Venice: October 1532

Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 4, 1527-1533. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1871.

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'Venice: October 1532', in Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 4, 1527-1533, (London, 1871) pp. 355-368. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/venice/vol4/pp355-368 [accessed 25 April 2024]

October 1532

Oct. 2. Sanuto Diaries, v. lvii. p. 242. 811. Carlo Capello to the Signory.
The King will commence his journey on Friday next, and will go by water to Canterbury. On the —th instant, he is to be at Boulogne with the most Christian King, and the greater part of the Court has already crossed; he will remain but a short while; he takes only 500 horse with him on account of the movements in Scotland, which become daily more intelligible.
A herald has come from the King of Scotland defying his Majesty to war. King Henry replied that being his nephew and a King, and considering him his son, he does not wish for war with him, but is not afraid, nor does he doubt whilst defending himself, to be able to injure (offender) his enemies. The cause of this stir is said to be that King Henry refused him the body of his father, which is unburied at Richmond. The King of Scots demanded it earnestly, and insisted on the expulsion from England of the Scottish emigrants (foraussiti). To this King Henry would not consent. The King of Scots has a large force of troops on the Borders, including the Earl of Angus, husband of the Queen, who is the English King's sister, and mother of the King of Scotland, who shows himself averse to the divorce and in favour of Queen Katharine, and he is supposed to be agreed with the Emperor. He has expelled all the English from his territory, and issued a proclamation for all the men of Scotland from the age of 16 to 60 years to be ready within 20 days with arms and victuals for the performance of 60 days' military service.
This intelligence has been received by letters from Scotland, and from two of the attendants of the Papal Nuncio there [Silvestro Dario], who are now in London. The King of Scotland will have with him 10,000 Irishmen from that part of Ireland which the English call Savage-land (Selvagion) whose inhabitants yield obedience to the Pope, and lately captured or plundered some ships belonging to the King of England.
It is said that the people of Dantzick (di Dans) are in arms, and in league with the King of Scotland; and in Flanders, Queen Maria [Queen Dowager of Hungary] has raised 10,000 infantry on the borders of France, and of the places [in Pieardy] held by the King of England, and has sent 2,000 foot soldiers to Gravelines.
It is believed that the divorce will take place, and that this King will marry the Marchioness, to the discontent of the majority.
London, 2nd October. Registered by Sanuto, 22nd November.
[Italian]
Oct. 5. Sanuto Diaries, v. Mi. p. 28. 812. John Scott.
Reading in the Senate of the letter from Marco Antonio Venier. (Note by Sanuto.)
A letter came from our ambassador at Rome, dated 30th September. He writes that one John Scott has arrived there on his way to Jerusalem. He professes to remain many days without eating. The Pope placed him with a guard; he remained 13 days, praying the whole time, without taking any food: on their expiration the Pope gave him leave to restore himself. He is coming to Venice with a brief of recommendation from the Pope, for his voyage to Jerusalem, The letter was read in the Senate.
[Italian.]
Oct. 4. Sanuto Diaries, v. lvii. p. 194. 813. Zuan Antonio Venier to the Signory.
All the ambassadors came hither in advance of the most Christian King, who departs today to Abbeville, awaiting the passage of the King of England across the Channel to Boulogne, where the first interview will take place.
Whilst his Majesty was in Britanny, an ambassador from Scotland arrived to negotiate the marriage of the most Christian King's eldest daughter to the King of Scotland; he was ordered to Tours, and the plague being there, he waited at Angers, and at length they desired him to come to Paris. Lately this ambassador used high language, saying his King would no longer procrastinate, and will make terms with the Emperor, who offers him two Princesses (donne) one of whom is supposed to be his niece, daughter of the ex-King of Denmark; and he said that if the most Christian King delayed in order to have the opinion of the King of England, the King of Scotland would then not take the French Princess, should any words or clause of consent be inserted [in the contract] by King Henry.
There are advices from the Emperor's court, dated 13th September, purporting he is sure of victory, as the Turks must retreat. King Francis is much perplexed on this account, and goes protracting the interview, at which it is thought he will merely look to his own affairs without making any stir. The Lord Steward was to quit Chantilly today, on his way to Calais.
Paris, 4th October. Registered by Sanuto 7th November.
[Italian.]
Oct. 6. Sanuto Diaries, v. lvii. p. 29. 814. John Scott at Venice. (Note by Sanuto.)
