Henry VIII: June 1542, 11-20

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 17, 1542. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1900.

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Citation:

'Henry VIII: June 1542, 11-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 17, 1542, ed. James Gairdner, R H Brodie( London, 1900), British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol17/pp228-241 [accessed 27 July 2024].

'Henry VIII: June 1542, 11-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 17, 1542. Edited by James Gairdner, R H Brodie( London, 1900), British History Online, accessed July 27, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol17/pp228-241.

"Henry VIII: June 1542, 11-20". Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 17, 1542. Ed. James Gairdner, R H Brodie(London, 1900), , British History Online. Web. 27 July 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol17/pp228-241.

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June 1542, 11-20

11 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 11.
396. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 11 June. Present : Norfolk, Southampton, Sussex, Hertford, Russell, Durham, Westminster, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Sadler. Business :Read minutes of letters to Sir Thos. Wharton, and to lord Lisle and Sir Ric. Southwell, commissioners at Berwick.
11 June.
R. O.
397. Wallop to Henry VIII.
In this his other letter inclosed informed the King of the desire Mons. de Beez had to meet him (Wallop) a hunting. Next day, he sent to say that he had made a "bushon and lodged plenty of game," not so near Guisnes Forest as he reckoned, but at Arbretton, and, on account of the distance, was doubtful of Wallop's coming. Was right glad, and said that he could not conveniently go so far and be at Calais the same night, where he had promised to christen Mr. Vaughan's child. The gentleman took this excuse very well, and said De Beez would do the like. Writes their further conversation to the lord Privy Seal.
Yesternight, on arriving at Calais, Jeronymo, Ytalion, the King's servant, told him that the two Pawlmers said the King wished him, before returning to England, to go to Turwan; but, considering that his proceedings have taken so good effect, and are not mistrusted, he thinks his being at Turwan would cause suspicion, if reported to De Beez, as his being at Arde was. And he thinks all De Beez's fortresses are warned against strangers. If he might first come over, he has a long "discusse" of his proceedings to make, and if sent back again, after his being in these parts is forgotten, he could serve better. If the King commands him to go, he passes not whether he is discovered or not, but thinks he should have another conductor than either of the Pawlmers, for they were together before, and the bailey (fn. 1) "is known all over." He was with Wallop this morning at the making of this letter.
Yesternight, coming hither, met the French ambassador's nephew riding post to the French Court. "Demanding if he came in the ship that carried the flag, and who came with him, thinking there had been some great personage by reason of the said flag, he, answering me shortly that there came no other but a number of labourers with him, and he came not in the ship where the said flag was, so therewith departed." Learnt here that it was Candische that came to conduct the Emperor's ambassador. If the ambassador's nephew knew it he would spur the faster; for the going of the Emperor's ambassador into Flanders is much feared in France, and shall be the more when they hear of his return so shortly. The Emperor's subjects of Flanders and Artois much "rejoice of the bruits that now runneth." Calais, 11 June. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd. : 1542.
12 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 12.
398. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 12 June. Present : Southampton, Hertford, Russell, Durham, Westminster, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Sadler. Business :Letters despatched to Lisle and Southwell, to Wharton, and to the bp. of Carlisle, lord Latimer, Dr. Leigh, &c., commissioners in the Borders.
[*** Next entry is 14 June.]
13 June.
R. O.
399. The Privy Council to Lisle and Southwell.
We have received your letters of 24 May, with the books and writings therewith, and have declared the effect to the King, who has commanded us to answer that, albeit, through the negligence of the captain and other officers, Berwick has been in such disorder, and the ordinances so neglected that the King might well, in displeasure, remove them from their offices; yet, he has determined, upon trust of their amendment, to forbear. Calling before you the captain and other head officers, you shall give them a special commandment that every man look to his charge, according to the old statutes and ordinances of the town, which shall henceforth be observed in all points. As you write that the porter there is in great default for negligence, appointing mean persons under him at far smaller wages "than that is allowed unto him for the same," and taking toll and bribery at the gate contrary to the order, you shall before departing appoint an able person to be under-porter, with convenient wages; and also specially command the said chief porter and other officers who have been "common out liers," henceforth to "keep the town and demoure upon their charge." Having put the captain and other head officers "in a towardness of a good order," and foreseen all things tending to the sure keeping of the town, "as a town of war," they shall return to the King with diligence.
The King sends his servant Rogers to view the castle of Warke and house of Carham, and report how they may be strengthened; and has so instructed him by letters. They shall accompany him, see him make "plottes" according to his instructions, and mark well the sites and ground about both places, so as to be able to report to the King.
Before your departure, "see such redress in the captain, porter, and all other officers there as neither any herdman [there]of from henceforth have the custody of the key of any wa[rde ?]; neither that at the gate be required hereafter any such kind of briberies and exactions as heretofore hath been used, and that none of them use any accustomable lying out without the King's Highness' especial licence, unless it be for a night or two with licence of the captain." Commanding the captain, without fear or favour, to enforce order, and use vigilance "in the due search of the scoutwatches, standwatches, and serwache [search watch ?] as appertaineth to his office."
