Henry VIII: January 1536, 1-5

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 10, January-June 1536. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1887.

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Citation:

'Henry VIII: January 1536, 1-5', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 10, January-June 1536, ed. James Gairdner( London, 1887), British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol10/pp1-12 [accessed 27 July 2024].

'Henry VIII: January 1536, 1-5', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 10, January-June 1536. Edited by James Gairdner( London, 1887), British History Online, accessed July 27, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol10/pp1-12.

"Henry VIII: January 1536, 1-5". Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 10, January-June 1536. Ed. James Gairdner(London, 1887), , British History Online. Web. 27 July 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol10/pp1-12.

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January 1536, 1-5

[Jan.]
R. O.
1. John Whalley to [Cromwell].
There have been 380 persons at work in Dover all the Christmas holydays; a month's pay will be due to them on Saturday next, since he "made even" with them on Saturday, 18 Dec. The master of the Maisondewe had them to work in the holydays "to be assurede that the bache shulde not come over." Has no money, and if the work is abandoned at this stage, it will run risk of being lost. "The bache as I do thinke ys stopte for ever; wherefore Sir I beseche you that thiese pore men that ys there may be payde; yt were tyme that either I or the master of the Maisondewe were gone." Had letters from Dover yesternight, no "vytelles" to be had for them for 15 days, if it lasts much longer they must needs depart.
Hol., p. 1. Endd.
1 Jan.
R. O.
2. Thos. Wynter to Cromwell.
As my fortunes are very small, as you know, I venture to send you a little present for a new year's gift. As you are much engaged, I do not trouble you with longer letters. London, cal. Jan.
Hol., Lat., p. 1. Add.: A Secretis.
[1 Jan.]
R. O.
3. William Morice to Cromwell.
This bearer, my brother, is healed of his fever. Please let him know when he shall be admitted to your service. I send you a token in remembrance of the new year. Your kindness showed to my brother, lately robbed at sea, demands my thanks. Jesu send you many good new years. Signed.
Add.: Secretary. Endd.
1 Jan.
R. O.
4. The Chapter of Exeter Cathedral to Cromwell.
Whereas we have hitherto granted without fee to Sir Will. Courtney our good friend the stewardship of our lands lying upon the sea side near his manor of Powderham, whereby he might have many good mariners and tall men to serve the King; on being reminded by Mr. Tregonwell that such small office would be a treasure to you, we have granted you not only the high stewardship in question, but that of all our lands in Devonshire, with a yearly fee of 100s. Exeter, 1 Jan. 1535.
We send you the 100s. by Mr. Tregonwell.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
1 Jan.
R. O.
5. Hugh Latham to Thomas Latham.
I desire you to call on your brother that he may speak to Mr. Richard Cromwell for me, for I am belied by a wretch who showed the abbot of Woburn that I should say, " it and other more should down or Twelfthtide." I never spoke so. I am kept in hold for a trial. Speak to Mr. Howcroft for me, and desire him to go with you to Mr. Cromwell. My fellow lies sick and may not come to you. I have gear for you from your father-in-law, for J thought to have been with you or my Lord had come to Colam. 1 Jan.
Hol., in his clerk's hand. P. 1. Add.: Cousin, at Gray's Inn. Endd.
6. Hugh Latham to Gilbert Latham, Master of St. Katharine's.
R. O. Kinsman, I beseech your help or else I am like to be sore troubled. As I was coming to Colam with my fellows, I said nothing but that houses of religion were like to be suppressed in this country as well as in ours. Your mother is in good health and all your friends in our country. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Master of St. Katharine's. Endd.
1 Jan.
Poli Epp. 1. 428.
7. Reginald Pole to Gaspar Cardinal Contarini.
Received his letters on Christmas Day, and is glad that the Pope was pleased with his (Pole's) letter. Congratulates him on his leisure, but the Church will soon require the services of him and others in a high position. Will write to Campensis as he desires. Is glad that the Cardinal has obtained from the Pope permission for the English to trade at Ancona, and they will go as soon as the permit arrives. Has received from England a book called " De Obedientia," published in the name of the bishop of Winchester, to prove, like Sampson's book, that the King is the supreme head of the Church of England, and that the Pope has no special authority. This authority is most impugned by those sworn to defend it. The books were sent to educate him in the opinions which the King wishes him to follow, and whatever his opinion may be, he is not permitted to be silent. Bears this necessity of writing the more willingly, as even if they bid him be silent, in the present state of things he does not know whether he should comply. There is nothing in their books to deter even a man of moderate understanding from replying, as the Cardinal will easily see by the book of bishop Stephen, which Pole sends to him. Venice, kal. Jan.
