Henry VIII: March 1546, 16-20

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 21 Part 1, January-August 1546. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1908.

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'Henry VIII: March 1546, 16-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 21 Part 1, January-August 1546, (London, 1908) pp. 190-203. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol21/no1/pp190-203 [accessed 27 April 2024]

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March 1546, 16-20

16 March. 399. [Paget] to the Treasurer of Boulogne.
R. O. Mr. Treasurer, whereas there was lately sent you, by Sir Wm. Godolphyn, 2,600l. st. for payment of the strangers and labourers there, the King, considering how long the labourers have been behind, would have you now remember the poor men's relief. Take up no more money of merchants without sending his Council here your letter of receipt addressed to a treasurer here, "naming no treasurer in the dorsement of your letter, but leaving that to us" to address it as shall seem meetest. Grenewiche, 16 March 1545.
Draft in Payet's hand written over the commencement of another letter to the same effect in another hand, p. 1. Endd.: * * * to Sir [Hugh Paulet], tres. of Boulloyn xv (sic) Martii 1545.
16 March. 400. Walter Devereux lord Ferrers to John Braddocke.
R. O. Friend John Braddocke, I have, this 16 March, received a certificate of Sir John Gaydge and Sir Edmund Peckham, commissioners for the King's household, for the first payment of the subsidy granted by Parliament, 37 Hen. VIII., that Hugh Rogers, groom of the Ewery, is valued at 3l. 6s. 8d. in wages. As they have 'sessed him more than we have done here, the best must be taken according to the statute, therefore "vex him no further in the premises." Charteley maner, 16 March. Signed (as chief commissioner for the county of Stafford).
P. 1.
R. O. 2. Certificate of Sir John Gage and Sir Edm. Pekham, commissioners of the King's household, for the first payment of a subsidy granted by Parliament in the year 37 Hen. VIII. that Hugh Rogers, groom of the Ewery, is valued at 3l. 6s. 8d. in wages. 21 Feb. 37 Hen. VIII.
Copy, p. 1.
16 March. 401. The Antwerp Loan.
R. O. Contract made between the Fuggers and Vaughan (whereas they have agreed for the loan to the King of 30,000l. Fl. which have been kept ready since last cold mart of Berghen, to be repaid with interest of 6 per cent. on 15 Aug. next, in virtue of obligations of the city of London and the King's letters of surety), for sale to the King of fustians of Bishorne to the value of 10,000l. Fl., to be paid on the same 15 Aug. (by virtue of other obligations and letters), viz., 421 bales of 45 pieces, and some pieces over, priced at 19l. st. the bale, counting the pound sterling at 25s. Fl. Colours, conditions of delivery at London, &c., set forth. Dated 16 March 1545, avant Pasques, although made by Gaspar Duchy before the payments of the said cold mart.
French. Copy, certified by Ant. van Male, Imperial notary, pp. 2. Endd. by Vaughan.
16 March. 402. Joachim Gundelfinger to Henry VIII.
R. O. Being commanded by the King to send a smelter, a mining surveyor and a man skilled in mining work, despatched three such persons with letter and money to Master Gerhartt, from whom he is grieved to learn that they have not kept promise. Retaining them and providing for their wives in their absence has cost him 156 cr.; and he fears that he may have incurred the King's displeasure, whom he is anxious to serve, as he more than once showed the King's envoy at the late Diet. After receiving a letter from the King's servant, Gerhartt, from Haydelberg, he would (had it come in time) have accompanied his prince, Duke Philip to the King. Wishes that Gerhartt had had time to have visited the mines and spoken with the miners, so as to see the methods used and take specimens of ore into England. Offers his own services, having spent in acquiring knowledge all his share of the copper, silver and gold mines. Sends Gerhartt a little book about minerals (berckpiechle). Wrote some time ago of a device (kriegs rustung) for field guns, as, long Spanish guns, hakes and falconets, which is very handy; and Gerhartt answered that he should send the gentleman of whom he wrote into England. Has seen proof of the gentleman's skill, who is master of the ordnance to Duke William (fn. n1) and has been written to by the French king and offered entertainment in France. Thinks that the King should write to this gentleman (his name is Bartholme Schrencken von Notzingen), and also authorise his envoy at Ratisbon to treat with him. Expecting that the King will want Duke Philip to bring men of war, and that provision of harness, spears, hakes, and powder would be needed, has treated with a good friend who can supply 1,000 harnesses of Nürnberg make at 10 cr. apiece, and 1,000 long guns of the Spanish pattern at 3 cr. Thus the men would be better furnished than with Cologne harness, and the King should deduct the cost out of their pay.
Of the Council of Trent and the colloquy at Ratisbon there is nothing to write but that in the latter place nothing will be accomplished whilst the spiritual electors show themselves opposed to the truth. Hopes that the approaching Diet will see to this, that Germany may have peace. From Hungary is nothing certain. The Bishop of Rome has made here 100,000 cr.; for what purpose is not known. The cities of Augsburg, Ulm and Nürnberg prepare horsemen to protect their merchants against their enemy the lord of Rosenburg. There is no commissioner at this time, but the Emperor himself is supreme. Augsburg, 16 March 1546. Signed.