Draft, pp. 12, with corrections by Sadler, and last paragraph in Mason's hand. Endd. : Letter to the lord Lisle an[d] Mr. Southwell, from Hampton Court, 13 June ao 1542.
13 June.
R. O. St. P., IX. 46.
400. Paget to Henry VIII.
Hearing tell that a great ambassador was come from the great king of Sweden (as they call him here), and Monte Pulciano (of whom he wrote before) also arrived, and that both should have audience on Sunday last, took occasion to go to Court; for, here, ambassadors come not to Court without occasion. Saluted the Admiral, and said the chief cause of his coming was to do reverence to the King and him, but yet he had a suit to make for a poor Englishman in Brittayn, who, having process about a piracy, was by his adversary cast into prison as a Lutheran. The Admiral promised justice, saying it was a great abuse to invent one matter to defeat another, and "such like good words, as though the Englishman had hired him to be his attorney." Coming to the place where the King lay, the Admiral, holding Paget by the hand and rejecting others that would speak with him, seemed very desirous to talk. Gives their conversation verbatim, in which the Admiral asked if he had letters from England, for theirs were unimportant, only how the King ordered the state of his realm, and yet there was a strange report by private letters, that the Emperor had married the daughter of England, that the Emperor's ambassador was gone into Flanders, that there was another marriage for the king of Romans' son, and that the solemnities were already done; adding that he had letters of it from Flanders, Spain, Lyons, and Rome, and that Henry would make war for the Emperor, lend money upon gage of towns in Flanders, and undertake the protection of Flanders. Paget answered merrily, saying, "The Spaniards and the Flemings send these news abroad for nothing else but to make a preparatif for Pulciano, thereby to dissolve your complexions, and to make you apt to take his potions. I advise you take heed. It cometh out of Italy and from Rome." Added that, as for war, the King would make war on no man without very great cause; munitions might be sent to furnish the works at Calais and Guisnes, as the French sent them Jast year to Arde; there were bruits last year about the workmen sent, which proved vain, and if, as some here said, the Emperor would not join with England unless England joined the bishop of Rome they would never join. The Admiral said that was true, but there was much talk of this money : what did Paget say for the loan of the money ? Paget wagged his head and said his master was no babe. The Admiral then said his master thought no less of Henry than ever, but thought some of his Council, seeing the cheer they made the Emperor's ambassador, pricked him forward. Paget said that in his Court it was thought good manners to entertain a stranger. The Admiral said he meant the coming to his lodging. Answered that that might be because he had the gout, but, as for pricking forward, the King could see as far as all his Counsellors, and was president of his own Council. The Admiral said he and his master talked of the King yesternight an hour together, upon the occasion of Pulciano's coming. Paget said his master had nothing to do with Pulciano or his master; and all the world knew that he came, seeing they had their men already in Piedmont, to make them lose their labour. The Admiral said divers overtures were made from Rome, and the Emperor's minister had come four leagues hither to practise with them, but if anything was mentioned that touched England he should know; and took Paget to dine with him.
After dinner there came into the stable where they dined Il Nuncio and De Monte Pulciano; whereupon the Admiral made haste to rise, but could not get out at the nether end of the board for the number that sat beneath, and Paget sat still at the upper end, leaning upon the manger until the Admiral prayed him to rise. He made them wondrous good countenance, considering his ill words before, and received letters from De Monte Pulciano, and then to get rid of Paget, prayed the Cardinall of Challons to conduct him to where the King was dining. Thither, within a while, came the Admiral, followed by the Nuncio and Pulciano, and they three sat together on a stool awaiting the King's rising, who made no haste to speak with them, for, after dinner, he talked an hour with the Chancellor d'Alenon, and then went into his privy chamber, followed by the Admiral.
Has above related his conference with the Admiral, who seemed satisfied. The bruit is great of Henry's amity with the Emperor, the marriage, the war, the loan; and all seem both afraid and sorry, for both courtiers and peasants acknowledge Henry's benevolence to this King. Goes abroad in his cape, unknown, and talks with all sorts, and all agree that their King is unable to pay England, or even maintain the men in Piedmont long; for all money raised since last war is gone in entertaining the Emperor, when here, and the duke of Cleves, paying pensions to Italians, Almains, Suisses, gensdarmes, and their captains here, fortifying Arde, Mountfaulcon, Satheney, and Turin, building, and buying of jewels for himself and others. This Chancellor devises means to get money, and causes murmuring, so that the Bretons, for losing their salt trade, and the Normans, for new imposts, are ready to rebel.
