Henry VIII: September 1521, 11-20

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 3, 1519-1523. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1867.

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'Henry VIII: September 1521, 11-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 3, 1519-1523, (London, 1867) pp. 650-664. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol3/pp650-664 [accessed 23 April 2024]

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September 1521

11 Sept.
Calig. D. VIII. 92. B. M.
1563. [FITZWILLIAM to WOLSEY.]
After writing, a post came from the Chancellor. I thought it well to learn what news he brought, and went to the King today. He asked me if I had heard from you. I said no. He then told me he had word from his Chancellor, that the Emperor had sent for his Chancellor, and would have no peace, thinking he had an advantage. He said he was glad of it, and would send for his. Touching the fishing of both their subjects, which you have communed of, he said, as the Emperor wished for war, his subjects should fish at their own adventure, and he had so provided that they should not fish at their ease. As to the King's streams, he will refuse him nothing. The More is at liberty, but the Italians who serve him are put away. I hear the French king considered that if he took away his pension on a light ground, no strangers would trust him, but they say he will be so ordered that he will not put the French king to so much expense, but yet will be at liberty. I asked the King to allow my servants to pass through his realm, and he told Robert Tete to give them a bill, but said that many others passed under color of them. I said that was against my will, and I would show Robert Tete my packet at any time, that he might see no letters but mine went. Troyes, 11 Sept.
Wish to be recalled at Michaelmas, for matters I have mentioned before.
P. 1, partly cipher, mutilated.
Ibid. f. 93. 2. Decipher of the above. P. 1.
11 Sept.
Galba, B. VII. 117. B. M. St. P. I. 53.
1564. PACE to WOLSEY.
On sight of this, Wolsey is to counsel the Emperor, in the King's name, not to hazard his person, or to be present when the French king shall strike battle with his army. The loss of his person would be as great as the loss of his whole army. Oking, 11 Sept.
Hol. Add.
11 Sept.
Mon. Habs. 311.
1565. CHARLES V. to his AMBASSADORS at CALAIS.
Has received their letters of the 3rd and 6th, with the four articles, which he is content that they should sign. Wishes to see the King's safeconduct for the ambassadors, before sending his, that they may be similar. The posts are in the hands of the English, and will not run oftener than at present, but messengers will carry their letters to him for 9 gold florins. Will pay any of their servants whom they send. Brussels, 11 Sept. 1521.
Draft, Fr.
11 Sept.
Mon. Habs. 313.
1566. CHARLES V. to GATTINARA.
Has received his letters of the 6th, and those of the Cardinal, advising him not to recall Gattinara. Wishes him, therefore, to remain. He must obtain the letter which the Cardinal was to give him as lieutenant of the King, and send the minutes of the four articles for which the ratification is required. They may be, in the end, to Charles's disadvantage, as all commerce will thus fall into the hands of the English. He must press Wolsey for the powder, which is wanted for Tournay. Is pleased with Gattinara's answer about the letter which the French chancellor wished Wolsey to write. Would rather he persuaded Francis to give battle. Hears that Francis is collecting troops. Is, therefore, reinforcing his army, which he means to join in person as soon as possible. He may give the letters of the count of Carpy to Wolsey at his departure, after taking an authentic copy, and exacting a promise to return them. Sends the decipher of the letters from Portugal, which he finds very perplexing. He had better ask Wolsey's advice. Lalemand will write about the state of the finances. Brussels, 11 Sept. 1521.
Draft, Fr.
11 Sept.
R. O. Mon. Habs. 315.
1567. CHARLES V. to WOLSEY.
I see, by your letters of the 7th, that you wish my Chancellor to remain until it is seen what the effect of your meeting will be. I have great need of him, as I have written both by my secretary and in my own hand; but I will do as you wish, on condition that when I write again to recall him, you do not refuse. I have sent word to him not to come away, and if the French chancellor remains, I do not see why much good should not ensue. I desire credence for the Chancellor, concerning the articles which have been drawn up by your means for the fishery and other matters. Brussels, 11 Sept. 1521. Signed. Countersigned: Lalemand.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: A mons. le card. d'York, legat, primat et lieutenant general d'Angleterre.
12 Sept. Mon. Habs. 316. 1568. GATTINARA to CHARLES V.
Sends Beaurein's letters about the capture of Ardre. The news should be sent to Rome and elsewhere, for, though of little importance, it will produce good effect. Met the French ambassadors yesterday. Wolsey, being ill with tertian fever, sent the bishop of Ely and the master of the Rolls. Discussed the treaty of Noyon. The bishop of Ely came this morning, and said the Cardinal thought they had quite justified the Emperor as to the said treaty; but as the Emperor wishes to gain delay till he sees what his army can do, Wolsey thinks they should go tomorrow at the usual hour, and discuss the treaty of London. The French are not at all ashamed to be found out in falsehood, but defend their untruths tooth and nail (au bec et aux ongles). They keep up a good face, but are evidently astonished at the mode of proceeding, for they would like nothing more than a speedy peace or truce. The Nuncio is always with us, though he has as yet no power. It would be well to send Don Jehan the copy of our powers, that the Pope may send a similar one, and also to ask the Pope what he claims from France for the invasion of Reggio, Parma and Placentia, and the abolition of the Pragmatic. Calais, 12 Sept. 1521.
Fr.
13 Sept.
Calig. D. VIII. 94. B. M.
1569. [FITZWILLIAM to WOLSEY.]
