Henry VIII: August 1545, 1-5

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 20 Part 2, August-December 1545. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1907.

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'Henry VIII: August 1545, 1-5', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 20 Part 2, August-December 1545, (London, 1907) pp. 1-24. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol20/no2/pp1-24 [accessed 18 March 2024]

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August 1545, 1-5

1545.
1 Aug.
1. Sir Edward North to Scudamore and Others.
Add. MS.
11,041, f. 75.
B. M.
The King having granted to Anthony Guidot, merchant Florentine, 500 fodder of lead, with licence to export it free of custom, as appears by warrant dated Westm., 24 Feb. 36 Hen. VIII, requires them immediately to deliver to Guidot or his factors 200 fodder of the said lead out of that in their charge, without taking any payment. London, 1 Aug. 37 Hen. VIII. Signed.
P. 1. Add: "To Mr. Skidmour and to the mayor, customer and comptroller of the King's town and port of Bristowe, and to all other his Highness' officers having charge and custody of his Grace's lead there, and to every of them."
1 Aug. 2. Suffolk to Paget.
R. O.
St. P., i. 796.
Perceives by his letter, received this afternoon between 2 and 3, that the King marvels at the want of tools. Shovels and spades were had from London, but no mattocks, without which these works cannot be done in this ground. Have put mattocks "to making" in Winchester, Southampton and other places and shall have a good number by Monday, trusting soon to put this town in order to "defend" the enemies.
Those who have undertaken to recover the Mary Rose desire the necessaries mentioned in the enclosed schedule.
Suffolk and the lord Admiral marvel to hear nothing of the Western men, save that 60 odd mariners are come from Poole. When the Western ships come the lord Admiral will take the meetest of them and furnish the ships here with men and ordnance from the rest, and then will soon be ready to set forward. This day the lord Admiral views all the men in the ships, intending to land those that are sick and receive whole men from us here. Of the enemies has no news but what Paget sent from Court this morning, save that this morning the lord Admiral sent Fletcher to say that a boat of Rye sent forth to spy, had been chased by two galleys yesterday afternoon and thought the Frenchmen were making for Bulloyn. Trusts that ere the lord Admiral's departure the chain shall be laid over the haven with lighters. Portesmouth, 1 Aug. 1545. Signed.
P.S.—Where you appointed to send 4,000l., pray send 5,000l.; for almost 2,000l. is owing here.
Pp. 5. Add. Endd.
R. O.
St. P., i. 796.
2. "A remembrance of things necessary for the recovery with the help of God of Mary Roose."
"First, two of the greatest hulks that may be gotten, more the hulk that rideth within the haven," 4 of "the greatest hoys within the haven," 5 of the "greatest cables that may be had," etc., including 30 Venetian mariners and one Venetian carpenter. "Item, Symond patrone and master in the foyst doth agree that all things must be had for the purpose aforesaid."
P. 1.
1 Aug. 3. Suffolk to Paget.
R. O.
St. P., i. 798.
Since he wrote, Mr. Wynter has come to him from my lord Admiral "a sea board," with a letter (herewith) explaining the Western men's tarrying, &c. Mr. Wynter informed him that Lokyer, of Bristow, a very good captain, one of the Guard, is dead. Francis Finglos, captain of the Sampson, is departed hence sore sick, and Sir Wm. Woodhouse is very sick. Trusts that by Monday or Tuesday the Mary Rose shall be weighed up and saved. Two hulks, cables, "pulleces," &c, are ready for the weighing of her. Portesmouth, 1 Aug. 1545. Signed.
P.S.—If men fall so sick in our fleet we must take up fresh men hereabouts, both mariners and soldiers.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
1 Aug. 4. Lisle to the Council.
R. O. By their letters of 27 July they summon Anthony Huse, president of the principal court of the Admiralty, to appear before them, 4 Aug., to "answer to a contempt" in not ordering delivery of a ship laden with woad taken by a servant of Lisle's. Perceives by their former orders that the said prize should be determinable in the Court of the Admiralty; and Lisle, being further instructed in that matter than they (as the King's officer of that Court), advised Huse by letter not to deliver the said prize until Lisle had declared the matter to the King. Requests that he may enjoy the liberties of his office as his predecessors did. Scribbled in the Harry Grace a Dieu, 1 Aug. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1545.
1 Aug. 5. Lisle to Suffolk.
R. O.
St. P., i. 798.
This evening, late, arrived "within this army two small barks of Mydellbourghe within the haven of Plumouth, sent by my lord Privy Seal." They know of no other ships coming from those parts. Their burthens are 38 and 40 tons, and they were commanded to depart in such haste that they could not victual and are not now victualled for four days. At leaving Plumouth haven on Wednesday morning last they heard that four barks of Plumouth had arrived at Falmouth with 10 or 12 French prizes. Asked "how they durst go forth, and the King's Majesty's proclamation to the contrary," they answered that there they heard of no such proclamation. If the rest come thus victualled they will do small service, considering the scarcity of victual here. This day upon the new musters it appears "that there is a great disease fallen amongst the soldiers and mariners almost in every ship," viz., "swelling in their heads and faces and in their legs, and divers of them with the bloody flux." Will tomorrow certify what men are fallen sick within these 3 or 4 days. Will wait upon him after making a survey of every ship for victuals. I fear that the fleet out of the West will not be what the King expects and that tarrying for them will consume our victuals. Scribbled in the Harry, 1 Aug.
Hol., pp. 3. Add.: lieutenant of Southampton.
1 Aug. 6. Russell to the Mayor of Dartmouth.
R. O. Understanding that many adventurers, appointed for Portesmouthe by the King's command, being given rather to spoil and robbery than otherwise to serve, draw back, charges him to command all such to repair to Portesmouthe. Mariners remaining in the town and not going in any of the said ships are to be put ready to go by land to Portesmouthe at an hour's warning; and the number of them signified to Russell with all possible haste, together with the number of prizes brought into that port within this month. All ships going forth and all adventurers that hereafter shall come to that port are to be charged to repair to Portesmouthe with diligence, and, if unwilling, committed to ward and their ships set forward. Excetour, 1 Aug. Signature copied: John Russell.
Copy, 1. Mutilated. Subscribed: "To the maiour of Dartmouthe and in lyke wise to all the portes."
1 Aug. 7. Hertford, Tunstall and Sadler to Paget.
R. O. Send letters addressed to Hertford containing Border news to be declared to the King. Look hourly for good news of the success at Bulloigne, whereof sundry tales go here, and of the French fleet, of which they can hear nothing although the Scots continually expect a landing on this coast. Trust that if they come they shall be so welcomed as to have no cause to boast. There was a bruit in Scotland that the King's navy and French fleet had met and the English were put to the worst, but the writers, hearing out of the South that the French were repulsed from the Isle of Wight with loss of the general of their galleys (fn. n1) and 100 of his men, and also of certain ships and galleys sunk at sea, Hertford caused the Wardens to bruit it in Scotland, as appears by lord Wharton's letters. Newcastell, 1 Aug. 1545. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
1 Aug. 8. The Council of Boulogne to the Council.
R. O.
St. P., x. 547.
Lord Ponynges received this day the Council's letter of the 27th ult declaring how the King has appointed 5,000 footmen to be assembled for the levying of the French king's army here. Ponynges has just received intelligence that the rerebande of France was on the 26th ult. besides Abevyle marching hither to the number of 9,000 or 10,000 footmen. On Tuesday last (fn. n2) 3,000 horsemen of the Dolphin, Mom. de La Roche and others were at Amyens, and inarched hitherwards on Wednesday, and Mons. de Vandosme's carriages were at Montrieul. Their whole sea army rides before this haven with 15,000 men ready to land and some already landed, so that the writers cannot see how 5,000 men can help to levy the siege, albeit had they come in time it might have been done. Think that the enemies mean to annoy these pieces by famine, having stopped the haven by making fortresses on the other side and intending to stop the way from Calais. Unless they are now repulsed and their fortresses taken, which cannot be done without an army, these pieces cannot be revictualled. Will withstand the enemies to the last day that any man may possibly endure. Bulloigne, 1 Aug. 1545. Signed: Thomas Ponynges: John Bryggys: Rauff Ellerkar: Hugh Poulet: Rychard Caundysshe: John Jenyns: Thom's Palmer.
Pp. 2. Mainly in cipher. Add. Endd.
R. O. 2. Contemporary decipher of the above.
Pp. 2. Headed by Paget: Copy of the Counsails l're at Bulloyn.
