Henry VIII: July 1542, 6-10

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: July 1542, 6-10', 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/pp273-286 [accessed 14 October 2024].

'Henry VIII: July 1542, 6-10', 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 October 14, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol17/pp273-286.

"Henry VIII: July 1542, 6-10". Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 17, 1542. Ed. James Gairdner, R H Brodie(London, 1900), , British History Online. Web. 14 October 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol17/pp273-286.

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July 1542, 6-10

6 July.
R. O.
462. J. De Nouvelle to Wallop.
Bearer says you desire news of Luxemburg. I know none except that King Francis has been long encamped at the place called Pond a Mouchon. Luxemburg is well provided for by the Queen of Hungary. The Emperor is at Pampelunne, by Navarre, with a great army; and, on the side of Italy, the Marquis of Pisquaire has with him 10,000 good lanceknights and many Spaniards and Italians. Tournehem, 6 July 1542.
P.S.I beg to share your news. By hearsay I learn that there is war against the duke of Cleves. Signed.
French, p. 1. Add. : at Guisnes.
7 July.
Dasent's A.P.C., 16.
463. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 7 July. Present : Sussex, Hertford, Russell, Durham, Winchester, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Dacres. Business :Passport for Jasper Palle, Portuguese, into Scotland. Sir Hugh Whitford, parson of Whitford, Flintsh., committed to the Fleet on 23 Feb., dismissed.
7 July.
R. O.
464. Wallop to the Council.
On Saturday, 1 July, at 10 a.m., passed by the King's forest, towards Fiennes, five waggons laden with little barrels, like gunpowder barrels, and one with a short barrel like a puncheon, conducted by Mons. de Vervin, with 120 of Du Bies's horse. Wallop's horsemen, that daily keep watch upon Fiennes hill for the workmen in the chalk pits, followed them Arde wards within the forest, till they came to Bucholt, where 100 footmen of Arde met them. Returning then to the chalk pits, Wallop's men saw 72 horsemen of Arde riding within the Forest, to whom they went. Two of the Frenchmen came out and said, "Dieu garde, Messiers, Dieu garde, Nos penceums que vous fuistis de nos gens." Being answered, "Your company is gone on the other side of the Forest, and by this time they be at Arde," they cut over the hill and followed the others. Thinks they came by the chalk pits to see what fashion our men would use; who, being warned, kept still their works, and the Frenchmen, passing at a good trot, said, "Adieu, Adieu." They overtook Du Bies's band, and, with the footmen, took the conduct of the waggons, and Du Bies's band turned back. In coming into the Forest they rode three in a rank through the fairest piece of wheat on this side, at which is great bruit. On the 4th inst. Du Bies passed through the Forest from Arde with 60 horse, not armed. In passing he saluted the labourers very gently, and bade one of the clerks give his commendations to Wallop and offer his services. He said the like to two of Wallop's horsemen, who were keeping the scout upon the hill, who had previously warned Wallop of his coming, and had made the labourers stand within their strengths with their weapons by them, it being an ill place for horsemen to enter. He passed without doing any damage to the corn, as the others might have done had they had so discreet a captain, "which captain is the Countie Rousse, one of the wildest heads in all the realm of France, who shall depart shortly from Arde with his band." In his place is come Mons. de Torsy, who was lieutenant there last year, and is now called governor of the county of Guisnes.
In riding towards Boulogne, Du Bies said he did not expect war this year, because the Emperor had enterprised things which he could not bring to pass. As he was speaking, a horseman overtook him with letters declaring that war was proclaimed in Flanders between the Emperor and the duke of Cleves and his part-takers, as the French king, duke of Saxon and other. Thereupon, he said that if the news were true he should within 24 hours have word from the King his master. This news was sent out of the Burgundians' side, and Wallop's spy learnt it from one of Du Bies's archers, who said that, after passing the chalk pits, Du Bies said he was sorry to see the Englishmen stand in array as if they mistrusted him, and thereupon fell in a choler with certain horsemen of Arde, being there, for the damage they did when they came to meet Mons. de Vervin, and blamed Vervin for not appointing them to meet him on the other side of the Forest towards Fiennes. And he swore that he would punish any who should so traverse any corn in the English pale. An espial who came from Arde, 5 July, says the Conte Rowse departed and Mons. de Torsy arrived the same day, and that now there are 50 men of arms, where before were 40. The garrison is no longer to change quarterly, and Torsy remains governor for life, with five captains of 300 pietons under him, whose men will only come in in case of siege. Wrote lately that Vandosme was at Amyas, and Du Bies and other captains repairing to him there. Sent an espial with orders to go no further than Mustrull if he heard that Vandosme had left Amyas and Du Bies returned to Boulogne. He found Du Bies at Mustrull, returning, but, hearing that Vandosme remained at Amyas, went thither, and learnt that Vandosme awaited news from the French king, and intended going to Dorlaunce and along the frontier to his house at La Feir. The espial could not learn the cause of the assembly at Amyas, where the chief bruits were that war was proclaimed between the Emperor and the duke of Cleves, and that the French king was upon the borders of Loren, with his army, near a town called Mese. The espial heard of no assembly of men of war, save that captains were warned to be ready.
