself innocent. Yet if she be found guilty, I repute him not a faithful subject who would not wish her punished without mercy. "And as I loved her not a little for the love which I judged her to bear towards God and His Gospel, so if she be proved culpable there is not one that loveth God and His Gospel that ever will favor her, but must hate her above all other; and the more they favor the Gospel the more they will hate her, for then there was never creature in our time that so much slandered the Gospel; and God hath sent her this punishment for that she feignedly hath professed his Gospel in her mouth and not in heart and deed." And though she have so offended, yet God has shown His goodness towards your Grace and never offended you. "But your Grace, I am sure, knowledgeth that you have offended Him." I trust, therefore, you will bear no less zeal to the Gospel than you did before, as your favor to the Gospel was not led by affection to her. Lambeth, 3 May.
Since writing, my lords Chancellor, Oxford, Sussex, and my Lord Chamberlain of your Grace's house, sent for me to come to the Star Chamber, and there declared to me such things as you wished to make me privy to. For this I am much bounden to your Grace. They will report our conference. I am sorry such faults can be proved against the Queen as they report.
Hol. Mutilated. Endd.
[3 May.]
Otho, C. x. 225. B. M. Ellis, i Ser. II. 53. Singer's Cavendish, ii. 217.
793. Sir William Kingston to [Cromwell]. (fn. 3)
On my lord of Norfolk and the King's Council departing from the Tower, I went before the Queen into her lodging. She said unto me, "Mr. Kingston, shall I go into a dungeon?" I said, "No, Madam. You shall go into the lodging you lay in at your coronation." "It is too g[ood] for me, she said; Jesu have mercy on me;" and kneeled down, weeping a [good] pace, and in the same sorrow fell into a great laughing, as she has done many times since. "She desyred me to move the Kynges hynes that she [might] have the sacarment in the closet by hyr chamber, that she my[ght pray] for mercy, for I am as clere from the company of man as for s[in as I] am clear from you, and am the Kynges trew wedded wyf. And then s[he said], Mr. Kynston, do you know wher for I am here? and I sayd, Nay. And th[en she asked me], When saw you the Kynge? and I sayd I saw hym not syns I saw [him in] the Tylte Yerde. And then, Mr. K., I pray you to telle me wher my [Lord, my fa]der, ys? And I told hyr I saw hym afore dyner in the Cort. O[where is m]y sweet broder? I sayd I left hym at York Place; and so I dyd. I [hear say, sai]d she, that I shuld be accused with iij. men; and I can say [no more but] nay, withyowt I shuld oppen my body. And ther with opynd her gown. O, No[res], hast thow accused me? Thow ar in the Towre with me, [and thow and I shall] dy together; and, Marke, thow art here to. O, my mother, [thou wilt die with] sorow; and myche lamented my lady of Worceter, for by c[ause that her child di]d not store in hyre body. And my wyf sayd, what shuld [be the cause? And she sai]d, for the sorow she toke for me. And then she sayd, Mr. [Kyngston, shall I die with]yowt justes? And I sayd, the porest sugett the Ky[ng hath, hath justice. And t]her with she lawed. Alle thys sayinges was yesterny[ght] . . . . . . . . . . and thys mornyng dyd talke with Mestrys Co[fyn. (fn. 4) And she said, Mr. Norr]es dyd say on Sunday last unto the Quenes am[ner that he would s]vere for the Quene that she was a gud woman. [And then said Mrs.] Cofyn, Madam, Why shuld ther be hony seche maters [spoken of? Marry,] sayd she, I bad hym do so: for I asked hym why he [did not go through with] hys maryage, and he made ansure he wold tary [a time. Then I said, Y]ou loke for ded men's showys, for yf owth ca[m to the King but good], you would loke to have me. And he sayd yf he [should have any such thought] he wold hys hed war of. And then she sayd [she could undo him if she wou]ld; and ther with thay felle yowt, bot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . and sayd on Wysson Twysday (fn. 5) last . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . that Nores cam more . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . age and further * * *
"Wher I was commaunded to charge the gentelwomen that gyfes thayr atendans apon the Quene, that ys to say thay shuld have now (i.e., no) commynycasion with hyr in lese my wyf ware present; and so I dyd hit, notwithstandynge it canot be so, for my lady Bolen and Mestrys Cofyn lyes on the Quenes palet, and I and my wyf at the dore with yowt, so at thay must nedes talke at be within; (fn. 6) bot I have every thynge told me by Mestrys Cofyn that she thinkes met for you (fn. 7) to know, and tother ij. gentelweymen lyes withyowt me, and as I may knowe t[he] Kynges plesure in the premysses I shalle folow. From the Towre, thys morny[ng].
"Sir, syns the makynge of thys letter the Quene spake of Wes[ton, saying that she] had spoke to hym bycause he did love hyr kynswoman [Mrs. Skelton, and] sayd he loved not hys wyf, and he made ansere to hyr [again that h]e loved wone in hyr howse better then them bothe. And [the Queen said, Who is] that? It ys yourself. And then she defyed hym, as [she said to me]. Will'm Kyngston."
Hol.
3 May.
Rot. Reg. 11 B. xlvii. B. M.
794. Wardrobe Stuff [of Henry Norris].
A remain taken at Parland of garderobe stuff, the 10th day of December 25 Hen. VIII., by Master Richard Morgan, Edmund Harman, John Barnard (?), and Thos. Frere, and in the charge of the said Thos. Frere.
And a view taken thereof, 3 May, by Mr. Draper, John Dorsett, and Thos. Frere, 28 Hen. VIII. Being an inventory of hangings, curtains, feather beds, &c. in various chambers. Some of the articles came from Kew (fn. 8) and Greenwich. Signed at the end by Thomas Frere and Christopher Draper.
Two rotulets of paper, written on both sides.
