Henry VIII: March 1545, 21-25 | British History Online

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 20 Part 1, January-July 1545. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1905.

'Henry VIII: March 1545, 21-25', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 20 Part 1, January-July 1545, (London, 1905) pp. 179-193. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol20/no1/pp179-193 [accessed 25 April 2024]

March 1545, 21-25



21 March.	398. The Privy Council to Paget.
R. O. St. P., x. 358.	The King has seen his letters and those which he wrote together with Mr. Utton (Wotton), and, because their common letter was already answered and the articles sent, for a full answer to the rest, signify that the minute of Paget's letter to the Queen of Navarre is not returned because that matter is to be left as it is; and, as to the strangers who offer service, as it is doubtful whether the Emperor would suffer them to pass and is expedient only to entertain known men of experience and estimation, the King will not as yet entertain any of those there, and desires Paget to fashion the answer to them in good terms.
	Draft in Petre's hand, p. 1. Endd.: M. to Mr. Paget, xxj^o Marcii 1544.
21 March.	399. [Anth. Bourchier] to ———
R. O.	The King having given the Queen all money due to him by John Smythe, dec, late receiver general to Queen Katharine, attainted, these are to command you to pay to Wimund Carew, treasurer and receiver general to the Queen that now is, all money due by the said John Smith of the lands of the said Queen Katharine, and this my letter shall be your sufficient warrant therein. 21 March 36 Hen. VIII.
	Draft, p. 1.
21 March.	400. Durham Cathedral.
Close Roll 37 Hen. viii. p. 4, No. 18. Rymer, xv. 71.	Surrender by Hugh Whytehed, S.T.P., dean of Durham, and the chapter of that cathedral (in consideration that the King exonerates them from the charge, by the statutes of their foundation, 16 May 33 Hen. VIII., to maintain twelve students of theology at the University of Oxford at the annual cost of 9l. 11s. 8d. each), of the lordships and manors of Ketton and Hessilden alias Monkehessilden, lands (specified) in Eden and elsewhere in the parish of Hessilden, and Bradbury in the parish of Suggefelde, Dhain., lands in Longhandborowe, Oxon, the rectories of Frampton, Line, and Ruddyngton, Notts, with advowsons of the vicarages, and all their lands in the places aforesaid, except the rectories and advowsons of the vicarages of Ayckley and Hessilden, and all tithes in co. Durham. Dated 21 March 36 Hen. VIII.
21 March.	401. The Earl of Cassillis.
R. O. St. P., v. 422.	Arran's protection to Gilbert earl of Cassillis, now being entered in England as prisoner for the relief of his pledges, to repair into Scotland to do his lawful business with Arran and his Council during the space of 20 days from this date; provided that he seduce none of the lieges to the faith and opinion of England or otherwise to labour the hurt of the realm. Edinbrwgh, 21 March 1544.
	Copy in Cassillis's hand, p. 1. Endd.: (fn. n1) D. Cardinalis Cancellarius, Ard. erll of Angws, George erll of Errol, Abbot of Paslay, George Dowglas.
21 March.	402. Paget to Petre.
r. o.	By our letters to the King you may perceive that, if our proceedings end "as the beginning doth prognosticate, the fish whereof you wrote is like shortly to be gotten." Now I have accomplished my commission for the arrest and broached the other matter, I look to be revoked, as you trusted I should be by next letters. Thinks his return necessary; for, being sent to obtain the discharge of the arrest or else learn what to trust to therein, and incidentally to prick the Emperor forward to the practising of a peace, now that this matter is set forth upon the Emperor's own offer, his tarrying here while it is practised would make the world think that suit had been made to the Emperor therein. If the King will have him tarry here still, he must send home for necessaries, as the Emperor departs towards the Diet immediately after Easter, and Paget has neither apparel, bedding, plate nor money. Bruseles, 21 March.
	Hol, pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1544.
[21 Mar.]	403. Schore and Scepperus to Charles V.
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 40.	Brief account of their dealing with Paget "yesterday" and with the French ambassadors "this morning." (fn. n2) The latter had received despatches which made it necessary for them to ask for audience in a matter touching the Emperor's interests. Morette said afterwards that it touched another truce, so that the writers expect that it is about the Turk.
22 March.	404. Wharton to Shrewsbury.
Shrewsb. MS. A., p. 333. Heralds' College.	Thanks for his noble letters in his own hand, with the copies enclosed, and showing his goodness and favour. Sent, indeed, to my lord of Cumbreland, by Mr. Swinfurth, "who is in office and fee with him, but not in such sort as was written." I wish your Lordship and all the Council knew "all my mesages and dewyses, and how ye sam wyth mane er takyn, and not to ye best, as I thynke. Wyth ye adwyse off wyse men I dow use to ye best for serves off ye Kynges Mageste. I pray God y^t order may be kepete as shallbe apoyntyd wyth suche obedyence as appertenyth." Wishes that he might wait upon Shrewsbury. Kerlesle, 22 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.
22 March.	405. Hew Campbell of Lowdoun [Sheriff of Ayr] to Cassillis.
R. O.	I have done anent your writings all I could and trust that if you are here at this convention on Palm Sunday (fn. n3) you shall labour some good way for both realms with the help of my lord of Argyll, Angus and other your friends not now present. Pray hasten home and "tak na feyr of ony danger heyr for ony terour may be gevyn zow be zour licens, and to gyf credens to ye berar." Lowdown, Sunday, 22 March.
	Hol, p. 1. Add.