The French king, returning out of his chamber within a quarter of an hour, called for the Nuncio and Pulciano, received their brief, and made as brief reading of it and sat down. His manner showed that he liked not the matter. They delivered a schedule of the articles of the treaty, and were not with him a quarter of an hour. "At their departing he made them very pleasant countenances." Learns this morning that Pulciano's treaty is for a peace, with offer on the Emperor's behalf of Milan upon the conditions before annexed to the offer of Flanders, and request of respite until September for the conclusion. It is thought they will not agree, and much the rather if this King be out of "doubt" of England, for he refused Flanders because in hope of the marriage with England; but now, having lost hope of amity, and fearing the contrary, if the Emperor come anything roundly to him he will not refuse. The bishop of Rome wants no help here to join them together. Desires instructions in case the French king or Admiral renew treaty of the marriage (which he is told they consult upon) or speak of Henry's joining with the Emperor, as perhaps they will, upon some fresh news from their ambassador or Mons. de Bese, who sends hither often, and seems to have much espial there.
For the ambassador of Sweden's audience, a great barn was prepared with green boughs set about the posts, the walls hung with old tapestry, and a cloth of estate, at one side, under which stood a little scaffold six foot square, with a chair thereon covered with a cloth of tissue. After dismissing Pulciano, the King came thither with his two sons, six cardinals, the duke of Guise, the duke of Bar (being here with his wife to visit the King), the prince of Melphi, the Chancellor and the Admiral. Paget stood next the King's sons. The King waited a long hour in his chair, until, at last, the three ambassadors came, viz., the Chancellor of Sweden, the Queen's brother, and another of the king of Sweden's Council called Ruytter Knowght, and a secretary, with 50 or 60 servants. Need not write the King's manner of meeting them, which was very gentle but lacked the majesty which Paget has seen in Henry in like case. The ambassadors delivered their letter of credence and a book of instructions of 6 or 7 sheets of paper in their own tongue; and the secretary, in Latin, declared his master's power and his desire to join in amity with the French king. The Chancellor of France, also in Latin, returned thanks, declared his master's like desire, and concluded that they would talk together apart. The King came down from his seat, and stood all this while outside the cloth of estate, with the princes, cardinals, gentlemen, and yeomen mingled "all in a heap" round him.
D'Anebault is gone to Piedmont, and so is Brysack, who conducts the footmen, and, within these three days, Mons. de Vendosme is gone to Picardy, and Blanchefosse to Almayn. Piers Strozza has taken possession of Maran, as captain, in the King's name; and Turchetto is made a knight here with 500 cr. reward, 500 fr. pension, and a letter to the Venetians in his favour. This King says his 30,000 foot in Piedmont shall be 10,000 French, 6,000 Italians, and the rest Almains and Swiss, with 1,500 men of arms and 2,000 light horse; and that he knows "his good brother of England" will sit still and meddle with neither party. Janus Bey's mission was only to league the Venetians with the French king against the Emperor. The passage of Turkish horsemen and the great force of the Turk were but seeds sown here, and even the French king (who is not wont to make the least in such a case) has reduced the 300 sail at the least to 100 at the most, and the 300,000 horsemen to 100,000 of all sorts, and says the Grand Signior will not this year come himself, but send only a Basshy. "Janus Bey's answer of the Venetians is that they will be neuters; whereby, sir, they shall break league with the Emperor, to whom they are bound for the defence of Millan to furnish 6,000 footmen and eight hundred horsemen." The King says he pities the Almains "that will so wilfully cast themselves away." Mons. Dade can get no answer about the marriage of Portugal. The bruit here is that Lady Mary's illness causes the stay of their treaty with England. Chevalier Daus, going with three galleys for Constantinople, was chased backed to Marseilles by galleys of Genes.
Hearing that the Dolphin bore no love to England, took occasion, upon the words, "O, I would the King your master had known how well Mons. d'Orleans loveth him," to marvel why the Dolphin should not do the same. "'Mary,' quod this person with whom I talked, 'I wot not what the Devil aileth him not to love your master, and I have mused much of it; but, surely, I think Madame la Grande Seneschalle (fn. 2) hath witched him, for he loveth the Emperor exceedingly, and also the Constable, and all that draw that ways; howbeit it maketh no matter, he wotteth not well what neither love nor hate meaneth, for he is not wise." Vessy, 13 June 6 a.m. (fn. 3) Signed.
Pp. 12. Endd. : "Mr. Paget to the K. Mate xiijo Junii ao xxxiiijo."
Caius College, MS. 597, p. 110. 2. Letter-book copy of the preceding, in the hand of Paget's clerk.
Pp. 11.
14 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 12.
401. The Privy Council.
Meeting at the Moore, 14 June. Present : Southampton, Sussex, Russell, Durham, Westminster, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Sadler. No business recorded.
14 June.
R. O.
402. The Privy Council to Paget.
The King, hearing many bruits touching France and others, marvels that of long time he has not heard from Paget. Supposing the interception of letters, stopping of posts or lack of health to be the cause, he commands them to despatch a post express to hear from him, not doubting but that he does his utmost to learn affairs of all parts, especially of France, "their inclinations and proceedings."