This morning came to the Doge, Dom. John Scott, who, according to the letter from Rome, remains many days without eating. His Serenity sent him to the Chiefs of the Ten. He was accompanied by Ser Michiel Morosini, to whom he brought a letter of recommendation from Cardinal Pisani. He cannot speak (Italian ?); is about 50 years old; long hair, red face, rather fat; is wrapped round the body in a very sorry cloth garment; and holds in his hand a book of offices (uno officio) on which his eyes are bent. He has with him a Scot, who can speak nothing but Scotch, and no one understood him. On his departure from Rome the Pope gave him 12 crowns for his journey hither. He exhibited a certificate “di uno di Scozia,” how that he (Scott) had passed three months without eating anything, during which interval he communicated twice. There is also a certificate from Rome, to the effect that he had been locked up in a chamber for 10 days without taking any food. The Chiefs of the Ten then sent for the cellarer of S. Giorgio Maggiore, and desired him to keep the two Scots for 10 days, after which they will be sent to San Spirito, (fn. 1) and to other friaries, until a safe passage to Jerusalem can be procured for them. Many persons went to see him (John Scott).
[Italian.]
Oct. 11. Sanuto Diaries, v. lvii. p. 89–90. 815. Marco Antonio Venier to the Signory.
Last night the Imperialists received news of the capture of Modon on the 25th ult., by Prince Andrea Doria, who hopes to make progress in the Morea.
The Pope says that the King of Scotland will make war on the English King.
Rome, 11th October. Registered by Sanuto 16th October
[Italian.]
Oct. 14. Sanuto Diaries, v. lvii. p. 243. 816. Carlo Capello to the Signory.
On Friday the 7th instant the King left Greenwich and crossed to Calais. It is said he goes to terminate the divorce, and espouse Marchioness Anne; but one of the doctors who wrote in favour of his Majesty, declares that he will take for wife the daughter of the most Christian King, and give the Marchioness in marriage in France, so as to unite himself with the Pope and satisfy the Emperor; and for this purpose the Bishop of Langres, who had been to the Emperor, came hither. A week ago King Henry sent another ambassador in haste to his Majesty (King Francis?).
The Papal ambassador tells me this interview is not about the divorce, and still less for the marriage of the Marchioness; they will not assume the Pope's office (non si vorano far si stessi Pontifici) but will negotiate matters of extreme importance. He (the Papal ambassador) said, “The Signory would do well to have a secret agent with them, to bear in mind the League of Cambrai.” I replied thanking him, but said that the Signory merely employed ambassadors.
A few days ago, on the northern coast of this island, the sea stranded a dead fish of marvellous size, 90 feet long. Sends a letter addressed to Dom. Polydore Vergil “de quì” [in London], together with the engraved likeness of this fish. (fn. 2)
Three weeks since there appeared here a comet, which is still visible, two hours before daybreak, to the eastward, its tail extending towards the south, five yards in length; well nigh in the form of a luminous silver beard. (De qui già xx. giorni, di quì è aparso una Cometa, ch'ancor a pare do hove inanzi giorno in le parte di Oriente, e stende la coda sua, verso mezo dì, di longeza, di hraza 5, in forma qvasi di una lunga barba, e d'arzento splendulo) (fn. 3)
On the morrow of the King's departure from Greenwich, the people here declare that the tide flowed for nine hours, the water having nearly reached Greenwich Chapel; a thing never hitherto seen or heard of. The English consider these things prodigies.
Nothing more is known about the affairs of Scotland. King Henry is mustering considerable forces for the Scottish borders, and here every night diligent guard is kept.
The plague increases daily, and makes everybody uneasy.
London, 14th October. Registered by Sanuto 22nd November.
[Italian.]
Oct. 17. Sanuto Diaries, v. lvii. p. 238. 817. Zuan Antonio Venier to the Signory.
On the 15th, when at Boulogne with part of the ambassadors, the rest being all lodged within eight leagues of that place, a messenger came from the Lord Chancellor Legate [Duprat], saying that the English King had left the ambassadors on the other side of the Channel; so King Francis, on his part likewise, wished the ambassadors not to attend this interview, King Henry having sent him word to this effect. In the course of tomorrow King Francis would wish them all to be at Abbeville, 18 leagues from Boulogne and 25 from Calais.
The English King crossed the sea to Calais on the 11th of this month, with from 1,500 to 2,000 horse. The Lord Steward went to pay his respects to him, and was received with great honour; and on that day he dined with his Majesty.
The most Christian King arrived within three or four leagues from Boulogne three days ago, according to the arrangement made and on the 25th or 26th the evening entertainments (fn. 4) will be at an end.
From discretion (modestia) the ambassadors have determined not to send their secretaries to the Court. Will endeavour to learn the news and transmit it.