3 May.
R. O.
795. Antonio Bonvisi to Cromwell.
I received by the English ambassadors on the 25th your letter, and learn by it and by Francesco Piamontese your welfare. As to the peace, the answer of the cardinal of Lorraine is expected in three or four days. Five days ago there arrived a post despatched from Rome by the ambassador of his Majesty here to the King. Two days ago two posts came to the Imperial ambassador, the one before dinner and the other after; and on receiving the last, though unwell, he immediately mounted horse and rode to Court. Before he left, he said there would be war; and the Portuguese ambassador, who was with him, has great fear of it, saying that they refuse all reasonable offers. A German merchant has brought word that Germany is all in arms, and 28,000 or 30,000 lances were already on the road to Italy. Speaks of the assembling of troops in various parts, as a war is imminent. The lords of Germany are very ill satisfied with the French King for spoiling the duchy of Savoy and for being in league with the Turk, saying that if he do not retrace his steps, they will make him repent it. The canton of Zurich have refused to serve the Emperor, as they receive a pension from France. The Lutheran cantons will not serve the French in Italy, as their preachers say they must not fight, but only stand on the defensive; and the Catholic cantons, being afraid of being weakened, will also stop at home.
The Admiral has taken Ivrea, in Savoy.
The Imperial post says that De Leva has written to the Admiral, who thereupon withdrew to Turin. De Leva will go to Milan, and this seems favorable to peace; but reports are very contradictory. Varcelli is fortified, and has within it 5,000 foot, 2,000 lances, 2,000 Italians, and 1,000 Spaniards. The Imperialists will defend it as a member of the duchy of Milan, which they say was first pledged and afterwards redeemed. The Turk has put to death his kinsman Inbrai Basca, in anger at his fleet not being ready. Sends enclosed the discourses (ragionamenti) of the Emperor in consistory, and the reply of the bishop of Rome and of M. de Vigli, the French ambassador. He shows great goodness in offering to expose his person to fight for the salvation of Christendom. Has this report from a personage who was present on the occasion and is favorable to the King. Thinks there is little hope of an agreement, as they would not take the duchy as offered for Angoulême, with the security of the King and his confederates. Further news of Genoa and the restitution of the duke of Savoy. Hopes he will take in hand to do what is best for Christendom. Lyons, 2 May 1536.
P.S. 3 May.—Hears that the bishop of Rome has said in Consistory that if Francis would not be content to take the duchy of Milan for M. d'Angoulesme, peace could not be made. He was waiting for the cardinal of Lorraine, who was at Viterbo, who was to leave for Bologna on the 10th inst.
The Admiral, it is said positively, will return hither and his men withdraw. They have fortified Turin, but there is some danger they may lack victuals. It is said Stefane Colonna will remain governor of Piedmont, or else the marquis of Saluzzo. The camp is not in the best order, and they are in some difficulty for victuals by the non-arrival of the French lances, &c. Signed.
Pp. 4. Add. Endd.
3 May.
R. O. St. P. vii. 650.
796. Sir G. de Casale to [Cromwell].
The card of Lorraine has left in haste. The Pope tried to persuade him that Francis ought to accept peace on the condition that the duke of Angoulême should have Milan, especially as the Emperor has many friends and few enemies likely to help France. He thinks Francis is drawn to his ruin by fate, and everyone thinks it madness in him to lose the chance of peace, for he is much weaker than he was two years ago.
By the news from Constantinople, it is not likely that the Turks will attack the Emperor this year. Barbaressa has gone to Rhodes, not to make war, but to protect the coast. The Persians continue to harass the Turks. The Emperor has prepared a great army. The French have made a mistake in allowing him so much time to do it. The card. of Lorraine told the Pope that the king of England was acting with Francis in everything. Both the Cardinal and the French ambassador complained that several cardinals had reported that Casale and his colleague had said that the Emperor and the French king were friends, and showed that they wished rather the opposite to be said. Denied that he had said anything of the sort. Knows what they want him to say, but will not say it; for it would be contrary to what the King told them to say to the Emperor. The Cardinal, on leaving, asked him to write that he had returned to the French king on the business of peace, and would inform the king of England of whatever was done.
The Pope does not think the Dauphin will be sent with the army by his father, but the duke of Orleans.
Hears from the Pope's secretary that an Englishman, named Philip, aspires to the Pope's friendship by means of card. Caracciolo, who commends him as learned and noble, and as a kinsman of Thos. More's, now persecuted by the King for asserting the authority of the Holy See. Casale's colleague said he had letters from the King, ordering him to speak of this man to the Emperor. Told the Secretary that this man was of humble birth, and a great scoundrel, and if he make way in the Court all the thieves in England will come too, and say they were driven out for the sake of the Holy See. He was obliged for the hint. Will speak of it also to card. Caracciolo and other cardinals. Sends a copy of his letter of May 1. Rome, 3 May 1536. Signed.
Lat., pp. 5. Endd.
— May.
Otho. C. x. 224b. B. M. Ellis, 1 Ser. ii. 59. Singer's Cavendish, ii. 223.
797. Sir Wm. Kyngston to Cromwell. (fn. 9)
"Sir, the Quene hathe meche desyred to have here in the closet the sacarment and also hyr amner, who she supposeth to be devet, for won owre she ys determyned to dy and the next owre meche contrary to that. Yesterday after your departynge I sent for my wyf and also for Mestrys Coffyn to know how the had done that day; thay sayd she had bene very mery, and made a gret dyner, and yet sone after she called for hyr supper, havynge marvelle wher I was alle day. And after supper she sent for me; and at my comynge she sayd, Wher have you bene alle day? And I mad ansure I had bene with prisoners. So, she sayd, I thowth I hard Mr. Tresure[r]. I ansured he was not here. Then she be gan talke, and sayd I was creuely handeled a . . . . a Greweche with the Kynges consell with my lord of Norfolke, that he sayd Tut, [tut, tut!], and shakyng hyr hed iii. or iiij. tymes, and as for master Tresurer he was in the [forest of Windsor; y]ou know what she meynes by that; and named Mr. Controler to be a very ge[ntleman. But s]he to be a Quene, and creuely handeled as was never sene; bot I th[ink the King d]ose it to prove me;—and dyd lawth with alle and was very mery. And then s[he said, I shall have ju]stes. And then I sayd, Have now dowt therin. Then she sayd, Yf hony man acuse [me I can say but n]ay; and thay can bringe now wytnes; and she had talked with the gentel . . . . . . . . . . sayd I knew at Markes comynge to the Towre that nyght. I reysayved . . . . . . . . . . . at it was X. of the cloke or he ware welle loged; and then she sayd . . . . . . . e knew of Nores goynge to the Towre, and then she sayd I hold . . . . . . . . . . . . . next yf it had bene leyd she had wone; (fn. 10) and then she sayd, I wo[uld to God I had m]y bysshoppys, for thay wold alle go to the Kynge for me, for I thy[nk the most part of] Yngland prays for me. and yf I dy you shalle se the grettes[t punishment for me] within thys vij. yere that ever cam to Yngland. And the[n, she said, shall I be in Heaven, for] I have done mony gud dedys in my days, bot zit I thynke [much unkindness in the] Kynge to put seche abowt me as I never loved. I showe[d her that the Kyng took them] to be honest and gud wemmen. Bot I wold have had [of my own privy cham]bre weche I favor most, &c. Will'm Kyngston."