1 Aug. 9. Vaughan to Paget.
R. O. Lately wrote of a bargain he made with an Almayn merchant (fn. n3) here for the emprunture of 40,000 cr. of 6s., the King's answer to be given by 9 Aug., and meanwhile Vaughan might refuse the bargain by paying the merchant 200 cr. of gold. If the King accept it Vaughan must give the bonds of John Carolo, of Baltazar Gwynygy and John Balbany and of Francesco Micaeli and Jeronimo Arnolfini, each for one third of the 40,000 cr. On delivery of the bills of credence, Vaughan will receive the money, repayable in August 1546. Certain captains have this day asked for money. Thinks they were Edell Wollff's men. They said that if not paid, "they would protest that they were and had been ready a great while to serve and could have no money. They say they were warned by your letters to make themselves ready, and that money should be sent by commissioners to their musters; and after, they say, ye wrote again they should stay." Hears for certain that the report of the Emperor's restoring the Duke of Brunswike is untrue. Is told that the Emperor goes to Metys, and will meet the French king thereabouts. Andwerp, 1 Aug.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. (to be forwarded by lord Cobham). Endd.: 1545.
1 Aug. 10. City of Lubeck to Henry VIII.
R. O. By his ambassador John Dymmock they learn his continued good will to them; and they rejoice that the little they did for Theodoricus Richmondus was acceptable. The ambassador will declare the condition of their city and their mind towards him. Lubecgk, kal. Aug. 1545. Subscribed: Consules et Senatores Civitatis Lubecae.
Lat. Large parchment. Seal lost. Add. Endd.
R. O. 2. "Quæ serenissimo Regis Angliæ legato Joanni Dymmocko inclytus Lubecensium Senatus respondent."
The senate are grieved at the wars between the King and the French king, and hope that peace will ensue before next year. Although they would gladly serve him, almost all their ships are away engaged in trade, and they have recently lost many by the war between the Emperor and the king of Denmark and otherwise; so they hope that the King will excuse them. Have issued proclamations against carrying arms or munitions to the King's enemies, and against sailing into Scotland. Sealed, kal. Aug. 1545.
Latin. Hol., pp. 3. Sealed. Endd.: Thaunswer made by them of Lubek to Dymok, calendis Augusti 1545.
1 Aug. 11. Baron of Heideck to Henry VIII.
R. O. Supposes that Henry knows, from his embassy, all that has passed in the Diet hitherto. The writer's master, Palsgrave Frederic, Elector, is with the Emperor, earnestly seeking to obtain a lasting peace between the Protestant states and the Popish faction. Fears that, unless permanent, it would be to the detriment of the Empire (Romisch Reich). There is news that the Turk lies with a great force not far from "der Cron Polen," to take his advantage in case the five years' truce spoken of between [him and] the Emperor and the King does not go forward. Fears that such truces are to the detriment of Christendom, as giving the Turk opportunity to establish himself in Hungary. A grudge will ensue between the Emperor and the French king over the guardianship of the son of the deceased Duke of Lorraine, which the French king claims because of the Duke's land in France. Has heard that the Scots have slain some of Henry's people, but does not believe it. If, however, Henry wants German soldiers, the writer, who is himself old, knows an honest prince of an electoral house who would serve him with 1,000, 1,500 or 2,000 horse. Perceived at the Diet at Spires that Henry meant to take up soldiers. It is said that the Emperor will marry his daughter to the Duke of Orleans, but the writer can hardly believe it. A new Diet will shortly be summoned by the Emperor at Normberg or Ragennsburg, who will also hold a colloquy between the Protestants and the Papists. God grant that the devilish practices of the Papists may be hindered.
"Aller genedigister Konig, dweil ich die vilfeltigen genaden so eur Mt. mir genedigist bewisen unntterthenigist gern verdienen unnd dannckbar sein wollt, hab ich in meiner ainfalt, dweill die praticken bey den hohen heubttern etwas geschwindt und wanncklpar sindt, ob es guet war das eur Ko. Mt. mit den Protestierennden stenden, die warlich in ainem ansehen vermogen und zum krieg geschickt sindt, ein verstanndt gemacht hettenn, mocht eur Mt. yczo auchs in konnflig zeitt aus vil hochbeweglich ursachenn, davon nit zu schreibenn oder der federn zubevelhen ist, zu guettem und wolfhart reichenn und gedeihen. Bit e. Mt. das mein bedennckhenn nit anderer gestallt dan unntterthenigister getreuer und guetter meynung allengenedigist zuverstenn."
The young king of Poland's wife is dead without leaving children.
Apologises for writing in German, as he has no Latin scribe with him. Neustat an der Waltnab, 1 Aug. 1545. Signed: Jorg freiher zü Heideck.
German, pp. 4. Add. Endd.: Baron Hadecke.
2 Aug. 12. The Council at London to the Council.
R. O. Anthony Hussey and Watson being called, upon the receipt of your last letters for the speedy sending forth of the five hulks, answered that before Tuesday (fn. n4) they cannot be discharged and ready to set forth as we intend. The masters, likewise called to be ready against that day, answer that without an English or Flemish pilot they cannot pass to Portesmouthe, wherein "we think some danger," and will not be persuaded, contrary to their first resolution, ("keeping ourselves without the compass of assurance"), to take their voyage or suffer their ordnance to be conveyed by land. They say that when they promised to serve they "knew not to pass through the danger of the enemy," with whom, although the "head masters" will, as the aldermen report, use silence, to serve the King's purpose, "their mariners and slaves, without order or honesty," cannot be stayed from talking. We advised them, by the mouth of the said aldermen, to keep their intent secret; but they answered that although, observing our first charge, they have done so, the mariners will before they set out know to what parts they sail. Before they knew of the enemy's lying where they do we "found them with a request of assurance"; and now, "fearing, as they say, the open mouth of their mariners and slaves," and to be searched and stayed by the French, they plainly refuse to serve unless they "may be furnished in all points warlike and therewith have assurance." And neither the King's "princely consideration" nor any other persuasion can move them.
We daily receive letters out of divers shires for coat and conduct of soldiers to arrive before 6 Aug. for transport hence to Caleys. We beg to know, considering the enemy in their way, whether to embark and convey them "to the landes ende (fn. n5), where they maye awaite a tyme of suerty and shalbe lefte to the Kinges Highness chardge," or to stay them with their captains about London. Lincoln place, 2 Aug., "betwixt the hours of v. and vi., ao xxxvijmo r.r. H. viijvi." Signed: John Bakere: Robert Sowthwell: Ric. Southwell: Edward North.
Pp. 2. Add.: To, &c., the lords of the Privy Council. Endd.: The Counsayl at London to the Counsa[yl].
2 Aug. 13. Suffolk, Lisle and St. John to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., i. 799.
Since the King's departure from Portesmouth many mariners and soldiers have fallen sick, apparently because of "the great heat and the corruption of their victual by reason of the disorder in the provision and strait and warm lying in the ships." Will replace the sick men, and victual with good victual for 14 days by Saturday next (fn. n6); and make the decayed victual good if possible. This will leave no provision for the garrisons in Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight and the "renewing" of the fleet after the said 14 days, unless the provisions at Rye, Dover and the Thames may come hither, to stay the coming of which seems to be the only reason of the French fleet's lying from Rye to Bulloyn. By the time the fleet is new victualled for 14 days the Arrogasye and other ships will be ready and the West Country ships arrived. The works are so forward that the town and port shall be well kept from the enemies. The fleet, when victualled, will await his command either to stay or to set forth to free the passage and victual. Portesmouth, 2 Aug. 1545. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.
2 Aug. 14. Suffolk to Paget.
R. O. Thinks it expedient to write once a day to him, to signify to the King how things go forward here. Can hear no more of the enemies than he saw in a letter from Sir John Gage to the Council, which he opened this morning. All is ready for the weighing of the Mary Rose tomorrow. As much diligence as possible is made with the fortifications here. Portesmouth, 2 Aug. 1545. Signed.
P. 1. Endd.: My lord of Suff. to Mr. Seer., Mr. Paget.
2 Aug. 15. Suffolk to Paget.
R. O. The letter from the Council concerning the stay of the four Frenchmen who had passport by the King's command arrived after the same Frenchmen and Spaniards had left; but my lord Admiral, "being a shipboard, stayed them upon consideration that they had long tarried in Portesmouth" and, having viewed both fleet and fortifications should not report to the French fleet in passing into Flanders, but wait till the King's fleet "were abroad and a sea board." Begs to know whether they shall tarry or be delivered. Portesmouth, 2 Aug. 1545. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
2 Aug. 16. Lisle to Paget.
R. O.
St. P., i. 800.
By Mr. Constable, received Paget's letter showing that Constable is to be placed in one of the fair hulks when they come from London; and, by his letter delivered today to the Great Master, perceives that, because of the disease of Sir Wm. Wodhous, Englos, and other captains who have lately fallen sick, the King will have other gentlemen, as well attending in Court as others, named as meet for the vacant places. In this army knows none meet to be named captains save young Mr. Carye and Mr. Constable. Will tomorrow send a book of the ships now ready to serve, with the captains' names and how many ships lack captains, that the King may determine his pleasure. Have much ado with the Mary Rose The worst is that they must forbear and empty two of their greatest hulks during the business. Where Paget writes that, in crossing Porche Downe yesterday, the King found fault with the lying of the ships, and wished that they should repair to the strait on this side Saynct Elyns Point; requires him to signify to the King that all lie as they anchored by his Majesty's command the day his Highness departed, save that the Great Venezian is brought nearer the haven to take in ballast, and the two hulks Jesus and Sampson are brought to the Mary Rose to weigh her up. Scribbled at Portchemouth, 2 Aug.