German, pp. 4. Add. Endd.
R. O. 2. Latin translation of the above, rather explanatory than literal.
Pp. 5. Endd.: Translacion of Gundelfinger's l're to the K. Mate.
17 March. 403. London.
Security for the King's debts. See Grants in March, No. 24.
17 March. 404. Town of Yarmouth.
See Grants in March, No. 26.
17 March. 405. The Privy Council to Lord Cobham.
Harl. MS.
283, f. 361.
B. M.
Order being taken here for the sending over of victuals, John Brooke departs hence to take charge of the victual in the field; and Thos. Boyes, one of the men at arms of that town, is named by my lord Great Master to the charge of the victuals at Calais. Boyes and his servants are to be discharged from service abroad during that time. Cobham shall make ready carriage both by water and by land, and choose from the soldiers or other inhabitants men meet to serve about the victuals where Boyes and Brooke shall think necessary. The King requires him also to take order for the encamping of the Spaniards as signified heretofore. Cobham shall both suffer Boyes to attend his said charge and assist him, and, if necessary, shall get some Flemings to assist the brewers. He knows the importance of these affairs. Grenewich, 17 March 1545. Signed by Russell, Essex, Cheyne, Gage, Wyngfeld, Browne and Petre.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.
17 March. 406. [Berwick.]
R. O. Book, made 17 March 87 Hen. VIII., of the wage for one whole year due to the captains of the town and castle, officers, garrisons and soldiers [of Berwick].
Details of amounts due to Lord Eure, captain of the town for his own fee, 8 gunners, 2 clerks, espial money and soldiers; to Sir Nich. Strelley, captain of the castle, and to the executors of Sir Cuthbert Ratcliff, for fees, gunners and soldiers; to the marshal, treasurer, porter, master of the ordnance, chamberlain, watchmen, for fees, soldiers and repairs; and to the mayor, customer and comptroller of customs. Total 2,255l. 15s.
Also there is behind since last full pay, which was 10 Dec. 36 Hen. VIII., due to the officers and soldiers of Barwik, 14 Feb. last, 37 Hen. VIII., 1,775l. 2s. 2d.
Paper roll of two large leaves written on one side. Mutilated.
17 March. 407. Carne to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., xi. 77.
On the 13th inst. received a letter from John Brene and John Bregantyne, commissaries with Captain Courtpening, to the effect that, whereas the Emperor, at Mastryke, appointed that Courtpening should come to the Lady Regent before his soldiers could be licensed to pass through this country to Calays, whereof the Commissaries were advertised by my lords of Winchester and Westminster, it is impossible for Courtpening to come, who must be present at the musters at Nauhouse on the 17th inst., and the soldiers are to be at Calais on the 31st; and the Commissaries required Carne immediately to provide that the soldiers, "passing in smalle routtes," should not be stopped. Thereupon had a long conference with Score, who said that he would send to the Lady Regent, then hunting in the forest on her way towards Bynkes where she intends to tarry most of this Lent. On the 15th the President brought him her answer, that she would nowise go from the Emperor's resolution, and desired him to advertise the Commissaries that if they attempted to pass before Courtpening came to her they would be stopped; Courtpening might be here within three days after the muster, and at his coming there should be no difficulty for the passage. Evidently there is some other cause why they would speak with him, for they would appoint no order for the passage until then. About licence to transport wheat provided by John Dymoke there has been great stay, and the Council would finally have him send for Dymoke to appoint with the Lady Regent how much may pass without passport; for she "will be seen to grant no passport for any victuals," because of the scarcity here. Dr. Adryan van Burgh, of the Council of Malynges, is to join the Emperor's ambasssador there touching the merchants' causes, and departs tomorrow or next day. The President said that the Lady Regent meant shortly to visit all the frontiers of France and muster the horsemen. Bruxelles, 17 March. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.: 1545.
17 March. 408. Carne to Paget.
R. O. Has earnestly sued for passage for Courtpening's soldiers, and had answer as in his letter to the King herewith. For the licence to transport corn Dymoke and he this day go to Bynkes, by President Score's appointment, who "seemeth to be as good as he may," to take order with the Lady Regent as to the amount. Can learn no other news than he has written to the King, save that the Emperor is yet at Metz in Lorayn. The Lady Regent tarries all this Lent at Bynkes and about those frontiers. The President marvels to hear "nothing from Skyperius since his arrival there." Bruxells, 17 March. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1545.
