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3 June.
S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
265. Thomas, Bishop Of London, to Ferdinand and
Isabella.
De Puebla has given him a letter from them.
Thanks them for the honour. Promises to be always grateful,
and to render them any service he can. |
Princess Katharine.
The marriage between the Prince and Princess of Wales is
now concluded, and there remains nothing to be done but that
the Princess should come to England. It is impossible to
describe how much he and the whole nation desire to see her.
In all parts of the kingdom preparations are making for her
festive reception. Is persuaded that the consequences of the
marriage will be most beneficial to both countries. |
Alliance.
The treaty of alliance is concluded, signed, and sealed. He
and De Puebla have done all in their power to have the clause
relating to the exception of the Princes (of the King of the
Romans and of the Archduke) more clearly expressed. But
it was impossible to prevail on such of the other privy counsellors,
as were of a different opinion. De Puebla cannot
be reproached with remissness. Nor does he think that anything
is lost, because the exception is already contained in
the general tenor of the treaty, although not so positively
expressed.—Calais, 3rd of June 1500.
Addressed : "Altissimis et potentissimis principus dominis
dominis Regi et Reginœ Hispaniarum, dominis meis
observandissimis."
Latin. pp. 3. |
6 June.
S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
Treaty of marriage
between Princess
Katharine and the
Prince of Wales.
266. Ferdinand and Isabella to De Puebla.
He has told them in all his letters that the conditions of
the treaty, which he has now concluded with Henry, are much
more favourable to them than the conditions of the treaty which
was concluded some years ago on the same subject. Have
believed that he told the truth. Their Secretary of State
has been unable to judge of the alleged improvements, because
he had never seen the first treaty. They had, therefore,
signed the second treaty. But when beginning to execute its
stipulations, they sent for a copy of the first treaty ; and then,
on comparison, found that the second treaty does not only not
contain any improvement, but, on the contrary, is much less
favourable to them than the first. |
Ornaments, jewels,
&c.
The first treaty settles that the fourth part of the marriage
portion of the Princess of Wales may be paid in dresses,
ornaments, &c. of her person and of her house, and that the
three other parts of it may be paid in gold, silver, and
precious stones. Thus, it is clear that, according to this
clause at least, the ornaments, the gold, and the silver which
the Princess is to take with her were to be received as part of
the first instalment of her marriage portion. The second treaty,
which he called "improved," says that the above-mentioned
ornaments, &c. are to be discounted from the last instalment
only, of the marriage portion. Thus, the second treaty is more
unfavourable to them, because the Princess of Wales would
take those things herself, and a portion of the payment would
thereby be made long before it could be accounted for. |
Time of payment
of the marriage
portion.
The second treaty settles that the first instalment of the
marriage portion should be paid ten days before, or after, the
solemnization of the marriage. This clause must be altered.
It must be said, instead of "ten days after the solemnization,"
"ten days after the consummation of the marriage,"
for some time might still intervene between the solemnization
and the consummation of the said marriage. At all events
one half of the first instalment must be made payable only
after the consummation of the marriage. |
Ornaments.
According to the first treaty, the ornaments, &c. of the
Princess, which were to be discounted from her marriage
portion, were to remain in her possession. The second treaty
leaves this point doubtful, for it is said in it that Henry is
to receive the ornaments, &c. |
Jointure.
In the first treaty Henry binds himself to give to the
Princess of Wales one-third of the revenues of Wales, Cornwall,
and Chester in good towns and manors, &c., which third
part must amount to 25,000, or, at least, to 23,000 scudos.
The second treaty fixes no sum whatever, and it might be that
the towns, manors, and rents assigned to her were worth much
less. She would thereby suffer great losses. |
Wedding.
The first treaty states that the wedding of the Princess
of Wales must take place within one month after her arrival
in England. The second treaty fixes no time at all for
the wedding. |
Valuation of the
ornaments, &c.
In the first treaty it is agreed that the ornaments,
jewels, &c. of the Princess of Wales shall be accepted according
to their just value. The second treaty, however, fixes
that they are to be taxed by sworn jewellers in London,
according to the price current in England, or according to
what the said valuers, or other persons, might be prepared
to give for them. It is not probable that either these valuers
would offer as much as the ornaments and jewels are worth,
or that other persons could be found who would be willing
and able to pay their just value. Therefore it is better to
say that the objects in question must be accepted for their real
value. |
The treaty must
be amended.
As he has pretended that he has introduced many improvements
into the second treaty, it is expected of him that
he will at least repair the errors which he has made. An
additional treaty must be concluded. These demands are so
just, that no difficulties can be expected from Henry. The
Knight Commander of Haro, their new ambassador to England,
is instructed to ask the same things from Henry. He
must conform his line of conduct to that of the Knight Commander.
—Granada, 6th of June 1500.
Addressed : "By the King and Queen, to Doctor De
Puebla, of their Council, and their ambassador in
England."
Spanish. pp. 4½. |
8 June.
S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
267. Henry VII. to Miguel Perez D'Almazan, First Secretary
of State to Ferdinand and Isabella.
Has heard from De Puebla how great services be has rendered
him with respect, as well to the alliance, as to the
marriage now happily concluded. Thanks him, and begs him
to continue his friendship towards him. Promises to show
his great esteem by deeds, if any occasion to do so should
be offered him.—Calais, 8th of June 1500.