Draft in Sadler's hand, pp. 2. Endd. : "The minute of the Council's [letter to Mr. Paget from the] Moore 14 Junii 154[2]."
14 June.
R. O.
403. Edmond Harvel to Henry VIII.
His last was of the 3rd inst. Here is continual rumour of the French assembling in Piedmont, and that 24 French galleys, with many rebels of Naples, are gone to join Barbarossa. They esteem Barbarossa to be abroad, and that the Turk will go to Hungary. Ferdinando has assembled men in Vienna, intending "by all the present" to be at Buda with 120,000 foot and horse. He will have 200 sails upon the Danubio. In Buda are 8,000 Turks, supported by 60,000 Turkish horse upon the confines of Hungary. Lately, 500 light horse went from Italy to Hungary. The Bishop made 4,000 foot; but, for suspicion of the French, sends Ferdinando money, instead, and will send the men to Mirandola, to impedite the assembly which the French intended there. The Marqu s of Guasto has made many men to defend Milan and has fortified his towns. These days past was a great skirmish in Piedmont, and many of the Emperor's part slain. Of the Emperor is no mention, "but that he should be grieved with the gout." Venice, 14 June 1542.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
15 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 12.
404. The Privy Council.
Meeting at the Moore, 15 June. Present : Southampton, Sussex, Russell, Durham, Winchester, Westminster, Gage, Browne, Wriothesley, Sadler. Business :Letters sent to the lord Chancellor to search for indentures between the King's progenitors and the captains of Guernsey and Jersey. Letters written to Serjeant Hales and Mr. Broke, common serjeant of London, to appear at Hampton Court on the 25th. Letter sent to the warden of the Fleet, to send hither John Weston, prisoner. Letter devised in French to the bp. of Constance's vicar general.
15 June.
R. O.
405. Wallop to Sir Thos. Cheyney.
Thanks for a brace of greyhounds. Writes because four gentlemen of Kent, have been with him, within these three days, of whom he would the King had four such in every shire; who here reasoned marvellous wittily, "and could not be confounded by any that reasoned with them, as well in 'gemetrie,' as things concerning navigation and the discerning of altitude as longitude; and as for the art belonging to gunners I have seen none such, insomuch that all those that reckoneth themselves cunning on this sides of the sea giveth place unto them, as well in arguments of their sciences as in their doing, which I have both heard and seen, not a little rejoicing thereat, being gentlemen." Prays him to advance their suit to travel abroad this year. They are Tucke, "your servant that is captain of the bulwark," Digges, Wylforde, and Tucke that was on the sea.
The Frenchmen much fear war, and bruit that the King has sent money to the Emperor, that the Great Master of Flanders is going into England, and that a good number of Almens and Spaniards shall be shortly upon these borders. The Imperial party rejoice at the friendship of the Emperor and the King, and think that both together will make war against the Frenchmen; insomuch that the Countie Penois, whom my lord Admiral knows, sent a gentleman to me, at my late being at Calais, with a letter of credence and commission, to declare his desire to serve the King with 500 or 600 horse, and that he would send for his son, who is with the Emperor, to be lieutenant of them. Encloses the letter and memorial. Answered that he knew of no war likely to be on the King's behalf, but if he saw any appearance of it, he would gladly be a means for him, and till then it were best not to advertise the King. Begs him to show this, and the above news to the King or Council, and give his commendations to Norfolk, of whose "pleasure concerning Thorpe, his servant" Wallop is glad, and the poor man much gladder, whom he will entertain for the present. Guisnes, 15 June. Signed.
P.S.After closing this, a servant who was yesterday at Hardingham fair, beside Fiennes, reported that a gentleman of France with 8 horses passed through the fair, of whom divers captains of Picardy asked, What news? "He, shaking his head, said, 'Naught;' saying, 'Mons. de Vandosme shall come with all speed that he can to Arde, bringing with him more men of war to put there in garrison; and that the Great Master of Flanders is now at Remyngham assembling men-of-war together.'" Trusts to know the truth within three days.
Pp. 3. Add. : treasurer of the King's household. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo. Begins : "My very good brother,".
ii. F. de Meleun [Count d'Epinoy] to Wallop.
Sends bearer to show his desire to serve the King, seeing the friendship between the Emperor and him. Sainghuin, 9 June 1542. Signed.
French, p. 1. Add. : "A Maistre Wallot, capitaine et gouverneur de Guines."
iii. Credence on the part of "Monsieur," to show the service he did the King before Turwane, and the passage of the Somme, he having been at the taking of Mondider and of Belle, (fn. 4) that he desires to go into England, after mustering 500 or 600 horse, and requests an answer. Likewise to declare the alliance between the prince his son and the daughter of Agmount, of which there is but one son, whom he would cause to come [hither]. Chasteau de Sainguin, 9 June.
French, p. 1.
15 June.
Royal MS. 18 B. VI. 138. B. M.
406. James V. to Montmorency.
Not having news of him for some time, sends this gentleman with a present of two or three hackneys. Offers service if he can do him any pleasure. Edinburgh, 15 June.