22 March.	406. Memorandum of Negotiations.
Spanish Calendar, viii. No. 31.	The English ambassadors announced (fn. n4) that they had received instructions to answer the Emperor, viz., (1) That as the King had released all his seizures the Emperor should do the like. (2) That they would agree to a Court of Arbitration to judge claims and settle how the Netherlander might trade with France. (3) That with regard to the ambassador from Scotland the King thanked the Emperor and begged that he might be promptly dismissed with the reply that when the Scots made peace with England they would be at peace with the Emperor. The King thanked the Emperor for expressing a wish that he might be at peace; he entered war with France in order that a general peace might be the sooner secured and allow a stronger resistance to the Turk, but he did not think the mission of this Scottish ambassador should be used to open negociations—rather that the Emperor should open them himself, using the conditions which Wotton exhibited after the return of Arras (fn. n5) as the basis of the King's demands, and telling the French that for his reputation's sake the King could never surrender Boulogne.
	The Emperor's deputies asked how the Netherlanders were to trade with France pending the decision of the arbitration court, and the ambassadors replied that their King could not consent to such trade without prejudicing his claim for the declaration against France; but he would, Paget said, connive at it. They then delivered a draft for release of seizures, founded upon that handed to them by the Imperial commissioners, and suggested Calais on the 1st of May for the meeting of the arbitration court.
	The same evening the President and Mons. D'Eick were with Paget and told him that, expecting the King's reply to be what it was, the Emperor, three days ago, incidentally, mentioned to the French ambassadors a wish for peace; and they answered that they would not reject any advances. He thereupon asked them what could be done about Boulogne, for he could not ask the Kings to divide it as Solomon decided in the case of the disputed child. Now that one of the French ambassadors (fn. n6) is returning, the Emperor thought that negociations might be taken up where they were discontinued when the French replied to the King of England's note, by Paget's giving some response to that reply, moderating the King's note; perhaps a truce might give time to settle the question of Boulogne. Paget replied that he had no instructions to moderate the terms of the note, but, on condition of keeping Boulogne, the King would agree to moderating it as the Emperor should think reasonable; he thought that his master would accept a truce, and he would use his influence therein.
	Next day, 21 March, the President and M. D'Eick visited the French ambassadors and informed them that, reflecting upon their last conversation, the Emperor thought the best means to attain peace was to arrange a truce, during which the question of Boulogne might be settled, even though that truce might be utilised by the English for fortifying Boulogne; for in the first place a truce would save further shedding of Christian blood, and, in the second, the French should ask themselves whether there was not very small chance of their capturing Boulogne by arms and great risk in attempting by an invasion of England to force the King to surrender it; they should also reflect that their King may live long and the Dauphin is a man, whereas the King of England is "a prince of short life, and on his death the realm will descend to a child," when Boulogne may be obtained cheaply; a truce would save Ardres, which is in danger from famine and pestilence.
	On the 22nd the President and D'Eick asked the English ambassadors, since the period covered by the agreement differs from that mentioned in the draft, how they would deal with seizures made earlier. They answered, Refer such seizures to arbitration of commissioners. It was pointed out that their document undertook to release the ships fitted out in Zeeland for conveyance of the Spanish soldiers, but did not mention the soldiers. They replied that, as the ships were gone and only 400 soldiers remained, surely the Emperor would not refuse their master so small a thing; besides, a portion of these men, being sent across the Channel, had deserted and been killed in France. Finally, rather than include the soldiers, they decided to leave out the whole clause. They refused to insert even a modification of the clause for obviating future difficulties, saying that their King would not consent formally to the Netherlanders trading with France, although Paget would pledge his word that the King would connive at it. As the English had added to the clause prohibiting conveyance of victuals and munitions to France they consented to a specification of prohibited merchandise. For the joint arbitration they stood out for the 1st of May at Calais; but on hearing the objections to Calais, they agreed to Gravelines, Dunkirk, Bergen, St. Omer or Bourbourg, the choice being left to them.
[ March.]	407. Cardinals Monte and Cervini to Pole.
Poli Epp.. iv. 185.	On Friday, the 13th, they reached this city, where they hope soon to see him. Both have been diligent by the way to learn the movements (li andamenti) of Ludovico delle Armi and of that Count of San Bonifacio, but have got no further light upon them except here from the Cardinal of Trent, Ludovico having been here for two days a little before their arrival. As the Cardinal says that he has written fully of the matter to Pole they will not repeat it. Trent.
	Ital.
22 March.	408. Pole to Cardinals Monte and Cervini.
Poli Epp., iv. 186.	Glad to hear of their arrival at Trent, where they wished for Pole to join them. Has the same desire himself since the Pope has appointed him to share their labors. Thanks them for their thoughtful regard for him on the journey, endeavouring to hear of "gl'andamenti di quel delle Arme &c." The Pope seems determined that he shall leave at all events after the feasts (le feste), which perhaps he may attend in Viterbo. Rome, 22 March 1545.
	Ital.
23 March.	409. Anthony Cave to John Johnson.
R. O.	Tickfford, 23 March 1544.—On Saturday by your brother Richard "I wrote to Sir R. Dormer to have his aide for to cleryd w^t my m'res of London for benivolens, trustyng he hathe so done. Yf he be in London I preye youe speake w^t hym yo^r sellf in this matt^r, eernestlye thoff I bere a more peyn by the helpe of God I wilnot pay w^t them." Gives directions about bills of Mr. Wynchecombe's, and about his wools. "For the King's fees I pray you clear; and be at a point to have them again thoff we bere a more peyn in the prices, but I think the prices shall not be known until Good Friday. Your brother Ottwell must be our solicitor therefor." Trusts he will remember other things both in the writer's former letters and the instructions given to his brother Richard.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: at London. Endd. as answered from London, 25 March 1545.