Addressed : "To the honourable Miguel Perez D'Almazan,
First Secretary, my most beloved friend."
Latin. p. 1. |
16 June.
S. E. T. c. I.
L. 5. f. 19. and
f. 21. |
268. De Puebla to Ferdinand and Isabella.
Has received all their letters and other papers, which they
sent him by their servant on Palm-Sunday Eve. Has received
the duplicate of the same papers from a servant of Don Pedro
de Ayala on the Eve of Whitsunday in Calais.
Is very much rejoiced to hear that they are contented with
the conclusion of the marriage. Prefers their good opinion
to any advantage in the world. Has deserved it by his disinterested
services. |
Marriage of Princess
Katharine.
Has delivered to Henry the ratification by the Princess of
Wales of her marriage. The King and his Council are satisfied
with it. Has asked a similar ratification made by the
Prince of Wales, but has been told that such a ratification
would be superfluous, because the Prince performed the
act of marriage in his own person. This observation of the
King of England and his Council is right. Has, nevertheless,
pursuaded them to give him a ratification made by the Princeof
Wales. The King has added letters, written in his own hand,
which are enclosed. Thus, all is concluded in a manner than
which nothing could be better. The "glorious marriage" will
be of great advantage to the whole of Christendom. "In truth,
if the Princess come to England, and the business is well
managed, your Highnesses can dispose of England as
though it belonged to yourselves. There is no longer any
reason to fear fraud or cheating, or any other kind of
simulation, and the King and the people will have courage
to undertake whatever your Highnesses might order." |
Alliance.
Contents of the
treaty.
Additions to be
made to it.
The negotiations respecting the alliances met with the
greatest obstacles, and seemed as if they would never come to an
end. There are many counsellors in the Privy Council, who
have taken no part in the former negotiations, and know
nothing of the matter. They discovered a thousand difficulties,
and vied with one another who should find out most obstacles,
especially as often as the King of France was the subject
of their conferences. Has often despaired of the possibility
of coming to any conclusion. The Bishop of London alone was
on his side ; all the other members of the Council were against
him. They said that Spain has been despoiled of none
of her dominions, but England has been deprived of her
French provinces. The assistance which these two countries
are to give to one another must, therefore, as far as Spain is
concerned, be restricted to the defence of what she at present
possesses ; but with respect to England, it must be extended,
and Spain must help her to reconquer what she has
lost. On this plea, the Council was unwilling to sanction
the treaty as it has been concluded with the Bishop of
London, alleging as their excuse that Spain had refused to
ratify it in its previous form. The Council also denied
that Henry has written anything to Spain regarding the
alliances. Assured them that he has received a letter from
Henry in which he approved of the second treaty of
alliance, as it has been concluded by him with the Bishop of
London. Could not show them the letter, because he had
sent it to Spain. The Privy Council complained further that
the King and Queen of Spain never addressed Henry as
"King of England and France." The title given to him in
the letters from Spain is not even "King of England" with
an "&c." Henry at last told his Council not to continue
disputing about words, and to confer only on the
material portion of the treaty. The treaty was read. The
whole Council and he understood it in the following manner ;
viz. that Ferdinand and Isabella and Henry are bound
to assist one another in defending the dominions which
they at present possess against all and every person who
may attack them, without any exception or reservation
whatever. But, on the other hand, neither of them is
bound to give any aid or assistance to the other in an
offensive war. On the contrary, either of them remains at
liberty to succour the Prince who is attacked, or the state
which is invaded, in such offensive war made by his ally.
The Pope, the King of the Romans, the King of France,
and the Archduke are, moreover, excepted with respect to all
such stipulations of the treaty as do not refer to the defence
of the dominions at present possessed. Therefore, the additions
to the treaty which they now command him to procure from
Henry are in substance nothing more than what he has
already obtained from him with so much difficulty. To tell
the truth, thinks that the wording of the treaty, as he has
concluded it, is clearer than the additions which they now
desire to be made. The case is as follows :—They wish to preserve
their liberty "to assist the aforesaid Princes in defending
their states, but not in other wars." Those are the words of
the desired additions. The title of the King of England,
however, is "King of England and France ;" and he possesses
at all events a very clear right to Guienne and Normandy.
As the intended addition to the treaty does not contain the
words "in defending the states and dominions which they at
present possess," the English might say that they have a right
to conquer Guienne and Normandy, and that in such a case
Spain is not at liberty to assist France in defending these
provinces. The treaty, as it now stands, speaks, on the contrary,
very clearly, since it limits the obligation to the defence of the
states which the parties at present possess. They are at liberty
to succour the King of France, because they have excepted
him as a brother, and even more, because they have excepted
him (as a son), together with the Archduke. The privy counsellors
said that it would be very inconvenient to make a
declaration in a public document which so clearly prejudices
their claims on France. They even pretend that their honour
and authority, as well as that of the King of England,
would thereby suffer. For the nation thinks that the King and
Queen of Spain are obliged now to assist England against
France, and it would produce a very bad impression if
it were positively stated that they bind themselves to
help France against England. It is quite enough to reserve
this liberty to them, without making a display of it. The
King and Privy Council know that they do not ask
these additions except for the purpose of framing the
treaty with England and the other Princes in the clearest
manner possible. But this end was already secured by the
treaty as it was first concluded. Thinks it, therefore,
advisable to leave it unchanged. Sends the treaty, signed by
the King and sealed with his seal. Encloses letters from
Henry, the Bishop of London, and the Latin Secretary,
on the same subject. If, however, in spite of all that has
been said, they insist on having the additions incorporated in
the treaty, they must write a courteous letter to Henry, and
their demands will be acceded to. Those, at any rate, who
oppose them must do so in secret. Has made the greatest
exertions of which he is capable in arranging this matter.