Went today to the King, but he showed me nothing. Went then to my Lady. She said she had a letter from you, but did not tell me much of the contents, except that you asked her help to bring this peace to a good end, of which you might be assured; that you had talked of Navarre, the money of Naples, the homage of Flanders, and the marriage, "which they sticked at;" but whether you or the Chancellor wrote this news I did not hear. She says the Chancellor shall tarry only at your request; but I think, if they were sure of peace they would not care though he tarried there half a year. She was content with your words and demeanour. She says that her son left off fortifying Arde at the King's request, and now the Emperor's army have tried to take it, but "they shall not have it so easily as they might." I said I knew nothing of it; and so she departed. The King's sister then came to me, and told me they had word yesterday from Mesieres, that they need not fear for two months, and they desired nothing better than that the Emperor's folks should assault them, but they were mining, for which also they were prepared. She asked if it were true that all the English scholars in Paris had been sent for. Said I did not know, but that the last time my servants passed that way, the greatest gentlemen's sons were there still. She thanked me, and said she should be sorry to see war with England. I said there was no war, but as great love as could be, and as long as Francis maintained the amity there would be none. She asked me to do what I could to increase the amity; which I assured her I would.
There is no fresh news of Italy or Navarre, but I hear the Swiss made a stop at the Po, as I wrote in my last letter. Whether they be pleased or not I know not. I hear nothing of the King's removing hence. Mons. de Paloys, all the Swiss, and many gentlemen of the court, have gone to the place where the camp will be. I can give you no news but what the King or my Lady tells me, for no one will keep me company; and if any do, they take good heed what they say. Every day the most marvellous questions that ever I heard are asked of my servants by Scots and others. Some say they know the Emperor will have the Princess. Some say the King will make war upon them. Some say the King lends the Emperor money and all he lacks. I told my servants, a good while ago, whatever questions they were asked, to say they knew nothing. Troyes, 13 Sept.
Pp. 2. Entirely in cipher. Mutilated.
Ibid. f. 95. Decipher of the above.
Pp. 3, mutilated.
13 Sept.
R. O.
1570. SIR RIC. WINGFIELD and SIR THOS. SPINELLY to WOLSEY.
Wrote last on the 10th. The Hungarian ambassador, who intended to go to you shortly, now intends to wait here until you return to England, as he thinks you will not give him an answer until you see the King. He will be at Calais three or four days before you leave, unless you wish otherwise. The Emperor told us this morning he had received abstracts of letters from Fitzwilliam to you, showing that "if others be in businesses, the French king is not without." He thinks his large armies exist only in report, and that his pilgrimage to St. Denis is evidence that he is not able to show himself before his enemies. A post has come from Hungary to the ambassador here, contradicting Don Fernando's letter, which stated that Belgrade was taken by the Turks. We enclose a letter of the archbishop of Strigonium, and extracts from other letters. All is in great danger there, however.
By Nassau's letters to the Emperor this morning, we hear that the enterprise of Masieres is hopeful. Brussels, 13 Sept. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: To my lord Cardinal's good grace.
14 Sept.
R. O.
1571. CHARLES V.
Ratification of the treaty of marriage, concluded 25 August, between Margaret of Savoy and John de Bergis on one part, and Wolsey on the other; with a proviso, made on 26 August, touching Mary's marriage portion in the event of a male heir being born to the King of England. Failing such issue, it was agreed that the marriage portion, which had been arranged at 400,000 crowns, should be increased by 600,000 crowns. It is by this agreed between the parties, that this augmentation, though promised to the Emperor to satisfy his subjects, shall not in reality ever be exacted. Brussels, 14 Sept. 1521. Signed and sealed.
Lat., on vellum.
14 Sept.
R. O.
1572. CHARLES V.
Declaration by his commissioners, Mer. de Gattinara, Bernard de Mesa and Gerard de Pleine, that in the agreement made between them and the ambassadors of the King of France, respecting security of fishing, and free transit to Calais for both parties, nothing is therein stipulated or intended to the prejudice of former treaties made between Henry and Charles at Bruges on 25 August last.
This protestation is made by desire of Wolsey, at whose mediation the aforesaid arrangement was concluded between France and the empire. Calais, 14 Sept. 1521. Signed by the three commissioners, and sealed.
Lat., on vellum.
14 Sept.
Mon. Habs. 319.
1573. GATTINARA to CHARLES V.
Yesterday morning the bearer arrived with his letters, and after dinner the treaty of London was discussed so ably, that the French went away quite confounded as at other times, but much more trist. Showed the Cardinal his letters this morning; for which he sends his thanks, and he will ask the French ambassadors if they have heard from their master whether he will pass the articles as they are. The next meeting will be on Monday afternoon. Will send the minute of the ratification when the articles are signed. Does not think matters will go on long enough for the articles to injure him as he thinks. The merchants will not obtain what they want in England, and will return to his countries. Has spoken to Wolsey about the powder and the Portuguese affair. Sends a reply to Lalemand's letter about the finances. Calais, 14 Sept. 1521.
Has forgotten two points which the Cardinal and he have devised. One is, that the Cardinal will say that, seeing that each party accuses the other of breaking the treaties, it is advisable either to return to the treaties or make new ones. Then we will say that the Emperor will not return to broken treaties, but will consent to new ones, providing former disputes be adjusted. This will allow of hastening or delaying matters as they think best. The other point is, that as Masieres is so strong, it would be better to take a truce before the siege is raised. No time must be lost about Tournay, however.