23 March.	410. Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler to Henry VIII.
Add. MS. 32,656. f. 218. B. M. Hamilton Papers, ii. No. 429.	Sends letters received from the lords Wardens of the East, West and Middle Marches, Thos. Goure and Matthew Kent, grand captain of the Irishmen. Darneton, 23 March 1544. Signed.
	P. 1. Add. Endd.
23 March.	411. The Laird of Crossraguel to Cassillis,
R. O.	I have received your writings, and your matters are laboured to good purpose, so that " it var best ze var at hame gif ze may obtene ye Kinges favour yairto, as I heir say ze may; for yair is mony cummerris now and veray gret trublis nov in zour absens, and mony onfreindis and fewer freindis, for ze ar evill trustit v^t my lord Governour and dywers noblis of ye realme for zour departing aganis command (?) in Ingland." Give credence to bearer. Crosrag'¹ 23 March, by your 1. (signed) "eymme off Crosregwel."
	P.1. Add,
23 March.	412. Deputy and Council of Ireland to the Council.
R. O.	Bearer, Henry Skarrett, has for six or seven years past served in the King's martial affairs as a common soldier, and now at the assault of a castle in Odonell's country, "unjustly detained from him by a son of his," has been maimed and is no longer able to serve. As the King has founded divers almshouses for the relief of impotent people and such as have been lamed and wounded in his service, they beg that his Majesty may be moved to assign him some honest living "within suche almes housse." Kylmaynan, 23 March 36 Henry VIII. Signed by St. Leger, Alen, Dublin, Brabazon, Lutrell, Bathe, Travers and Basnet.
	P.1. Add. Endd.
23 March.	413. Mary Queen of Scots to Paul III.
Royal MS. 18 B. vi.1786. B.M. Epp. Reg. Sc., ii.245.	There are certain pensions upon the revenue of Deir monastery which the new Commendatory seeks to stop, notably one to Michael Pettindrecht, professed there. Begs him to grant Apostolic letters to the said Michael that justice may be done to both parties. Stirling (signed by Arran at Edinburgh), 10 kal. Ap. 1545.
	Lat, copy, p. 1.
23 March.	414. Archbishopric of Armagh.
Brady, Ep. Suce, i. 217.	Note that the pallium was granted to Robt. Vaucop, elect of Armagh, for his metropolitan church of Armagh.
	Lat.
24 March.	415. Sir Thos. Seymour to Shrewsbury.
Shrewsb. MS. A., f. 335. Heralds' College. Lodge, i. 135.	Sends, by the Council's command, one half last of corn powder and one half last of serpentine powder by bearer Christopher Starkey, to be disposed there in the country at his Lordship's discretion. As for news, it is thought that all merchants' goods stayed in Flanders shall shortly be delivered and they restored to their old liberties, and that the Emperor will nowise break with the King. The Diet that was looked for at Woormes is like to take no effect, for the Emperor will not be present. The "Imperialles" of Almayn come not, but require money to defend the Turk's invasion of Hungary; "and they that should pay, being loth to depart with it, saith that he will not invade this year." Westm. palace, 24 March 1545.
	P.S. in his own hand.—Commendations to Sir Ralph Sadeler. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.
24 March.	416. Robert Maxwell to Cassillis.
R. O.	It is shown me that you are lately come from the King to Carlile; and you know that my father is the King's prisoner in the Tower of Londoun. I have sundry times desired to know of my lord of Lenoys, the lord Quhartoun and others there, what should be the King's pleasure for my father's liberty, and now will desire your Lordship, if you know the King's pleasure, to advertise me of it and to counsel me. There is a bruit in England that I should not be obedient to my father nor desire his return, but I assure you that it is untrue and that I will leave nothing undone for his liberty that a son may do for a good father. Drumfres, 24 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.
24 March.	417. Vargas to Covos.
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 33.	The Emperor leaves for Antwerp on the 13th or 14th prox:, and starts for Worms on the 20th. The King of the Romans arrived at Worms on the 14th inst. and the Diet is begun. Cardinals Santa Croce and Monti, commissioners to the Council, have arrived at Trent, but the Cardinal of England refused to accept office for fear of Ludovico delle Arme, who is raising troops in Italy for the King of England. The Pope thereupon arrested Ludovico's father at Bologna and will probably exact much money from him. Brussels, 24 March 1545.
25 March.	418. The Closet.
R. O.	Expenses of the King's closet from Michaelmas to the Annunciation of Our Lady 36 Henry VIII. The laundress, 10s. "Syngynebrede," 2s. Hooks and crachettes, 2s. A Mass book, 7s. Mending the rich vestments, 6s. 8d. "Tookkyn gyrdles," 6d. Flowers, 4s. Total, 32s. 2d. Signed by John Rudd, clerk of the Closet.
	P. 1.
25 March.	419. Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler to the Council.
Add. MS. 32,656, f. 224. B. M. Hamilton Papers, ii. No. 430.	Bearer, Jasper Owen, taken prisoner at the late raid to Melrose, repairs to Court to sue for licence that John Hume, here prisoner, may be exchanged for him, he agreeing with Hume's takers. Commend the suit; for Hume was not one of those taken at the Solempne Mosse, but is a bastard son of Lord Hume's brother with as little (or less) living as the said Jasper. Darneton, 25 March 1545. Signed.
