Henry VIII: October 1536, 1-5

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 11, July-December 1536. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1888.

This free content was digitised by double rekeying. All rights reserved.

Citation:

'Henry VIII: October 1536, 1-5', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 11, July-December 1536, ed. James Gairdner( London, 1888), British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol11/pp210-221 [accessed 27 July 2024].

'Henry VIII: October 1536, 1-5', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 11, July-December 1536. Edited by James Gairdner( London, 1888), British History Online, accessed July 27, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol11/pp210-221.

"Henry VIII: October 1536, 1-5". Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 11, July-December 1536. Ed. James Gairdner(London, 1888), , British History Online. Web. 27 July 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol11/pp210-221.

Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image

October 1536, 1-5

R. O. 521. Ireland.
"Note of certain remembrances," evidently from Mr. Treasurer Brabazon, to be declared by Mr. Body to Cromwell.
1. That the Law may be "removed" until the country be better established, to Catherlogh or Kilkenny; for little revenue is paid except where the King's laws be, and to keep them elsewhere than in Dublin would tend to quiet the King's subjects and confound the Irish. To keep the laws at Catherlogh or Kilkenny would save 60l. paid in fees to officers of the county of Wexford, all but the 5l. fee to the constable of the castle. 2. Catherlough county is wasted by burning and killing, and also by the plague; to have the laws kept there would cause it to be inhabited. 3. Of late Parliament here granted a subsidy for 10 years. It has been paid hitherto only in Dublin, Meath, Uriel, and Kildare: if the law were kept it would, "as I think," be paid also in Kilkenny, Waterford, Tipperary, &c. 4. A commission should be sent to grant pardons to such as have been indicted for this late rebellion, and being in doubt of their lives are driven to combine with the Irish. 5. In last session of Parliament it was thought that a resumption would be made of the custom of Waterford and other towns, but the recorder of Waterford showed a proviso signed by the King in their behalf, and the matter was dropped. Thinks that the towns might at least pay some part to the King's revenues. In some towns men strive to be mayors and officers for the sake of the money they may then spend. 6. The King is at great charge with the army, which he pays after the rate of sterling money. Parliament should provide that the only coin current should be sterling coin of the print of the harp. I have disbursed about 1,500l., Irish, among the soldiers, which is but 1,000l. sterling; if it had been of the print of the harp it would have saved 500l. 7. An Act of Parliament must be made that constables of castles in Ireland should dwell thereupon, for now they take the profits and let the castles fall to ruin. 8. If the country between Dublin and Wexford, where dwell the Toolez, Birnes, and Cavenaghs, is to be reformed the King should part with none of his lands on the borders. Policy must be used in subduing these Irishmen, for when the other Irish see the King's army begin to expulse them they will think their turn will come next. 9. Thos. Fitzgerot should be examined as to who has the custody of the ledger book of Kildare's lands. 10. There is great need of clerks. Please let "my kinsman, John Brabazon," come hither with two or three clerks. 11. The suppression of the houses of religion mentioned in the King's commission is deferred until they have sown the winter corn, which will augment the King's revenue. St. Thomas Court in the suburbs of Dublin should also be suppressed and be worth 700 mks. or 800 mks. to the revenue. 12. After the death of the lord of Kilmainham all the possessions of that religion should be brought to the King. 13. The attainder of Sir James Fitzgerot and his brethren in England must be certified into Ireland, that the King may take possession of their lands. 14. In last sessions of Parliament it was nigh concluded that the King should have a 20th of the spiritualty; upon the King's letter directed hither it will take effect. 15. Please send an abstract of how first fruits in England are ordered, which may be followed here to the King's profit.
Hol., pp. 8. Numbers not in original.
1 Oct.
R. O.
522. Lord Darcy.
"1 Octob. Ao. 1536."—"Md. The names of knights, squires, and gentlemen, and their numbers (fn. 1) of household servants, promised to serve the King is grace in the company and at the leading of Thos. 1. Darcy or his deputy, as he appoints upon an hour's warning."
Wapen. of Morley:—Henricus Savile, miles, Sir Robt. Nevile, 24, John Copley, Wm. Calverley, (fn. 2) Sir Chr. Danby, John Lacy, (fn. 2) Wm. Legh, (fn. 2) Wm. Gascoigne, (fn. 2) Ralph Beaston, (fn. 2) Peter Mirfeld, Robt. Eland. (fn. 2) Rich. Jenkynson of Birstall.