Lat.
1 Jan.
Corpus Reform. III. 5.
8. Melanchthon to Justus Jonas.
Found a packet of his letters on returning from the diet at Smalcald. Will tell him when they meet about what was done there. Was so tortured in consequence of it, that he prepared a reply to the Nuncio. (Ego ex eo tantum cruciatus fui, ut adornarem responsionem ad Nuncium Pontificium de concilio.) Asks Jonas to support him in the case of Antonius Musa. The university detains him here, especially as many others are absent. Hopes to return shortly with others who are here, but does not think it fit to hurry on account of the English discussion. [Jena], kal. Jan.
Recommendations to Dr. Martin (Luther).
Lat.
[Jan.]
Corpus Reform. III. 9.
9. Melanchthon to Hier. Baumgartner.
Is not sorry that his journey to France is hindered, although his friends know how pressing were the letters of invitation; for what was fair could not be obtained. Many considerations deter him from England.
Lat.
1 Jan.
Add. MS. 28,588, f. 109. B. M.
10. Dr. Ortiz to the Empress. (fn. 1)
Wrote last on Dec. 16, and has since received her letter of 4 Dec. The ambassador in England writes of the incredible cruelties prepared in Parliament. The King has twice said that the Queen and Princess are traitors, and despise the statutes, and that though he lose his crown they shall suffer the same penalty as others. The ambassador declares most seriously that they are in great danger.
The Carthusians remaining in London are constant, and prepared for martyrdom. It is more certain that the earl of Kildare, who is in the Tower, will inherit his father's death, than his estates. The King ordered troops to be sent against some persons in Ireland who resist him.
When the French king was ill, a public procession was celebrated in England for his recovery. (A leaf is probably lost here).
Has asked the Pope to grant seven years and seven Lents of pardon to those who say three paternosters in memory of the death of Christ, at 3 p.m. the hour of His death, which he granted. On St. John's day, requested him to offer all the prayers that were thus said in Spain, for the benefit of the Queen and Princess, and others expecting martyrdom in England. There is no need for the people to know this. It is enough that His Holiness intends this object, in the presence of God. Asks the Empress to cause this prayer to be commended by the prelates in Spain, and the bell to be three times rung, as is done for the Ave Maria. Rome, 1 Jan. 1536.
Sp., pp. 9. Modern copy.
[Jan.]
Add. MS. 28,588, f. 149. B.M.
11. Dr. Ortiz to Katharine of Arragon.
Has received her letter of 13 Dec. Reflections on the warfare in which she is engaged against the enemies of the faith. Sends a notification of the seven years and seven Lents of pardon granted by the Pope to all those in Spain who say three paternosters in memory of Christ's death, when the bell rings at 3 p.m. The intention of the Pope is that all these prayersshall be offered for the Queen and Princess, and the Saints who are fighting for the faith in England.
Sp., pp 23. Modern copy.
2 Jan. 12. Thomas Wriothesley, one of the Clerks of the Signet.
To be coroner and attorney in the King's Bench on the first vacancy, —those offices having been granted to Thos. Fermour by patent 1 June, 1 Hen. VIII. Signed Bill (among Exch. documents).
Endorsed as despatched at Eltham, 2 Jan. 27 Hen. VIII. [Enrolled 4 Jan. See Grants in January, No. 2].
2 Jan.
R. O.
13. Thomas Prior of Christchurch, Canterbury, to Cromwell.
Thanks him for restoring the writer's brother, Dr. Thornedon, to the office of warden of their manors. John Antony shall have the fee of what was promised him. Will receive into their house two religious men of the priory of Dover, according to the King's command, signified by Cromwell. Sends him 20 ryalles for a poor token. The convent has granted Cromwell an annuity of 10l. If the grant is not in the form Cromwell wishes it, will alter it at his pleasure. Canterbury, Sunday, 2 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Secretary.