17 March. 409. Vaughan to Henry VIII.
R. O. Has with much ado ended his bargain with the Fugger for the emprunture of 30,000l. Fl. in money and 10,000l. Fl. in fustians, being compelled, for reasons stated in last letter, to accept it as in the copy herewith. The Fugger is bound to deliver presently in London 121 bales of white fustians, 27 bales of "white raw" fustians and 30 bales of "blackes," and all the rest is to be sent to London from Andwerp and Hanborow within two months. "These fustians I thought better to be delivered at London than here, seeing I have promised him the same shall not be uttered ne sold for time nor less price than your Majesty buyeth them for, where your Majesty may better out of his sight, rid them than here;" for to perceive that this promise is not kept might drive him to bargain no more with your Majesty. Of this 30,000l. Fl., has appointed the Fugger to pay Jeronimo Dyodaty 6,000l. Fl. and Vyncent Baldassar and his company other 6,000l. Fl. due to them in April next; but John Carolo says that he is written to from London to respite his 6,000l. Fl. for six months, and Vaughan will agree with him therein. Dyodaty and Baldassar, being paid a little before their time, allow ½ per cent. "profit"; and the King paying them thus honorably before the day will encourage other men. Has been "in great talk" with the Fugger for the emprunture of 1,000,000 cr., wherein Jasper Dowche works honorably, and finds the Fugger content to deliver 600,000 cr., at 100,000 cr. monthly, a jewel priced at 100,000l. and copper for 300,000 cr., all for 12 months at 12 per cent, interest, "saving that for the copper and jewel I suppose to bring him to some good pass to take no interest." The Fugger is loth to deliver more money upon the obligations of London, but "upon some other towns and subjects" of the King, and also desires a bond by Act of Parliament. The Fugger and Dowche would have Vaughan obtain licence to return into England to declare their resolution, which they promise within 14 days; and with him they will "send the pattern of the jewel in lead and portraiture."
Merchants here say that the French king has pioneers and others ready to make a fort at Marguysen; also "that the Bishop of Rome is sick, and that many cardinals, fearing the continuance of their pompous estate, have commuted and rid many of their benefices away." The Emperor goes into Almayn. Mr. Dymok has laden in the King's ships which wafted the merchants' ships hither, 3,000 gammons of bacon for Calles. Yesterday the said same ships departed hence towards Seeland. The friends of Bonvyce and Antony Vivald have very honestly paid the money credited. Wishes them to know that he has written so. Acquaintances who have lately come out of France affirm that many pioneers and soldiers are ready to come towards Marguyson. Andwerp, 17 March.
Encloses memorial of the Fugger's offer of 1,000,000 cr., written by Dowche.
Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.: 1545.
17 March. 410. Vaughan to Paget.
R. O. Could make no other end with the Fugger for the 40,000l. than in the copy of the contract herewith. Three things moved him to agree to it, viz. the Council's writing that the King liked the bargain, the payments now due in April, and the "great and huge bargain whereof I now begin to talk with the said Fugger." For the debt of 6,000l. each to Dyodaty, John Balbany and John Carolo, this day sets the first two "over to the Fugger for their contentation." Has therefore nothing to do but talk of the new bargain of 1,000,000 cr., viz. 600,000 cr. in money, 800,000 cr. in copper, and 100,000 cr. in a jewel, the portraiture of which, and the Fugger's resolution, he will bring if the King license him to return home. Could not have a more convenient time, and begs that he may come home before Easter. The Fugger is bound to deliver presently 168 bales of fustians now in London, and the rest, which are here and at Hamborow, within two months; and will by no means hear of their being sold for days or under his price. His factor in London, Chr. Hayntzell, will deliver them; and Vaughan thinks that Sir John Gresham should receive them, and that they should be examined. By Nicholas, sends letters of the Fuggers to their factor. Writes more at large to the King. Begs that Jasper Dowche, who now writes into England, may have gentle promises, referring him till Vaughan's coming. Andwerp, 17 March, at night.
Hol., pp. 3. Add. Sealed. Endd.
17 March. 411. Vaughan to Cobham.
Harl. MS.
283, f. 216.
B. M.
Whereas the King has certain pipes with gammons of bacon sent to Calles in one of his ships which departs out of Seeland this day, having wafted over our merchants' ships out of England, it shall be "exceedingly well done" to, straightway, take them out of their vessels and hang them "in the roof of some houses in the air and wind, so as they wax not restie (rancid)." Here it is said that the French king has many pioneers and other ready to come towards Marguyson. "Take heed therefore that they take not their place before we can be ready." Antwerp, 17 March.
Hol., p. 1. Add., deputy of Calais.
17 March. 412. Charles V. to Prince Philip.
Spanish
Calendar,
viii., No. 213.
* * * *
The King of England's ambassadors give many assurances of his friendship, and the Emperor facilitates his great preparations to continue the war. Has sent Scepperus thither to assure the King of his goodwill and speak of a marriage of the Prince of England with a daughter of the King of the Romans, suggested by Winchester at Maestricht. Scepperus and another envoy sent by the Emperor's sister are to obtain redress of injuries suffered by Spanish and Flemish subjects and devise means of stopping these depredations.