Hol. Add.: To Master Secretory. Endd.
[— May.]
Otho, C. x. 222. B. M. Singer's Cavendish, ii. 220. Ellis, I. Ser. ii. 56.
798. Sir Wm. Kyngston to Cromwell. (fn. 11)
"After your departynge yesterday Greneway, gentelman yssher, cam to . . . . . . . . . Mr. Caro and Master Bryan commaunded hym in the Kynges name to my . . . . . . . . Ratchfort from my Lady hys wyf and the message was now more . . . . . . . . . . se how he dyd and also she wold humly sut unto the Kynges hy[nes] . . . . . . . . for hyr husband, and so he gaf hyr thankes and desyred me to kno . . . . . . . . . tyme he shuld cum affore the Kynges consell, for I thynk I . . . . . . . . . . . cum forthe tylle I cum to my jogement, wepynge very . . . . . . . . . . . . I departed from hym, and when I cam to the chambre the . . . . . . . . . . . . . of me and sent for me, and sayd, I here say my Lord my . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . here; it ys trowth, sayd I. I am very glad, sayd s[he] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bothe be so ny to gether, and I showed hyr here was . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weston and Brerton, and she made very gud contenans . . . . . . . . I also sayd Mr. Page and Wyet wase mo then she sayd he ha . . . . . . . . . . one hys fyst tother day and ys here now bot ma . . . . . . . . . . . . . I shalle desyre you to bayre a letter from me . . . . . . . . . . [to Master] Secretory. And then I sayd, Madam, telle it me by [word of mouth, and I] wille do it. And so gaf me thankes, sayinge I ha[ve much marvel] that the Kynges conselle commes not to me and thys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [she] sayd we shuld have now rayne tyll she ware [delivered out] of the Towre. I pray you it may be shortly, by [cause, said I, of the] fayre wether; you know what I mayne. The Que[ne said unto me that same] nyght that the Kyng wyst what he dyd w[hen he put such] ij. abowt hyr as my lady Boleyn and Mestres [Cofyn; for] thay cowd tell her now thynge of my [Lord her father, nor] nothynge ellys, bot she defyed them alle. [But then upon this my lady Boleyn] sayd to hyr, Seche desyre as you have h[ad to such tales] hase browthe you to thys, and then sayd [Mrs. Stoner, Mark] ys the worst cherysshe of hony m[an in the house, for he w]ayres yernes. She sayd that was [because he was no gen]telman; bot he wase never in [my chamber but at Winchester, and there] she sent for hym to pl[ay on the virginals, for there my] logynge wa[s above the King's] * * for I never spake with hym syns bot upon Saterday before Mayday; and then I fond hym standyng in the ronde wyndo in my chambre of presens. And I asked why he wase so sad, and he ansured and sayd it was now mater; and then she sayd, You may not loke to have me speke to you as I shuld do to a nobulle man by cause you be aninferor [pe]rson. No, no, madam, a loke sufficed me, and thus fare you welle. [Sh]e hathe asked my wyf whether hony body makes thayr beddes, [and m]y wyf ansured and sayd, Nay, I warant you; then she say[d tha]y myght make balettes well now, bot ther ys non bot . . . . . . de that can do it. Yese, sayd my wyf, Master Wyett by . . . . . . . sayd trew. . . . . . my Lorde my broder wille dy . . . ne I am sure thys was as . . . tt downe to dener thys day. Will'm Kyngston.
f. 222*b. . . . thys day at diner I sent Mr. Nores hys diner, and sent hy . . . . . . . a knave to hys prest that wayted apon hym in the . . . . . . . . t unto hym, and he ansured hym ag . . . . . . . . . ny thyng of my confession he ys worthy to have . . . . . . . . t, I defy hym and also he desyreth to have . . . . . . . . f avowre yf it may be the Kynges plesu[re].
"Wittm. [Kyngston]."
Hol. Add.: To Master Secretory.
Otho, C. x.
209 b. B. M. Singer's Cavendish, ii. 225. Ellis, 1 Ser. ii. 61.
799. Sir Edwa[rd Baynton] to Mr. Treasurer [Fitzwilliam?].
There is much communication that no man will confess anything against her, but only Marke of any actual thing. It would, in my foolish conceit, much touch the King's honor if it should no further appear. I cannot believe but that the other two are as f[ully] culpable as he, but they keep each other's counsel. I think much of the communication which took place on the last occasion between the Queen and Master Norres. Mr. Almoner [told] me that I might speak with Mr. S[ecretary] and you, and more plainly express my opinion in case they have confessed "like wret . . . . all things as they should do than my n . . . . at a point." I have mused much at [the conduct] of Mrs. Margery, who hath used her[self] strangely toward me of late, being her friend as I have been. There has been great friendship of late between the Queen and her. I hear further that the Queen standeth stiffly in her opinion, that she wi[ll not be convicted], which I think is in the trust that she [hath in the o]ther two. I will gladly wait upon you. Greenwich, . . . . morning. Signed.
Mutilated.
4 May.
R. O.
800. Harry Capell to Cromwell.
Desires to have in farm the possessions of the small house of nuns called Barrowe, (fn. 12) now granted to the King by this Parliament. The monastery is near his own dwelling-house. Will be glad to recompense Cromwell for his assistance in this. Obley, 4 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Secretary. Sealed. Endd.
4 May.
R. O.
801. R. Morison to Starkey.
I will not thank you now for the pains you take in my causes. I am preparing to come and thank you coram. Excuse brevity, I am so busy, and pray deliver this my letter to Mr. Secretary. Venice, 4 May.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Clariss. viro Thomæ Starchæo, in utroque jure doctori, &c., Londini.
4 [May].
Lamb. M.S. 603. f. 77 a.