	P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
25 March.	420. Shrewsbury to Petre.
Add. MS. 32,656, f. 226. B. M. Hamilton Papers. ii. No. 431.	The Council lately wrote to him to make secret enquiry how the castles of Barwycke and Warke have been guarded this year past; and his servant the bearer, to whom he committed the matter, can declare it. Sends letters received from the Warden of the Middle Marches. In one of them the Warden desires that the garrisons may be furnished with weapons out of the King's store at Newcastell and Barwycke. Would know the King's pleasure therein. Thinks it not amiss; and that the money coming thereof may furnish new store. The Warden's letters also show what lack there is of spears. Begs Petre to help that these may be supplied. Darneton, 25 March 1545. Signed.
	Pp. 2. Add. Endd.:1544.
Ib.	2. Names of the men (26 horsemen and 9 gunners) lying in Warke castle nightly, all of whom have bed and board there.
	P. 1.
Ib.	3. List of ordnance at Warke castle.
	Pp. 2.
Ib.	4. "The saying of Simon Sage, gunner of the castle of Berwick, as concerning the keeping of the said castle."
	Of the 10 gunners but four (named) can shoot. When the captain is away his son, "a very wilful young man and not all of the wisest," has the rule, and but 18 persons with him. When the captain is at home only 30 persons are resident, many of them "very simple" for such a house. Four persons watch within the castle nightly, and two within the White Wall; and they have two searchers. The constable opens the postern leading to the White Wall night and morning to let Lord Ewre's sheep in and out.
	List of ordnance on the walls and in the house.
	Thomas Gower's deputies for the provisions are, at Berwick, Nic. Lowson, and, at Alemouth, Wm. Wilson, "honest men, as I am informed by my lord Eure and Sir William Malery."
	Pp.2.
25 March.	421. Cassillis to Shrewsbury.
R. O. St. P., v. 420.	I send a writing that is come to me this day from the master of Maxwell, together with my answer. I look for the servant whom I sent into Scotland tomorrow. I think the cause of his long tarrying is his going to the earl of Argyill, who was not at the last convention in Edinbrwgh. Carlesle, 25 March.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: lieutenant in the North parts. Endd.: Therle of Cassells to therle of Shrewesbury, xxv^o Marcii, with a l're from Robert Maxwell and an answer to the same.
25 March.	422. Cassillis to Robert Maxwell.
R. O.	Upon his letters received, this 25 March, has communicated with my lord of Lenox and my lord Warden, who say that they have always answered his questions anent his father. Had no special communing with the King of the release of Maxwell's father from the Tower, but perceived that the King could be content that the peace and marriage took effect, if assured of the same; and thinks that Maxwell and all who pertain to his said father should set forward the King's purpose in that behalf or anything that might please his Grace, not contrary to the weal of that realm. The King has no such malice against my lord your father or any nobleman of our country but he will show gentleness, "geif they and ther frendes wis them frend fwlly in y^t thing y^t may stand w^b ye weil of wr realme and his G. pleswr. And farder I defer to my cwming in the contre, qwhilk I trest sal be swin." Carlel, 25 March.
	Draft in Cassillis's hand, p. 1. Headed: To my trest cwsing ye Maister of Maxwell.
25 March.	423. Sir Thomas Palmer to Henry VIII.
Cal. of Cecil MSS., Pt. i. 123.	Describes the extent of the fortifications at the "Old Man" at Boulogne, and accounts for the apparent slow progress therein. The books that should have been signed for the works at Guisnes by John Burgate, in the place of his brother William, remain still unsigned; and owing to the death of the said John this account causes him much unquietness. Begs to know his Majesty's pleasure in that behalf.—Dated from the Bastillion at the Old Man, the 25th of March.
	Endd.: "Sir Thos. Palmer's letter to Hen. VIII. from the Old Man at Boulogne. 25 Mar. 1544."
	Pp. 2.
	424. Schore to Charles V. (fn. n7)
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 38.	Your Majesty may say to Paget that he was informed that your subjects must have leave to navigate to France and answered that his King could not consent to this but would connive at it, provided they carried no victuals or munitions of war. To this you consented, expecting that he would consent to a general clause that your subjects might frequent the sea without hindrance, no mention being made of France. Paget says he has no authority to agree to this, but you may tell him that as he sent to England the draft we gave him, which contained the general clause, the King's objection to it, which was only as regards France, is now removed, and he cannot refuse that to which he is bound by treaty.
25 March.	425. Paget and Wotton to Henry VIII.
R. O. St P., x. 359.	On the 19th inst., in the morning, came President Scory and Skepperius reporting that they had related to the Emperor what the writers had moved, and brought his answer, viz.:—That, as to the ship, the magistrates of Armewe caused her to be arrested, as usual in case of prizes, but, notwithstanding, she departed and was driven into Sluise, where Mons. du Pratt's son, a young officer who lately succeeded his father there, hearing that other English ships were arrested, arrested her. She had not well done to depart contrary to the first arrest, but she should be set at liberty unless she were the ship that spoiled the Portugallz, to whom the Emperor could not deny justice. The Emperor had sent command to Du Pratt to stay no ships of Henry or his subjects, and probably she was already at liberty. As to whether the Emperor would observe the treaty in future without regard to anything past, the Emperor found that question strange, as the treaty itself was "a thing past," but if it meant whether he would declare against France, he had proved to Hertford and Winchester that he was not bound thereto, but (as he had always declared) he would observe all to wbich the treaty bound him.
