Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 12 Part 1, January-May 1537. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1890.
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'Henry VIII: January 1537, 11-15', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 12 Part 1, January-May 1537, ed. James Gairdner( London, 1890), British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol12/no1/pp30-50 [accessed 14 December 2024].
'Henry VIII: January 1537, 11-15', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 12 Part 1, January-May 1537. Edited by James Gairdner( London, 1890), British History Online, accessed December 14, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol12/no1/pp30-50.
"Henry VIII: January 1537, 11-15". Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 12 Part 1, January-May 1537. Ed. James Gairdner(London, 1890), , British History Online. Web. 14 December 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol12/no1/pp30-50.
January 1537, 11–15
11 Jan. R. O. |
62. SEDITIOUS RUMORS. |
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Information against Richard Birche, of Southwark, glover, for saying, on 11 Jan. 28 Hen. VIII., in a boat coming from London to Greenwich, that the King and his Council had sent proclamations to the North that no children should be christened unless there were a tribute paid to the King, and many children were unchristened for a fortnight or three weeks because their fathers and mothers were not able to pay. Signed by Ninian Saunderson, citizen of London, Humfrey Sexton, citizen of Limerick, Thos. White, servant of Lord Jas. Butler, Treasurer of Ireland, and Ric. Corke, citizen and armourer of London. | |
P. 1. | |
11 Jan. R. O. |
63. GEORGE LORD COBHAM and SIR CHR. HALES to CROMWELL. |
We now being at Rochester for business of the bridge there, Petyte, my (fn. 1) clerk, reported that Ric. Stanold, a servant of Edward Monyns, newly come from London, said that the earl of Cumberland had taken a castle against the King, and having refused to come to his Highness when summoned, the King had ordered him to send his son in his stead, when he refused, and said he would keep his hold; also that the King was sending ordnance against the Earl. On examination the said Richard said that a Kendal man now in Rochester reported this at Dartford to a servant of Anth. Aucher's, who has now ridden to London. We then sent for the Kendal man, who utterly denied it. A mercer of Feversham now in Rochester, whom the said Richard affirmed to have heard the Kendal man say so, denied it, but said that the said Richard had told him he heard the Kendal man say so. Recommend Cromwell to send for Mr. Aucher's servant. Have bound the said Richard for his appearance. The Kendal man, whose name is George Harryson, aged 42, servant to Robert Bynlesse, of Kendal, is in ward at Rochester. Rochester, 11 Jan. Signed. | |
P. 1. Add.: Privy Seal. | |
11 Jan. R. O. |
64. SIR MARMADUKE CONSTABLE to CROMWELL and FITZWILLIAM. |
His neighbours of the east of Yorkshire, if not better stayed by the coming of the lord of Norfolk shortly, are like to make new commotions; on Saturday and Sunday last men of Beverley (saying ordnance had come by night to Hull, and that the King would lay garrisons there and at Scarborough and Pomfret, which they would not suffer till after the Parliament), and of Holderness (hearing the King had commanded the Abp. of York to levy the Subsidy and Tenth, and upon news out of Lincolnshire) made rumours and sent to one Hallom, who was a captain of Yorkswold. On Monday night William Babthorp showed him Robert Aske was come home, and though he had already sent a friend who had stayed Hallom, he sent straight to Aske. Aske at once wrote to the town of Beverley to stay Hallom, and next day came himself, and in the common hall declared the King's love for the North and how his Grace would hold Parliament and have the Queen crowned at York. This stayed them well; yet if Robt. Crak, "deputy to Mr. Pagge, of his office there," had not stayed them the better, they had burned beacons on Saturday night. Fears the North Riding most now. Lord Darcy stays the parts about Pomfret, and all the gentlemen do the same in their parts. Everyngham, 11 Jan. | |
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Lord Privy Seal and Lord Admiral, or either of them. Endd. | |
R. O. | 65. PRIORY of WATTON, YORKSHIRE. |
The subprior and convent of Our Lady of Watton, Yorksh., complain of the conduct of the late prior of St. Katharine's, near Lincoln, who has taken upon himself to be their prior, and to be master of their religion. Considering the great danger they have lately incurred by the commons of the country, who have expelled the prior of St. Katharine's from Watton, and will not suffer them to receive their rents, nor will their tenants pay till they have a new prior, have elected A.B.C. prior, hoping that he will please God, the King, and the brethren of the religion, and have set the convent seal to this instrument in the chapter house "the day and yere aboufe writen." | |
Pp. 2. Draft in Bigod's hand. The commencement wanting. Endd.: Thys is the wrytyng of Sir Francys Bygott hawn hand within. | |
R. O. | 66. SIR RALPH EVERS to SIR JOHN BULMER. |
I have received your letter and credence by your servant Lysle, and am sorry your neighbours are so inquiet, for the King is gracious, and pities his offending subjects; in truth I heard him say he had not only forgiven them by his writing, but in his heart, and wished that it should be taken "but for a dream." The herald reported your diligent service, and the King determined you a letter of thanks, which I should have brought down but this last insurrection made me hurry so. The duke of Norfolk is to be at Doncaster the last day of January, and till his letters go to the gentlemen none are to stir. The appointment at London was that you should attend the Duke with 10 servants, or your brother Sir William with six, if you were ill. I send you articles of such orders as I have taken since coming home. In his own hand: "I pray you have me recommended to my lady your wife.—Rauff Eure. | |
P. 1. Add. | |
12 Jan .R. O. |
67. ROBERT ASKE to HENRY VIII. |
After my coming into Yorkshire, Sir Marmaduke Constable wrote me that the commons of Yorkeswold, Beverley, and Holderness were disposed for new commotions, because it was put into their heads that Hull was being fortified against them, and because of the Tenth demanded by my lord Archbishop, &c. I repaired to Beverley and declared your gracious benignity, which they were very joyous to hear, "and especially to see your Grace amongst them;" thus I put them in assurance to the coming of the duke of Norfolk. At my repairing home from Beverley, Sir Marmaduke again wrote of the wildness of the people about Ripon and Richmondshire. Thereupon I went to Lord Darcy and Sir Robt. Constable and moved them to stay the people about them, and sent to my friends about Ripon to declare my coming home and your Grace's benignity. To-morrow I will repair thither, though it is 30 miles from me. Subjects of conjecture:—(1.) The people think "they shall not have the Parliament in convenient time." (2.) Your Grace has written for most of the worshipful men. (3.) They are "in doubt of your Grace's pardon, by reason of a late book answering the first five articles." (4.) They fear the fortifying of holds, especially as it is said the duke of Norfolk will remain at Hull. (5.) The Tenth is demanded. (6.) My Lord Privy Seal is in as great favour as ever. | |
If the worshipful men now with your Grace or the duke of Norfolk do not briefly return, they will be up again. This day I hear bills are set on church doors, to be ready at an hour's warning. The worshipful men seem minded to see good order till the Parliament time, and rejoice that your Grace is coming to these parts. In all the shires, as I came homewards, I perceived the people "wildly minded in their hearts towards commotions." Wherefore pardon my rude writing; it is that your Highness may prevent the danger which I fear will end only by battle, which God withstand! Aughton, 12 Jan. | |
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd. | |
R. O. | 2. Another copy of the same. |
Hol., pp. 2. Mutilated and faded. | |
R. O. | 68. LORD DARCY. |
Proclamation by Lord Darcy to the commons of _ (fn. 2) shire, now rebelliously assembled, ordering all who take themselves to be the King's true subjects to depart home on pain of losing life, land, and goods, "and by the grace of God else we (fn. 3) shall shortly dispatch you." | |
Draft, p. 1. Endd. by Darcy: A proclamation and Robert Aske's letters | |
R. O. | 69. INTERROGATORIES [for the Vicar of Louth]. |
