Venice: September 1516 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 2, 1509-1519. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1867.

'Venice: September 1516', in Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 2, 1509-1519, (London, 1867) pp. 319-325. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/venice/vol2/pp319-325 [accessed 19 April 2024]

September 1516



Sept. 2. Misti Consiglio X. v. xl. p. 88, tergo.	768. The Council of Ten and Junta to the Government of Cyprus.
	On the 6th February 1513, Sir Thomas Docwra, Prior of St. John's of Jerusalem, lent 1,100 ducats to Andrea Badoer, ambassador in England, by bills of exchange, dated London, presented to the Signory.
	Fra Paulo de Colla, ambassador from the Order to the State, now on the eve of departure, having the said bills in his possession, demands payment on behalf of the Prior aforesaid.
	Agreement made with Fra Paul for restitution of the sum thus:—The Prior to send his agents to Cyprus, who are to receive from the Government, at their own risk, wheat or barley to the amount of 1,100 ducats, at the current price on the island at the time of consignment. Should the agents refuse the wheat and barley, ready money to be paid.
	Ayes, 22. Noes, 4. Neutrals, 0.
	[Italian, 21 lines.]
Sept. 7. Original Letter Book, St. Mark's Library, Letter no. 89.	769. Sebastian Giustinian to the Signory.
	The King and Cardinal had been absent from London for many Mays. Had ascertained that the English ministry had made no remittances since the month of June, when they sent 60,000 ducats, which down to the middle of August had not been disbursed either to the Emperor or to the Switzers, but remained payable to the order of King Henry. Was also assured that these moneys would not be expended, unless a powerful army were raised for the expulsion of the King of France from the Milanese, which would thwart the Signory's endeavours to recover Verona. Since receiving the news of the agreement between France and the King Catholic, had learnt that within eight or ten days' time an event would transpire utterly at variance with that agreement. Had also learnt that, after the articles of the new League had been signed by the Pope, the Emperor, and the King Catholic, the Cardinal insisted that the King Catholic should bind himself to supply King Henry with provisions for money, and not oppose him if he should invade France. This induced the King Catholic to make an agreement with the King of France, and the Cardinal was therefore greatly blamed by the Lords.
	Was of opinion that the Cardinal's threat of defending Verona for the Emperor was a mere menace, devoid of reality, to cause Venice to desert France.
	Certain military commanders, some of the first in England, had been lately sent to Tournay, in consequence, it was said, of 300 French spears having been quartered near the city. Others said that the people of Tournay had rebelled because the King had ordered the construction of a strong citadel there; which rebellion was attributed by the English Lords to the King of France.
	London, 7th September 1516.
	[Italian, 2¾ pages, or 69 lines.]
Sept. 10. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxii. p. 474.	770. Giovanni Badoer, Venetian Ambassador in France, to the Signory.
	Amboise, 30 August.
	The Lady Margaret sought to injure the most Christian King with the King of England, because the Duke of Longueville, recently deceased, held certain castles in Flanders belonging to her, for the purpose of indemnifying himself for expenditure incurred during the late war.
	[Italian.]
Sept. 10. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxii. p. 475.	771. Andrea Rosso, Venetian Secretary at Milan, to the Signory.
	Dated 7 September.
	The three Gray Leagues had held a Diet, and three envoys from the Diet at Zurich inquired what pay they received from France. The Gray Leagues referred them to the Diet, which was to be held eight days after Holy Rood Day [26 September] and which would be attended by the English ambassador.
	At the Diet of Zurich, on St. Bartholomew's Day, the five cantons answered the English ambassador, that they would not go to war at present, and moreover that they were against the Emperor and in favour of France.
	[Italian.]
Sept. 10. Sanuto Diaries, v. xxii. p. 476.	772. The Same to the Same.
	In the Diet held at Zurich on the 24th August, the cantons refused to make a league with the English ambassador, on the ground that England was at too great a distance (è tropo longi).
	[Italian.]
Sept. 12. Misti Consiglio X. v. xl. p. 97, tergo.	773. The Council of Ten and Junta to the Ambassador Giustinian, in England.
	Have received his letters of 29th July, and 10th and 11th August, narrating his conferences with the Cardinal, touching the proposal to join the new league and agreement with the Emperor. Are of opinion that neither the King nor the Cardinal will make further mention of the matter, on account of the treaty of Noyon. King Francis will not now attempt to make himself lord of Italy, and take the kingdom of Naples. Trust that King Henry and the Cardinal will confirm the peace, so that all Christendom may remain at peace and attend to the Turkish expedition, which is well worthy of being aided by the treasure and forces of such a great and powerful King as his Majesty of England. The Pope has renewed and confirmed the peace, and formed a closer alliance with France. Trust to recover Verona. Wish for nothing but their own, and at all times and under all circumstances will be ever most obsequious towards the King of England.