	Paget replied that the Emperor was not a competent judge of things done out of his jurisdiction, and, even if he was, it was unreasonable to stay the ship for an act done by the captain, adding that there should be the less contention because "the ship now staid is only the prize the which the Portugalles pretend to have robbed them." As to the other matter, although they considered that the Emperor was bound to do certain things which were not yet done, it was not intended to dispute now whether the treaty was broken, but to ask whether the Emperor would observe it in future. And here Paget rehearsed the words of the treaty, as laid before the Emperor and his Council by Hertford and Winchester, and also the contents of a letter "lately sent hither from my said lords." Scory answered that their opinions differed, and it was expedient that the point should be settled; and, that as to the ship, though it was against common law that Henry's subjects should be answerable to the law here, this country "had prescribed that authority by long custom, against the common law"; but it was only meant that the captain should give caution to stand to it, and if (as Paget said) this was not the ship that spoiled the Portugallz, the matter was ended, and he thought that she was dismissed, for they had written into Zelande to stay no more ships. He then asked if Henry's answer was come to the things lately passed between them. Answered yes, but that they had not yet conferred together thereupon (having received the Council's letters (fn. n8) scant a quarter of an hour before); and desired to know the Emperor's pleasure for its report.
	On Friday, (fn. n9) before dinner, the President and Skepperius came, saying that they were sent to hear Henry's answer. Declared it according to the Council's instructions, requiring, as at the beginning, that the arrest should be discharged because Henry had discharged it (repeating what was agreed upon, what Henry had done and what the Emperor promised), and then proceeding to the affair of the Scots and to the overtures of peace. In the last, as Henry seems to take it that the offers proceeded of Scory himself and not from the Emperor, the writers first said that there was some doubt thereof. Describe how Scory answered first to the last point, affirming earnestly that the offers were made in the Emperor's name, and that, as to the arrest, the writers' answer seemed the same as before, although other matter had been proponed, viz., "the traffic of their subjects and restitution of all that was arrested since the beginning of the war." Replied that to consent to the traffic would prejudice the right, which Henry pretends, to the Emperor's declaration, and that the second point was far fetched, to gratify Jasper Douche and the French Spaniards, but that as Henry would do no wrong to any of the Emperor's subjects, he would consent to a Diet for the ordering of all matters. After a further protest for the traffic, which led to some dispute about the treaty, they returned to the practise for the peace, which, for its importance, the writers opened word for word as in the Council's letters. To that the President and Skipperius answered nothing, but only, making "glad semblant" and repeating the Emperor's desire to travail for Henry's contentation, said that they would refer to the Emperor and Expected a good answer as to the Scots and the peace. Asked, what for the arrest ? Scory shrugged up his shoulders and thought that the Emperor would not like it.
	Yesternight (fn. n10) the Secretary, President and Skepperius brought the Emperor's answer, that he was glad that Henry accepted his offer to travail for peace, and, as its beginning by occasion of the Scots was misliked the Emperor, would take another occasion, viz., the going home of Mons. Morette and one of the hostages. "Why (quoth I) 'shall there be none ambassador here for the French king? ' 'Yes (quoth they) Morette's colleague Monsr. Mesnage.' 'And why goeth one of the hostages home? ' 'Mary (quoth he) to conclude for the departing of the rest, for we grow to a point of that matter; but (quoth he) th'Emperor would know your opinion for the manner of his proceeding, for (quoth he), whereas you said today that the King would in no wise depart from Boulloyn, if they shall answer that in any wise they will have Boulloyn or else they will not treat, our practique is at an end, th'Emperor can go no more forward; again, to enter with th'articles which Mr. Wootton delivered, (fn. n11) they shall say they have answered they are not bounden to perform them; and therefore th'Emperor thinketh (to say unto you his opinion) that, and if the worst should fall, a truce were not ill for the King his good brother, during the which might work somewhat in things, and the King likewise provide the better for the surety of his pieces on this side'." Paget answered that, as for Boulloyn, Henry would not leave it, and trusted that God would give him strength to keep it as He did to win it; as for the articles, the Emperor might, as for himself, see how far he could bring the French king, working as earnestly therein as Henry would work for him in like case; and as for the truce, Paget's opinion was that the Emperor should first travail for a peace, advertising Henry of his proceedings, and then, if he found the French wilful, signify his opinion of a truce. Details further conversation, in which Scory promised that the Emperor would tell the French that he was called upon for the declaration and if they would not conform he must needs declare, and that nothing should be left unsaid (or undone, having regard to the Emperor's own estate), and meanwhile Henry might fortify Boulloyn, for it would be mid July before the enemy could let it. They then rose to depart, for it was 8 o'clock, saying that, as Morette was going shortly, the Emperor wished to broach these matters, and they would return eftsoons to declare what the Emperor said to the rest of the previous conferences.
	On Sunday (fn. n12) President Scory and Skepperius returned with the Emperor's answer, viz., that he could no longer deny his subjects free navigation, who were desiring leave to arm themselves and, if they did, would not "vale a bonet' to your ships.—Here they asked if we would make no other answer to their articles; and we showed the articles sent from thence. On reading these, they missed the article for the traffic, which they insisted on, and at last "it was promised them as your Majesty had appointed by my Lords' letter." They seemed satisfied, making foundation that that article should remain. Paget, however, said they must take his word for it, and refused, indignantly, to put that promise in writing. Passing then from that article they took exception to the word "equippaige," which might be used to exclude everything, whereas the Emperor meant only that his subjects should not carry victuals or munitions. As to their Spanish soldiers they were soon appeased. Then they came to the first article, wherein Henry has "altered the time within the which time the ships arrested should be delivered," naming, as though to avoid Jasper Douche's matter and the Spaniards', the time of the common invasion; and this, lest they might wrest it to the time when they were, with Henry's aid, before Landersey, Paget had put as the time when your two Majesties with your armies entered France. They thought that the day should be expressed and we agreed.