(1.) Where and when had you the first communication of the insurrection in Lincolnshire, and with whom, and how devised you to set the said insurrection forward, and by whose aid, comfort, and counsel? (2.) What was done day by day? (3.) For what cause and to what end made you it? Who were their sugges[ters] and surmisers to stir the people to follow you? (4.) Who conveyed them from place to place so shortly, and by what means? (5.) What fashion used you to cause this? (6.) By whose study and diligence was that done? (7.) Who were the greatest stirrers? (8.) How they met? (9.) How were they harnessed, victualled, and by whose help? (10.) Who were their aiders and counsellors by word or writing? (11.) Whose counsel used you most to keep you together, and "what intend you then to doy?" (12.) "What caused them to goy home after the proclamation," and who opposed this? (13.) How was it so many gentlemen and others were taken, as they pretended, against their will, and no stroke stricken? (14.) Why told you not your parishioners, when they assembled first, that their rumours and tales was untrue, and their pretence and doings contrary to the laws of God and nature, and this realm, and to their fidelity and oath of obedience to their prince? (15.) "What caused you to smite your parishioners of Lowth of the back, bidding them to go forward justly, for they should have goods and riches plenty at London? (16.) What moved you to goy the Chartershows, and for what intent?" | |
Pp. 2. Mutilated. Endd.: Interrogateries upon the insurrection in Lincoln. | |
Jan. 12. R. O. |
70. LINCOLNSHIRE REBELS in the TOWER. |
Additions to the confessions of the prisoners in the Tower, being rebellious of Lincolnshire. "Liber xxus called the Additions." | |
I. "An addition of Kendall's examination, vicar of Lowthe," (fn. 4) taken at the Tower of London, 12 Jan., 28 Hen. VIII. | |
First, Wm. Man, who sings bass in the choir at Lowthe, and one _ (fn. 5) parson Sotbye, going to board with Thomas Manby, told him it was said the inhabitants of Hull had sold their church plate to "prevent" the commissioners. (2.) Knows not their names who grudged at the King's supremacy. (3.) It was said the sacrament was "irreverently taken down" by the King's officers at the suppression of Hawnby. (4.) Knows none but the said Man and the parson of Sotbye who reported that if one would rise all would. (5.) Every one grudged at the new erroneous opinions touching Our Lady and Purgatory. (6.) The insurrection would not have begun at Lowthe had it not been bruited that the church jewels should be taken away. (7.) Never disclosed to the King's Council or justices the report that if one rose all would; and (8.) confesses his negligence in this. (9.) Never encouraged the rebels. (10.) On Monday following the insurrection 60 priests were at Lowth by command of the bishop's officers, and the morrow after their departure their parishioners were up, for they were sworn by Milton, captain of Lowth, to ring their common bells. (10.) Neither the prior nor any of the convent of Coventry knew he was vicar of Lowthe, for he told them he came from Oxford and was beneficed beside Colchester. Thinks if they had known who he was they would not have received him. (11.) He counselled the rebels not to meddle with the King, but only for the repression of heresy and maintenance of the Faith. (12.) Was present when the 60 priests were sworn. They need not have rung their bells, but might have fled. | |
II. Addition of Thos. Retforde, parson of Snellone, Linc. (fn. 6) | |
(1.) Knows nothing touching that article. (2.) The parson of Donyngton reported in the parson of Esterington's house that every three parishes in Lincolnshire should be made one. (3 to 11, inclusive.) Knows nothing. | |
"Item, besides his answer to the articles."_John Holme, of Rand, urged him to go among the rebels, as they rose for the Church. Item, Saunderson, of Resonby, a grange of the abbot of Barlings, made a banner and tied on the top of it a white towel with a picture of the Trinity on parchment pinned on it. This was the first banner in the field, but there were afterwards many. Touching the reading of the letter Moigne spoke of, denies that he ever heard it read. | |
III. Additions to the examination of Robert Sothbye. (fn. 7) | |
Knows nothing of 1, 2, 4–8, and 10. As to 3, heard rumoured a month before the insurrection that three parish churches should be put in one, and that the jewels of the Church should be taken away. As to 9, that George Stanes, of Haltham, Linc., was the first deviser of all the articles, and is an arrant traitor, for he went from one wapentake to another setting forth the articles to the people with all his power. Divers articles were devised by others, but after he had made the commons privy to his they adopted them. He adds:—That Robt. Gibson or Croke, and John Benson, of Horncastle, were sent from Horncastle by Mr. Sheriff to the lord Hussey to know if he sent two of his servants to Horncastle or not, and this deponent, with the others aforenamed, heard the lord Hussey say that he would not be false to his Prince, nor would he be against them, or none of his tenants would take his part. | |
IV. Addition to Longbottom's examination. (fn. 8) | |
To 1, 2, 4–8, and 10 he knows nothing. (3.) Heard at the time of the insurrection that the chalices and crosses of the churches should be taken away, but knows not by whom. (9.) George Stanes was first deviser of the articles, and Mr. Dighton, of Sturton, devised articles after, but those of Stanes were preferred. Adds:—That he thinks Mr. Dymmoke, the sheriff, Mr. Dighton, Mr. Dymmoke of Carlton, Sir Wm. Sandon, and one Sanderson were in great fault, for they might have stayed the rebels with a white rod; and that the parsons of Hatton and Nether Taynton relieved the rebels with money. | |
V. Addition of the abbot of Barlings' examinations. (fn. 9) | |
By command of Mr. Dymmoke, the sheriff, he brought in a cartload of victuals to the rebels, and at his coming amongst them, for fear of his life, he said, "Mr. Sheriff, I beseech you be good master unto me and save my house from spoiling, and I will help you with such victuals, and goods as I have." | |
Examined upon the new articles. (1.) Knew nothing of the insurrection till the Wednesday after it began. (2.) Knows nothing. (3.) The common fame went a month or six weeks before the insurrection that two or three parish churches should be put in one; and, further, that all chalices, crosses, and jewels of the churches should be taken away and tin ones put in place of them; also, (4), that all gold coined and uncoined should be brought to the Tower of London, there to be touched. (5.) He knows nothing. (6.) Thinks these bruits the very cause of the insurrection. (7.) Had no intelligence with any person touching any of the things objected to him in this article. (8.) The sheriff and one Willoughby, with great bragging and menacing words, commanded him to bring the rebels victuals and go forward with them on pain of death. (9 and 10.) He knows nothing. Adds:—That neither privily nor apertly did he ever stir the rebels to go forward; that upon Friday after the insurrection began, when he had sure knowledge the rebels would come to his monastery, and there were in his house 100 of them, he said to his brethren and servants, weeping, "I perceive that these rebels will have both you and me with them, and what shall become of us God knoweth, but this ye shall understand, that their cause is naught, and directly against the law of God and man, and surely God must of justice take vengeance of them." He would have fled at the beginning of the insurrection but that he feared the burning of his house and spoiling of his goods. | |
"Be it remembered that a canon of the abbot's of Byrling, now prisoner in the Tower of London, being examined what words the said abbot had to his canons servants and the 100 rebels at their being in his house as is aforesaid, said that the abbot, being by them required to send his canons to the rest of their company, and he answered it was against the laws of God and man that any religious person should go to any battle, and specially against their prince." He added that the abbot was so sorrowful that he could not for a long time after their departure from his house say any part of his divine service for weeping. | |
VI. Addition of George Huddyswell's examination. (fn. 10) | |
He says that Aske and Moigne rode together talking beside the rebels in front of 300 footmen, but cannot not tell their conversation. | |