Fr.
14 Sept.
Vit. B. IV. 165. B. M. Ellis, (fn. 1) 3 Ser. I, 256.
1574. CLERK to WOLSEY.
Received Wolsey's and the King's letters for the Pope ... Sept., with twenty-eight copies of the King's book. Delivered the Pope two copies, one bound with cloth of gold, which the Pope liked very well, and opening it read successively five leaves of the proem without interruption. "At such places as he liked (and that seemed to be at every second line) he made ever some demonstration, vel nutu vel verbo, whereby it appeared that he had great pleasure in reading." "His Holiness said that he would not a thought that such a book should have come from the King's grace, who hath been occupied necessarily in other feats, seeing that other men which hath occupied themselves in study all their lives cannot bring forth the like." Clerk wished to read the Pope certain verses made upon him by the King, written with his own hand at the end of the book; and because the verses were written with a small pen, and the Pope is very dull of sight, "I would have read unto his Holiness the said verses." But the Pope, taking the book from him, eagerly read them three times. The Pope approves of its being presented in the consistory, and desires five or six more to deliver them to the Cardinals. He approves of their being sent to divers Christian princes, and likes the King's new title. Is grateful for Wolsey's thanks for his pains taken in enlarging Wolsey's legation. The Pope opened one book, then another, "as men that be loth to depart do often take their leave." On his demanding what news circa principum negotia, (fn. 2)reminded him that the King had complained of the disclosure of certain secrets, and desired him to promise, in verbo pontificio, not to disclose what Clerk would show him on the King's behalf, except to his secret council. Two or three days before the coming of the last courier to Clerk, there was great talk throughout Rome of the conclusion of the new alliance between the Emperor and the King. Expressed his surprise at this to the Pope, as he had desired him to keep it secret. The Pope answered that, as to the disclosure of the alliance lately laid to his charge, the Emperor's ambassador "spake it openly to every man;" and the present rumor in Rome was caused by a letter from a merchant named Jeronimo Beltran, as it was proved on examination of the matter in Clerk's presence. Clerk then informed the Pope, under promise of secresy, that when the King learned how little the French king regarded his treaties with his Holiness and the Emperor, he determined to join them in defence of the Church; that the King and his council had found some difficulty therein, (1) because upon so short a warning it would be hard to assemble a sufficiently large army both by sea and land; (2) because the time of year fit for war would be expired before the army could be transported; and (3) because of the great expense. The council had, therefore, devised that the King should take upon him to be mediator between the Pope, the Emperor and the French king, and so delay setting forth his army till a more convenient season. That, before joining with the Emperor, the King wished to make "some sure knot of alliance" with him; that Wolsey was sent as his lieutenant to Calais chiefly for that purpose; and that the treating of truce was only a color to deceive the French king. That Wolsey, when he came to Calais, in order to have occasion to go to the Emperor, caused his ambassadors to say they had no commission to treat of peace; and that the French ambassadors, supposing Wolsey had gone to the Emperor for that cause, tarried his return in Calais. That Wolsey has established a perfect amity and alliance between the King and the Emperor, by the marriage of my lady Princess. Also declared the form and time when the King will declare himself, and actually enter upon war against France. That as the year is so far spent, the King moved the Emperor to agree to a truce, that in the meantime the King might put himself in readiness; and that the Emperor was agreeable, if the Pope would also take that way. Moved the Pope to send a commission to his ambassadors there (fn. 3) to conclude a truce before Wolsey, stating that Wolsey wished the Pope and the Emperor to continue the wars as long as the year would suffer, and only to agree to a truce if it should be for their profit. Requested also a commission to his ambassadors "ad tractandum et concludendum upon time, form and manner how and when" the Pope, King and Emperor should jointly enter the war against France.
The Pope seemed to be well contented with the above declarations, and gave thanks to the King and Wolsey for attending to the interests of the Church. He said that the letters in cipher from his ambassador, which Clerk had sent him, were not yet deciphered, and therefore desired Clerk to return to him in the morning, when he should have a resolute answer. Showed him that Wolsey was tarrying in Calais for an answer, and desired him to send a special courier with the commission. The Pope replied that he would see his letters, and give an answer on the morrow. Next day the Pope put him off till the morrow, as he expected letters from cardinal de Medicis at Florence. On the morrow the Pope told him that his ambassador had written that the Spanish ambassador, and Clerk would come to him, and show him the (fn. 4) articles concluded between the King and the Emperor. Replied that he had no such articles; at which the Pope marvelled. Showed him that Wolsey tarried on this side the sea only for an answer; and the Pope said the commission should be made in all haste, and "that he would write to his ambassadors to do nothing, for all their new commission, but with your advice."
The Pope said he had almost read the King's book through. He likes it, and commends it supra sidera; and so do as many as have read it. Asked whether he would send a[nswer] to the King, with thanks for his book. He answered that it was b[etter not to send] that, and the bull of the title, till Clerk had openly presented the book to him in the consistory. Desired him to fix a day, that Clerk might make his proposition ready. He said many of the cardinals had left Rome because of the heats, and that the more there were in the consistory at the presentation of the book, the more honor there would be for the King. Said he would get ready with his proposition, and then ask for a certain day; with which the Pope was content. Trusts to be ready in fourteen days, and will send his oration to Wolsey.