	Continuing the Emperor's answer, they said that the Scots should be despatched away and that the Emperor would travail for the peace as fervently as if it were his own cause. They then came to the Diet, desiring that the day should be the morrow after Low Sunday, (fn. n13) but we thought that it could not be before 1 May; and, as for the place, when we named Calays they said that last Diet was kept on alternate days at Bourbrook and Calays and much time was lost in riding up and down, and now Calays was full of men of war and things were very dear and men dying of the peste, so that it were not amiss to appoint Bourbrook, Dunkerk or Graveling. We promised to learn your Majesty's pleasure herein, and they to learn what personages the Emperor would appoint. And thus we parted without conclusion, they desiring to have the term "equippiage" out and to have Paget's promise in writing, and we standing to the contrary.
	These men are "now on a lofty pynne" and mean to keep amity with France; and, howsoever they dissemble Morret's going to be for discharge of the hostages it is to declare the alternative, which the Emperor has determined to be for Milan with his niece, as the Frenchmen have most desired. Whether he will come to the consummation of this, time will show, but meanwhile he will bind the Frenchmen with hope and the Bishop of Rome with fear, and thereby be the bolder with other men. On Low Sunday (fn. n14) even he departs towards the Diet and Mons. d'Orleans comes to attend him thither. Here is much cracking of the French power by sea and land; however it is said that certain Switzers appointed to go into Scotland refuse that journey unless accompanied by six noblemen of France, apparently as hostages for their wages. It is said that the Bishop of Rome sent to Henry's servant Ludovico Dalarmi for a passport for Pole to go to the Council, and was refused; whereupon the Bishop put Dalarmi's father in prison, and threatens him with death unless he cause his son to come in and make submission. At Antwerp a boy, which left New Haven on Monday last, (fn. n15) reports that the ships which the French king prepares there will not be ready for sea until the last of April, and certain of them will first convey a fleet of 150 sail coming with wine and victuals, from Bourdeaux, for the navy in Normandy; also that 5 or 6 sail of Scots were just arrived at Hable Neuf to go to Bourdeaux. The Palsgrave prepares to war against the King of Denmark, and will be secretly aided by the Emperor.
	Yesterday, before noon, we went to the Queen, who said that, upon the report of the President and Skepperius, the Emperor (to save trouble when they came to him) commanded her to declare that he was content with the omission of the matter of the Spaniards in the articles delivered to the President and Skepperius, but, unless the article for their subjects' traffic was put in writing, the Emperor knew not how to answer his subjects, who were daily complaining and asking leave to arm in their own defence; and this free navigation might be declared in general words not prejudicial either to Henry's claim for the Emperor's declaration against France or to the Emperor's pretence to the contrary, or to the letters of credence which Paget brought. Paget replied that Turcoin declared that if Henry dissolved the arrest in England the like should be done here. Henry had done so, and, when difficulties were still made here, sent Paget to require that the like should be done here; whereupon other overtures were delivered to him in writing and he agreed to advertise Henry of them, saying, meanwhile, that to expressly consent to the traffic would confess that the Emperor was not bound to declare against France, but he would learn whether Henry would consent to wink at it, who had good hope that in the end the Emperor would not fail to declare himself as the treaty required. Now he had Henry's answer and had declared it to the President and Skepperius in articles (the article concerning the Spaniards being left out because they came into England destitute and offered their services, and the enemy had a far greater number of Spaniards in his service, and as to the traffic Henry was content to wink at it) and had no charge to say more than he had declared; but he thought that faith should be given to his sayings and that no general article of free navigation was needed, as that was comprised in the treaty, which no new article could alter. She answered that a new article was required because there had been some innovation and new business since the treaty; and it might be so worded as to prejudice neither itself nor the treaty. She would report all to the Emperor. Paget desired her to consider how long he had been here and get him despatched with a resolute answer one way or another; which she promised.
	Yesterday, about 2 o'clock after dinner, came Scory and Skepperius with charge (as they said) to speak of the Scottish Ambassador and of the overture of peace or truce. The Scot said that the French king informed them that they were comprehended in this peace; and when the President and Skepperius showed him, by the treaty, that that was not so, he seemed amazed and asked them to affirm this before the French ambassadors, but they refused to dispute a thing already concluded. They said that the Emperor would not treat of any accord with the Scots except they first agreed with Henry. The Scot desired that, for the satisfaction of those who sent him, he might kiss the Emperor's hand, but he had not yet done so. As to peace or truce the Emperor travailed therein before Morette's departing, but found the French stiff for Boulloyn, and therefore broached a truce. The French ambassadors answered that they had no commission therein, alleging by the way what incommodity a truce would be to their master, but the Emperor answered all their reasons and they promised to do the part of good ministers. And Scory said that the Emperor had willed his ambassador to move it to the French king, now when declaring the alternative, and therefore wished to know with all diligence Henry's disposition therein and whether to report his proceedings to the ambassador here or to Henry vivâ voce, through his (the Emperor's) there, or whether my lord of Westminster should come fully authorised and instructed therein. Paget, commending the Emperor's behaviour in these matters of the Scots and the peace, went to the matter of the arrest, upon which they said they had no charge, but thought that Paget should write generally that Henry's subjects at sea would treat theirs friendly and should put out the term "equippaige"; for the Emperor was determined to give Paget answer this afternoon, and might otherwise give such an answer "as they would be loth of," to the hindrance of other affairs. Paget however kept to his point. They then asked his opinion what truce was best, and for how long, saying that they thought a simple truce best, and for a year or a year and a half at least, explaining that a simple truce was one in which each prince kept what he had in possession,—Henry Boulloyn and France the pension and arrears. They were then sent for, and departed, praying Paget to put himself ready to be sent for straightway.