* * * *
There was great fear in Germany that the Emperor would commence war against the Protestants; but this is somewhat assuaged by the answer which he gave at Maestricht to the ambassadors of the Electors Palatine, Saxony and Brandenburg, the Protestants, and the bishop of Cologne. They seem to desire an agreement upon religion, but Charles mistrusts their obstinacy, even though the Pope may not hinder the agreement as hitherto, or the king of France interfere. "Will see at Ratisbon what to expect. Nothing but the fear of superior force will move the seceders, who grow worse daily, and their sensuality is gaining ground.
* * * * Luxemburg, 17 March 1546.
[17 March?] 413. [Granvelle to Covos.]
Spanish
Calendar.
viii., No. 214.
Since Marquina was despatched it is reported from Rome that the Pope expresses fears that the Council is going further than he intended, and suggests diverting the German enterprise elsewhere, as to England, fearing that the German plan, if carried out, may enable the Emperor to make the Protestants consent to the Council. The real facts will be learnt when Marquina arrives. Peace with France. Sienna. The English are determined not to make peace with France; which exactly suits us, and the principal object of sending Scepperus to England was to watch proceedings. The bp. (fn. n2) who came from England to negociate with the French returned from Maestricht. With England matters remain as before, certain questions regarding the interpretation of the treaty having been answered by us. The English lodged protests that this interpretation should not prejudice the claim they made for aid last year, but, upon our reply, they withdrew their protests. The ambassadors of the Protestants prayed the Emperor to refer the bp. of Cologne's justification to the coming Diet at Ratisbon and, in view of rumors that the Emperor would raise war in Germany, not to allow German blood to be shed by foreign troops. His Majesty "replied to them with the suavity and truth that your worship will understand from the condition of affairs." Are going straight to Spires in seven stages. Expect that the Landgrave of Hesse will come to justify himself. Brunswick remains under arrest. The King and Queen of the Romans will be at Ratisbon. The Pope and his friends would like the Cardinal of Jaen away from Trent, for they know that he is brave and zealous.
18 March. 414. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A.P.C., 347.
Meeting at Greenwich, 18 March. Present: Privy Seal, Essex, Admiral, [Durham, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Paget, Petre, Sadler, Riche]. Business:—Warrant to —— (blank) to pay 800l. for victualling of Boulogne and Calais at the appointment of St. John, Gage, Riche and Ryther or any two of them. Letter to —— (blank) that his letter of the 12th, mentioning what munitions he had sent hither and what pikes of Flemish ash he had ready for Boulogne, was well taken, and he should consign the pikes to Sir Henry Palmer; and where he further wrote of a bargain with an Easterling for 3,500 qr. of rye at 16s., he should go through therewith. Letter to —— (blank) that bearer, Mr. Reskynner, &c. (an unfinished entry cancelled in the MS.). Letter to President and Council of Wales to restore the goods of Thos. Ludlowe, serving at Boulogne, who had been reported dead and his goods delivered to his wife, with whom he "did not best agree;" for the said Ludlow proved to have been prisoner in France, and was now returned to raise his ransom. Warrant to —— (blank) to pay costs and conduct for 100 miles to Mr. Roskymmer, the bearer, who, being appointed to conduct 100 footmen from Cornwall to Dover, brought them a good part of the way, and was then countermanded to ship them at some port there, to be at the command of my lord Admiral.
18 March. 415. William Honning to Mr. Joskyn.
R. O. Mr. Joskyn, because Lady Day is at hand and I am here despatching things into the country, I require you to send me by bearer, my servant James Johnson, 10l. to be then due. I shall deliver you my patent of 20l. by year at our next meeting. Written 18 Martii 1545.
My patent is at Court or I would send it. I doubt not you believe my letter.
Hol., p. 1. Subscribed with Jas. Johnson s receipt for the 10l.
18 March. 416. Scepperus to Mary of Hungary.
Spanish
Calendar,
viii., No. 215.
Hertford leaves to-day for Boulogne with 5,000 or 6,000 Englishmen dressed in three colours. They will encamp between the new town and Marquise to prevent the French making a fort at the latter. The King's illness is the reason given by Paget for delaying the writer's audience, but perhaps they are waiting for the bp. of Winchester's return. The King's ships are all ready. Thinks the English will only make defensive war and be satisfied with Conrad Penninck's lanceknights until St. John's tide. All the Italians, Germans and Spaniards who went against the Scots are going to Boulogne. The Spaniards number 1,600 or 1,800 good fighters, who behaved well in the Scottish campaign. The principal nobles are away from the King, some being at Dover and Sandwich arranging about victuals, and others in divers places raising troops. London, 18 March 1546.