Montreuil, 17th October. Registered by Sanuto 21st November.
[Italian.]
Oct. 24. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 13. 818. The Doge and College to Carlo Capello, Venetian Ambassador in England.
The day before yesterday Count Guido Rangon presented himself to the Signory with letters of credence from the Emperor in whose name he informed us that Sultan Solyman had retreated to Constantinople, abandoning the expedition against Germany. His Imperial Majesty proceeds through the Signory's territory to Mantua, on his way to Bologna, where he purposes kissing his Holiness's foot, and will then embark at Genoa for Spain.
The Senate had elected four of our chief noblemen as ambassadors, to meet and accompany him.
Is to acquaint the King with this, and also that last night a galley arrived with letters from their Captain-General on the sea, dated Cephalonia 27th September, informing them that at mid-day on the 21st, the Imperialists stormed Coron, after having battered it during four consecutive days; they cut to pieces all the Turks in the place, and the castle surrendered immediately. It was said there [at Coron] that the Imperialists would attack Zonchio, Patras, and Lepanto; but some persons are also of opinion they will lay siege to Modon.
[Italian.]
Oct. 27. Sanuto Diaries, v. lvii. p. 195,196. 819. Marco Antonio Venier to the Signory.
The Pope being cured of the gout, went this morning to congratulate him on his convalescence. Was told by his Holiness that he had received letters from Dover, dated the 15th instant, informing him that the English King had arrived there to cross over to Calais.
Rome, 27th October. Registered by Sanuto 7th November.
[Italian.]
Oct. 28. Sanuto Diaries, v. lvii. p. 354. 820. Conference between Henry VIII. and Francis I., at Boulogne and Calais (fn. 5).
To the praise and eternal glory of God our Creator and of our blessed Saviour and Redeemer Jesus Christ, and in order to obviate the injuries, conspiracies, and machinations which the Turk, the ancient enemy and adversary of our holy faith, has of late devised against Christendom, we, Francis, by the grace of God Most Christian King of France, and Henry, by the same grace, King of England, Defender of the Faith, Lord of Ireland, although we believe firmly and indubitably that notwithstanding the reports and scandalous things heretofore circulated against us, yet nevertheless do the Princes and other persons of honour and virtue and of good and loyal conscience consider us as due princes and kings, holding the position held by us, and following the footsteps and virtues of our ancestors, as becoming the greatest princes of Christendom, and that we have constantly, with our whole hearts desired, and still desire, amongst other worldly wishes (tra quests cose mortal) to hazard not only our forces and power, but also our own persons and lives for the defence and conservation of the Christian religion, and to resist the injuries, forces, and acts of violence perpetuated by said Turk, our common enemy and adversary. Of this good and valid testimony has been afforded by the offices already performed by us to resist said Turk; but wishing nevertheless more than ever to give sure proofs of our will and intention, so that the other Princes and potentates who share them may be enabled to join us, and by mature consent see what assistance and succour each of them can afford, becoming their means, for the purpose of providing and arranging in those parts on the borders of Christendom apparently most in danger from said Turk, in case he determine to pursue yet farther the undertaking commenced by him, or attempt hereafter another fresh invasion of said Christendom, we have deemed it well, and more than necessary, to meet together, with the intention of negotiating certain articles relating to the conservation and defence of said Christendom, according to what we see and know to be necessary, and such as the matter requires, and notifying them subsequently to the Princes and potentates. And although the principal cause and foundation of our said conference was and is, as already stated, to provide and arrange for averting the evident peril and detriment which might be incurred by said Christendom; and as by the advices received by us since we met, announcing retreat of said Turk, for which with our whole heart we must give thanks and praise eternal to God, our Creator; it seems that at present there is no great need to make farther provision. Nevertheless as possibly said Turk, although he has removed to a certain distance, may have formed some fresh plan of attack, or may purpose invading Christendom on some future occasion, we, not choosing to lose the opportunity for which we have held this interview, but rather to avail ourselves of it to provide against what may happen hereafter; on this account, we, as Most Christian, and we, as Defender of the Faith, have resolved and agreed together that in the case aforesaid we will prepare and put together a very large and powerful army, supplied with every requisite, to prevent said Turk from advancing farther to the detriment of said Christendom; and to do this we purpose assembling our forces, to the amount namely of 80,000 men, comprising 15,000 cavalry, with such a train of artillery and amount of ammunition, as also of other things necessary for said army, which we shall pay monthly, and these forces to be mustered at such time and place, as may seem fit to us, and as we shall know to be expedient. And we will march in such direction as shall seem to us the most fitting to meet said Turk, and oppose him with all our power; nor will we separate our said forces without the will and consent one of the other; and with regard to the victuals which will be required for our said army on its march, we will give such orders and make such provision that there will be no lack thereof, nor any deficiency, for