Upon the articles. (1.) He knows nothing. (2.) It was bruited a month before the insurrection that no child should be christened, &c. (3.) Also that there should be but one parish church within five miles, and that the jewels of the churches should be taken away and replaced by chalices of tin, but who devised that bruit he knows not. (4.) That he heard it reported, but he knows not by whom, that all the gold coined and uncoined should be brought to the Tower to be touched. (5 and 6.) Knows nothing. (7.) Had no intelligence with any person touching the articles aforesaid, or touching the primacy. (8 and 10.) Has declared his mind in his former examination. (9.) Knows nothing. | |
VII. Addition of Roger New. (fn. 11) | |
(1, 2, 4, 7, 9, and 11.) Knows nothing. (3.) Being in the field among the rebels, heard the report about the chalices. (5.) Heard that all cattle not marked should be seized to the King's use. (6.) Thinks the things above expressed the very causes of the insurrections. (8.) One Wm. Leche was the very beginner of the insurrection at Horncastle, and gave him 4d. George Stanes was very busy devising the articles, wrote them upon his saddle bow, and rode from place to place to set them forward. (10.) Thinks the gentlemen were among the rebels willingly, for Mr. Thomas Lytylbery brought in a wain load of bread and beer, 10 sheep, and two beeves. Mr. Sheriff Dymmoke likewise brought in victuals, and the college of Tetersall sent some. He thinks that on Wednesday after the insurrection, the gentlemen being well harnessed, with their tenants, might have stayed the people, but on Thursday the rebellion was too strong. Never saw any towardness in the gentlemen to repress the rebels. He adds:—That, being bailed at Lincoln by the duke of Suffolk and the Council there, he promised at his return home to search diligently for knowledge of the beginning of this insurrection, which he did, and came a month after of his own free will to the duke of Suffolk at Lincoln, where he was attached and brought to London by Hartwell, the provost marshal. Also, being in prison at Lincoln, he heard one of the provost marshal's servants say to a son of John Thew, of Samerby, "I marvel your father is not here in prison, forasmuch as he fired the beacon at Tetforde the Wednesday after the insurrection, whereby all the commons of the Marshland were up," which the said Thew's son could not well deny. On his coming home after he was bailed this respondent made search whether it was true that the said Thew fired the beacon. The neighbours confirmed it, and he thinks the provost marshal's servant had a gelding of Thew to keep him out of prison, for at this respondent's coming up from Lincoln to London he saw a boy belonging to the same servant of the provost marshal riding an ambling bay gelding that was once old Thew's. | |
VIII. Examination of Barnard Fletcher. | |
(1, 4–7, 9, 11.) Knows nothing. (2.) George Stanes was the first deviser of the articles, saying openly to the people in the field, holding up his hands, "Sirs, how like you these articles? Doth they please you or no? And the people held up their staves, saying Yea, yea, yea." (3.) About eight weeks before the insurrection heard the rumour about the chalices. (8.) When the rebels were within a flight shot of the abbot of Byrling's pastures, the abbot brought them 80 wethers, six oxen, and a wain laden with bread and drink. Tetarsall sent them victuals, and sent their captain, Robt. Allyn, 14l. in ready money. And Mr. Sheriff Dymmoke, being demanded at Horncastle of Mr. Ramesey, one of the mai[ster]s of Tetersall College, what he would have, replied, "Ye have many tall priests within your college; send them all to us, saving one priest to wait upon the lord dean." Moreover, when the abbot of Byrling brought victuals to the rebels he openly said to them, "Masters, I have brought you here certain victuals, and go forward and stick to this matter. I have a lordship at Sweton, and I will prepare for you as much more victual, and bring the same to you at Ankester heath." At which time the people favoured him very much for the same. Moreover, on Tuesday after the insurrection Mr. Sheriff commanded the people to go to Mr. Lytylbery and Sir John Copyldyke and to all the gentlemen in Lindsay and the marsh country towards the seaside and raise them to be at Horncastle next Monday by 8 o'clock. He also saw the priests very toward in setting forth this rebellion. (10.) On Tuesday after the insurrection began he thinks Mr. Dymmoke, the sheriff, Arthur Dymmoke, Sir Wm. Sandon, Nicholas Saunderson, Robert Dighton, and Thomas Dymmoke, his master, might have stayed the people at Horncastle, for they were not more than 100 men that day. And, further, that Nich. Saunderson and Robt. Dighton were the busiest persons among the rebels, and that Thomas Dymmoke, Dighton, and Saunderson, some of them dwelling 16 or 17 miles from the sheriff, came to the said sheriff's house that Tuesday morning by 7 or 8 o'clock that they might have stayed the rebels as aforesaid, and he supposes they rode part of the night. | |
He adds that two letters were sent from the rebels into the North, by which, as the common fame went, the Yorkshiremen were notified of the cause why they rose in Lincolnshire. Knows not to whom they were sent, or by whom, but Guy Kayn, of Louth, and Ant. Curtis, of Grymisburii, know much in that behalf. Moreover, he heard that one John Thew fired a beacon at Tetford, at which the inhabitants of the marshland rose. | |
After the examination of this deponent, Barnard Fletcher, he and the abbot of Barling were brought face to face, when the abbot denied that he had brought any sheep to the rebels, and said there came no sheep in his company. On this deponent said he could not perfectly tell whether the 80 sheep were the abbot's or no. The abbot also denies the words of encouragement to the rebels with which he is charged, but says that, fearing they would have killed him, as many of them were his mortal enemies, he said, "Masters, I have according to your commandment brought you victual, beseeching you to be good unto me and preserve my house from spoil, and if ye will let me have a passport I will go to a lordship of mine called Sweton, where, against your coming to Ankaster heath, I will prepare for you as much more victuall." Being asked why he spoke these words, he said he intended on having his passport to have stolen clean away, for without such policy it was not possible for him to depart. | |
IX. Examination of Bryan Stanes. | |
(1.) About a fortnight before the insurrection heard it reported in Millingesby, where he dwells, that the people would rise because it was said the churches should be pulled down, and the parson of the same town, with whom this respondent did thresh, told him that the King's officers would take away all their corn and cattle. (3.) About a fortnight or three weeks before the insurrection it was bruited that two or three parish churches should be put in one. (4.) Heard the parson of Millingesby and other priests say that the chalices and jewels of the churches should be taken away. (6.) It was bruited a fortnight before the insurrection that all cattle not marked should be seized to the King's use, and the inhabitants of Millingsby marked their cattle. (7.) He thinks these were the causes of the insurrection. (9.) Mr. Dymmoke, the sheriff, gave divers of the rebels, being poor men, money for their costs when they were in the fields together. (11.) As far as he could see, the gentlemen came to the field among the rebels willingly, and at the beginning they might have stayed the people at Horncastle if they would, for the poor men were content to be ordered by the gentlemen. | |
He says, further, that the bishop of Lincoln's chancellor, being very sick, was brought from Bullingbroke among the rebels in a field beside Horncastle by one Gibson, dwelling in Kele, Linc., and John Lincoln, of Hawmby, a very rich man. And at his coming into the field the rebels, many of whom were parsons and vicars, cried out, "Kill him! Kill him!" On which Wm. Hutchinson and Wm. Balderstene of Horncastle pulled him violently off his horse, kneeling upon his knees and slew him with their staves, and, being dead, the priests crying continually "Kill him!" this respondent also struck the said chancellor upon the arm with a staff. The sheriff and Mr. Copuldike were present on the occasion. The chancellor's apparel was divided among them, and his purse brought to the sheriff, who distributed the contents to the poor men among the rebels. After the chancellor was slain every parson and vicar in the field counselled their parishioners to proceed in their journey, saying they should lack neither gold nor silver. Of these priests the parson of Stykford was one. | |
X. The addition of Philip Trotter's examination. (fn. 12) | |