Hol., pp 3. Add Endd.: 1545.
[2 Aug.] 17. Ships of Devonshire and Cornwall.
R. O. List of seaports in Devon and Cornwall with the names and tonnage of the ships they furnish and dates (23 July or 2 Aug.) at which these ships left for Portesmouth or (3 to 9 Aug.) will be ready to depart thither, and a few other notes about them. The places are Truro (3 ships), Penshance (1), Fowye (1), Dartmouth (5, not named), Lowe (1), Saltasshe (2 not named, including "The lord Privy Seal's bark, well appointed," which went towards Portesmouth on 23 July), Mylbroke (2), Plymouth (8, not named, being "all the barks there which were adventurers this year"), Oppesham (2, not named), Mountesbaye (1).
Pp 2.
2 Aug. 18. Thalassius to Wotton.
R. O. Dr. Bruno and he had appointed to meet Wotton at supper today; but, having been busy with the ambassadors of France for three days and still occupied with them today, they will come to dinner tomorrow. Last year all the States of the Empire gave the Emperor a subsidy against the French, and when peace was made the King of France, mindful of the injury, appointed that in the four annual fairs at Lyons the Germans (except the Swiss, who did not meddle in the war) should pay a tribute of 1½ fl. Per cent., whereas before they were free throughout France. The Imperial cities prayed the French ambassadors that, under the condition in the treaty of peace, for the preservation of the privileges of the Empire in France, the King would repeal that tribute; and the ambassadors have promised to write to their King therein. Yesterday evening the agents (oratores) of the King of the Romans asked the States for half, or else the third part, of the money which the King, who was about to depart, wished to be paid. They refused to pay anything, either to Emperor or King, until the recess of Spires is fulfilled; whence it is clear what confusion will be in future Diets of the Empire. There will be disputes about religion, there will be business with the Emperor about various things, nothing will be left untouched; and the writer will have an occasion of serving England which he will not let slip, for he is in a place and office where it will not be difficult to assist the King. If Wotton could get him a pension of only 10l. it would both bind him to the King and enable him to make friends and investigate matters. Even without it England shall know that he is faithful to her. Thanks for the gift sent to him. From my inn, 2 Aug. 1545, at Worms. Signed: Jacobus Gislenus Thalassius, republiæ Meten' syndicus.
Lat. Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
2 Aug. 19. Charles V. to Prince Philip.
Spanish
Calendar,
viii., No. 112.
Cardinal Farnese came hither really to promise the goodwill of the Pope and his family, and brought a bill of exchange for 100,000 cr. Being shown the dangerous condition of religion throughout Christendom he returned to Rome to lay it before his Holiness, who, he afterwards wrote, promised aid in money and bulls for the half fruits of ecclesiastical revenues and for sale of monastic property in Spain. Despatched Dandolo, ostensibly to visit the Duchess of Camarino, who is pregnant, but really to learn the exact amount of assistance to be expected from His Holiness. Awaits his return anxiously. Arrangements made with regard to the Protestants and the Council of Trent, the Netherlands and the Turk in anticipation of his going to Spain. Proceedings of the French of late will cause postponement of the alternative marriage, wherein the Emperor would use the advice of the Duke of Alba, who is to be sent hither at once. Brief history of the King of England's demand for assistance in war against France. Keeps urging the French and English to come to some settlement, and has given out that he hastens to close this Diet and return to Flanders to move in the interests of peace. Guasto is here, and the Emperor is considering how to pay the Spanish troops in Lombardy and those in Hungary, to stop the harm they are doing. Disorder has become rife in Milan. Barbarossa and Algiers.
Has demanded redress for the seizure of ships by the French and English and damage on the coast by the French galleys. The King of France promises prompt justice. The English say that they will restore everything if the like is done in Spain. Has pressed them herein very energetically. This is not a time to adopt reprisals and give letters of marque, as the English and French have strong forces at sea and might be prompted to settle their own differences. Philip shall therefore, without indicating that he is so instructed, make an account of the captures by the French and damage done by their galleys, and then gently sequestrate French property to a like value, until the Emperor's subjects are indemnified. It is best, however, not to embargo any more property of the English until we see how they act. The French have published a decree that all ships carrying victuals or munitions for the English are legal prizes. This would amount to a prohibition of our trade with England, which the treaty of peace permits; but when the French see their property in Spain sequestrated they will moderate their tone. Upon Philip's information that ships were preparing in Brittany to sail for Peru the French ambassadors were warned that it must be remedied, and the Imperial ambassador instructed to complain to the King. Worms, 2 Aug. 1545.
*** A modern transcript is in B. M., Add. MS. 28,594 f. 161. Sp., pp. 13.
Ib. No 116. 2. A statement, sent by Idiaquez [to Spain], touching the mission of Cardinal Farnese, the Pope's approval of strong measures against the Protestants, the despatch of Dandolo and the Pope's reply, &c. Later in date than the preceding, having been made after Dandolo's return.
*** A modern transcript is in B. M., Add. MS. 28,594 f. 195. Sp., pp. 8,
2 Aug. 20. Charles V. to Covos.
Spanish
Calendar,
viii, No. 111.
With regard to the ships captured by English and French, refers to his letter to the Prince. The English Ambassador here admits that the English captain (fn. n7) who took the San Salvador, from Santo Domingo, master Francesco Gallego, took the goods out of her to make up compensation for a ship taken from him by the Emperor's subjects and offered the master a certificate of the amount; but the master declined it, saying that such a certificate would prove that he brought the treasure on board without registering it, and he would incur heavy punishment. Has, therefore, written to his ambassador in England, in case of restitution of the ship and cargo, to embargo them as belonging to the Emperor; and Covos shall instruct the Council of the Indies to proceed against the culprits. Money matters. Illness of Count Cifuentes and choice of a successor in the event of his death. The emeralds and precious stones from Cartagena, and the pearls, came just in time to provide payment for Prince Doria and other matters. Worms, 2 Aug. 1545.
***A modern transcript is in B.M., Add. MS. 28,594 f. 158. Sp., pp. 5.
2 Aug. 21. News Current in the Emperor's Court.
Spanish
Calendar,
viii, No. 110.
[Written from Worms by Pedro Huseca to Gonzalo Perez at various dates from about 19 June to 2 Aug., and ranging over many subjects; but the reports are apparently public rumors and very inaccurate.]
*** A modern transcript is in B.M., Add. MS. 28,594 f. 130. Sp. pp. 9.
2 Aug. 22. Harvel to Henry VIII.
R. O. Wrote on 26 July. A rumor has since been spread that the French galleys had taken about 40 of your ships, which by letters from Flanders and the Emperor's court is known to be false. Now it is reported that your navy is superior on the seas. Of proceedings by the Emperor and the Bishop (fn. n8) against the Protestants it is only said that the Emperor procures to spend the Bishop's money, "alleging that it were too odious in Germany to see the Bishop's banner spread," but the Bishop will not put his money at the Emperor's liberty. The practices for Parma and Plaisance go forward, to the great regret of the clergy. The Turks are said to be going to "obsesse" Lubiana, so that the truce between the Emperor and Turk is despaired of. Men think that the Emperor will, therefore, "practise to join new again with your majesty." This Signory is also minded to join with you. Venice, 2 Aug. 1545.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
3 Aug. 23. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A. P. C., 224.
Meetings at Stanstede, 1 and 2 Aug. Present: Essex, Master of the Horse, Wingfield, Paget, [Petre?]. No business recorded.
Meeting at Cowdrey, 3 Aug. Present: the same. Business:—Placard signed for Mr. Champernowne to take 3 post horses between Cowdrey and Exeter.
3 Aug. 24. Suffolk, St. John and Sir Richard Lee to Paget.
R. O. Perceive that, for answer to their last letter, the King has willed Paget to write and ask when Portesmouth will be so fortified as to be tenable in the absence of the fleet. Considering the fortifications with Sir Richard Lee, they think that by Monday next (fn. n9) the town will be "sufficiently forced to defend the enemies" (with the aid of the 2,000 men appointed from the country at first warning, and after that the power of the shires) "although the works shall not be fully finished." Touching the fleet my lord Admiral has written to you. Wrote before that the fleet should be victualled for 14 days at its setting forth, if that be within 8 days. I, the lord Chamberlain, trust to find victuals for the fleet for other 14 days, "and both the garrisons served (except biscuit and beer)." I am doing my utmost therein and will know certainly by Saturday next, (fn. n10) whether I can serve the other fourteen days without anything from Rye or Dover. If, as Mr. Comptroller writes, the French fleet are not in sight between Rye and Boulloyn, the provisions at Rye and Dover and in the Thames will shortly be at Portesmouth.