French. Copy, p. 1. Subscribed : A mon cousin Mons. le Connestable.
10 and 16 June. 407. Bishopric Of Bristol.
See Grants in June, Nos. 19, 34.
16 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 13.
408. The Privy Council.
Meeting at the Moore, 16 June. Present : Southampton, Sussex, Russell, Durham, Winchester, Westminster, Gage, Browne, Wriothesley, Sadler. Business :Letters received from Mr. Paget by Hampnes pursuivant. Letters out of Jersey to Mr. Long, touching the accusation of a priest, read.
16 June.
R. O.
409. Wallop to the Council.
Received their letter, dated at the More, 14 June, on the 16th before noon, telling of receipt of his letters by Thos. Barnaby, and to send Jeronimo, the Italian, with speed. Has, since his letters by Barnaby, written to Mr. Treasurer, in a postcript, how a servant he sent to Herdinghen fair, beside Fiennes, reported that a gentleman of France passed through the fair, who, when asked the news, replied, "Riens de bon," and that Mons. de Vandosme should come with all speed to Arde with more men for the garrison. The Great Master of Flanders was, within this two days at Tournehen, where to him resorted many rich men, asking what to do with their goods and themselves. He counselled them to keep themselves in safeguard and readiness, and not make so great a rumour. He stayed until, towards night, horsemen came to conduct him to his house at Remyngham. He gathers men of war. All of Boullenois and Picardy are in great fear, and they daily bring their goods into the towns and lie there nightly. Du Bies has 10,000 men ready, and Vendosme is looked for, in 3 or 4 days, at Arde; where, to-morrow or next day, will come 500 footmen, with 12 great pieces of ordnance. Has six espials out on both frontiers.
Jeronimo carries this, who came from Calais not an hour before the receipt of their letter. On hearing the King's pleasure, he cast up his hands to Heavenward, and gave thanks to God, saying "I am now at liberty."
Thanks the lord Privy Seal for his gentle letter in favour of Calveley. Guisnes, 16 June. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
17 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 13.
410. The Privy Council.
Meeting at the Moore, 17 June. Present : Southampton, Sussex, Russell, Durham, Winchester, Westminster, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Sadler. Business :Letters of thanks sent to the President of the Welsh Council for his dexterity in managing the loan. Recognisance (cited) of John Weston, of Clingstedde, Kent, to attend.
17 June.
R. O.
411. Wallop to the Council.
Answered theirs of the 14th yesterday, by Jeronimo, declaring that he had six espials out. Of those in Flanders, one, sent to Hasbroke fair, reports that on Tuesday last the French buyers of horses there suddenly fled thence, and returned next day for the horses they had bought. Their fear was caused by a great number of horsemen that went from St. Omer's to Tournehen to conduct the Great Master of Flanders to Remyngham. The other espial reports from Bredenerd that, yesterday, at 2 p.m., the Great Master came to Mountory, with 30 horses from Bittain and Heire, (fn. 5) because the labourers durst not tarry there for fear of the Frenchmen. He said to the labourers, "Fear you nothing, for within these ij or iij days ye shall have 300 men of war to lie here;" and commanded each to wear a St. Andrew's cross. They remained to their work, and the Great Master went home that night to Remyngham. They of Bredenerd daily carry their stuff to St. Omer's and other holds, for fear of sudden adventures. The third espial is not yet returned.
Of the three sent into Picardy, the first says Mons. de Fuxsalles came from the Court to Boulogne on Thursday last, that people speak much of war, and that fourteen days will show whether they shall have war or peace, that 300 or 400 footmen are coming to Arde, and that they fear the King shall join the Emperor. The second reports that farmers about Mustrull put their goods in safety, and much fear war with England; and that there is great bruit and fear of war in the French Court, as Mons. de Fuxsalles reported, who arrived at Boulogne on the 15th. The third (sent to know the secrets of the fortifications of Boulogne), says there is a rampire of earth within the town, 48 feet broad, but they trust more in "a tower called Franchois, the tower Notre Dame, the gate of the town and the Castle, in which there be loops a low that appeareth not, and at all times, when need shall require, be as ready as the other, not serving for any other purpose, but for the flanks only." Of caves, vaults, ditches, or trenches for mines "they" know not. They are now fortifying the South gate. Guisnes, 17 June. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
18 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 13.
412. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 18 June. Present : Norfolk, Southampton, Sussex, Russell, Durham, Winchester, Westminster, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Sadler. Business :Letters received from the commissioners of the loan in Cheshire of the towardness of the gentlemen and untowardness of certain merchants there. Recognisance (cited) of(blank) Shelton, touching his father's debt to Nic. Dikhoff of the Hanse and Thos. Stekling, brewer.
[*** Next entry is 20 June.]