Sent this day to the captain of Tournehen to know if any such proclamation of war was made. Encloses his reply. (fn. 1)
The works here are marvellous well advanced. Describes their present state and the difficulty of making the foundations, owing to the springs of water. Praises the diligence of Mr. Surveyor and of Mr. Palmer and Mr. Vaghen, the King's captains here, who, with their petty captains and standard bearers, have been continually overseeing the works. Mr. Vaughan and Mr. Awdeley were out early and late in all weathers all this winter past. If the workmen between Calais and Saint Peturs had been as well overlooked, their work would be more advanced; but they have no overseers but clerks, whom they little regard. Yesterday Mr. Rous, treasurer here, saw that they had 35 men casting water out of the river, and but 40 labouring in the river, whereas, with so many casting water, 500 might have laboured. It was otherwise when Mr. Wingfield had the oversight there. Describes the dikes or rivers which Mr. Wingfield has since been occupied in making between Balingham river and Buttakes house, which are in such state that if he cut through into Balingham river, much of the water in the "plasshe" of Arde would be drawn away, "which will not a little bash them of Arde." Has stayed his doing so until the King's pleasure be known; and meanwhile he is at work on "the river that goeth to Perkins Bruge besides Holett."
Sends Guisnes pursuivant to learn the King's pleasure in this, and inform them further of the prisoner that lies at Dunkirk for stealing the King's silver dishes. Desires also to know what to answer if Du Bies offers to send the Englishman he has in prison, detected of heresy. (fn. 2) Guysnes, 7 July. Signed.
Pp. 7. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
8 July.
Dasent's A.P.C., 17.
465. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 8 July. Present : Sussex, Hertford, Russell, Durham, Winchester, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Dacres. Business :Sir Ric. ap Howell, committed to the Fleet by the lord Chancellor, 18 June, dismissed upon recognisance (cited) to appear. Recognisance (cited) of Maurice Dennys, of London, to abide the order of the Chancellor of Augmentations in a contention with Mr. Hennege about a marsh which belonged to St. Thomas's hospital.
[*** Next date is 13 July.]
8 July.
R. O.
466. The Heirs of Edward Griffith.
Award given by Lord Chancellor Audeley and Sir Wm. Poulett lord St. John, master of the Court of Wards and Liveries, arbitrators in the dispute between John Pulleston, of Carnarvon (in the name of Jane, Kath. and Ellen, daughters and heirs general of Edw. Gruff, dec., late of Penryn, co. Carnarvon, now in the King's ward, and of Jane late wife of the said Edward) and Rice Gruffith, of Penryn (claiming as brother and heir male of the said Edward), the parties having submitted the matter to arbitration by recognisances, dated 3 Feb. 33 Hen. VIII. Assigning to the said Rice lands named to the yearly value of 103l. 5s. 11d. for ever, lands named to the yearly value of 33l. 7s. 8d. to the said late wife for life, and the rest of the property to the daughters. Dated 8 July 34 Hen. VIII.
Large Parchment. Copy.
8 July.
Add. MS., 6,362. No. 4. B.M.
467. Garrison Of Hull.
Warrant, addressed to Michael Stanhope, lieutenant of the retinue of Hull, for the payment of the wages of James Woode, whom the King appoints surgeon to the said retinue with 20l. a year from the feast of the Annunciation of Our Lady last past. Hampton Court, 8 July 34 Hen. VIII. Signed and sealed. Countersigned : P. Meautys.
P. 1.
[8 July.]
Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 20.
468. Chapuys to Granvelle.
Nothing important has happened since he wrote on the 30 June. One of his reasons for writing so much in favour of complying with this King's wishes was that he had to show him and the deputies all his despatches, having promised to do so when they refused to send any one to Spain and threatened to break off the negociations. Would have promised anything then that they might send an ambassador, as they have since done. (fn. 3) One cause of their strong desire for an offensive league against France is evidently the conviction that in case of a warespecially on pretext of the French king's adhesion to the Turkthe people will readily acquit the King of the payment of his late loan, amounting to upwards of a million of gold. Another reason for their insisting on the invasion next year is not to have to wait for payment of the last instalment of the loan before beginning. The French ambassador's cousin, who was sent to Francis to testify his master's activity, and ask for his cong, returned from France three days ago. Our friend has not been able yet to learn anything about his mission except that Francis is rather suspicious of this King's wonderful activity in fitting out warships, and has commanded the ambassador to make close inquiry. Has no doubt that even after all the articles of this treaty of closer alliance have been passed, some difficulty will remain about the King's title of head of the Church of England.