Where Paget writes to Suffolk for "better intelligence" of the Frenchmen mentioned in his former letters; they are the four Frenchmen whose ransom was given to Lartique, who were in the Spaniards' ship and afterwards had passport to depart signed by the Council. Portesmouth, 3 Aug. 1545. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.: My 1. of Suff., my lord Admyral and Chamberlayn to Mr. Seer. Mr. Paget, iiio Aug. 1545.
3 Aug. 25. Suffolk to Paget.
R. O. Having received his letter, with sundry others in a packet, answers that as soon as the Lord Admiral comes ashore they will take order for the three galleys. As to Worcestershire men, gave Serjeant Knottiswoorth, yesternight, a letter to the sheriff and commissioners not to stir the people, "seeing they be returned to their dwellings," for the present. Has perused all the rest and returns them by bearer. Portesmouth, 3 Aug. 1545. Signed.
P.S.—If you think good "you may more fully answer Woorcestreshyr letter, but I have written to them as is prescribed."
P. 1. Add. Endd.
3 Aug. 26. Suffolk and Lisle to Paget.
R. O. Concerning the enterprise mentioned in your last letter, for sending some ships to lie between the galleys that keep about Seefoorde and the rest of their strength; my lord Admiral and other expert men of the Admiralty think it not expedient to divide the King's fleet, for it is to be thought that the said galleys have intelligence once a day at least with the rest, and the ships sent would be in great danger if becalmed. The wind is now west north west, so that ships sent from here could not fetch this place again; and if the galleys escry a number that they cannot resist they will dally with them, keeping out of danger, and meanwhile our ships may be trapped by the French fleet. My lord Admiral with the fleet will soon be ready. John Carter, master of the King's barge, with 44 of his Highness's watermen, is just come hither. Pray learn where the King will have them bestowed. My lord Admiral thinks that they should be appointed to the Mistress. Of the Western fleet, three small shallops, none over 40 tons, are come; and yesternight Wyndham came hither with my lord Privy Seal's own bark of 50 tons and another of 25 tons. Portesmouth, 3 Aug. 1545. Signed.
P.S.—"And none of these Western men be victualled saving Wyndham's; and, as the said Wyndham saith, there shall not come past 4 or 5 more, small men."
P. 1. Add. Endd.
3 Aug. 27. Lisle to Paget.
R. O. Perceives by Paget's letter to my lord Great Master that the King would know the number of ships in his "army." Sends it herewith, showing the number at the time of the King's being here, the number equipped since, and the barks come out of the West. Thomas Wyndham, who arrived yesternight in my lord Privy Seal's bark, bringing another small bark of 24 or 25 tons, says that there is no such number of sails in the West as the King peradventure expects, and he knows of not four more; also none of them are "victualled for four days" (save that which Wyndham came in), which troubles my lord Chamberlain. And where the King would know "whether the renforce of the careckes be joined with the French fleet," and, if so, whether Lisle thinks himself able to "rencounter" them, the Western fleet being so small; there is no certainty that the careckes have joined, and it would not become him to presume that he is strong enough, but he dare venture, with this fleet that will be ready by Sunday, (fn. n11) to keep the seas, and so to set free the victuals at Rye and the hulks in Thames, and the passage of the Narrow Seas, or else drive the enemy to fight at disadvantage. Portesmouth, 8 Aug. Signed.
P.S.—Has seen his letter to the Great Master, purporting that the French fleet has departed homewards out of the Narrow Seas. Considering the westerly wind on Saturday night, (fn. n12) thinks that they have retired towards Diepe road (a good road for westerly winds) rather than homewards. Even now are come home two boats of Rye, who being sent out on Friday last to escry about Seane Heed, were carried by wind and tide "by lee the Barflete" and, with the Westerly wind on Saturday, fetched again the Seane Heed, and yesterday chased and captured a topman and a crayer (whose crews fled ashore) which are "handsome vessels for their bigness, and new." Has sent sundry boats towards the Narrow Seas, which have been always chased by the galleys which kept between this place and "their army." The King will shortly hear whether the said army is between the Narrow Seas and Seane Heed; and it seems very requisite for this navy to go forth "notwithstanding th[ose] news." The hulks out of Thames should come ready victualled and manned. Desires him to remind the King of the "four proper men of war at Dover, being appointed for the passage of the Narrow Seas," which might be put ready with men and victuals to join the fleet. Here are now arrived from Dartmouth three pretty barks, one of 120 tons and the others of 70 tons, and also two small pinnaces, victualled for 14 days.
Pp. 4. Add. Endd.; 1545.
R. O. 2. List of ships enclosed in the preceding, showing their tonnage and the numbers of their men, viz.:—
i. "Ships ready appointed and set forth for the wars at the King's Majesty's being in Portesmouth":—Harry Grace a Dieu, 1,000 tons, 730 men; Greate Venizian, 700t., 450m.; Peter Pomgarnard, 600t., 400m.; Mathew Gonson, 600t., 300m.; Greate Gaily e, 500t., 300m.; Jhesus of Lubick, 700t., 300m.; Arayozia, 500t., 300m.; Sampson, 700t., 300m.; Morian of Dansick, 500t., 250m.; Struse of Dansick, 450t., 250m.; Pauncye, 450t., 300m.; Graund Maistres, 450t., 250m.; Mary of Hambrough, 400t., 246m.; Anne Gallaunt, 400t., 200m.; Pellcan of Dansick, 400t.', 210m.; Lesse Gallye, 400t., 240m.; Saviour of Bristoll, 340t., 200m.; Swepestake, 300t., 240m.; Sallamaunder, 300t., 220m.; Minion, 300t., 220m.; Gallye Subtill, 300t., 250m.; Trickill of Dansick, 300t., 180m.; Spanyard Dera, 260t., 120m.; Swallowe, 240t., 160m.; Unicorne, 240t., 160m.; Fawcon Lisle, 200t., 160m.; Anne Lisle, 200t., 160m.; Newe Bark, 200t., 120m.; Greyhound,200t., 120m.; Harry of Bristoll, 180t., 120m.; Trinitie Carlion, 180t., 120m.; Margaret, 180t., 120m.; Jennett, 180t. 120m.; Trinitie Rennger, 180t., 120m.; Trinitie Smith, 150t., 100m.; Mary James, 140t., 100m.; Mary Conception, 140t. 100m.; Dragon, 140t., 110m.; Pilgryme of Dertmouth, 140t., 100m.; Roose I.yon, 140t., 100m.; Fawcon, 100t., 80m.; Mary of Drenewich, 100t., 70m.; Hynd, 80t., 50m.; .Saker, 60t., 60m.; Marlion, 60t., 50m.; Brigendyne, 40t., 50m.; Hare, 30t., 30m.; Lesse Pynnes, 60t., 45m.; Ron,— (blank) t., 80m.; The Erie of Hartfordes burke, t., 80m.; Renneger's pynnes, —t., 24m.; Mary George of Rye, —t., 115m.; Thomas Stepkyn, 180t., 120m.; Eraungelist Norton, 160t., 120m.; George Brigges, 140t., 100m.; Christopher Bennet, 180t., 120m.; Erannydist Judde, 160t., 110m.; Thomas Mawdalen, 140t., 100m.; Lartique, 100t., 80m.; Mary Fortune, 120t., 90m.; Mary Marten, 120t. 90m.; Galligo Renneger, —t., 80m.
Boats of Rye (tonnage not given):—
George 37 m., Mawdalen 37 m., Jhesus 30 m., James 30 m., Mary Georye 30 m., Trinitie 30m., Mary James Fletcher 30m.
Total ships and boats 69; men 10,390.
ii. "The names of the ships that have been prepared for the wars, and those that have come out of the West country since the King's Majesty's departure from Portesmouth":—Aragozia of Hampton, 600t., 450m.; Gallion of Hambrough, 400t., 240m.; Mawalen Dryver, 100t., 80m.; Peter of Lowestof, 140t., 100m.; Mary and John, 100t., 80m.; Mary Fortune of Lowestof, 110t., 80m.; Marten Bullye, —t., 60m.; Mary Bullern, —t., 100m.; Unicorne of Poole, 30t., 32m.; James of London, 90t., 68m.; Mighell of Newcastle, 80t., 60m.; Trinitie of Foweye, 80t., 60m.; [The lord Great Chamberlain's ships, —t., 80m.] (fn. n13); Erasmus of Hampton, 75t., 40m.; Marlion of my Lord Privy Seal's, —t., 60m.; Gallion of Lyme, —t., 40m.; Trinitie of Milbroke, 40t., 29m.; Androwe of Milbroke, 30t., 80m.; Fawcon of Plymmonth, —t., 80m.; [Renneger's pynnes, —t., 24m.] (fn. n13); Hoy Bark, —t., 25m.; Pikpurce, —t., 21m.; Grey of Lowestof, —t., 20m.; Sholder of Mutton, —t., 15m.; Redbrest, —t., 15m.
Total ships and boats 23; men 1,839.
Pp. 4. Endd.: The nombre of shippes in the Kinges Mates armye on the see.
