|
1 Feb.
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iii. 228. | 1159. Denmark and Scotland. |
|---|
| Instructions of Christian. heir of Norway, &c., to Peter Suavenius, to
be declared to the king of Scotland. |
| After the death of Christian's father Frederick. about two years ago, the
people of Lubeck, and other maritime cities allied with them, endeavoured to
keep him from the succession and to subdue Denmark and Norway. They
have sent ambassadors to the princes of Christendom; among others, to
Henry VIII., who has sent them 20,000 gold pieces in return for an offer of
the quiet possession of Denmark. Has sent to England to inquire why the
King, his friend, has made an alliance against him. No doubt the Lubeckers
intend to injure Scotland as well as Denmark. Remarks on the danger of
great cities, like Venice, to their neighbours. They are attempting to drive
him out even of his hereditary duchies, and have sent agents to stir up
rebellion in Sweden. If other cities follow their example, what universal
ruin will ensue. |
| Is obliged to ask for aid. Is strong enough on land. but is inferior at sea,
as his enemies have seized the Danish fleet by fraud, and are expecting ships
from England. Requests James to send Albert Bartuen and Albert Fagow,
with five or six ships each. The king of Sweden is ravaging Scania on
Christian's behalf, and will join his fleet. Other princes will do the
same. |
| With Scotch help, will easily recover what he has lost in Denmark. |
| An account is given of the republic of Lubeck, similar to that in the
instructions for Henry VIII. [No. 72.] |
| If James could dissuade Henry from assisting Lubeck, it would be a great
service. Surely he would not wish to see an Englishman king of Denmark,
any more than Christian would. Whatever England may do, hopes Scotland will help him. Gottorp, 1 Feb. 1535. |
| Lat. |
15 March.
Wegener, Aarsberet ninger, iii. 251. | 1160. Denmark and Lubeck. |
|---|
| Articles delivered to Cromwell, by Peter Suavenius, for a peace between
the king of Denmark and the Lubeckers, and how a treaty can be made
between the English, the Danes, and the Lubeckers. |
| Had no orders to put forward such articles, but as Cromwell wished to
know his opinion, showed them as a means of peace, saying that they were
his, not his King's. If it be worth while, will consult his King and the
councillors about them, and bring back their answer. |
| Gives a short account of the state of affairs, and the appointment of Henry
duke of Mecklenburg, the landgrave of Hesse, and the senates of Hamburg
and Lunenburg, as arbiters between his Prince and the Lubeckers concerning the war in the Duchies. With this exception, believes that his
Prince would permit the king of England to settle the disagreement about
the kingdom of Denmark. The terms acceptable by his party would be that
his prince should be allowed to hold Denmark and Norway in accordance with
the letters given to king Frederick and the subsequent election, in the same
manner as John, Christiern, and Frederick held it, without any derogation
from the rights of the King or the councillors, or from freedom. |
| In return, believes that he could obtain from his prince and the council
for the Lubeckers the enjoyment of their ancient privileges in Denmark and
Norway. |
| Claims for damages in Denmark which might be preferred by my Prince
against Lubeck could be referred to the King. Wants aid in money, ships,
and men, and wishes to know how much will be given. The King ought to
help the children of his deceased friend. Besides, the English once had the
privileges which the Lubeckers now claim in Norway. Except the "Stiliardica Domus" they have no company so rich as that at Bergen; and if the
King will help in defeating them, their privileges shall be transferred to the
English. Believes that privileges would be granted to the English in
Denmark if asked for; and the use of the island of Barnholm, which Frederick
granted to the Lubeckers. |
| The king of Scotland holds the Orkneys as security for the dowry of
Frederick's sister; and if the King will pay it, the islands would, he believes,
be handed over to him on the same conditions. |
| Iceland would perhaps be pledged to the King. My prince and the
councillors of Denmark could send the King German infantry much more
easily than the Lubeckers. Have now at least, 8,000, who are at the King's
service when matters are settled. Suggests a marriage between John duke
of Holstein, son of king Frederick, and the King's daughter [Mary]. He
would not be a very powerful son-in-law, but of noble birth and educated as
a king's son should be. |
| Kings John and Christiern always beat the Lubeckers at sea; and it is hoped
that my Prince will again get together a strong fleet, if he has peaceable
possession of Denmark and Norway. He and the councillors are willing to
serve the King in everything. Let the King say what he wishes done.
Will tell the Prince and councillors, and hopes to bring back a favourable
answer. |
| Lat. Dated at the head, apparently by the Editor, "1535, 15 Martii." |
20 March.
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iii. 254. | 1161. Peter Suavenius to Cromwell. |
|---|
| Was promised an answer by him in three days, but has been kept
longer than he was commissioned to stay, or than he can be away from his
Prince. Reminds Cromwell that they are at war, the success of which
depends on haste. Asks for speedy dispatch. |
| Lat., draft. Dated at the head (by the Editor?), "1535, 20 Martii." |
26 March.
Paludan Müller's Aktstykker, i. 371. | 1162. [Albert of Mecklenburg to Henry VIII.] |
|---|
| Certain proposals have come to him from the King, perhaps through
the medium of George Wulweffer, brought by Ric. Candish and Dr. Adam
Pacæus, which have given him great satisfaction. Thinks they will be very
advantageous. Has expressed his mind on the subject more fully to
Wulweffer, who is to give it to the said ambassadors in writing. Schwerin,
26 March '35. |
| Lat. |
| ii. Articles proposed to Henry VIII. [by Wulweffer]. |
| 1. Hopes the King and Queen are in good health, and will so continue. |
| 2. The King's affairs having been fully discussed in duke Albert's council,
he has declared his mind in letters to be presented to the King by Dr. Adam.
He cannot but accept thankfully the freely offered friendship of so great a
King, and will do his best when an opportunity offers to requite it. Would
be glad to confirm a league with him in due form, especially to aid him
in a holy and Christian war, if he would assist with money in restoring
Christiern II. |
| 3. The Duke will not object to be bound to the King after Christiern's
liberation, especially [along with?] those who are reduced to obedience, in a
new league, which the Lubeckers and their allies will confirm, to make no
friends with those who are not friends of the King, &c.; and if anything be
done to the contrary the King may redemand his money. |
| 4. If Christiern should die, and duke Albert be elected King in his place
(of which there is good hope), he engages to make a perpetual league with the
King, binding on all his successors; and, in short, to devote himself to the
King's interests in all things, except what concerns his duty to the Holy
Roman Empire. |
| 5. As a first evidence of this good will, the Duke shall insist that when
the expedition has been successfully accomplished the hired army be not
disbanded, but kept for the King's service, to whom he will hand it over,
giving the captains a new commission in the King's name. |
| Lat. |
27 March.
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, III. 254. | 1163. Peter Suavenius to Cromwell. |
|---|
| Has not pressed his business these three or four days, hearing Cromwell was in ill health. Is informed by his servants that the fever is intermittent, and that today he has no attack. Reminds him of his desire to be
dispatched. Cannot remain here idle without losing his character for diligence and faithfulness. This is the fifth week he has been here. While his
Prince is uncertain about the King's answer, he cannot decide about other
affairs. Could be of use there, and is doing nothing but eat and drink here.
If Cromwell intends to answer his articles, he can entrust it to his secretaries.
Knows that he has ascertained the King's intentions. If they deserve no
answer, begs him to return the articles made without authority, and to reply
only to the instructions. His Prince wishes to know what to think about
the treaty, of which he gave Cromwell a German copy, and which the
Lubeckers have published all over Germany. It is easy to say whether a
deed has been done or not. Nor does the Prince ask what he is to believe,
only on his own account. He cannot believe that the treaty has been made.