2 Jan.
R. O.
14. William Wyllyngton and Thos. Holte to Cromwell.
On Thursday in these Christmas holidays next before New Year's day, certain parishioners of a town called Oxshulf, here in Warwickshire, showed us that they heard in divers churches the King declared supreme head of the Church, and that the bishop of Rome was a usurper, and that they heard other curates command their parishioners to teach their children and their servants the same, but not their curate, except once, when the ordinary sent the same to be declared in every church. They further say that they did not so fully understand it, because their curate did not declare it unto them. The next morning, which was New Year's eve, we repaired to the said church to see that it was ordered as the King commanded, and whether the books of the church were reformed or not. We found there the parish priest, and on searching the mass books, legyans (legends), portues, processioners, and other books, we found none reformed but one mass book, which was reformed in the beginning by the dean, who ordered that all should be reformed; which was not done till we ourselves reformed them. On our inquiring the reason for this neglect, he said he would have declared the ordinary's commandment if his master would have suffered him; but that at the first time his master declared it himself, and then took it away, and would not allow him to have it. We examined him whether he used the collect for the King and the Queen to be said daily on pain of excommunication, and he said he did never say it until the week before Christmas, as his master never showed it him, nor knew of it till he heard of it from a priest at Pyllarton. Not being able to find it, we caused our clerks to write out the collect in every mass book of the Church. He could not tell us whether his master used it or not; on which we sent for him and for his portues that he daily carried, to see if it were better reformed than the books of the church. But he had locked it up and had gone away, as his parishioners reported, because he would not speak with us. According to the King's letters directed to us as justices of the peace we send you this account. The bearer shall tell you more of the demeanour of the parson, whose name is Sir Thos. Burley. Barcheston, Warw., 2 Jan. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
2 Jan.
R. O. St. P. II. 297.
15. Earl of Ossory, Lord Leonard Gray, and Others, to Cromwell.
Are assembled to hear causes in Carlogh, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Waterford, and Wexford, to inquire about the King's revenues, to be present at the election of knights of the shire for Parliament, and to practise with the Irish in Leinster. Unless the Byrnes, Tholes, and Kavenaghes are reformed, the King will never be secure. Write their opinion, in the absence of the deputy and treasurer. It will be difficult to banish the said nations, and a better way will be to build fortresses among them and get them to submit.
The Deputy (fn. 2) and Council should direct all their minds to attaining the hostages of the Geraldines and others in Munster, and the breaking of O'Brienes bridge, and then reform Leinster, and practise against Manus O'Donell, who purposes to marry a sister of the earl of Kildare's. Some agreement should be made between him and his son. The King should advise the Deputy to take pledges of the Borderers of the Englishry, and especially O'Rayley; and to cause Neile More to depart out of Uriell. If these things are remitted to Mr. Treasurer, they will not be long delayed. The Deputy should be ordered to furnish Lord Leonard with ordnance and gunners. Lord Leonard offers to take Maynothe on lease. Desire an answer by the bearer, Martin Pellis. From Clomell, departing to Yoghill, 2 Jan. Signed: P. Oss'—Leonard Gray—James Butler—Gerald Aylmer, Justice—John Alen, Mr. of the Rolles.
Pp. 3. Add.; Master Secretary. Endd.
3 Jan.
Add. MS. 25, 114, f. 118. B. M.
16. Cromwell to Gardiner.
By the bearer, Mr. Wallop's servant, he will receive an answer to his letter of the 25 Dec. Is to use diligence for the delivery of the ships detained at Bordeaux. Will pay Peter Lurk to-morrow. Eltham, 3 Jan. Signed.
In Wriothesley's hand, p. 1. Add.: "To my lord of Winchester, the King's ambassador in France." Endd.
3 Jan.
R. O.
17. Edward Archbishop of York to Cromwell.
I have received your letters by my brother, treasurer of York, requiring me to institute him to the hospital of the Horsfayer. Each of the parties, Eglesfeld and Evers, has taken a quare impedit against me, so I cannot admit either. I have written to old Sir Raufe Evers to be content cum patronatu terciæ vicis which Eglesfeld offers; if this does not answer, you might write to him to put it to the determination of two learned men. "I ame yet in lashe bicause, in my absence, Doctor Strangwaies did admytte the clerc of the tone parte, the controversie hanging and not determined." Cawod, 3 Jan. 1535. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: "Mr. Secretary." Endd.