the which things we will defray the necessary cost. And as we cannot take with us the requisite stores nor provide them on the line of march, unless we are conceded passage and succour of said victuals, as notorious to everyone, we have therefore agreed together that should this come to pass, we will send persons express to the Princes and potentates, both of Germany and the Imperial cities, as also to the Italian towns through which it will be requisite to pass, and in like manner to the parties most liable to detriment through the coming of said Turk, earnestly requesting them to concede passage to our said army, both going and returning, through their countries, towns, and signories, and that they will give us security to this effect, and moreover provide us with the requisite victuals, everything being paid for at a reasonable rate; all which we firmly believe that the said Princes and potentates will grant us freely. And we have moreover this firm hope and trust in them that as it is a question of so holy and necessary a work, and which affects the entire common weal and defence of the whole Christian religion, and in like manner the establishment and security of their states, that besides granting said victuals and passage, they will not fail to ponder, and, should this matter come to pass, to conjoin and unite their forces together with ours, remembering also that possibly said Turk may become so powerful in Christendom that the aforesaid forces mustered by us, without the assistance of the said Princes and potentates, may be insufficient to produce the effect desired and intended by us, so that said Christendom would remain at the mercy of the common enemy, a thing which would be of such great importance, as anyone of good understanding may imagine and conjecture. All the which things here aforesaid and written, and each of them, we promise respectively one to the other, in good faith and on the word of a king and on our honour, to keep and inviolably observe without diminution; in testimony whereof we have signed the present agreement with our hand, and caused it to be sealed with our seal. Given at Calais on the 28th October 1532, in the year of the reign of us, Most Christian, the 18th, and of us, Defender of the Faith, the 24th.
Registered by Sanuto 18th January 1533.
[Italian.]
Oct. 30. Deliberazioni Senato (Secreta), v. lv. p. 41 tergo. 821. The Doge and Senate to the Venetian Ambassador and Vice-Bailiff at Constantinople.
The Emperor had quitted Vienna on his way to Spain.
The interview between the Kings of France and England will take place.
Ayes, 179. Noes, 1. Neutrals, 4.
[Italian.]
Oct. 31. Sanuto Diaries v. lvii. p. 266. 822. Zuam Antonio Venier to the Signory.
All the ambassadors being here [at Abbeville] on the 18th, I wrote from Montreuil, that on the 17th the Papal Nuncio and the Imperial Ambassador caused us to remain here at Abbeville an insult to the powers we represent, we being put to cost and in confinement whilst the former ambassadors are sent for to Montreuil and Boulogne, and while others are allowed to attend the congress, which shows they are treating against our princes. (fn. 6)
On the 11th instant the English King crossed the Channel, and landed at Calais with from 1,500 to 2,000 horse. He brought with him the Marchioness Boleyn, his favourite, with some twenty maids of honour (damigelle). The most Christian King remained hunting in the neighbourhood of Boulogne until the 19th, when he entered the town. On the 20th he went to Marquise, and on the afternoon of the 21st proceeded towards Calais, and midway met the English King, and both their Majesties, with mutual goodwill and respect, embraced, calling each other “brother;” and coming to Boulogne, the most Christian King placed the King of England on his right hand; and passing through Marquise they refreshed themselves, the reception being as pompous and costly as possible, there being great plenty of everything requisite.
Proceeding on their way, they met the Dauphin and the Dukes of Orleans and Angouleme, and the most Christian King said to the English King, “Sire, those are the Dauphin and my other sons, who wish, and are bound, to pay their respects to your Majesty;” and he then drew a little aside, not choosing to take part in the reception. Whereupon the English King not only embraced but kissed them all three on the mouth; and the Dauphin and Orleans thanked him for what he had done, and for having released their father from captivity, declaring that their lives and their entire substance would at all times be at the disposal of his Majesty and his kingdom. Angouleme, who had not the same subject of discourse, addressed him in another form, but so sweetly and sagely, according to report, that he spoke like an angel; so that the English King again embraced him alone, kissing him several times; after which the most Christian King resumed his place beside King Henry, thanking him for his gracious reception of his sons. They were then met in succession by five cardinals, namely, the Legate [Chancellor Duprat], Bourbon, Lorraine, Tournon, and Grammont, and by a great number of archbishops, bishops, and prelates, and by many princes and barons, all of whom were embraced by the English King, which being a tedious and fatiguing ceremony, was considered a mark of great gracious-ness on the part of his Majesty; there being, in addition to these, the 200 gentlemen of his most Christian Majesty's household, in rich and noble array, and the 400 archers, and the 100 Switzers, all in very costly liveries of silk and gold, so that the abundance of silk, gold, pearls, and jewels on the part of France was considered inestimable, most especially on account of the embroideries and brocades (brocature) now in fashion there; but on the side of England there were many cloths of silk, and gold chains without number, but not such boundless expense.