This his instructions show. He is acting for other friendly princes, who,
deceived by report and the printed copies, judge the King otherwise than
they should. |
| It concerns the King as much as us, that the forged copies of the Lubeckers
should be disproved as soon as possible. |
| Their petition is twofold: that the King will not help Lubeck against
them, as they have no right nor title; and that the King will succour the
children of his dead friend. The stem and stem of the matter, as they say,
depend on the King's will. His Prince offers his help in recovering 20,000
gold pieces from the Lubeckers, or any other service. The King will see
that he will be of use, having a strong army and so many friends. |
| Lastly, an answer must be sent to the councillors who informed the King
of their wishes and the Prince's election. This part of his business also
depends on the King's will. Apologises for saying so much. Asks Cromwell either to direct his secretaries to write the letter, or to hand him over
to the duke of Norfolk or some one else, through whom he may obtain an
answer from the King. |
| Lat., draft. Dated at the head (by the Editor?), 1535, 27 Martii. |
28 March.
Paludan Müller's Aktstykker, i. 380. | 1164. J. Wullenwefer to Duke Albert of Mecklenburg. |
|---|
| Advises that Bernnt van Melen be sent to England with a credence
for pecuniary help,—at the least 100,000 guldens,—else Denmark will agree
with Holstein, which is daily sending envoys to England. If we have no
money the game is lost. Rustek, Easter Day, '35. |
| Holstein dialect. |
1 April.
Paludan Müller's Aktstykker, ii. 66. | 1165. [Albert of Mecklenburg to Henry VIII.] |
|---|
| After hearing the charge of Candiss and Pacæus, thought it advisable
to send another person to join the former embassy, and treat of the articles
which the said ambassadors brought. Desires credence, therefore, for
Bernhard e Melen, "equitem auratum, capitaneum nostrum." Another
embassy will shortly be sent with full information of the consent of the
leading men of Denmark. Svuerini, 1 April, anno '35. |
| Lat. |
5 April.
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iii. 256. | 1166. Peter Suavenius to Bedell. |
|---|
| Writes to remind Bedell of his promise made yesterday. Came six
months ago from Christian prince of Holsatia, on business which will not
admit of long delay. Being unable to have access to Cromwell during his
illness, asks Bedell to remind Cromwell of his promise to despatch him at
the earliest date. If this is impossible, would wish for a safe conduct for one
of his servants to report that he will be detained longer. |
| Lat., draft. Dated at the head (by the Editor?)), "1535, 5 Aprilis." |
6 April.
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iii. 257. | 1167. Suavenius to Bedell. |
|---|
| In accordance with Cromwell's request, wrote three weeks ago
articles which he hoped to obtain from his Prince and the councillors of
Denmark. Cromwell promised a speedy answer, which he was to take back
to his Prince, and return with his opinion. It was impossible for him, as
desired, to draw up articles equally acceptable to the King and his Prince,
which he could send by his servant. The whole thing depends on the King
and his Prince and their councillors, and he cannot divine what they may
think in affairs so difficult. Never wished to send his servant on his own
business; and what could he write when he had no answer to his charge?
It is nearly three months since he left his Prince. Has neither written nor
sent, as he had daily promises of an answer from the Secretary. Business
which concerns either the king of England or his Prince is too important to
trust to his servants. Will go himself if there is any chance of contracting
friendship between the Princes. Will readily do this, as otherwise he must
tarry here idle. The matter is of such a kind that it should not be divulged
till it is completed. Whatever he were to write, the Prince would have
something to ask him. If he tried to conduct such a difficult negotiation by
letters, the Prince would think he shirked the labour of travelling. In short,
wants his promised answer. Will convey it himself, and return with the
opinion of his Prince and the councillors. Cannot write or send. Asked
for a safe-conduct merely because his Prince had heard nothing of him since
his departure, and he desired to tell him that he was waiting here. He is, no
doubt, putting off many things till Suavenius's return. If no answer is to be
given to his articles, asks at least for the King's opinion on his instructions.
The result of further deliberations can be sent by ambassadors or letters.
Asks Bedell to show this to the Secretary. |
| Lat., draft. Dated at the head (by the Editor?), "1535, 6 Aprilis." |
7 April.
Wegener, Aarsberetninger. iii. 258. | 1168. Peter Suavenius to Henry VIII. |
|---|
| Reminds him that he is waiting for an answer, and that his business
will not bear delay. |
| Lat., draft. Dated (by the Editor?), "1535, 7 Aprilis." |
[12 April.]
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iii. 259. | 1169. Peter Suavexius to Henry VIII. |
|---|
| Cromwell has given him letters to his Prince and the councillors,
which he is bid to take as an answer. Promises to deliver the letters, and
thanks him for the reward. |
| Asks for a licence to import wine and woad from France in a French ship,
for the bearer, a Hamburger. |
| The Hamburgers have never used force against his Prince, and granting
this favor will please him. Promises to help English merchants in their
suits. |
| Lat., draft. Dated (by the Editor), "1535, 12 Aprilis?" |
12 May.
Paludan Müller, Aktstykker, ii. 80. | 1170. Albert of Mecklenburg to Henry VIII. |
|---|
| Has detained at Copenhagen certain English ships which were bound
for Livonia and Prussia. In spite of the treaties between Henry and
Christiern II. hears that they would have been seized by the "enemies of
us and the kingdom of Denmark," who occupy the sea. The sailors were
not unwilling, and have lent the Duke a quantity of cloth, which has been
used in paying the soldiers' wages, for which they have been clamouring.
The country is in great poverty, owing to the duration of the war; and,
remembering the virtues of king Christiern, is the more ready to take up
arms. |
| Will repay the Englishmen what is used for the army. Begs the King
not to be offended, and to aid in delivering a King who is unjustly detained
in prison, the King's kinsman and ally, and the Duke's cousin, in accordance
with the treaty made when he was at London with his wife, at Midsummer
1523 or thereabouts, Promises that Christiern, if liberated, will observe the
treaty, and add thereto perpetual friendship with the "Wandalicæ civitates,"
of which Lubeck is the chief, as Geo. Wollueffer has already written to the
King. Copenhagen, 12 May, anno '35. |
| Lat. |
12 May.
Paludan Muller, Aktstykker, ii. 82. | 1171. Albert Duke of Mecklenburg to Henry VIII. |
|---|
| The course of events reminds him of what he wrote to the King on
1 April by Bernhard de Mela, that he should send a messenger to the King
on his arrival in Denmark. Vullweffer will write about the negotiations for
an alliance. Promises that on Christiern's liberation everything contained
in the commissions of Adam Paeæus and Bernhard a Melen shall be performed.
Desires credence for them. The old treaties with Christiern shall
be renewed and enlarged by perpetual friendship with the "Vandalicæ
civitates."Desires the King not to be offended with the detention of
English ship by the count of Oldenburg. When Christiern is liberated will
see that the King's subjects are treated with perfect justice. Copenhagen.
12 May. |
| Lat. |
[2 June?]
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iii. 260. | 1172. Suavenius to the King and Council of Scotland. |
|---|
| A speech, giving, first, an account of the situation in Denmark as in
his instructions of Feb. 1. Cannot show the copy of the treaty between
England and Lubeck, as he presented it to the king of England, and had no
opportunity of making a copy. Will send one on his return to Holstein. |
| The purport of it is a renewal of the old friendship and the defence of
the King's second marriage and the issue thereof by Lubeck in the General
Council. The Pope is to be attacked, and articles against his primacy are
drawn up, which the Lubeckers will defend in the General Council. The
Lubeck ambassador made a most shocking speech on this topic before a
crowded audience in England, in presence of the King and Court. No one
was shut out who wished to come, and understood Latin. Will show
James a copy given him by Chapuys. |
| The Lubeckers have promised to aid the king of England with 12 ships
and 10,000 men, with no limitation against whom they are to be used.
Denmark is offered to the king of England, as he stated before, or, if he do
not want it, to his nominee. |
| The reply he had from England was no denial of the loan to Lubeck, but
of any new treaty, and a promise that they would not hinder his Prince or
any other in obtaining his right. Everything was done with delay and
ambiguity, and he could get no certain answer whether the King would help
them or their enemies. States his Prince's claims as in the instructions.
His Prince wrote to James, some weeks before Suavenius left, by a Scotchman, who does not seem to have fulfilled his trust. The substance of the
letters was to ask James to allow his subjects to send ships to serve him
for honorable wages and booty; and he promises to do the like for James
if required. Reminds James that he is a grand nephew of king Frederick by
his sister, (fn. 1) and of the long alliance between Scotland, Denmark, and France.
Denmark is much more able to assist him when needed than Lubeck is. The
king of Sweden is ravaging Scania, &c. (as in the instructions [App. 1] to the
end). |
| Explains that though the councillors are not bound to elect a king of a
certain family, they almost always have done so. Gives an outline of the
history of Denmark, and how Frederic duke of Holstein was elected King
in consequence of the tyranny of Christiern II. (fn. 2) Urges the advantage of
having a relation, not an enemy, reigning in Denmark. |
| Confesses that the Emperor was hostile to them on account of the
expulsion of Christiern, but he has now made peace, and Christian is in
the Emperor's pay, instead of being an enemy. James will therefore help
him with the Emperor's good will. |
| Suggests a marriage between James and Christian's eldest sister. |
| Lat. |
10 June.
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iii. 266. | 1173. Peter Suavenius to the Archbishop of Glasgow. |
|---|
| It is very necessary for him to get back as soon as possible. Has
been away nearly a year, the English having kept him so long in suspense.