(1, 2, 3.) A month before the insurrection it was commonly bruited that all the abbeys in England should be suppressed except Westminster; that the jewels of the churches should be taken away, and chalices, crosses, and censers of tin put in their places, and that two or three parish churches should be put in one. (5.) He heard it reported that for every score of sheep the owner should pay 8d, to the King, and rateably for all their other cattle. (6.) That these were the causes of the insurrection. (7.) That one Robt. Forman of Horncastle gave five marks to the rebels, and the vicar of Thornton 40s., telling them he had money sufficient, and they should not lack. Barons and one Wm. Bywater took the church stock and gave it to the rebels. (9.) The gentlemen were the chief setters forward of them, and they were obedient to them in all their proceedings. | |
He says further that Mr. Dighton of Storton, George Stanes, and Mr. Dymmoke of Carlton, asked the commons whether they thought it not good to make one article that men should be at liberty to make their wills, saying, "Masters, men cannot now make their wills, (fn. 13) for if they make a will now and happen to die 20 or 30 years after the making thereof the same will shall stand, and the testator shall not at any time after the making of the same will change anything contained therein." And also they said that the eldest son should have all the lands, and the father should not be at liberty to give any to his youngest, although they were purchased. He thinks that all the gentlemen were among the commons willingly, for he saw them always busy to set forward their purposes with no less diligence than the commons themselves. He was present when Wm. Leche and 100 others came to sheriff Dymmoke, with whom at the time were Thos. Dymmoke of Carlton, Mr. Dighton of Storton, Mr. Saunderson, Arthur Dymmoke, and Sir Wm. Sandon. They met the sheriff and the said gentlemen a quarter of a mile from his house, and the said Mr. Dymmoke and the others said to Leche and his company, "Masters, ye be welcome." Wm. Leche then said to the gentlemen, "Ye must be sworn," and they answered forthwith, "With a good will," and were sworn accordingly. Immediately afterwards the gentlemen commanded Sir John Copuldike and Mr. Lytylbury to be in readiness at Horncastle next day by 8 o'clock. The commons then asked the sheriff whether they should ring the bells, and he said, "Yea, and ye will, for it is necessary that the people have knowledge." From the beginning to the end of the insurrection the gentlemen might have stayed it if they would, for the commons did nothing but by the gentlemen's commandment, and they never durst stir in the field from the place they were appointed to till the gentlemen directed them what to do; and were cautioned not to stir from their appointed places upon pain of death. They intended, if they had prospered in their journey, to have slain the lord Cromwell, four or five bishops, the Master of the Rolls, and the Chancellor of the Augmentations. For the gentlemen, 'viz., Mr. Sheriff, Messrs. Edward, Arthur, and Thomas Dymmoke, Mr. Dighton, Mr. Saunderson, George Stanes and Wm. Leche demanded of the commons whether they would have the lord Cromwell and others before named, saying to them the lord Cromwell was a false traitor, and that he and the same bishops, the Master of the Rolls, and the Chancellor of the Augmentations, whom they called two false pen clerks, were the devisers of all the false laws. And the commons asked the gentlemen, "Masters, if ye had them, would that mend the matter? And the gentlemen said, Yea, for these be the doers of all mischief." Moreover it was bruited a month before the insurrection that there was no remedy for these things, i.e., for taking away the church goods, &c., but only by insurrection and to beat them down to the ground that would attempt any such things. Being asked where he heard this, he says in travelling from market to market, he being a mercer. Also he heard it reported that one Thew brought a pitch barrel to Tetford and fired the beacon there. | |
XI. The examination of Sir Nich. Leche, parson of Byrchforde. | |
(1, 2, 4.) A month before the insurrection it was reported that all chalices, &c. should be taken away and replaced by tin ones; that all gold, coined and uncoined, should be touched, and men should pay a certain sum for it, and that two or three parishes should be put in one. (6.) He thinks these were the causes of the insurrection. He never conferred with any person before or after the insurrection touching the authority of the bishop of Rome, but preached against it and persuaded the people that they might work upon the days abrogated by the King; for which cause he feared he should have been slain by the commons. He had no intelligence with any parson touching any of the above causes, and neither gave nor received money of any one during the insurrection or before. The gentlemen were always together, commonly a mile from the commons. What they did he knows not, but at length they brought forth certain articles of their griefs, of which one was that the King should remit the Subsidy, and another that he should let the abbeys stand, which articles George Stanes openly proclaimed in the field, and the sheriff and he, about Langwith field, said to the commons, "Masters, ye see that in all the time we have been absent from you we have not been idle. How like you these articles? If they please you, say Yea. If not, ye shall have them amended." The commons then held up their hands and said with a loud voice, "We like them very well." | |
Amongst other articles there declared, Mr. Sheriff and other gentlemen said, "Masters, there is a statute made whereby all persons be restrained to make their wills upon their lands, for now the eldest son must have all his father's lands, and no person to the payment of his debt, neither to the advancement of his daughters' marriages, can do nothing with their lands, nor cannot give his youngest son any lands." Before this he thinks that the commons knew not what that Act of Uses meant. Nevertheless, when that article was read to them, they agreed to it as to all other articles devised by the gentlemen. He thinks all the exterior acts of the gentlemen amongst the commons were done willingly, for he saw them as diligent to set forward every matter as the commons were. And further, during the whole time of the insurrection, not one of them persuaded the people to desist or showed them it was high treason. Otherwise he believes in his conscience they would not have gone forward, for all the people with whom he had intelligence thought they had not offended the King, as the gentlemen caused proclamations to be made in his name. He thinks the gentlemen might have stayed the people of Horncastle, for at the beginning his parishioners went forward among the rebels only by command of the gentlemen. The gentlemen were first harnessed of all others, and commanded the commons to prepare themselves harness, and he believes the commons expected to have redress of grievances by way of supplication to the King. | |
XII. Examination of Robt. Ledes. | |
It was a common report that many abbeys were put down, and more should be; also that church jewels should be taken away and parish churches "minished." | |
In the field beside Horncastle, on the Wednesday, Mr. Dighton, Thos. Dymock, and the sheriff rehearsed certain articles which Mr. Dighton declared to the people they three had devised the night before in their chamber going to their bed. These articles concerned my lord Cromwell, the Chancellor of the Augmentations, the bishops of Rochester, Dewlyn, Canterbury, and Lincoln and others who were the devisers of taking church goods and pulling down churches. It was bruited by occasion of a bill which George Stanes brought the sheriff that no man should make any will of his land. Thinks these the causes of the insurrection. | |
George Stanes went about the field with the sheriff declaring these and other articles. The gentlemen sent the articles into Yorkshire, where it was said they were strewed about the market towns. He received 20d. toward his costs from his township. The sheriff, Arthur Dymmock, Thos. Dymmock, of Carlaton, Mr. Sanderson, Mr. Dightton, and Mr. Sandon were at Skerlehee the Tuesday after the insurrection, and there the sheriff, when asked by the rebels of Horncastle for advice, commanded them to warn all the country to be at Horncastle by 8 o'clock next morning. The gentlemen might easily have pacified the people. The rebels at Horncastle, on the Tuesday, were half inclined to return home, but Ralph Grene, of Pertney, encouraged them to go forward, saying, "God's blood, sirs, what will ye now do? Shall we go home and keep sheep? Nay, by God's body, yet had I rather be hanged." Thomas Dymmock and Robt. Dighton were the busiest stirrers of the commons. | |