3 Jan.
R. O.
18. Edward Archbishop of York to Cromwell.
Wishes to know whether the convocation, which is prorogued to the 3rd Feb., shall be prorogued further, and if so to what date, or dissolved; also whether the King wishes any particular thing done in the said convocation.
Has heard, from the master of Savoy, how good Cromwell was to him against his "froward tenants of Beverlaye." Cawod, 3 Jan. 1535. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: "Mr. Secretary." Endd.
3 Jan.
R. O.
19. John Barlo, Clerk, to Cromwell.
Knowing his zeal in the reformation of many things, which has appeared lately, confesses he has offended, being sometime a fautor of the Papistical sect, and in compensation for his error, is willing to suppress them by all the means he can devise. Thinks that no little danger will ensue from them in Wales, and specially in the diocese of St. David's, as his brother, the prior of Haverford West, can inform Cromwell. They are supported by the bishop and head priests of St. David's, and labor with the gentlemen in the Commons, there to stick with them in their old mumpsimus. Some think that they assisted in the late rebellion in Ireland, and were not abashed to say openly they trusted to see this world alter and change again. Although there be no likelihood of that in Wales, thinks it ought to be avoided, and the chief fautors, as named by his brother, be sent for; the rest reformed by a commission, in which he offers his service. Westbury upon Trym, 3 Jan. Signed.
P. 1, large sheet. Add.: Secretary. Endd. by Wriothesley.
3 Jan.
R. O.
20. Sir Robert Dormer to Richard Cromwell.
I thank you for your kindness to me and mine. As I have heard you say that my master, your uncle, would have a pasture wherein I dwell for the provision of his household, I hear there is one called Brill Closez, which the abbot of Notley is inclined to let. I have spoken to him in your uncle's name, stating his desire to have it. The abbot said he had promised it to two simple persons of the country. I desired him to entreat them for the same. He made me only a light answer. This ground is as well mounded as a park. There is no way through it, and it is the best for beast and horse that I know. Will keep about four score of them and 400 sheep in winter and summer. The rent 12l. a year. If you will obtain your uncle's letter to the abbot, and a credence for me, I doubt not I shall obtain a convenient lease. Let me have a speedy answer. Jesu send you a good new year, and a many. Etheropp, 3 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
3 Jan.
R. O.
21. [Lord Lisle to Du Bies (?).]
I have received the copy of the complaint you have presented to the Admiral, (fn. 3) which appears to me somewhat strange. I have made inquiry of the old people of Marke and neighbourhood who say that the passage of which you complain was never used for horsemen or carts except some time ago when Sir Rob. Wingfield dried the marsh to the prejudice of the King and his subjects. I cannot allow the King's rights to be impaired, but you may be assured I would not allow Englishmen to do anything to the prejudice of the King your master. Calais, 3 Jan.
Fr., corrected draft, p. 1.
3 Jan.
Add. MS. 11,041, f. 2. B. M.
22. Shene Priory.
Receipt by Henry Man, prior of the house of Jesus of Bethlem at Shene, for 46s. 8d. from John Skydmore, Esq., farmer of the parsonage of Bridstowe. 3 Jan., 27 Hen. VIII.
Signed.
3 Jan.
R. O.
23. Dan Rauff Lymey to Dan Edw. Manchester, Scholar of Whalley.
On Sunday evening last between 7 and 9 my chamber at Haldleys was broken and two silver pieces taken. I will be glad to know how to discover the thieves, and will send the names of the suspected to you. Whalley, the 3rd day of the New Year.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
[3 Jan.] (fn. 4)
Nero. B. III. 94. B. M. Wegener, Aarsberetninger, IV. 34.
24. Lubeck, Denmark, and Sweden.
Instructions sent by Edmund Boner, Ric. Candish, and Bernard a Mela, to the King, and delivered to Adam Paceus, who is to treat with His Highness in accordance with them.