Has now been waiting here a month after delivering his letters of credence.
His Prince has a strong army at great monthly expense, which he cannot
use to any good purpose while the sea is open to the enemy. The master
of the ship in which he came is preparing to return, and he knows no one
else who will take him back. Asks the Archbishop to remind the King
of his business. Whatever the answer, his Prince wishes it at once, for then
he will have grounds to act upon. |
| Lat., draft. Dated at the head (by the Editor?), "1535, 10 Junii." |
17 June.
Paludan Müller, Aktstykker, ii. 104. | 1174. Bernard von Melen to Albert of Mecklenburg. |
|---|
| Has visited the king of England, and, along with the Doctor, declared
his instructions by word and writing. Had a gracious reception, the King
showing himself anxious to preserve friendship with the Duke. But as to
the important matter he would take no mature resolution, especially as my
credence spoke of your sending other ambassadors to Denmark with further
information, and with consent of the Hanse towns. He has therefore deferred
the matter till the coming of his servant Christopher [Mont]. As this
would involve much delay, and all other matters in England can be left to
Dr. Adam, who relaxes no effort in your service, I took leave of his Majesty,
and came to Lubeck. |
| Written under my seal (pitzer), Thursday after St. Vitus, '35. |
| Provincial German. |
17 June.
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iii. 266. | 1175. James V. to Christian Duke of Holstein. (fn. 3) |
|---|
| Commends Suavenius's conduct in his embassy. Will write to the
king of England to give up his intentions about Denmark, and not to favour
Lubeck against Christian. Will also send privately to Lubeck to ask the
people and Senate what are the causes and who the authors of discord, and
to exhort them to give up arms. On receiving an answer, will act as his
relationship demands. Assures him that he will not fail to help him in
his just cause. Stirling, 17 June 1535. |
| Lat. Signed. Sealed. Add. |
[After 14 July.]
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iii. 267. | 1176. Peter Suavenius to [John Camwell]. |
|---|
| An account of his journey from Scotland. While detained in port,
heard that an embassy had come from Lubeck to ask for aid from England;
and on asking why they should want aid, having hitherto had the war all
their own way, was told that a few months ago they had sustained defeats.
On arriving at Vere, heard that the Prince had defeated the Lubeckers;
two of their generals, counts of Hoya and Teklenborch, being killed. The
island of Fionia (Funen) and ten ships were also taken. |
| Begs him to take care that James keeps his promise of writing to dissuade Henry from helping them. Suggests the advisability of sending at
once to warn Lubeck to desist from war on pain of having the Scotch for
enemies. Being stunned by their bad fortune, they will not despise threats. |
| Lat., draft. Dated by the Editor, "1535, post diem 14 Julii." |
20(?) July.
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iv. 6. | 1177. Sweden, Holstein, &c. |
|---|
| Power granted by Henry VIII. to Edm. Boner, LL.D., Ric. Caundishe, Esq., and Adam Paceus (Otto Pogk) LL.D., to treat with the king
of Sweden, the dukes of Holstein and Mecklenburg, the count of Odenbrough,
the consuls of Lubeck, and all other persons in that region, for friendship
and mercantile intercourse. Nothing must be done without the consent of
Boner and Caundisshe. Westm., 20 (fn. 4) July 27 Hen. VIII. |
Feb.—July.
Wegener, Aarsberetninger, iii. 232. | 1178. Diary of Peter Suavenius. |
|---|
| A short account of occurrences on his journey from "Stadium"
to Brussels, where he had an audience on Monday [15 Feb.] On Tuesday
Cornelius Scepper gave him an answer that letters should be written on his
behalf to France, but not to England. |
| Went to the King (Henry VIII.) at Hampton Court on "Dominica Oculi"
(28 Feb.) Showed the Secretary the substance of his charge. He denied
about the treaty. As to the rest, he said an answer could be soon given.
On Monday had audience in the garden. The King did not deny about
the treaty, and wished to know why he ought not to accept the kingdom of
Denmark. The people of Lubeck had heard what we had treated with the
Emperor, and had therefore come and made friends with him. The kingdom
of Denmark was elective, not hereditary. The people of Lubeck were truly his
friends. Prince Christian had no right to Denmark; the kingdom had refused
him. His father and the counsellors had preferred a younger son. The
election was not only the affair of the counsellors but of the people as well.
A few of the counsellors had adhered to Christian. This was nothing: a
younger brother was in the kingdom. He also knew we had practised something with the Emperor, (fn. 5) but, getting nothing from him, we had come to
England. The king of the Swedes did wrong in opposing the Lubeckers,
by whom he had been raised to the kingdom. The Count likewise
was at variance with Lubeck, but both would soon pay the penalty.
Lubeck would easily recover what the Count holds, as they were powerful,
and had put Frederick in the kingdom. The treaty with Lubeck was
terminated by Frederick's death. Where was king Christiern? Had I the
letters of my Prince's election? |
| I replied what was the truth, that Prince Christian was called to the kingdom,
not by letters, but by a solemn embassy consisting of bishops and peers.
This was not believed. Cromwell was summoned, and the King told him of
our conversation, laughing and showing by his gesticulations what his mind
was about my embassy. The treaty with Lubeck was presented by the King to
Cromwell, and he replied that he would have it translated into English, and
the King afterwards would decide about sending me away. Getting no
audience after repeated requests, sent my instructions that the King might
know what I had to say. Subsequently presented the letters of the Senators
of the kingdom, adding an excuse that I had no letters of the Prince's
election, nor had I thought of those letters which I had received from the
connsellors, signed by five bishops and other peers, who had elected the
Prince as king of Denmark, as the letter showed. Spoke afterwards of the
defection of the people of Scania, of the defeat of the Lubeckers, and the
death of Mark Meyers. None of it was believed. Showed Magnus Goyen's
letters. Asked for a good answer as soon as possible; which was promised.
Was told to return on Saturday, but on that day word was brought that
[the King] could not give me audience on account of hoarseness (raucedinem)
and ill health. On Wednesday the Secretary would return to the King, and
I should follow. |
| On Lætare Sunday (7 March) was ordered to translate the Danish letters
into Latin. It was promised also that one of the clerks should attend to my
business in the Court, and come thence with an answer:—my despatch was
being discussed, so the matter was nearly finished. Went on Tuesday, and,
not being able to get in, sent some one to say I was outside, and wanted an
answer. The reply was brought that there was no need to follow the
Secretary to Court; he would return on Friday with my despatch. Sent
back to say I was ready to give an account of the whole matter if anything
was wanting in the instructions. The reply was, that there was no need
of information, everything was clear in the instructions, and that on Friday
I should have an answer which would content me. The Secretary did not
return on Friday. On Saturday morning went to Court. Asked Cromwell
to give me a favorable answer as soon as possible. He replied that he
should sleep in London, and that I also should go thither, and he wished to
talk over everything with me on Monday at latest; the King understood
that we sought friendship and treaty with the English. Replied that we
wished to have peace with all Christian princes, if only they offered tolerable
conditions. He assured me that he wished to act so that where there is
now war there should be peace, and that with honor to us; and that I
should wait for Monday. |
| Came back on Monday after Judica (15 March). (fn. 6) The Secretary asked
whether my Prince could not recover the favor of the Lubeckers. Said that
he was inclined for peace, and waged war more in self-defence than from
desire of gain. The Secretary asked me again what fair conditions of peace
could be found honorable to my Prince and tolerable by the Lubeckers.
Replied, free government of Denmark and Norway for Christian as for
former princes, and I hoped to obtain the continuance of the privileges of the
Lubeckers in those kingdoms. He asked what help we wanted from the
King. Said I did not know what to ask for, as the Lubeckers reported that
the King was adverse to our cause; and we could not well ask for anything, for
we doubted whether we should get it. He replied that the King did not
wish to injure a Prince of whom he had heard so much good as of our Prince;
he wished to have friends even in the North, not so much for profit as
because he was high-minded and liberal. He extolled the wealth, power,
and peace of England, and wished to know how the English could help us.