On entering Boulogne, although the English King remonstrated against it, his most Christian Majesty accompanied him to his chamber; and on the following day sent him, as a present, a coat (iuppone) a doublet (soio) and a gown (roba) such as he himself purposed wearing on that day, which apparel was embroidered with pearls and precious stones, so that it is said to be marvellous. And the various games, entertainments, and pageants were most splendid and endless; and the extreme graciousness of both the Kings was remarkable, for the most Christian King always banqueted the Englishmen, King Henry doing the like by the Frenchmen. On the 13th the most Christian King gave the English King a suit of bed furniture, wrought throughout with pearls on crimson velvet, which he purchased lately in Paris of an Italian merchant for 10,000 golden crowns; and the other day he gave him six coursers of his own breed, the handsomest he had in his stable.
It is said that on the evening of the 23rd the two Kings held a long secret conference, there being present on the part of France the Lord Chancellor Legate, the Lord Steward, and the Admiral, (fn. 7) and on the part of England the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk, and the Bishop of Winchester.
The result of this conference is understood to be that the most Christian King sends the Cardinals Tournon and Grammont to the Pope about the Emperor entering Italy, and will send a personage to said Emperor (a esso Cesare) and he has despatched an ambassador to Scotland to offer his daughter to the King there, according to the request made by the Scottish ambassador, who had returned to his King without any decision. But his most Christian Majesty will give him his daughter on condition that he do forthwith form a league and understanding with his Majesty and the English King, which will be difficult.
It is said that the English King having made the Marchioness cross the Channel with him for the purpose of marrying her, with the intervention of King Francis, (per sposarla con intervento dil Re Xmo.) his most Christian Majesty apparently modified this project at the consultation held between them; and such is the belief of the French and English.
The Reverend (sic) Casal (fn. 8) arrived lately, having ridden post from Rome, where he was negotiating for the English King. No farther change was caused by his coming.
On the morning of the 25th the most Christian King gave the collar of his order of St. Michael to the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk, and went to Calais with the English King; and on the road, and on entering that town, the same compliments were paid as on entering Boulogne, every loving and honourable demonstration being made towards the French; nor was there less magnificence; games and pageants being exchanged for wild fowl and venison, and, moreover, for English ladies. (fn. 9) Then the English King gave his most Christian Majesty a vesture (uno vestido) and six coursers, and six hobbies (chinee); and it is said, though this I do not know for certain, that he remitted and gave to the three French princes the entire debt due from their father, amounting to about 300,000 crowns. He also gave his Order of St. George to the Lord Steward and to the Admiral (fn. 10); and finally gave, as servant to the most Christian King, his natural son, who is about 13 years old.
On the 29th the English King, accompanied by the most Christian King, went a distance of three leagues beyond Calais; there they took leave of each other with many mutual embraces and caresses.
It is reported that these two nations, which are by nature hostile to each other, exchanged greater marks of honour and goodwill than were expected.
Two days hence the most Christian King will go to Amiens, there to consult about the mission of these two Cardinals. It is said that these two Kings have agreed for the Cardinals to insist on the Pope's not leaguing with the Emperor, and should he make a fresh agreement with him, they will no longer allow the collation of the benefices of France and England to be referred to Rome, but will separate their clergy from the Roman See. (Si dice questi Rè kanno convenuto che li Cardinali insista ch'el Papa non conseguisca il vincolo con Cesare; et facendo nova, intelligentia non voter più che la erpeditione di Franca et Anglia vadino a Roma, ma divider il suo clero dalla Sede Romana). But this interview (vista) and conference have been a superfluous expenditure,—entertainments and pageants, and nothing else.
Abbeville, (fn. 11) 31st October. Registered by Sanuto, 29th November.
[Italian.]
Oct. 31. Sanuto Diaries, v lvii. p. 276. 823. Carlo Capello to the Signory.
Wrote that his most Christian Majesty and the English King met together on the other side of the Channel, there being present at the interview solely a French secretary, who wrote down their negotiations.