XIII. Examination of Trotter and others. | |
A. The said _ (fn. 14) Trottar says the meaning of the plough borne in the banner was the encouraging of the husbandmen; the chalice and the host were in remembrance that chalices, crosses, and jewels of churches should be taken away; the five wounds were to encourage people to fight in Christ's cause; the horn was in token of Horncastle, but who was the deviser of this banner he knoweth not; it was brought among the rebels by the commons of Horncastle. "Item for the bearing of Dymmoke's banner, he saith he bare it, but what the meaning of the laying down of it he knoweth not." | |
B. Trotter says that being frequently in company with John Benson, of Horncastle, he heard him say, "Surely these abbeys shall be put down and the jewels of the church shall be taken away; rather than it so should be, I will spend 20 nobles ere it be Christmas day." | |
C. Both Leches say that Wm. Leche was no servant, but resorted frequently to Dymmoke's house, passing the time with him in shooting, &c. | |
Below on the same page is a letter from Thomas Pope to Bedyll stating that he had declared their proceedings to my lord Privy Seal, who approved them, and desired Bedyll's presence at Court on Saturday next. for on Sunday the King would have no leisure. | |
Pp. 35, with marginal notes in another hand, apparently Pope's. Endd. The numbers in parentheses are in the margin of the original, except in § I, where they represent merely unnumbered paragraphs. | |
12 Jan. R. O. |
71. HENRY EARL OF CUMBERLAND to HENRY VIII. |
Since the proclamation of your pardon by the herald there have been musters in Cumberland about Cockermouth, and some attempted in Westmoreland "for the punishment of such as were there captains for such money as they had gathered among them." Also bills are set upon church doors about Harwod and other places in Yorkshire. Sends copy. The people are so wild that there is danger of further rebellion. As to the officers of the West Marches, there is good quiet with Scotland; but if the commons break again, Carlisle will be in great jeopardy both from them and the Scots. The walls of the town and castle are much decayed, as he has declared by sundry bills of petition, and could not stand a siege without aid. Desires credence for his son the bearer, and also for Sir Thomas Wharton and Sir William Musgrave, who, with Sir Thomas Curwen, have been in jeopardy sundry times, and whom he thinks it right to send up. Skipton Castle, 12 Jan. Signed. | |
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. | |
12 Jan. R. O. |
72. HENRY EARL OF CUMBERLAND to CROMWELL. |
Heretofore during this troublous time I durst not write to you because the commons were so minded against you that if any man had been taken therewith he should have died without help. The country are not minded to continue quiet, as you shall see by the copy of the King's letter and of a schedule enclosed, which was set on church doors in Yorkshire. If Cumberland, Westmoreland, and Cockermouth break again, they intend to have Carlill sworn to them, and, in that case, I fear the Scots would be doing. As the walls and castle are weak, a garrison of 300 men should be appointed there. When the country is grown to any stay I intend to come see the King. Give credence to my son this bearer. Skipton Castle, 12 Jan. Signed. | |
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd. | |
R. O. | 2. Copy of his letter to the King. |
Pp. 2. | |
12 Jan. Ashmole MS. 840, f. 571. |
73. CLARENCIEUX KING OF ARMS. |
Bill presented by Clarencieux King of Arms for allowance of his costs when upon the King's business in the North. | |
First, being forth from 12 Nov. to 14 Jan., 62 days at 6s. 8d., 20l. 13s. 4d. Hire of a horse from London to Nottingham and so to Doncaster to my lord of Norfolk for the sure conveyance of certain stuff of the King's, with serecloth and cord, 40s. | |
Total, 22l. 13s. 4d.: Whereof received from Mr. Tuke, 8l., and, at Doncaster, from John Freeman, 9l. 6s. 8d.: and so remains due, 5l. 6s. 4d. (sic.) | |
ii. Order to Mr. Tuke to pay the balance (as it is the King's pleasure), dated Greenwich, 12 Jan. 28 Henry VIII. | |
In a contemporary hand, not Clarencieux's, p. 1. | |
12 Jan. R. O. |
74. NICHOLZ DE LONGMED to [CROMWELL]. |
Your Lordship knows that the James, of London, Thos. Hert, master, sank, with a leak, in the Downs; 40 sows of lead were lost, and the rest, both men and goods, saved by three ships, one of Fawey and two of Dartmouth. These two came to Dartmouth on the 2 Jan., and George Thomson, servant of my lord Admiral, came the Wednesday following and made seizure of the goods in them. On this I sent the searcher aboard to take surety for the King's moiety, and he reported that the seizure was of some 20 dozen calfskins, goods of Mr. Gressam, with which he was loth to meddle. I thus perceived he was confederate with Thomson. I heard that Thomson, and the masters of the two ships, had landed at Kynggswere, a village over against Dartmouth, two days before, 200 dozen calveskins. On the Thursday I met Thomson, who told me the seizure did not concern my office, but the searcher's, and he would show me neither commission, cocket, power, or licence. All that came by the bearing of one Wm. Hollond (or Honylond) who has caused much trouble in our town, as Mr. Dennys and Hulle, the customer, can shew your Lordship. On the Thursday and Friday, Thomson got Hollond's boat, John Cutte master, and landed worsetts, whyttes, and fine Kentish cloths, contrary to statute, above the price of 3l. and 4l., which, with what they conveyed out by night, is about 360 cloths, part, contrary to statute, unbarbed, "unrowed," and "unshorryn," which the customer and I had no account of. On Friday Thomson and Cut proposed to put the calfskins in a crayer of Ric. Hokes, of Dartmouth, to go to Hampton, as they said. The customer and I went aboard the ship where the skins were at "Candyll tendynge," and found Thomson, the purser of the ship that was lost, and another man, making ready to lade the skins in the crayer; Hollond's boat was at Kinggswere ready to bring off the rest of the skins at night. Thomson at first threatened me with my lord his master's displeasure, but afterwards agreed to find surety, for the customer and me, in the morning. Next day, Saturday, he said we must take himself as surety, and when we would not, he and Cut began to unload the skins and land them at Dartmouth, and would not suffer us to take an account of them, although the mayor commanded them in the King's name. Details further proceedings at great length. By your lordship's letters to my lord Admiral and the mayor, Thomson and Kut might be reprehended. Thomson bragged I should come to London to make answer and "kiss the Fleet"; if so, I trust it will be at his cost. I would fain come, it is so long since I saw your lordship. Dated at the head, "Dartmothe, le 12 jour de Januare." | |
Hol., pp. 4. | |
12 Jan. R. O. |
75. GUILD OF ST. CHRISTOPHER, THAME. |
Pleadings before Chr. Westcote, Ric. Crispe, and Robt. Belson, between Symon Senkelere and Margaret his wife, complainants, and Jas. Watson, defendant, at Thame, 12 Jan. 28 Hen. VIII. | |
The dispute relates to the rights of the complainants under a lease made by Robt. Mercer, chaplain of the chantry, and of the Fraternity and Guild of St. Christopher in Thame, and Robt. Mortemer and Wm. Yong, wardens, dated 30 Dec. 26 Hen. VIII. In opposition to which the defendant shows a former lease by Sir Ric. Fowler, patron of the chantry, Ric. Elys, and John Goodwyn, wardens, to Will. Harres, dated 4 March 7 Hen. VIII. | |
Part of the original foundation of the chantry, by Sir Ralph lord Sudeley, &c. is cited. | |
Being unable to set any order between the parties by their assents, have enjoined them to appear before you [Cromwell], at the quinzaine of St. Hilary. Signed and sealed. | |
Pp. 3. | |
12 Jan. R. O. |
76. ANTHOINETTE DE SAVEUSES to LADY LISLE. |
I have received your letter and an ell of violet satin, for which I thank you. Excuse my giving you this trouble. I wish you to see that the greater part of what I have received from you and my good friends for the last three years is applied in honour of the holy sacrament, and I pray that Our Saviour, for whose honour I propose to leave this memorial after my death, will reward you, for without your aid I could not have finished what I had begun, having no kinswoman near me. I beg your acceptance of a pair of coiffes de nuit for my lord Deputy. I am sorry to understand by your letter that you have only received two pairs, for there were more. When they are dirty they should be washed with white soap like other linen. Dunkirk, 12 Jan. | |