Is ready to undo his own work if he is commanded to do
so, and to "suffer martyrdom." |
Ratification of the
treaty of alliance.
Henry said that, although they had ratified the treaty
in presence of only three great personages, he would send
them a ratification of it, made in the presence of his whole
Court. As he said, so he has done. This treaty of alliance
is a most solemn and important thing, as much so as the
treaty of marriage. The clauses of it are a master-piece of
diplomacy. |
King of Portugal.
Confesses to have committed an error in not excepting the
King of Portugal. The English wished to do it, and he
opposed them because the present King of Portugal had not
yet entered into an alliance with Spain. Will now include the
King of Portugal. |
King of Scots.
Told Henry that they wish to include the King of
Scots in their alliance, because the marriage between him
and the Princess of England is now concluded. The King of
England said that he also regarded the marriage as concluded,
"if the Princess Doña Margaret (fn. 1) should not, as she has
already done, prove an obstacle to it." The King of Scotland
is included.
Henry begs them likewise to include the King of Denmark
in their alliance. Entreats them to write a letter to
Henry, or to him, on the inclusion of the Kings of Scotland
and Denmark. Has written a letter to the King of
Scots, by the Doctor now sent from England to Scotland,
and informed him that they, as well as the King of England,
include him in their alliance like a common son. Told the
King of Scots that the Princess Katharine is to come to
England towards the end of the summer ; and that great
festivities are preparing in the whole kingdom for her reception.
Wrote finally that they entirely approve of his decision
to marry the Princess Margaret, eldest daughter of Henry,
and that they are as much, and more, pleased with it than if
he had been going to marry their own daughter. Made this
observation because the King of Scots suspected him of
opposing the marriage.
If the King of Denmark were included in their alliance,
it would not be necessary to negotiate another treaty with
him. The friendship of Denmark is of some value to them,
since it would prevent their subjects from being pillaged at
sea by subjects of the King of Denmark.
The final settlement of this business has been somewhat
delayed for various reasons ; as, for instance, because the
Prince of Wales has been absent in the most remote portions
of the kingdom ; also because the Great Seal is preserved in
Westminster ; the King and the Queen have gone to Calais ;
the Latin Secretary was suffering from ague ; the third son
of the King had died ; and he himself was suffering great
pain. |
The Turks.
Henry greatly praised their intention of sending a fleet
against the Turks, but added that, although he was on very
intimate terms with Venice, the Venetians had said nothing
to him about their great need. Henry does not seem to
be inclined to take part in the expedition against the
Turks.
Asked Henry VII. what opinion he had of DCCCLXXXI. (fn. 2)
He answered that he disliked his proceedings. All the Princes
of Christendom were put to inconvenience by France. As,
however, the coming of the Princess of Wales to England is
so near at hand, this matter may be settled afterwards. |
Coming of the
Princess Katharine
of England.
Has shown Henry their letter in which they promise
soon to send the Princess of Wales to England. The King
and the whole nation are delighted at this news. Festivities
such as never before were witnessed in England are preparing,
not only in England but also in Calais, where a great
tournament is announced. The articles for it have been
sent to the Kings of France and Scotland. The Cardinal is
destined to perform all the marriage ceremony.
Henry begs them to write and say, as soon as the Princess of
Wales embarks, what personages of note are to accompany
her, and in which port she is to disembark. Southampton
seems to be the most suitable for this purpose. They would
render a service to Henry if they would send their letters
by two couriers, one of whom might travel in the most
speedy manner by land, and the other go by sea, in a fastgoing
vessel of about twenty tons. |
The ladies who are
to accompany the
Princess must be
handsome.
"The King and Queen wish very much that the ladies who
are to accompany the Princess of Wales should be of gentle
birth and beautiful, or at least that none of them should
be ugly." |
Servants of the
Princess.
Has delivered their letters to Henry and to the Queen,
who were much flattered by the manner in which they speak
of the servants who are to accompany the Princess of Wales.
The King had debated the matter in a Great Council. The
answer was, that the King and his Council wished them to send
as small a number of servants with the Princess of Wales
as possible ; for she will be attended and obeyed and loved by
the first noblemen and ladies of the kingdom. They had
sent a great number of servants with the Archduchess to
Flanders, and the consequences had been of a very unpleasant
character. But whatever they decide in this respect will be
approved in England. As far as those persons of high rank
are concerned, who are only to accompany the Princess on
her voyage to England, and afterwards to return to Spain,
there cannot be too many of them. The English will
spare no expense in treating them with the greatest
hospitality. |
Meeting between
Henry and the
Archduke Philip
at Calais.
Sentiments of
Philip towards
Henry.
On Tuesday in Whitsuntide the Archduke had an interview
with the King of England at Calais. They met in
a church in the fields. The Queen of England also went to
see the Archduke. The King and the Archduke had a very
long conversation, in which the Queen afterwards joined. The
interview was very solemn, and attended with great splendour.