Wapen. of Agbrigge:—Ricus. Beamount, (fn. 2) Arthur Key, (fn. 2) John Wodd, Thomas Beamount, John Shefeld, (fn. 2) John Flemynge, (fn. 2) Charles Jakson, (fn. 2) Arthur Pylkynton, squire, (fn. 2) Wm. Frost, Robert Friston, John Barneby, pauper, John Storr, Thomas Frost.
Wapen. of Osgodcrosse next Doncaster:—Sir John Wentworth, (fn. 2) with Philip his son, John Seyntpole, (fn. 2) Christopher Wentworth, (fn. 2) John Hamerton, (fn. 2) Robt. Trigott, (fn. 2) Thomas Wentworth, Chr. Bradford, (fn. 2) Nich. Ellys, (fn. 2) John Wakefeld. (fn. 2) (In margin at this point "Villa Pont," i.e. Pontefract), Thos. Oglesthorpe, (fn. 2) Wm. Halyday, James Woderove, (fn. 2) Wm. Arthyngton, (fn. 2) Baldwin Yonge. (fn. 2)
Wapen. of Stayncrosse:—Thomas Wentworth, knight, John Burton, knight, Ric. Burdett, Esq., (fn. 2) Ric. Kexforde, Esq., (fn. 2) Thomas Woderove, (fn. 2) Ric. Whete ley, (fn. 3) Alex. Boswell, pauper, Thos. Boswell, "lord Steward's servant and extra," Charles Barneby, (fn. 3) Thos. Wentworth, (fn. 3) Tristram Tempest.
Wapen. of Skyrak:—John Gascoigne, esq., Wm. Ellys, esq., Gilbert Scott, esq., John Grenefelde, esq., Wm. Dyneley, John More, Robert Norton, (fn. 3) Wm. Scargill, Henry Skelton.
Wapen. of Barkeston:—Henry Everyngam, knight (23), Henry Rither, esq. (20), Wm. Hungate, esq., Thos. Ledys, Ant. Hawmond, my lady Skargill.
"Hereafter followeth other of the King's grace's servants and my friends":—Richard Redeman, 24, John Hull, 2, John Anne, (fn. 4) 3, Sir Wm. Gaskwyn, the elder, 100. Knaresburgh [no names].
Pp. 9. The title and some corrections are in Darcy's own hand. A few of the names seem to be signatures; and then sometimes a person has added opposite his own name on the list "myself and one," or some such note.
R.O. 2. Md. for the most special wines, white, French and Gascon. Item, my saddle after the pattern or larger at the sadler's advice. Item, at Mr. John three pair of the "best, purest and largest and best coloured tawne sprus or Spanish skyns (?)."
P. 1. In lord Darcy's hand. Endd. Ao. 1536, 1 O[ct]ober, "my chekerroller whits for. ketts, and be good at layser to look upon."
1 Oct.
R. O.
523. Thomas Lord Lawarr to Cromwell.
Your manifold goodness doth daily bind me to pray for your lordship. You wrote me that the King was advertised Sir Jeffrye Pole did enter by force into the park of Slendon, willing me, in the King's name, to "avyse" him to avoid the same, and suffer the lord Mawtravers' servants to enjoy it; and first to show him your letter, and if he would not leave possession for that, then to show him the King's pleasure. I sent your letter, and he told my servant he would send an answer, which he did by one of his servants, sending me your lordship's letter to read. When I had read it I said, "Will not your master follow my lord's pleasure ?" and the servant said, Yes; but his master desired that he might tarry all night there. Then I said I did command him in the King's name to avoid without any tarrying. Next day was the sessions, and my lord Mawtravers sent to Sir Wm. Shellye and Sir Wm. Gorynge for to look upon the riot, and I showed them your letter, whereupon he was indicted, and they that were with him, 10 or 12 in number, who were all his own servants, and some of them with bows and arrows. At my poor house, 1 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1 Oct.