Said, in ships and money, as we had infantry enough. He asked what
return we could make. Said we did not know, and wished to hear from
him. He put the question back to me, and asked me to write out articles
stating what I thought could be done. He had heard that Denmark and Norway
had many islands; could the King be put in possession of one? (fn. 7) Perhaps
we could not afford to repay the King adequately for his aid, but he wished
to get friends, even at his own expense. He had heard that the people of
Denmark were a bad lot. Excused the nobility, and said that the commons
had been stirred up by the Lubeckers. He bade me write out articles for a
peace, on which he would give me his opinion in writing. These might be
shown to the Princes, and the opinion of both be soon discovered; I should
go to my Prince, and return as soon as possible. Asked to be despatched as
soon as possible. He, on the other hand, asked me not to refuse two or
three days, as affairs were favorable to peace. Wrote the articles on
Monday evening, and read them over with the Secretary on Tuesday at the
ninth hour. They seemed not to displease him; and he promised to write
his the same day. |
| Returned on Wednesday; but he could not attend to me, because of business
with Spain. Wrote the first letters on Saturday. He replied that I should
have an answer to the articles on Monday. On Monday after Palm Sunday (fn. 8)
he was attacked with a tertian fever. On Saturday wrote about the substance
of my business. On Easter Day wrote about sending off one of my men.
Received no answer. Was not admitted to converse with him; and none of
his servants dared mention me, or receive letters, because the King had
ordered him to see no one and do no business until he was recovered. |
| On Sunday, Quasimodo Geniti, (fn. 9) went to his house, hearing that he was
better, but no one would announce me, or permit me to enter. Was advised
to apply to Bedell, who alone had sufficient influence with Cromwell to help
me. |
| Went to Bedell after dinner, who promised to help me, and bade me come
back on Tuesday. Wrote on Monday to remind Bedell. On Tuesday was
told by him that the King loved my Prince, and was sorry that he had not
sent sooner to ask for help, because the Lubeckers had anticipated him, and
offered the King what was not to be despised. Though the contract was
not confirmed, the King could not so soon refuse their offered friendship
without a suspicion of lightness. I must devise articles, profitable to my
Prince and honorable to the King, so that he might not seem to go back
from the friendship of the cities. These I should send to my Prince, and
wait for an an answer. The King would do what he could without violating
his friendship with the cities; (fn. 10) and he would take account of my long delay
and expenses. Replied that it was difficult to decide concerning the wishes
of princes in such weighty matters, nor did I know how the King wished to
be served by us, nor could I ascertain with certainty what my Prince could
offer. It was theirs to ask, ours to comply with just and reasonable requests.
As far as concerned my Prince, nothing fair could be asked from him which
he would not willingly accept. My instructions showed this. He replied
that a general promise was not enough to contract friendship, it must be
stated specifically. Said that I had given special articles about making
peace with Lubeck, and contracting friendship with the King, three weeks
ago, to Cromwell; and if I had his answer I would rather go with it myself
than entrust it to a servant. He said he had heard nothing before this of the
articles; that the King would dine with Cromwell on Tuesday, and I therefore could have nothing certain till Thursday. Sent Bedell a letter on
returning home, that he might not forget. |
| Wrote the supplication on Tuesday, which I wished him to give the King
personally if there was an opportunity. Went to Cromwell's house in the
evening, when the King was there. When he saw me, he gave Cromwell
charge to despatch me, who sent a servant to bid me return next day and
have my answer. |
| Went on Thursday to Bedell, and asked him whether he had done anything in my business. He said he had not been able to do anything, as
Cromwell was occupied in entertaining the King. He advised me to go
myself to Cromwell, as he was better, and received people. Went to him,
and he said almost the same as Bedell. He praised my Prince, and extolled
the King's power; if we had come before, he thought it would have been
much to our advantage; the King, on account of the small sum of money
which he had lent them, could not show himself difficult to the cities when
they offered friendship. Said we did not know till lately that the Lubeckers
were seeking help here, therefore we had not sent sooner; my Prince could
perform all that the Lubeckers offered, more honorably and better than
they. Instanced the promise of 10,000 foot, which they could not supply.
He replied that he believed they had promised mountains of gold, but how
could England go back from her promises? Said that this could be easily
done, as the Lubeckers had given the King false information. He replied
that the Lubeckers had never said anything about the election of my Prince,
and therefore the King had written to the Lubeckers; he was grieved also
that they had stirred up a peasants' insurrection in Denmark. Said they
had acted treacherously with us; they had done this in the name of king
Christiern, to keep us from our right, but my Prince would rather lose his
life than give up his election. He replied, "You have no right." Said
that the choice of the councillors was on us, which alone was enough in an
elective kingdom. He said that the peasants and citizens had not consented
to my Prince. Said their consent was not necessary; the councillors had
always elected the King in Denmark, as history testified. He replied that
Christiern had the greatest right to recover Denmark. Said the councillors
had not driven him from the kingdom without the best reasons, nor had he
kept the articles to which he had sworn. Danish kings were created with
certain conditions; if they did not keep what they swore to, the people
were free to revolt from them; nor did they do fealty to their King except
on these conditions. He exclaimed, "O wretched king!" Said it was so.
Nor was it our custom to negociate by falsehood; the hope of our victory was
in open truth. He asked me to wait, giving me hope of sustentation and
recompense for past troubles. Said I would wait if hope were held out of
any use, or if there were any necessity; if not, I would depart; let him
make an answer to my articles, but if he would not, at least to my instructions. He said my articles were honorable; he wished I had come sooner.
Replied that even now there was time for them to help my Prince with
authority alone, without expense; the Lubeckers had promised the quiet
possession of Denmark to the King or his nominee; let the King bid them
give it to my Prince. He replied he would omit nothing that would tend
to cement peace. He had no news from those parts for a long time; he
did not know how matters were going now; he therefore advised me to
remain, in case anyone came from Lubeck, in case anything could be done.
Said also that I had no news nor orders to treat with Lubeck, therefore I
could not tarry unless for a certain prospect of advantage to my Prince.
He promised me an answer to my instructions in three days. Showed him
to what articles an answer was wanted. He said he had the whole business
in his memory. |
| On Monday after the third Sunday from Easter, (fn. 11) 13 (12) April, I returned.
Found Cromwell in the hall in which the King had previously dined. He
had in the window near him two letters and some angelots. When I
approached, he said I had, instead of an answer, letters and a reward from
the King, which I ought not to despise; if I came back, as he hoped, I
should have a better answer. He asked me to commend him to my Prince.
My long waiting was due to his ill-health; he was sorry I had taken it
ill. Thanked him for the reward, and promised to deliver the letters. I
said I did not doubt my requests were carefully answered. He replied
that the effect of the letters was that the King was grieved that the
Lubeckers had excited insurrection in Denmark, and he desired friendship
with the duke of Holstein if the Duke wished it. Said we desired nothing
but friendship, and I had come on that account alone, nor did my Prince
want anything but to have peace with the King and all Christian princes.
I asked what he wished us to think about the treaty which the Lubeckers
had entered into with the King. He replied, with his hand on his breast,
which serves for an oath among the English, that I might believe certainly
that no new treaty had been made with Lubeck, which had old friendship
with England. Asked what about the copy which I had given him; had
the Lubeckers forged it? He replied that the Lubeckers were free to
write and publish what they pleased, the King could not forbid it. Asked
whether we or the Lubeckers could count on the King's help. He replied
that I might be quite certain that the King would attempt nothing against
us, as he wished neither the duke of Holstein nor anyone else to be
oppressed. Asked again whether I ought to say this as certain to my
Prince, so that if matters turned out otherwise, I might not be found to have
spoken falsely. Placing his hand on his breast again, he replied, "You
may tell your Prince, and I promise it on my faith, that the King will
keep what I promise and say in his name." I suggested, what about giving
aid? He said he did not know, but believed that the King would help
neither us nor the Lubeckers. Said that then he meant to be neutral. He
replied that he believed so, but did not know. Said it was necessary to
have some certain answer, for my Prince had sent me to England to know
the King's intentions; I must have something certain to take back; I would
rather go to the King himself, as he seemed uncertain, and ask him. He
replied that the King did not wish to injure either us or any prince. He
forbade me to go back to Court; it was the custom for him to reply to
foreigners in the King's name; he could get no other answer for me than
what he had given; even if I went back to Court I should not be able
to see the King, as he was very busy, and Cromwell had been charged to
despatch me. As I was standing thoughtful and ill at ease, he sent for
Christopher, and angrily bade him tell me that I could have no other answer
than he had given me. He saw I was not content, and wished to go to
the King; could I not believe his words? He knew for certain that the
King would not see me. Said I did not distrust his words; I only wished
for an interview with the King because I wished for something certain to
take back. He replied that nothing more certain could be said at present.