"The Pope's holiness should have sent his commission by this courier and" ***
"The joining of the Venetians with the Frenchmen is now no news unto your grace." The duke of Ferrara has set forwards towards two of the Pope's towns, Modena and Reggio;—has 300 lances, 4,000 foot and ten or twelve great pieces of ordnance. For fear of him the Pope's army has withdrawn from Parma, and part come back to furnish the said towns.
Rome, 14 Sept. 1521.
Hol., mostly cipher. Add. Pp. 17, mutilated; wrongly bound together. The leaves, as at present numbered, should be read in the following order:—165, 166, 167, 172, 173, 174, 175, 168, 169.
Vit. B. IV. 140. 2. Decipher of the above.
14 Sept.
Vit. B. IV. 159. B. M.
1575. [ISABELLA SFORZA] DUCHESS OF MILAN to [HENRY VIII.]
Had not sent the horses promised to the King, because she intended to kiss the Emperor's hands, and then to visit her children, the King and Queen of Poland; but, in consequence of the war between the King her son-in-law and the grand master of Poland, she had not been able to prosecute her journey. Had then delayed sending them till the cooler weather came on. Naples, 14 Sept. 1521. Signed.
Ital., mutilated, p. 1.
14 Sept.
Lamb. 616, f. 28. S. P. II. 82.
1576. SURREY to [HENRY VIII.]
Received his letter by Walter Ewstace, with a letter sent to the King from O'Donnell, stating he had waged 3,000 Irish Scots, as Surrey suggested, all of which is untrue. Wages for such a company could not be found in ten of the greatest Irish captain's coffers in Ireland. Surrey has no desire for the Scotch in Ireland. Gives a true account of the affair, the effect of which has really been to prevent O'Nele joining with Surrey with such a power that, if he had come, all the King's enemies in Ireland would have been afraid, and put hostages into Surrey's hands. O'Donnell's promises are not to be trusted. Dublin, 14 Sept.
Hol.
Calig. D. VIII.
150. B. M. St. P. I. 54. Strype's Mem. I. 27.
1577. [WOLSEY to HENRY VIII.]
I find from your letters, that you have lately received three or four from me, of different dates, some of which contained news, requiring no special answer. As to the news written by Fitzwilliam at that time, touching the French king's promise to give battle shortly to the Emperor, I have no doubt Fitzwilliam reported truly what the French king said; but the letters I have received from him this day, and the enclosed news from the Emperor, show that Francis is in no such readiness to give battle as he pretended, and that the other news is far from certain. You know how to beware of those who create false reports for their own advantage, especially when the French king imputes his losses to you; so I think what he says, even on his honor, is not always to be believed, "specially in the experiment of battle, (fn. 5) the loss where[of] ..." I have already given you my advice, after consultation with the council here, as you desired, how to make sure that your subjects may resort to Bordeaux for the vintage with safety. As you are still dissatisfied with the securities we have devised, fearing that [the French] will pay no regard to their promises, and think that the sending of small [vessels] to Bordeaux, or licensing the import of Gascon wine upon foreign bottoms, would raise a murmur, I submit to your judgment that there is nothing for it but for the merchants to remain at home. Nevertheless, if any truce be made at this diet, of which there is good hope, even this will give no security against similar mistrust; and as the French king has not yet any suspicions of England, and continues his Cha[ncellor] here to treat for truce, if, after the proclamations made, the placard for assurance delivered, and the articles confirmed by the princes, none of your ships or merchants shall go to Bordeaux, it will undoubtedly create suspicion that England intends to break with France, and make Francis all the more anxious to hinder the arrangements for the arrival of the Emperor in England, and his passage [to Spain], and induce him to stop your pension. Cannot conceive that Francis will provoke your enmity now, unless you give him cause for distrust. Though many English have been taken at sea by the French, they have always made full restitution, even when the ships belonged to the Flemings; so that, as I wrote before, I think your merchants may go to Bordeaux safely this year, both now and at the second vintage. (fn. 6)
Will do my best about the article for the preservation of your jurisdiction upon the sea, fresh waters and poo[rts]. A substantial article is already made and agreed to by the Chancellors on both sides, which, along with the other for the surety of the fishers, will be confirmed shortly under the great seals of the princes. When I was with the Emperor I labored, as you now desire me, to dissuade him from proceeding personally in the wars, and succeeded in staying him. He now means to make his abode at Lil[le], and if the French king be so strong as to give battle to his army *** he purposes to lay siege to Tournay with 10,000 foot and 2,000 horse, which he has ready, expecting to starve it into surrender. Sends for Henry's signature letters of confirmation of the treaty with the Emperor, to which Wolsey will afterwards attach the great seal, and cause them to be delivered to the Emperor, receiving the like from him. The 25th of this month, the day fixed for the exchange of ratifications, is near at hand.
Draft, corrected by Ruthal, pp. 6.
Calig. E. II. (23.) B. M. 2. First draft of the former part of the same in Ruthal's hand, copied by Strype and Fiddes.
P. 1, mutilated.
Calig. E. III. 8. B. M. 3. Continuation of no. 2. in Ruthal's hand.
Pp. 2, mutilated.
15 Sept.
Mon. Habs. 322.
1578. CHARLES V. to his AMBASSADORS at CALAIS.
Has received their letters of the 9th. Is pleased with what they have done. Wishes them at the earliest meeting to renew all his old claims, that they may be notorious to all Christendom. Has read the decipher given them by the Cardinal. The contents of the decipher given them by Wolsey are far from true. Brussels, 15 Sept. 1521.