R. O.
524. John Tregonwell to Cromwell.
Today, on the highway between Blandford and Salisbury, towards London, received Cromwell's letters asking for his lanner to present the King with. She is at the mew at Langley. Will send her with all diligence. Salisbury, 1 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
1 Oct.
R. O.
525. Sir Richard Bulkeley to Cromwell.
Touching Edward Gruff's (Griffith's) suit to you to have his tenants exempted from my rule; since my return from the Court and your Lordship I have meddled with none of his tenants, and will not, except it be at the suit of party. If I use myself towards the said Edward and his tenants contrary to right and equity, the King's commissioners on the Marches, and the justice here, will see redress; but I intend to give them no reason of complaint. Bewmares, 1 Oct.
Item.—Will send you some of your money betwixt this and Allhallowtide. Stay my lord Chancellor from making any justices of the peace within the three shires of North Wales, for I know Doctor Glyn and Edward Gruff will give him large sums to be made justices of the peace.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
2 Oct.
Hearne's Sylloge, 143.
526. Princess Mary to Henry VIII.
Thanks for his daily goodness and fatherly pity. Hopes by faithful obedience to "redubbe" that she has offended. Prays for his health with the granting of his "noble and virtuous desires." Hertford, 2 Oct.
2 Oct.
R. O.
527. Elizabeth Shelley, Abbess [of St. Mary's, Winchester], (fn. 5) to Lady Lisle.
Has received from her servant this summer a side of venison and 2½ doz. "pewetes," but not the armyn cap, which she writes that she sends for her daughter. (fn. 6) Has received the tawny velvet gown. Sends by the bearer her daughter's black velvet gown. Has caused kirtles to be made of her old gowns. Sends an account of how she has spent the 10s. which lady Lisle sent. 2 Oct.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
3 Oct.
Vienna Archives.
528. Chapuys to Charles V.
Although Cromwell promised, as I last wrote to your Majesty, to come hither immediately, he did not arrive till four days ago. The day after he came he sent to tell me that he thought I had already written to your Majesty the answer the King had given me, viz., that he was ready to renew the old amities, but without prejudice to those he had with France, for otherwise it would impair his honor, and particularly his profit (which, in my opinion, is but the old song); and if you would consent to his mediation, he would employ himself therein lovingly and confidently. Cromwell requested that if I had not written thus I would do so at once, and use every effort to advance matters, and he would do the like. I sent to request an interview with him, but he delayed me till the second day upon another pretext; but it was only because he would not speak to me except in presence of the bishop of Chichester, both to avert the King's suspicions and for his discharge towards me, seeing that he had been disavowed in several things that he had said to me in private.
Being, accordingly, with these two, they told me, in the first place, that they had not for a long time seen the King so angry as when he heard of the offers your Majesty had made to the Pope to his prejudice (I wrote of this in my last, and should never have thought that I could have softened the King's anger half so well as I had done), and that I had left him free from all suspicion of the said news, and consequently well disposed towards friendship with your Majesty, who, as they said, ought to have some consideration for the good offices you have received from the King, and how your affairs had always prospered when there was perfect intelligence between you. Moreover, this King's character should be taken into account, who required the most gentle treatment, especially from your Majesty;—that he recognised no superior, and would not have anyone imagine that he could be led by force or fear;—and that in proportion to your exalted dignity it would become you to treat him with the greatest possible courtesy, especially at this juncture in your affairs; that you might be sure that in beginning, by some means, a restoration of the ancient amity you would have the King absolutely at your disposal; and that it would not be right to go to sleep about it, considering the vigilance, babble, importunity, and diabolical inventions of the French, who, by words, gifts, and promises endeavoured to blind and gull the whole world; and it was not their fault if they had not lately gained Cromwell, offering him a pension of 2,000 ducats and some large presents, but they were not likely to attach him to their line; moreover, there was no time to lose, that preparations might be made for the spring; and as to themselves, they had no other wish than to abate the insolence and brag of these Frenchmen, which was quite insufferable, especially since they heard of Nassau's retreat, and afterwards of that of your Majesty, which, as Cromwell showed me by letters, they represented as a shameful, disordered flight, adding that the Italians had come over to their camp, and the Germans had fortified themselves and seized artillery, and that Veseyl and Pavia were lost, the false colouring (desguisement) of which news was immediately discovered, especially as to the retreat of your Majesty, which is here considered to have been as honorable and triumphant as possible.