1. He is to express their duty to the King and present their letters. 2. To declare in full all the proceedings in the last and in other diets here, viz.:—
1. He shall show who were the mediators in this last diet, viz., the prince of Luneburg, the ambassadors of the elector of Saxony and the landgrave of Hesse, of the cities of Bremen, Hamburg, Luneburg, Magdeburg, Brunswick, and Hildesheim, who since a week from Twelfth-day (ab octavo die Trium Regum) have been endeavouring to make peace between the prince of Holstein, lately elected king of Deumark, and the people of Lubeck.
2. He shall explain the reasons of the said princes and states making the said duke of Holstein king of Denmark; viz., to procure peace and keep out the Burgundians. Peace has been publicly made between the said elected king of Denmark and the Lubeckers, on the terms that the [duke] of Holstein is to remain king of Denmark and Norway, and that damages suffered by both sides are to be borne. The compromise made in the camp before Lubeck last year is annulled. The Lubeckers are to persuade Albert, prince and count of Oldenborg, either by words or money, to make peace and leave Denmark, in return for which they shall have the island of Borneholme for 100 years, and 15,000 gold pieces from the arbitrators. The prince of Prussia and the people of Ditmarsh (Dytmarienses) are included in this treaty. The dispute between the king of Sweden and the Lubeckers is to be heard by the king of Denmark and settled before Michaelmas. There are other articles of no moment. Other cities friendly to Lubeck as Sunda, Rostock, and Wismar, have received similar articles which their rulers will discuss and answer in six weeks.
3. The reason why the ambassadors of prince Albert, count Christopher and Koppenhagen and Elbogen refused to agree to the treaty and went away before the end of the diet, was that they had a special mandate only for two articles, which they could not exceed. The first was that king Christiern should be released from his captivity and be restored to his kingdom, and, on his death, another King might be elected. The second, that if they would not do this, they ought at least to hand over Christiern to friendly princes or states and hold another diet to examine the right of both parties, and give a sentence which of these two Christierns should remain King. As the Holsatians would not accept this, saying that they had a great army which they could not dismiss or feed any longer, the Danish ambassadors left. Meanwhile the Lubeckers tried in their name to obtain a ratification, and will send as soon as possible ambassadors to Denmark to persuade prince Albert and his party to enter the treaty.
4. As the Emperor and the Burgundians wish to have an interest in Denmark, and have written terrible letters both into Denmark and to Lubeck warning them not to make peace with the [duke] of Holstein, the King must be told their reasons. Their thirst for rule has been alluded to. Seeing the state of the kingdom, they wish to find an opportunity of introducing themselves, and first proposed to the prince of Bavaria to attempt it in the name of his wife. This did not promise to be successful, for how could a daughter, who is not the heir, claim a kingdom ? And Denmark is an elective, not an hereditary kingdom; nor could she succeed in her father's life. They then adopted another pretext, the liberation of Christiern from prison, and letters and embassies were sent in the name of the Emperor, Ferdinand and the Palatine asking for his case to be determined by law, and on refusal, threatening to avenge his injuries and set him free. On this pretext ho wishes to seize the Baltic kingdoms, whence he can injure all his neighbours and principally overcome Germany.
5. As they cannot discover the truth about George Wollewever, who is being tried as a criminal, nor see a copy of his confession, it is not safe to inform the King merely of the common report, but the archbishop of Bremen writes that he will send the King a copy of the said confession. Are not sure whether the charges against him are true, as those who examined him were not altogether favourable to him. When the King's letters and those of Boner and Candish were first given to the bishop of Bremen, he sent a copy to the prince of Luneberg and the ambassadors at Hamburg, presumably in contempt of the King. Besides, the envoys of Bremen said openly that the King's letters to the bishop and town were forged by Boner and Candishe, with the intent either of making the King hated by the Germans or making the King angry with his ambassadors. In either case they acted very shamelessly.