3 Aug. 28. St. Leger to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., iii. 527.
This realm remains in good stay, and, supposing the King to be troubled with weighty affairs, St. Leger has written of occurrents to the Council. Sends two goshawks and a cast of falcons. One of the goshawks is a brauncher, the other a bower. Has never since coming hither been able to get one until now, and this with great difficulty. They are "of the best ayre of this lande." Kylmaynam near Dublin, 3 Aug. 1545. Signed.
P 1. Add. Endd.
3 Aug. 29. St. Leger to the Council.
R. O. One Logan, captain of the ship of Scotland called the Murderer, returning from the West of this land, was set upon by a French ship about the Old Head of Kynsale and (he being slenderly furnished because certain of his men had stolen from him), after most of his men were slain, and many of them had fled in the ship's boat, was constrained to escape in another boat. To show that the losing of the ship was not by his default, certificates by the mayor of Corke and sovereign of Kynsale are enclosed. Is similarly certified by Mr. Echingham, who is now at Korke and examined the master of the ship and the mariners who escaped. Intends to examine the matter and punish Logan's companions and soldiers if it appear that they did so shamefully flee from him. Kilmaynam near Dublin, 8 April 1545. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
R. O. 2. Certificate, specially addressed to the Deputy and Council of Ireland, that on 6 July 37 Hen. VIII., Wm. Logane, captain of the Mordyrore, "which was a Scotes ship in time past," was taken by Frenchmen by the haven mouth of Kynsale. Those who were by say that Logane fought manfully, and, after the master and company had fled in the ship's boat, still stood with only 10 men and killed certain Frenchmen, and finally he and those with him lept into a boat and escaped to this town of Kynsale. Signed: Per me Patryk Meed: per me Xpofer Martell, sufrane of the Kinges toune of Kynsal: per me Jhon Roche: per me Geffre Gallwey: per me Rychard Nashe: per me Rychard Yong: per me Edwardnm Gallwye: per me Jamys Whytt: per me John Gallwey. Seal defaced.
P. 1.
3 Aug. 30. St. Leger to Paget.
R. O.
St. P., iii. 528.
Thanks for kindness shown in England. Has delayed to write (1) because informed that Paget was ambassador with the Emperor, (2) because he wrote sundry letters to the whole Council which Paget would be one of the first to see and (3) because he knew Paget to be busied with more important matters. Trusts that Paget remembers the motion he made to return home, whereby the King may save 10,000 marks a year. Supposes that the overture pleased not, and is half afraid to move it eftsoons. Having no better token to send, sends a goshawk. Begs favour for his poor brother, Robert St. Leger, who last year sent the King 100 kerne at his own charges whereas others here "reared upon the country 40s. for every kerne." Now the said Robert has a ship upon the seas at his own charge to serve the King, although he has neither fee, office, farm nor land that he is sure of for one year. Is glad that Paget's son shall couple with his kinswoman, Sir Thomas Moyle's daughter. Paget will find Sir Thomas an honest man. Kylmaynam near Dublin, 3 Aug. 1545. Signet.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
3 Aug. 31. Carne to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., i. 548.
Upon receiving the Council's letters [or] (fn. n14) the 23rd ult., sued for access to the Ladie Regent, which was granted yesterday, after evensong. Declared his charge touching proceedings in the Diet at Calais and Gravling. She seemed satisfied, and said that doubtless Henry was well disposed to have all quarrels ended, and his commissioners did their endeavour; the Emperor and she were equally well inclined, but as yet she had not taken the report of the commissaries sent from hence, having had no leisure since she arrived here from Friesland on the 30th ult., late; she would gladly help to end such quarrels as were not finished in the Diet.
President Score met and gently accompanied him to the Lady Regent, asking by the way if it were true that the fleets of Henry and the French were in sight of one another. Answered that divers reported that it was not only so but that they had fought together, and although the calm was propitious for the French galleys, the French fleet had drawn back again to Newe Havyn. Then said Score "if they could not invade your Majesty's realm they have lost all this cost and charges." He spoke as if he had it pro explorato that they intended invasion. Told him that, if it came to invading, and the French king and all his power were once within Henry's realm, not one of them could escape alive. By last letters from the Emperor, he removes from Wormes today hitherwards, through Luxemburgh; and the Three Estates of this Country are to appear before him here on the 22nd inst. The King of Romans departed from Wormes homewards eight days ago. The King of Pole sues to have another of his daughters; and Landelo, of the Emperor's chamber, is sent to Rome for the dispensation. The Princess of Spain died in child-birth of the young prince lately born. Nothing is here spoken of France. Scotland is said to be towards a peace with Henry, and letters out of Scotland report that Henry's ambassador is there. Bruxells, 3 Aug. 1545. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.
R. O. 2. Another copy of the above, also signed.
Pp. 3. Endd.: "The double of the letter sent to the King's most excellent Majesty the iijde of this present."
3 Aug. 32. Carne to Paget.
R. O. Writes occurrents in his letter, herewith, to the King. In his absence at the Diet, receiving the Council's command to sue for licence for one Ducket to carry 2,000 or 3,000 rasers of wheat out of Holland, wrote to President Score, who obtained it of the Lady Regent, and also got a licence for powder and munition, for which Carne wrote by Mr. Damesell from Burborogh. Thinks that for thus setting forth the King's affairs when there was no man here to do it President Score deserves thanks. The writer's bed-fellow sends commendations. Bruxells, 3 Aug. 1545. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
4 Aug. 33. Provisions for Boulogne, Guisnes and Berwick.
R.O Warrant to the treasurer and chamberlains of the Exchequer (upon the Council's warrant, 3 July 1545, authorising them to pay 4,000l. to persons appointed by Stephen, bp. of Winchester, Sir John Gage, Sir Ric. Riche, Ant. Rous and John Rither) to deliver to Thos. Poyntill, of the Lymehouse, baker, 92l. 10s. 9d. for 21,7761b. biscuit, at 8s. 6d, the hundred, for Bullen. London, 4 Aug. 1545. Signed by Gardiner, Rous and Ryther, and also (as received) by Thomas Poyntell.
P. 1. Add. Endd.: Chaloner
R. O. 2. Similar warrant to deliver to Thos. Clerke and Wm. Ingram, of London, baker, 157l. 18s. 1d. for 35,0941b. of biscuit, at 9s., for Bullen. London, 4 Aug. 1545. Signed by Gardiner, Rous and Ryther.
P. 1. Add. Endd: Sol. per Joskyn.
R. O. 3. Similar warrant to deliver to Wm. Hobson, of London, yeoman, 83l. in prest towards making 22 horse-mills for the fortresses of Gwynes and Barwyke. London, 4 Aug. 1545. Signed by Gardiner, Rom and Ryther.
P. 1. Add. Endd.: Sol. per Joskyn.
4 Aug. 34. Anthony Huse to Paget.
R. O. Declared the contents of Paget's of the 2nd inst. to Roger de Prate, who gladly, for himself and Johan de Boyson, comes to submit his whole cause to Paget's order (as Gregory Cary has done), trusting that the process will be abridged, as he is grievously charged with the costs of the master and mariners "that brought the woode wich hetherto lyen here not unladen to his importable costes." Suspends further process till he hears from Paget. London, 4 Aug. 1545.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
4 Aug. 35. Anthony Whyte to John Johnson.
R. O. London, 4 Aug. '45:—Business affairs of the writer's mother and her intended purchase of Wm. Smythe's woolhouse in Calais, now leased to Mr. Goodyer.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Sealed. Endd.: "Aunsweryd at Glapthorne the 6 of the same, etc."
4 Aug. 36. [Paget] to Vaughan.
R. O. The King has received your letters of 30 July and seen those to me. The King accepts the bargain with Haler, and you should have had word ere this, but your letter only came by the common post yesternight late. You shall go through with the bargain for the jewels, &c., according to your last letters, viz., the jewels at 40,000 and the rest in money (out of which money Jasper to be satisfied for his herrings, about 5,000l. Fl.), to be paid one half in Andwarpe and the other half at Frankford in September. The money is most likely to be used all on that side, and the kind of money is left to your discretion. We would fain—though it cost l,000cr. or 2,000cr., have it all delivered at Callys. If they arrest it there, for which there is no cause, as all things are now at liberty, whatsoever bond they have of us they shall never be repaid, "and therefore advise them." For the bonds ("bandes") of London, my fellow Mr. Petre goes to London tomorrow to conclude with Rinuchins and Compaigne; and to make the bond for the interest of the whole, viz., for 330,000cr., although you must try to save the interest for the value of the jewels, or at least cause Jasper to deliver it at Callys. You will have ere this received my letters touching the bargain for alum. Please answer by bearer, who is despatched "another way (fn. n15) because the enemies be abroad between Dover and Callys." Cowdrey, 4 Aug.
Draft, p. 1. Endd., M. to Mr. Vaughan iiijo Augusti, 1545.