On my reminding them of some of the honorable, loving, and courteous words that you had written and caused to be used to the King, they replied that it was all most excellent, but that quicksighted persons would attribute it rather to the dexterity of writers and reporters rather than to the frank, perfect, and sincere will of your Majesty, to show which you would do well to write the King a letter in your own hand, containing, among other things, that there was no need any longer to recall things past, but to strive henceforth who would be foremost in offices of true brotherhood. At that time Cromwell did not reply what he had several times said to me before, viz., that he would have gladly wished you had prayed this king to join with you against the common enemy [and usurper] of the property of both. I replied that it was their fault in not informing me sooner, that the said letter had not been sooner written, and that Cromwell might remember I had several times said to him that, if necessary, you would not object to write, or even to send some personage, but he had never told me there was any need. This he acknowledged, saying it came nearer the point now than ever, and he would have paid 1,000l. stg. that you would send at once some gentleman of those about you with a letter under your own hand as aforesaid. On my naming several of those in your Court, they thought Mons. de Montfalconct one of the most fit for the charge; and to persuade me that you ought to do so, they alleged that the French king wrote to their master almost every month once or twice with his own hand, and sent besides sometimes some of his gentlemen.
I told them, that since that was their opinion, trusting in their prudence and the devotion they had always shown to your Majesty, I would do my best to procure the said despatch; nevertheless, if it was only for the purpose of which the King had spoken, viz., to treat of a new league and amity without prejudice to the treaties the King had with France, I did not see the use of such a treaty, as that of Cambray remained in full force, as the King and Cromwell himself had several times confessed. At this they remained a while thoughtful, without knowing what to reply, and afterwards said it was true they had no charge to speak to me further than the King had done; but they were almost sure that a beginning being once made of a demonstration of sincere amity and benevolence, your Majesty would dispose of the said king at your will. The bishop began to enlarge on this, and I think he wished to intimate that one of the principal points the King was seeking in case of a declaration against France was that you would make good his pensions and arrears, but Cromwell cut him short, saying to him in English that it was not time yet to put that forward, which might spoil the rest; and after some further conversation Cromwell said to me that the said envoy would also be useful in speaking of the marriage of the Princess and other articles contained in my charge, except those which concerned the authority of the Pope, of which no more mention must be made if we would not lose our pains and spoil the whole business.
Your Majesty, by your experience and wisdom will judge better than any other what importance to attach to the words of those here and to what end they solicit the sending of a person and letters. I think, however, whatever they intend it could not but do good, were it only to have discharged more than mere duty to them (de sestre mys en plusque devoir envers ceulx ci), and it might be that God in this extreme necessity will inspire them to do better than they have done hitherto. Mr. Quin (qu. Paulet ?), who is of the Privy Council, told the bp. of Carlisle yesterday, who reported it to me, that he believed the King would declare himself for your Majesty if you would assure him of his pensions, and he attached much weight to what the King had said to me ("et tendoit (?) ce que le Roy me replica") two or three times lately that he was well paid his pensions and would not lose them or take an uncertain thing for a certain. Please let me know your pleasure on this point.
In the end Cromwell told me that his master remained quite satisfied with me; that shortly after my departure he took suddenly a sort of remorse that he had not dismissed me in a more cheerful manner; and that when Cromwell was leaving his chamber he told him he had no doubt I had left very ill pleased, because instead of concluding the affairs that I solicited, I found my object further removed than before, and the said Cromwell would do [well] to console me and keep me in hope. Cromwell, who, as I last wrote to your Majesty, was to make answer to me of what I sent to say to him by my man the day after I had spoken to the said King, made no mention of it to me whatever, neither did I to him.
The Queen's coronation which was to have taken place at the end of this month is put off till next summer, and some doubt it will not take place at all. There is no appearance that she will have children. The delay of the coronation will do no harm except that the coming of the Princess to Court is put off till it takes place, and if it be delayed neither her affairs nor those of your Majesty will be the better for it. London, 3 Oct. 1536.
Fr., from a modern copy, pp. 6. The original is endorsed: "De l'ambassadeur en Angleterre des xxii. de Septembre, iiie et viie d'Octobre receues le xxvie dud. Octobre en Gennes."