19 June.
R. O.
413. Wallop to Henry VIII.
This morning, divers poor men make great lamentation that their horses, 27 in number, that serve in the works, going in a pasture called the Whete Felde next the Park hedge, were last night hurt and killed. Conjectures that it must have been done by Frenchmen, and was minded to give weapons to the labourers in the chalk pits by Fiennes Hill, who are the tallest in the works, and have the Forest nigh to retire to, but durst not give them weapons without the King's authority, as it would raise a bruit all over Picardy.
Has no other news than he sent to the King by Jeronimo, and to the Council the day following, save that Anthony Brusett, captain of Gravelinges, came to him on Saturday last, and stayed the Sunday. He said his coming was only to make good cheer and rejoice that the King and Emperor were now friends, to the joy of all Flanders, where (he says) 3,200 horse are ready, which is 1,200 above the ordinary, and there is great bruit of war, but no assembly of footmen. Has no news of assembly of Frenchmen, but they furnish their garrisons at Arde, Boulogne, Mustrull, Hesding, and Tyrwan. Mons. de Vandosme's coming is deferred till next month.
Describes the state of the works at Guisnes, which now begin to appear to the contentation of the eye.
At finishing this, heard that last week 3,000 footmen mustered at Andwarpe. Guisnes, 19 June. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
20 June.
Dasent's A.P.C., 14.
414. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 20 June. Present : Norfolk, Southampton, Sussex, Russell, Durham, Winchester, Westminster, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Sadler. No business recorded.
20 June.
Kaulek, 426. (Full abstract.)
415. Marillac to Francis I.
In his last, which he sent by his cousin, wrote of the passage of the Emperor's ambassador into Flanders and of the hurried naval preparations. The ambassador arrived here three days ago, and went to the King at More, where he still awaits the lords of Flanders, whom he was to bring, and who are awaited at Dover by some lords of this Court. Touching the preparations made here, adds some particulars which strengthen the suspicion that war is to be guarded against. The duke of Norfolk has been so received and caressed that presumably there is need of him. To lead a host there is no personage in England like him; and all men who have been heretofore used in war are ordinarily at his house reckoning to be soon employed. It causes surprise that he is not one of the deputies to negotiate with the said Ambassador, but is attending to the exaction of the money of this great loan, having intimated to those assessed, on pain of imprisonment, to pay within fifteen days. The King does not leave the neighbourhood of this city, whereas he was wont at such a season to make his progress; which was this year ordered to extend as far as Wales, and provision was there made for it, but he suddenly changed his mind, and sent word not to expect him. The equipping of ten great ships of war continues with such diligence that, for ten leagues round, every carpenter and other workmen necessary is employed in it. Artillery of brass and iron, with munitions of powder and bullets, are carried daily to the said ships; the biscuit and beer ordered is kept ready; nothing is done in the Tower, but dress bows, iron arrows and pikes, mount artillery, prepare waggons, "faire les herces ou les archiers on accoustum de s'embarquer pour n'estre rompuz par les gens de cheval" and coin money day and night of the silver plate obtained from this loan, and from the spoil of the abbeys. The execution of the design ought therefore to be soon; and some who are able to know say that in less than a month will be seen an effort as unexpected as a thunder clap, and that they do not expect a long war, but the forcing of some town on your frontiers, in order to speak afterwards of an appointment with you, which they expect to obtain easily as you would be at war with the Emperor. The common bruit is that they will have the pensions by force; and Marillac has been asked why it is that they are not paid, but has replied that when this King spoke of it he would think of an answer. Has heard that about Cornwall there were some eighteen ships of war ready to sail, and laden with victuals, but that, a few days ago, they (the victuals) were unladen, and delivered to the keeping of the houses near, with injunctions that they should be reladen upon 24 hours' warning. It is said that this was to fetch the Emperor, who was to embark in Galicia, and come from the cape of Fineterre to that of Cornwall. Has seen reports of this kind from merchants of Spain, but the bruit of it has been greater than it now is. The ambassadors sent to Scotland have written that musters of men-of-war have been made in their presence, and that, at this next St. John's tide, there will be a general muster of all who can bear arms. On this side none are yet made, nor any levies of men except 2,000 pioneers to be sent to the fortifications of Guynes. The brothers (fn. 6) of the two Queens last dead have gone to Germany to take part in the expedition of Hungary.
French. Headed : 20 June. Marked as sent by Denis.
20 June.
R. O.
416. John Carewe to Mr. Carewe, Receiver to Lady Anne of Cleves.
Desires to know Mr. Worsley's pleasure for his offices of Pymperne and Wylkesworth, where one has entered and discharged the farmer : it is against reason that Mr. Worsley should have the writer's money and another the fee. Encloses a letter received from Mr. Gates about his butlerage of Pole, promising the writer the office if Mr. Strangweyz refuse it. This is scarce worth a thank; but has written promising Gates 20 mks. a year if he occupy the office. Pole, 20 June.
Hol., p. 1. Add. : Right worshipful. A second address : To Mr. Gate.