The state of Sweden is as follows: When I, Bernard, was in England, I showed the King articles why I proposed to occupy the kingdom of Sweden, which articles were again sent by us to the King. If Bernard had acted in accordance with them, with the King's help, every one thinks the kingdom would have been in the King's bands. Now that it is commonly reported that the pretended king of Sweden is killed, the affair must be managed in another way, and if he be dead, and the kingdom is settled, it will be very difficult. If he has been put to death by the common consent of the kingdom, and they have chosen a head or a viceroy, and are united, it cannot be lightly attacked, for it has never been conquered, except during a civil war. While king Gustofius was alive, all men hated him, and prayed Bernard to come, offering him the castles and strongholds. Now things are different, and if the King be dead, it is to be feared that the minds of the inhabitants are altered, and the project must be carefully considered. Proposes to send John, bp. of Scaren (Scharensem), and Wulfgang Geysler, formerly the King's chief secretary, whom the nobles sent to Bernard a year ago beseeching him to deliver them from the tyrant, as ambassadors in the name of the exiles in Germany, the archbp., (fn. 5) the bp. of Lincoping, (fn. 6) and the count of Hoya, in the name of his dead brother's sons, Swante Stur and other nobles, of whom many are in Germany, to warn the Senate against rashly putting themselves into the hands of any King or people, or making any treaties until they have elected a King; especially not to enter into any treaties with the Palatine or the Burgundians, nor to elect the king of Denmark, Prince Albert, or any other as King. It is said the Palatine and the others have already sent their ambassadors to Sweden. They should remind the Senate how tyrannically the Burgundians treat their subjects, and should promise them, in the name of Bernard and the others, help and advice how to protect themselves and keep the kingdom quiet. Then when they see the Senate and the people eager for quiet, they should gradually instil into their ears the advantage of electing a foreign king, and by commending the virtues of the king of England to the electors, procure his unanimous election. They should promise that, if there was agreement (although it was to be feared that the King might refuse), Bernard would do his best to persuade him, and if he were asked with proper reverence, by an embassy of the whole kingdom, he would not despise them, but comply with their prayers. If any proposed the Palatine as a foreign prince, it may be answered that he has no power of himself, and receiving him is receiving the Emperor and all the Burgundians, and losing ancient liberty. Will also send spies to find out whether the King is really dead, and other particulars. If they find him alive they will return and warn the ambassadors not to go. Will then act on his previous plan, if the King approves. If they find that he is dead, they shall inform the ambassadors, and present letters from the bps., the count of Hoya, &c, to their chief friends in the kingdom, asking for the restoration of their churches, castles, and possessions taken by the late King. They shall ask for advice and an answer, and meanwhile get information about the state of the kingdom. If the King is dead, and the Senate wish Bernard and the other exiles to return as friends and consult about choosing a new King, and other matters, it would not be well to return without an army, for two reasons, because there are probably certain nobles who desire the kingdom, and would fear and hate us, so that we should run the risk of being taken or killed, and should not be safe without an army. Secondly, because Sweden has never been quiet, except when foreign kings have ruled, for when nobles rule, as has been the case for a long time, there is always strife and war. Their nature is such that they cannot bear the rule of an equal. If, therefore, we came alone, even if we had nothing to fear and recovered our possessions, still we should not have a just King and a quiet kingdom. For if the exiles in Germany agreed on a King, there are only six of them who are senators and have a voice in the election, while there are more than 20 in the kingdom, so that the greater number may conquer the better, and choose some inexperienced nobleman, and the kingdom would not have a good King, nor would we effect what we wish, much less keep our promise. We must, therefore, take an army, even if we are invited in a friendly spirit. If the senators refuse to admit us or restore our property, or if they elect a new tyrant, then the end must be gained by war, but not before sedition has commenced in the kingdom. In short, in any case, an army is necessary, which we cannot get together without money. D. Adamus must therefore humbly beg the King to advance a sum to Bernard and the exiles. If successful (and they will make no attempt unless sure of success), they will assign the kingdom. Further delay will be injurious. The spies will return before Easter, and war should be begun in the beginning of April. Money is wanted to enlist soldiers, and at once, lest the country fall into the hands of the Burgundians, and to provide ships and food. If we do not write to the King for money till the spies have returned in the beginning of April, then it will be June or July before the army is got together, and the whole year will be lost. Bernard therefore begs the King to send 100,000 angelots, if possible, about Easter, with a copy of an obligation to which he and all the captains will swear. No money is to be paid till this is done, and till it has been discovered that there will be no human impediment to success. Everything should be so arranged that the King will feel that there is advantage and honour to be derived, not loss and deceit.