802. Ireland.
Treaty between lord Leonard Gray and Felom Ruffus O'Neyle, brother of Nelan Magnus O'Neyle, who promises to be the King's faithful subject, to join hostings, &c., 1 May 28 Hen. VIII. Dublin, 4 [May] 28 Hen. VIII.
Lat., contemporary copy, pp. 2.
4 May.
R. O.
803. Edmond Harvel to Starkey.
Asks him to continue sending "vulgar news" and good news of his own success, which Harvel desires both on account of their friendship and Starkey's virtues. Cannot be with him before this new spring following. "Then will I depart, if I should ruinate myself for ever." Is so homesick that he cannot bear absence longer. Venice, 4 May 1536.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Londini.
5 May.
R. O.
804. Longland Bishop of Lincoln to Cromwell.
Received his letters yesterday at 5 p.m., concerning the farm of the prebend of Mariston for Rauff Sadeler. Has written to the incumbent.
If it is true that Norrys has not used himself according to his duty to his sovereign lord, offers Cromwell the stewardship of the University of Oxford, if he will accept so small a fee as 5l. When the duke of Suffolk exchanged his lands in Oxfordshire with the King, he gave up the stewardship of Banbury to the behoof of Norris, on condition that in the new grant to Norris he might be joined with him for the longest liver. Advises Cromwell to ask the Duke to give up his interest in it. The fee is only 6l. 13s. 4d. Will then give Cromwell a new patent.
Sent him Barnes' book, that when Cromwell's great business of the term is past he might read the "supplication"; and see, besides his charity and discretion, what effect the whole book draws unto.
Sir Swynnerton has been preaching in these parts, and offends the people, for he lacks learning, knowledge of his doctors and discretion, and, as some report, his living is not all the best. He preaches sometimes on work days and twice a day. His sermons are not fruitful, but rather seditious, and he preaches on those doubtful matters which were forbidden to be touched till the determinations were published. When he is told that he ought not to speak of such things, he answers that he knows the King's mind. He resorts to light people and to their houses, who leave their worldly labor and read English books all day, so that they fall into poverty and idleness, and assemble many times together. Wherever this priest preaches they have monition one from another, though it be six or eight miles off, to be with him. There have been robberies lately, and some conjecture they are committed by such idle people. If he had not licence under the King's seal people would not admit him, nor hear him. He was lately but Erisby's clerk, and, the Bishop thinks, was never at a university. He is now gone to London, and would have preached at Wooborn on Holy Rood Day, but Longland occupied the place himself.
A Black Friar at Oxford, named Threder, is deceiving people by conjuration and invocation of spirits for goods lost, and finding goods in the ground. Divers crosses have lately been cast down to dig for money. Suggests that the commissary of Oxford should be ordered to search his chambers for books and send him up. Encloses a copy of a letter from him to one Fisher.
Master Warde, the King's servant, can tell Cromwell about an attempted robbery of a parson at Windsor. One of the suspected persons to whom he spoke said he (Ward) had nought to do or to meddle in Bucks. Advises that Ward should be a justice in Bucks as well as Berks. Wooborn, 5 May. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add.: Master Secretary. Endd.
5 May.
R. O.
805. Richard Bulkeley to Cromwell.
Dan Richard Ris, monk of Conwey, N. Wales, is making suit to be abbot. The present abbot opposes it, knowing him to be a wilful and misruled person, who would utterly destroy the abbey. Begs his favor for David Owen, who is meet to be ruler, and to whom the present abbot will resign. If you consent, you shall have 100l. for your pains at any day you appoint. I will send you a bill of an annuity of 20l. during my life. Denbigh, 5 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Secretary. Sealed. Endd.
5 May.
R. O.
806. The Earl of Derby's Servants.
Before my Lord Chancellor, Master Secretary, and Master Comptroller, 5 May 28 Hen. VIII. Deposition of Robt. Thornell, servant to the earl of Derby, touching an affray made by one Wasshyngton upon his fellows at Candlemas last. After the first fray upon Washington the two Gerards never strake at him, wherefore my Lord was angry, and put them out of his service, saying if they would not fight they were not meet to serve him. Item, he says he told Mr. Secretary he was sent for Alexander Banester to Lincolnshire before Easter last, to bring up my Lord's rent. Went also to visit his wife, who is but 14 years old. Examined on oath, he denies this deposition.
ii. Deposition of Alex. Banester, reporting his dealings with Thornell in London, who drew his sword upon him in St. Paul's churchyard, and so commenced the fray.
Mostly in Cromwell's hand, pp. 3. Endd.
5 May.
R. O.
807. Ordnance at Calais.
Ordnance, artillery, &c., in Calais, viewed by Sir Chr. Morrys, 5 May 28 Hen. VIII., as appears by indentures between him and the Lord Deputy.
The guns number 38, comprising sacres, falcons, culverins, bastard culverins, mortars, and serpentines, some being "Norborgh (Nuremberg) peces." Their positions are on the Lantern Gate, the second tower from the Lantern Gate, Bechamp's Tower, the vault of Our Lady Tower, the tower next to Our Lady Tower, and the new tower next to that, the bulwark without Mylke Gate, next the turnpike, the Mount at Dublyn Tower, Dublyn Tower, the three towers next to it, Maides Tower, the mount next Kyrbis Tower, the half tower next to it, the West Brayes next the Water Gate, the three mounts near thereto, and the loops of the said brayes.
In the store house of the said brayes, a great plough garnished with iron, gunstocks, cart bodies, shod wheels, "extres" (axletrees), and a rolling gin.
In the King's foundry, 35 double cannons, demy cannons, portpieces, &c., 110 hand-guns, shovels, tampions, &c.
In the yard of the ordnance house, 25 brass mortars, stone and iron shot, and a sow of lead.
In the same house of ordnance at Bullen Gate, 2,740 good yew bows, others "wrax and nothing worth," bowstrings and arrows, iron shot for "rabykyns" and other cannon, and dice of iron for sacres and hackbusshes, 152 hackbusshes, Flemish halberts, Welsh glaives, "holy water sprinkels," "twibles," shevers of brass, iron lymmer pins, &c., saltpetre, sulphur and coal powder, spear heads, horseshoes and nails, buckets, spades shod with iron, shovels, ropes, lattes galtropes and palyng galtropes, archers' stakes, iron bolts, headstalls, bits, saddletrees, &c.