4 Aug. 37. Stephanus de Haschenpergk to Henry VIII.
R. O. Laments at great length his loss, through the machinations of enemies, of the King's favour and his fruitless efforts, first by his own letters and then through Queen Mary Regent of Flanders, to recover it. If he offended it was in ignorance; and at his going away all his property was taken from him, and the treasurer refused to pay his pension, nor has paid it these two years. Finding John Dimok at Lubeck on a mission to the senate, has asked his intercession. Is sure that he can be of service to Henry and his people and will wait about Lubeck or Hamburg for an answer. Lubeck, Tuesday "post Petri ad Vincula," 1545.
Lat. Hol., pp. 4. Begins: Serenissime simul et potentissime rex, princeps, &c.
R. O. 2. "Sequuntur quedam commoditates pro regno Anglie quas ego Stephanus de Hassenpergk, etc., in gratiam Regis et subditorum utilitatem statui communicare ubi in gratiam fuero reversus."
1. Has invented a way of melting tin and lead ore with stone coal instead of charcoal. 2. Also a way of making Roman vitriol (which is necessary for blackening cloth, &c.) within the realm. 3. Also a way of making saltpetre, otherwise called clack vitriol, in one place without going about the realm searching for it. 4. The fourth concerns a private art which he thinks that neither Vitruvius, Archimedes nor Ctesibius discovered "in aqua stante," viz., "quod duobus, tribus, aut quatuor equis, tanta aquarum multitudo ministrari possit in aqua stante que sufficiat xxiiij. generibus molendinarum circumagendis." In Nonsuch, where an aqueduct was begun but not carried to effect, he could make the service of water correspond to the nomenclature of the house.
Various other useful conveniences I intended to put up in the house which I bought and then to show them to others, but envy drove me away. "Omnia hec invidiam movent illis qui de aliena foelicitate tristantur, contra quos potentis tuitio necessaria. Stephanus de Haschenpergk."
P.S.Has no news to write except that Dominus Lasko, of Emden, has sent him a picture showing the two sides of a coin which he has seen and which he thinks should be copied in a new coin and sent to the Evangelical princes. Describes the designs and their significance as explained to him by the engraver himself. Also sends the picture of a mill invented this year. The inventor has had this printed to be shown to princes; and the writer understands its construction, but his fourth convenience mentioned above is far more excellent. S. D. Hass'p'gk.
Lat. Hol., pp. 3. Endd.: Stephanus de Hassembercke to the K's Mate, die Martis post Petr[i] ad Vincula 1545.
R. O. 3. A woodcut representing the two sides of a coin, the one showing the Imperial eagle suppressing with two swords a prostrate figure marked "Infidelitas," the other depicting the instrument of punishment called the stocks, under the date 1544, the pillars at the two ends being surmounted respectively with an Imperial and a Royal crown. The inscriptions are "Ad faciendam vindictam in nationibus" and "Ad alligandos reges eorum in compedibus."'
P. 1.
ii. A woodcut representing a combined wind and horsemill entitled in an ornamental scroll "Eine wunderliche roswintmulle," with some verses in German, beneath, describing the mill, as invented at Emden in East Friesland in the year 1545, by Do. Gewest.
P. 1.
5 Aug. 38. Suffolk, Lisle and St. John to Paget.
R. O.
St. P., i. 801.
Think it meet to signify their opinions in certain things, to be shown to the King if Paget thinks good. If the French fleet remain in the Narrow Seas, so that "th'renforcement" from London, the men of war in the Narrow Seas and the victual may not come hither, nor yet the King's crew "pass over," I, the Lord Admiral, with the fleet here should go "all alongst the coast." If the French be gone to their own coast so that "th'renforce" from London and Dover and the victual may come hither it should do so, for these reasons (1) that with the fleet here any attempt of the enemy upon these parts would be defeated; (2) that if the French fleet come forth again, Portsmouth is the most propice place for acting against them and for victualling; for if the victual in London, Kent and Sussex were come, the Lord Chamberlain would have enough to victual the fleet till 1 Oct. Once in the Narrow Seas, it is hard to tell when the fleet could succour these parts, if the French should return hither, although Suffolk intends before my lord Admiral's departure to make Portsmouth itself strong enough. If the enemy be on their own coast, the espial beyond sea may send advertisements of them. Intelligence of their proceedings is very requisite, and, for that purpose, boats of Rye and other places should scour the Narrow Seas as the Lord Admiral has sent to view the Normandy coast.
The Mary Rose's sails and sail yards are laid on land "and to her masts there is tied three cables with other ingens to weigh her up, and on every side of her a hulk to set her upright" tomorrow; and, that done, she shall be discharged of water and ordnance, and gradually brought nearer the shore.
Where the King would have five of the great ships from London manned with 1,600 or 1,700 men and victualled for a month; the lord Admiral thinks that if the best of the five at London were manned and victualled and sent to join the four at Dover it will be sufficient, with two great hulks here "that came from Burwage with salt in the company of ten others." No more of them are meet to serve, they being "clynchers, very weak"; and, as for the salt, they desire to have it sold or else placed in safety. These two hulks shall be manned and victualled here, and, if the King approve, bearer, Watson, can instruct the lord Chamberlain's servants to victual the ship at London. The lord Chamberlain has declared to Suffolk the "discription" of the 2,000 men appointed to repair hither upon first warning and also of the men that shall go into the Isle of Wight.
Desire to be partakers of the news from Bulloyn when it comes. Portesmouth, 5 Aug. 1545, 6 p.m. Signed.
Pp. 5. Add. Endd.
5 Aug. 39. Lisle to Paget.
R. O.
St. P., i. 804.
The Great Master, Lisle and the lord Chamberlain have now answered Paget's letters to them, but detain Watson until they learn the King's further pleasure; for Watson reports that four of the hulks in Thames are "clenchers," ships which cannot abide the boarding with another ship without danger of perishing. Omitted the captains' names in the book of the ships sent by last letters because, being in the Letill Tryrett with my lord Great Master, he espied 20 or 30 sails beyond Saint Helynes Poynt and hastened to his charge, forgetting to finish the book. The sails were certain small Western men and 11 hulks laden with salt from Burwage which the Kinges Fawcon, the Hynd and the Marlion met in mid sea and brought in here. Has chosen two of them, carvilles of 250 and 300 tons, as very meet to serve, if the King pleases; the rest are clenchers, feeble and old fashioned. If the King's army should repair to the Narrow Seas, and meanwhile the French fleet, whose present position is unknown, should return hither, the King's pieces here might be in danger, and the men of Kent and Sussex would say "Lo! now th'enemies be gone hence the King's Majesty's fleet is come hither, and now that the Frenchmen be come again to Portesmouth now my lord Admiral is come away." It is therefore thought best to remain here, from whence, if the French army return to the Narrow Seas, they may be attacked with advantage, and, if the French are retired home, some enterprise may be done upon their coast. The King will shortly hear of the said enemies; for three boats of Rye and two of the Western barks are on the Normandy coast to "discover" between Diepe and Seane Heed, and between Seane Heed and Barflete and so to the Hague.
The King's pleasure to have certain of his ships made to row, to attend upon the French galleys, shall be done as far as stuff and time permit; but all the shipwrights have been so occupied with making engines to bring up the Mary Rose tomorrow that they have had no leisure for other things. Portesmouth, 5 Aug.
P.S.—Sends herewith a book of all the King's ships in this army (besides the two hulks that are stayed and those that come from London and Dover) with the names of the captains. Where Paget wrote for names of gentlemen meet to be captains, the writer remembers none now here save Hussy, "that was one of the Rodes," who is now about Poule, and for whom he has sent.
Pp.3. Add. Sealed. Endd.: 1545.
5 Aug. 40. The Lord of the Isles to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., v. 482.
Facsimiles of
Nat. MSS. of
Scotland,
Part III.
No. 29.
Has received the King's letters and gift and is glad to be received into favour at the instance of the Earl of Lennox, true governor of Scotland, with whom he means to live and die. Has come to Ireland with 4,000 men to serve the Earl, and sends his commissioners, the bearers, the bp. elect of the Isles and the consul and chief justiciar of the Isles, brother germane to lord Maclane of Doward. As Christ chose poor fishermen to be His disciples and apostles, so the King has deigned to turn to the writer, who in his mother's womb was carried off to captivity and almost until this time has been kept in prison and fetters. Knokfargus, 5 Aug. 1545. Subscribed: Tue invictissime Celsitudini obedientissimus et subjctissimus (sic) Donaldus Rossie comes et Insularum Scotie dominus.
Lat. Hol., p. 1. Add.
5 Aug. 41. The Lord of the Isles to the Council.
R. O.
St. P., v. 483
Their writings brought by his kinsman Patrick Colquhoun show that he is "sett ffurth" to the King and them by the earl of Lennox, second person of Scotland; and he has received 1,000 cr. of reward and promise of 2,000 cr. pension, for which he gives thanks. Will serve the King, as Lennox shall command; and sends the bearers, his commissioners, Rore Macallister, bp. elect of the Isles, his kinsman, and Mr. Patrick Maclane, brother germane to Lord Maclane, which lord Maclane has proved himself the King's true subject according to his bond made with Lennox heretofore. Knokfargus, 5 Aug. 1545. Signed: Donald of ye Ilis and erll of Ros wt my hand at ye pen.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
5 Aug. 42. The Lord of the Isles.
R. O.
St. P., v. 484.