On Sunday last, as the King was returning from mass, the earl of Desmond and three other Irish lords or gentlemen took leave of him very humbly, for all the while the King or their interpreter spoke they were on their knees. Does not know yet what present the King made them.
Must mention before concluding that during discussion of certain articles of the treaty, the deputies suggested that in case of an offensive war against France, it would be agreeable to the King if the Emperor made over to him his claims on the towns of the Somme, viz, Amiens, Abbeville, Corbie, Bray and La Crotoy, and he would give up his on Guienne and Gascony, which adjoin the kingdom of Spain, and would be easy to keep. There has also been a proposal of marriage between the Prince of Piedmont and this King's second daughter, to which Chapuys sees no objection if the bulk of the treaty should pass, as it would set the King more strongly against the French.
From a holograph in the Vienna Archives, endorsed, in a modern hand, with the date, 8 July 1542.
8 July.
Kaulek, 430. (Almost the whole.)
469. Marillac to Francis I.
This is to confirm what he wrote on the 2nd touching the Emperor's ambassador's practice and the equipping of the ships which were made ready to be sent out of this river, to ride about the Downs, as was said then, or at Porchemeut as now the chief mariners aver (adding that no great personage will embark as chief, nor more men than are necessary for the working of the ships). Will send a man to get information on the spot. As to the ambassador, after giving out that he would stay 18 or 20 days longer in Court, he next day returned secretly to his lodging, showing a visage of more satisfaction than perhaps he felt; for if the practices are not broken there is at least nothing concluded, and the end is very doubtful. As to war, things seem much cooled; at least the execution cannot be so soon as was said a month ago, for as yet there is no news of levying men. If in 15 or 20 days there is no further show [of it] than now one may almost count on the English not moving for this year.
Received, the day before yesterday, letters from Scotland, from the bp. of Haberdyn, who was last ambassador here, mentioning that the gentlemen (fn. 4) who are gone thither on this King's part meet often with the King of Scotland's deputies to settle the dispute about the boundary of he two realms, where of late years there have been troubles; and adding that the Queen, his mistress, was grosse, as Francis will have heard otherwise.
In this town are made processions, which are said to be general throughout the realm, both for the prosperity of the King and his church, and to incite the people to pray God to preserve the army which the Emperor sends against the infidels [and] bring back victorious all who have gone to the expedition of Hungary.
French. Headed : 8 July. Marked as sent by Roger du Prat.
8 July.
R. O. Kaulek, 431. (Abstract.)
470. Francis I.
Instruction (fn. 5) given to Messire Claude de l'Aubespine, the King's secretary, sent to the King of England.
To communicate to Marillac his whole charge, and with him obtain audience, present his letters of credence, and say that he is sent for three causes, viz., (1) to visit the King of England and report his news, (2) to announce that the King of Sweden has sent his chancellor and his wife's brother to seek the alliance with Francis, who has made with him a treaty which the King of Denmark and duke of Prussia have joined, and the King of Scotland will join, and in which honorable place is left for the King of England to enter if he will, (3) and to show that Francis was obliged to make war on the Emperor, who, besides refusing to make the promised reparation for the murder of Cesar Fregosa and Rincon, had continued to slay servants of Francis going to divers places on their master's affairs. Lygny, 8 July 1542. Countersigned : Bochetel.
French. Modern transcript, pp. 4.
8 July.
Royal MS. 18 B. VI., 139b. B. M.
471. James V. to Paul III.
Yesterday, died Wm. Gibson, dean of the college of Restalrig, of the King's patronage. Presents his servant John Sincler, licentiate of laws, whom he highly commends, to the deanery. Edinburgh, 8 id. Julias 1542.
Lat. Copy, p. 1.
8 July.
Ib. 140.
472. James V. to Cardinal Carpi.
Desires him to forward the above suit. Edinburgh, 8 id. Julias 1542.
Lat. Copy, p. 1.
8 July.
Ib. 139. B. M.
473. James V. to Cardinal Carpi.
Has already written to him for Georgius Marcellus to have the chancery of Aberdeen; but, for the sake of the Roman See, desires him to persuade Wm. Meldrum, who first sought it, to transfer to Marcellus all right he has received from the Pope. Edinburgh, 8 July 1542.
Lat. Copy, pp. 2.
8 July.
Royal MS., 18 B. VI., 138. B. M. Epp. Reg. Sc., II. 140.
474. James V. to the Consuls and Senate Of Stralesund.
Balthazar Daniel has presented their letters, written the day before Palm Sunday, showing that, failing to obtain justice in the case of Henningus Musk (whose ship was taken by Frenchmen and sold in Aberdeen), they have obtained letters of reprisal from the princes of Stettin, dukes of Pomerania. Gives the Scottish version of the matter, and trusts they will do nothing unfriendly. Edinburgh, 8 July 1542.
Lat. Copy, pp. 2.
8 July.
Ib. 140. B. M. Epp. Reg. Sc., II. 143.