He asked me to offer his services to my Prince. Said I would do what
was asked. Asked if the King did not wish to employ the services of
my Prince or the councillors in anything, for both had offered to serve him
as far as they could. He replied that there was nothing to ask for now;
I must assist in procuring friendship; perhaps afterwards there might be a
request. I asked for a passport and my articles. He promised to send
me a safe-conduct, and asked to be allowed to keep the articles. Pretended
I had no copy. He replied that doubtless they were fresh in my memory,
and promised to keep them secret. Asked to be allowed to copy them. He
gave the job to Christopher, to whom I dared not entrust anything of the
kind. Pressed him to let me copy "meam salinam," but in vain. I interceded
for Henry Luchtemaker, whose affair he promised to show the King, and
then pretended that he could not stand on account of illness. Received the
safe-conduct on Tuesday, and left Gravesend on Friday. |
| Account of his journey to Vere, whence he sailed for Scotland on
Tuesday (27 April). Came in sight of England on the fifth day, and neared
the Scotch coast on the 7th. Saw the castle of the Bass Rock (arcem Basth),
situated on a vast rock, covered with countless birds which the Scotch
call "gant" (gannet). The Warden makes 400 gold pieces a year from
the feathers and fish which the birds bring there. On Monday before
Ascension Day came to Dundee (oppidum Dondii). Stopped there four
days, as the master of the ship sent a man to the King with the Emperor's
letters. On Friday after Ascension Day came to the ferry dividing
Edinburgh from Dundee. Arrived at Edinburgh on Saturday at midday,
and hired horses for next day, as the King was on the English border.
On Sunday evening arrived at Treborch (Dryburgh); on Monday noon
at Jedburgh (Jeduart). Met there John Camwell; told him I was sent by
Christian duke of Holstein, and asked him to inform the King of my
coming. On Tuesday met the hermit John Scotte, (fn. 12) who had left his wife
and children and property, and lived alone on bread and water or milk. It
is firmly believed in England, Scotland, and Italy that he fasted forty days
and nights. He says that whenever he is compelled by higher authority,
he can do the same by grace of the Virgin, and cannot die of starvation.
If he wished to do it for a bargain or by agreement, he could not do it.
He felt no hunger when he fasted, lost no strength or condition (corporis
habitudo), felt neither heat nor cold, went with bare head and feet in winter
and summer, did not grow old. Asked him why he left his wife. He said
he wished to fight for God, but did not care whet her his wife decided to
serve the world or God. A regular canon who chanced to be with us said
he had been asked by his wife to reconcile them, but it was of no use. |
| Asked if there were in Scotland trees on which birds grew, and was given
an account of them. There is a floating island (Delos), which goes from
shore to shore with the tide. There is a place eight miles in circumference
where no cocks crow, whether native or imported; taken elsewhere they
crow. The gannet (gandt) only lays one egg, and hatches it standing.
The wild Scots (sylvestres Scotos) live like Scythians. They know nothing
of bread; when hungry they kill a stag and eat the flesh raw, just squeezing
out the blood. Not far from Edinburgh is a mountain smoking like Etna,
which I saw. (fn. 13) In an abbey near is a place whence oil flows out of the
earth. In Irish Scotland is an island, where the sun is seen night and day in
summer. |
| On Wednesday (fn. 14) went to the King at an abbey called Jemoers (Melrose), of
which the abbot has 15,000 cr. a year. After mass greeted the King, who was
near the altar in hunting dress. Gave him letters, and was desired to defer
my business till he could summon his councillors. Asked him to do this as
soon as possible. Was desired to hand over any other writings, but said
that they were of such a kind that he could not do so except when he was
heard. Was told that the councillors would assemble in four days, and so
returned with John Camwell to Jeduart. |
| Near Dondy is an abbey, for six miles around which are innumerable
harmless snakes. Camwell told me that at Jemoers abbey, whenever a monk
was about to die, a few days before, the sound of a bell was heard in the
cells, on which they went to confession, uncertain who was summoned. (fn. 16)
He showed me three columns of jasper more than my height, and about a
cubit in circumference, which were from the mountains. He told me also
that the family of Constable in England formerly received their fief of the
king of the Danes. Now it is the custom that the eldest of the family every
Christmas goes to the sea towards the North. Three times he shouts that if
any one will take the rent in the name of the king of the Danes he will pay
it, and then shoots an arrow with a coin fixed on it into the sea. Camwell
said he had seen it done when staying with Marmaduke Constable.
Marmaduke himself said that neglect of this ceremony would entail forfeiture, and showed his "literæ pheudatoriæ" which enjoin it. Four years
ago Dr. (fn. 15) Marmaduke Constable told me the same tale, except that it was a
rose, not a coin, that was thrown into the sea; and on the feast of St. John
the Baptist, not at Christmas. From every house with a chimney in
England a coin is given, which the English call "rycks pennynck." |
| The four days were extended to three weeks, as the councillors were
administering justice on the Borders. On Whitsunday was entertained by
the councillors at Jeduart. Wrote on Tuesday in Whit week to the
Secretary that my business needed haste. He replied, bidding me go back
to Edinburgh; which I did; but neither the King nor the Chancellor was
there. Reminded the Secretary through my friends. On Corpus Christi
Day accompanied the procession. That day the Scotch messenger arrived
with letters, who had been sent on a fortnight before I was sent away. |
| On the first Sunday after Trinity (fn. 17) the Chancellor arrived. On Wednesday
the Privy Council assembled in the Chancellor's house. Handed in my
instructions, fearing a long delay if I waited for the King. Accompanied
the procession again on the octave of Corpus Christi. (fn. 18) On Saturday (fn. 19) went
to the Chancellor to ask for a speedy answer. He promised to help me,
saying that four days ago the instructions sent to the King had been
returned with an order that he should consult the other councillors about
giving a reply, that I might be despatched without delay when the King
arrived. He said that we asked for help at sea, and he asked me where the
money was to furnish the ships. Replied that my Prince believed that
skilful men might be found in Scotland who would enter our service with a
promise of honorable pay and a share of booty, and I was empowered to
promise that as soon as they arrived at one of the four ports (fn. 20) they should
have letters of marque (literæ bellicæ) and wages; but I could give no
other conditions. He said this was well; and he added that he had read
the speech of the Lubeckers, (fn. 21) which he found clearly heretical, as it
infringed the authority of the Pope; and he believed that whatever the
English had done against the Church they had done by persuasion of the
Lubeckers. Said that an ambassador from Lubeck was expected in England
about the time I left. He replied that, doubtless, his arrival was more
looked for there than mine. Said how much the king of England trusted
the Lubeckers, and that he had said to me that he knew for certain that the
Lubeckers were his friends. On which I reminded him that they had once
been friends of king Frederick, but now tried to ruin his sons, although by
the King's great kindness they had enjoyed the islands of Barnholm and
Gotland for some time. The Bishop asked how old my Prince was. Replied,
thirty or thirty-two. He wondered at this, and did not think he was so old.
Said the three other brothers were younger (minorennes). Told him the
war was about ecclesiastical matters, and asked him on that account to
favor my business; there were fourteen bishops in Denmark and Norway,
whose destruction was imminent if my Prince could not obtain his rights.
He replied that he would attend to it. Asked when I should come for an
answer. He said he would let me know, and told me meanwhile to use his
house. |
| On Tuesday (fn. 22) evening the King came to the abbey (fn. 23) near Edinburgh. On
Wednesday I again met the Chancellor. Asked him, now the King was here,
to remember my business. He said he had done it, and was doing it, more
than I knew or thought, and he bade me hope for a good answer. He asked
whether I knew Alexander More. Said I knew him. He wished to know
where he was. Said I supposed he was with my Prince, who used his help
in naval affairs. This pleased him. He nodded, smiling, to the others, and
added that More was of good family; that he had always done king Frederick's business steadfastly whenever he was here; lately he and his friends
had managed so that no aid was granted to Christiern when he asked for it.