	Are perplexed, became the straitness of last commission for the traffic prevents their going further, even though all other practises should be dashed, and yet the Emperor is now so lofty, with the French king hanging upon his sleece, by hope to have what he has so long sought, the Scots "stand now upon their despatch," and what is desired is but general and cannot prejudice Henry more in writing than in words. Henry might "find holes in writing, as other men do," and the word "equippage" cannot hinder or further the matter, but that he may stop anything he pleases; besides he can always say that the writers have exceeded their commission.
	Yesterday after remaining together for three hours in expectation of being sent for, they were, about 6 p.m., informed by the Secretary that the Emperor had been occupied in writing and thought it now too late to speak with them, but would do so today at 10 o'clock, or after dinner at furthest.
	This day about 2 p.m. were sent for to the Emperor; and Paget rehearsed briefly the cause of his coming, and what had passed with the Queen and his Council, who had yesterday appointed them to take the final answer from him today. He said that we then had mistaken the Queen, who had already answered us that he thought there should be a general provision in writing for his subjects' traffic. Paget replied touching the faith that ought to be given to his promise and, after hot words on both sides, said that he had no other commission than he had declared; and he prayed the Emperor to give a final answer, for Tourcoyn was despatched in three days and Henry would not have deferred the meanest servant sent in so reasonable cause as the Emperor had deferred Paget. To the Emperor's suggestion that he should write again to the King, who would certainly make some general clause for traffic, he replied that he would neither molest Henry more therein nor trouble the Emperor, but stand to this answer if he could have no other : if (notwithstanding what Henry had done) his subjects were still kept prisoners and their goods arrested he would provide for them as he might. "'Why' (quoth he), 'you told the President that you would not depart until you knew further of the King's pleasure, and that you would in the mean time, until you had word again, go see Andwerp.' 'So I did' (quoth I) 'meaning that if I had a good answer at your hand in this matter, and also to th'intent that, this matter being well despatched I might certify the King my master of your friendly proceedings in all three points, touching th'arrest, the Scots, and the practise with the Frenchmen. It is now six days that I have required an answer upon my last letters, and seeing your Majesty will give me none other answer but this I must stand to it.'" The Emperor said that, as Henry was loth to come to particularities to save his pretence to the Emperor's declaration, so, he (the Emperor) wished something in generality to save his pretence to the contrary; and he did not desire to have France named, but would speak again with his Council before resolving. Paget begged to know his pleasure tonight (which was promised) saying that it was fourteen days since Henry heard from him (Paget). Doubting that it may not come tonight, they think best to despatch this. Spoke to the Emperor as though he would write no more in this matter and would depart, but his intention was, if he could get no better answer, to write it and tarry still; and now, if the answer be good, he will accept it with good words, and if it be unchanged, will say that he adventures to write it and tarry Henry's final answer. Marvel at the Emperor's insistance upon this matter. He seemed to think the word "equippage" would dash all, and they did not stick much upon it. If the "convenaunt" should be hereafter misliked, foundations enough may be found to swerve from it. He is grieved against the Spaniards, saying that if he would declare them rebels Henry could not by the treaty keep them; and he is specially incensed with Gamboa, engrieving the case of the murder committed by him. After the storms he used very friendly words, but during their heats he could not abide to hear of what Henry had done for him.
	The French king has been dangerously sick again. In the end of Easter week the duke of Alberquerk goes to Spain, through France, and the Emperor into Almayn to the Diet. Bruxelles, 25 March 1545. Signed.
	P.S. in Paget's hand.—Was making up this letter when the President and Skipperius came to his lodging with the Emperor's final resolution, which (after long repetitions and debate) proved to be the same as the Emperor made. Encloses the article which they have devised and which seems so general that it may serve Henry's purpose as well as the Emperor's, and this is also the opinion of Henry's ambassadors; but they dare not put it in writing until they know his Majesty's pleasure.
	Pp. 25. One passage in cipher. Add, Endd.: 1544.
R. O.	2. Contemporary decipher of the ciphered portion of the above. Pp. 2.
25 March.	426. Paget to Petre.
R. O.	By my letters to the King you will perceive what to expect from these men. We have dealt with them hotly, coldly, temperately; and their deeds all men see and speak of. "Dissimulation, vanity, flattery and unshamefastness reign most here, and with the same must they be rencountered." Is grieved, but must wink at it for the time. Of the Frenchmen nothing is to be looked for yet, such a bait being laid for thum here. Intends tomorrow to tell the Emperor such a tale as peradventure was never told him, and yet so recerently as not to seem "to snap at him." Would be glad to know the King's pleasure for his abode here, and wishes that he had never come. The merchants "hare shifted for themselves, as they tell me. Chapuus playeth the knave in his letters hither. I have seen of them." I have here neither men, money, horse nor apparel to tarry withal. Bruxelles, 24 March, 10 p.m., 1544.