475. James V. to George, Duke Of Stettin, &C.
Upon the above matter. Edinburgh, 8 July 1542.
Lat. Copy, pp. 2.
8 July.
Ib. 139. B. M.
476. James V. to Christian, King Of Denmark.
In favour of Balthazar Daniel, the bearer, who has lived so long in Stralesund that it is not generally known that he is a Scot. Edinburgh, 8 July 1542.
Lat. Copy, p. 1.
8 July.
Poli Epp., III., 58.
477. Cardinal Pole to Cardinal Contarini.
M. Geronimo Marocio, cousin of our M. Marco Antonio (who says that the affairs of his abbey have only been saved from ruin by the diligence of his said cousin) has an important lawsuit in the Rota of Bologna. M. Marco Antonio is glad of an occasion to show his gratitude to his cousin, and has asked me to recommend him to you; as I do heartily, for M. Marco Antonio is very dear to me. Viterbo, 8 July 1542.
Italian.
9 July.
Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 21.
478. Chapuys to Charles V.
Has nothing to add to what he wrote on 30 June, except that this day, after dinner, he again called on the King to introduce him to the bearer, (fn. 6) who was to present his respects in the name of the Queen of Hungary and inquire if he had any message in answer to the letter of the King of the Romans, which arrived two days ago, asking for aid against the Turk. The King was gratified at the compliment paid to him by the Queen, and also at the great preparations made in Flanders to protect the country against the French, and, if necessary, to invade. The same intelligence, he said, had reached him from several quarters. He knew that Vendome and De Biez were on the alert and, though they had not yet assembled their full strength, had many thousands on the rolls, who could be mustered in 24 hours, and both those generals had informed one of their captains at Calais that war had already been proclaimed by sound of trumpet in Flanders against the Dukes of Cleves and Holsteina fact which Chapuys told him was highly improbable.
The King at first evaded giving any answer about assistance against the Turk, passing from one topic to another. At last Chapuys told him plainly he must not complain of not having been invited, as other princes had beenviz., the King of France and the Duke of Cleves,to unite in a crusade; for if the States of the Empire had sent, as he affirmed, a mission to King Francis, it was certainly not to secure his assistance against the Turk, with whom they knew him to be in league, but to warn him to forbear from any undertaking against the Emperor while they themselves undertook to repulse the Infidel. The Duke of Cleves had been called on, like other vassals of the Empire, to contribute money and men. Neither case was similar to his. No doubt the King of the Romans might have informed him sooner of the deliberations of the Diet of Spires, but he had been occupied visiting the Tyrol, Bohemia, Moravia &c., and moreover trusted to the promise made by the English ambassadors (fn. 7) at Regensburg, that if the other princes did their duty Henry would not be the last to arm against the Turk. The King could not be ignorant of the resolution taken at the Diet of Spires, which was approved by every prince attending it, except Francis, and that even if the Pope had not sent the men he promised he would not fail to send either them or an equivalent in money. The differences between the duke of Brunswick and the Landgrave would not prevent the expedition taking place, and the Emperor would soon find means to adjust them. Even if it were too late in the year to send a force it was not too late to remit money. And it was no use Henry alleging difficulties of procuring bills on Germany &c. Henry said he had been told there was money enough in Germany for the enterprise, but that he would think about it.
Forgot to say that one of the arguments brought forward by the King in support of his refusal, was that the Turk would not come down in person, but on Chapuys telling him how important it was to drive him out of Hungary altogether, and stop his advance on Germany, as the aid voted by the Empire is to last three years, he only replied, half in joke, that he thought there would no longer be a question of the Turk, for the Pope would conclude peace between the Emperor and Franco; and the Turk, at the intercession of his good ally, who has again (he understands) sent or promised to send him 24 galleys, would retire from Hungary and make perpetual truce with Christendom. Replied that if there were no other danger he could easily advance some money on condition of its being repaid in case events turned out as he described. After these and other remarks, told the King he had not yet received an answer from the Queen of Hungary to Count du Roelux's overtures, but heard that she had written to the Emperor about them, and was expecting an answer from Spain. The King seemed much pleased, and said that if the project did not take effect this year the opportunity would be lost. London, 9 July 1542.
From the Vienna Archives.
9 July.
R. O. St. P., IX. 75.
479. Paget to Henry VIII.
Going to see the fashion of this Court, found the Admiral had been sick of an ague two days, and was in bed. Dined with the Cardinal Belley, with whom also dined the Cardinal of Scotland; and at table was much commended the amity shown in England to this King. "But," quoth Card. Belley in Paget's ear, "il faut continuer." "So we do," replied Paget in his ear, "and yet you be not worthy to have so good a friend, that so sinisterly and suddenly suspect your friend without cause;" and went on, aloud, to talk of the magnificence of Henry's houses of Hampton Court, Windsor, &c. Describes conversation apart, after dinner, with Card. Belley, in which the latter expressed surprise that England should now succour the Imperials; and Paget replied expressing surprise that they should suspect such a friend as Henry had proved himself to be. In excuse the Cardinal laid the fault on the common voice, saying it were alms to whip them that talk so, but the devil could not stop them, even in the King's Council, saying there would be war and England would aid the Emperor; but if so they would send the Scots, Danes and Swedes to eat up all the Englishmen in four days. Paget said Englishmen were not easy morsels to swallow, the Scots knew it and the Danes and Swedes were wise fellows and knew that those who came into England could not depart without licence. They then discoursed generally, about this last treaty of marriage, until the Admiral sent his secretary to call Paget.