If I thought it would please you, I would send you a pair of coiffes de nuit of another fashion for your own use. | |
Hol. Fr., p. 1. Add.: A Calais. | |
12 Jan. R.O. |
77. ADOLF DE BOURGOGNE [Lord of Beures] to LORD LISLE. |
I have received your letters by Calais complaining of depredations made by Graeuwe, Dierick, and other men of war here, and have given charge to the council of the Admiralty to hear the parties and administer justice. La Vere, 12 Jan. 1536. Signed. | |
Fr., p. 1. Add. | |
13 Jan. R. O. |
78. SIR AMBROSE CAVE to CROMWELL. |
Doubts not he will be his good lord in the controversy between him and Mr. Dyngley for the commandry of Shingay in Cambridgeshire. As it will appear by a writing which my brother the bearer will show you the Religion has given it me for my "melliorment," and has collated the commandry that I have possession of to another young gentleman. If Dingley has it, no man will be preferred but himself, for he would then keep two commandries, besides a member that he has out of the prioralty worth 40l. a year, and a pension out of another commandry of 100 cr. of the sun. No man for so little time serving the Religion is so rewarded. He should be content and not seek means to break the ancient style and custom of the Religion. | |
My lord of St. John's lately received a letter from Malta, which he should deliver to the King with credence for certain news from those parts. The gentleman who should bring the news is fallen sick in France, and till he come my lord can know nothing. Being troubled with gout he gave the letter to Cave to deliver, and if Cave were in health he would have come himself. Sends two carpets as a gift. London, 13 Jan. 1536. | |
Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd. | |
Cleop. E. IV. 141. B. M. |
2. "The personal answers of Sir Thomas Dyngley to the positions (sic) of Sir Ambrose Cave." |
1, 2, and 3 he believes to be true. 4 and 5, Gives his opinion upon the right of the Great Master of St. John's to give away commandries without the advice of his convent. 6 and 7 are true; 8, 9, and 10 utterly untrue, 11. Is in peaceful possession of the commandry of Shingay; otherwise the article is untrue. 12, 13, and 14 he refers to the King's commission, and the acts of the Court. 15 and 16. Is a native of Southamptonshire. | |
Pp. 3. Endd. | |
13 Jan. R. O. |
79. JOHN (fn. 15) ABBOT OF OSENEY to CROMWELL. |
Thanks for his kindness. Has lately received letters containing great and fearful threats, written by a neighbour of his, who would not dare perform them unless he expects some great authority by the King's power. If he has any matter against him let him disclose it to the King's Council, and the abbot will be ready to answer it. Sends the letters by his chaplain. Osney, 13 Jan. Signed. | |
P. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd. | |
R. O. | 2. An information against Serls, vicar of St. Peter's in the East, Oxford [by John Parkyns]. (fn. 16) |
On Saturday last the writer sent for Carter and spoke with him in New Park to cause the mayor to carry up a letter concerning the vicar for the King's safeguard. Made his servant go to the mayor in Cartar's name; but the mayor said he could not ride that night, nor would not. Cartar told the writer that Plomar's daughter was to be married next day, but on Monday he would undertake that the mayor should go. On my telling Cartar the contents he said it would not hurt to tarry so long; on which I left the letters with him. Came to my host's the same day and found the vicar waiting to speak with me. He said I had written treason against him and the abbot of Osseny. I replied I had written nothing but truth and would abide by it. "Then the vyccor told me how he had ben with the abbot of Evynsam of hys owen fre wyll and lay with hem the Fryday ther all nyght, bozthe the vyccar and Packyngton his servant; and the Sottorday at nyght thay sayd to me thay wold abyd by all that I have wret to the Kynges gras most onneraboll counsell consernyng the ij vayn gloryus abbottes of Osseny and Evynsam. Then I proferd Serls redy golde to ryde by and by to sertyfy the Kynges grase most onneraboll counsell, and he wold not ryde byt ottorly refused." I then sent Serls' servant to Carter for my letters, and Cartar sent word I could not have them till 7 to-morrow morning. Serls and his servant departed, and I wrote down all that they had certified me of. Early next morning, being sore diseased with a tertian fever, "and that Sonday being my ell day," I went, as in duty bound, to Serls' vicarage, called him up, and bade him come away for the King's safeguard. He made me wait "a large half hour" till my teeth chattered, and I am the worse for it yet, and shall be while I live. When he came I delivered to him his sayings and his servants' in writing, saying, "Look on these writings; and all this is but part of your sayings and your servants'. Go, bear these to the mayor of Oxford and tell the rest of your mouth to the same mayor, as you will answer to the King's Grace's most honorable Council. I returned to my host's sore sick; and the vicar "continuing" (i.e., delaying) to do anything for the King's safeguard, sent the letters back to me in my chamber, denying his words, and saying that all was false. Sent a servant with the writings to the mayor about 7 a.m., urging him to forward it to the Council. The mayor sent word by a servant that he could not ride till he had heard mass and dined at the Plomar's, but would go in the afternoon. Was astonished he showed so little regard to the King's safety. Sent his servant William Rennolds that Sunday about 1 o'clock to the mayor with a letter which he must have certified if he be the King's true subject. | |
Pp. 2. Endd.: A fole of Oxford or thereaboutes. | |
13 Jan. R. O. |
80. W. BISHOP OF NORWICH to CROMWELL. |
Thanks Cromwell for granting him at Mr. Hare's request a relaxation of the jurisdiction within his diocese, notwithstanding the visitors' inhibition. Asks for the relaxation under seal. Cannot receive a penny of the pensions belonging to the bishopric, which are the most part of the revenues. Wishes to have a general commandment under the privy seal with a schedule of the names of those who refuse to pay, commanding them to appear before the Council if they do not pay by a certain day. St. Benett's, 13 Jan. Signed. | |
P. 1. Add.: Lord Crumwell. Endd. | |
13 Jan. Vesp. F. XIII., 127 b. B. M. |
81. D. DARCY (fn. 17) to [SIR GEORGE DARCY]. |
She, her children, and goods are in great danger, the whole country is "so fervently set of wilfulness." Is informed by his friends that they say that if they rise again he shall take their part or do worse. Entreats him to make haste home, which may help to stay the country, and put her and his children in safety. The country has him in so much jealousy that she knows not what she should think or say. Certain ships came to Hull with wine, Lenten store, and corn, and it was reported in the country that they were laden with guns and ordnance. To rescue Hull all Howlderness and Hayllom of the Wold were up and went to Beverley, intending to go on, but when they knew the truth they were stayed. These countries, too, would have risen, but were stayed by the vicar of Braton and others of your friends and servants. At Leeds and in many other places they have set up letters upon the church doors, for bidding all men to depart, with horse or harness, or to be at any lord's commandment, and commanding them to be ready at an hour's warning. In Chyrkeby (Kirkby) shire they have made a captain in every town, to be ready when called upon. She and the children are in good health. Gayforthe, 13 Jan. Signed "by your humble toure (?) wife, D. Darcy." | |
P. 1. | |
13 Jan. Poli Epp. II., 232. |
82. CARD. POLE to BENEDICT RAMBERTO. |
Reply to his letters of congratulation. Rome, id. Jan. | |
Latin. | |
14 Jan. R. O. |
83. RICHARD WHARTON to CROMWELL. |
Sends by the bringer, his servant, a fat "havor (heifer)," 6 pheasants, and 12 partridges. Thanks for favour in his last suit to Cromwell at Grafton. From my poor house, 14 Jan. | |
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Lord Privy Seal. Endd. | |
14 Jan. R. O. St. P. I., 524. |
84. LORD DARCY to HENRY VIII. |