Said that Frederick desired peace more than anything; that Christiern had
so behaved that his friends had no more faith in him. Mentioned, in proof
of this, the banquet in Sweden, where most of the nobility, and among them
three bishops, were slain. The Bishop replied that he had heard of this,
and also that he had drowned certain monks. Meanwhile it was commonly
said in Scotland that the Lubeckers were on Christiern's side. Said they used
his name to stir up sedition, but in fact they attempted either to get possession
of Denmark for themselves, or hand it over to England. The treaty they
had made with England proved this. The Bishop easily allowed himself to
be influenced, and said the King would not fail his kinsman. He said I had
written well about democracy,—that it was the worst mode of government.
The peasants wished to tread on the necks of kings,—which would turn out
ill for them; but he wished to know how, if the Lubeckers were subjects of
the Emperor, they could attack princes of the empire. Said that self-deception had given them such courage that they did not care for the Emperor
himself. A proof of this was that two years ago they waged war against the
Hollanders, and now it appeared from the treaty with England how much
they cared for the Emperor. He said he had read the speech of the
Lubeckers. Asked him how he liked it. He said it seemed to him very
heretical, because it tried to weaken the authority of the Church, and therefore he thought that whatever the English are now doing against the
Church was done by their persuasion. Replied that the Lubeckers and
Hamburghers were consulted about the marriage by Dr. Lee; the King also
had asked them to send ambassadors to England, and a speech was made
there, of which the Imperial ambassador gave me a copy, and afterwards the
treaty was discussed. He laughed at the King for neglecting the opinions
of kings and princes, and asking the advice of cities. Said I had heard the
King himself say that the Lubeckers were truly his friends, and that I had
replied that once they had been king Frederick's friends, but now they tried
to ruin his children. The Bishop asked whether Christiern's daughters were
given in marriage (?) (elocatas). Said I had heard it, but it was settled
that everything concerning Christiern and his children must be negotiated
with the Emperor; there were letters patent sealed and confirmed about this.
He wondered that no provision was made for his daughters in the succession
of Denmark. Said that the Emperor was then surrounded by various
difficulties. Attacked by the Turk, he could have no help from France, England almost professed open enmity, Germany was not quiet. In consequence
of these circumstances the Emperor made a treaty with us. He thought he
could marry (elocare) his daughters honorably enough any how. Was told
to come back next day. |
| On Thursday (fn. 24) the King went to the castle (prætorium) at Edinburgh,
with a great company of nobles, bishops, and abbots. Met the Secretary, who
promised an answer in two days, as did also the Lord [Clerk] Register. Wrote
a supplication to the Chancellor, and called on him after dinner. He said
he had read my supplication, and that I might be sure that the King was
deeply concerned about his kinsman; that he would not neglect our interests,
notwithstanding what the Lubeckers said, that he was on Christiern's side.
Replied that the Lubeckers had given such a specimen of their covetousness,
but in truth were plotting something more, as appeared from the contract
they had entered into with the English. Warned him again how much the
king of England trusted the Lubeckers, and that he was looking after
Denmark. This appeared from his own words. The Chancellor replied
that the Danes had ruled England; now the English tried to govern the
Danes in turn. I might be assured that my business was not only being
attended to, but was almost turning on the hinge. Asked him to tell me
what day he wished me to return. This he said he could not do yet. |
| On Sunday (fn. 25) went to the Chancellor, who told me the matter was concluded.
The Secretary said the same, and that nothing was wanting but the King's
signature. John Champuel had told me the day before in the castle (prætorium) that my business was well settled. The Secretary wanted three days
for sealing and copying. Went back on Wednesday, and received a message
from the servant that the letters had not yet come from the King, and I must
come again tomorrow. On Thursday, the same; but the Chancellor told me
that the King would send to persuade the king of England to give up his
intention about Denmark, and to the Lubeckers to ask why they waged war
on a kinsman of his; and if their reply was inadequate, he would bid them
cease; if they would not, it would be an occasion for war. Said the answer
was good, but my Prince was not helped. They said I asked it now for the
first time. I said I had asked for ships: they in return spoke of embassies.
Had I not asked, he said, for an embassy to be sent to England? Replied
that I did not deny it, but I had never asked for one to Lubeck, as I knew it
was of no use. Other princes had tried to finish the war by friendly arrangement, but their requests had had no weight with the Lubeckers. If they
sent now, the only answer they would have would be that they are taking
Christiern's part; meanwhile, what they are doing is clear from the English
treaty. The Secretary asked if I had been in England (so little he knew of
my affairs); he added also that report confirmed that what the Lubeckers
were doing was for Christiern, and that it was said that there was in
Denmark another count of Oldenborch, who was as near in blood to the King
as my Prince. Said the relationship was not so near, and showed him the
count of Oldenborch was in a collateral line, while my Prince was in the
direct line. Said my petition was, first, that the King should move his
subjects to help my Prince with ships for wages and free plunder; and,
secondly, that he himself should give us some ships. If the King would do
nothing himself, the first part was easy; and I asked them to help me, as I
did not know the language well. The Chancellor replied that the King
could permit this, but could not order it, and asked me to come to dinner.
Went to John Champuel, and complained of the answer, saying there was no
cause to have kept me so long in hopes; if they were not disposed to grant
anything else, at all events they might allow the people to serve us for
wages. He promised to talk of this with the councillors. Went immediately
to Lyth, gave the letters to Albert Bartuen, and showed him my business.
He replied that he could do nothing without a definite order from the King
and Council. Said I would perhaps come back with it. |
| After dinner John Champuel told me that he had spoken about my affairs
with the Secretary. Replied I had not found the Secretary very favorable,
and our conversation showed he had not understood my business. Champuel
asked if he had not seen the instructions. Said he had seen them, but had
not understood them, or perhaps read them carefully; and desired him not
to be offended at my plain speaking. He replied he could not be offended at
any one who spoke the truth, and wished that all were as favorable to me as
he himself was. I wished, on the other hand, that all understood my business
as well as he did. Then I gave him the heads of the treaty with England
to read. The Chancellor came in, and asked what we were reading, and
told me not to trouble myself, the letters would show that the answer was in
better form than I thought. Replied that the Lubeckers had already ruined
by treachery one of their kinsfolk (for they had stirred up Frederick against
Christiern, though he had plenty of cause for war on his own account), and now
they were in hostility with another. If they could not protect both, at all
events let them help the one in possession. This could be done without
expense if they allowed us to hire ships. Told them I had spoken to Albert
Bartuen, and found him ready to serve my Prince, but that he was waiting
for orders. The Bishop promised to consult with the Council. |
| On Friday morning, (fn. 26) the Secretary refered me to the clerks to see the
letters. Was asked how I liked them. Replied as before, that the letters
were good, but that my Prince was not helped by them. I asked that they
might be signed at once, for I must make haste to embark. After dinner
went back to the Chancellor; the Secretary was there also. While they
were conversing he ordered one of the clerks to talk to me; to whom I said,
as before, that the reply did not help my Prince. At last the Chancellor
sent for me, and asked me if I had read the letters. Said I had read them,
and my opinion was the same as before. The Secretary said it was not
my business to answer the letters, but I ought to take what was given, nor
should I get any other answer. I asked if he wished to prevent my saying
what I thought to my Prince's interest. The Bishop interrupted the discussion, saying that I did right in urging what was my duty, but no other
answer could be given, nor could we have any aid while Christiern was
alive, because both princes were similarly related to the King. Hearing
this, said I was satisfied, nor should I meddle further if we could get
no help during Christiern's life. Asked for the letters, and leave to depart.
They said this should be done at once, and added that honorable mention
was made of me in the letters. Thanked them for this, saying I had
nothing to complain of; that I feared they would ruin the survivor of their
kinsman by delay, the other being already destroyed by the treachery of the
Lubeckers; perhaps, when they wished to help us, they would not be able.
The Chancellor asked why I said that Christiern was destroyed, whom I had
previously affirmed to be alive. Answered that he was first driven out of
his kingdom by the Lubeckers, and then deprived of his liberty; was not
this destruction? The Secretary suggested that the Lubeckers were now
penitent, and wished to restore him, and were fighting on his behalf. Replied
that the Lubeckers made this pretence, but the treaty with England showed
that they meant the contrary; if they believed the empty rumors of the
enemy more than my instructions, I had wasted too much time there. The
Bishop, interrupting, said this was not so, and asked by whom Christiern
was kept prisoner. Replied, by the councillors of the kingdom. The Secretary
said indignantly that they had wrongfully driven him out, and now kept him
prisoner. Replied that it was publicly known by what right or wrong
Christiern was expelled, nor did I wish to discuss it. Still, if anyone wished
to defend him, I had something to say on the other side. The Chancellor
replied that he did not wish to judge between friendly princes, nor did he
wish to help in setting Christiern free; nor, on the other hand, could they
help us in keeping him a prisoner; Christiern, though a prisoner, had a
claim to the kingdom, and he might be restored by these disturbances.