Fr., draft.
15 Sept.
Mon. Habs. 323.
1579. CHARLES V. to GATTINARA.
Has received his letters of the 12th, with those of Beaurain, to whom he sends an answer. Has taken his advice about writing to Rome. Approves of his proceedings at the meeting on the 11th, but wishes his ancient claims to be enforced. Sends the ratifications to be given to the Cardinal. Brussels, 15 Sept. 1521.
Fr., draft.
15 Sept.
Mon. Habs. 324.
1580. GATTINARA and others to CHARLES V.
As the Legate has been unwell, met on Tuesday and Thursday in the council house, West and Tunstal appearing for Wolsey. They clearly see that the infractions of the treaties are on the side of France. Received on Friday his letters of the 11th, and showed them to the Legate today. He thanks Charles for consenting to the articles, and for allowing the Chancellor to remain, and is pleased at the news about Italy, Masieres, Mortaigne, and Tournay. Enclose a translation which he gave them of the letters of the English ambassador in France. Do not yet know what charge has been given to the French ambassadors about the fishery. Calais, 15 Sept.
Fr.
15 Sept.
[Calig. E. I. II.?] I. 98. B.M.
1581. FITZWILLIAM to WOLSEY.
"Please it your grace, yesternight the French king sent for me, and showed me he [had letters out] of Italy, from Mons. de Lautrec, who, he saith, w[as at the date of the] said letters within five leagues of Parma, with the noumb[er of] ...e thousand footmen and 2,000 men-of-arms. [And it is a] truth that the Swiss made such a stop at the river of Po [as I wrote] your grace in my other letters; howbeit the French king showed me that no ... hed with the said Mons. de Lautrec. And he saith o[ƒ a certain]tie that the Emperor's army is retired, and he reckoneth surely that ... [y]esterday or this day the same Mons. de Lautrec [would give th]eim battle. And I never heard man give greater praise to [another th]en he giveth to Mons. de Liscue and Pountreme, for he ... d three assaults within six hours, and there were b[ut ... th]ousand footmen within the said town, whereof 4,000 ... ran away out of the same town at the first saulte, and ... there were but 2,350 spears, which with ... all the other assaults. Also he saith the signory of Venice [and the] duke of Farrar give him a great aid. And I assure [your grace he] was not so well disposed to talk with me this fortnight [as he] was this night. And so I asked him of his army in Guienne, and [he told] me the Admiral hath been sick, and showed me how he took his [said] sickness. He said there was a mutinary in Bayonne betw[een the] men of war and them of the town, and he heard t[he]reof, and went [thither] forthwith in post, and so took the same sickness; howbeit he [trusts he] is now well amended. And as for the realm of Navarre he saith he doubteth [not the] Spaniards that were there be reculed, and hath left a count ... Pampilion with 2,000 footmen and 500 jainette[s] ... have fortified it as well as will be for the time; but he saith ... nothing. And the Constable, he saith, is at La Gron, [and] fortifieth the same, but for that the saith he careth not; for wh[en he hath] ones set the king of Navarre in his realm and crowned him in ... he will go no further, but then let him keep his saie[d realm] himself, and he can.
"Also he showed me that the rebels in Cas[tile were] never greater than they now be, and that the Constable and the Du[ke of Nege wer]e fallen out, and were almost at the drawing of their s[words] ... he saycth there hath been in old time two parties ... whereof the Constable is the chief of the one, and the said [duke of] Nege the other; wherefore seeing that old rancor between ... now these variances he reckoneth shall surely grow to some ... [incon]veniences amongst them. Furthermore he sh[owed me the Emperor's fo]lks came again to Arde, when they that were within it ... Boulogne for victuals, and so have won it and burned it. And [he complaineth] thereof, saying that and the King's highness consider [that for his] sake he forbare the fortifying of it, and if it ha[d so been] it had been at this hour in the case they had no[t got it so] lightly as they now have; but he sayeth it maketh no m ... be long to make it so that it shall hold them ... better tack. And in the end he said to me he showed [me] nothing but the truth; and they, he said, went all anothe[r] ... say they will slay all the world; but he bade me to ... and God be indifferent, but that I shall see they shall si[ng another] song or it be long. Also he reckoneth Navarre bu[t] ... army he doubteth never a whit, but maketh ver ... of it, and sayeth that when he shall have all his army age[nst it, he is] sure they will remove, but he will drive them to fight ... in his strength, and not choose, for he will camp between [them and] their victuals. But the number that he shall have is not [such as] he spake of at the first; for he shall be but thirty and ... thousand footmen, whereof be not above 8,000 ... [at] the mo[st], and I think scarcely so many, and two thous[and spears], as he sayeth.