Both Princes had great honour shown them. They treated
one another like father and son. There could not be a more
desirable friendship in the world for both. On his return
from the church, Henry promised to communicate very
agreeable news to him respecting this meeting. But as the
young Prince of England was dead, it might be that these
communications would be somewhat delayed. Some French
captains had come from the neighbouring towns to Calais,
who indulge in all kinds of conjectures about the interview, and
the coming of the Princess of Wales to England. Spoke for
some time with the Archduke. He is a much more agreeable
and discreet Prince than his detractors will allow. The Archduke
told him that he considered them as his true father and mother.
The King of England had told him to do so. The Archduke
said that he loved Henry, and regarded him as his protector.
Henry overheard these last words, and, much flattered
by them, replied that "he would be for ever the debtor of the
Archduke, who had had so much confidence in him as to
come to a place where he was in his power. |
Embassy sent to
Henry at Calais by
the King of
France.
The internal peace of the kingdom is perfect. It is so
great that the King and Queen left England, on Friday the 8th
of May, for Calais, and until two days beforehand no one knew
of their intended journey. The King and Queen have already
stayed thirty-nine days at Calais. It is said that they will
return to-morrow to England. "As soon as the King of France
heard that the King of England was in Calais, he sent an
honourable embassy to him. The ambassadors brought
50,000 francs as the first instalment of this year, and besides
these the other pensions which France pays to certain
Englishmen. I can assure your Highness that I write
the truth. It was not a merely simulated payment." |
Letters sent from
the Archduchess to
King Henry.
The Archduchess had sent the Bishop of Malaga with courteous
letters to Henry before the interview at Calais took
place. Received the enclosed letter from the Bishop before
he came to the town. (fn. 3) Showed the letter to Henry
who sent the Prior of St. John and other personages of
authority to receive the Bishop of Malaga. Went with them.
The Bishop of Malaga remained four days in the town, and
was at liberty to see the King and Queen as often and when
ever he liked. Encloses copies of the letters which the
Bishop of Malaga took back to the Archduchess, and other
letters. |
King of Navarre.
It is said in England that the King of Navarre is staying
with them. Would be sorry if any of the fortresses which they
now possess in Navarre were to be given back to the King of
Navarre. "These will be places of great importance, as I have
"already written more in detail, if your Highnesses can
conclude the CCCCXXIII (marriage) of Spain." (fn. 4)
Henry is very glad to hear that the King of Portugal
has come to Spain, in order to marry the Infanta Doña Maria.
Has given their letters which have arrived, addressed in
blank, to the Duke of Buckingham, the Earl of Suffolk, the
Earl of Surrey, the Earl of Essex, and the Prior of St. John.
The English esteem such letters from them more than the
pensions from the King of France. Begs them to send ten or
twelve more letters of the same kind. But they must also
send him credentials to great personages in England, in order
that he may treat with them in their name. |
De Puebla's reasons
for not accepting
the match
offered to him.
Thanks them for not having answered the letter of
Henry respecting their consent to the marriage which
the Queen of England had offered to him. The King will
write again on the same subject. Begs them to put off the
answer again. Does not like to accept the match, because
he fears they would not have so much confidence in him if he
were married by the Queen of England to a rich English
lady.
Has already asked them to give him a certain power of
jurisdiction over Spanish subjects in England. The necessity
for such a power will be even greater, as many Spaniards are
to come to England in consequence of the marriage of the
Princess of Wales.
Begs that at least the third part of his salary may be paid to
him in London. In payment of the two other parts of his
salary he would be satisfied with some situation for life.
Letters of exchange on London can be had from Pantaleon or
his brother Agostin, or from Martin Centurion and others.—
Calais, 16th June 1500, at the moment of sailing to England. |
Marriage of the
King of Scots.
P. S. (fn. 5) — The Doctor who was sent as ambassador to
Scotland has just returned, and, before he saw the King, told
him that the marriage of the King of Scots with the
Princess of England is concluded without any condition, and
exactly in the manner in which Henry had desired. Has
been told by the ambassador that this result is due, in great
part, to his advice and to his letter to the King of Scots.
Cannot go and see Henry, because he has already taken
leave of the King and Queen.
Addressed : "To the very high and very powerful Princes
the King and Queen ... (fn. 6) Lords."
Spanish. pp. 23. |
16 June.
S. E. T. c. I.
L. 5. f. 26. |
The treaty of
alliance.
269. De Puebla.
A paper containing two columns, one placed opposite the
other. The first column is headed, "This is the clause as I
concluded it. If it be read in connexion with the other
clauses of the treaty, it will be found that it is even better
than what your Highnesses now desire." The text of this
column is a literal copy of clause 3 of the treaty of the 10th of
July 1499, by which the Pope, the Kings of the Romans and
of France, and the Archduke, are excepted.
The second column is headed, "This is what your Highnesses
desire. If you compare the one column with the other,
you will find that they are identical." The text of this
column is the same as that of the first column, except that
the words are added, "and each of the contracting parties is
at liberty to assist the said Princes in defending their kingdoms
and dominions."—No date. No signature.
This paper is now enclosed in the letter of De Puebla of
the 11th of August 1505. But it has no relation
whatever to that letter. On the contrary it seems
to be evident that it belongs to the letter of De
Puebla of the 16th of June 1500.
Latin. pp. 2. |
| S. E. T. c. I.