Replied that nothing was impossible to God, but we hoped differently. The
Bishop added that if Christiern were dead, as was reported, no one had a
better right to Denmark than our Prince; then there would be no hesitation
in helping him, but it would be done as in the time of king John; ships
would be sent at once, without regard to the enemy, Lubeckers, or any one
else. Said that my Prince knew that they had helped former princes, and
therefore he asked for aid, and I desired them to help me to get ships. The
Bishop remarked that I had no money at present. Replied that that was so,
but I hoped that, by the King's authority, his subjects might be induced to
come with their ships to our ports; directly they arrived, they should be
dealt with about wages, and free booty and letters of marque (literæ bellicæ)
given them, that they might be known to be in our service. The Bishop
said we must first be satisfied with letters. If the king of England were to
write that he aimed at Denmark because it was offered him by the Lubeckers,
there was no doubt they ought to help us; if he wrote that he meant to
abstain from helping the Lubeckers, Christiern, although in prison, ought
not to be injured; the matter had been much discussed in the Council, but
nothing juster could be devised. Thanked the Bishop for his attention to my
affairs, and asked for the Lubecker's speech back. He desired me to come
again on Saturday morning. |
| Found the Secretary there that day, whom I thanked for his assistance,
and begged him to excuse anything I had said too freely; that I was not
actuated by private interests, but by my fidelity to my Prince. He replied
that he helped all foreigners, and he could not take it ill that I had done all
I could for my Prince. Met the Bishop after mass, who, seeing me somewhat
sad, bade me be of good courage, for all would end well. Replied that I had
been sad as long as any hope remained of getting help, but now that hope
was taken away I had laid aside my cares, for I saw they would do no good.
He replied about [the king of] England, what has been said before; if he
(the King) did not reply satisfactorily, it might be as I wished: I must
acquiesce in the opinion of the councillors. Replied that I did so necessarily
and willingly, because I had attempted the contrary in vain. |
| Left Edinburgh on Sunday. (fn. 27) Waited at Dundee nine days for a ship.
Sailed on Monday, (fn. 28) and was 17 days at sea. Arrived at Vere on the eve
of the Division of the Apostles. (fn. 29) |
| Lat. |
| On the cover of the MS. is a draft letter of Suavenius to a brother of
Melchior Rantzov, written from London, in a Low German dialect. |
| R. O. | 1179. State Papers. |
|---|
| An inventory of letters and documents, with the names of the writers
in the margin. [Most of the papers belong to the period of this volume, and
where the originals have been identified, references are given to the Nos. of
the entries in the Calendar.] |
| From "Mr. Wallop" [a previous leaf appears to be missing]:— |
| "[an]d how thadmyrall shewed hym that themperour had sent unto
[the p]oope to enter into leage of Italy. And ..... if he wolde [so do
that he] wold make the Kyng our master to retorne ag[ai]n [to] the [Church
of] Rome. And how thadmyrall shewed [hi]m that the mari[age of my
lad]y Prynces shuld take effecte. And ............. of Portyngale
his ambassadour for his ............. entendeth to have a
determynat peace ............ or the Frensshe kyng. |
| "A lettre [dated] the x..jth daie of Februaire, how that the Turke
hathe ta[ken] peace with Soffia. And of the departu[re] of the Frenshe
kyng into Normandy. And of the losse [of] xxx. vessels of Barbarossa. |
| "A lettre dated the xxvijth daie of F[ebr]uary of tharrivall of [the] Poopes
ambassadour there. And that the P[oope and the duke of] Ferrar will not
as yet enter into t[h]e l[eague, but be between] them neuter. And of the
Com ............. Emperours ambassadour, which ambas[sadour]
.......... beyng there had no commyssion to communycat .......... concernyng mariage or such or like savyng one ....... unto
certeyn articles. And that the same ambas[sadour] ..... some gode
way shalbe betwene the Kyng and ............ thadmyralles comyng
to Caleis. And (fn. 30) that ........... pension with my lady Prynces.
And how th ......... [gon] (fn. 31) poyntted to go into Portyngale of truthe
for the mar[riage of that King's] doughter to m[on]sr. de Angollame.
An[d] ............ Kyng hathe taken into his handes the tempora[l
goods of the clergy] which to pacifie hym have graunted viijc ml [1. towards
his necessite.] And that the Frensshe [ky]ng ............ handes
all the salte of Fraunce ................... his woddes to the
value [of ...] jc ml fraunk ........... yerely in all to xijc ml
[crown]es. A[nd] ............ betwene thadmy[ral]l .... and
the .......... next heire to * * * |
| "A lettre dated xixth daie of Januarie .......... the punysshment of hereses in Fraunce ................. and of certeyn leages
made by them ................... and that the Frensshe quene
had .................. mariage betwene themperours d[aughter
and] ..... |
| "A lettre dated xxiiijth daie of Jan[uary] of Mr. Peneson to be one of the
1. men of arme[s] .... he percase (?) of the revenuez grauntted to the Ky[n]g ....... heres. And of thassemble of the spiritualtie ........
viijth daie of Janu[ary]. And of the congregacion [of the est]ates of the
spiritualt[ie] there abou[t] Midlent. |
| "A letter d[at]ed the ixth daie of Februarie mencionyng the depar[ture]
of [the T]urkes ambassadour. And of thoccurraunttes of the Tu[rkes and]
fortificacion of dyvers townes of Sophia. And how that [Mons.] Pomery shall
supplie Monsr. de Morrettes rome. And of [the o]pen fame of the Kyng and
the Frensshe kynges metyng ..... proffe that the money of May was not
emploied. |
| "A lettre dated the xvth daie of Februarie of such comunycacion as hathe
ben betwene hym and themperours ambassadour. And that he hathe no
commyssion therfore, but a lettre from a frende of his, beyng one of themperours most secret counsell that his doyng was well accepted. |
| "A lettre dated the xxth d[aie o]f Februarie concernyng thalteracion of
the name of the yerly pension to be called an aide geven unto the Kyng
for the conquest of Denmark and Ireland. And of [t]heir pretensid amytie
surmysed to be made betwene the emperor and the Frensshe kyng and of
other circumstaunces betwene [t]hadmyrall [and] hym. And that the yerely
money paid for salt must b[e no] lenger paid if they conclude anythyng the
Admyra[ll] ...... m. And of my lord Williams sendying into [Scotland]
....... not the Frensshemen. And that the ...............
the kyng of Scottes and the Frensshe .............. not procede." |
| [Second leaf.]—"A byll of newes sent to the Duke ...... |
| "An extract of lettres dated at .............. Januarie. |
| "An extract of lettres dated a[t] .......... the xiijth daie of
November. |
| "An extract of lettres dated at [Constant]ynople the xxvjth day of
October. |
| "Newes out of Secelle taken out of lettres dated the x..daie of
Januarie. |
| "Newes of the late attempted renovacion of the leage Swevyk. |
| "[An ex]tract of lettres sent from Constantynople the xixth da[y of]
December. |
| "An extract of lettres dated at Gene. |
| "Two writynges of instruccions sent by thadmyrall of Fraunce to Monsr.