	P.S.—I enclose two letters to the King, viz. from the Bastard of Gelders (to which I desire answer by next post) and from the bp. of Liege in his old suit for money lent for payment of the lansknechts. Thanks for your letters received this day by Nicholas the courier. "Our Lord save him which in this world, next God, is the causer of my comfort, of my joy and of all felicity." If his Majesty will have me tarry longer, you must send me more money, for I made my warrant but until Easter and for 40s. the day, "which his Majesty said was the old diet of a baron." It was so when all things were cheaper, but now they have 4 mks., and so had some knights, as Mr. Knyvet and Mr. Bryan. The saying is that the King's secretary is always fellow to a baron, but for so small a matter as this I would not trouble his Majesty with a larger diet,—only, if not revoked, for more money; wherein he need not "be troubled with signing, but my lords may ease it by their warrant." Pray help us to an answer to our letters. 25 March 1545.
	P.P.S.—The captain of the Scottish prize sent one of his company (fn. n16) for money to pay her charges since "her lying there" and providing a new mast and anchors. Delivered him 20 angels and encloses his bill. Thanks for soliciting my lord Deputy's suit for the herring. Hopes that Petre advised him "to beware another time to promise so large thongs of an others (sic) man (sic) leather." Is sorry to hear that my lord Chancellor is sick and glad that my lord Great Master is amended. "I assure you, his Majesty hath two notable good servants of them, men of wit, of pain and of a marvellous indifferency and honesty, as you partly know, and I know more."
	Hol. (except the second P.S.), pp. 3. Partly in cipher. Add. Endd.
R. O.	2. Contemporary decipher of the ciphered portion of the above.
	P. 1.
25 March.	427. Carne to Petre.
R. O.	Thanks for his letters, of the 20th, received this morning. By Mr. Secretary's letters he will perceive affairs and occurrents. This morning came news that the King of Romans arrived on Saturday last (fn. n17) at Wormes, where the Diet is kept, but the Electors are not yet arrived. The Count of Overempden's wife, a base daughter of the Emperor Maximilian, is here yet, suing for aid to recover Empden from the sect that expelled the Count. The Emperor refuses aid because the Count always favoured the said sect until they so increased as to be able to drive him thence and take his town, which they "marvellously fortify"; as also those who invaded Wresell in Juliers fortify it, but the countie de Buyre has charge to amass footmen to recover it. Bruxells, 25 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
25 March.	428. William Damesell to Paget.
R. O.	Spoke today with the Frenchman of whom I showed you at Bruxels, who sent his letter to me there for Mr. Vaughanne, and who opened to us the enterprise of the three Frenchmen in England, two of whom, John Bodone and John Yong, are taken in England and the third returned hither. He showed me that, 11 days past, a kinsman of Boudone's, called Nic. Bodonne, 16 years old (described) departed into England to them with letters. The captain that went with John Bodonne returned hither 15 days past and has since received packets of letters out of France and answered them by sundry posts. He names himself Mons^r- Jaques. He has had secret talk with mariners here about the havens of England, and has taken 8 or 4 Easterling sea captains here to serve the French king; and this day is gone towards France. A French gentleman who has been long here, banished for killing a gentleman, and has served the Emperor three or four years, to acquire his King's favour, intends to buy in Zeland a small pynke, wherein he will, with a dozen mariners, go into England (as if to serve the King), in company with the hoys laden with gunpowder, among which he will at sea "cast certain firework to destroy the ships." This gentleman abides mostly at Bruxels, where he now is.
	Leaves it to Paget to judge whether the above is true or feigned. 25 March 1544.
	P.S.—I desire you, if it seem good and the time serves, to demand another passport, before your departure, for more powder.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add.: ambassador with the Emperor. Emdd.: 1544.
25 March.	429. Arran to Christian III.
Royal MS. 18 B. vi. 177b. b. m. Epp. Beg. Sc., ii. 240.	About 10 March received Christian's letters dated Octonia, 24 Oct., signifying an outrage at the Norwegian port of Treschiort by Scots who had there seized four ships belonging to Emden in East Friesland (owners Duke Frese, Rolloff Staby, Herman de Geesten and Wyngendort de Jemmingen). Greatly regrets this, especially as he hears that it was done by Scots, whose interest it is to prevent injuries to the Danes; but neither Christian's letters nor the messenger give the names of the pirates. As soon as the necessary information is sent justice shall be done. Edinburgh, 8 kal. Ap. 1544.
	Lat., copy, pp. 2.
25 March.	430. Prince Philip to Charles V.
	* * * *
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 35.	P.S. (to a long letter).—From Guipuscoa I learn that besides the ship from the Indies captured by the English, as reported by the Council of the Indies, they have plundered a vessel of St. Sebastian (report herewith). Valladolid, 25 March 1645.
	^*^ A modern transcript is in B.M., Add. MS. 28,594, f. 78. Spanish, pp. 50.
25 March.	431. Covos to Granvelle.
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 34.	Trusts that the Emperor's decision as to the alternative marriage will be promptly carried through and peace firmly established, as Spain is very exhausted by the war. The Duke of Alba seems willing to serve the Emperor abroad rather than here. Granvelle's patent of knighthood is despatched. Congratulates him upon the Pope's intentions towards the bp. of Arras. Valladolid, 25 March 1545.
	^*^ A modern transcript is in B.M., Add. MS. 28,594, f. 74. Spanish, pp. 7.