L. 1. |
270. De Puebla to Henry VII.
Sends him an exact copy of two clauses of the treaty of
alliance which he has concluded with Ferdinand and Isabella
(on the 10th of July 1499), and ratified (on the 10th of May
1500). The copied clauses are clause 4 and clause 9, which
settle that free intercourse and commerce are to be allowed
between England and Spain, and that the treaty shall be promulgated
in all towns and seaports within six months from
its date. Signed "De Puebla."—No date.
Latin. pp. 2. |
| S. E. T. c. I.
L. 5. f. 22. |
Requests made by
De Puebla.
271. De Puebla to Ferdinand and Isabella.
What he begs the King and Queen of Spain to do is :—
1. To send the Princess of Wales to England as soon as
possible, accompanied by a great many persons of high
station and dignity.
2. To do what he has requested concerning Don Pedro de
Ayala.
3. To write a letter approving the inclusion of the Kings of
Scotland and Denmark in the alliance.
4. To send him a commission to decide the disputes between
Spanish subjects in England.
5. To pay him his salary.
Indorsed : "Memoir of what I ask from the King and
Queen."
Inclosed in the letter of De Puebla to Ferdinand and
Isabella of the 16th of June 1500.
Spanish. Holograph. p. 1. |
| S. E. T. c. I.
L. 5. f. 20. |
272. The Bishop of Malaga to De Puebla.
Will be in the town at six o'clock in the evening. (fn. 7) Informs
him of his coming in order not to appear unpolite, and
not with the intention that the King should be acquainted
of it. His servant will wait in the inn.—Dunkirch, 1500.
Addressed : "To the illustrious Doctor de Puebla, ambassador
of the King and Queen our Lords."
The note is written in a very strange jargon made up
of Spanish and corrupt Latin. It is included in the
letter of De Puebla to Ferdinand and Isabella, of the
16th of June 1500.
Holograph. 10 lines. |
June (?)
S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
The Spaniards who
live in England ;
their conduct.
273. De Puebla to Ferdinand and Isabella.
The Spaniards who reside in England, and those who come
and go, live without law, like people in a castle on the borders
of two kingdoms. They acknowledge no authority whatever.
His interference in their disputes with one another is therefore
of little avail. But their internal disunions would be of no
great importance, if they only did their duty in forwarding
despatches and messengers, and in other things which it is
better not to mention. Henry has asked him to write to
them on this subject. Begs them, therefore, to issue a commission
to him as their ambassador, intrusting him with
criminal and civil jurisdiction over the Spaniards in England.
Incloses a draft of the desired commission. Signed "Doctor
De Puebla."—No date.
Indorsed : "To their Highnesses."
Spanish. p. 1. |
| S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
De Puebla endowed
with jurisdiction
over the Spaniards.
274. Ferdinand and Isabella to De Puebla.
Give to De Puebla, their trustworthy and truthful ambassador
in England, power to compound or decide according
to law, all civil and criminal causes concerning Spanish subjects
residing, or staying, in the dominions of King Henry,
with all the rights and emoluments that belong to civil and
criminal jurisdictions. All Spanish subjects are ordered to
obey his orders and decisions under heavy penalties.
Draft written by the Secretary of De Puebla, and inclosed
in his letter to Ferdinand and Isabella. No date.
Spanish. p. 1. |
| S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
275. Ferdinand and Isabella to Henry VII.
Have learnt how much he wishes that De Puebla should be
entrusted with civil and criminal jurisdiction over Spanish
subjects residing in, or coming to, and going from England.
Have, therefore, issued such commission to their said ambassador.
Draft written by the Secretary of De Puebla. Inclosed in
the same letter.
Latin. p. 1. |
| S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
276. Ferdinand and Isabella to Henry VII.
Have been informed by De Puebla of the inconveniences
which arise from the circumstance that he has no jurisdiction
over the Spanish merchants and other Spaniards residing in
England. Have entrusted to him such jurisdiction, because
they believe they shall be rendering thereby a service to
King Henry.—No date. No signature. No address.
Draft. Spanish. p. 1. |
16 June.
S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
277. De Puebla to Miguel Perez Almazan.
Has received three letters, and two short letters in cipher,
from Ferdinand and Isabella, a letter from him to the King
of England, a separate copy of the last letter, thirteen letters
from Ferdinand and Isabella to English Lords, a power of
the Princess of Wales, a ratification by her, approved by
Ferdinand and Isabella, two ratifications of the treaty of
alliance, and all the other papers mentioned in the letters,
except the duplicate of which he speaks in his letter. Has
written a long letter to him a few days ago.
Has written a long letter to Ferdinand and Isabella, and
has given an account in it of all that has happened during the
last few days. The same servant who takes this letter carries
the letter to Ferdinand and Isabella, in which are enclosed
the treaties of alliance, signed by the King of England and
sealed with the Great Seal of the kingdom, together with all
the other papers which are necessary for the definite conclusion
of the whole business. It has been very difficult to carry on
the negociations, because the King and Queen were occupied
with preparations for their journey to Calais, and the Prince of
Wales was in Wales. He will easily imagine all the delay
that has been caused by it, if he consider that it is often impossible
to cross the channel for twenty and sometimes for thirty
consecutive days. |
Preparations making
for the reception
of the Princess
of Wales.
There remains nothing to be done now except that the
Princess of Wales should come to England. Great preparations
are being made to receive her.
Has seen the articles for the tournament which a French
King-at-arms took to the King of France. They are written
in the French language. Encloses a copy of them. The same
articles written in English have been sent to the King of Scots,
and given to the Archduke. They are solemnly proclaimed at
Calais. Cannot get copies at Calais of the programme of the
other festivities. That of the city of London is in the press.