3 Oct.
R. O.
529. H. Earl Of Northumberland to Cromwell.
Thanks for Cromwell's kindness, especially in getting the King to give the writer certain gorgeous and sumptuous apparel of his own wearing. The king granted him the preferment of three abbeys, he to pay for them at the King's officers' valuation. Two of these he has by the King's bill, i.e., Hexham for Sir Raynold Carnaby and Ykelington for his physician, Dr. Wendy; the third, Newmynster, given at the Earl's request by the King's word to the chancellor of Augmentations to William Grene, one of his Grace's officers in the North. As he is openly reported to have them of the King it will be a great discomfort to be disappointed. Trusts in Cromwell's favor. Touching Hexham knows Cromwell's favor for Sir Raynold. As for the other two there are no leases made out, but bare letters; previous to which the King's bill was signed touching Ykclington for Dr. Wendy; and, for Newminster, Grene had letters of entry signed by all the officers, before Welstropp had any interest therein. As for Welstropp for Newminster, " whom I never took as my friend," and one Shether for Ykclington; begs Cromwell will provide for them otherwise. Credence for bearer. Newyngton Green, 3 Oct. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.: Lord Cromwell Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
3 Oct.
R. O.
530. H. Earl Of Northumberland to Wriothesley.
Desires him to help the bearer, the Earl's servant, to an audience with my Lord Privy Seal and to his dispatch in certain causes, which finished, the Earl will repair northwards. Newyngton Grene, 3 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Sealed. Add. Endd.
3 Oct.
Vesp. F. XIII. 116. B. M.
531. John [Lord] Hussey to Robt. Sutton, Mayor of Lincoln, and Vincent Grauntham.
Heard at 9 o'clock this morning from the dean of Lincoln that there is a company of false rebellious knaves risen in Lyndsey. Commands him to see the city of Lincoln surely kept, so that no such evil disposed rebellious persons can pass through it; to be ready with such company as he can make, to suppress them; to take up the bows and arrows in the bowyers' and fletchers' hands at a reasonable price; to handle the matter secretly, and if he thinks he is unable to resist, to send word to Hussey, who will come to his aid. Sleford, Tuesday, 3 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.
[3 Oct.]
R. O.
532. [Lord Hussey] to Mr. Moigne.
Wonders at his sending him such a letter without getting the worshipful men there to set their hands to it. Desires to know by the bearer whether the said company do come forwards or go home again, and whether my lord Burgh and others will appoint that the writer may meet with them; for he will be at Lincoln either tomorrow night or on Thursday morning to meet them if they will come thither. Sleaford, Tuesday night at 9.
P. 1. In the hand of lord Hussey's clerk. Endd.: The copy of a letter to Mr. Moynge.
3 Oct.
R. O.
533. Thomas [Lord] Burgh to Henry VIII.
Sir William Askew, and other your Grace's commissioners of your subsidy appointed to sit at Caster this Tuesday, requiring me, Sir Robert Tyrwytt, and others, to be with them; suddenly came there a great multitude of people from Loweth, and was within a mile of us. Thereupon the inhabitants made us a direct answer that they would pay no more silver, and caused the bells to be rung "a larome." There was no remedy but to return to our houses, and the people so fast pursued that they have taken Sir Robt. Tyrwytt, Sir William Askew, Thomas Portyngton, Sir Thomas Messendyn, Thomas Mowne, with other gentlemen. I hear the commonalty increase to them "and I fear will do more, because they have taken the gentlemen who have the governance in those parts under your Highness." I have sent to my lord Steward, the lord Darssy and others to be in readiness "to make them a breakfast." Sanby, Tuesday night, 3 Oct.
Begs credence for his fellow, Robert Shawe, the King's servant, the bearer. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.: Thomas Burgh.
3 Oct.
R. O.
534. Sir Robt. Tyrwhyt and three others to Henry VIII.
This 3rd October we, by your commission for levying your second payment of your subsidy, were assembled at Caster, Linc. There were, at our coming, within a mile of the town 20,000 of your "true and faithful subjects" assembled because the report went that all jewels and goods of the churches were to be taken away to your Grace's Council, and the people put to new charges. They swore us to be true to your Grace and to take their parts and then conveyed us from Caster to Louth, 12 miles distant, where we remain till they know further of your gracious pleasure. Desire a general pardon, "or else we be in such danger that we be never like to see your Grace nor our own houses," as the bearer can show, for whom we beg credence. Your said subjects have desired us to write that they are at your command "for the defence of your person or your realm." Signed: Robt. Tyrwhyt.—William Ayscugh.—Edward Madeson.—Thomas Portyngton.