Found the Admiral in bed. Details long conversation, in which, after mutual compliments, the Admiral said nothing was talked of but war, and that their best friend had left them; he called Henry their best friend, and would always continue to love him next to his own master, although it was often cast in his teeth, and he thought Paget well affected towards them. Paget replied, expressing grief at these false bruits, which arose of the ambassador's (fn. 8) going into Flanders, and described the course of the dispute with Flanders about the edicts, saying that, when Henry refused to send another envoy to the lady Regent, the ambassador offered to go, and had procured the abrogation of the edict in Flanders, and perhaps Henry might now be induced to abrogate his; but as for league or marriage there was no conclusion, whatever the ambassador might have offered. The Admiral answered that he never believed but that England would be their friend and ally perpetual, and never heard the contrary in France or England, but from Spain and Flanders, where he had men for the nonce to see the world; where the Regent bruited that a cross marriage was concluded, viz., the Emperor to marry one of Henry's daughters and a son of King Ferdinand another, and receive a duchy (of Richmond or the like) in England, that Mons. de Rees goes to Calais to receive money, giving Bourburgh, Gravelin and Dunkerke in gage, and that Mons. Boyssus, the Grand Esquire, goes to England, and that one of Henry's captains at Calais told the Emperor's ambassador that he could take Arde in 14 days. Paget said these were marvellous news, and asked for one token either of war or of more amity with the Emperor; adding that frontier captains were like fish of the sea, "for as th'one desireth nothing but water so th'other desireth nothing but war." The Admiral said that much was made of the ambassador, but Paget answered that it was the English fashion, and the ambassador was lodged in the Court because Hampton Court, as he knew, was two miles from any town; besides, he thought, the French doubted no treaty with the Emperor, being at a point with him to have Milan and Flanders and what they would (he wished the Admiral more honor in this than he (fn. 9) had who treated it last), and sure of it since the Bishop of Rome, who deceives no man, was the great worker in it. The Admiral said Henry might assure them of Milan if he would, but for himself he would not believe till he saw, and the Emperor's promises were not to be trusted, as would shortly be seen. His master trusted no man but his good brother and perpetual ally, and would embrace any device to increase their amity and extend it to posterity. Bayard then came from the French King and Paget took leave.
Begs pardon if he said more about the edicts than was prescribed to him; and explains that he must often use "good words" in conversation with the Admiral, but in material points he will say nothing to compromise Henry.
A Scottish man, James Melvile, (fn. 10) has been with him. He seems learned, and was entertained in England by the late lord Crumwell. He dare not tarry in Scotland, but would fain dwell in England. He is gone now from Rowen to Rome, where he says he dwells, and knows Pole and his companions. Describes conversation with him, in which he offered to send regular news from Rome (where he is reader to two cardinals), through a kinsman, "a true evangelic and a good Christian man," in the French king's guard. Thinking perhaps to entrap some of those caitiffs at Rome, Paget accepted his offer, and received "bynames" for Pole and his fellows, and a direction for his letters (to his brother), which are sent herewith, but assigned him to send his letters to Lyons, to an English merchant at Bonvyse's, who sometimes sends Paget news of France and Italy. Trusts he has not offended, and asks whether to continue this practice with Melvile.
The opinion here of direct war with England is diminished, but that of the lending money to the Emperor, and joining with him in straiter amity will not out of their heads; and, considering their old fashion to pick quarrels and give the first buffet when they see advantages, Paget must suspect them
.
This King is come back, from the way of Lyons, to Ligny; leaving the Queen at Genvile. His company is very small, only the Dolphin, Admiral, Chancellor, and two or three Cardinals; and the Dolphin is hourly expected to follow his train towards Languedoc. Mons. de Guise went on Monday to St. Menehow, on the Marne, followed yesterday by Mons. d'Orleauns. These two shall do the feat on Luxembourg, and the Franche Countie, having 2,000 horse besides 2,000 that come from Cleves, and of foot 12,000 legioners, 3,000 adventurers, and 16,000 Almains, of whom 6,000 are come and the rest are coming with the horse from Cleves, under Mons. de Longevale and the Marshal of Cleves, if the Prince of Orange and Mons. de Bure, who are in Luxembourg, will let them pass. As the Frenchmen counted these Almains innumerable and the Imperials counted them none, Paget sent into Lorraine to enquire; and learns that Count Bekelyn of Strozburgh is 4 leagues hence with 2,000, and the baron of Hadeck (who has been here) 2 leagues from Nancy with 4,000, being part of Count Guillaum's band, who, on his way hither, visiting his mother at a castle on this side the Rhine, was recognised, and is so watched by Imperials that he dare not issue out. De Longevale and the Marshal have but 1,000 horse and 5,000 foot. There come daily by stealth into Lorraine parties of 10 or 12, but without weapons; and some with wives and children, intending not to return to Almain. Three cartloads of pikes have been sent them, and at St. Menehow are hackbushes and other artillery, and also 10,000 of their Frenchmen and all their horsemen. This King will depart after the Dolphin, when he hears that this army is in order.