In the store house, over against the house of ordnance, 16 double cannons, culverins of Hans Pupurtter's (fn. 13) making, and mortars, iron shot, spears unheaded after the North fashion, Cullyn clyfts, &c.
In the whole town, 30 lasts of serpentine powder.
In Portsmouth, 14 cannons, demi-cannons, portpieces, slings and fowlers.
In the tower at Portsmouth, a brass piece of Venice-making, 2 falcons and 2 port pieces, bows, strings, and arrows, bills, morris pikes and archer stakes.
In Rye and the bulwark there, 19 cannons, culverins, and demi-culverins, sacres, portpieces, double serpentines and fowlers, gunpowder, bows, strings, and arrows, black bills, and morris pikes.
Pp. 10.
6 May.
Otho, C. x. 228, B. M. Hearne's Sylloge, 111. Burnet, iv. 291.
808. Anne Boleyn (fn. 14) to Henry VIII.
"Your Grace's displeasure and my imprisonment are things so strange unto me as what to write or what to excuse I am altogether ignorant. Whereas you sent unto me, willing me to confess a truth and so to obtain your favour, by such an one whom you know to be my ancient professed enemy, I no sooner received this message by him than I rightly conceived your meaning; and if, as you say, confessing a truth indeed may procure my safety, I shall with all willingness and duty perform your command." But do not imagine that your poor wife will ever confess a fault which she never even imagined. Never had prince a more dutiful wife than you have in Anne Boleyn, "with which name and place I could willingly have contented myself if God and your Grace's pleasure had so been pleased." Nor did I ever so far forget myself in my exaltation but that I always looked for such an alteration as now; my preferment being only grounded on your Grace's fancy. You chose me from a low estate, and I beg you not to let an unworthy stain of disloyalty blot me and the infant Princess your daughter. Let me have a lawful trial, and let not my enemies be my judges. Let it be an open trial, I fear no open shames, and you will see my innocency cleared or my guilt openly proved; in which case you are at liberty both to punish me as an unfaithful wife, and to follow your affection, already settled on that party for whose sake I am now as I am, "whose name I could somewhile since have pointed unto, your Grace being not ignorant of my suspicion therein." But if you have already determined that my death and an infamous slander will bring you the enjoyment of your desired happiness, then I pray God he will pardon your great sin, and my enemies, the instruments thereof. My innocence will be known at the Day of Judgment. My last request is that I alone may bear the burden of your displeasure, and not those poor gentlemen, who, I understand, are likewise imprisoned for my sake. "If ever I have found favor in your sight, if ever the name of Anne Boleyn has been pleasing in your ears, let me obtain this request, and so I will leave to trouble your Grace any further."
From my doleful prison in the Tower, 6 May,
In an Elizabethan hand. (fn. 15) Pp. 2, mutilated.
[6 May.]
R. O. St. P. v. 44.
809. [Henry VIII. to James V.]
Has received his letters [dated at —, the — April (fn. 16) ], desiring that their interview might be deferred and held at another place than was agreed both by the English ambassadors with James and by Sir Adam Otterburn. As Henry desired no advantage from this meeting except the satisfaction of their mutual feelings, fears this alteration has been owing to those who would hinder what they dare not directly oppose. Proposes that it should take place at York, as the place most indifferent, 14 days before Michaelmas, or else be deferred to next year.
Draft in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 7. Endd.: The minutes of the letters for my lord William's return from Scotland, &c.
6 May.
R. O.
810. [Henry VIII.] to Lord William Howard and the Bishop of St. David's.
Perceives by their letters, and by others received from the king of Scots, that he will neither keep his appointment for the meeting at York, which he desires altered to Newcastle, nor at the time agreed. Has written in answer that if he will not have it at York, Henry will defer to another season, but is willing to meet him there 14 days before Michaelmas. You are to solicit his determination in this, and if you find him vary in any point "from our decree and sentence," you are to say that our affairs will not permit us to make any other arrangement; and, without giving them occasion to think that we agreed to it before for any other reason than for our desire of his personal acquaintance, you shall say that next year or some other time the matter can be brought to effect, and take your leave. If they seem willing to agree you are to press them to write it so certainly that there be no more alterations. Westm., 6 May.
Draft in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 3. Endd.: vith of May. The K. Matie to the L. William Howard and the Bishop of St. David's.
6 May.
R. O.
811. Sir E. Don to Cromwell.
Begs credence for Ralph Kyngyston, who has well studied his suit. Without Cromwell's consideration of his most chargeable service, both in his age as in his "ewyth," will be reduced to beggary. Horssyngdon, 6 May.
Hol. (?), p. 1. Sealed. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
6 May.
R. O.
812. Arthur Lord Lisle.
Acknowledgment by lord Lisle of an obligation with an indenture dated 1 April last, and a letter of attorney dated 2 April, brought by John Husee, one of the King's retinue of Calais, Lisle's attorney, to Sir Wm. Hollis, alderman of London, as his own act and deed signed and sealed by him, 6 May 28 Hen. VIII.
Delivered in the presence of Robt. Mawd as attorney for Sir Wm. Hollis and Thos. Love, constable, and David Woodroff, merchants of the Staple of Calais. Signed.
P. 1.
R. O. 2. Robt. Mawd to Sir Wm. Hollis.
Copy of the above, dated 6 April.
Hol., p. 1. Addressed as alderman of London and merchant of the Staple of Calais.
6 May.
R. O.
813. Jehan Ango to the Deputy of Calais.
I wrote by Riseban that I had done justice in the matter of which you wrote by him, and I desired you to do the like to some Flemings at Dover, who have taken within the liberties of England a prize which had been made by my galleon. I understand the mayor has commenced proceedings. Dieppe, 6 May. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.
6 May.
Vit. B. xiv. 208. B. M.
814. Sir Gregory Casale to Cromwell.
"Magce Domine mi, plurimum observandissime, salutem, etc. . . . . . . . . iiij. Maii, per duos Gallorum tabellarios ad D. Vestram, g . . . . . . . . . . perscripsi. Cum mercatorum tabellarius nunc discedat . . . . . . . Germaniam has literas scribere volui. Pontifex . . . . . . . . . Latino Juvenale cum cardinale Lothoringio mutavit co . . . . . . . . . expectare quousque quid cardinalis Lothoringius c . . . . . . . . . egerit cognoscat, quod si fuerit ejusmodi, ut pax . . . . . . . . possit, id est, si Regi Chrmo placuerit de tertio gen[ito] . . . . . et in Galliam mittet, et ipse statim Bononiam con . . . . . etiam primo decreverat. Lothoringius xx. dierum [spatium] sumpsit, quo tempore promisit, certiorem factum . . . . . . de eo quod ipse egerit cum Rege. Hoc Pontifex . . . . . . . retulit, nec vult interim cardinales animum apr . . . . . . amovere, nec ante illud spatium xx. dierum . . . . . . . cardinali veniam ab urbe secedendi, quemadmodu[m] . . . . . temporibus solent, daturus est.