P. 1. Endd.
4 Oct.
R. O.
535. H. earl of Northumberland to Cromwell.
Has this day heard, by Sir Reynold Carnabye's servant, the bearer, and by a letter to him (Sir Reynold) from his father, sent herewith, of the obstinate and traitorous demeanour of the canons of Hexham. Credence for bearer. As the King's officer there, he is bound to advertise Cromwell of this, although the commissioners there will no doubt do so at length. Begs to know what to do. Newyngton Green, 4 Oct.
P.S. in his own hand.—If your Lordship think meet, I will wait upon the King's grace on this. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Cromwell lord Privy Seal. Endd. Sealed.
4 Oct.
R. O.
536. G. earl of Shrewsbury to Henry VIII.
This morning one Meryng of Sonbye, Notts., came to me from lord Burrowe to show me that your Commons about Horne Castle were assembled to the number of 3,000. The assembly began on Saturday last, and yesterday they sent to my lord Burrowe to be their captain or else they would pull him out of his house at Gaynysburrowe this day, whereupon he came by night to Meryng's house. They had taken your commissioners of subsidy, viz., Sir Wm. Askewe, Tyrwyt, and Skypwyth, knights, and Turney and Portyngton, esquires, and sworn them to be true to Horne Castle and them. Also they had taken your Grace's surveyors at the priory of Lowth park, Linc., and burnt their books before their faces. I had no notice in writing but he that brought me the message is a substantial gentleman. Begs to know what to do. At my poor lodge in Shefeld Park, 4 Oct. Signed: "G. Shrouesbury."
P. 1. Add: "In haste." Endd.
4 Oct.
Eg. MS. 2603. f. 20. B. M.
537. G. Earl of Shrewsbury to —
Understands that divers of the King's subjects have assembled in great numbers, contrary to their duties and allegiance. Intends to advance against them and desires him to meet him at Mansfield to-morrow night with as many men as he can make. At my lodge in Sheffield Park, 4 Oct.
Copy, p. 1. Add.: To the King's highness. Endd. My lord Steward.
4 Oct.
R. O.
538. John lord Huse to Cromwell.
There is a company of light persons risen in the furthest side of Lyndesay, as your Lordship will perceive by this letter which I send by bearer. Sleford, 4 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
4 Oct.
R. O.
539. Sir Robert Tyrw[hyt] and others to Lord Hussey.
We have sent by these bearers to know whether you will "come and aid the commonalty in their service to God, the King, and the common wealth of this realm;" if not, "the commonalty will in all haste come and seek you as their utter enemy." Send us answer by these bearers, to whom please give further credence. Louthe, Wednesday, 4 Oct. Signed: Robt. Tyrw[hyt].—William Ayscugh.—William Skipwith.—Andrew Byllesby.—Thoms. (?) Myssendyn. (fn. 7) —Thomas Portyngton.—Edward Forsste. —Thomas Moig[ne].
P. 1. Add. Endd.
4 Oct.
R. O. S.P. ii. 370.
540. Robt. Cowley to Cromwell.
Complains that certain acts have been rejected in the Commons House here by certain "ringleaders or bellwethers," who have decided to send two of their number to England to argue stiffly against them. Patrick Bernewell, the King's sergeant, is one of their principal champions, who with all his lineage were great adherents of the late earl of Kildare. As to the suppression, the reasons that served to suppress abbeys in England might serve here, where they do not keep such good rule and show no hospitality except to their concubines and children and to certain "bellwethers," to whom they give good fees, and who are, therefore, loath to see them suppressed. As to the act for resumption of customs, cocketts, and poundage to the King, shows there is now nothing against it. As to the third Act, the grant of the 20th (28 Hen. VIII. c. 14), all the Upper House is content with it, and the sticking is in the Commons' House " by seduction of certain prescribed." There are few in the English Pale but might be attainted for their adherence to Thos. Fitzgerald, and the King now exhausts his treasure in their defence, yet they stick at so small a benevolence as this. The subsidy of ploughlands is an old thing continued since Poynings' time. The possessions of absentees and the annates pertain not to the Commons. Barnewell the serjeant, who now repairs thither, said in the Commons' House he would not grant that the King had as much spiritual power as the bishop of Rome, and he could not dissolve religious houses but only correct enormities. All the judges take bribes, the Chief Justice like the rest. Although he has 100l. a year, a fee upon which his predecessors kept great households, he keeps none but at the King's expense. Begs that according to Cromwell's letters to Mr. Treasurer he may be farmer of Holm Patrick, if dissolved, or else surveyor. To be near the Deputy, has removed from the place where he dwelt and left his fees there, trusting to have Holmpatrick. Dublin, 4 Oct.