18 March. 417. O'Reilly to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., iii. 559.
Begs the King to consider his costs about the 100 men whom he sent into England. They cost him 600l. and have eight weeks of their wages unpaid because of their long tarrying at Shester and Hollyhed for the wind. For his services to the King and his Deputy in Ireland, desires a farm in his own land worth 18l. a year which Prior Ford had. Begs favour also for "this poor chaplain," who was taken prisoner in Scotland and paid 8 nobles for ransom. There are many in Ireland with 2s. and 3s. a day who do the King no more service than he.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.: Orelley to the Kinges Mate xviijo Mercii 1546. (fn. n3)
18 March. 418. Philip Landgrave of Hesse to Henry VIII.
R. O. Has received the King's letters for the detained arquebuses; and, although he ought not to release them without the consent of his confederates, when he learnt that the King had procured them in Milan and Italy, he at once caused those at St. Goar (in oppido Sancti Guari) to be restored to the King; hoping that his kinsman, the duke of Wurtemberg, to whom he has written, will under the circumstances readily do the like. Would do nothing to offend the King, and trusts that he and his confederates may experience the King's friendship. Gudensberg, 18 March 1546. Signed.
Latin, pp. 2. Add. Endd.
19 March. 419. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A.P.C., 349.
Meeting at Greenwich, 19 March. Present: Privy Heal, Essex, Admiral, [Durham, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Paget, Petre, Sadler, Riche]. Business:—Passport for Martin van Haerte and ——— (blank), Almains. Letter to Mr. Gresham and Mr. Wingfeld, at Dover, to permit ——— (blank), whose ship arrived there with 21 lasts of herrings to sell the herrings unless they could be proved Frenchmen's goods.
19 March. 420. Carne to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., xi. 79.
This day being with the Lady Regent for licence to transport certain wheat from Dordryght, bought by John Dymoke, she, after long consultation with the duke of Arscot and President Score, answered, in Dymoke's presence, that the Emperor charged her to license no corn which might relieve this country to go out, "as all the corn that cometh to Utryght, though it come from Cleves or Gulyke, who can have no utterance for lack of rivers but only in these countries;" as for Easte Londe corn the King might have 100 last and passage for any that might arrive here out of Easte Londe; and she granted the cheese and butter for which Dymoke sued. Upon Mr. Vaughan's desire to have her letter to the Margrave of Andwarp to search for persons, under colour of merchandise, practising for the French king against Henry, she said that lately she took one in Utryght that practised for the French king against both Henry and the Emperor, and that the French king had intelligence with all the Almains retained heretofore, so that if it had come to battle they would have joined the enemy. She further confessed that the French king has sent into Scotland for them to make peace and not stay to promise the young Queen's marriage for my Lord Prince, provided Bolong is rendered to the French king; for, being an infant, she may on coming of age go from any promise. She showed this privily, and also said that she would write to the Margrave to search for such practisers. Bynkes, 19 March. Signed.
Pp.2. Add. Endd.: 1545.
19 March. 421. Carne to Paget.
R. O. Today I received a packet of letters from my lord of Westminster, with a letter willing me to forward them to you with speed, and therefore I despatch this post with a letter to the King of matters for which I was with the Lady Regent this day. Mr. Dymoke and I can nowise get any licence to transport any but East Lande corn. I sent letters to Andwarp to be forwarded by Mr. Vaughan, of the 17th inst., touching Courtpenning's soldiers and the despatch of Dr. Adrian van Burgh to join the Emperor's ambassador there for the merchants' causes, who starts today or shortly. I have been bold heretofore to pray you to speak with the Treasurer of the Chamber that now is for my diets, which are far behind unless paid since I wrote. So doing, you shall do a deed of charity. Bynkes, 19 March, very late in the night. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1545.
19 March. 422. John Dymmock to the Council.
R. O. As he wrote in his last letter, was sent for to speak with President Schore at Bruxsels. Mr. Carne, the King's ambassador went with him, but as soon as the ambassador began to talk of the corn the President "was very hot, and did make it very heavy to ask any such quantity of victuals," but finally concluded that he would do what he could with the Queen, and insisted that the writer should go to Bynckes. The ambassador and he have done so, and have prayed the Lady Regent to let pass the corn already shipped at Dorte; but she has only granted 100 last of Estland corn, 100 barrels of butter, 300 weight of Holland cheese, and 2,000 gambons of bacon. For himself, would not have taken it, but has followed the ambassador's order, and departs with it towards Holland. The corn already laden in four ships is 135 last, and the rest bought and paid for, 115 last. Will venture any safe way to convey it; but if that cannot be, he desires to know what to do. Will be fain to pay the freight, whether the ships go forth or not.
"I did declare this unto your honors or ever I was sent forth, that unless I had licence it would be hard to have away any manner of victuals. I am sorry that I should go in any of the King's affairs and that it should go no better forwards. God knows my good will as I do mean it, but I am not believed what that I do say unto your lordships. Surely fair promise you do not lack for to serve their turn with, but concerning their fact or promise they will find excuse enough. I pray God that the sending for of Courte Pennyncke be not for some blind matter, as they have many in this country. I pray your honourable Lordships to pardon me of my rude and plain writing unto your honours, for surely I do perceive, give that they did mind any goodness towards the King's Majesty with heart, as they can speak fair with their mouth, they would not have refused this corn which I have ready, seeing that there is corn enough coming down the Masse every day out of Cleveland and Gulycke land, as there does come; for give I might have liberty for to carry it away I could provide above 600 last within a month's day. I will see what I can do with the customers, with some gift or pleasure to be given to them. Other ways here is not to be had at this present, as the King Majesty's ambassador has informed your honors." Bynckes, 19 March 1545.
Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.
19 March. 423. Bruno to Paget.
R. O. I received your letters, (fn. n4) through Mr. Mont, the 17th inst., and rejoiced to learn that mine from Franckfort reached you. You think it strange that I should write that our States are as much inclined to the king of France as to the King of England. The first reason is that our States have intervened to make peace between the two Princes. Moreover the king of France and his ministers have always given us to understand that they meant not to consent to any such Council as that at Trent, nor send any one thither to treat or accord anything to our prejudice. Moreover, our people would not without great occasion irritate the said Prince, being their neighbour and so powerful; although lately the Palatine, Saxony and Hesse wrote from Franckfort, upon the good words of Rickerod, Baissfontaine and others, a letter asking the King of France to cease persecuting those noted to be of our opinion and had an answer assez aigre et estrange (copy herewith). Besides, the said King, approving this Council of Trent, has sent thither some cardinals and 12 bishops, among whom should be the abp. of Reins and Castellanus bp. of Macon. The said answer, with the promotion of the Council and the persecution now made at Paris and everywhere in France, will doubtless alienate our people; and therefore your letter has come à propos for me to tell its contents to our States, shortly, at Wormes, where they are to be. What you write of dangerous spies here is true; but you must understand that the one, Richkerod, being a gentleman of the country of Hesse, is supported by the other gentlemen as their kinsman, friend and neighbour; but I think the Landgrave treats them as he would men who should come to him from the King of England. As to Bassfontaine, they (ilz) are often with the Palatine and, to induce him to favor his (son) master, give him to understand that his master will intervene to agree him with the king of Denmark. I know that Coronel Rickerod has been lately to the Palatine with another called Sebastian Vogelsperger, which two were both together at Heydelberg, and that they have already retained certain captains for the king of France; but they make no assembly as yet.
As to our departure from France we came (as men in grief) straight, without going to court; but it is true that I went aside, with President Remon, to Amiens, to speak to Madam d'Estampes about certain means of peace, "et quil me debvoit en brief foir response et m'envoyer homme expresse ce qu'il n'a encores faict, parquoy ne vous en ay sceu escripre plustost." I have since sent about it another gentleman, a servant of the King and very intimate with the said lady, but have no answer; "qui me faict penser." The French boast that for this year they fear no war from the Emperor "qui leur cause non grandement appeter la paix comme ilz souloient par avant, et puis aussi quilz ne font response;" and I fear they may this year try by land and sea to besiege Bouloingne and Guynnes and set their fleet before Callais to stop the coming of victuals, unless they are greatly hindered in Piedmont. If the French should raise men here and attempt to besiege the places above named, I would much desire to tell one of your confidential servants, or yourself, things which I think to be greatly for the service of the King and the public weal. If anything reaches me from France, as to peace, I will let you know it; but I believe that the most confidential ministers of the king of France are trying, by the Pope's means, to make an amity between the Emperor and their King, and not with yours or our States; and it seems to me that since the French king has conceived (from the Pope and his own ministers) this hope of the Emperor's amity, he no longer so much desires peace with you. Thanks for your advertisement of the Marquess of Brandenburg. I believe that the 1,000 horse that he is to raise this Easter are to conduct the Emperor into Italy, as also are the lanceknechts who are bruited to be levied about lake Constance; for it is thought certain that, after the Diet of Ratisbon, which should begin on the first of April, his Majesty will go into Italy and Spain. His Majesty is already on his way to Ratisbon and will be at Spires within four days, marching with only about 400 horse. As soon as I can learn who is chief of these lanceknechts I will write it to you or Mr. Mont. There is no appearance of any agreement from the colloquy of Ratisbone; and I believe that nothing of value will be done unless the Emperor permits another manner of proceeding. Fifty bishops are at the Council of Trent, and have done nothing or very little. The Pope endeavours to incite all potentates against our people, and to withdraw the Council, from Trent, to Rome or Bologna. The French say that the Pope will marry his son's daughter to the Prince of Piedmont, who has been in Rome for some little time. The king of France sent lately to the Swiss; but his demand is not yet known, and there is no bruit of anything in Switzerland. The Landgrave of Hesse is to speak with the Emperor at his Majesty's passing the Rhine.
"Monseigneur, je trouve bon que le Roy Serenissime eust escript une bonne lettre au Palantin quod non nimium fideret verbosis istis hominibus quipollicitis sunt ditissimi, et que ces lettres viegnent audit Prince envyron le premier d'Avril; item une aultre de pareille substance au Landtgrave de Hessen, et au mesme temps." Strasbourg, 19 March '46. Not signed.