R. O
417. Wymounde Carew to [John] Gates.
Brother Gate, I pray you to stay the bill for the comptrollership of Pole, for the office was given yesterday at the suit of lord Sent John to one Ric. Austell. Please "have my brother Deny in remembrance to my lord of Canterbury for my son, as also to know whether he will be so good brother to me as to appoint" that Sir Giles Stranwiche may declare his suit to the King in person. This will be a pleasure to me and my brother Thomas and make him more affectionate to my said brother and his wife.
Hol., p. 1. Fly leaf with address lost.
20 June.
R. O. St. P., IX. 55.
418. Paget to Henry VIII.
After Pulciano had (as Paget wrote) spoken with the King on Sunday, the 11th inst., and delivered a schedule of offers and demands, he was sent for on the morrow to receive his answer of the Chancellor and Admiral. Learnt, with much ado (as will be seen), that they have proceeded as follows. Pulciano was sent to Spain with command to return by this Court if the Emperor liked his overture. He returned straight to Rome, and tarried there 14 days before coming hither. Has described his access. Credence from the Emperor he had none, and yet he offered on the Emperor's behalf to deliver Milan (Alexandria reserved) to the duke of Orleans, before October, with his daughter in marriage, to hold, in tail male, in fee of the Empire, with remainder to the Emperor's heirs, kings of Spain. In return he demands renunciation of the title of Navarre, surrender of Bourgoin, Savoy, and Piedmont, and renunciation of all other titles in Italy and Naples, except Milan. This first overture he delivered on Sunday. On Monday the Chancellor and Admiral told him that if he had nothing else to say he might depart, for their master thought this a mockery. He then proposed that the Emperor would deliver Milan and his daughter to Orleans, out of hand; to hold Milan to them and their heirs, as other dukes have held; requiring in return Bourgoyn, restitution of Hesdyn, of Maran to King Ferdinand, and of Savoy and Piedmont to the duke of Savoy, with renunciation of all titles in Italy and Naples. He said his Holy Father and all the Cardinals thought the King would not refuse this; but the King would not agree for Bourgoyn, and said, as for Savoy and Piedmont, that the Emperor should have talked with him before he fortified it. He left Court in despair, minding to return to Rome next day, and complaining to a friend that the King was in fault; but, by means of this friend (Paget thinks) the Queen of Navarre sent for him, and after long conference, sent him to the King. The King said he might doubt whether the overtures came from the Emperor, seeing the Emperor's ambassador made no motion of them, and willed Pulciano to come next day to Jaynvile to receive answer. At Jaynvile the King made answer to Pulciano (the Emperor's ambassador standing talking with the Admiral) that he liked not the two overtures, and would himself propose a third, viz., that he would have Milan in such form as Pulciano proposed last, "so as the Emperor would marry his daughter," and would deliver Hesdin, Maran, Savoy, and Piedmont (but would first raze all the fortifications in Fiedmont, giving the duke of Orleans in pledge until it was delivered), and renounce all other titles in Italy and Naples. Pulciano promised to carry this overture into Spain, and give answer both from Spain and Rome in 25 days, begging the King not to think that his master meant to tract time or stay the enterprise he had begun. "No more I will, you may be sure," quod the King; adding that he would, for more expedition, send a gentleman with Pulciano into Spain, and a memorial of the overture in writing. The King then, after talking with the Admiral, called the Emperor's ambassador, and they had, as usual, a hot conference. To believe the ambassador, they talked nothing of Pulciano's overtures (and indeed the ambassador had sent that morning for audience to deliver a letter from the Queen of Hungary); yet Pulciano departed that day in good hope, and, for a triumph (apparently), "the King and Queen, and all the Court, both men and women, were gorgeously apparelled." Next day Pulciano despatched to Rome Cavaliero Ugolini, governor of Signor Horacio, and took leave for Spain, thinking to have with him the gentleman and the memorial; but the King had changed his purpose; at which Pulciano complained to his friend, and was depressed, but determined to go to Spain and do his best; and so departed hence on Friday, the 16th inst. Has the above from near friend of Pulciano's friend, with the addition that, for the Emperor's further assurance that this King will meddle no further in Italy, the Bishop of Rome travails to join himself and the Emperor in league with all the states of Italy.
This King pretends to slack nothing of his enterprise, and practises still to allure the Italians. The Counts of Myrandula and Petylian, Signor Jehan Paulo, and others of the retinue in Italy, are appointed to come into Piedmont, and money is sent thither. In Gascoyn and the borders of Navarre men be ready. Into Lorraine are come 4,000 Almains, and more follow. The duke of Cleves has horsemen ready (as La Planche has brought word, who returns thither shortly). The Emperor sleeps not; although Guasto sent him word to sleep, for he would keep account of Milan. In Navarre and those borders a great number of Spaniards are "accompanied," and in these Nether Countries the Regent is at Mons, ready. For all this treaty of peace, a servant of this King's who went to practise with certain Almains is "trussed up," by means of duke Wolfang (of whom Paget wrote about Christmas), who, very lately, revolted from this King (although he had his pension) because the King entertains Count Guillaume. To get money, another disme is asked of the clergy, all fellowships and fraternities are commanded to bring in all their plate before Midsummer, and the greatest wood sale ever seen in France is made in the forest of Biere (between the Loire and Marne, the Seine running almost in the midst of it), to the value of 50,000 mks. sterling, the 35 merchants to bring in the money before 20 July, and have ten years to fell it.