In the treaty made at Hamburg there is an article that the king elect of Denmark is to be arbiter of the controversies between the King and kingdom of Sweden, the count [of Hoya], Bernard, Swante Stur, and the Lubeckers before Michaelmas. We have not yet consented to this, and delay has been granted for their consent till Easter. Beg, therefore, that they may know the King's will by Adam. If the King thinks there ought to be delay, are willing to postpone their claims on Sweden for one or more years; but if he intends to give it up entirely, wish to know by Adam, at Easter, if possible. Bernard, however, is willing to serve the interests of the king of England, even if he never contribute any money, and w ill protect, as far as he can, the princes and states of Germany who are friendly with him, and vice versâ. He will do all in bis power to spread the King's fame everywhere. If the King intends to join the Evangelical League of the German princes he should not trust any money to them, but have his own sworn officers to collect his army. This would be much cheaper and better for many reasons.
The king elect of Denmark is raising nearly 12,000 men, prince Albert and the Count at least 6,000, and there is a constant report and other proofs that the Burgundians wish to help prince Albert and the Danes, which they cannot do without an army and navy. It is therefore to be feared that there will be more than 50,000 soldiers in Denmark next summer. Therefore lest any of the King's friends or servants should be in danger, it would be well for the King to send 10,000 gold pieces or so to the ambassadors at Hamburg, which they can employ through Bernard, and induce all the captains, both Danes and Burgundians, to swear to promote the King's honour. The King will by this means know what is being done, and after the war have both armies in his hands. Dr. Adam can answer the King's inquiries about anything else. Are sure of his zeal for the King, the more so as the King's enemies hate him. Signed.
Lat., pp. 9.
4 Jan.
Add MS. 25, 114, f. 119. B. M.
25. Henry VIII. to Gardiner and Wallop.
Has seen their letters of the 25th Dec., written to Thomas Cromwell, principal secretary, containing their discourse with the Admiral and Secretary Bushtett, touching the ships which the French refused to deliver unless the King will consent that his own act shall be dissolved in the next session of Parliament. Thanks Wallop for his conduct at the conference with the Admiral, where he both demanded the King's money, and entered communication touching their affairs; in which as to the first the Admiral made but a slender answer, and would have made none had they allowed, "but with a smiling and a shrinking of his shoulders have passed from you, and to the second, with a jolly face and countenance, declared that they would in no wise enter war without our aid," pretending to have no great necessity, although they are raising Almains, conveying artillery to Lyons, &c. Has examined the words of the statute, which some think contain more than the old act, viz., in the addition touching the French wines, and in the deputation and order concerning the price. They are to tell the Admiral and the King that Henry is grieved at this treatment, and that the treaties between them ratify all former ordinances touching traffic. It is a very old enactment that no Gascon wines or Toulouse woad be brought into England in strange bottoms, and nothing which has been done affects them but was devised to restrain the folly of English merchants who ventured to Bordeaux at unseasonable times, and the restraint from Michaelmas to Candlemas, by avoiding dangerous times, will rather augment the traffic. However, if they will immediately deliver the said ships and cease to molest the English merchants, the said acts shall be abrogated in the next session of Parliament. Instructs them what answer they are to make if they object that the clause only refers to Gascon and not French wines, and the regulation as to prices to prevent conspiracy. Merchants strive to make all states in the world pay unreasonable prices at their own arbitrament, and to usurp all laws. Hitherto Henry has stopped his ears against all complaints from such parties, as judging that municipal laws and ordinances made for the intercourse of nations ought not to be interrupted for a light matter.
Wallop is to communicate again with the Admiral for payment of the King's money, promised last November, on the King's part, par la foi du gentilhomme. Yesterday the ambassador of France was with the King at Eltham, with whom this argument was discussed, and specially the words of the Admiral, spoken to Wallop, "that they would not be now led as they were in the Cardinal's time." The King told him that the amity of the two kingdoms was necessary, "and that we be of no less but much greater authority to direct France in all their proceedings than we or our progenitors have been." Being king of England, of no small puissance, Henry cannot, led by friendship, "give place to the directions of France, and much less than to the brave advertisements or rather checks of such a fellow as the Admiral of France." Ho must pay proper respect to the King's honor and "make no more of his painted sheath than necdeth, ne flatter himself more than wisdom would require." Eltham, 4 Jan. Signed.
Pp. 11. In Wriothesley's hand. Add. and endd.
[4] Jan.