Instrument witnessing the oath taken in the Grey Friars of Knokfergus, in presence of Patrick Colquhoun and Walter Macfarlan, commissioners of the earl of Lennox, second person of Scotland, Walter Cluddy, constable of the King's castle of Knokffargus, Harry Wild, mayor of Knokfargus, Patrick Macgillaquhowill and Nic. Wild, baileys there, Wm. Dobbeyn, Wm. Omulen, and Ric. Sandell, by Donald lord of the Isles and earl of Ross, and his barons, viz., "Hectour Maclane of Doward, Jhonn Macallistir, capitane of Clanranald, Rore Macleod of Lewis, Alexr. Macleod of Dunveggan, Murdoch Maclane of Lochbowy, Angus Macconill, brudir germane to James Macconill, Allane Maclane of Torloske, Archibald Macconill, capitane of Clanhounstoun, Alexr Mackeyn of Ardnamurcham, Jhonn Maclane of Coll, Gilleganan Macneill of Barray, Ewin Mackynnan of Strayquhordill, Jhonn Macquore of Wlway, Jhonn Maclane of Ardgor, Alexr Rannaldsoun of Glengarre, Angus Rannaldsoun of Knwdeort, Donald Maclane of Kengerloch"; to be the King's subjects at the command of the earl of Lennox, and to support the King touching the marriage of the Princess of Scotland and all other affairs. These things were done 5 Aug. 1545, "nostre principis anno secundo."
Notarial certificate by John Carsuell, M.A. and clerk, notary public of the diocese of the Isles.
P. 1.
5 Aug. 43. City of Lubeck to Henry VIII.
R. O. Upon the petition (copy enclosed) of Henry Gellinkhusen, Bernard Kniper and other their citizens, they wrote to him on 15 Dec. (fn. n16) for compensation in the case of a ship of which Wm. Houeke, dec, was captain, which being used by Henry for defence of his realm was wrecked about the port of Dorthmunde, and now they write again to the same intent. Sealed 5 Aug. 1545. Subscribed: Consules et senatores civitatis Lubecæ.
Lat., Parchment. Seal gone. Endd.: The Consulls &c. "touching a ship of thers lost about Dartmouth."
5 Aug. 44. Wotton to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., x. 550.
On the last of July received letters from the Council, from Portsmouth, of the 25th, and on Sunday, 2nd inst., spoke to the Emperor as instructed. The Emperor answered that his ambassador had indeed written; and, as to the ships, he had sent letters to his ambassador which were not received when the ambassador wrote; as to the pacification, he ever desired it, but it lay not in him unless Henry and the French king agreed; and also the occupations of this Diet had kept him from attending to it; as to the aid he would send it; Granvele would more largely declare. He used, as usual, very gentle words.
Declared next day to Granvele what he had done with the Emperor. Granvele said that the Emperor's ambassador had written of the three points in question and the Emperor had already written his mind as to the ships; it was unreasonable that Henry's men of war should detain ships of the Emperor's subjects. Wotton answered that only those were stayed against whom appeared one of the "four things" he had mentioned. (fn. n17) Granvele said that the poor men were racked till they confessed what they never thought; which Wotton denied, and then Granvele said that it had been done and might be done again; the Emperor expected that his subjects should pass freely, and that any of them who offended should be punished. As to the pacification, Granvele said that the Emperor ever sincerely desired it, but first was detained from the Diet by sickness, and afterwards tarried there longer than he intended; now he would do his uttermost, and would send a personage for that matter, and would know whether Wotton thought that either king would be offended if the other was first sent to. Wotton answered that he had no commission to speak therein, and thought it not amiss to send one personage to each. To this Granvele objected that the matter required haste and would be sooner done by one man than two and the Emperor was sending to appoint one, but Wotton still thought it best to send two and let them meet at Calais or Bouleyn or Sanctomers. Granvele said that he would report this opinion to the Emperor, who would do as seemed most convenient. As to the aid, Granvele said that the Emperor would give it, in money as required and for the whole time limited by the treaty, but on condition that Henry would require of him nothing against his treaty with France and would promise like aid to him in like case; thus the Emperor thought best to let pass the "odious" questions of Henry's consent to the peace with France and the non observation of the treaty, but to have it "esclarcidde" how the treaty should be observed in future. Details further argument, in which he contended that the aid should be granted unconditionally, as Henry's was, and Granvele explained that the Emperor's meaning was that he should not be called upon to declare against the French king; finally saying that he was commanded to communicate these matters, but the Emperor, being now occupied about the recess of this Diet, would write his answer to his ambassador. Granvele then declared the Emperor's intention to preserve the perpetual amity, and that he himself had leave to go to his house to see his wife and children, and yet would not tarry there but return straight to Bruxelles to do his utmost for the pacification and for the conservation of that amity. Granvele then rose and hastened to others of the Council who were in another chamber devising of the recess of the Diet. He said that the Emperor would depart hence as soon as he could, on the 4th inst. if possible. Wormes, "the v. of this present, 1545." Signed.
Pp. 5. Add. Endd.: 5 Aug. 1545.
5 Aug. 45. Wotton to Paget.
R. O. On the 23rd ult. the Count Palatine made the Emperor another great banquet, at which were the King of Romans, the two archdukes, (fn. n18) the prince of Piedmont, the two French ambassadors, the ambassador of Portugall, the two nuncios and the greatest of this Court, as the Marquis del Guasto, the Cardinal of Augspurg and others, "with fires and shooting of guns and such other pastimes; where the Emperor showed himself very merry and jocund, the which is as rare with him as it was a rare thing to see him in his gown of velvet that day." The occasion was the birth of the young Prince (fn. n19); but joy is now turned to lamentation by the death of the Princess of Spain, mother of the said child. The news came on the 30th ult., and thereupon the King of Romans, who had that day ridden homewards, was again sent for, and departed again on the morrow. On the 28th ult. the Emperor and King declared to the States of the Empire their intention to prorogue this Diet and meanwhile hold a colloquium of learned men of both sides, viz. for each side four collocutors and four auditors; to which the Emperor will depute four presidents. They promised the observation of the peace until then, with gentle words, and then touched the matter of the Turk; as appears by the bill herewith turned into Latin by one Thalassius. Now the Commissioners reckon to depart very shortly; and we to leave tomorrow for Bruxelles to keep the exequies of the Princess deceased.
Certain men being gathered about Cleveland to serve the King, the French king instructed his ambassador to spare no money to have them dissolved, and the ambassador covenanted with Duke Henry of Bruynswyke, for about 2,500 cr. to do it; who has been with them and, as some say, has dispersed them. Thalassius saw the bill, by which Bruynswyke promised this and also "not to use these men against the Protestants." The French ambassador showed the bill to certain of the Protestants in order that they should not suspect that the French king meant to assist Bruynswyke. I cannot tell whether the Emperor looks for congratulation for the birth of his little son and consolation for the death of the Princess. Other ambassadors doubt not but that their masters will so do." The Marquis del Guasto returns to Milan by Switzerland, and fortifies the city of Milan and other places, "whatsoever that meaneth."
"I thank you for your good news, without the which we durst scant have showed our faces abroad here." I send herewith a letter that Thalassius, now at his departing, sent me. Mr. Honninges desires that John Honninges, his brother, should go home to see his friends and then return to continue with my lord of Westminster, and so he carries this despatch. He will be useful, for he is very desirous of knowledge and is acquainted in this Court by my using him as my secretary. He is one who may hereafter do good service even to the King.
"Sir, you must remember that th'Emperor must now seek out a wife for his son." I have not paid Honninges for his post money. Wormes, 5 Aug. 1545.
Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.
5 Aug. 46. Bucler and Mont to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St P. x. 554.
The Protestants' ambassadors have been so busy with the Emperor and the Catholics that we could never have their answer until today. We send it herewith, subscribed by the secretary of their league. We travailed to have the ships and soldiers transported to England or Callys at their cost; but they would not grant more at present. They "demand to have the money deposed "at Hamborough or Breame so that it may be ready at all times. They put in no certain number of years, because, as they showed us secretly, their league extends not above two years: although it will doubtless be renewed in their next assembly, wherein, as they suppose, "this confederation" may be finished. Meanwhile they refer your "responsion" to the Landgrave, to whom they will give authority to conclude all things concerning this league.