Hol. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd.
4 Oct.
R. O.
541. Adam Otterburn to Cromwell.
Requests a passport for the bearer, who is going into France. Edinburgh, 4 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. Endd. erroneously, Octo primo.
4 Oct.
Add. MS. 8715 f. 288 b. B. M.
542. Bishop of Faenza to Mons. Ambrogio.
* * * Francis is going towards Bles, where they say the king of Scotland will be, and that his marriage with the daughter of Vandomo will be celebrated. The king of Scotland is coming post ("Si e melso (fn. 8) su le poste,") and should be here tomorrow.
Ital. Modern copy, pp. 4. Headed: Al Signor Protonotario Ambrogio. Da Lione, li 4 Ottobre 1536.
R. O. 543. Duke of Norfolk to Cromwell.
Nic. Sampson, brother to the bishop of Chichester, has just come, saying that about a month ago divers folks from Lincolnshire reported that anyone who would go thither at Michaelmas should have honest living, for diking and fowling, whereupon four or five who worked with him all this harvest have gone thither. Yesterday one asked his advice about going, and he bade him pain of his life nay. Has commanded him to send the said fellow to Sir Thos. Russhe to be examined. These words suggest that it has been a thing long determined. Signed by Norfolk and Sampson.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal and other of the Council. Sealed. Endd.
[5 Oct.]
R. O.
544. Henry VIII. to —.
"The minute of the letters for Exam."
The King is informed that against the time appointed by the commissioners for the dissolution of petty monasteries in those parts for their repair to the house of Hexam, the canons and other evil disposed persons assembled to withstand them, and would have made further attemptates in forcible array if the commissioners had not withdrawn themselves. They also made resolute answer that they would lose their lives before the law was executed against them. You shall therefore assemble all the force you can make, with such others as we have appointed to do the like, either to apprehend them" by way of their submission," or if they will not yield, to treat them as arrant traitors and put the commissioners in possession.
Draft in Wriotheley's hand, pp. 3. Endd.
5 Oct.
Harl. MS. 442, f. 134. B. M.
545. Proclamation about Woollen Cloth.
Mandate to the mayor and bailiffs of Chichester to make proclamation delaying the enforcement of a recent statute [27 Hen. VIII. c. 12] regulating the lengths and breadths of woollen cloths till Michaelmas next, to allow time to the weavers, tuckers, fullers, &c. to procure looms, "sleyes," and other instruments convenient for the making of the same accordingly. Westm., 5 Oct. 28 Hen. VIII.
Modern copy, pp. 2.
5 Oct.
R. O. [1536–7.]
546. Jo. prior of Merton to Cromwell.
Received, 5 October, Cromwell's letters of the 2nd, concerning a complaint of a woman called Elene Bowes. If Cromwell or she will send some learned man to investigate it, the prior will show his court rolls, and if any fault can be found in him, will recompense as Cromwell shall adjudge. Merton, 5 Oct.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
5 Oct.
R. O.
547. John lord H[use] to Cromwell.
The country is becoming more and more rebellious. They are today coming towards Lincoln, but not in such great numbers, I believe, as it is noised. I have called my countrymen, and most part say they will be glad to defend me, but I shall not trust them to fight against the rebels. Sleford, Thursday, 5 Oct. Signed.
Since writing seven of the company came to me and brought me the enclosed letter.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal.
5 Oct.
R. O.
548. Wm. Welifed to Cromwell.
A letter expressing his gratitude for the kindness of Cromwell, his uncle, and the praise of the people at his having assumed a troublesome office from love to the commonwealth. St. John's College, Cambridge, 5 Oct.
Hol., Lat., p. 1. Add.: Domino Privati Sigilli. Endd.
R. O. 549. Wm. Wellefed to Cromwell.
Never thinks about the kindness of his uncle Cromwell without blaming himself for not taking more pains to preserve his honor and fulfil his duty. Blames himself for not having written to him before. Hearing that his tutor was going to London, sent this letter.