In Piedmont they will only defend, and the passages are stopped for the Italians, who were expected; who are found dead here and there, "by five and six in a company, no man knoweth how. They impute it to the Marquis de Guasto, but he dedieth it." Their great enterprise will be done by the Dolphin upon Spain, for which Montpesac has levied 20,000 in Gascoyn and Languedoc; and Brysac and the duke Destampes (leaving Danebault and Langey in Piedmont) will bring the rest, 12,000, to Perpignan. The enterprise is delayed by tarrying for Barbarossa's navy, which is to join the French galleys at Marseilles, and go to Barcelona. Chevalier Daus (of whom Paget wrote before) is escaped, with his two galleys, to conduct them. They provide 100,000 kyntals of biscuit in Languedoc and Provence, and really look for 60 galleys from Barbarossa. This King has at Marseilles 15 galleys, 2 galeasses, 3 galleons and one other ship, the prior of Cape 6 galleys, and Chevalier Daus 2 galleys. The King has 3,000 horse in the county of Avignon, fearing that the Bishop of Rome would admit the Spaniards.
The Emperor's ambassador practises with Madame Destampes for peace. The King says he intends no war, but makes provision as the Emperor does so. A courier of the Emperor's, with letters from the Franche Countie to Spain, was taken in Dolphinie at Valence with the French King's arms upon his shoulder. The King says the Emperor's ambassador shall have the letters, "but the courier shall first have his process made." The ambassador and the King talked on Thursday after their old fashion, with sour looks. Great watch is kept since the King came, for fear of certain light horsemen in the Franche Countie. We begin to look for Pulciano, but despair of good at his hands. The ambassadors of Sweden have concluded the same amity (to be friend and enemy and provide mutual aid of ships) as the Danes did. They brought the Queen of Sweden's brother in love with a gentlewoman (fn. 11) of this Court, and he went 14 days past to Sweden for his master's leave to treat for marriage. The Chancellor of Sweden and the other shall be despatched to-morrow.
Letters from Venice state that Piers Strozza, captain of Maran, has burnt towns of King Ferdinand. Six foists of the Imperials entered the Gulf of Venice to attack Maran, but the Venetians expelled them. Guasto appointed certain gentlemen in Venice to slay Piers Strozza, who, however, set upon them first. An earthquake between Bononie and Florence has destroyed many towns, churches and people. The fair palace of the Medices and eight other castles about Florence are destroyed. At Buda 4,000 Turks, who issued out of the town and attacked the camp, are slain.
Mons. Dade is returned rebus infectis, for we will not join with Portugal except the Emperor render Milan. Proclamation was lately made in Paris that no man do any hurt to any Almains or call them heretics. Seven Italians were made cardinals on 3 June. Their names (if Henry will waste time in reading them) are Messer Marcello Crescentio, il vescovo de Modena, il castellano de Santo Agnelo, Messer Pomponio Cecio, Messer Roberto Puccio, Don Gregorio Cortesio del Ordine di Santo Benedetto, and il maestro del Sacro Pallacio del Ordine di Santo Dominico. The others whom the Emperor, French King and Ferdinand wrote for, and the nuncios with the Emperor and French King, "his holy fatherhood (forsooth) keepeth in scrinio pectoris" till Lammas, when he thinks to see how the game will go, and bestow his red hats to suit his purpose. Intended not to despatch this till Pulciano's return ("if he return"), but will rather send an extra post than seem negligent. Ligny, 9 July. Signed.
Pp. 17, partly in cipher. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
Caius College, MS. 597, p. 131. 2. Letter book copy of the preceding, with the passage in cipher deciphered.
In the hand of Paget's clerk, pp. 12.
R. O. 3. The substance of Paget's letter of 9 July.
Pp. 6. Endd. : Abstracts out of Mr. Paget's [letter] of the ixth of July ao xxxiiijo.
R. O. 4. Contemporary decipher of the portion in cipher in 1.
Pp. 10.
9 July.
Kaulek, 431. (Abstract.)
480. Francis I. to Marillac.
Sends to the King of England M. de l'Aubespine, (fn. 12) one of his secretaries, who will show Marillac the object of his mission, and act in concert with him. Countersigned : Bochetel.