Mons. Addelot, sent from the Emperor, arrived at Rome, 14 July; whereupon the Bishop of Rome, 19 July, dismissed 12,000 footmen and 1,500 horsemen (because the Emperor alleged the year to be too far past) who "by th'universal opinion were gathered against the Protestants." The Emperor entertains 8,000 foot and 1,000 horse in garrison in Italy this winter; to make provision for whom Don Francisco du Wardie shall go hence. The Spaniards in Hungary are mustered, and paid for most of this winter, by Du Wardie's son in law. The Bishop of Rome lately paid the Emperor here, through the Welsiers, 93,000 cr., and similarly paid 100,000 cr. two months past. On the 2nd inst. the Emperor thanked all his captains for their attendance and licensed them to depart. We can get no certain knowledge of men of war levied by him in Germany or Flanders. On the 3rd inst. the recess of the Diet was read, the Emperor not being present as heretofore. The chief points were (1) That this Diet is prorogued to the feast of the Three Kings at Ratisbone; (2) That the colloquium of learned men shall begin there at the feast of St. Andrew, as we signified before in the Emperor's letters to the Protestants; and (3) That peace shall meanwhile be kept, as enacted at the Diet of Spiers. The Catholics protest against the second of these articles and refer themselves to the Council at Trent. There is the less concord because the Emperor seems not to observe certain things granted at Spiers concerning the Chamber of the Empire. Ferdinando departed on 29 July, was recalled the same day, upon news of the death of the Princess of Spain, and next day departed again towards Boheme with his elder son. His second son (fn. n20) goes with the Emperor to the Low Parts. The same day Ferdinando's commissaries demanded money for resistance of the Turk and for fortresses in Hungary, and also 200,000 geldrens which Ferdinando laid out in the winter war of 1542. The States answered that they had no commission to treat of this; and the commissaries, saying that they looked for no such answer, brought forth a protestation in writing that if Christendom took hurt it was not the King's fault. The Emperor desired that the money gathered throughout the Empire should be kept together till next Diet, which was agreed to. The Dukedom of Brunswick shall be "sequestered" to the Palsgrave, the elector of Brandenburgh, Duke Morice and the duke of Gulick, "wherewith the duke of Brunswick is nothing content." Most of the Emperor's train is departed towards the Low Countries, and he to depart tomorrow or next day, "howbeit he hath altered two appointments already." Wormbs, 5 Aug. Signed.
Pp. 4. Flyleaf with address lost. Endd.: 1545.
R. O. 2. The answer of the Protestants.
St. P., x. 555. The delegates beg the King's ambassadors to excuse the delay and to signify to the King that they have been unable to refer the matter to all the States, but the King may be assured of their willingness to make a defensive league. The delegates suggest the following conditions, viz.:—
That the league be for the defence of the Gospel and mutual aid if attacked by the Bp. of Rome; and refusals (recusationes) of Pontifical Councils should as soon as possible be published by the King and the Protestants. If the King be attacked, the Protestants will within two months aid him with 4,000 foot and 500 horse, at their own expense for three months, reckoned from the time of their mustering at Hamburg or Bremen. The King to have the men longer than three months, or to have more men, by paying for them. On the other hand, the King shall, within three months of the conclusion of this league, deposit 200,000 cr. with the Senate of Hamburg to be used for defence of the Protestants if invaded. That men may be assembled at any time, the King shall (as the States do) contribute an annual sum for the maintenance of certain captains. In any peace made both parties shall be comprehended. In the event of any dispute between the King and the Protestants each shall appoint a good man, with whom the king of Denmark shall be joined as arbiter. This league to last —— (blank) years, after which the money deposited by the King shall, if still not used, be restored.
The above are merely suggestions for further consideration. Signed: S. Aiting' s. ss't.
Latin, pp. 6. Endd.: Thaunswere of th'ambassad[ors] of the Protestantes.
5 Aug. 47. Bucler to Paget.
R. O. We have, by bearer, with the King's letters, sent the answer of the ambassadors of the Protestants, with whom we travailed for the moderation of every article, but, having no commission to promise them anything, we could bring them no further. We beg you to be our patron, that our proceedings may be well taken. The Protestant princes will write shortly for your help that this and other things in treaty between the King and them may take effect to the establishment of a perpetual amity. I desire that my servant may be returned with the answer to this. Wormbs, 5 Aug. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1545.
5 Aug. 48. Mont to Paget.
R. O. We have obtained this writing from the Protestants and beg that the delay may not be ascribed to us. We pressed to have the shipping for transport of the soldiers to England or Calais provided by these States, as it was not easy for the King to procure so many ships in a foreign land; but the delegates answered that they could not now grant this, as there is none present from the maritime cities. In confidence, they admitted that their league does not last beyond two years, although doubtless it will be prolonged at their next Diet. Some of the States having as yet no special commands for the treating of this cause, doubt arose whether the number of foot and horse to be lent by this party and the money asked of you were authorized; and I therefore obtained sight of the instructions of the delegates of Hesse, Wirtemberg and Lunenburg, in all of which it was so prescribed. Since all are now in favour of this confederacy care should be taken not to offend them by disputing (causando); for the Germans like simple contracts. Almost all affirm that these States will by this league give more than they gain; for the Germans are most observant of their promise, even to their own cost and danger. We have arranged with the delegates that we shall refer the King's answer to the Landgrave, to whom they will refer the consummation of this league; and they think that before next Diet the Protestants will hold a meeting among themselves, as the gravity and extent of affairs demands. To that article which begins "Ut autem quovis tempore" (fn. n21) they at first wrote "summam quatuor milium coronatorum," but now leave the amount to the King's judgment. Four days ago the Hessian commissaries confirmed to me what was otherwise partly signified to Dr. Wotton, viz., that a captain retained to the Duke of Brunswick had written hither to his fellow to go to the French ambassador and change 1,500 gilderns for crowns. The letter was for safety addressed to Chr. a Fenningen, commissary of Wirtemberg, to whom it was accidentally delivered, and the whole thing became known. The delegates of the Protestants thereupon sent to Dom. Grinianus, the French ambassador, to expostulate at his King's aiding the Duke of Brunswick, their sworn enemy; which could only mean that the French king wished to avenge himself on the Protestants for aiding the Emperor against him last summer. Grinianus, to excuse his master, told the whole story, viz., that Brunswick offered for 3,000 cr. to disperse the soldiers who were being enlisted for the King of England against the French king, and he signified this to his King, who wrote back that the money should be paid on condition that the soldiers were not drawn away to serve against the Protestants; and the ambassador spoke largely of his King's friendship in so stipulating, but when the Protestants in reply spoke of the money being employed against them he extenuated the thing. It is found that Brunswick was lately in France with the King, who gave him 2,000 cr., and the Cardinal of Turnon showed him much friendship. Very likely the French king will send out more of such corruptors. The French ambassador solicits both the Emperor and the States here not to suffer soldiers to be enlisted against his King. From the States he has had no answer.
In the other cause I have done as instructed; and because no answer is yet come from France, whither John Sturmius himself went, and because, now at the end of the Diet, the Protestants are very busy, I have not yet told the King's answer. Nevertheless, yesterday, I signified to the delegates that we had received answer. The ambassadors to go as well to the King as to the king of France are appointed, viz., Ludovicus a Baumburch, marshal of the Landgrave, and Sleidanus, a licenciate of the law, into England, and Chr. a Fenningen, marshal of Wirtenberg, and Dr. Hans Bruno into France. We shall abide at Francford until further instructed from you. Pray commend me to Dr. Petrus your colleague. Worms, 5 Aug. 1545.
Lat. Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.
R. O. 2. On a detached slip enclosed in the preceding:—"Cicero ait antiques dicere solitos pecuniam sine peculio, fragilem esse. Mihi tametsi modo satis munifice prospectum sit Regie Majest. liberalitate, tamen quandoquidem hec functio propediem optatum finem (ut spero) accipiet, rogo ut interim mei inemor esse velis, ne post hanc legationem finitam solita tenuitate premar. Equidem omnem vitam Serenissimo Regi impendere constitui et decrevi."

Footnotes

  • n1. The chevalier d'Aux.
  • n2. July 28th.
  • n3. Haller.
  • n4. August 4th.
  • n5. The North Foreland.
  • n6. August 8th.
  • n7. Reneger.
  • n8. Of Rome.
  • n9. August 10th.
  • n10. August 8th.
  • n11. August 9th.
  • n12. August 1st.
  • n13. Cancelled.
  • n14. The writer leaves it doubtful whether he means letters "of" the 23rd, or letters received "on" the 23rd; but the latter reading would seem to be right, for the Council's letter was written, or at least authorised, on the 19th. See Part I., No. 1219.
  • n15. This letter was sent in duplicate by different messengers, as will be seen by Vaughan's answer on the 12th.
  • n16. See Vol. XIX., Pt. ii., No. 761, which, however, is dated the 18th.
  • n17. The abstract in Part i. No. 1261 should have been more specific. In their conference with Van der Delft the Council got him to admit the right of search at sea and to detain ships in four cases, viz. (1) if they were French ; (2) if the charter party showed, or the crew confessed, that the goods carried were French (3), or victuals, (4) or munition,
  • n18. Ferdinand's sons, Maximilian and Ferdinand.
  • n19. Don Carlos,
  • n20. Ferdinand.
  • n21. Touching the annual contribution for captains.