According to the advices received their Majesties met on the 21st, at the distance of a league and a half from Calais. The most Christian King was accompanied by the Cardinal of Lorraine, the Lord Steward Montmorency, Monsr. di St. Pol, Monsr. de Guise (Monsr. de la Gisa) Monsr. de Pontier [Penthievre ?], and other lords and gentlemen, some 1,800 in number, who came processionally, all most richly clad, the meanest wearing black velvet. The King of England was with the Dukes of Norfolk, Suffolk, and Richmond, the Bishops (sic), and others numbering 800 horse, all in embroidered coats, some of velvet and others of cloth. The King was all covered with pearls and jewels, and on meeting the most Christian King was the first to uncover; and having embraced each other, King Francis went to salute the Duke of Norfolk and the other lords, King Henry doing the like by the Cardinal of Lorraine and those of France. And the King of England being placed on the upper hand, they went together towards Boulogne, hawking on the way and quarrying herons; and when within a league of Boulogne they were met by the three sons of the most Christian King, accompanied by four Cardinals, the Lord Chancellor, Bourges, Bourbon, and Grammont, with 600 lords and gentlemen, in no less gallant guise than the aforesaid, with a very handsome company of 500 halberdiers. And his most Christian Majesty presented his said sons to the English King, making him a present of them, commanding them, under pain of his displeasure and paternal malediction, always to honour and obey him as their father, which pleased the King of England; and it is said that he gave them the 300,000 crowns which he lent to their father for his ransom from Spain. Their two Majesties then entered Boulogne, whereupon all the artillery, which is in great quantity there, was discharged; and in one guard there were 100 Switzers, dressed from head to foot in red, yellow, and violet-coloured velvet. The two Kings lodged together.
Next morning the most Christian King sent to the English King an entire suit of white velvet, very costly, with embroidery; and the most Christian King clad himself in a similar suit; and dressed thus alike they heard mass. The other greetings (accoglientie) such as banquets and entertainments, were very exquisite, and replete with every demonstration of honour.
Then on the 25th they quitted Boulogne at sunset, and entered Calais together, with no less rejoicing than was made at Boulogne, and the most Christian King and his company were well received, and the day before yesterday departed; and it was said that yesterday the King of England would embark on his return to this island; but I have seen letters from a member of the Privy Council that he will tarry some days beyond sea; and it is supposed that he will have another interview with the most Christian King at Guisnes and Ardres, this last-named place belonging to France, the other to England; and that the Duke of Orleans, the second son of the most Christian King, will come to England with King Henry, whose son, the Duke of Richmond, will remain with King Francis.
The Parliament here has been prorogued until Candlemas, and will be prorogued as much longer as the settlement of the divorce is delayed; and fresh books appear daily in English, French, and Latin, part in favour of the King and part for the Queen.
London, 31st October 1532. Registered by Sanuto, 7th December.
[Italian.]
Oct. 31. Sanuto Diaries, v. lvii. p. 279. 824. Summary of the Interview between the Kings of England and France.
Madam Anne is not one of the handsomest women in the world; she is of middling stature, swarthy complexion, long neck, wide mouth, bosom not much raised, and in fact has nothing but the English King's great appetite, and her eyes, which are black and beautiful, and take great effect on those who served the Queen when she was on the throne—(et li ochj, che sono neri et belli, el che ha grande modo de l'iutertenimento di servitori avesse la Regina quando era in salute).
The most Christian King will go to a distance of two leagues from Calais to meet the King of England, and then return to dine at Marquise, and sleep at Boulogne, where they will remain Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and then on Friday go to Calais, remaining there Saturday and Sunday.
These two Kings have a bitter feeling against the Pope and the Emperor. The English King purposes destroying the castle of Gravelines, which the Emperor built opposite Calais.
Madam Anne lives like a Queen at Calais, and the King accompanies her to mass and everywhere as if she was such.
The King's son is very handsome and accomplished.
On the 20th October the most Christian King, accompanied by the gentlemen of his household, went to mass at Notre Dame de Boulogne.
200 Imperial horse and 500 infantry have entered Gravelines; so the Emperor has shifted his quarters.
In the afternoon the King, accompanied by the princes, went to sleep at Marquise, between Boulogne and Calais; his three sons, the Legate, the Lord Chancellor, and the other Cardinals and Bishops remaining at Boulogne, he having solely Lorraine and Bayonne with him; and tomorrow the two kings will meet at the “Hospice” of St. Gilbert.
On the 21st October 1532, at the ninth hour, the most Christian King dined; at the 10th he mounted on horseback with all the princes and gentlemen who were at Marquise, and they went towards Calais, without servants: and all the gentlemen, who were in great number, were clad in velvet.