On 10 Jan. at 11 a.m., received by his fellow, John Appilbe, the King's messenger, his letters, dated Greenwich, 6 Jan, ordering Darcy to repair to his presence with all diligence. Never fainted nor feigned in service to the King his father nor him above 50 years, in war nor in peace; but since coming from the lords of the Council last at Doncaster, has not thrice come down from his chamber. Has been so vehemently handled with his two diseases of rupture and flux, as the Lord Admiral, Mr. Browen, and Mr. Russell saw at Doncaster, and as all the King's physicians know, that he feels more like to die than to live. Would rather die than have the King believe that he should of his own free will, not compelled by lack of all furniture of war, and by extreme fury of the commons, enter into their follies, as, he hears, has been reported. Begs out of pity and as a reward for his old services, for the declaration of his affairs since these businesses began in Lincolnshire, that the King will appoint some of his Council and Privy Chamber to examine and report upon a book he sends herewith. Desires instructions, as he once showed the King at Greenwich, how to use himself in service to Norfolk or any others the King sends down. Finally, if he have any recovery of health, and have licence to come by sea, which he may do from his house, he will, on the King's command, come up by sea or in a litter, or die by the way. Credence to bearer for the state of these North parts. Tempilhurst, 14 Jan. Signed. | |
Add. Endd. | |
R. O. | 2. Copy of the preceding. |
Pp. 2. Subscribed and endd. by Darcy: "A true copy to the King." | |
R. O. | 3. Draft of the preceding, with corrections in Darcy's hand. |
Mutilated, pp. 2. Endd.: In J ... 1537 ... is le[tter and] my answer, the copy and the double to the book, &c. sent with Medilton. S ... | |
14 Jan. R. O. |
85. SIR THOS. CLYFFORD to CROMWELL. |
Sends the gelding which he promised when last with him. Has been prevented sending it before by the "business of the commons." | |
Encloses a copy of a letter he has written to the King for the repairs of Berwick. Desires Cromwell to move the King in the matter. Immediate repair will save money, as the decays increase. The bearer, his servant, can give Cromwell the news. Berwick Castle, 14 Jan. Signed. | |
P. 1. Add.: Lord Crumewell. Endd. | |
R. O. | 2. [Sir T. CLIFFORD to HENRY VIII.] |
Has often informed the King of the dangerous ruin and decay of Berwick, by reason of which his Highness sent down Sir Chr. Morese and Mr. Candyshe. Since the writer was last with the King, matters are worse, and the walls of the town and castle are partly falling. Reminds the King of this, as the time of year is suitable for work. Is bound to do it, as the King has limited the charge and custody of the town to him. The town would be in danger if attacked, for defence can only be made upon the height of the wall; the bulwarks are clear decayed, and the towers and "murderers" unsafe for ordnance. | |
Copy, p. 1. | |
14 Jan. R. O. |
86. JOHN HUSEE to LORD LISLE. |
Has received his three sundry letters of the 1st and 4th inst. Has consulted with Mr. Popley and other friends about the Lord Chamberlain, but there is no such likelihood as Lisle writes; for he is in as good favour as ever he was, and no cause against him but that which Palmer, the spear, is in hand with him for. But Mr. Popley has promised that if he sees any likelihood hereafter he will inform Lisle. As for the benefice of Hartyng, showed Popley Lisle's letter, and he desired that I would not deliver Mr. Sadler's letter. He said Mr. Polle was like to do well, and that the matter is not so heinously taken as is said; also that Throgmorton should be despatched with the King's answer shortly. Hopes my Lord Privy Seal will not need Lisle's three great horses, as it is hoped that all is well Northward, "and it were but an easy change to deliver three such horse for three geldings." My lord Privy Seal thanks you for his capons, and says he is your assured friend. Has made three books touching Lisle's patent, and will not fail to call upon my lord Privy Seal till he knows the King's full pleasure. Hopes to have it at a point by Candlemas. Thanks Lisle for the pains he has taken with the Frenchman. If he will take 10l. Husee's father will bear part in it. If he wants a horse he shall pay for him when he seeth him. Mr. Sadler goes to Scotland on the King's business. He is very courteous, but Husee finds little fruit at his hands. Sends by Candelar half a haunch of venison, half baken in rough paste: Handcock, of the Goat, sendeth the same. As to Lisle's matter with Lord Beauchamp, would hope, if the money were ready, that my lord Privy Seal would cause the King to move him in it. This day the earl of Sussex is married to Mrs. Arundell, my lady's niece. Some are glad of it and some sorry for the gentlewoman's sake. Here shall be a general council shortly, at which all the estates spiritual and temporal will be present; but the day is not yet fixed. My lord of Norfolk goes Northwards, and divers learned men and others with him. Sussex goes into the borders of Wales, and will remain to see order in the country. Aske is in the North, and this day the earl of Westmoreland and Bowes were sworn of the King's Council in the North. The bishop of York is in high displeasure. My lord Privy Seal will now keep the Court ordinarily, and some think the King's household will be brought to the same order as the French king's Court. Mr. Frogmerton and Mr. Essex are in the Tower. Their lives are in danger. Some say there is much to be laid to their charge. Wm. Polle has a hobby and a boy, which he will send you in three days. Has seen passports signed by Lisle with the words, "as you tender our pleasure" two or three times. Thinks this might be ill interpreted if they came to some men's hands. Hastings [has] one of the passports. Thinks Lisle should send him another, and Husee would get this from him. Wishes Lisle a goodly young son. London, 14 Jan. | |
Hol., pp. 3. Add. | |
14 Jan. R. O. |
87. THOMAS UVEDALE to LORD LISLE. |
I have received your letters, dated Calais, 30 Nov., complaining of unkindness. I never showed the King that your keeper of the forest felled woods, for lack of wages or otherwise, although in fact your keeper, Raphe Ryggesby, has felled divers trees and killed many deer since I was discharged by your letters, as well as some before. The last time the King was at Soneburne Park he showed me that your Lordship had made me your deputy of the said forest, and commanded me to look well to the deer and woods, else if any were wasted he would lay it to my charge; so if you please to appoint another deputy I must sue to his Grace for my discharge. Bishops Waltham, 14 Jan. 1536. | |
Hol., pp. 2. Add. | |
14 Jan. Add. MS. 8,715, f. 324. B. M. |
88. BISHOP of FAENZA to MONS. AMBROGIO. |
Hears that a personage has come from the Emperor to the king of England to make him great offers. Does not know what has occurred, as there are no letters. Pole's man (l'huomo del Rmo Inglese) has not written, at which he is surprised, as he promised to do so in any event, even if he was detained by the King. He said that when he left Rome, he told his master, if the Pope intended to create him cardinal at Christmas, that he should not publish it until his return, as it might imperil his life. A Frenchman writes from England that the King has in prison some of the chiefs of the insurrection, but that he was obliged to be lenient (trovar miglior forma alli casi suoi), because even if the people are quiet now, they can easily rise again if the King will not grant what they consider honest and Christian. They are quite opposed to the obstinate will of the King, and much more of his Council. The French king said that it was incredible the great sums spent by the King in these tumults, "e che pare proprio miracolo, come gl'escono di mano a migliara senza sapere quasi come essendo fatto l'avarita stessa del mondo." | |
I have again done with the king of Scotland what you wrote about. He is a prince of the best intentions, and as obedient to the Pope as can be desired. The Pope can depend on him, as far as he is able, as Du Bellay assures me, beside the continual caresses and sure words which the King and "Mons. d'Allbrott," his chancellor, use to me and the Nuncio. The Nuncio has gained much favour, not only with him (James) but with the French king, the Grand Master, and the queen of Navarre, who likes talking to him. They all hold him (the Nuncio) in great reputation for a man of learning and apt at business, and perhaps by these means and favours a good end may be made to the affairs of his religion here. I am waiting to know what he will do about his return or progress, which will be decided by what he hears from England. | |
Ital., modern copy, pp. 7. Headed: A M. Ambrogio. Da Parigi, li 14 Gennaro 1536. | |
14 (?) Jan Chigi MS. |
89. THE NEW CARDINALS. |