French. Headed : Ligny, 9 July.
9 July.
Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 22.
481. Brion to Marillac.
Has received his last letter, and read that which he has written to the King, which last has given great satisfaction. The kind words and offers of Henry to Marillac give Brion hope that the rumors afloat are false. The English ambassador here has held similar language to Brion. Ligny, 9 July 1542.
P.S.The King is sending his secretary, Claude de Laubespine, with instructions which Marillac will peruse.
From the Vienna Archives.

Haverkamp's Sylloge Altera, 361. Cheke's De Pronunciatione (ed. 1555), 218.
482. Cheke to Gardiner.
The letter sent by his Vice-chancellor's son makes it easier for Cheke to answer him. Protests that he has been deferential to Gardiner's authority as bishop and chancellor, adding "Quid enim amplius me facere voluisti? Literis tuis sum publice accusatus : moderate tuli. Scripsisti edictum : ut debui, obtemperavi. Dedisti ad me literas : diligenter respondi. Interdum lapsus es : occupationibus tuis concessi." Defends himself from the charge of arrogance, and argues at great length upon the expediency of introducing the corrected pronunciation. Shows that his opponents at Cambridge are not learned, and foreign scholars favor a reform of pronunciation, as Smith, (fn. 13) who made much progress abroad in civil law, can testify. Fears that the Bishop has been swayed by the sole opinion of Robert Radcliff. Thinks that when the Mahometan Turks are reported so to cultivate the Arabic and Punic tongue that all Eastern nations are fired by their industry, we ought to spend some labour upon the Christian tongues, Greek and Latin. Begs him to remit the severity of his edict.
Lat.
10 July.
Haverkamp, 319. Cheke de P., 163.
483. Gardiner to Cheke.
Has read the treatise (libellum) received from him at Westminster, and finds in it a copious flow of words and evidence of much reading and diligence, but a want of judgment and erudition. Would have been glad to have passed over his arrogancea quality Cheke does not show in other matters; but it is a pest and labes ingeniorum. Replies at great length to his arguments, taking note of his references to Smith and Radcliff. Ends with a warning to be careful. Hampton Court, 10 July.
Lat.
10 July.
Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 24.
484. Chapuys to Mary Of Hungary.
On Wednesday, the 7th, (fn. 14) George arrived, and, after perusing the letters he brought from the Queen and Ferdinand, Chapuys sent to Hampton Court for an audience, which was at once granted, but was put off till yesterday, Sunday, as the King was much engaged, and was going to return to town on Saturday. He was wonderfully pleased with the Queen's complimentary letter and George's visit and his going to Spain. He was also pleased with her vigilance in unravelling the enemy's designs. As to the aid against the Turks, after Chapuys had urged the arguments in the instructions of the King of the Romans, with other arguments, he alleged various excuses, as that he had not been invited like other princes. It was no use, he said, urging that his ambassadors (fn. 15) had made promises for him at the diet of Regensburg that if other princes did their duty in that matter so would he, for not every one of the German princes had promised to contribute, and even the Pope had not sent a man. Besides, if the Grand Turk did not come in person no more help was needed; and, further, it was too late, for before men or money arrived, the affair would be decided one way or the other. Replied, pertinently enough, as he believes, to each of the King's arguments, and after keeping silence for a time, he said he would consult his Council about it. Finally, for a bonne bouche, told the King that George was the bearer of the Queen's letter to the Emperor on De Roeux's proposal. London, 10 July 1542.
P.S.Forgot to mention that he believes the English will be satisfied if the revocation of the edict on navigation in the Low Countries be proclaimed exactly in the manner set forth in her letters of the 1st without further ceremony. Has not spoken about it lest he should give them occasion to think what they have not done hitherto.
From the Vienna Archives.
10 July.
R. O. St. P., IX. 85.
485. Paget to Henry VIII.
Being lodged inconveniently far (4 miles) from Court, sent, this morning, his furrier and his lacquey to provide a lodging at Ligny, where his lacquey, being assaulted and almost wounded to death by the furrier of Signor Horatio, the bp. of Rome's nephew, before he could draw his weapon, bickered with the furrier, and slew him. On learning this, repaired to the Admiral, who promised favour. The Admiral said that, yesterday, they despatched a secretary, called Loobyny (L'Aubespine) to their ambassador. Paget said he was sorry he had not known it; but, in order that he should know nothing, his lodging was always provided with the furthest from the Court. The Admiral said he was sorry; he had sent everywhere to seek him (though in fact he saw the King's servant Hammes and Paget's clerk, whom he knows well, half a dozen times yesterday); but, he added, it was no matter of importance.