Proximo concistorio nullum verbum fuit super bull[a] . . . . . . . . indicendi, nondum enim cardinales omnes eam leger[unt] . . . . . protrahitur, sed tamen perficietur. In dies magis . . . . . . . . literis cognoscitur Cæsarem ex hoc concilii n . . . . . . . . . Germaniæ benevolentiam sibi conciliasse, per . . . . . . . . . . . . . . sententiam quenque vivere usque ad concilii decreta . . . . ex Germania rediit dominus de Beure, qui idem affirmat . . . diebus in Lombardiam Cæsari advenerunt xv. Germanorum [ve]xilla, et novem vexilla adhuc expectant, et xij. [G]ermanorum millia jam erant cum Antonio Leyva. Habebunt [ig]itur Cæsariani ut ipsi existimant, circiter xx. millia [G]ermanorum. Hispanorum vero numerus, una cum iis, quos Cæsar secum ducit, erit septem millium, præterea sex millia dicunt esse, quæ cum Hispanis triremibus Genuam pervenerunt. Cumque peditibus Italis, quos ducunt Fabritius Maramaus, et Hieronimus Ursinus, erunt in castris Cæsaris xiij. millia peditum Italorum, qua ratione majores erunt Cæsaris vires quam Christianissimi. Hucusque enim Galli sex millia tantum Germanorum habent, Helvetiorum autem octo millia, quæ expectant, nondum venerunt. Propterea existimo Gallos consilium capturos retinendi Civascum, Taurinum, quæ duo oppida muniunt, et Ivream, et prope Taurinum exercitum habituros. Aliter [e]nim contra Cæsarianos pares non erunt. Hac de causa [Cæs]arem puto sententiam mutasse, ut scilicet Mediolani . . . . . sit quam Mantuæ, ubi decreverat residere. Si enim Mediolani manebit loco opportuniore ac pr . . . . . . . . . . Nondum auditur Cæsarem ita statuisse, ita . . . . . . . . facturus. Hac de causa, et propterea e . . . . . . . . . mihi mandavit singula quæ fierent perscribe . . . . . . non discedendum hinc duco antequam hoc lo . . . . . . . . responsum accipiatur, idque ut sciam, num pa . . . . . . quemadmodum Pontifex adhuc videtur sperare . . . . . . hujusmodi negotium dimittatur. Statui itaque meo[s] familiares in Lombardiam præmittere. Ad meu[m] collegam scripsi, si quid acceperit ex Anglia, . . . mea præsentia sit opus, aliquem ad me per [equos] dispositos mittat. Me enim statim illuc vol . . . . . Interim autem cum nihil agendum sit hic expec[tabo] quosque super hoc negotio certiora intelligantur, . . . . . erit factum, aut dictum quod non intellig . . . . . . Cum cardinale Caracciolo locutus sum prou . . . . . literis me facturum scripsi, super illo Phi . . . . . . cujus viri improbitatem ostendi, et quædam n . . . . . . . Romæ egit contra magistrum hospitalis . . . . . . . nollet hujusmodi nebulones fovere. Cardinalis . . . . . . . est, se illius causa nihil esse factur[um] . . . . . . . . . . . . fecit, ideo fecisse, quoniam regina Hungariæ [Flan]driæ gubernatrix eum suis literis commendaverat. [Sc]ripsi superioribus literis quemadmodum Lothoringius [re] infecta discesserat, propterea quod præscriptum [in] mandatis habebat de Aureliensi tantum agere, aut [om]nem prorsus de pace sermonem tollere. Quod pontifici minime placuit, voluitque Lothoringium ad Christianissimum redire, cumque eo agere, ut ducatum Mediolani pro tertio genito accipere vellet. Quam ob causam Pontifex Bononiam non est amplius iturus nisi ex Lothoringii responso meliora de pace acceperit." Rome, 6 May 1536. Signed.
Mutilated. The address is copied by a modern hand on the first sheet.
7 May.
Harl. MS. 283, f. 256. B. M.
815. Henry VIII. to the Sheriff of —.
Since the dissolution of the late Parliament matters of high importance have chanced, which render it necessary to discuss the establishment of the succession in a Parliament assembled for that purpose. Writs have been already sent, which the King doubts not he will execute. Desires him to declare to the people that the calling of a Parliament is so necessary, both for the treating of matters tending to their weal and the surety of our person, that they will have cause to think their charge and time, which will be very little and short, well spent. Desires him to take care that persons are elected who will serve, and for their worship and qualities be most meet for this purpose. Westm., 7 May. Signed with a stamp.
Add.: The sheriff of our county of —.
Calig. B. VI.
319. B. M.
816. Parliament.
"The names of such towns as in times past I could have made burgesses of Parliament of in the shire of Sussex."
The town of Horsham, 2; Shoreham, 2; Stenyng, 2; Lewes, 2; Gatton, "where Sir Roger Copley dwelleth," 2.
"As for Reigate, I doubt whether any burgesses be there or not. In all the shires in my commission, save Lancashire, I have put such order that such shall be chosen as I doubt not shall serve his Highness according to his pleasure; and in likewise I did in Norfolk and Suffolk before my last coming thence."
In the hand of Norfolk's clerk, p. 1.
R. O. 817. William Assheby to Cromwell.
Cannot thank him sufficiently for his recommendation in his letters to the earl of Huntingdon and others for the election of knights of the shire of Leicester. Will do his best to serve the King, but desires leave to stay at home for some time, as he has been very sick, and is unable to ride without danger. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Master Thomas Cromwell, secretary to our sovereign lord the King. Endd.