R. O.
26. Peter Bradshawe to Sir Humphrey Ratcliff. (fn. 7)
My brother Alexander, my lord your father's servant, wrote to me that you were content to pay the 30s., saving 9d. at Michaelmas. I could not attend upon you before, but if you would send it now by the bearer, Robt. Agas, groom of my lord of Norfolk's chamber, it could never come in better time. My brother says this sum is due to him from you, and it is but a parcel of what he owes me. Kenyngall, Tuesday after New Year's day.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: At the Court. Endd.
4 Jan.
R. O.
27. James V. to [the Earl of Cumberland].
Desires that he will deliver to the warden of the West Marches a rebel named Alex. Murray, convicted of divers crimes, who has fled to England. Stirling, 4 Jan. 23 James V.
P. 1. Headed: Copy of the king of Scots' letter. Begins: Right trusty and well beloved cousin.
5 Jan.
Otho, C. x. 215. B. M.
28. Sir Edmund Bedy[ngfield] to [Cromwell].
The Emperor's ambassador came to Kymbalt[on] on Sunday, Jan. 2, before dinner, after which he came in to the Princess Dowa[ger's] chamber, where he remained scarce a quarter of an hour, at which time both Mr. Chamb[erlain] and I were commanded to be present. He saluted her in Spanish, which I do not understand, but Mr. Vaghan, who was present, can declare to your Mastership the effect of their communication. About 5 p.m. [she] sent the doctor of physic for him, and none entered but the ambassador and his steward and the doctor. They stayed about half an hour. Next night, about seven o'clock, he was with her nearly an hour. We can find out nothing about these two later times, for no one was present except the persons mentioned and her old trusty women, who, I think, do not understand Spanish, or if the matters were of importance we should get [some manner] of knowledge by them. We do not know how long he will remain. "Furth[ermore, I advertise] you, my lady Willoghby came to us upon New [Year's Day], (fn. 8) about six of the clock at night; with whom b[oth Mr.] Chamberlyn and I did meet, she being ill a[t ease by] reason of a fall from her horse with in a my[le]. . . . . . . and as she appeared to us in countenance . . . . . . . . . saying she thought never to have seen the Prin[cess again] by reason of such tidings as she had he[ard of her;] at which time we demanded a sigh[t of her licence] hither to repair for our discharge; w[hereunto she made] answer that it was ready to be sch[owed] . . . . . . . . would not otherwise presume, pray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . suffer her being in such case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . her relief, saying th * * * princess, and since that time we never saw her, neither any letters of her licence hither to repair."
We hear from her doctor of physic that she hath somewhat taken comfort upon the coming of these folks, and somewhat falleth to more rest in the night, but he fears it will be a long continual sickness or she recover. Kymbalton, [Wednesday], 5 Jan. Signed.
P.S.—Asks for some relief of money by Master Gostwyk.
5 Jan.
R. O.
29. Catesby.
Receipt by Christian Golde, of Welton, Northt., of 3s. 4d. from Ric. Catisby, squire, of Lapworth, Warw., 5 Jan., 27 Hen. VIII.
P. 1. Small slip. Sealed.
5 Jan.
R. O.
30. Thos. Dacre to Cromwell.
At the arrival of Lord Leonard Gray, high marshal of the army, was committed to ward for eight days, and has been misreported to the King and Cromwell. Is always ready to adventure his life in the King's service. Being appointed through Cromwell, to be a captain of northern spears, asks him to mediate for him to the King. His kinsman, Richard Dakers, was in ward by Lord Leonard's orders 7 weeks, with irons on his arms and legs for 14 days, as Agard, who took them off, can inform Cromwell. The Council can lay nothing to his charge, as far as he knows. He has done good service. Asks leave to come to Cromwell to clear himself. Dublin, 5 Jan. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Chief Secretary. Endd. erroneously: A letter from the Lord Dacre.

Footnotes

  • 1. "A S. M. La Reina."
  • 2. Written in ignorance of Skeffingtou's death on the 31 Dec. at Kilmainham.
  • 3. Brion.
  • 4. See the document headed: "Denmark and Lubeck," 14 Feb. following.
  • 5. John a Vesa, or Vesalius, abp. of Lunden.
  • 6. John Braske.
  • 7. Third son of Robert earl of Sussex.
  • 8. See Strype's Memorial, I. i. 372, showing the information obtained from this document before the fire.