"Also this day the French king departed towards Raines, where [there] shall meet him Mons. de Bourbon and his band, and Mons. ... with his, and all his army; and assune as he hath all his said army a ..., he will raise the siege afore Mesiers, as he sayeth, under suc[h] ... as I have here afore written; but by as much as I [can hear] and learn, he shall not be ready as yet these 12 days [or more]. And at his departing I asked him, as all other ambassado[rs did], what his pleasure was I should do, whether I should j[ourney with him], or tarry with my Lady; and he bade me to come with him to R[aines]. When he was departed, I thought it convenient to sp[eak with] my Lady and bid her farewell; and so I did, and asked her [if she would] command me anything to the King's highness or your grace. And she said ... me, that and I had any word hereafter from your grace to her and the m[atters were] not of great importance, that I should show it to [Robert] Tete, and if it were of great importance s[he de]sired me to come to her myself. And then she s[aid she had wor]de from their Chancellor, who had advertised h[er that your grace had shew]ed him that the duke of Albany prepared ships for his [going to Sco]tland, and that he intended to go shortly, whereof your grace ... he, and spake it very roundly. And she said that whos[oever infor]med your grace thereof did not well, for it is not true, for the d[uke of Alba]ny is in Paris at this hour. And yet she said [the French king] was not bound to let him from going into Scotland. [And t]hen I said to her, 'Madame, is not the King your son boun[d by tr]eaty that the duke of Albany shall not go into Scotland?' [And she sai]ed plainly, 'No.' He promised, she said, to do what [he c]ould to keep him here, as he had done hitherto, whi[ch put] him [to] a great charge; but he was not bound to keep [him] from thence; and so bade me advertise your grace; and so bade me farewell.
"And then I bade the King's sister farewell, who asked me if I [had] not heard of the razing of Arde. And I showed her the French king sh[owed me] of it yesternight. And then she said to me, 'The King i[s now] departed towards his journey, and I doubt not by Go [d's help] but he shall have good speed, for he goeth upon a [g]ode qua[rrel, and] deals justly with every prince, and yet a[ll] princes ... go about to deceive him.' And to that I answered and sa[id], 'My master is in the number of all princes, but I tr[ust you] think he goeth not about to deceive him.' And she au[nswered] roundly again, and said, 'See ye not how the Cardinal [is] ever treating of peace almost to the day of battle? [Our] enemies come still upon us, and Arde, which the King forb[ore to] fortify at your master's request, Englishmen now [have been] present at the winning thereof, and helped to raze it. Wha[t say] ye to that? And as for trust, that is past. The King will make [himself] strong, and trust in God.' And then I answered and s[aid, 'As for the] treaty my lord Cardinal hath gone about in the name of my m[aster, Ma]dame, I made request to the King your brother for the sa[me, in the K]ing my master's behalf, afore any war was begun, or ... and at that time the Emperor was content, and the King your brother [would not] be contented; and if he would have con- sented to it at ... e either declared peace or war many a day a g ... had sustained any harm. And for the long time of ... this peace, there is no man that shall say and prove it [that either my] master's or my lord Cardinal's grace drives [the time on] so long to do the King your brother any displeasure, [but only for] the good will they have to the tranquility of all ... if ye shall speak of any particular person I [think they have] taken this pain more for your brother's sake [than for any] man's living; and if there be any man that will say the c[ontrary, I] shall prove it, as a gentleman, he sayeth untruly. [As for Arde] I cannot say whether there were any Englishm[en at the razing] thereof or not; but I dare say this, th[at it was not] by the consent nor knowledge of the King's highness nor your grace, but [there be] Englishmen in Flanders as be in France; some ban[ished for] murder, some for felony, and some unthrifts that seek th ... [and] if any were there, I reckoned they were such.' And I ass[ured her that] the King my master was no dissimuler, for there was n ... brother, nor no other prince living but and he bare him ... in his ha[nd], that he would be afraid to show it. And t[hen she] began to speak fair, and said she reckoned so in him, [and would] do t[ill] she saw the contrary, which once seen sh[e would] never [tr]ust man after. And then she said to me, 'I pray [you, write] the be[st] of everything ye can, and advertise the King [your] master and my lord Cardinal how the Englishmen were at the pulling [down] of Arde, and desire them to see some punishment [done] upon them, to the intent that men may see it was against [the King your] master's will. And as to the request ye made to the King m[y brother], at the beginning, afore any harm was done, it is true, [for I] know it well, and I think verily the King your master's [council] mean well, but ye see our enemies do the worst they c[an in the] meantime.' And so, with many good words, after that ba[de me fare]well. And I assure your grace this was a thing devised by my [Lady, for she] stode so nigh she might hear every word.
"Also I [pray and] beseech your grace to consider I am a young man [in years], and choleric of complexion; and in case a man should [speak] to me as she did, which so misteli touched the K[ing's honor] and yours, I fear I should have made him such an a[nswer, that] peradventure should have grone that the [King's] grace would not have been contented ... [I] beseech your grace to rid me hence, if it be the King's [pleasure] ... for though the French king and my Lady speak fair with their m[ouths, I per]ceive well what they think in their hearts, and i ... me I beseech your grace I may be instructed [how I sh]all now order myself in going with the French king to the bat[tle, and if] it be the King's pleasure and yours I shall tarry on [not]."
On Tuesday the Queen and my Lady go to Mewse, 24 leagues from Ray[nes], and 10 from Paris.—Troyes, 15 Sept.
Hol., mutilated. Cipher undeciphered. Add.: To my lord Cardinal's grace.
16 Sept.
R. O.
1582. PACE to WOLSEY.
Capata, the Spanish captain, who was lately with the King, showed him some letters written by the French king and his Admiral to Mons. de la Sparowe and others at the time of the taking of Navarre. They were found in La Sparowe's coffers when he was taken prisoner, translated into Spanish and given to the King, who has had them translated into English by a chaplain of the Queen's, and sends you the translation. Though not perfect and eloquent, as the chaplain is not skilled in English, "the effect of the matter appeareth sufficiently, and all the craft, subtilty and colors used by the French king in the enterprise of Navarre are evident in the same; and I think it shall be a good pastime to your grace, to hear the said letters read." Oking, 16 Sept.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: To my lord Legate's grace.