On arriving at St. Gilbert's, two leagues from Calais, the King of England came in sight, very well accompanied by princes and gentlemen. And when the two Kings met they embraced each other twice, and after exchanging a few words, again embraced closely, shedding a few tears of joy, and then reciprocally embraced the princes.
The Dauphin with his two brothers and the Legate, Bourbon, Tournon, and Grammont, were at a distance of half a league from Boulogne with the young Princes Nevers, the sons of Vendome, de Guise, and many other gentlemen, and the King's archer-guard and the Switzers. When the Kings met them, his English Majesty embraced them, and Angoulême's speech to him was graceful.
They then entered the town in a body; and in the evening the two Kings remained together before supper in pleasing discourse, after which all went to supper in their own apartments. And after supper the most Christian King went to visit the English King, and they discussed light topics (e parlono di cose piacevole) and then withdrew to their chambers. The chambers were richly furnished, and the halls also.
This morning, the 22nd, the most Christian King sent to give the English King a gown, a coat, and a doublet (una vesta, uno zamavo, e uno giupono) and the King also clad himself in like manner, and they went to a church. One went to one chapel, the other to another, both of which were very richly furnished; and the mass being ended, they joined company, and a “mottetto” was sung in his (sic) chapel, commencing with the words “Da pacem, Domine, in diebus nostris.” All the Cardinals who were at the mass went together, after church, to the apartment (scalla) of the English King, where they remained half an hour in conversation, and then went to the apartment of the most Christian King, and the English King kept the Cardinal of Lorraine to dine with him; and after dinner they had a game at ball, and then gambled. The most Christian King dragged the King of England (fn. 12) to Council, where he remained about an hour, and then went to see the English King joust. They are intent on making good cheer; the Dauphin and the Lord Steward invite some of these grandees to banquet with them. The negotiations are conducted very secretly. On coming from the game of ball in the middle of the court, compliments were exchanged about accompanying each other. Having entered their chambers, the most Christian King before supper went to visit King Henry, whom he took to sup with him, and a very handsome banquet was served, after which they gambled, and the Cardinal of Lorraine lost 1,500 crowns to the Duke of Suffolk; everyone then withdrew. The Lord Steward placed the first service before the the King, and then retired to his lodging in the Castle, taking with him all the English princes and lords, to whom he gave a very grand banquet in great state.
On the 23rd, the two Kings on quitting their chambers met in the centre of the court, and after talking together awhile, proceeded to the mass, which being ended, they returned to their apartments. The most Christian King took the Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk to dine with him, and the English King did the like by the Cardinal of Bourbon, Lorraine, Vendôme, St. Pol, and Guise. Even the King talked licentiously; (fn. 13) and they gambled for the space of two hours. After dinner the most Christian King sat in Council with the Bishop of Winchester, the Dukes of Suffolk and Norfolk, the Cardinal Legate, the Lord Steward, and the Admiral]; the Cardinals Grammont, Tournon, and Bayonne were in the hall but did not enter, and departed. (fn. 14) They remained together for an hour, and then the most Christian King came to the English King to the joust. The aforesaid again sat in Council, remaining thus for about two hours, the only persons present besides themselves being Vilander (sic) and an English secretary. The joust being ended, the two Kings went into his most Christian Majesty's chamber and had a long conversation at a window, and it was known to be of importance.
This evening the Cardinal of Lorraine gave a banquet to the English Princes. The English King gave his most Christian Majesty 13 very handsome horses of his country, and received others from King Francis.
A roll is being made of the persons who are to go to Calais.
The affairs here are conducted very secretly, nor can one hear anything.
It is understood that the Queen of France demands her share in the government of Flanders. (fn. 15)
On the evening of the 23rd, the two Kings supped, each in their own quarters; and after supper the two remained together alone, more than an hour and half.
On the morning of the 24th the two Kings quitted their chambers simultaneously, and the sons of the most Christian King went to return thanks to the King of England for the 300,000 crowns which he gave yesterday to all three of them, such being the amount due to him from the King of France.
When the English King came downstairs, his most Christian Majesty presented him with seven very handsome horses, each of which King Henry chose to inspect Afterwards they went together to mass. They dined together in the large hall, which was very well decorated with very beautiful tapestries, and with them were the Cardinals, the Legate, Tournon, and Grammont, and Louis de Venes (sic), Fleuranges, Bartexius (sic), and Larisipola [Larochepot ?]; and there was much good cheer, and some of the English favourites dined with the most Christian King. Then the two Kings were together for a short while, and went to see the game at ball [query, tennis ?]. The Legate, the Lord Steward, and the Admiral, with some Englishmen, sat in Council.