French. Copy or decipher, pp. 5. Endd.: Bruno to Mr. Secr. Mr. Paget, xix. Martii 1546.
424. [Bruno to Paget.] (fn. n5)
R. O. "Post datum.—Monseigneur, il vous plaira me faire ce bien de faire mes treshumbles recommendations a la Majeste du Roy" and inform his Majesty that the Protestant States will assemble at Wormbs, 1 April, mainly to prolong and amplify their League. I will be there at the commencement, and if there is anything I can do for the King, on your sending word in time by instruction or by Mr. Mont, I will do it as a good servant would wish to do for a good master. If you write to Mont to let me know when he sends to you, I will send you word of occurrents here. There are captains here, like the said Sebastian Vogelsperger, who gave money to retain men of war until Easter, but no levy is made "synon le bruict qui est vers le lac de Constance." If the king of France were to make any assembly of men of war against the King's Majesty it seems to me very expedient that I should come to you to declare "d'aulcuns moiens" which I cannot well write; and therefore the King's ministers or ambassadors with Queen Mary might well obtain me passport in case of need. Dat' ut in l'ris.
I doubt that our States will not meddle with peace between these princes unless they have some certain hope of it. Wherefore, I cannot see that it is possible unless the King permit the Scots to be comprised, since France will not abandon them. As to Boulogne, it should remain the King's until all his debts, &c., are paid. But if you know any other expedient and will signify it to me secretly, I will put it forward, by third parties, as of myself, "tant povez vous fier en moy que en userei tousjours lealement et fidelement."
French. In Bruno's hand, pp. 2.
20 March. 425. The Privy Council.
Dasent's
A. P. C., 350.
Meeting at Greenwich, 20 March. Present: Privy Seal, Admiral, [Durham, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Paget, Petre, Sadler, Riche]. Business:—Passport to Calais for a hoy, Chr. Johnson, master, laden with harness and munition for Captain Peter Hoen's band. Placard for John Bradeforde to take carts and horses between this and Dover for the King's use. Warrant to Mr. Cavendish, treasurer of the Chamber, to pay Sir George Baynham, one of the commissioners of musters in Gloucestershire, wages of 100 men levied for service beyond sea and countermanded four days later. To —— Broke, paymaster of works at Dover, to pay Ant. Aucher, comptroller of works there, wages (specified) from 26 Sept. 36 Hen. VIII. to this 20 March. Letters to Lord Graye of Wilton, who had written by bearer that Villeneuf would not declare his mind to any other than bearer (who, considering the room he is in, seemed unmeet for the practice) that since the revictualling of Ardres had frustrated the service, Gray should proceed no further unless Villeneuf would treat with such others upon the Flemish pale as had been appointed. Letter to Lord Deputy and Council of Boulogne, that bearers, Adryan Poynenges and Thomas Audeley, were appointed lieutenants, respectively, of the Base Town and the Old Man, each with 13s. 4d. by the day and 10 men in wages, and that, as Sir Andrew Flammok was to be employed on this side, Sir Richard Wymbanke was appointed knight porter of the High Town. To the Commissioners at Calais, to provide shipping for the soldiers as they arrive there, and Sir John Harington should abide there meanwhile.
20 March. 426. Horton Prebend in Salisbury Cathedral.
R. O. Grant to the Crown by James Lomelyn, one of the prebendaries of Salisbury Cathedral, of his prebend of Horton, Glouc., and of the manor and advowson of the church of Horton. Dated 20 March, 37 Henry VIII. Signed: Per me, Jacobum Lomelinum. Seal appended, much injured. Note by Sir Edward North, that the above was recognised before him, 9 Dec 38 Hen. VIII.
Parchment. [See Eighth Report of Deputy Keeper of Public Records. App. II, 24.]
20 March. 427. Council of Ireland to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., iii. 560.
As the Deputy now repairs to his Majesty, they certify that he has truly served, and that the English Pale is in such peace as never before within their remembrance. The Irishry, although the King's laws are not current among them and they have many strifes and contentions, more recognise Henry as king and are more obedient to the Deputy than the writers ever knew them. Beg the King to thank the Deputy for this; and to continue his goodness to this poor realm. Before departing, the Deputy assembled the nobility and appointed Sir William Brabazon to be justice, and exhorted them to persevere in their obedience. Dare not however undertake that the Irishmen are to be trusted "more than to such barbarous people should be trusted, which, of nature and long custom being disposed to ambition, liberty and ravin, oft transgress and revolt from their duties and promises if fear of punishment refrain them not." Dublin, 20 March 1545. Signed: John Alen, yor Maties chancelor: George Dublin': G. Armachan': James of Desmond: Edwarde Miden': Jenico vicunt of G.: Thomas Ewstas vic. of Baltynglas: J. F., B. off Slane: Edward Laurens of Howthe: Rychard baron of Dellven: Johne lorde of Kyllene: P. B. lord of T.: Rob't Plunket of Dunsany: Edmond of Dunboyn: Thomas Butler of Kayre: Will'm Brabazon: Gerald Aylmer justice: Thomas Lutrell justice: James Bathe baron: Thomas Cusake Mr. Rott'lorum: John Travers: Thomas Houth justice: Patryke Whyte baron: Edwarde Basnet dean: Thomas Lokwod dean.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.