7 May.
R. O.
818. Robt. [Sherburn], Bishop of Chichester, to Cromwell.
Thanks him for his letters approving of his desire to resign. Will do what he can to gratify "this Master Dean, your friend." Aldyngbourne, 7 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
7 May.
R. O.
819. Sir. Hen. Wiat to his Son Thos. Wiat.
Considers himself most unfortunate that he cannot go nor ride without danger to his life, or do his duty to the King in this dangerous time that his Grace has suffered by false traitors. Desires his son to give the King due attendance night and day. "I pray to God give him grace long to be with him and about him that hath found out this matter, which hath been given him of God, and the false traitors to be punished according to justice to the example of others." Alington, 7 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
7 May.
R. O.
820. Roland Lee, Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, John Pakyngton, John Vernon, and Thos. Holte, to Cromwell.
This Council received two letters enclosed, one from the bailiffs of Salop, the other taken from Geoffrey Griffith, the servant of the Chamberlain of North Wales. As the news in this letter is very doleful to this Council and all the liege people of this realm, God forbid it should be true. We desire you to let us know the King's pleasure what shall be done with Geffrey, now in Shrewsbury gaol, and the other named Roland Buckley. Brecknock, 7 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add.. Secretary. Endd. Sealed.
7 May.
R. O.
821. Mary Courtenay to Cromwell.
Thanks him for his goodness towards her since the death of her husband. (fn. 17) Desires that his will may stand in full force, and that the child of which Cromwell has the wardship may remain with her. Has been at Powderham to see what case it was in since the death of her husband. The woods are spoiled, "wheche ys the kyee of the howse (?), for the hedcheges ar sor in dekaye, whech was werye wel." The stuff which should have been of use to the heir is in the keeping of a very simple man. "The plache ys yn Joyles kepynge," who has not sufficient substance to keep it. Desires it be put in the hands of some "credable" person. Cadlay, 7 May.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
7 May.
R. O. St. P. ii. 314.
822. Lord Leonard Gray to Cromwell.
Parliament began here last Monday. Has deferred some things till the coming of the Chief Justice and Master of the Rolls.
Many Scots have landed in the North, and there are more ready to come. O'Neyl writes fair promises, but it is reported he has made bands with wild Irish. The Treasurer and others think it well that Gray should furnish his ship to lie in wait for the Scots. Asks that the bearer, Mathew Kyng, may have commission to take up mariners and soldiers for the sea, as there are none good here. Asks him not to believe the untrue reports about him, of which he has heard from Stephen a Parry.
Will never forget Cromwell's counsel. Dublin, 7 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Mr. Secretary. Endd.
7 May.
Add. MS. 28,588, f. 261. B. M.
823. J. Hannaert to the Empress.
* * * It has not been heard here, nor does Hannaert believe, that the king of England has sent to offer men and money to the king of France, but it is true that he is trying to gain the French king against the Emperor by his two ambassadors here. They have told me that he does not wish to come to that (no quiere venir a ello), but rather to make a new peace with the Emperor, be reconciled with the Church, and give aid against the Turks, and he has not celebrated a marriage since the death of queen Katharine by any act. (fn. 18) The Princess is treated just as before her mother's death, and the project of marriage for her has cooled (lo del casamiento esta callado).
The said king perseveres in his [dis]obedience to the Church, and has got an Act of Parliament to put down abbeys and priories of 800 ducats rent and under. He is taking away all their treasure, gold and jewels.
The ambassador in England writes that an interview between the kings of England and Scotland has been arranged to be held in May at the City of Dorcaque (York), which is far in England. "[Mont]brison en forca." 7 May 1536.
Sp., pp. 9. Modern copy.
8 May. 824. Richard Pace.
See Grants in May, No. 5.
8 May.
R. O.
825. Sir William Brereton to Cromwell.
Hears that certain religious houses in Cheshire are to be suppressed. Begs that he may be remembered in consideration of his divers journeys. Brereton, 8 May. Signed: Wylliam Brereton, knight.
P. 1. Add.: Secretary.
8 May.
R. O.
826. John Lord Lumley to Cromwell.
I send you by the bearer, my chaplain, your fee due at Whitsunday next. As you promised me to obtain the King's pardon for all parliaments, I beg you will have me in remembrance, and I shall always be glad to recompense you. I have been so taken in all parts of my body, especially my throat and the "paylles" of my mouth, and have such a boiling heat upon my stomach that it grows very sore. At my manor of the Ile in the bishopric of Durham, 8 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
8 May.
R. O.
827. Mayor and Jurates of Sandwich to Henry VIII.
On Sunday, 7 May, Sir Wm. Latymer, one of the Queen's chaplains, arrived at Sandwich, where he was told that the Queen and others were prisoners in the Tower. He said that he had come from Flanders on her business, and showed the contents of his budget and purse to the mayor and jurates, as Thos. Boys, one of the King's servants then present, can testify. Enclose a list written by him of the books he had with him, and of others in his mail, which had not yet arrived, but which were to be conveyed to London to one Mrs. Wilkinson. Boys will convey Latymer himself to the King. Sandwich, 8 May.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
8 May.
R. O.
828. [Lord Lisle] to Henry VIII.
Complains of his inability to support the expense of keeping up a household and entertaining foreign ambassadors, &c. Calais, 8 May 28 Hen. VIII.
Copy. In Husey's hand. P. 1. Endd.
8 May.
R. O.
829. [Lord Lisle] to Cromwell.
Has been at no little charge since coming here "by reason that no man here is ordinarily charged with household, but only I, whereunto any haunt or great resort had been and is made, and in especial when any ambassador or other great personage doth hither from any foreign country repair." Has so long borne the same he can bear it no longer, unless the King have some respect for him. "And seeing there are many things now in his gracious disposition and hands by reason of the most mischievous, heinous, and most abominable treasons against his most gracious and royal Crown and person committed, I wholly trust that his Grace, being good lord unto me, will vouchsafe to employ some part of those same upon me, which I do well know may so much the rather be obtained by your good mediation and furtherance." Will see to it that he shall think he has served a gentleman. Wishes to know his mind by the bearer, "to whom I have delivered a letter which I have written to the King's Highness." Calais, 8 May.
Draft in Hussey's hand, p. 1. Endd.: Copy of Mr. Secretary's letter.
8 May.
R. O.
830. Brion to the Deputy of Calais.
Thanks him for his advice to the person he lately sent to Calais about the fishery. Sends the bearer again about it. Havre de Grace, 8 May. Signed.
P.S.—Begs him to help the bearer, Jaques Grotier, for his sake.