Has told Henry who he is, how much Ferdinand and
Isabella confide in him, and what a prominent part he has
taken in the last negotiations. Henry has written a letter
to him. If he should answer, Henry will be glad to see the
letter. |
Personal affairs of
De Puebla.
Has seen with great pleasure that Ferdinand and Isabella
have ordered the Treasurer Morales to send him a bill of
exchange for the sum of 200,000 maravedis (fn. 8) as a portion of
the salary due to him. But neither that nor the other bill
of exchange for 200,000 maravedis, ordered in Madrid, has
come to his hands. Is in great pecuniary difficulties. Begs
that his salary may be paid. "When I was corregidor I was
always offered what I had no right to accept, and asked to
do what was forbidden, but I could never obtain what was
due to me by right. The same thing has happened to me in
England. You know already how much the King of England
urged me to accept a bishopric, offering to procure for
me all such dispensations from the Pope as might be necessary.
I could not prevail on myself to accept it. When the
King saw that all his persuasions were in vain, he and the
Queen spoke to me for a long time on Twelfth-tide Eve
about my personal affairs. They asked me to accept a rich
match from them. If I had accepted either of these offers,
it would have placed me in a different condition from that
in which I am at present." Has not thought it right to
accept the rich match without the permission of Ferdinand and
Isabella. The King of England has written twice to Spain on
this subject, but no answer has been sent back to England.
Has taken the protracted silence for an answer, and is satisfied
with it. For a marriage with an English lady would, to a
certain amount, have denaturalized him, and the King and
Queen of Spain would no longer have had the same confidence
in him. Other Spanish ambassadors have acquired
riches ; he has been forced to sell his little inheritance. Has
been obliged to write to his son Fernan Rodriguez to sell
his property for two-thirds of its value. Has had to write to
Punthallon to lend him money at any amount of interest.
Asks him to speak to Ferdinand and Isabella in his behalf, and
to beg that at least one-third of the salary due to him should
be paid. This third part amounts to 1,100 ducats. (fn. 9) Instead
of the remaining two-thirds he would fain accept a rent for
life.
It would be convenient to send two couriers to England as
soon as the Princess of Wales embarks.
Hopes that he will be treated as he has deserved by his
industry and fidelity.—Calais, 16th June 1500.
Indorsed by Almazan : "To me, from Doctor De Puebla,
16th June 1500."
Spanish. pp. 7. |
June.
S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
278. Earl Of Suffolk, Earl Of Essex, Lord Harington,
Lord William Devonshire, Sir John Peche, and
William De La Pencre. (fn. 10)
Beg of Henry VII. permission to hold royal jousts and
tournaments, and to perform other feats of arms at Westminster,
in honour of the marriage between the Prince of
Wales and the Princess Katharine of Spain, which is expected
to take place towards the end of August next. Challenge
all gentlemen, of whatever nation they may be, and whatever
weapon they may use, to answer them in the lists on the fifth
day after the solemnization of the said glorious marriage.
Only the great coat of mail and buckler are prohibited.
Twenty-three articles containing the regulations of the
jousts follow.
No date. No signature.
Indorsed : "These two papers are to be given to the Secretary
Almazan."
French. Copy. pp. 11. |
20 June.
B. M.
MS. Eg. 616. f. 13. |
Coming of the
Princess Katharine
to England.
279. Henry VII. to Ferdinand and Isabella.
De Puebla has delivered to him their letters, from which he
has learnt how welcome to them had been the intelligence
that the nuptials per verba de prœsenti had been concluded
between their children. Has also learnt from De Puebla
that they have resolved to send the Lady Katharine to
England at the end of the summer, which tidings have been
very pleasant to him. Would not conceal that not only
would the marriage be a happy thing in itself, but that it
would be productive of no ambiguous advantage to his
subjects. Has also received the instrument signed by their
hands and sealed with their seals, confirming the treaty of
peace and amity between him and them. On his part has
also given the like confirmatory letters for them to De Puebla
in presence of the Cardinal of Canterbury and others of his
nobles. Desires to be commended to the Lady Katharine
and their Highnesses.—Canterbury, 20th June 1500.
Addressed : "To the Serene and Mighty Princes Ferdinand
and Isabella, by the grace of God, King and
Queen of Castile, &c. &c."
Latin. p. 1.
Printed in Gairdner's Letters and Papers, I. 119. |
27 June.
S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
280. De Puebla to Ferdinand and Isabella.
The Latin Secretary has never been visible since Henry
has returned from Calais to England. It has, therefore,
been necessary to despatch all the letters which are enclosed
here during the sittings of the Council. They ought to preserve
them together with the treaty of alliance. Has concerted
the enclosed letter with the Bishop of London. He is
the president of the commission for negotiating the treaty. |
Letters of the
Prince of Wales.
Has opened the letters of the Prince of Wales. Wished
to see whether he had written concerning the ratification as
he ought to write. Thinks the letter will be found satisfactory.
Expects hourly other letters from the Prince of Wales. Begs
they will forgive the opening of the letters, because he had
done it with the best intentions. |
Interview between
King Henry and
the Archduke.
Henry told him that the interview with the Archduke
had no other object than to show to the world their paternal
and filial love, and to give something to guess at to their evilwishers. |
King Henry's intentions
respecting
the Prince and
Princess of Wales.