Extract from the "Diaria Martinellis" describing the giving of the titles to the new cardinals by the Pope, Monday, 14 (qu. 15th ?) Jan. 1537, namely, to Cards. Jo. Maria de Monte, Theatinus, De Bauro bishop of Verulan, and Castellan of St. Angelo, Carpentras, Jacobitius, Mascon, ambassador of France, "Rmus. Dnus. Reginaldus Anglicus ex stirpe Regia, cui dedit titulum sanctorum Nerei et Achillei," and the Card. of Borgia, who was absent. | |
Latin, p. 1. From a modern copy in R. O. | |
15 Jan. Tickell's Hist. of Hull, 166. |
90. HENRY VIII. to the CORPORATION OF HULL. |
We have not only put the duke of Norfolk in readiness to address himself to those parts for due administration of justice, but have despatched Sir Ralph Ellerker, jun., to prepare for his coming, with instructions to declare our mind to you in certain matters. Greenwich, 15 Jan. 28 Hen. VIII. | |
15 Jan. R. O. C.'s Works, 332. |
91. CRANMER to CROMWELL. |
Sends by Ric. Nevell, the bearer, 20l. for Cromwell's fee for this year. Asks credence for him concerning Mortlake and other things. Forde, 15 Jan. Signed. | |
P. 1. Add: Privy Seal. Endd. | |
15 Jan. R. O. |
92. DOVER. |
"The surveyor's book of the King's works at Dovor, of the 22nd. payment" beginning 15 Jan. 28 Hen. VIII. | |
The men employed are 5 carpenters, 2 sawyers, 3 hoymen, 9 "pyremen," 10 "tounemen," 2 coopers, 47 labourers, 4 mariners, 4 barrowmen. The "Courts" of Mr. Surveyor, Mr. Comptroller, Thos. Foxley, Wm. Foster, and Robt. Stelman. Seven drags with horses. Thos. Foxley, clerk of the check, the clerk of the call, the clerk of the ledger; Edw. Dawys, clerk of the storehouses. Robt. Thompson and John Barly, overseers. Wm. Worme and Edw. Rutter, purveyors. The boats of Reynold a Lee, with 7 men; of Peter Darell, 5; of John Mason, 5; of Thos. Petir, 5; of John Gallant, 4; of John Steward, 6; John Strynger, 4. | |
No amounts are given, but after each name are marks which apparently represent four weeks' work. | |
Pp. 7. | |
R. O. | 2. [The King's works at Dover.] |
i. Account of nine monthly (?) payments to workmen and for material, &c. The top of each page, containing the headings of the several payments, being mutilated, the only dates indicated are Decem[ber] and [Fe]bruary. Most of the items can be read. The names _ Ambrose and John Owyen occur. The largest payment is 397l. 14s. 7d. Pp. 8. | |
ii. Criticisms, apparently on the preceding account, addressed to [lord] Cromwell, lord [of] the Privy Seal. | |
"... [y]ere" of King [Henry VIII.] and in the months of July, August, September, October, November, and December as the works began at Dover, perceiving the pains taken by the master of the Massindwe, who aided by four mariners of the town, began this labour without any experience, "but even as the blindman casts his staff; and so hath builded unto this day, thinking that he hath done well, and is clean deceived." | |
Gives reasons to show most of this work to be "in small effect or purpose," viz., of the two jetties and the harbour. | |
The "coufytesnes" (covetousness) of the master and controller "hath not furthered the works." The four mariners are honest men, and know how to lead a ship in the seas, but "what building meaneth they know not but as ignorant men doth." Never knew any man thus to cast away the King's money, for whatever was said he would do as he listed. I beg that I may not lose my wages, as I am a very poor man and have served the King these 16 years. The master has ignorant officers under him, and "the variance of the officers hath d[one] much harm." Pp. 6. | |
iii. Account of 10 monthly (?) payments with headings mutilated. The largest amount seems to be 360l 14s. 11d. Pp. 10. | |
iv. "Abstract and proportion for the haven at Dover." | |
[For the m]oneth of Feb[ruary]. Provisions:—3 hoys, 200l.; 12 great lighters, 300l.; oak timber, 1,000 tons, at 6s. 8d. a ton; sea coal, 100 chaldrons for burning of lime, at 3s. 4d. a chaldron; 3 cock-boats, 10l.; iron (mutilated); steel for sharpening tools (?) 40 "wyspes," 40s.; 1,000 clapboards to make "tonnes" to weigh rocks, at 13s. 4d. the 100; rope, 2 thousand weight, at 14s. the hundred weight; 12 "shyvers" of brass, "which was for pulleys," 5s. each; oars, at 18s. a doz.; shovels, spades, and skowpetts, 50 doz., at 4s. a doz.; wheelbarrows and handbarrows, 12 doz., at 16s. and at 6s. the doz. Total, 1,133l. 13s. 4d. | |
[Wages, &c.]:—[Shipwrights] (mutilated); victuals for the said 41 shipwrights, 2s. a week each; total in six months. 98l. 8s.; 10 carpenters, the master at 9d., two at 8d, and the rest 7d. a day; 10 sawyers, at 6d., 8 masons the warden at 12d. and rest at 8d.; [ston]ehew[ers ?] (mutilated); 40 mariners at 8d.; 10 lime burners 1 at 8d., the rest at 6d.; coopers 2 at 7d.; (item lost); "lab[ourers] [one] hundred" at 6d., being 60l. a month. Three purveyors, at 12d.; 10 clerks (detailed), 6 of them at 8d. a day. Total for provisions and wages, "this year," (fn. 18) the surveyor's, paymaster's, and comptroller's wages excepted, 3,562l. 13s. 4d. Pp. 7. | |
v. Totals of money paid for iron and other materials, and the carpenters, labourers, hoymen, &c. (heading lost). P. 1. | |
vi. Criticisms on the expenditure of the King's money in 20 different pays. Pp. 22. | |
15 Jan. Cleop. E. v. 382. B.M.Strype's Eccl. Mem. I., II. 271. |
93. ROLAND bishop of COVENTRY AND LICHFIELD to [CROMWELL]. |
Thanks for your lordship's loving letters to me by bearer. These parts are in as good towardness to do the King service as any subjects living; and little amongst them conceived of the matters in England; for their language does not agree to the advancement thereof. Wrote long ago that at Ludlow was no artillery, but a little harness I gathered from Sir Richard Herberte, who does the King good service. The earl of Worcester wrote to me to redeliver it; but I made him an answer therein. Remember the commission this Council has so long sued to your lordship for. I will repair this castle further if I may have the commission; but without it this Council can do no good service, as Mr. Englefild did inform you, who sends commendations. The proclamations for the shire grounds be not come, and justice cannot be ministered in Wales. I doubt the effect of the tract thereof, for I am daily called upon at this time, being the time of keeping the courts. I thank you for Germyn, and once again "for my servant Lewes' ferme to Whitney, if it may so be." Be good lord to my cousin Robenson. | |
I received the enclosed articles from St. David's, "wherein and in other such like in that person," if you were to stay for the time, the common people would be better content. Here is somewhat spoken towards him that I am sorry to h[ear], but my duty is to report it. An Austin friar, prior of Woodehouse in Cleeland, without authority, despached the goods of his monastery, and changed his vesture in this ruffling time. George Blount attached him, and has him at Beawdeley. If you would put a substantial man in that place it would be good for that country, who are as tall men as any the King has, and are of the honour of Wigmore. All is quiet. Wigmore, 15 Jan. | |
Have a great many small felonies which we cannot despatch till we know the King's pleasure for shire grounds. Signed. | |
P. 2. | |
Cleop. E. v. 383. B. M. Ib. p. 273. |
2. "Concio Meneven. Ep'i, facta" 12 Nov. 1536. |
Four articles which "he affirmed," i.e. (1) that where two or three simple persons, as cobblers or weavers, are assembled in the name of God, there is the true Church of God, (2) that confession is inexpedient, (3) Purgatory was an invention of the bishop of Rome and our priests to get lucre, (4) that the King could make any learned layman a bishop. | |
"Concio Tallei habita Menevenie coram Epo. ibm. ac aliis palam, xixo die predci, mensis." | |
He affirmed, (1) that in times past was none that did preach the word of God truly; (2) that reverence to saints is pure idolatery; (3) that souls departed have no need of our prayers. | |
"These articles were exhibited" to the reverend father in God, the lord President of the Council, in the Marches of Wales, 11 Jan. 28 Henry VIII., by me, Roger Lewes, LL.B., of St. David's. | |
P. 1. | |
[Jan.] R. O. |
94. [Sir] HENRY LONG to CROMWELL. |
I received your letter by my servant, who was with your lordship a little before Christmas. As for the charges I was at by the King's command, I had prepared 300 men, but only sent six score, and was ready to follow with 100 more, according to my second letter. You would know how far they went towards Amptell. They went to Oxonford, 40 miles from my house, and returned. Please give credence to the bearer, who paid my money in everything. I ask no allowance for them that tarried at home. I desire your favour, for I must pay much money now about Candlemas. Signed. | |
P. 1. Add: Lord Privy Seal. Endd. | |
15 Jan. | 95. SIR RALPH EVERS, jun., Keeper of Scarborough Castle. |
See GRANTS in JANUARY, No. 10. |