Palamydes of one effect. And ij. other of like instruccions. |
| "[T]he Epitaphie of Clement late busshop [of Rome]. |
| "A lettre sent from the rulers of Denmark, certefiyng [the election] of
their Kyng. |
| "..... [o]f instructions made by the duke of Holsatia [to Peter]
Suavenius Secretarie of the .... |
| "[The] copy of a lettre sent from the Lubecians to [the King]. |
| "The Kynges answer to the credence and memorialles to hym delyvered
by the Traisau[rer Pa]lamedes. |
| "A remembrance of the D ........... together with his
request. |
| [Third leaf.] From Pate.— |
| "A lettre from Mr. Pate to th ......... daie of Januarie. |
| "A lettre to my master that same ty[me]. |
| "A lettre to the Kyng the last daie ......... |
| "A lettre to my master that same tym[e]. |
| "A lettre to the Kyng dated the viijth [daie of] Februarie. |
| "A lettre to the Kyng the xth daie o[f] ...... e. |
| "A lettre to my master the xijth daie of Februarie. |
| "A lettre to the Kyng dated the xvjth daie of Februarie. |
| "And a lettre to my [maste]r the same daie. |
| "[A c]opy of a lettre sent from the cardynall of Seuilla [to Mr.] Pate. |
| "[A cop]y of themperours lettre sent to the seid Cardynall in fa[vour of]
Englisshemen imprisoned for heresie. |
| "A lettre sent unto the Kyng the last daie of Januarie from Laurence
Stauber at Neuuenmarket with certeyn newes. [See No. 139.] |
| "A lettre to the Kyng from Cassalius the prothonotarie the xiijth daye of
Februarie, with a copy of the busshop of Zagrabien [hi]s lettres sent to the
s[ai]d Cass[a]lius dated the xxijth daie of January, and the copy of the
busshop of Sirmya his lettres sent to the seid bushop [o]f Zagrabien the
vth day of Januarye [No. 91]. |
| "[A lettr]e to my master the same d[ai]e. |
| "[A] l[ettre] s[ent t]o the Kyng without date. |
| "............. [t]he xvjth daie of Februarie. |
| "............. [my] master the first daie of Februarie. |
| "A lettre sent to Caleis concernyng the prechyng of [Mr. L]atymer [253]. |
| "[The l]orde Lysle his lettre concernyng the ........ |
| "[The c]ertificat of the Commyssioners made to the viewe of Sewley
Fennes a[n]d Shertwod (?)." |
| [Fourth leaf.] |
| "A lettre from Cuthbert Ogle with twoo se[als] ............ the
Kynge's pardon for such tenthes and dys[mes as his Grace] shuld have oute
of his benyfice [261]. |
| "A lettre from my lord Chancellour fo ............. for Kynges
Wood Hethe, to have y[erely] ............ and xl. s. of yerely rent,
wherof .............. have takyn no profyt this iijc ye[res]. |
| "John Smyth complaynt again[st] .......... his wif for certeyn
plate and joyell ......... |
| "Renold Lytilprowe a lettre withoute d[ate f]o[r] the maire of [Norwich]
to comaunde the bochers of [Norwych] to bryng calv[es into the] market,
and of the deth of the Priores of Carow [318]. |
| "A lettre from tharchbus[sh]opp of Yorke concernyng his callyng upon
the collectoures to send upp such money as they be charged with. |
| "Sir John Dudley, knyght, a lettre dated le xxvth day of Februar
concerning the matier bitwene hym and Guldeford [264]. |
| "...... Poulet, a lettre concerning the delyvery of Evers out of the
Flete, [the] rather at his request. |
| "George Browne, frere, a lettre dyssyryng the respyttyng of the matiers
of thabbot of Meryvall and Mr. Turvylle to his comyng. |
| "Sir Robert Wynfeld, a lettre concerning his graunt to hym made of Meane
Broke, &c., and of his greate charges therein susteyned. |
| "The busshopp [of Lychfild].—A lettre requeryng the executour of his
predicessour to be sent for and to be at a poynt with hym for the housse of
Lychfild. |
| "........ [An a]nswer of the Kynges lettre directed to hym that
he shuld ........ [admi]tt nor inducte any persone to any benefice or
.......... within his diocese till the Kyng be duely answered [of the
tenths and other pr]ofyttes, and the value of certeyn benefices ........
had of the busshopp of Rome, concerning his busshop[ric] ........
late of Saint Davyes. |
| "The maister of Saint Thomas of Acres, a lettre that he can [hav]e no
money paid of the persones cessed for payment of [the] laborers except xl. li.
of the abbot of Saint Augustynes .......... can have, oonles it shall
please the Kyng to paye ..... and that the other owners may be compelled
[likewise] to pay, and that he, Mr. Boughton and Mr. Draper goo [in fea]r
of their lyves by the said laborers [VII. 1636]. |
| "....... re a lettre declaryng his troble by processe directe for [the
profi]tes of shirifwek of Northumberland by hym occupied ..........
[a]nd of his greate charges by thoccasion of rebelles as [Sir William] Lyle
and his parte takers, and desyryng therfore to have [the Kinges] pardon or
other discharge. |
| "[Anthony Se]ntleger, a lettre dated the ijde day of Marche, concerning
the priour of [C]ristchurch in Canturbury is answer for tymbre to b[e] had
in Horsley Comen [314]. |
| "Sir Fraunces Brya[n], a lettre concerning a French boke sent to my
maister and desiryng his bill to be signed for Raunston an[d] also Adams
byll to be remembred [283]. |
| "Sir Fraunces Bryan, an other lettre concerning ... [ge]ldynges stollen
from Edmund Conquest by tw[o thieves] whero[f] the oon was hanged at
Cristme[s] .......... the said geldynges were sold in ............. and his copartyner [305]. |
| "Tharchebusshopp of Canterbury.—A lettre concerning the preferment
of Thomas [Bartelet] to my master is service, dated the first day of
Marche [306]. |
| "Lord Sandes, a lettre how victaylles (victuallers) can by (buy) no ca[ttle
at] price resonable, and complayne sore against graciou[rs] [350]. |
| "Tharchibusshop of Canterbury, a lettre concernyng lettres to hym
directe out of Alm[aine]. |
| "Sir John Nevyll, a lettre concerning the dethe of oone ..........
Hanford (sic, qu. Hansard?) withoute issue male, &c. [298] |
| "Thomas Cheyne, a lettre of .................. to Lylgrave
in his fa[vour] [356?]. |
| "Tharle of Wilshire, a lettre ............... [Fr]enche [king]
agayne, dated the .......... |
| "Sir William T ............................. dated
the .........." |
| [Fifth leaf.] |
| "The busshopp of Norwych, a lettre declaryng the dethe of the late
prio[ress of Carowe], and how the nonnes there desire the Kynges [licence]
to have ther eleccion for a priores, dated [the 3d day of] Marche [317]. |
| "Edward Becke, a lettre dated [at the Hollehed the 10th day] of February
of newes in those [parts] [193]. |
| "Thomas Wandesworth of Bom[in] (prior of Bodmin), concerning] the
tythyng Fisshe of Padstowe [VII. 222]. |
| "William Brabzon, a lettre d[ated at Du]bly [n the 15th] day of February,
of the new[s of those] parties [222]. |
| "Sir Edward Wotton, knyght, a lettre [d]ated the vjth [day] of March,
concerning thabbes of Mallyng [349]. |
| "William, abbot of York, a lettre withoute date concerning the trobl[e] of
his servant Manfild [313]. |
| "R[obert] Fowler, vice-treasourer of Calais, a lettre dated [at Ca]lais the
vth day of March, concerning ml. ml. li. to be left there [for the] Kynges
workes [347]. |
| "Sir Thomas Denys, knyght, a lettre dated the ixth day of Octobre, concerning the pryour and priory of Frystok in Devon. [Not found.] |
| "John Clyford and Elizabeth his wife, against Humffrey Monmouthe, a
byll of complaynt. |
| "The bushopp of Bath, a lettre dated at Welles, the xxjth day of
Februar, concerning the mysuse or oblyvyous rehersall of Doctor Carsley
in his sermond by hym made in the Cathedrall Churche of Welles [254]. |
| "Thab[bo]t of Saint Mary of York, a lettre dated at York [on the] xviijth
[d]ay of February, concerning the getheryng of [the King]es subsidie, and
concerning also the advoson of Kirkby [on the] Hyll [236]. |
| "................ lettre with a lettre patent, &c., dated the
.......... ry. |
| "John Pyttes, prest, parson of Shyre, dated Sonday next [a]fter newers
day, wrytten to Mr. Stydall, with a lettre in hys ......... te to the said
parson, from Sir Edmond Bretyn. |
| "[William Ly]lgrave, a lettre dated at Calais, the xix. day of ....... |
| "[The bish]opp of Bangor, a lettre dated at Hyde, [the firs]t day of
Marche, concernyng certificates ........ ng commandement by hym to
be made [of the s]piritual promotions within his diocese [307]. |
| "Sir [Frau]ncez Bryan, a lettre dated at Amptill, the xxvijth day [of]
February [278]. |
| "John Alyn, a lettre o[ut] of Irelond, with a deposicion against Justis De
la Hyde [226]. |
| "Copie of the peace takyn bitwe[ne the King ou]r maister and the French
kyng, by Pomerey." |
| Pp. 10.—There is also a detached fragment on a separate leaf, containing
the words "[spiritu]all promotions" and "the fruits and p[rofits]," and on a
third line "such bulls as." |