	To use respectful language to the King, avoiding matters which might irritate, or make him break forth into such expressions as by Giustinian's letter of the 29th they see were uttered, and always endeavouring to truncate words (troncar parole), allowing some few to pass without answer or rejoinder. Give him the same instructions with regard to requesting the King not to send money to the Emperor, as, besides its being labour in vain, it might serve rather to encourage him to do it, than to prevent it.
	Commend him greatly for what he has done.
	Ayes, 26. Noes, 0. Neutrals, 0.
	[Italian, 54 lines.]
Sept. 22. Original Letter Book, St. Mark's Library, Letter, no. 90.	774. Sebastian Giustinian to the Signory.
	News had come from France and Flanders that the Venetians had obtained Verona on fair terms; but at the same time letters were received from the Emperor, dated the 10th of September, enclosing others from Mark Anthony Colonna, which stated that he had made a sally with the garrison, and repulsed the French and Venetian armies, after they had effected a junction under Verona. Had heard from the Papal nuncio (Chieregato) that Colonna had repulsed the lansquenets who were with the French and Venetians, and had taken succours into Verona; that the King of England had brought over to his side nine of the Swiss cantons, which were previously in agreement with France; and that the Pope had made a league with the King of England. The nuncio apologized for having previously assured him of the Pope's neutrality, and said he daily expected the arrival of a Papal nuncio named Julio Latino, who was coming to conclude the league, and would remain in London a fortnight.
	Was also informed by Chieregato that the King's secretary (Andrew Ammonius) had told him that two months thence the King would cross over to Calais. Replied that it was unlikely he would cross in the depth of winter, because of the bad weather and the scarcity of provisions. The ambassadors from the Emperor and the Switzers not only solicited but were importunate for money from the King, who had determined to send a small quantity. The ministry were about to send 10,000 ducats to the Emperor, who intended to come shortly to England, for his travelling expenses, and 5,000 ducats a month had been assigned for his board.
	Scarcely credited this news, but believed Chieregato had informed him of it by desire of the English ministry, who perceived at last that the King Catholic had failed them, and that the Switzers were in league with France, whilst the Pope preserved neutrality. Regarded the announcement that King Henry intended to cross the Channel as a fiction arising from the prevailing suspicion that the King of France would attempt the recovery of Tournay, and many said of Calais likewise. Supposed it was communicated to him in the belief that he would inform the Signory, and the Signory King Francis, who would be deterred from those enterprises, knowing that he would find England prepared not only to resist them, but to act on the offensive.
	On the 21st an herald arrived from King Francis, and visited him (Giustinian) next day. He said he had brought letters from King Francis to King Henry, inviting him to enter into the treaty between King Francis and the King Catholic, and specifying the terms of the marriage, and concerning the kingdom of Naples, the pension, &c. This statement had removed the suspicion that the herald was come to demand the surrender of Tournay. The herald also stated that Venice was included in this league, and that King Francis was at liberty to defend her, if attacked.
	Would endeavour to dissuade the Cardinal from the threatened invasion of France.
	London, 22nd September 1516.
	[Italian, 3¾ pages, or 102 lines.]
Sept. 23. Original Letter Book, St. Mark's Library, Letter no. 91.	775. Sebastian Giustinian to the Signory.
	Had visited the Cardinal that day, and was graciously received. Imparted to him the news contained in the letters which had just arrived from Badoer. Showed him a copy of the letter from Constantinople, forwarded to him by the said ambassador (Badoer). The Cardinal inquired whether he had received any reply from the Signory to his last communication. Replied that there had not been sufficient time for one to arrive, and that the matter required mature deliberation, especially as the French and Venetian forces were at that time besieging Verona. The Cardinal told him to warn the Signory to be cautious, lest the French King should take Verona for himself, and said he had good reason for saying so, though he would give no explanation. Said that, owing to the compromise between the Kings of France and Spain concerning the kingdom of Naples, which was to remain to the latter on payment of an annual pension, it would be more easy to unite the princes of Christendom against the Infidel, which was very necessary, considering the preparations of the Great Turk, as appeared by letters from the [Venetian] bailiff [at Constantinople]. The Cardinal, being much exhausted by other business, said he would discuss the matter more at length on a future occasion.
	Had heard, since his last, that the sum remitted [to the Emperor] was 15,000 ducats, not 10,000. The appointment of Latino as Papal nuncio seemed to have been revoked.
	London, 23rd September 1516.
	[Italian, 1¾ page, or 40 lines.]
Sept. 23. Misti Consiglio X. v. xl. p. 103.	776. The Council of Ten and Junta to the Ambassador in France.
	Have heard from Giustinian in England the proposal made by King Henry and Cardinal Wolsey for the Signory to join a league which they said was about to be made; and to reconcile the State to the Emperor. Acquaint him also with their reply.
	Ayes, 25. Noes, 0. Neutrals, 0.
	[Italian, 36 lines.]