Hol. Lat., p. 1. Add.: Domino Privati Sigilli. Endd.
R. O. 550. Wm. Wellyfed to Cromwell.
Accuses himself of having despised God's laws, abused Cromwell's kindness, and wasted his time and money. Has obtained leave to write from his guardian (custos) to whom he is under the greatest obligation for his divine counsel, and beseeches him to lay aside his anger. Cromwell cannot inflict a greater punishment than he deserves, nor greater than he will willingly undergo. There is another thing which alone grieves him, which if he could overcome, he would be considered not as a relation, but as one of his hired servants.
Hol. Lat., p. 1. Add.: Domino Privati Sigilli. Endd.
R. O. 551. Wm. Wellyfed to Cromwell.
Remembers the faults of his old life with tears. Enlarges on Cromwell's kindness to him, and offers to submit to any punishment. Asks for books that he may spend this suitable time in literature.
Hol. Lat., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
5 Oct.
R. O.
552. [Sir] M. Constable and Robert Tyrwhyt to Cromwell.
This Thursday at 9 o'clock they arrived at Stilton, where they met an honest priest who had come from Lowth, and had found all Horncastle up, and had been forced to take this oath: "Ye shall swear to be true to Almighty God, to Christ's Catholic Church, to our Sovereign Lord the King, and unto the Commons of this realm; so help you God and Holydam and by this book." On Tuesday the priest supped with the dean of Lincoln at Tatsall, and the dean had a letter from John Hennyges' wife, saying that 10,000 were up between Horncastle and Lowth. Lord Hussy is ridden to Lincoln to ask the cause of the insurrection. Sent the lord of Huntingdon, Sir John Villers, and Sir William Aparr, their letters from Huntingdon, and will send the lord Steward's from Stamford. Intend to be this night at Lincoln. Stellton, Thursday, 5 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
5 Oct.
R. O.
553. [Sir] M. Constable and Robert Tyrwhyt to Cromwell.
After our letter to you this day from Stylton we went towards Lincoln, and at Ankyster a gentleman showed us that the rebels have taken all the knights and gentlemen of Lynsse. They are over 20,000 from all the market towns of Lynsay.
Yesterday they wrote to the mayor of Lincoln, "and cousin Sir Robt. Tyrwhit, Sir Willm. Askew, Sir Thomas Myssyndyn, with others being in their wards and keeping," to prepare the town to receive them on Saturday next. They are in four or five parts of Lynsay as Luth, Horncastyll, Kastur, and Est Rasyn. Their petition is for pardon and that they may keep holydays, &c. as before, that suppressed religious houses may stand, and that they be no more taxed; they would also fain have you. There must be other provision made to subdue them than the strength of these parts, for they increase daily. We have written to my lord Steward and lord Hussey where we intend to await the King's further pleasure. The bearer, Mr. Barmston, who has been with Hussey can inform you. Ankastyr, Thursday, 5 Oct, at 8 p.m. Signed.
In Constable's hand, pp. 2. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd.
5 Oct.
R. O.
554. Ph. de Crequy to Lord Lisle.
I have commissioned the bearer Antoine le Vadre, bailly of Ardre, and man at arms of my company, to go to you and inquire your news. I desire your leave to buy some coal. Terouenne, 5 Oct. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: Deputy of Calais.

Footnotes

  • 1. The numbers given opposite the names are generally only two or three, and are here for the most part omitted.
  • 2. These have added, apparently in their own hands, the number they will bring, for instance "myself and I," and so on.
  • 3. These have added, apparently in their own hands, the number they will bring, for instance "myself and I," and so on.
  • 4. Ann's name also appears above under Osgoderosse where it has been cancelled and marked "exa."
  • 5. This letter may be of the year 1535, or earlier, as the abbey of St. Mary's, Winchester, was suppressed among the smaller monasteries in the spring of 1536. But it appears to have been refounded, and was ultimately surrendered by Eliz. Shelley, as abbess, in 1540.
  • 6. Her stepdaughter, Bridget, the daughter of lord Lisle.
  • 7. The signature is very peculiar, especially the christian name, which no one would read Thomas if it were not known to be so from other sources.
  • 8. Error for messo.