Henry has intimated to him further that his intention
is to keep the Prince and Princess of Wales, during the first
year of their marriage, about his person and at his court. The
number of persons who are to accompany the Princess may be
determined accordingly. The King had spoken once more on
this subject just when the courier was ready to leave. The
reason why he did so was because the almoner of the Princess
had written saying that she would be accompanied by an
incredibly large number of servants.
They may order the treaty of alliance to be proclaimed in
Spain as soon as they like. Its proclamation will take
place in England within six months, or earlier if they like.
—Canterbury, 27th June 1500.
Addressed : "To the very high and very powerful Princes,
the King and Queen our Lords."
Spanish. pp. 2½. |
| S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
King of the
Romans ; his plans.
De Puebla's conduct
in respect to
the marriage of the
Princess of Wales
to be strictly
watched.
King of Scots.
281. Ferdinand and Isabella, Instructions to their Ambassador. (fn. 11)
Do not doubt that Henry, in accordance with his virtues, and
especially his faithfulness, will fulfill his promises respecting
the marriage between the Prince and Princess of Wales. But it
may be that the King of the Romans is endeavouring to undo
the marriage in order to conclude another marriage for the
Prince of Wales ; and it is not impossible that the King of England,
from certain considerations, might enter into the plans
of the King of the Romans. There is nothing positively
known on this subject. The King of England has said nothing
which could justify the suspicion that he intends to break off
the marriage which has been already agreed upon, and the
ceremonies of which have been actually performed. Nevertheless
it is necessary to warn him. Neither Doctor De
Puebla, nor any other person in the world, must know anything
about their suspicions or about these instructions. He
must be continually on the watch. As soon as he hears anything
to justify what they suspect, or as soon as he observes
that negotiations contrary to the marriage of their daughter
with the Prince of Wales are being carried on, he must write
to them, and do all in his power to frustrate the negotiations.
Are satisfied with what De Puebla has hitherto concluded with
Henry. But as De Puebla is said to be entirely under the
influence of Henry, and to do nothing but what he wishes,
he must watch him also every day during his stay in England,
and see whether he does his duty. He must, in all his conversations
with the King, with De Puebla, and with all other
persons, speak of the marriage as a business perfectly concluded
and sure, and say that preparations for the journey
of the Princess to England are already making. He must
always call her Princess of Wales. If he hear anything
implying a doubtful intention on their part to marry their
daughter to the Prince of Wales, he must most decidedly contradict
it. In a secret letter he must inform them whether
there is anything said in England about another marriage, and
whether De Puebla be a faithful servant of theirs. He is
expected to write the whole truth, without, however, letting
De Puebla suspect that he is writing about him. He must,
whilst he remains in England, inform himself what kind of
person the King of Scots is, to how much his revenues amount,
and acquaint himself with all he can about Scotland.
Neither date nor signature seems to be written in the
hand of the Knight Commander of Haro.
Spanish. pp. 2. |
29 June.
S. E. T. c. I.
L. 2. |
Meeting between
King Henry and
the Archduke.
Report of a marriage
between the
Prince of Wales
and Princess
Margaret.
282. Fuensalida, Knight Commander of Haro, (fn. 12) to Ferdinand
and Isabella.
Has been told by Frenchmen, when only two journeys
from Paris, that Henry and the Archduke had met at Calais.
Travelled therefore as fast as possible in order to overtake the
King in that town. Has been by no means easy in his mind ;
for, whenever he asked the people, whether they knew for
what purpose the meeting of Henry and the Archduke had
taken place, the unanimous answer had been, "to concert the
marriage between the Prince of Wales and the Princess Margaret."
Each time that this distasteful news was told him
he made greater haste on his journey. Reached a town which
is called Boulogne. It is the last town in the dominions of
the King of France, and only ten leagues from Calais. Was
there told that the King of England had already crossed the
channel, and that the Archduke was staying in a town which
they called St. Omer. The Bastard of Cardona is captain of
Boulogne, and some Spaniards live with him. Asked them
the news. They answered that, according to common report,
the marriage between the Prince of Wales and the Princess
Margaret was already concluded. Went to St. Omer, which
place was one day's journey out of his way, in order to ask
the Archduke whether the said rumours were true. Found,
on his arrival at St. Omer, that the Archduke had gone to
Bruges. Neither the Castilians whom he met at St. Omer,
nor the inhabitants of that town, knew anything of
what the Frenchmen had told him. Was, on the contrary,
asked by one of them, whether the Princess of Wales
would come to England during the course of the summer.
The person who asked this question had been in Calais when
Henry was staying there, and had heard talk of nothing
except of the great festivities and rejoicings which the English
were preparing for the reception of the Princess of Wales.
The English were exceedingly desirous to see her in their
country.
Proceeded, somewhat more at ease, to Calais, where he arrived
on the 20th of June. Crossed the channel next day to Dover.
Was told there that Henry was staying at a town which the
English pronounce Conturbel. (fn. 13) Went there ; but heard, on
entering the gate of the town, that the King was just leaving
it by the opposite gate in the direction of London. Sent to
ask whether the Spanish ambassador was with the King.
They told him that he was not with the King, but had already
gone to London. Continued his journey to London next day
in the expectation of finding the King already there. But
Henry had not gone the direct way, because he wanted to
visit another town near the sea.