16 Sept.
R. O.
S. P. II. 84.
1583. SURREY to HENRY VIII.
Desires to be recalled. Has held office one year and a half. Suffers so much from the flux that, if he remain this winter, he will lose his life. Many are dead already. Thinks that most of the Irish will shortly come in, but they cannot be trusted. Dublin, 16 Sept.
Hol. Add.
16 Sept.
Mon. Habs.
326.
1584. GATTINARA to CHARLES V.
Has received his letters dated yesterday. Were to have assembled today, when the Cardinal would have made an overture for new treaties, thus giving them an opportunity to renew the old claims; but the French chancellor sent to excuse himself on the ground of a headache. Shall meet tomorrow. After hearing the Cardinal's proposals for a new appointment, will make all his demands in order. By letters to the writer apart, Charles answers what the Cardinal had said about the declaration "des pieces." Be sure he will proceed as slowly as possible; for he says he has no instructions, and though the King has written to urge the necessity of the declaration, Wolsey knows well he can make a better bargain at the fair in England. Will propose it again in the King's words, and say that the Emperor thinks it should take place rather early than late. Advises him to give a captaincy of 50 men-at-arms, vacant by the death of Hyeronime Olivier, to the baron of Somont, nephew of the count of Cariati. He has prepared 14 or 15 horse at his own expense to accompany the Emperor, hearing that he was going to be crowned in Italy. Calais, 16 Sept., after midnight, 1521.
Fr.
Mon. Habs.
325.
1585. CHARLES V. to GATTINARA.
Has received his note enclosed in letters to Lalemand. Is content that he should remain, as he understands matters better than any other, and it will be more convenient to finish matters now than to wait till Charles is in England, as he wishes nothing to interfere with the good cheer there, or until he is in Spain. Wishes for his advice what to do according to the article in the treaty which mentions this. Has established posts at his own expense, which will run at Gattinara's pleasure. Brussels.
Fr., draft.
17 Sept.
R.O.
1586. CHARLES V. to WOLSEY.
The bearer, the ambassador of my brother-in-law, the king of Hungary, has told me of the distress in which his country is, from the invasion of the Turk. Many towns have been taken, and the rest will be soon subdued, if aid is not given by other Christian princes. I have done what I can, considering the war which Francis has so unjustly commenced against me, and am determined to do more when my affairs will allow of it. The said ambassador has a commission to the King and yourself, and has asked me to write to you in his favor. His petition is reasonable and necessary for the preservation of Christendom. Brussels, 17 Sept. 1521. Signed. Countersigned: Haneton.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: A Mons. le cardinal d'York, legat et primat d'Angleterre.
18 Sept.
R. O.
1587. CHARLES V. to WOLSEY.
I am sorry to hear of your illness from my ambassadors, who, however, give me good hope of your recovery, and if there is anything I can do for you in that or any other matter, you have only to write. I thank you for sending me news of yourself so frequently, and desire credence for my ambassadors. Brussels, 18 Sept. 1521. Signed. Countersigned: Lalemand.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: A mons. le card. d'York, legat, primat et lieutenant general d'Angleterre.
18 Sept.
Mon. Habs.
329.
1588. CHARLES V. to his AMBASSADORS at CALAIS.
Has received their letters of the 15th. Thanks them for their assertion of his rights. The news received by the Cardinal from the ambassador in France must not be believed, for he has sure news to the contrary. They must thank the Cardinal for sending it. Sends him a letter desiring credence for them. When the Cardinal gives them extracts of news, they must endeavor to get the dates of time and place. One of his gentlemen will start tomorrow to visit the Cardinal. Brussels, 18 Sept. 1521.
Fr., draft.
18 Sept.
Mon. Habs.
330.
1589. CHARLES V. to GATTINARA.
Has received his letters of the 15th. Is pleased with the means devised by him and the Cardinal for gaining their end. Intends to have Tournay if possible, and thinks there is good hope. He did not state the Cardinal's answer about the powder, and must ask again. It will be the greatest pleasure Wolsey can do for him. Hopes to get nearer to Tournay at the end of the month. He can assure the Cardinal there shall be no mistake about the restitution, for which Charles will give him letters. Has sent despatches to the king of Portugal and Barrosa, according to his advice and Wolsey's. Brussels, 18 Sept. 1521.
Fr., draft.
18 Sept.
Mon. Habs.
327.
1590. GATTINARA to CHARLES V.
Received yesterday evening his letters of the 16th. Have not assembled again, owing to the illness of the French chancellor and of the Cardinal. Richmond told him today that a courier had come from France to Wolsey with letters, saying that the King left Troyes on Monday, and would be today at Reins, and that La Pallice had come to pitch his camp between Reins and Masieres. Has spoken about Castrovillari to Cariati. Calais, 18 Sept., midnight, 1521.
Fr.
18 Sept.
Tit. B. I. 299.
B. M.
1591. PACE to WOLSEY.
The King has received all his letters, and remits the treaties as Wolsey desired. As the King leaves Windsor today, he defers his answer till tomorrow. Okynge, 18 Sept.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: To my lord Legate's grace.