"'I pray you what is it', quod I, 'if I may know it.' 'Mary,' quod he 'the King my master, being displeasant of these bruits and noises that have run in every place, was, I assure you, right glad when I told him that which you told me this other day, and for that cause hath written a letter with his own hand to his good brother the King, your master, declaring his affection towards him and the rejoisance he doth conceive of th'amity he perceiveth his brother beareth unto him; requiring him so to continue as his good brother and perpetual ally. And, whereas, his love towards his good brother is such that he hath always been minded to communicate unto him his great affairs, as to his good brother and perpetual ally, so at this present, forasmuch as th'Emperor doth not only keep from him his lands and possessions (which injury he could peradventure have borne), but also hath outraged him in killing his ambassadors and other messengers contrary to all honor and law, he hath thought convenient to signify unto his good brother that, seeing the redress thereof cannot be had between princes but by the sword, he is determined to take his advantage and to pursue the revenge upon some of th'Emperor's countries.'" Paget replied that he was sorry he had not heard of this despatch; for he would have written. Trusts his servant may yet reach the King before the Ambassador's access.
This day the Dolphin departed for Lyons, where Brysack and Anebault will meet him with as many of the bands of Piedmont as can be spared. De Longevale and his band are stayed. "The Turk's galleys towards Marselis be discovered, and word brought thereof unto the Court" They bring money from the Turk. Ligny, 10 July, 7 p.m. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
Caius College.
MS. 597, p. 143.
2. Letter-book copy of the preceding, in the hand of Paget's clerk.
Pp. 2.
10 July. 486. The War.
Declaration of war by Francis I. against the Emperor. See No. 669 (3).
10 July.
Leonard, II. 422.
487. France and Sweden.
League offensive and defensive between Francis I. of France and Gustavus I. of Sweden concluded by deputies (named) at Ragny, 1 July 1542. If either party make war the other shall, on demand, provide him with men up to 6,000, and ships to transport them; or, if either party be invaded, 25,000 men and 50 ships. The allies of each party to be included, viz., of France, the kings of Denmark and Scotland and dukes of Prussia, Gelders and Cleves (room is to be left for the King of England to join, provided that, within six months, he announces by letter his intention to do so); and of Sweden, the kings of Denmark and Scotland and the dukes (sic) of Gelders and Cleves. If the king of Scotland, making war with anyone, seeks aid of the king of Sweden, that king shall provide him with 6,000 men, and ships to transport them; and, conversely, Scotland shall aid Sweden.
ii. Commission of Francis I. to his deputies, Chancellor Poyet and the Admiral, for the above. Joinville, 18 June 1542.
iii. Commission of Gustavus to his deputies, Conrad Phy. chancellor, Steno Erichson, the Queen's brother, Canut Anderson and George Norman. Ex arce nostra Stokholmensi, Anno Domini 1542, in die Conversionis Pauli, ab initio regiminis nostri anno 16.
Latin.
Ib. 2. Additional article granting permission to Gustavus to export salt from France. Ragny, 10 July 1542.
Latin.
10 July.
R. O. St. P., IX. 87.
488. Sir Thomas Seymour to Henry VIII.
On the 7th inst., the army being encamped on the other side of the Danube, half of them came over the river by the town and castle, where the King, Queen, lords and ladies stood eight or nine hours to see them pass. Next day the other half came over in like manner. On the 9th, passed 4,000 Etalyanes of the Bp. of Rome's, to embark in the boats, which number about 300, and go before to the King's town called Pest, 5 miles of this country from Bewda. The army marches, towards Pest, two country miles a day, so that they reckon to be there in 10 days, there to await the coming of 10,000 Almenes and 12,000 Boyemes, which were to have been with them ere this. The marquis of Branborow, the lieutenant, will not venture his men till they come. Eight score waggons have gone with the army, each carrying a boat, described. The battery pieces, 36 double cannons, remain here; so that, apparently, the King does not intend to besiege Buda, for he cannot have many such pieces at Pest, having lost all at the last siege of Buda. Proclamation is made for all Frenchmen to avoid the camp. Never nation was "worse beloved in a camp than they be here."
To-morrow the King departs for Norenberge to meet the Council of the Empire, and establish that next year every prince shall have his men here by the 1st of May. He has sat in council every day since my coming, and his servants say he directs all the army as if they were in his own wages, but I have not yet heard what the other side say thereunto. He will be in the camp within five weeks. Veyana, 10 July.
Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.

Footnotes

  • 1. See No. 462.
  • 2. Denis Tod. See Nos. 427, 431.
  • 3. The bp. of Westminster had just been sent.
  • 4. Lord Lisle and Southwell?
  • 5. Another set of instructions brought by him will be found in No. 517.
  • 6. George.
  • 7. Gardiner and Knyvett.
  • 8. Chapuys.
  • 9. Montmorency.
  • 10. Melvely in 4.
  • 11. Mademoiselle de Rieux. See No. 554.
  • 12. For his instructions see No. 470.
  • 13. Thomas Smith, afterwards Secretary of State.
  • 14. So in the Spanish Calendar; but Wednesday was the 5th, not the 7th.
  • 15. Gardiner and Knyvett.