R. O. 2. Copy of the above in the same hand. Not signed.
P. 1.
20 March. 428. William Damesell to the Council.
R. O. Long before receiving their letters ordering him to finish the bargain for 3,500 qr. of rye and 500 qr. of wheat with Adriane and Michaell Koshler of Danske he had done so; and they are bound to deliver it at Dover and London, upon like conditions as in the bargain with Erasmus Schett. Had not the King accepted this bargain the writer had sold it to the Lord Mayor of London at a profit of over 100l Begs them to order payment of the 200l. to the Koshlers' factor in London at Middle Lent according to the bargain (copy herewith). Sent hence in two crayers, under conduct of the King's ships of war which came hither with merchants' ships, which (as the wind has been fair) he trusts are now at London, the following, viz.:—Square copper 72,205 lb., demi-boullet copper 30,100 lb., "cliffes for northern staves" 1,000, lances for horsemen 500, serpentine powder 9,323 lb., saltpetre 8,500 lb. Has also ready to be sent within 8 or 10 days 2,000 "very fair and handsome" pikes made purposely for the King; and asks whether to send them to Bollayn or London. Now sends 10 or 12 anchors which are ready; and, through friendship with the "tollners" of this town, has passed 16 pipes of bacon, for which John Dymocke had no passport, to be delivered at Bollayne or Calleis. Had much ado to ship this munition at night because the Lady Regent had commanded the Margrave of this town that it should be done secretly. The Margrave frankly showed him that he had large offers of money last year, by Frenchmen here for the French king, to disturb shipments of powder and other things for the King, "alleging that the Emperor, being friend unto the French king, promised him not to assist the King's Majesty with any munition or otherwise against the French king his master." The Margrave knew from a friend that the French king had 8,000 pioneers ready, who left Paris on the 3rd inst., and would at the end of this month join his army about Mergeson to make another fortress. Has received of Mr. Vaughan 4,100l.Fl. and needs another 1,000l. Fl. to pay for the munitions. Andwerpe, 20 March 1515.
Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.
20 March. 429. Maximilian d'Egmont [Count of Buren] to Henry VIII.
R. O. Sends bearer his squire (escuier) with a small present to offer services and thank the King for the honour lately done the writer. Bueren, 20 March 1545. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1545.
20 March. 430. Bruno to Mont.
R. O. I received your letter by the bearer of this together with that of Mr. Paget to me, and send in return a letter to him from me, (fn. n6) which I request you to forward by post or courier safely. I have detained the messenger longer than I should have done; but I wished to answer your enquiry more fully from personal knowledge, especially what you ask with regard to the Confederates, etc. I hear of a recruiting of landsknechts about Constance on the Boden See, but it is not divulged who is their lord. But I rather think there was to be a company of men raised thereabouts to wait upon the Emperor and to go with him into Italy. If perhaps I get certain knowledge about it in a few days I will not withold it from you.
As to the business of Frankfort I have no personal knowledge. I think nothing has been concluded there, except as regards the common contribution (? den gemcinen uffgehabten pfennig). But the rest was left to be concluded at that Diet at Worms on the 1 April, especially to consider what the ambassadors of the Electors and Protestants have laid before his Imperial Majesty. In the next place to prolong and amplify the League, contrary to the hope and foolish expectations of many. But what will take place we shall both see; for I hope we shall both be there, as I am determined to be at the beginning, as diligently and faithfully attending to advance with our States all that you and Mr. Paget write of to me—but, I expect you also will not be absent, and I need not add words. I write as you desire to Mr. Paget, but I cannot bring the thing (fn. n7) to pass, unless the States are assembled in considerable number.
I have delivered your letter to Herr Peter Scheren, who also sends an answer. The Englishman Richard is not here, but as soon as he comes Herr Peter Scher has his letter ready to deliver to him. My wife and children, and especially D. Sleidanus, wish you a good time.
If Paget writes to me again you will send it on to me. Strasburg, 20 March '46.
Has given the messenger 8 batzen.
German. Hol., pp. 3. Endd.

Footnotes

  • n1. Of Bavaria in § 2.
  • n2. Gardiner.
  • n3. This date being endorsed by an official hand must be that on which the letter was received, there being no date in the letter itself. And if so, "1546" probably means the historic year 1547. The writer addressed his letter expressly to "Kyng Hary," but it was received, apparently, in Edward VI.'s reign. It is, however, printed in the State Papers as of the year 1546, and, not to, omit notice of it, we retain it there.
  • n4. No. 278.
  • n5. Apparently a postscript to the preceding letter, but found apart from it.
  • n6. No. 423
  • n7. Mediation. See No. 424.