19 Sept.
R. O.
1592. CAMPEGGIO to WOLSEY.
Is overcome with joy at reading the King's "aureus libellus." All who have seen it say that, though so many have written on the same subject, nothing could be better expressed or argued, and he seems to have been inspired more by an angelic and celestial than by a human spirit. We can hereafter truly call him "Lutheromastica." I send also congratulatory letters to the King. You will hear the account of the war in Italy from the King's ambassador and the Pope's nuncio with you. Rome, 19 Sept. 1521. Signed.
Lat., p. 1. Add.
19 Sept.
Add. 21,382.
f. 63.
B. M.
1593. PERRONOT to MARGARET OF SAVOY.
Since writing, accompanied De la Roche, who has been to the Legate on the part of the ambassadors. Found him lying in bed of a tertian fever. He said the chancellor of France had just left him ("a la même heure se partoit devers lui.") The Chancellor had made answer, that his master had agreed to the neutrality according to the articles delivered by the Legate, but had since been so displeased at the demolition of the walls of Ardes that he had changed his mind; nevertheless the Chancellor had written again, and expected an answer in six days. Told the Legate that the French king was all the more bound to the neutrality, because in the treaty of London in 1518 Margaret is expressly comprised on the part of England. With this remark the Cardinal was much pleased, and said he would remember it in speaking to the Chancellor. Thinks it would be advisable for Margaret to write to the Cardinal, and also to Messrs. les Grant Collier and De la Roche. Calais, 19 Sept.
Hol., Fr., pp. 2. Add.: A Madame.
20 Sept.
Calig. D. VIII.
153.
B. M.
St. P. I. 58.
1594. [PACE to WOLSEY.]
The King has carefully read Wolsey's letters, dated the 15th;—of the French King striking battle with the Emperor,—the navy at Bordeaux,—and his desire that the Emperor should not attend the wars in person. He must now coincide with Wolsey's opinion, because he perceives that the French king, "notwithstanding his high promises, hath taken as yet a more religious way than to strike battle, and is gone on pilgrimage to his patron St. Denis!" He somewhat marvels that Wolsey has found so good faith in the French king, touching the sending of ships to Bordeaux, seeing he had written, on the other side of the leaf, against the said King's faith and breach of promise in striking battle with the Emperor. It is not usual with Henry "to mistrust without cause evident, but rather to trust when other men have great diffidence, seeing reason why he should so do."
If Wolsey and other councillors had had as large a knowledge as the King of the jeopardy of sending his navy to Bordeaux, they would have agreed with him. His subjects are cruelly handled, notwithstanding the French king's proclamation, and therefore he cannot trust the French. As for some truce to be had, in hope that peace may be established before the time of the last vintage, the King thinks, on the contrary, that the French king does entertain suspicions, as appears by a clause in Sir William Fitzwilliam's last letters, much marked by the King; sc. that the French king and my Lady his mother trust your grace but little, and that scarce any man will keep him company. The King cannot trust proclamations. When Wolsey has read the translation of the Spanish letters, lately sent him, and considered the French king's crafty dealing in the enterprise of Navarre, he will have less confidence. The King does not think that the French king will, upon suspicion of musters made here, prepare for war, stop the King's pension, shortly due, and impeach the arrival of the Emperor into this realm; for if Francis deny the pension, the King will have just cause to invade him, and in that case the Emperor is bound to pay it. Complains that restitution to his subjects by the French has not been enforced. He is now less than ever inclined to think, as the war is more fervent, that it would be safe for his subjects to repair to Bordeaux.
Imperfect.
20 Sept.
Mon. Habs.
333.
1595. GATTINARA and others to CHARLES V.
The Legate still keeps his room by reason of the fever. This afternoon the French Chancellor went to see him, and found him in bed. He said his master had consented to the articles about the fishery and the other matters, but before sending his letter she heard of the capture and demolition of Ardre, at which he was very angry, and which he thought was done from envy at last year's interview with the king of England. He will write to Francis again, and hopes in five or six days to have ample charge to conclude. He said that there were but few who advised his master to make peace or truce, considering the preparations he had made, and his provocations. The Legate proposes a conditional peace, in case the Pope will consent in a certain time. Send the last news from the English ambassador in France. The Legate had letters of the 4th from the ambassador at Rome, saying that the Pope is badly off for money. A servant of the mayor of Calais has come from Boulogne with news that there are three ships of war before the town, which he heard were waiting for those from Brittany and Normandy to go and pillage the coast of Zealand. Calais, 20 Sept.
Fr.
20 Sept.
R. O.
1596. P. DE VILLERS LYLE ADAM, Grand Master of Rhodes, to WOLSEY.
As he has often experienced Wolsey's kindness, ventures to tell him the state of his affairs. Has reached Rhodes, and if there be anything he can do to oblige Wolsey, will be glad. Hears that the Turkish army has been roughly handled by the Hungarians. In this all who come from Turkey agree. The news respecting the Sophy is not to be trusted. Syria and Egypt submit patiently to the Turk. Rhodes, 20 Sept. 1521. Signed.
P. 1. Add.

Footnotes

  • 1. Owing to the dislocation of the sheets of this letter by the binders, Ellis has printed only the first part of this document, ending where the cipher begins.
  • 2. f. 172.
  • 3. At Calais.
  • 4. f. 168.
  • 5. Over this the word "Parys," is interlined, but where it should be inserted seems doubtful.
  • 6. Second vintage: this is a correction from "Feast of All Saints, at the last vintage."