Arrived in London on the 25th of June. Pedro de Ayala
had gone to Flanders. Went therefore to see De Puebla.
Henry, being immediately informed of his arrival, sent word
that he would be at Greenwich (fn. 14) , four miles from London, on
Friday, the 3rd of July, and would like to hear the message
from his beloved brother and sister in Spain.
"That is all that has happened to me to day. I will write
to your Highness respecting whatever I may think worthy of
notice hereafter." |
Conversations with
De Puebla.
Spanish servants
of the Princess
of Wales.
Has seen De Puebla, who is very suspicious, and has tried
in different ways to discover the real object of his mission.
Told him that he had come, while on his way to Flanders, to
visit the King and Queen of England and the Prince of Wales,
in order to tell them, in the name of his sovereigns, what
had happened in Granada. De Puebla was not satisfied with
this answer, but made a most searching inquiry into his
secrets (fn. 15) , and asked him directly whether anything touching
the marriage was to be transacted. Not wishing to increase
the distrust of De Puebla, told him that he was to speak
to Henry about the arrangements for the household of the
Princess of Wales, because it was desirable to know his
wishes concerning the number and quality of the servants
who were to remain with the Princess in England. The
English had made great difficulties, especially with respect to
the male servants. They had even refused to hear mentioned
the office of a Lord High Steward, of a Lord High Gentleman-in-Waiting,
of a Lord Treasurer, and of many other lower
officers of the Princess of Wales. They wished to have as
small a number of Spanish servants with the Princess as
possible.
De Puebla told him at different times that the English
especially abhorred a Lord High Steward (mayor-domo mayor),
oftentimes repeating the word "High Steward." He had
said, in the course of their conversations, "For God's sake
do not mention anything that looks like delay or change
in what has been concluded."
Answered that such was not the intention of the King
and Queen of Spain, for their will was to fulfil all that had
been concerted when the proper time for its fulfilment should
have come.
Begged De Puebla to explain why nothing was to be
mentioned that looked like a change in the conditions consented
to? Some changes may be reasonable. Had the
English changed their mind, or was any such thing likely
to happen? |
Princess of Wales.
Her coming to
England.
De Puebla said, he did not know whether the English had
already changed their mind ; but, judging by their national
character, such a thing might easily happen. They doubt
whether the Princess of Wales will ever come to England. If
any new arrangements were proposed to them they would
think that it had been done in order to put off the voyage of
the Princess to England. The treaties are very well concluded,
and all the clauses of them are advantageous to Spain. They
must remain as they are, especially as Henry is persuaded
that the Princess of Wales will land in England in the course
of the summer. Great preparations are making for her reception.
But, on account of the slowness with which the preparations
for her voyage are made in Spain, it is more
probable that she will arrive in November than in the
course of the summer. No vessels are as yet retained for her
voyage.
Has appeased De Puebla in as far as it was reasonable to
appease him. Said that they had always intended to fulfil the
treaty. His remarks concerning the vessels were unfounded.
It is not necessary to retain the fleet which goes to Flanders,
because Spain possesses enough vessels to send the Princess of
Wales to England without disturbing the commerce of her
subjects, especially as they are not obliged to send the Princess
before the Prince of Wales has completed the fourteenth year
of his age. It is not even known in Spain when that will be
the case. Supposed that the Prince of Wales completes the
fourteenth year of his age towards the end of September. The
orders for the departure of the Princess will be given at that
time. There would be nothing in the matter to cause surprise,
if the Princess did not arrive in England before the end
of November. She is not an ambassador or a courier, who
must go in full haste.
De Puebla seemed, after this conversation, somewhat, and
even much more reasonable, than before ; but it is still a
difficult thing to do what they want to have done. |
Strange behaviour
of King Henry.
Asked De Puebla whether he had observed any change of
mind in Henry, or whether the King of England suspected
them. De Puebla said that he was not aware of it ; only
on one occasion had the behaviour of the King seemed
strange to him. When the marriage was contracted perverba
de presenti, the King had kept the document relating to it
back, and when asked to send it to Spain had always given
evasive answers. He did not like to speak out his real meaning.
That was when he went to Calais, and during his stay in that
town.
De Puebla asked whether they would like Henry to send
ambassadors to Spain, in order to accompany the Princess.
Answered that they would be pleased with whatever the
King of England thought it right to do. De Puebla asked
them further, whether they would not be angry if he went
together with the English ambassadors. He could best
explain the whole matter. Did not like to give him any
advice on this subject. De Puebla said that he would go, if
the King of England asked him to do so. |
Preparations
making for the
reception of the
Princess.
Has spoken with a great many Spanish merchants in
London. All say that great preparations are making for the
reception of the Princess. The English generally are desirous
to see her in England, although there are many who doubt
whether she will come so soon. Asked them from what
source these doubts sprang. They said because it was believed
delay was advantageous to Spain.
As for the interview of Henry and the Archduke at Calais,
nobody can tell the subject of it, or what conclusions were
arrived at. De Puebla gave only vague answers, saying that
both Princes were very well satisfied with one another, and
entirely reconciled.—London, 29th June 1500. |
Pestilence in
London.
P.S.—Many persons are dying in London from a pestilence
which has just begun its ravages. The disease is not very
severe yet, but it is expected that the mortality will increase.
The pestilence might, perhaps, be a good pretext.
Indorsed : "To their Highnesses."
Spanish. pp. 9½. |