Sept. 23. Misti Consiglio X. v. xl. p. 103, tergo.	777. The Council of Ten and Junta to the Ambassador Giustinian, in England.
	Received yesterday his letters of the 17th and 19th ultimo, containing, in addition to the last proposals, those newly made by the Cardinal touching the truces between the Emperor and the Signory. Is to reply according to their letters of the 12th September. Approve of the prudent form in which he had proceeded.
	[Italian, 25 lines.]
Sept. 24. Misti Consiglio X. v. xl. p. 107.	778. Andrea Badoer.
	Motions made in the Council of Ten and Junta concerning the salary of Andrea Badoer, Knight.
	Put to the ballot that by authority of this Council it be carried and declared that the aforesaid “Ser” Andrea be credited at the rate of 100 ducats a month, during the whole period of his service in England, according to the decree of this Council, dated 30 January 1509, notwithstanding a decree of the Senate that he was to receive 70 ducats only. The officials of the New Accountant's Office to ascertain whether “Ser” Andrea constantly kept the amount of servants and horses specified in the decree whereby he was elected; and should any omission be discovered, a proportional deduction to be made.
	Ayes, 19. Noes, 9. Neutrals, 0.
	Motion lost, a majority of three fourths being required. Immediately afterwards the following motion was made:—
	That the Act passed in the Senate on the 11th September 1510, to the effect that the nobleman Andrea Badoer, knight, then ambassador in England, was thenceforth to receive 70 ducats a month, be repealed.
	Ayes	19	18
	Noes	11	10
	Neutrals	0	0.	Kinsfolk withdrew.
	[Italian, 37 lines.]
Sept. 26.	Motion as above made for the second time.
	Ayes	19	19
	Noes	11	10
	Neutrals	0	0
	Not carried, as a majority of two thirds was required. Kinsfolk withdrew.
	[Italian, 5 lines.]
Sept. 27. Misti Consiglio X., v. xl. p. 112.	779. The Council of Ten and Junta to the Ambassador in France.
	To convince his most Christian Majesty that the period of three months (fn. 1) can only be a fraud and deceit, as confirmed by the letters addressed to the Cardinal of Sion, which Monsr. de Lautrec intercepted and deciphered, whereby it is evident that after having sent Courteville (fn. 2) to France, they are sending Sion to England. This delay is proposed for the mere sake of plotting designs, in which certain other persons will not fail to aid them; and should they even propose the consignment of Verona for some time to the Catholic King, the ambassador is to say, as from himself, that four or six days would be too much, as on the expiration of a month there would no longer be any hope of obtaining the place.
	Ayes, 28. Noes, 0. Neutrals, 0,
	[Italian, 62 lines.]
Sept. 30. Original Letter Book, St. Mark's Library, Letter no. 92.	780. Sebastian Giustinian to the Signory.
	Receipt of a missive from the State, and of newsletters from Constantinople. Went to the King at Greenwich. Congratulated him on the safe return of himself, his consort, and his sister. Found with him two ambassadors from the Emperor and two from the Catholic King, who had a long audience, after which he (Giustinian) communicated to the King the news respecting the galleys, and the other contents of the letters above mentioned. The King listened graciously, but said: “It is really time for you to cease any longer molesting the Emperor about Verona; you will not be easy till you provoke the whole world against yourselves.” Replied that the State sought merely to recover her own. The King said Verona would cost them thrice as much as it was worth. Replied that if the King were to send no money to its occupants, it would speedily be recovered by Venice. The King rejoined that he could not do less than aid the Emperor, who was his confederate. As to the galleys, the King said the safeconduct for them should be granted, and called the Cardinal, with whom he desired him (Giustinian) to confer.
	Returned to London with the Bishop of Durham, who stated that on that day, the 28th, they had received letters from the Emperor's court, dated the 17th Sept., affirming that Verona was safe, and no longer in fear of siege, and that in three days a considerable Imperial army would be there to raise the blockade entirely. The ministry appeared greatly elated by this news, especially as they had been almost certain, a few days previously, that Verona was in the hands of the Venetians.
	Went to the Cardinal on the 29th, according to appointment, but could not see him.
	Friar Dionisius Memo, the organist of St. Mark's, arrived in London a few days ago. He brought a most excellent instrument with him at great expense. Presented him to the Cardinal first, who desired to hear him play in the presence of many Lords and virtuosi. They were much pleased with him. He afterwards visited the King, who sent for him immediately after dinner, and made him play before his Lords and all his virtuosi. He played to the incredible admiration of everybody, especially of the King, who is well skilled in music, and of the two Queens. His (Giustinian's) secretary was present, who explained to the King how much favour Memo enjoyed at Venice. The King had made him chief of his instrumental musicians, and said he would write to Rome to have him unfrocked out of his monastic weeds, so that he might only retain holy orders, and that he would make him his chaplain. A royal chaplaincy was an honourable appointment and very profitable.
	London, 30th September 1516.
	[Italian, 3 pages or 78 lines.]