The ambassadors of Sweden treat in the King's privy chamber, which is unusual, although they only treat the articles that were treated with Denmark. News of Hungary is none, but that "we" dispraise the captains of the army, and lament their charges this year, which are lost, as the Grand Seigneur intends to send no army this year. This King appointed to muster his gentlemen at Lyons, 1 July; but now appearances are to the contrary, for the King's great horses are stayed, and Nevers and Canaples, captains of the gentlemen, have recalled their trains, which were at Digeon towards Lyons. The King will lie hereabouts, if this treaty goes not forward with the Emperor (as these Frenchmen trust, and these ladies desire) to make some enterprise, and see what England will do; for they think Henry will do what he can to join the Emperor, as the Queen of Navarre said yesterday, who was as dainty to speak with Paget as if she had never known him or his master until he "wrang in" by talking of religion, and then "she brake with me as th' Admiral did, in effect," and had like answer. Noted that she said England forsook them, and therefore they might lawfully join with the Emperor. This may have come of herself, but now, since De Formes came from the ambassador there (with news that Henry prepares ships, and had levied money to lend the Emperor, and sent into Almain to practise for lansknightes and, with the Hanse cities, for ships, and has sent a gentleman (fn. 7) of his Privy Chamber to the king of Romans, and another (fn. 8) to the king of Scots), Paget is looked strangely upon, and commandment issued that no ambassador be lodged nearer the Court than four leagues. Secured lodging for himself within one league. De Formes says he is too well lodged, the King has looked at him without giving him any countenance, espials are set upon him, and the Admiral has checked some for resorting to him. Shows himself a good Frenchman, but fears they think the contrary.
Immediately upon his last despatch, the gentleman (fn. 9) that was last in England was in hand with him for a picture of Henry's daughter, on the duke of Orleans's behalf (with the Admiral's consent, as appeared by the terming of his tale, and because another gentleman of the Admiral's had been likewise in hand with him), and to know whether this matter of marriage could be renewed. Answered that he knew not how to come by the picture, and that the matter had been treated by their ambassador in England, by whom this King, if he meant any such thing, would doubtless proceed.
Begs instruction in case this matter is moved, or precise answer required touching these bruits of war or peace, or in case the Emperor invade and this King demand aid (as he says he has done before, according to the treaties); for a month will show how the game shall go. Yesternight arrived secretary Monlu, from M. de Rodes, ambassador at Rome, with advice to beware of the Bishop of Rome, and give no credit to Monte Pulciano; whereupon they have to-day kept great council, and the bruit of war is as hot as ever. The prince of Melphi leaves to-morrow for Provence, whereby "I have a mayme;" and La Plance is returned in haste to Cleves. Mons. Morret and others are sent to Lorraine to view the lanzknechts. Has just received a letter from a person of good credit that 25,000 Almains come to serve this King, besides Swiss, Italians, and Frenchmen. The bruit of war is among the best and greatest personages, and Paget is grieved that they say, "Weh! que sait il faire le Roy d'Engleterre." Has much ado to come by news; for, now that Henry is no longer taken as the friend from whom they hoped for help in their war, the writer has lost credit; and since the King came to Jaynvile no man comes to him, and some send word that they may not. St. Urbayns, 20 June, 11 p.m. (fn. 10) Signed.
Pp. 10. Add. Sealed. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
Caius College, MS. 597, p. 121. 2. Letter-book copy of the preceding in the hand of Paget's clerk.
Pp. 9.
20 June.
Poli Epp., III. 58.
419. Cardinal Pole to Cardinal Contarini.
All here, especially the Marchioness, (fn. 11) thank God for sustaining Contarini in the midst of his overwhelming business, and granting him charity, which in that holy affair of Modena shines the more as we know the troubles which, but for the grace of God, might well chill it. M. Aloisio will write further. Viterbo, 20 June 1542.
Italian.

Footnotes

  • 1. Henry Palmer, bailey of Guisnes. Doubtless, the other was Captain Thomas Palmer, mentioned in No. 393.
  • 2. Diana of Poitiers, the Dauphin's mistress, was the widow of Louis de Brz, Count de Maulevrier, grand seneschal of Normandy.
  • 3. The hour omitted in 2.
  • 4. In the campaign of 1523.
  • 5. Bthune and Aire.
  • 6. Sir Thomas Seymour and Charles Howard.
  • 7. Sir Thos. Seymour?
  • 8. Lord Lisle?
  • 9. De Chateauneuf.
  • 10. The hour is omitted in 2.
  • 11. Of Pescara.