It is said that the marriage of Madam Anne will be solemnized on Sunday, and that Bayonne will sing the mass.
During the last two days the most Christian King has been in a great passion, owing to letters received from Rome, purporting that he has been the cause of the Turkish invasion, and the Pope allows sermons to be preached in Rome publicly to this effect.
On the 25th the Legate went to the King, as did also the other Cardinals. Afterwards, the two Kings being in riding gear, and with the order [of St. Michael] round their necks, [the most Christian King] gave it with very great ceremony to Suffolk and Norfolk.
After dinner the two Kings mounted on horseback on their way to Calais, accompanied by his most Christian Majesty's three sons; and the Cardinals Tournon and Grammont are being sent to Rome, for the purpose, it is said, of obtaining the tenths and annats of benefices in the same manner as conceded to the Emperor.
The marriage of Madam Anne is announced by balls, (fn. 16) banquets, and masquings, but the people of England will not allow it to take place.
The King's sons remained [at Boulogne ?]; the Lord Steward went to . . . . .
I write nothing about the doings at Calais, but nothing was thought of but good cheer, balls, and masquings; and very great honour was paid to the most Christian King; and some Frenchmen were made Knights of the Garter.
The son of the English King is very handsome and accomplished; he came to France, and the son of the Duke of Norfolk is also coming.
The King of England has arranged to fortify Guisnes and other places distant 2½ leagues from Calais.
Boulogne ? 31st October. Registered by Sanuto 7th December.
[Italian.]

Footnotes

  • 1. In the year 1532, the island of S. Spirito in the Venetian Lagoons was inhabited by the “Canons of S. Spirito.” (See Flaminio Corner.)
  • 2. “In 1526, Polydore Vergil published a treatise de Prodigiis (8vo., Lond.), consisting of Dialogues and Attacks upon Divination. This work was reprinted at Basle by Bebelius, in 1531, and again by Hingrim in 1545.” (See pp. xiii. xiv., Sir Henry Ellis's Preface to “Three Books of Polydore Vergil's English History,” printed for the Camden Society, 1844.
  • 3. In date 5 August 1531, the ambassador Falier mentioned the appearance in London or Halley s comet; and of the comet of 1532, a Venetian dictionary of dates, contains the following notice: “From the 23rd September to the 20th November, with a long tail towards the south. (Cronologia del P. Coronelli, p. 509; ed. Venice 1707 )
  • 4. In the original le vele for veglie. Baretti translates veglia “a night's meeting “
  • 5. Document enclosed in a despatch from the Venetian ambassadors Venier and Giustinian, date Paris, 14 December 1532. (See also Leonard, t. ii. p. 388, and Dumont, t. iv. part ii.) It is not in Rymer.
  • 6. “Ritrovandosi tutti li Oratori quì alli 18, scrissi da Montreuil che adi 17 il Nontio Pontificio et Orator Cesareo concluseno questo atto di fame star quì apartati, e via (eon pocha consideration, et per far grande iniuria a li Principi de chi semo Oratori, li quali è sta fati venir a Montarol e Bologna), e spender, confiuandone, e a cadaun altro è sta leeito andar a vedcr i congressi.”
  • 7. Philippe Chabot, Seigneur de Brion.
  • 8. Query Sir Gregory Casal. (See State Papers, vol. vii. part 5, p. 380.)
  • 9. “e non furono inferiori di splendidezza, suplendo nelli jochi spetaculi, de animali silvestri e di più dille dame Englese.” See also Hall, p. 795. “I assure you he [Francis I] and his trayne, were requited at Caleis for [by?] the plentie of wylde foule, venison,” etc., etc.
  • 10. Montmorency and Chabot.
  • 11. In the original “Bovilla,” but see letter dated Montreuil, 17th October.
  • 12. “Il Rè Xmo il tiro in consilio dove stetey” etc.
  • 13. “Fino il Rè intrò in ragionamento di lussã” (sic) (lussuria?).
  • 14. “II Re Xmo poi disnar intrò in consilio con Monsignor di Vicestre, duca di Sopholch e di Norpholch, il Legato Cardinal Gran Metre et Admirante, li Cardinali Agrarnonte et Tornon et Bajona, erano in la salla e non introrono e se partirono.”
  • 15. “La Regina di Franz a se intende dimanda il suo partagio delle coae di Fiandra.” Eleanor of Austria, Queen of France, sister of Charles V., probably claimed part of the property left by her aunt Margaret, Governess of the Low Countries, who died at Mechlin on the 1st of December 1530; or it may mean “her share in the government of Flanders.”
  • 16. S'è messo in balli etc.