Fr., p. 1. Add.
8 May.
Add. MS. 8715, f. 247. B. M.
831. Bishop of Faenza to Mons. Ambrogio.
The French show themselves very cordial towards the Pope. They say they are aware of the Emperor's preparations for war, but theirs are greater.
The English of late seemed more ready to have friendship with the Emperor than otherwise. Various persons, and even the Imperial ambassador, have letters from England, stating that the King has recalled to the Council three or four who were dismissed (rimessi, qu. rimossi?) because they were considered favorable to the Church. He is content that the clergy shall preach as formerly, approving of purgatory, the adoration of saints, pilgrimages, and other things which he had forbidden. This King shows a great desire to bring him back to obedience to the Holy See, if possible, but has not much trust in him. The bailly of Troyes is now being sent back from thence.
Ital., modern copy, pp. 4. Headed: Al Signor Mons. Ambrogio. Da Montbrison, li 8 Maggio 1536.
9 May. 832. Surveyors of Crown Lands.
See Grants in May, No. 6.
9 May.
Titus, B. i. 406. B. M.
833. Henry VIII. to the Earl of Essex.
Commanding him to repair to the King to treat of matters relating to the surety of his person, his honor, and the tranquillity of the realm. Westm., 9 May. Signed with a stamp.
P. 1. Add.
R. O. 834. Noblemen [to be summoned to a Council ?] (fn. 19)
My lord of Norfolk, my lord of Suffolk, marquis of Exeter. Earls of Oxford, Arundel, Westmoreland, Essex, Derby, Worcester, Sussex, Huntingdon. Lords Lawarre, Awdeley, Montague, Matravers, Morley, Cobbeham, Clynton, Powes, Sandes, Wyndesor, and Mordaunt.
P. 1. Endd.: Names of divers lords.
R. O. 2. A list of gentlemen, probably drawn up the same time as the preceding.
Sir Anthony B[rowne], Sir John Russell, Sir Wm. Kyngeston, Sir John Gage, Sir John Dudley, Peter Mewtas, Ant. Kyngeston, Sir John Seyntlowe, Sir Rice Maunsell, John Salisbery, Sir Wm. Brereton, Ric. Candisshe, Mr. Gostwike, Mr. Williams, Mr. Wriothesley, Raff Sadlier, Mr. Palmer, knight porter of Calais, Sir Wm. Pikeryng, Philip Denys, John Pye, Mr. Coffen, Mr. Barmeston, John Carre, Sir Edmond Bedyngfeld, Sir Edw. Chamberlayne, Wm. Gunson.
P. 1. Endd.: [Names] of divers [gente]lmen.
10 May.
R. O.
835. Nicholas [Shaxton], Bishop of Sarum, to Cromwell.
I have received your letter for the reversion of the chantership of the church of Sarum. I am mindful of the many kind offices you have done me, especially in promoting me to the bishopric, and my inability to make any return. As to the promise of Mr. Lupset's prebend, promised you for your friend, it was but little. For your present desire you shall have it, if we two live to see the voidance of the room. I had intended it, however, for the King. Remmesbury, 10 May.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
10 May.
R. O.
836. Arthur Russhe to Cromwell.
I beg your favor both for such lands as my father hath purchased since my marriage, and the moveables. He cannot deny your request. We have children, and, if their lives are spared, it may be advancement to them. 10 May.
Hol., p. 1. Add: Secretary. Endd.
10 May.
R. O.
837. Sir John Duddeley to Lady Lisle.
Asks her to speak to her husband that the bearer may have the next vacant soldier's room. Is sure there is no need to write the news, for all the world knows them by this time. Today Mr. Norres, Mr. Weston, William a Brearton, Markes, and lord Rocheforde were indicted, and on Friday they will be arraigned at Westminster. The Queen herself will be condemned by Parliament. Wednesday, 10 May.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: At Calais.
10 May.
Add. MS. 8715, f. 248b. B. M.
838. Bishop of Faenza to Mons. Ambrogio.
News came yesterday from England that the King had caused to be arrested the Queen, her father, mother, brother, and an organist with whom she had been too intimate. If it be as is reported, and as the cardinal Du Bellay has given him to understand, it is a great judgment of God. Hears that that King has so bound himself to this king (Francis), that he hopes, if it is so, that the Pope will regain him by means of these people (the French), because Madame Madalena ought reasonably to be given to him. The King is going seven leagues hence, but intends to return. The ambassadors are staying by order of the Grand Master.
Ital., p. 1. Modern copy. Headed: Al Signor Protonotario Ambrogio. Da Suoyeu, li 10 Maggio 1536.
R. O. ii. Extract from the original letter in the Vatican. Dated Suryeu le Contal (Sury le Comtat), 10 May 1536.

Footnotes

  • 1. Stat. 27 Hen. VIII. c. 26.
  • 2. The Lord Chancellor.
  • 3. Compare Strype's reference to this letter before it was mutilated. Eccl. Mem. I i. 432.
  • 4. Strype's account of the contents of the letter here is:—"Mrs. Cosins (sic), a gentlewoman appointed to wait upon the Queen here, and that lay on her palate bed, said that Norris . . . . did say on Saturday last (sic) unto the Queen's amner," &c.
  • 5. Corrected from Monday.
  • 6. "without" in Ellis.
  • 7. "mee" in Ellis.
  • 8. Evidently the property of Henry Norris. See statute 28 Hen. VIII. c. 26.
  • 9. Compare Strype's account of this letter in Eccl. Mem. I. i. 434.
  • 10. Corrected from "lost."
  • 11. Compare the account of this letter in Strype's Eccl. Mem. I. i. 435.
  • 12. In Somersetshire.
  • 13. Hans Popenruyter of Mechlin. See Vol. I.
  • 14. That this letter was not really either written or composed by Anne Boleyn, the handwriting and the style alike indicate beyond any reasonable doubt.
  • 15. Copies of this letter still more modern will be found in Add. MS. 22,587, f. 22, and Harl. MS. 1323, f. 35.
  • 16. Crossed through.
  • 17. Sir W. Courtenay.
  • 18. "Y no a celebrado matrimonio despuez de la muerte de la Reyna doña Catalina ni otro auto ninguno."
  • 19. Very probably this paper refers to the intended Council for which the preceding summons was issued, and which is referred to in lord Latimer's letter of 12 May following.